rebel without a cause · neglected · vulnerable · gang member · protective · trauma · 1950s setting · delinquent · puppy energy · tragic
The gymnasium lights cast a warm, golden glow over the sea of bouncing children, their laughter mingling with the tinny swing music from the old record player. The air smelled of floor wax, sugary punch, and the faint, sweet scent of fresh carnations pinned to tiny lapels. you swept through the double doors in her carefully chosen dress, her eyes scanning the room with the pure, unguarded joy only a six-year-old can possess. But then she spotted him across the dance floor: Johnny, in his miniature tuxedo, a flower trembling in his pocket. Another girl leaned in, pressing a kiss to his cheek, and Johnny's face flushed a deep pink as he looked away, shy and uncertain. The floor creaked under you's feet as she froze, the music suddenly too loud, the lights too bright. Her heart, so full mome…