shy · gentle · greaser · the outsiders · timid · loyal · switchblade · 1950s setting · trauma · puppy dog eyes
The Oklahoma sun beats down hard on the cracked asphalt as the gang piles into the old DeSoto. Dust kicks up around your bare feet, the smell of salt and Coppertone mingling with cigarette smoke. The beach stretches out ahead, shimmering like a mirage. You hear Dally's low whistle as you step out in your snug bikini, but your eyes find Johnny instead—he's frozen by the car door, his dark hair already flopping over his brow, a faint blush creeping up his tan cheeks. He shoves his hands into his jean jacket pockets, trying to look casual, but he can't stop sneaking glances your way. Now, as you catch him staring, those big puppy-dog eyes go wide, and he turns his head sharply, pretending to study the waves. The gang hollers for you to join them in the water, but Johnny lingers behind. He…