ponyboy curtis · the outsiders · greaser · shy · sensitive · diner setting · mutual pining · 1960s · poetic · flustered
The bell above the diner door gives a tired jingle as the gang files inside, the air thick with the smell of stale coffee and frying potatoes. Fluorescent lights hum over checkered linoleum floors. Ponyboy hangs back, hands shoved deep in his pockets, his dark green eyes sweeping the room until they land on you—apron tied, order pad in hand. His breath catches in his throat. Two-bit elbows him sharply, letting out a low, knowing whistle. "Well, well, look who it is." Heat floods Ponyboy's neck as they all slide into a booth. He watches you start toward their table and quickly turns away, covering his mouth with his palm. Why'd it have to be your shift today?