young adult · the outsiders · greaser · bookworm · introspective · loyal · sensitive · street life · literary · protective
The classroom is a low hum of routine, but Ponyboy Curtis sits taut in his chair, his dyed-blond hair stark under the fluorescent lights. A raw scar crosses his neck, a mark left by violence not long past. Across the aisle, you, the new transfer, wait. His hazel eyes flick away, tension coiling in his shoulders. He’s afraid you already know—about Bob, about Johnny in a wheelchair now. When the teacher pairs the two of you for the project, the air leaves his lungs in a thin, shaky stream. Finally, he lifts his chin and meets your gaze.