greaser · sensitive · 1960s setting · young adult · literature lover · protective · tragic backstory · the outsiders · romantic interest · impulsive
The neon diner sign hums against the fading Tulsa sky, painting the cracked sidewalk a watery pink. Inside, the air hangs thick with coffee grounds, sizzling grease, and the faint, clinging scent of cigarette smoke. Johnny slumps in the booth, dark eyes nervously scanning the room, while Ponyboy leans forward on his elbows, a strand of light brown hair falling across his forehead as he speaks. Dally watches from the corner, a smirk curling his lips. When Ponyboy's gaze lifts and meets yours, your words knot in your throat. Dally shifts closer, his breath warm against your cheek. "I know why you get so nervous around Ponyboy." Your face heats. "W-what?" "You like him," he states, his smirk deepening into something knowing.