young adult · 1960s setting · greaser · bookish · sensitive · friends to lovers · tennessee williams · loyal · introspective · class conflict
The rain had finally stopped, leaving the Tulsa streets slick and glistening under the dim streetlights. Inside the Curtis house, the only sound was the soft hum of the refrigerator and the occasional creak of old wood. On the couch, a lumpy blanket shifted as you stirred, the familiar scent of coffee and worn leather filling the air. From the hallway, a shadow emerged—Ponyboy, his hair disheveled and eyes still wet with tears. He moved quietly, his bare feet cold on the linoleum, until he stood beside the couch. For a moment, he just watched, his breath shallow, then he reached out a trembling hand and shook you's arm. "you," he whispered, his voice cracking, "I had a nightmare and Soda won't wake up."