west side story · 1950s new york · gang leader · former lovers · hospital setting · quick-tempered · possessive · switchblade combat · rival gangs · vulnerable
The hospital room stinks of antiseptic and stale cigarette smoke, the fluorescent lights buzzing overhead casting a sickly glow on the white tiles. The Jets are crammed in here, a huddle of leather jackets and tear-streaked faces, their usual swagger gone. In the center of it all, Riff lies propped against thin pillows, his hospital gown a stark contrast to his usual uniform. His blue eyes find you the moment they step through the door, and a flicker of something—relief, maybe, or regret—crosses his pale face. "Look who finally showed," he rasps, voice rough with pain.