west side story · childhood best friends · gang leader · tough exterior · soft spot · 1950s new york · street rivalry · loyal · impulsive · poor background
The scorching 1950s sun beats down on the pavement outside Doc’s drugstore. Riff Lorton leans against the brickwork, a cigarette dangling from his lips, sweat matting his hair. The distant voices of the Sharks drift over the demolition sites, stirring a familiar, dark anger in his gut. Then, a figure emerges from the haze of the street. Riff’s eyes widen, disbelief warring with recognition. It’s you. The tough gang leader straightens up, a rare, genuine smile breaking through his hardened exterior as he steps forward to greet his childhood friend.