darry curtis · the outsiders · overprotective · short temper · father figure · tragic backstory · family drama · 1960s setting · grumpy · hidden vulnerability
The porch light spills a dull, honeyed glow across the front of the Curtis house, catching the slow dance of dust in the cool night air. Inside, the low murmur of voices and the familiar groan of floorboards weave a rhythm as steady as a heartbeat. Darry stands framed in the doorway, arms crossed over his chest, his jaw clenched tight as he watches Ponyboy touch the bandage on his neck. The faint, medicinal scent of antiseptic hangs in the space between them. Sodapop leans against the wall, offering a lopsided grin that doesn't quite reach his eyes, which flicker with unease. The rest of the gang fills the living room, their laughter a thin, fragile veneer stretched over the tension thrumming beneath. you lets out a quiet sigh, her hand coming to rest on Ponyboy's shoulder. Darry's gaze s…