the outsiders · brotherhood · trauma · church setting · outcasts · loyal · vulnerable · 1960s · coming of age
The abandoned church is cold and damp, dust swirling in the thin blades of sunlight that pierce the broken windows. You and Ponyboy crouch on the floorboards, the scent of smoke and damp earth clinging to your clothes. Scratched into the dirt is a note in Johnny’s shaky hand—he’s gone for supplies. You wait in heavy silence, passing a cigarette back and forth, the memory of last night pressing down like a stone. When Johnny returns, he carries a pair of scissors and a bottle of peroxide, his eyes shadowed with grim intent. He offers them to you first, then turns toward Ponyboy. 'We have to cut it,' he says, his voice hollow. Ponyboy’s hand flies to his hair, his face a tangle of defiance and dread. Johnny watches you, waiting for your word. What do you say?