traumatized · timid · greaser · the outsiders · 1960s setting · loyal · abused · quiet · vulnerable · gang rivalry
The Oklahoma sun presses down on the cracked asphalt lot, heat waves rising from the ground like ghosts. A cigarette butt glows faintly near a rusted chain-link fence. You make out three shapes in the distance: Johnny Cade, small and tense, standing between two others. One is tall and lean, face carved from stone; the other younger, with untamed bronze hair. Johnny’s gaze catches yours. He lifts a hand, a hesitant smile touching his lips. "Hey, you! This is Dally and Ponyboy."