A/n: *Laughs hysterically* Calm down you guys! Jee-ma-nee! Lol. I had no
idea that the last chapter would get such an up rise. But you know what?
I'm glad it did. It gives me this chance to try and clear up a few things
for you all. I fully admit that it might seem like Darry is a bit OOCish. I
know that. I recognize how people would be upset by that. And of course he
overreacted. Wouldn't you? I'm here to tell you that I've seen first hand
some major overreacting concerning things just as serious, if not more
serious, than this. Believe me, this is nothing new to me. I would really
like to know if anyone reading this has never encountered someone who
overreacted and acted out of character. Anyway? Of course you have! Did you
not wonder what the heck had gotten into them? And did they not later
apologize and see the error of their ways? Okay, maybe not all of them, but
people do that sometimes.... Need I say more?
Well, what I am proud of is that I got my first flames for this and that lets me see where people are coming from. What would be better is if some people wouldn't jump to conclusions and not overreact themselves. I do appreciate the kindness of the criticism, though. Thanks.
I'm going to steal an idea from Tensleep and I'm going to do the review responses at the bottom. That way you don't have to find the start of this chapter. If you wanna read what I had to say back to you though, go and find it first! It might help to make you more at ease or help you to understand this a little more.
And for anyone who is worried over Darry and his "OOC"-ness, this chapter is for you. He doesn't make an appearance, but it'll hopefully help to clear up your own thoughts and put you more at ease ;) I hope you're okay with a chapter that has more reflection in the beginning than any thing. There is some dialog, quite a bit as you go along, though. Don't worry.
Disclaimer: Quick note for the chapter – I don't own the brilliant words of Dr. Seuss (when Pony talks about the "waiting place").
Dedication: I like the idea of dedicating a chapter to someone every time I update. So this one goes out to The King who took me to Prom and got rip- roarin' drunk with me. Love ya, Stud!
Chapter Three
Over the next few days things began to change. Though I knew I shouldn't have felt bad or feel like I was doing something wrong, I did, even though there wasn't anything I could do to change it. I couldn't turn back time and go inside her mind to read her thoughts. It would be nice if I could, but since that wasn't an option I felt strangely hopeless. The look etched on her face when she left was burned into my memory and I got a pang of guilt when I pictured it. My stomach was in constant agony, fighting with my mind over whether I was right or wrong for what I did. Like Soda told me, "There's nothing you could've done... She's the one who brought it down on you... Just wait it out and see what happens."
He didn't second guess me. He knew I wouldn't lie to him. I needed that kind of support right then because I wasn't getting it from everyone that should've been wanting me to have it. I'd be lying if I said that what Darry did didn't hurt my feelings. I couldn't grasp his reasoning behind it all. Maybe he just wasn't ready for this. None of us were. But when he saw that I still wouldn't give into the lie, even to her, he started to realize. As the hours ticked on that night, reasoning started to dawn on him. In the meantime I stayed out of his way. I skipped out on dinner that night and took refuge in my room. Homework helped to take my mind off it for awhile. But I soon found myself on the back porch smoking one cigarette after another. It was the only thing that kept me somewhat calmed down. I even forgot all about track for a while. It wasn't until about midnight that Darry hunted me down and got up the nerve to admit that he had been very wrong. He made sure to let me know he was still confused, but he knew that I wasn't lying – that he knew I knew it wasn't worth it. I didn't say much back to him. I was still in too much of a solemn mood and he was a bit embarrassed I'd say. But, after that talk a weight was lifted from me.
Two-Bit helped to lighten my mood considerably. I can always count on him to make things seem better than they are. He found out what happened, blinked a couple of times, then proceeded to tell me about his day. It was as simple as that. He took my mind off of it for a few hours and when I was left to think on my own again , somehow it didn't seem so bad. Of course things weren't great – they wouldn't be for a while, but because he wouldn't let me think about it, I was put even more at ease.
I wish I could stay Steve was just as good. Well, actually he didn't hurt any, but he sure didn't help. Soda must've told him because I didn't. He knew, however it was that he found out, and he sure let me know it. He might not have said a word about it, but his looks said it all. Fortunately for me, I've learned how to not care what he thinks. Naturally he's grown nicer to me as time has gone on, but he never respected me, I don't think. And I'm not sure that he ever will. My sole ambition to make something out of myself just about did it in for him. He didn't want to always be miserable, but he wasn't working for anything better. He was waiting for the perfect opportunity to come along and I wasn't all that sure it was going to happen if he refused to leave his waiting place. He didn't grasp my sense of motivation. To him I was a Soc in a greaser world, a poser. Now the sly smirks he gives me I know are because I'm now stuck. In his mind's eye – I've sunk to Libby's level. Rock bottom.
"Hey, Ponyboy!" Two-Bit walked in the house, slamming the front door.
"You know, if you knock another pane out, Darry's going to make you pay for it." I scooted over on the couch to make space for him. And just as I expected, he jumped over the back and landed comfortably. It was his new thing to do.
"I ain't gonna do that again." He rolled his eyes and made to change the channel on the TV. "So, what's up with the big times?"
"Nothing new."
"Nothing? Pony, something is always new with you," he said incredulously and I grinned. If he said so... "I hear that, uh, Angela is looking for you."
"Angela? What for?" The last thing I needed was to get myself mixed in with a Shepard again. Hardly any good came out of it. Especially with her. She's bound to get someone in trouble some day.
"Not sure. Just heard it from Steve. I thought you'd know."
Truth is, I hadn't gone to school for a couple of days now. Haven't even left the house. So, there wasn't any way I would know she was looking for me. I wasn't sure it was the smartest move, to go to school, until this all blew over. The last thing either of us needed was to get mocked – and I would avoid anymore confrontation if I could help it. So, I put on my best sickly act and Darry thought I had some form of the flu. It wouldn't last much longer, though, and I was getting more and more ready to face it. I'd be going to school tomorrow and I'll just have to see what happens. Besides, I can't afford to miss anymore school – not if I planned on having a life outside of homework for another week.
"Nope," I told him. "Haven't got a clue. You know if she's mad or something? 'Cause I ain't done nothing to her." I wasn't sure what to think about girls and their intentions at this point. None of them.
"Nah, but if there's trouble, we'll back you up." It was said so simply and out of routine... I had to crack a grin anyway. Being part of our gang had it's perks, but being the youngest had even more. I really dug the fact that no matter the problem or how angry we were at one another, we were all always willing to lay it out on the line and brawl it out with the offender or offendee or their gang/brother's gang, as was this case.
"I know."
"Hey," – he decided to switch the subject rather spontaneously – "where's Sodapop?"
"Uh, I don't know. He's off work though. Probably cruising The Ribbon with Steve." I hadn't seen him all day. When I woke up he was gone and he hadn't come home yet. It didn't surprise me though. His shift ended an hour ago. I wouldn't start to wonder for another few hours... But now that he brought it up and got me thinking on it... "Why? You wanna go look for him?"
"Nah, if you've still got that flu –"
"No, not anymore. I woke up feeling all right," I lied. I woke up feeling like shit, but that had nothing to do with my health. I wanted to get out of the house anyway. Two and a half days of confinement was way too much.
"You sure? Darry won't care?"
"I'll leave him a note." I stood up. Man, I just needed to get out for a while and relax before I'm faced with a work packed weekend. Who wanted to sit around our house anyway? Not me. Not when the action is elsewhere.
"All right, but if he's upset it's your neck." He was trying to act like it didn't matter much to him if we went or not, but I knew him too well to take him seriously. He wanted to go hangout as much as I did and I didn't scoff. He was my ride after all.
I quickly jot a note to Darry and put it on the counter. He'd be okay with it, and even if he weren't he wouldn't say much on it. He was too concerned with my feelings right now. Maybe it was wrong to take advantage of it, but shoot, when did that ever stop anyone?
Pretty soon we were parked outside of Milo's – a record store. Milo, the store owner, dug Elvis more than anyone I knew. I mean, to the point that he was nerdy. But for that reason he was the most popular music shop owner around here. Greasers found that fact about him very appealing, especially since he had met the King twice and had their pictures together hanging up behind the counter. Both times he had managed several autographed records. He kept one for himself and he auctioned off the others to put towards his own radio station. It worked. Greasers often found themselves down there at least once a week and we listened to his station nearly every day. It was new and it played mostly Elvis tunes, so we didn't listen to it constantly, but it was cool. It was sweet to go down there in the evenings when he was broadcasting live from his shop. It was like you were part of the action.
"Do you want to go in? Or should we just walk around?" Two-Bit asked.
I peered over people's heads into the windows to see what was going on in there. I could barely make out who was who, it was so packed, but I managed to see that one of the girls standing near the poster area was Angela.
"Let's go in for a minute. Angela's in there. I wanna see what she wants."
"Okay." He shrugged and we fought our way through the crowd to get to the door.
Once inside we were bombarded with people we knew. Everyone wanted to say hi and asked where I had been hiding out the last few days. I lied to them too, they didn't need to know the truth. They accepted it, knowing that it must've been "bad" if Darry let me stay home and then they let it go. A few of them informed me that Angela was searching for me and I told him that that was why I was there in the first place. Besides talking to me, Two-Bit was getting quite the greeting himself. He was popular among the guys in school. Everyone knew Two-Bit. He was just one of those guys. Of course he had been out of school for two years now, but somehow he managed to be one of the most well-known greasers around our parts. Anyone said his name and people knew exactly who he was, what gang he belonged to, and just how cool he really was. I left him behind to talk while I went ahead to go talk to Angela.
"Hey!" I called over the music and loud talk. "Angela!"
She turned her head towards my voice, her black hair flowing over her shoulder. She stared into the crowd trying to find out who it was that called her name. Finally she spotted me when I reached her and she just gave me the worst look.
"What the hell do you want, Curtis?" she snapped and I was drawn back a little.
"What? I heard you were looking for me."
She raised her eyes to the heavens and laughed. "Oh yeah." She shook her head and looked me deep in the eyes. She didn't say anything else, just shook her head chuckled lightly as if I was some rather amusing idiotic thing she spotted and wished she hadn't. She rose her hand quickly and –
*SMACK!*
~*~
Hahahahaha. Don't hate me. I'm just a little thing over here! You could probably beat the shit of out me if you tried. But I got my own bodyguard around here somewhere who would protect me. Right *cough*snookums*cough*?
If you don't care about the review responses, please leave a review anyway. I'd be very pleased to hear from you. I could use a booster anyway. I've been having a roller coaster of a weekend. But luckily I have some friends on this site who have made it all that much better for me.
Review Responses!
taste of fire: Thanks a bunch! I love positive reviewers.
Kelsey~Lynn: Yeah, you and just about everyone else has had issues with this. At least you've given me some tippers. That I can say I love, lol. I think you got a little something messed up though. The book never said that Sandy was pregnant. That was never mentioned. In fact, absolutely no reason was given for why she left. Trust me, I've memorized the book – literallly. You can ask my co-writer. Lol. Sad, I know.
Cookie and Pickles: Wow! Pickles! You got Cookie to read? What a miracle! Jk. I just never really expected it to happen, but I'm really glad it did. It's about time my ex got in on the action. Geez, now maybe he'll realize where all my time is going, huh? Thanks for making him read, lol. Hi Cookie! How's it going for ya? That was a very sweet comment you made about Anee and me, but you know she gets her smarts from you. They both do. Oh, I know what you mean. Do you remember how our families reacted when they found out a junior? Dang... I mean, no wonder we eloped, right? Yeah, not the funnest of times... unless you count being piss drunk in Vegas. That was kinda fun... yeah, it was fun. Good times, eh? Well, thanks for finding out what it is that I do for a living and making my weekend so terrifically wonderful. I love you! Thanks for reading, Pumpkin!
Cloudburst2000: Hey girl. Thanks for the tips. I didn't know that little detail about DNA testing. I think I'm going to keep it just for this though, because you're the only one smart enough to have realized and...well, it may not be necessary for a change now. I doubt it'll ever get that far – not that I won't finish, but there are many twists and turns in store. And, just a tad mistake you made, the book takes place in the 60's not 50's. Well, Darry never said it would be a legal abortion, now did he? I'm amazed at how much you know on this issue. Shoot, maybe I'll have to come and talk to you to make sure I'm correct from now on, lol. Thanks for being supportive anyway!
JPSquire: Unfair to Darry? Not at all, hunny. Did you read my authors note? I don't feel like repeating myself, sorry. That took long enough to write. If you didn't read it, please do. Thanks for liking the story anyway. I'm glad that people can over look what may come across as a mistake and still enjoy the concept behind it.
Tens not in a mood to sign it: Ah, don't you love days when you just don't care to sign in? Thanks for liking the title! You are the only person who has said anything and so I'm afraid people either don't understand it or they just don't care. Shocked over Dar huh? Seems like everyone was. Lol, I didn't realize I'd get such a rise. I ought to count how many people have had a problem with that. Thanks for reading! I love you tons! You're the coolest.
Eclipsed: Haha. Yeah, curiosity is quite normal. (Tip in case you didn't catch on – Libby is a bit psycho, lol). Thanks for reading!
Two-BitGortez: Thanks! You're a sweetheart for reading.
Fyremoon: Lol, I had to look up the word inebriated because I had no clue what it meant. Nice word! I love it. Yeah, you'll just have to wait and see what the deal is with Pony and Libby. Listen to Pony's thoughts, he's a smart boy.
chloe99: Yes, Darry does love Pony, which is why he was so hurt and angry at the time. Read the author's note if you haven't already. It might be helpful. I can't stand Libby either. I can't believe I created such a bitch. Lol. I love it. Thanks for reading!
ShyXshortieXbabe: Hahaha, hey girl. How's it shakin'? Yeah, Libbs is an interesting character. You'll just have to wait and see what happens from now on. Pony is in for quite a ride now. He's going to be having a /I time with this burden.
pirategirl143: You can count on Soda being a part of this. They all will. This is a story about Pony and how him and the gang get around this obstacle of the psycho-girl. You nailed it. She's crazy. But you'll have to just wait and see how crazy she is. That's something you may just have to decide for yourself.
Rock:just like you..only bette: *Sigh* What a relief! I get to respond to someone who isn't wigging out over Darry. You know what? I wonder how many people actually really thought that he was crazy, or if they read other reviews and decided to throw that in also? Because I know that I've done that once or twice in the past, but it's kind of a low thing to do. I don't think people realize how it makes an author feel to know that every single friggin person just about has an issue. I'm still happy they're reading, but it's still frightening to look at reviews every time there is a new one. You know how it goes. Anyway, I'm just being extra sensitive today for obvious reasons but my loverboy, Cookie, sure has helped to pick me up ;)
DaNNi BaBezZz: Well now, it just a part of the story line to find out all the nitty-gritty details, isn't it? I love that I'm making you insane. I feel as though I have accomplished my job now.
Bandit-Gurl42: Angry at Darry? Seems as though a lot are. Thanks for reading and reviewing anyway. I love it when people have the guts to say what they really want to, you know? And I'm totally cool with you using the idea, but maybe you could add a disclaimer or an author's note in the next chapter just to let people know that your intentions weren't to make fun of it, please? I read it and I know that it wasn't, but I'm not sure everyone sees it in the same way. Thanks babe!
Skye Renegarde: I confused you? Good! I feel so proud right now. Thanks for being such a fun reviewer. You make me laugh, you really do. Rabbit lady, huh? Do tell me more! I can't just be left with a story not told! Lol. Later.
Oblivious Misconception: Thank you! You are the best! Only a couple of people agree with you that Darry was acting like they thought he may have. And that would be the correct way (what you are thinking) because that was my intentions behind it. I understand that people feel the way they do, but just wait to read this chapter and you'll feel more at ease with Darry's emotions. Thanks for the support! You'll have to wait for another chapter or so to see Soda's reactions, but it'll be well worth the wait.
Ale Was Here: Hey, Hun! Updating as I can get around to it. Hopefully this was quick enough for you. Don't be too mad at Darry. He's just being a loving older brother all though it might not seem like it so far.
griffins95: Yeah, I would definitely hate it too if one of my brothers didn't believe me right off the bat. It would suck. But that's life, right?
Hood: Yeah? You think Pony's comment was okay? Good. I was really worried about that. I mean, I am not one to go around calling people horrible names like that either, but I can and I do when it gets down to the line. See, the thing is, Darry DOES know Libby to an extent, just not like Pony does. Imagine one of your friend's siblings who knows you but not really. It's like that. Don't worry about Darry. He's going to be okay, if you know what I mean.
Aslan: You thought the comment was okay too! Goody! Yeah, Darry was a little crazy himself, but please don't jump to conclusions like he did. You might just find out how wrong you were... But yeah, I can see where you're coming from. I totally get it.
Sodapop02: Haha. Yes! It's intense? Thanks! I love that word – intense. Darry'll come around. Just you wait and see. He's a big sweetheart and he's...he's Darry. He always comes around.
sulfer101: Over the top? Nah, trust me, it wasn't. We can't go making that conclusion after we've seen Darry over the top before. Remember when he slapped Pony? If that wasn't over the top, I don't know what was. Yeah, he isn't thinking straight – you're right. So, just read and you'll see how he's doing now.
Anon: Um, I'm not sure whether or not to take you as a flamer or not. But considering every other story you've reviewed as Anon under has been, I'm taking it that you ARE and that you aren't willing to give this a chance. I hope I'm wrong, because that would mean that you aren't open minded. Pity, because that also means you don't understand the meaning of fan fiction. Really, that's quite sad. Maybe next time, if there is a next time, you'll be brave enough to leave me an email address or a REAL SN name. I don't bite. I promise.
These are for two reviews that I didn't get to respond to for the first chapter. You guys need to be more careful to see when there's a new chapter up! Lol. Don't worry, it's cool.
Jenna: Hope the second chapter wasn't too disappointing for you. All I can say is, is that I hope you're still reading! I'd love to get another review!
taste of fire: Thanks for reviewing this and the last chapter! You're great! Hope you like this one as well.
Well, what I am proud of is that I got my first flames for this and that lets me see where people are coming from. What would be better is if some people wouldn't jump to conclusions and not overreact themselves. I do appreciate the kindness of the criticism, though. Thanks.
I'm going to steal an idea from Tensleep and I'm going to do the review responses at the bottom. That way you don't have to find the start of this chapter. If you wanna read what I had to say back to you though, go and find it first! It might help to make you more at ease or help you to understand this a little more.
And for anyone who is worried over Darry and his "OOC"-ness, this chapter is for you. He doesn't make an appearance, but it'll hopefully help to clear up your own thoughts and put you more at ease ;) I hope you're okay with a chapter that has more reflection in the beginning than any thing. There is some dialog, quite a bit as you go along, though. Don't worry.
Disclaimer: Quick note for the chapter – I don't own the brilliant words of Dr. Seuss (when Pony talks about the "waiting place").
Dedication: I like the idea of dedicating a chapter to someone every time I update. So this one goes out to The King who took me to Prom and got rip- roarin' drunk with me. Love ya, Stud!
Chapter Three
Over the next few days things began to change. Though I knew I shouldn't have felt bad or feel like I was doing something wrong, I did, even though there wasn't anything I could do to change it. I couldn't turn back time and go inside her mind to read her thoughts. It would be nice if I could, but since that wasn't an option I felt strangely hopeless. The look etched on her face when she left was burned into my memory and I got a pang of guilt when I pictured it. My stomach was in constant agony, fighting with my mind over whether I was right or wrong for what I did. Like Soda told me, "There's nothing you could've done... She's the one who brought it down on you... Just wait it out and see what happens."
He didn't second guess me. He knew I wouldn't lie to him. I needed that kind of support right then because I wasn't getting it from everyone that should've been wanting me to have it. I'd be lying if I said that what Darry did didn't hurt my feelings. I couldn't grasp his reasoning behind it all. Maybe he just wasn't ready for this. None of us were. But when he saw that I still wouldn't give into the lie, even to her, he started to realize. As the hours ticked on that night, reasoning started to dawn on him. In the meantime I stayed out of his way. I skipped out on dinner that night and took refuge in my room. Homework helped to take my mind off it for awhile. But I soon found myself on the back porch smoking one cigarette after another. It was the only thing that kept me somewhat calmed down. I even forgot all about track for a while. It wasn't until about midnight that Darry hunted me down and got up the nerve to admit that he had been very wrong. He made sure to let me know he was still confused, but he knew that I wasn't lying – that he knew I knew it wasn't worth it. I didn't say much back to him. I was still in too much of a solemn mood and he was a bit embarrassed I'd say. But, after that talk a weight was lifted from me.
Two-Bit helped to lighten my mood considerably. I can always count on him to make things seem better than they are. He found out what happened, blinked a couple of times, then proceeded to tell me about his day. It was as simple as that. He took my mind off of it for a few hours and when I was left to think on my own again , somehow it didn't seem so bad. Of course things weren't great – they wouldn't be for a while, but because he wouldn't let me think about it, I was put even more at ease.
I wish I could stay Steve was just as good. Well, actually he didn't hurt any, but he sure didn't help. Soda must've told him because I didn't. He knew, however it was that he found out, and he sure let me know it. He might not have said a word about it, but his looks said it all. Fortunately for me, I've learned how to not care what he thinks. Naturally he's grown nicer to me as time has gone on, but he never respected me, I don't think. And I'm not sure that he ever will. My sole ambition to make something out of myself just about did it in for him. He didn't want to always be miserable, but he wasn't working for anything better. He was waiting for the perfect opportunity to come along and I wasn't all that sure it was going to happen if he refused to leave his waiting place. He didn't grasp my sense of motivation. To him I was a Soc in a greaser world, a poser. Now the sly smirks he gives me I know are because I'm now stuck. In his mind's eye – I've sunk to Libby's level. Rock bottom.
"Hey, Ponyboy!" Two-Bit walked in the house, slamming the front door.
"You know, if you knock another pane out, Darry's going to make you pay for it." I scooted over on the couch to make space for him. And just as I expected, he jumped over the back and landed comfortably. It was his new thing to do.
"I ain't gonna do that again." He rolled his eyes and made to change the channel on the TV. "So, what's up with the big times?"
"Nothing new."
"Nothing? Pony, something is always new with you," he said incredulously and I grinned. If he said so... "I hear that, uh, Angela is looking for you."
"Angela? What for?" The last thing I needed was to get myself mixed in with a Shepard again. Hardly any good came out of it. Especially with her. She's bound to get someone in trouble some day.
"Not sure. Just heard it from Steve. I thought you'd know."
Truth is, I hadn't gone to school for a couple of days now. Haven't even left the house. So, there wasn't any way I would know she was looking for me. I wasn't sure it was the smartest move, to go to school, until this all blew over. The last thing either of us needed was to get mocked – and I would avoid anymore confrontation if I could help it. So, I put on my best sickly act and Darry thought I had some form of the flu. It wouldn't last much longer, though, and I was getting more and more ready to face it. I'd be going to school tomorrow and I'll just have to see what happens. Besides, I can't afford to miss anymore school – not if I planned on having a life outside of homework for another week.
"Nope," I told him. "Haven't got a clue. You know if she's mad or something? 'Cause I ain't done nothing to her." I wasn't sure what to think about girls and their intentions at this point. None of them.
"Nah, but if there's trouble, we'll back you up." It was said so simply and out of routine... I had to crack a grin anyway. Being part of our gang had it's perks, but being the youngest had even more. I really dug the fact that no matter the problem or how angry we were at one another, we were all always willing to lay it out on the line and brawl it out with the offender or offendee or their gang/brother's gang, as was this case.
"I know."
"Hey," – he decided to switch the subject rather spontaneously – "where's Sodapop?"
"Uh, I don't know. He's off work though. Probably cruising The Ribbon with Steve." I hadn't seen him all day. When I woke up he was gone and he hadn't come home yet. It didn't surprise me though. His shift ended an hour ago. I wouldn't start to wonder for another few hours... But now that he brought it up and got me thinking on it... "Why? You wanna go look for him?"
"Nah, if you've still got that flu –"
"No, not anymore. I woke up feeling all right," I lied. I woke up feeling like shit, but that had nothing to do with my health. I wanted to get out of the house anyway. Two and a half days of confinement was way too much.
"You sure? Darry won't care?"
"I'll leave him a note." I stood up. Man, I just needed to get out for a while and relax before I'm faced with a work packed weekend. Who wanted to sit around our house anyway? Not me. Not when the action is elsewhere.
"All right, but if he's upset it's your neck." He was trying to act like it didn't matter much to him if we went or not, but I knew him too well to take him seriously. He wanted to go hangout as much as I did and I didn't scoff. He was my ride after all.
I quickly jot a note to Darry and put it on the counter. He'd be okay with it, and even if he weren't he wouldn't say much on it. He was too concerned with my feelings right now. Maybe it was wrong to take advantage of it, but shoot, when did that ever stop anyone?
Pretty soon we were parked outside of Milo's – a record store. Milo, the store owner, dug Elvis more than anyone I knew. I mean, to the point that he was nerdy. But for that reason he was the most popular music shop owner around here. Greasers found that fact about him very appealing, especially since he had met the King twice and had their pictures together hanging up behind the counter. Both times he had managed several autographed records. He kept one for himself and he auctioned off the others to put towards his own radio station. It worked. Greasers often found themselves down there at least once a week and we listened to his station nearly every day. It was new and it played mostly Elvis tunes, so we didn't listen to it constantly, but it was cool. It was sweet to go down there in the evenings when he was broadcasting live from his shop. It was like you were part of the action.
"Do you want to go in? Or should we just walk around?" Two-Bit asked.
I peered over people's heads into the windows to see what was going on in there. I could barely make out who was who, it was so packed, but I managed to see that one of the girls standing near the poster area was Angela.
"Let's go in for a minute. Angela's in there. I wanna see what she wants."
"Okay." He shrugged and we fought our way through the crowd to get to the door.
Once inside we were bombarded with people we knew. Everyone wanted to say hi and asked where I had been hiding out the last few days. I lied to them too, they didn't need to know the truth. They accepted it, knowing that it must've been "bad" if Darry let me stay home and then they let it go. A few of them informed me that Angela was searching for me and I told him that that was why I was there in the first place. Besides talking to me, Two-Bit was getting quite the greeting himself. He was popular among the guys in school. Everyone knew Two-Bit. He was just one of those guys. Of course he had been out of school for two years now, but somehow he managed to be one of the most well-known greasers around our parts. Anyone said his name and people knew exactly who he was, what gang he belonged to, and just how cool he really was. I left him behind to talk while I went ahead to go talk to Angela.
"Hey!" I called over the music and loud talk. "Angela!"
She turned her head towards my voice, her black hair flowing over her shoulder. She stared into the crowd trying to find out who it was that called her name. Finally she spotted me when I reached her and she just gave me the worst look.
"What the hell do you want, Curtis?" she snapped and I was drawn back a little.
"What? I heard you were looking for me."
She raised her eyes to the heavens and laughed. "Oh yeah." She shook her head and looked me deep in the eyes. She didn't say anything else, just shook her head chuckled lightly as if I was some rather amusing idiotic thing she spotted and wished she hadn't. She rose her hand quickly and –
*SMACK!*
~*~
Hahahahaha. Don't hate me. I'm just a little thing over here! You could probably beat the shit of out me if you tried. But I got my own bodyguard around here somewhere who would protect me. Right *cough*snookums*cough*?
If you don't care about the review responses, please leave a review anyway. I'd be very pleased to hear from you. I could use a booster anyway. I've been having a roller coaster of a weekend. But luckily I have some friends on this site who have made it all that much better for me.
Review Responses!
taste of fire: Thanks a bunch! I love positive reviewers.
Kelsey~Lynn: Yeah, you and just about everyone else has had issues with this. At least you've given me some tippers. That I can say I love, lol. I think you got a little something messed up though. The book never said that Sandy was pregnant. That was never mentioned. In fact, absolutely no reason was given for why she left. Trust me, I've memorized the book – literallly. You can ask my co-writer. Lol. Sad, I know.
Cookie and Pickles: Wow! Pickles! You got Cookie to read? What a miracle! Jk. I just never really expected it to happen, but I'm really glad it did. It's about time my ex got in on the action. Geez, now maybe he'll realize where all my time is going, huh? Thanks for making him read, lol. Hi Cookie! How's it going for ya? That was a very sweet comment you made about Anee and me, but you know she gets her smarts from you. They both do. Oh, I know what you mean. Do you remember how our families reacted when they found out a junior? Dang... I mean, no wonder we eloped, right? Yeah, not the funnest of times... unless you count being piss drunk in Vegas. That was kinda fun... yeah, it was fun. Good times, eh? Well, thanks for finding out what it is that I do for a living and making my weekend so terrifically wonderful. I love you! Thanks for reading, Pumpkin!
Cloudburst2000: Hey girl. Thanks for the tips. I didn't know that little detail about DNA testing. I think I'm going to keep it just for this though, because you're the only one smart enough to have realized and...well, it may not be necessary for a change now. I doubt it'll ever get that far – not that I won't finish, but there are many twists and turns in store. And, just a tad mistake you made, the book takes place in the 60's not 50's. Well, Darry never said it would be a legal abortion, now did he? I'm amazed at how much you know on this issue. Shoot, maybe I'll have to come and talk to you to make sure I'm correct from now on, lol. Thanks for being supportive anyway!
JPSquire: Unfair to Darry? Not at all, hunny. Did you read my authors note? I don't feel like repeating myself, sorry. That took long enough to write. If you didn't read it, please do. Thanks for liking the story anyway. I'm glad that people can over look what may come across as a mistake and still enjoy the concept behind it.
Tens not in a mood to sign it: Ah, don't you love days when you just don't care to sign in? Thanks for liking the title! You are the only person who has said anything and so I'm afraid people either don't understand it or they just don't care. Shocked over Dar huh? Seems like everyone was. Lol, I didn't realize I'd get such a rise. I ought to count how many people have had a problem with that. Thanks for reading! I love you tons! You're the coolest.
Eclipsed: Haha. Yeah, curiosity is quite normal. (Tip in case you didn't catch on – Libby is a bit psycho, lol). Thanks for reading!
Two-BitGortez: Thanks! You're a sweetheart for reading.
Fyremoon: Lol, I had to look up the word inebriated because I had no clue what it meant. Nice word! I love it. Yeah, you'll just have to wait and see what the deal is with Pony and Libby. Listen to Pony's thoughts, he's a smart boy.
chloe99: Yes, Darry does love Pony, which is why he was so hurt and angry at the time. Read the author's note if you haven't already. It might be helpful. I can't stand Libby either. I can't believe I created such a bitch. Lol. I love it. Thanks for reading!
ShyXshortieXbabe: Hahaha, hey girl. How's it shakin'? Yeah, Libbs is an interesting character. You'll just have to wait and see what happens from now on. Pony is in for quite a ride now. He's going to be having a /I time with this burden.
pirategirl143: You can count on Soda being a part of this. They all will. This is a story about Pony and how him and the gang get around this obstacle of the psycho-girl. You nailed it. She's crazy. But you'll have to just wait and see how crazy she is. That's something you may just have to decide for yourself.
Rock:just like you..only bette: *Sigh* What a relief! I get to respond to someone who isn't wigging out over Darry. You know what? I wonder how many people actually really thought that he was crazy, or if they read other reviews and decided to throw that in also? Because I know that I've done that once or twice in the past, but it's kind of a low thing to do. I don't think people realize how it makes an author feel to know that every single friggin person just about has an issue. I'm still happy they're reading, but it's still frightening to look at reviews every time there is a new one. You know how it goes. Anyway, I'm just being extra sensitive today for obvious reasons but my loverboy, Cookie, sure has helped to pick me up ;)
DaNNi BaBezZz: Well now, it just a part of the story line to find out all the nitty-gritty details, isn't it? I love that I'm making you insane. I feel as though I have accomplished my job now.
Bandit-Gurl42: Angry at Darry? Seems as though a lot are. Thanks for reading and reviewing anyway. I love it when people have the guts to say what they really want to, you know? And I'm totally cool with you using the idea, but maybe you could add a disclaimer or an author's note in the next chapter just to let people know that your intentions weren't to make fun of it, please? I read it and I know that it wasn't, but I'm not sure everyone sees it in the same way. Thanks babe!
Skye Renegarde: I confused you? Good! I feel so proud right now. Thanks for being such a fun reviewer. You make me laugh, you really do. Rabbit lady, huh? Do tell me more! I can't just be left with a story not told! Lol. Later.
Oblivious Misconception: Thank you! You are the best! Only a couple of people agree with you that Darry was acting like they thought he may have. And that would be the correct way (what you are thinking) because that was my intentions behind it. I understand that people feel the way they do, but just wait to read this chapter and you'll feel more at ease with Darry's emotions. Thanks for the support! You'll have to wait for another chapter or so to see Soda's reactions, but it'll be well worth the wait.
Ale Was Here: Hey, Hun! Updating as I can get around to it. Hopefully this was quick enough for you. Don't be too mad at Darry. He's just being a loving older brother all though it might not seem like it so far.
griffins95: Yeah, I would definitely hate it too if one of my brothers didn't believe me right off the bat. It would suck. But that's life, right?
Hood: Yeah? You think Pony's comment was okay? Good. I was really worried about that. I mean, I am not one to go around calling people horrible names like that either, but I can and I do when it gets down to the line. See, the thing is, Darry DOES know Libby to an extent, just not like Pony does. Imagine one of your friend's siblings who knows you but not really. It's like that. Don't worry about Darry. He's going to be okay, if you know what I mean.
Aslan: You thought the comment was okay too! Goody! Yeah, Darry was a little crazy himself, but please don't jump to conclusions like he did. You might just find out how wrong you were... But yeah, I can see where you're coming from. I totally get it.
Sodapop02: Haha. Yes! It's intense? Thanks! I love that word – intense. Darry'll come around. Just you wait and see. He's a big sweetheart and he's...he's Darry. He always comes around.
sulfer101: Over the top? Nah, trust me, it wasn't. We can't go making that conclusion after we've seen Darry over the top before. Remember when he slapped Pony? If that wasn't over the top, I don't know what was. Yeah, he isn't thinking straight – you're right. So, just read and you'll see how he's doing now.
Anon: Um, I'm not sure whether or not to take you as a flamer or not. But considering every other story you've reviewed as Anon under has been, I'm taking it that you ARE and that you aren't willing to give this a chance. I hope I'm wrong, because that would mean that you aren't open minded. Pity, because that also means you don't understand the meaning of fan fiction. Really, that's quite sad. Maybe next time, if there is a next time, you'll be brave enough to leave me an email address or a REAL SN name. I don't bite. I promise.
These are for two reviews that I didn't get to respond to for the first chapter. You guys need to be more careful to see when there's a new chapter up! Lol. Don't worry, it's cool.
Jenna: Hope the second chapter wasn't too disappointing for you. All I can say is, is that I hope you're still reading! I'd love to get another review!
taste of fire: Thanks for reviewing this and the last chapter! You're great! Hope you like this one as well.