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I was actually very worried and fearful. I realized what I was doing as soon as the words slipped out of my mouth. I hoped, just a little, that I didn't speak but I had. I didn't go through all this trouble just to give up. Half my brain was thinking that. The other half was screaming at me to run while I could. I could still run. I knew I could. I didn't. That is what made me shocked.

I walked silently besides Dally, afraid to speak. I focused on my surroundings, trying to relieve myself from my thoughts. The sun was fairly close to the horizon, an hour or so before the sun would set. I hoped we would still be walking by that time. I wanted to catch a mere glimpse at it, at least. At most, I wanted to stare at it until it set. Although, nothing would ever be as beautiful as the sunset in the country. I silently vowed to go back there. I could bring Sodapop and maybe, just maybe, Dally would also come.

I nearly tripped over a crack in the sidewalk but Dally caught me before I hit the floor, grabbing my shirt. His dark eyes looked mine straight. It was like black hole you could not get out of. I almost marveled it. "If you break your head before we get there, I swear I'll just leave you here and won't look back, savvy?"

I nodded, abashed. Was Dallas really that cold-hearted? The way he kept walking gave me the answer. Yes, he was. Would I be able to break through that wall? I tried not to feel that hopelessness I was feeling but it was nearly impossible.

We walked for a few more blocks when I finally built up the courage to ask a question. "Where are we going?"

At first, I thought Dally didn't hear me because he didn't answer me directly after. His head cocked slightly as if he were thoughtful while we strolled. I didn't even consider asking the question again, dismayed by his last threats. "We're going to Dingo's to meet up with some girls."

Girls. I chewed on my nails. The only girl I actually talked to was Cherry Valance and I don't think she even counts because she's a Soc. However, if all girls were like that, I'd think I'd like that but I knew that wasn't true. I've grown in the last few weeks. I started to gain some of the weight I have lost and my build was starting to show again. Don't ask me how but I have also been getting taller in the short of period of time. I didn't think I was attractive as Soda or anything but no one was ever as attractive as him.

We were almost to Dingo's as were walking in between stores. I saw the sunset. I paused. The red, the mist, the gold… stay gold. Stay innocent. It was impossible. No one could, only if you die young. I preferred not to.

Dally started pulling me by the ear to follow him. Dally had a hard, firm grasp. I figured I would try not to bother him for the rest of the night, that much.

We entered Dingo's. It wasn't a full bar but the inside sure as hell looked like one. There were multiple fights going on, a few were cheering them on and others, who were already used to the fights were flirting with the girls and taking shots. There was a mess everywhere. No wonder Darry didn't let me go here. I wouldn't be surprised if someone stabbed me on the spots.

I followed Dallas in and took a deep breath as we went forward to meet girls.

Golly, I need a cigarette.