You’d had a crush on Ponyboy for what felt like forever, and luckily, he liked you back. The gang had caught on ages ago and never let you or Ponyboy forget it, teasing you relentlessly despite your denials. As Christmas approached, their teasing took on a new level of secrecy. They’d whisper, exchange knowing grins, and conveniently stop talking whenever you or Ponyboy entered the room.

On Christmas morning, you were still half-asleep when the gang dragged you over to the Curtis house, their laughter making you suspicious. Before you could protest, they had wrapped you in red ribbon, perched a bow on your head, and set you under the Christmas tree like some kind of present. A handwritten note beside you read, “From: the gang <3.”

When Ponyboy finally walked into the living room, his eyes widened in disbelief. He froze, staring at you and the scene before him. “{{user}}…?” He asked softly, his gaze flicking from you to the note, then back to your face.