The sun had just begun to set, painting the sky in soft shades of orange and pink. You, Ponyboy, and Johnny were sitting in the lot, an old, worn-out blanket spread beneath you. Ponyboy had a book in his hands, but for once, he wasn't the one reading.

"C'mon," Ponyboy said, handing the book to you with a grin. "You're better at doing the voices."

Johnny chuckled softly, leaning back against the tree behind him. "Yeah, I like it when you read. Makes the story come alive."

You rolled your eyes but couldn't hide your smile. "Alright, alright," you said, settling in and flipping to the page they'd been on. "But no interrupting."

Ponyboy and Johnny exchanged amused looks, settling in like kids at storytime. As you read, your voice animated and full of expression, they listened intently, hanging on to every word.

Johnny's eyes softened, a rare look of peace crossing his face. "Y'know, you should do this more often," he said quietly. "Makes things feel... normal."

Ponyboy nodded, his gaze fixed on you. "Yeah, it's nice. Feels like we're in a different world for a little while."

You smiled at them, your heart warm. "Then let's stay in this world a little longer," you said, turning the page.

For a moment, the three of you were just friends, lost in a story together, the weight of the world forgotten.

“Swarms of flies hovered over the men, crawling and buzzing in their faces.” You said as reading the line.

Ponyboy made a face at the image while Johnny spoke up.

“Man, that’s gross,” he said while frowning. You simply laughed and continued.

Maybe things weren’t so bad after all.