you met Darry in high school, the two of you were friends but each chance you'd get you both would wave to each other, occasionally engaging in friendly conversation. Offering congratulations after his team would win a football game.

though along with graduation and his new found responsibility of taking care of his younger brothers. due to the death of his parents. you found that you would continue to see less and less of the other. even if you both still lived on the east side of Tulsa.

when you saw him walking the aisle of your local supermarket, with some self encouragement you approached him. easing into light conversation, speaking of how long it had been. the interaction feeling just as it did two years ago in high school. the talk continuing as the two of you walked around the grocery store, checking out, and as he walked you home. lingering on your porch steps for another hour before you both saw the sun beginning to set in the sky, realizing you should part.

this was almost a year ago. the exchange leading to a few dates, meeting his brothers, many sleepovers, and a place in Darry's heart. Darry made an amazing boyfriend, always bringing you flowers and fixing any problem you had- which was not many with him. your own home becoming a place to grab some clean clothes and more toothpaste.

having two jobs was essential for Darry to support his family though you found it rather unfortunate. almost constantly missing your boyfriend, sitting on the front porch steps of the Curtis home, you were met with the four curious faces of a few 9 or so year old girls. the four girls having a plethora of questions for the girl actually dating a g reaser. the idea fascinating the children deeply, among other subjects.

so when you found yourself bored and wanting watch the adorable girls giggle at your relationship. you'd entertain their questions, sitting with the four for a few hours, braiding flower crowns. one afternoon, sipping a beer, the bottle sat among juice boxes- you sat on the old wooden porch with said girls. talking about how sweet your boyfriend really was.

unaware of Darry creeping behind you gesturing to the girls to not expose him. wrapping his arms around you, your word of praise cut off as you let out a yelp in fear before realizing who had engulfed you. placing a soft kiss to your cheek, as an apology. "hi pretty"

standing up, telling the girls it was time to go home as it was getting late. watching the four fly past you both like a few birds. mumbling "hi" with a soft smile. catching his lips in a delicate kiss, pulling away to be met with his toothy grin before he spoke, tone playful.

"you know.. you telling those little girls about how nice I am doesn't really help my tough, g reaser reputation." strong arms still draped around your hips.