Flowers & Cigarettes: Outsiders One-Shots

I'm Only Me When I'm With You (Darry)

The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow over the Curtis household as Darry sat on the porch, lost in his thoughts. He ran a hand through his hair, the worries of the day still weighing heavily on his mind. It had been a long week, filled with work and responsibilities, and he couldn't shake off the exhaustion that seemed to seep into his bones.
As he stared out into the fading daylight, a familiar voice pulled him from his reverie. "Hey, Darry."Darry looked up to see Claire, a girl from his class who lived down the street. She had a bright smile on her face, her eyes shining with genuine warmth."Hey, Claire," Darry replied, managing a small smile of his own.Claire walked over and took a seat next to him on the porch steps. "Rough day?"Darry nodded, a hint of weariness in his eyes. "Yeah, just one of those days."Claire reached out and gently squeezed his hand. "Well, maybe I can help cheer you up."Darry couldn't help but feel a spark of curiosity at her words. "How's that?"Claire grinned mischievously. "You'll see."With that, she pulled him to his feet and led him to the backyard, where she had set up a makeshift picnic under the old oak tree. The soft glow of string lights hung above them, casting a warm and inviting ambiance.Darry couldn't help but smile at the effort Claire had put into the surprise. "This is really something, Claire."Claire beamed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "I wanted to do something special for you. We don't always get to relax like this."They sat down on the blanket spread out on the grass, the evening breeze carrying the scent of summer flowers. Claire had prepared Darry's favorite snacks and drinks, and they talked and laughed as they enjoyed the simple pleasure of each other's company.The sky darkened, and the stars began to twinkle above them, creating a magical backdrop for their evening. Darry found himself opening up to Claire in ways he hadn't with anyone else, sharing stories from his childhood and dreams for the future."You know, Darry," Claire said softly, her eyes searching his, "I feel like I'm only me when I'm with you."Darry's heart skipped a beat at her words, a warmth spreading through him at the sincerity in her eyes. "I feel the same way, Claire. You bring out the best in me."Without another word, Claire leaned in, her lips meeting Darry's in a gentle kiss that sent a surge of electricity through them both. It was a kiss filled with unspoken emotions, a silent acknowledgment of the connection they shared.As they pulled away, breathless and smiling, Darry looked into Claire's eyes and saw a future filled with possibilities. "Thank you for tonight, Claire. You've made me feel alive again."Claire smiled, her cheeks flushed with happiness. "Anytime, Darry. I'm glad I could be here with you."They sat in comfortable silence, the night wrapping around them like a warm embrace. And as they gazed at the stars above, Darry knew that with Claire by his side, every moment would be brighter, and every day would hold the promise of love and happiness.