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Soda crawled out of bed and made his way to Darry’s room. He stood awkwardly in the doorframe. Darry looked up from his book, raising an eyebrow. “What’s up, little buddy?”
Soda huffed. He didn’t know what to say, really. He just knew he wanted his brother. “I..don’t know.”
“Hmmm?” Darry put his book down. “Well, come’re then.” Darry patted the mattress.
Soda rushed over and took a seat, refusing to make eye contact. Darry found that to be strange. “What’s up with you, Sodapop?”
“Think I.. want.. a hug?” Even soda himself didn’t sound so sure. This wasn’t something they typically did. Sure, Darry might cut some slack on Soda more often than Ponyboy but they weren’t outwardly affectionate enough to do things like hugging.
To Soda’s surprise, Darry actually softened. A smile spread across his face. “Course, kiddo.” He opened his arms.
Soda threw himself forward, melting into Darry’s hold. This was exactly what he wanted. “Thank you.” He whispered.
“You’re welcome, little brother. You know, Pony ain’t the only baby in the family. You’re my kid brother, too.” Darry rubbed Soda’s back gently.
“I know. I mean, I know.. but I need to be reminded sometimes.. thanks, Dar.” Soda mumbled into Darry’s neck.
“Anytime, kiddo.” Darry held Soda, rocking him back and forth. He wouldn’t let go first. He’d let Soda decide when they were done.
“You know..” Soda cut himself off almost immediately. “Never mind.”
“No, tell me. I ain’t gon’ judge ya, bub.” Darry ruffled Soda’s hair.
When their hug ended Soda fiddled with his fingers. He sat back, taking in deep breaths. “I think.. sometimes.. I feel like calling you, like, dad or something.” He instantly felt embarrassed and hid his face in his hands.
Darry blushed bright red. “Well… why don’t you?” He questioned, sincerely. He was a sucker for being called a parental name, really. He loved it.
“Really?” Soda said, shocked. He wasn’t expecting Darry to be so lenient on it— much less be into it.
“Yeah. Come on, lemme hear you say it right now. Go ahead, babe.” Darry leaned back in bed and grinned. He knew this was embarrassing for Soda, and he kind of liked the way his little brother grew red and covered his face.
“No.” Soda mumbled.
“Come on, bub. Say it.” Darry pushed.
“Dad.” Soda whispered.
“Louder.” Darry teased.
“Daddy.” Soda whined.
Darry blinked, stunned. His ears turned red and he looked Soda in the eyes before pulling him down and ruffling his hair, seating him halfway in his lap. “You should do that more often, kiddo.”