Sodapop's POV

Ponyboy was really happy and excited that night before going to sleep, which never happened before. Usually, he'd be doing something quiet like coloring or working on a puzzle, or he'd be cuddled up next to either me, Darry, or both of us. Tonight, however, he was jumping up and down on the sofa, giggling and hugging us.

He had just come out of the bath and was wearing a white t shirt with baggy, flannel pajama pants. They were mine once, but I grew out of them and let Ponyboy have them. I think he likes them because they have my scent on them.

It wasn't until a few minutes ago when I realized that he was still holding onto his dream catcher. Ever since he found it this morning, it hadn't left Pony's sight. As he worked on his puzzle, the dream catcher was next to him. During lunch and dinner, it was on the table next to his plate. He's a got a real liking to that dream catcher.

Finally, after jumping on the couch, Pony sat back down with a slight bounce. Darry pulled his into a tight hug and kissed his face all over. I joined the hug and kissed his face all over as well.

"You ready for bed, Pones?" Darry asked him as he cuddled Ponyboy close. Pony shrugged and climbed out of Darry's arms. He sat at the coffee table and started drawing in his sketchbook. Looking over, I realized he was drawing his dream catcher. I smiled and Darry and I let him draw for a few minutes.

Darry rubbed Ponyboy's back and I stroked his hair as he drew. Once he finished, I scooped him up and held him close. "Alright Pony, it's time to sleep now. It's getting late." Darry ruffled Pony's hair. Pony yawned and nodded as we placed him in bed. He was still holding the dream catcher in his hands.

I took the dream catcher from him and hung it over his bed. Pony whined and tried reaching for it, but Darry rubbed his back. "That's where it's supposed to be, Little Colt." Darry explained softly. "It's gonna make sure you don't get no nightmares, ya dig honey? You can hold it in the morning." He nodded and laid down. We said goodnight to Pony and kissed his forehead again, then I went to my room and collapsed onto my own bed, falling asleep fast.

--

A loud noise suddenly filled the house and caused me to jolt awake. After trying to figure out what woke me, I realized that it was Ponyboy crying. I knew right away that his dream catcher didn't work that night.

Running into his room, I saw that Darry had already beat me there. He had Ponyboy in his arms, rocking and soothing him. Pony was bawling and holding onto Darry for dear life. I couldn't help but glare at my brothers. Ever since Ponyboy became mute, he's gravitated to Darry more than me. Before, I don't think he even liked Darry. I feel like chopped liver some days.

I was convinced that Pony likes Darry better than me. Well, if that was case, then I guess Pony don't need me to comfort me no more. I angrily left the room and slammed the door. I heard Darry say to Pony, "It's alright honey. Dream catcher don't usually work the first night."

As I laid down in my bad, all I could hear were Pony's cries, and I started to regret leaving him and Darry. But I was angry, and most importantly, tired. After tossing and turning for a few minutes and trying to find a comfortable position, I finally fell asleep

A/N: Sorry I haven't updated in a while, I've been busy with school and all. But I hope enjoyed the chapter. Stay gold!

~ TJ