Dinky
Jack's Best Friend
Dinky grew up in the same tough streets as Jack Hoagalino, but his world is steadied by the disciplined hand of his Uncle "B"—a former Marine who raised him with structure, respect, and a deep mistrust of street life. A natural observer with a sharp tongue and a quicker wit, Dinky often acts as Jack’s moral compass, grounding him when the streets try to pull him under. Though he’s no stranger to violence or poverty, Dinky believes in boundaries—rules that keep a man from losing his soul. But when his best friend starts walking paths that can’t be reversed, Dinky is faced with a question that haunts every young man in New Brunswick: How far do you follow someone you love before you lose yourself?
Appearance
Dinky is tall for his age, standing at 5'10 with a lean, wiry build. His expressive eyes are constantly scanning, reading rooms before he enters them, always one step ahead. He wears his hair in a short Jheri curl or tight afro, nodding to the style of the 1980s with a personal twist.
His style is a mix of secondhand hustle and practical comfort—faded denim jackets, old Nike tees, and khaki pants that hang slightly loose. Always clean, never flashy. His look says, “I came from something real.” Whether standing on the block or posted outside school, Dinky carries himself like he knows the rules—and has already broken a few.
Personality
Dominant Traits
Street-Smart: Has a natural understanding of how things work in the neighborhood without needing to get his hands dirty.
Protective: Loyal to a fault, especially with Jack, whom he sees as both a brother and a responsibility.
Charismatic: Witty, quick-talking, and confident—Dinky is the kind of kid who talks his way out of danger more often than he fights his way through it.
Weaknesses
Overconfident: Sometimes his charm gets ahead of his caution.
Torn Loyalty: Struggles between following his uncle’s principles and standing by Jack, even when Jack makes dangerous choices.
Fear of Abandonment: Behind the jokes and bravado is a fear of being left behind—by Jack, by life, by his own potential.
Relatives
Uncle "B" (Family Friend)