Question

Why does two-bit tell Ponyboy "you're not like the rest pf us and don't try to be?

Answer 1

Two-bit does not need Pony to be dragged into the life of brutality. Ponyboy was unique and rest of the young men knew it, they value him. Two-bit and Jonny both have same assessment. After Jonny's demise, two-bit and others may expect that Ponyboy may get dragged into the vengeance cycle and may get himself slaughtered with a specific end goal to deliver retribution of Jonny's passing.