Disclaimer: I wish I owned Newsies. I wish.
The day the strike ended was one of the best days of Jack's life. He couldn't remember a time where he felt happier. As for the worst day of his life, that was easily the day Crutchie got taken away. Even worse was when he tried to break him out and the crip couldn't make it to the window. He couldn't even get up from his bed.
So, even though the strike ended successfully and Crutchie was safe, Jack refused to let his best friend out of his sight. Even if it meant selling in the same spots, walking him home, and basically becoming a shadow, Jack refused to let harm come to Crutchie again. Unfortunately, his friend was not as appreciative as he'd hoped.
"For the last time, Jack. I'm fine." Crutchie rolled his eyes as Jack followed him yet again to his selling spot.
"No, Crutchie. Danger could be anywhere and I won't let anything hurt you."
"The strike is over, newsies are understood and appreciated. Nothing's going to happen."
"You never know. The day I don't come to protect you is the day one of the Delanceys show up to rough you up again."
"I can handle the Delanceys. Besides, they're under strict instructions not to harm us."
"Yea, because they is great at following the rules."
"Look, Jack. You can't follow me around forever."
"I can try."
"Go to Katherine. You have to spend some time with your dame."
Jack bit his lip nervously, unsure.
"Go. I'll be fine."
"Alright. Just this once. But anything happens and I'm there."
"I know. Now shoo!"
Jack walked away slowly and looked back to see Crutchie hobbling away.
"Hey, Race!"
The young newsie walked over to his leader, popping a cigar in his mouth.
"Yea, Jack?"
"Keep an eye on Crutch, will ya?"
"Course. You too busy to shadow him?"
"He seems a bit tired of my company. But I can trust you to watch over him, right?"
"You betcha!"
And with that Racetrack ran after his charge with Jack watching regretfully after him.