Disclaimer: None of the newsies cept Enchanted isn't mine/
A few weeks had passed since Baby's tryst with Spot. Since then, they had been going out, trying unsuccessfully to make Race and Mysty jealous. Spot's shiners were already fading slowly, now turning a light purple before they would disappear altogether.
Enchanted had been visiting Manhattan a lot of times since she had become Mush's girl, and she actually spent more time there than she was in Brooklyn. She didn't like to be around Spot any longer, that every day he became more and more cranky than the day before. She loved being with the Manhattan newsies; they were more laid-back and not as grim as the Brooklyn ones. And she loved being with Mush... the way he smiled, the way his eyes sparkled, the way you could reach over and ruffle his curly hair. She loved it when he would engulf her in a hug, putting those muscular arms around her and making her feel safe and warm inside. And he laughed at her jokes...well; he laughed at everyone's jokes, but still...
Gears watched the two of them. It was about time that Mush found someone to hold on to, and someone as nice as Enchanted. They looked good together, she admitted. They were turning out to be inseparable, wherever she went he was there too. They would soon become like all the couples at the Lodging House, in love endlessly.
Across the table, Tapper was paying attention to someone else. She observed as Mysty leaned her head on Race's shoulder, oblivious at the look that Baby was giving her. On the other hand, Spot was glaring at Race as he gave Mysty a kiss. Tapper shook her head. It was obvious that Baby and Spot still had feelings for Race and Mysty. 'But why are they with each other then?' She elbowed her boyfriend whose hands were getting a little busy.
"Whad?" he whined, "Sorry," he apologized, pulling back.
"Not dat. Look at da way dose four are actin'," she gestured. Skittery just shrugged like he didn't care and promptly started playing with her hair. She grinned, and snuggled closer, forgetting all about them. Over the other side of the table, hoots and hollers went up as Mush pulled Enchanted towards him, tentatively brushing his lips to hers. After a few seconds, she kissed him back harder, not caring they were now the center of attention. It was their first kiss, and she wanted to make it as memorable as she could. When she finally tugged her lips away, everyone was staring at her.
"What?" she asked her brown eyes sparkling with happiness in answer to Mysty's smug smile and everyone else's probing stare. He reached for her hand and gripped it tightly. For a moment, Enchanted wondered what it would feel like, just for once, what it would be like to have him touch her body, his fingers trailing across her skin. Then, she shook herself out of the daydream with a shiver. 'Stop it,' she scolded herself, 'You're going to be a virgin until you marry. That's that.'
"Pokah game tonight!" Race announced, "Ta celebrate da fact dat Mush finally got himself a goil! And dat he finally got kissed."
Mush threw his hat at him, and Race ducked laughingly. The whole table was laughing, save two people, who were unbelievably as calm as the eye of a storm...
~*~
Everyone groaned as Enchanted threw down her cards. "Four of a kind!" she proclaimed. She dragged all the money over to her side, as Race grumbled, "I'se swear you'se cheatin' somehow. I'se gonna find out..."
Enchanted just rolled her eyes, and stood up from the table, stuffing the money in her pocket. "Quit while I'm ahead," she told everyone what she was doing. Thoughtfully, she walked over to where Spot was gazing out the window. She didn't want to go back to the Brooklyn Lodging House. What she wanted to do was stay here with Mysty and Mush... But to do that, she had to ask his permission. "Spot?" When he didn't answer, she prudently continued, "I wanna stay here for the night...can I?"
He instantly refused. "Heah? In Manhattan? But you'se a Brooklyn newsie," he said, "I'se don't wantcha ta spend dis much time heah."
Enchanted felt anger grow, but with a gulp, she silenced it. "Spotty, I don't think what you say can influence what I do. I'm just gonna stay here! You trust these people, you trust Jack, hell, you even trust Mush. Why can't I stay the night here?"
"Because you'se could be just like ya slut sistah and bed every boy in heah," he snapped back. He was in a bad enough mood, and he didn't try to soften things up for her.
"What?!" Enchanted didn't try to control the anger that arose in her now, "What the fuck---Spot take back what you just said."
"I'se jist sayin' dat you'se ain't gonna stay heah fo' tonight. Dat's da end a it."
"Goddamn it, Spot! You can't tell me what to do!" Enchanted yelled, drawing everyone's attention.
"Really? Den why did you come ovah heah ta ask me permission in da foist place?" he calmly noted.
"I--- well, that doesn't matter. I'm stayin' here," she voiced.
Spot's eyes closed his eyes for a second before he said, "Fine, Enchanted. Stay heah. But don't expect ta come back ta da Lodging House anytime soon. Me boys see ya in Brooklyn, dey'll soak ya."
Mysty half stood before Spot could get any further. Everyone was listening now, and she wanted to stop both of them before they disclosed something they didn't want all of the Manhattan newsies to hear.
Enchanted inhaled brokenly. "You're kicking me out?" she said furtively. He glared at her, and nodded very slowly. "Fine. I can always stay with Harem," she said, "Oh, and another thing. I'm glad. I've had about enough of you and your leadership abilities."
"Don't push it, Chanty," he growled, using the words he always used to say to warn her. But this time, he put much more anger, and much more emphasis on the words. He drew out his gold-tipped cane and pointed it dangerously at her.
Enchanted, however, swung her hand up and knocked it out of his grip. It swung over his shoulder and hit the window with an audible thud. He didn't even flinch as it dropped at his heels. "Tell ya slut sistah---" he said loudly, loud so that everyone could in the room could hear. Mysty started forward but it was too late, "dat I'se said hi. And send her me way sometime soon. I'se in da mood fo' some good---"
Mysty put a hand to her mouth. She didn't expect Spot to be that harsh. Quickly, she put her other arm on Enchanted's shoulder to support her.
Enchanted's gaze dropped away from Spot's as her vision got fuzzy with unshed tears. He had basically announced to all the people she knew and cared about something that should have stayed buried within her. She quickly stepped away from the firm, angry boy at the window, and with brisk steps ducked underneath the white sheet that separated the room. Right now, she was thankful for it. It separated her from the rest of the world, and she didn't want the rest of the world to become involved with her tears.
Mush, who had been watching the whole argument from the start, quickly threw down his cards and got up from his knees to follow her. After flashing Spot an angry, disapproving look, he disappeared behind the sheet.
Spot closed his eyes tightly. 'Damn it,' he cursed himself, 'I didn't mean to say that...' He glanced up to see the reproving look Mysty was giving him. 'The worst thing,' he thought, 'Is that Mysty hates me now even more.'
With a gusty sigh, he turned towards the door, and exited the room, still not believing the harsh, cutting words he had spoken to one of his closest friends. He muttered a half-hearted goodnight to Kloppman and went out into the night, still brooding and dwelling on his mistake
~*~
Mysty clenched a hand and punched the wall over and over. It had been about 20 minutes after Spot had insulted Enchanted and she could not believe the words that he had spoken to her. Race stood up and gave her and grabbed her fists, halting her in mid-jab.
"Calm down, babe, it'll be ok, aw right?" Race said comfortingly.
"Damn that Spot Conlon!" she shouted.
Jack sighed and pushed Sling off his lap. "Look, you'se good at talkin' wid people. Go talk ta her," he ordered.
Sling nodded fervently and started walking towards her, fingering the slingshot in her back pocket for reassurance. "Race?" she whispered in low tones, "Lemme talk ta her, aw right?"
Race nodded meekly and stepped away from the immobile girl.
"Mysty?" Sling asked, touching her shoulder.
"I can't believe he said that...to her! To Enchanted! She..." Mysty ranted on until Sling interrupted.
"Mysty, it ain't any a ya business. Jist let it go, and let's see how Enchanted takes it, aw right?" she demanded.
Mysty's shoulders sagged as she consented with a nod. "All right." Sling threw an arm over her shoulder and dragged her back to the poker game, where she was promptly drawn into the game.
Baby had been watching the whole scene between Enchanted and Spot, and she was the only one who had noticed that Spot's gold-tipped cane was still resting on the floor. 'Gonna be mad when he realizes that it's still here.' Her quick mind worked fast. 'What if---' suddenly, a devious plan came to mind. It would present the opportunity for her to be alone with Race, and for Mysty to be alone with Spot. "Mysty?" she inquired in friendly tones.
"What?!" Mysty snapped.
"Spot left his cane heah. Do ya want ta go up ta Brooklyn and give it back ta him?"
"Why would I want to do that?" Mysty snarled, "Besides, I might get lost on the way to the Bridge."
"Well...I'se can lead you ta da Bridge and then you can go da rest a da way ta da Lodging House...it would give you'se da chance ta chew him out..." she said, a slight hint in her voice.
Tapper's eyes jumped from one girl to the other. She had already figured things out. She shook her head and a cynic smile twisted on her lips. 'They do still have feelings for each other...they're just doing it to make the other one jealous.' Normally, she would have jumped in and revealed their secret, but she was much too interested in watching the drama unfold than squeal on them. So, she concealed a knowing look and continued in the card game.
Mysty nodded frantically. "I like the sound of that!" she proclaimed, "You would lead me to the Bridge?"
"A coise! Spot was a jeyk ta even forbid her ta come heah!" Baby admitted.
Mysty stood up and smoothly walked to the window, picking up the cane and holding it away from her as if it stank like raw sewage. "Let's go," she ordered. Baby stood up and followed her. The last thing she saw before she left was Race's worried gaze.
~*~
Enchanted's body wracked with silent sobs. Having Mush nearby didn't help her any as she slowly gained her composure. When the tears finally stopped, Mush wasted no time in drawing her to him in a tight hug. "Enchanted," he started to say, "I'se don't care if ya sistah's a prostitute. I'se could care less. All I'se care about is you'se," he stated truthfully. "And if you'se ain't happy, I'se ain't happy." Before he knew it, he was telling her the three words that had ruined Baby and Race's relationship. "I'se love you." He looked away ashamedly, hoping she wouldn't be too disgusted.
She wasn't. Smiling, she took his hand and tilted her head up to gaze into his eyes. "Thanks, Mush. I needed that right now. But you know what else I need?"
"Whad?" he asked curiously, ready to do whatever she desired.
"This," she whispered before kissing him firmly. When they finally dragged themselves away from each other, she exhaled and uttered, "I love you too," before pulling him towards her.
~*~
Mysty stepped onto the Bridge. She had just said good-bye to Baby, and was about to follow Spot to the Lodging House. In the distance, she could make out his slender body retreating further and further away from her. She stuck the cane in her pants and started jogging after him.
Spot could hear someone behind him. Sighing, he spun around to acknowledge him or her. If he was from the Lodging House, he wasn't even going to bother talking to him. He didn't want his night to get any worse. He couldn't tell who it was as he or she jogged towards him, but when she stopped to rest, he realized who it was. Mysty...he watched with an accelerating heartbeat as she stepped closer with brisk strides. 'Why is she here?' There was something sensual in the way her figure was outlined in the starlight, and in the way she moved. And the silver light from the moon lit her up, making her beauty seem ethereal. Her hair lifted from her shoulders each time she took one more step towards him.
Mysty stopped to get a breath. It wasn't that she was tired, it was the fact that Spot seemed so handsome standing there, waiting for her. For a moment she almost forgot the reason she had ran through three-quarters of the Brooklyn Bridge. With a twinge, she understood the fact that she had never really gotten over him. The feelings she had first felt for him came flooding back, and she nearly drowned in a feeling of love and giddiness. Never mind hatred and never mind the fact that he had cheated on her, and never mind the fact that right now she was with Race. His blue eyes bore into hers, making her feel light-headed and dizzy. She strode closer, wanting once again to be by his side.
"Whad is it?" he asked quietly, a softness within his eyes that Mysty had never seen before.
Without a word, Mysty dug into her pants and drew out his cane.
"Thanks," he said, bemused, and then said, "Do you'se wanna come ta Brooklyn...fo' da night?"
She knew what he was insinuating. And the thought of him and her together made her heart race and her breathing quickened. Something inside her screamed at her, 'You're still with Racetrack!' But she ignored that voice and nodded slowly, yet surely.
When they stepped off the bridge, Spot swiftly stuck the cane in a belt loop in his pants and swiftly swept her up in his arms; her arms tightened around his neck. Suddenly, their hands were everywhere, rubbing her back; her fingers buried in his thick hair. Pulling away, she attempted to get an accurate look at him. Their eyes met for a breathless moment as heat flowed through her body. Then, his mouth was on hers, his breath mixing with her own.
There weren't enough words to illustrate the thunder that rolled through his body and heart. Blazing sweetness raced from her lips through his body, making him tingle, making his breath come short in his lungs, making his knees watery.
Strong consciousness of all the places in where they touched---from the palms resting on her back to her breasts, stomach, and thighs---made the blood beat in her veins.
Mysty took her mouth away. "No," he whispered, and pulled her back. This time, he was gentler, easing his lips gingerly over hers, pulling away shortly, and then returning. He finally pulled away with a strangled laugh and then took her hand to lead her to the Lodging House.
~*~
Baby was treading back to the Lodging House, contemplating on her next move, when she was roughly grabbed from behind. It took her only a few seconds to react as she stepped on her attacker's black boots and started to dash away, but she was cruelly yanked back by the tips of her curly hair. She knew what he was trying to do, and she let out a scream of anguish.
Race was in the Lodging House, losing miserably because he couldn't keep his poker face on. He was too worried. Unbelievably, it wasn't Mysty he was worried about, but Baby. His mind kept conjuring up images of Baby, lying in an alley, bleeding and bruised, her beautiful, blonde hair with her unusual curly tips floating in a pool of her own blood...sighing audibly, he stood up from the crate. "I'se gonna take a walk," he mumbled as he lit up a cigar and strolled out of the Lodging House. No one looked up at his exit, save Tapper and Gears, who were already starting to suspect something. Now both Race and Spot were gone, with Mysty and Baby.
He walked along the cobblestone, not looking at anything but at the seemingly interesting cracks in the street when he heard a scream of distress. Picking up the pace, he quickly ran to the source of where he had heard it, and ended up at an alley. What he saw by the lamplight made his blood grow cold, and then boil over. A man with greasy blonde hair and a slimy face was pressing a blade to Baby's neck and was whispering something in her ear. She had a look of indescribable terror on her face, as he pressed his lips to her cheek. Then, an exultant look came over her face as she realized who was watching this whole thing.
The man yelled in pain as she sank her teeth into his hand that was clamped over her mouth. Race tackled him as Baby struggled to get away. The knife clattered to the ground, by Baby's feet. She grabbed it and hurled it away as fast as she could.
Race struggled to pin the man down, but he was heavier and much older than he was. "Baby!" he managed to get out, "Go ta da bench!"
"NO!" she screamed, "I'se ain't leavin' you'se!" Something inside of her asked, 'He still remembers the bench?'
"Dammit, Baby, jist go!" he demanded as he struggled to keep his hold. "Do as I'se say!" Baby started off, running as fast as she could towards Central Park. She hoped she could remember where the bench was; it had been so long since she had visited it. Anger and disbelief rolled around in her head, as she passed the trees and the flowers. Before she knew it, she was there. She dropped down on it, and wasted no time rubbing her hand zealously at the cheek the man had kissed with his dirty lips. Tears came to her eyes as she thought about Race. If he gets hurt...she impatiently stood up to await his coming and then sat back down. She kept alternating positions as she pondered on the thought of how fateful it was that Race had been there for her.
After 20 minutes of pacing and worrying, she heard footsteps. Looking up, she saw a limping towards her. In the lamplight, she could barely make out a plaid vest over a---what must have been clean once---white shirt. But it was the cigar he was puffing on that gave him away. Baby got up, her heart twisting within her chest, and then ran to him, hitting him with enough force to drive him backwards into a nearby tree.
"Dat hoit!" he gasped indignantly, but before she could apologize, he was kissing her, her cheeks, her eyes, her forehead, her lips. She kissed him back. They came up for air, then kissed again, their hands running over each other's bodies, scrutinizing for injuries, as well as just for the simple enjoyment of touch.
Race had realized back in the alley his true feelings for her. Seeing her almost come to harm had awakened him, and he knew that the reality of it all was that he loved her. He fought to get up and was about to fall down, when Baby helped him up. His leg wasn't doing much to support him; but he knew it would heal. Especially now that he was with Baby.
"Are you'se ok?" she asked, concerned, noting the painful look on his face.
"I'se fine..." he murmured and kissed her again, his mouth tarrying on hers. The surging fire of desire nearly swamped Baby before he broke the kiss. He kissed her eyelids, then the very tip of her nose, and then he found her lips again, all the while his hands were tangled up in her hair. When he finally stopped, it was Baby who could hardly stand. Race had always been such a good kisser.
Baby snuggled closer, lifting her face to his. "I'm glad," she said truthfully, "Kiss me again, please."
Race drew in a ragged breath, "Oh, no. If I'se kiss ya again, one t'ing will lead ta annuda, and dis ain't da proper place fo' dat sorta t'ing."
"Den take me ta a place dat is," she pleaded. He hesitated, and she continued, " I'se know exactly whad I'se doing, Race. And it ain't cuz I'se jealous a you'se and Mysty. Dis...dis shoulda happened between us a long time ago."
Race inhaled, and then ran a hand through her hair, savoring the touch as he did so. He hadn't been able to touch her hair in so long...he cleared his throat. "Well, den. Come wid me." He led her back to the Lodging House, and into one of the empty rooms, still kissing her. In the background, the game was still going on, but the noises faded as they both sank into eternal bliss.
~*~
Mush and Enchanted were laying on Mysty's bunk bed. Somehow, they hadn't gotten any further than kisses, but that was only because Enchanted had stopped herself from literally throwing herself on him.
He kissed her cheek, still basking in the happiness she brought him. Enchanted giggled and wondered why she had been so mad in the first place. Mush was all hers to hold forever. Still...sighing she got up, and pushed Mush away. "I gotta go, Mush. I have to talk to Spot. Gotta talk to him about the whole argument thing that happened in there," she explained. Mush pouted.
"Aw right," he agreed.
"Wanna come along?" she asked, her eyebrows raised.
"No, I'll t'ink I'll stay heah," he murmured. "Come back soon," he whispered, giving her a quick kiss.
"I won't be able to stay away," she said honestly, before turning away and leaving him still lying on the bed.
~*~
Spot traced his fingers on the back of Mysty's neck, smiling slightly. She was great. She had just given him the best night of his life, and his love for her deepened.
Mysty tucked herself into the curve of his arm and then rested her head on his bare chest. "You're trembling," she observed.
"I'se only tired," he explained. She knew he was lying.
"Spot? What do we have now?" she asked, her eyebrows knitting together in a frown. "Is it love?"
"Mysty!" he cried.
"What?" she snapped. She hoped he wasn't at all like Race, who was afraid of being loved.
"Don't say dat. It don't seem right. It's like I'se takin' advantage a your innocence. A man a me reputation and expertise..." he trailed off.
" 'Takin' advantage of'? And what innocence?" she scoffed.
"You should know how many goils I'se been wid!"
"What has that got to do with anything?!" she snapped.
"Look, Mys, it's easy fo' an experienced man like me ta trick someone into t'inking dat believing she's in love wid me. Da only one who I'se must not 'ave tricked was Enchanted." A short smile flitted across his face, then disappeared as he remembered what had happened earlier.
"Do you love me or not?" she demanded, rising up from his chest and looking him square in the eye.
"Dat is not whad we're talkin' bout," he defiantly answered.
"It's not?!" she asked loudly, ready to go into an argument, "Then what the hell are we talking about?! Sex?!" Without looking down, she knew she had hurt him. But why? Then, she knew the answer. "You're in love with me?" she whispered. He looked away. "Love's wonderful. What's wrong with it?"
When he didn't answer, she knew why. He didn't want to settle down just yet. He wanted her to wait for him so he could have his ample amount of different girls each month. Well, she wouldn't do it. Mysty indignantly stood up, letting the sheet fall from her body.
"If you can't accept the fact that we're in love, then I don't want to talk to you. Go find someone else to be your play toy," she said harshly, pulling on her clothes. She stalked over to the window and opened it, slamming it down hard behind her.
Spot buried his head in his arms, cursing himself.
~*~
Baby and Race lay side by side, smiles lingering on their faces. The poker game was dying out, but the euphoria was that surround them wasn't. It had been about an hour, but they hadn't quit until they were truly exhausted.
Slowly, he turned towards her, and then his eyes widened. "Jesus!" he cursed, "Whad about Mysty?"
"Does she matta any longer?" she asked, rolling her eyes.
Slowly, he shook his head. "I'se guess not." After a few moments of lying there and just luxuriating in the after-glow, Race looked at Baby and started fiddling with her hair. "Damn, you'se beautiful," he whispered sincerely.
Baby smiled proudly and then took a deep breath. "You'se still haven't told me if you'se loved me or not."
Race looked away and focused his eyes on the dirty, gray wall. "Does dat matta any longer?" he quoted what she said.
"Yes, it does, Racetrack."
He shook his head. "Baby, I'se can't say anythin' until you'se can prove ta me dat you'se do love me fo' real. Dat dis would be fo'evah."
"I'm tellin' you'se right now, Race!" she shouted. Instantly, the Bunk Room quieted down, and Baby could imagine all of them looking at each other in confusion. "Fuck you'se, Race," she growled, and got up from the bed, snatching up her clothes. Race struggled to get up after her. Quickly getting dressed, she turned to get out of the room, and then spun around again. "I'se do love you, Racetrack. And dis should prove it." She dug into her pocket and drew out a dirty, decrepit, old cigar. She threw it to him, and he fumbled, catching it. Baby turned on her heel and opened the door to let momentarily let in light.
As the door closed, shutting out the luminescence, Race realized what the object he held in his hand was. It was the cigar Baby had stolen from him so many months ago. Clenching his fingers over it, he let the tears fall.
~*~
Enchanted picked up her pace. She was now off the Brooklyn Bridge, but all through the whole crossing, she had heard footsteps, ever persistent, and they did not stop. She risked a glance over her shoulder from time to time, but each time she did, all she saw were shadows and darkness. Her hand went to her back pocket, where the slingshot Spot had given her was resting safely. She wished Sling were here. Sling could have driven him away easily. Hell, she wished Mush were here to protect her.
Nearing the Lodging House, she started jogging. She counted off the blocks as she came nearer. If she could just go one more block, then she would be safe...suddenly, she was seized from behind.
The man had been following her since she had stepped out of the Lodging House. He was angry that his first victim he didn't get to do anything with. He preferred blondes over any other girl. But this girl was pretty too. He pressed his lips to her cheek, inhaling her sweet scent
"Holy fucking---" she said and then started struggling. It was an unfair fight. He was in his early 30's and much more muscular than a 16 year old girl. Throwing her against the brick wall of the alley, he lay on top of her. She started screaming, but he slapped her, cautioning her to keep quiet. Blood from the corner of her lips trickled down her chin. He gripped her arms tightly to hold her down and then ripped the gray shirt she was wearing off. He pinched her and she screamed in agony. After a few minutes, he could stand it no longer and then ripped off her black pants and panties off.
She whimpered at the pain of his entrance, her virginity seared and gone forever. Endlessly it went and now, she was drifting in between unconsciousness and awareness of everything he was doing. By the lamplight, the last thing she saw was his ugly, deranged smile.
He pulled out of her just as he climaxed and then hurriedly searched her ripped pants for money. He stuffed the five dollars he found in his pocket and pulled on his clothes. Blowing her a kiss, he laughed derisively, leaving her beaten and bruised body behind.
A few weeks had passed since Baby's tryst with Spot. Since then, they had been going out, trying unsuccessfully to make Race and Mysty jealous. Spot's shiners were already fading slowly, now turning a light purple before they would disappear altogether.
Enchanted had been visiting Manhattan a lot of times since she had become Mush's girl, and she actually spent more time there than she was in Brooklyn. She didn't like to be around Spot any longer, that every day he became more and more cranky than the day before. She loved being with the Manhattan newsies; they were more laid-back and not as grim as the Brooklyn ones. And she loved being with Mush... the way he smiled, the way his eyes sparkled, the way you could reach over and ruffle his curly hair. She loved it when he would engulf her in a hug, putting those muscular arms around her and making her feel safe and warm inside. And he laughed at her jokes...well; he laughed at everyone's jokes, but still...
Gears watched the two of them. It was about time that Mush found someone to hold on to, and someone as nice as Enchanted. They looked good together, she admitted. They were turning out to be inseparable, wherever she went he was there too. They would soon become like all the couples at the Lodging House, in love endlessly.
Across the table, Tapper was paying attention to someone else. She observed as Mysty leaned her head on Race's shoulder, oblivious at the look that Baby was giving her. On the other hand, Spot was glaring at Race as he gave Mysty a kiss. Tapper shook her head. It was obvious that Baby and Spot still had feelings for Race and Mysty. 'But why are they with each other then?' She elbowed her boyfriend whose hands were getting a little busy.
"Whad?" he whined, "Sorry," he apologized, pulling back.
"Not dat. Look at da way dose four are actin'," she gestured. Skittery just shrugged like he didn't care and promptly started playing with her hair. She grinned, and snuggled closer, forgetting all about them. Over the other side of the table, hoots and hollers went up as Mush pulled Enchanted towards him, tentatively brushing his lips to hers. After a few seconds, she kissed him back harder, not caring they were now the center of attention. It was their first kiss, and she wanted to make it as memorable as she could. When she finally tugged her lips away, everyone was staring at her.
"What?" she asked her brown eyes sparkling with happiness in answer to Mysty's smug smile and everyone else's probing stare. He reached for her hand and gripped it tightly. For a moment, Enchanted wondered what it would feel like, just for once, what it would be like to have him touch her body, his fingers trailing across her skin. Then, she shook herself out of the daydream with a shiver. 'Stop it,' she scolded herself, 'You're going to be a virgin until you marry. That's that.'
"Pokah game tonight!" Race announced, "Ta celebrate da fact dat Mush finally got himself a goil! And dat he finally got kissed."
Mush threw his hat at him, and Race ducked laughingly. The whole table was laughing, save two people, who were unbelievably as calm as the eye of a storm...
~*~
Everyone groaned as Enchanted threw down her cards. "Four of a kind!" she proclaimed. She dragged all the money over to her side, as Race grumbled, "I'se swear you'se cheatin' somehow. I'se gonna find out..."
Enchanted just rolled her eyes, and stood up from the table, stuffing the money in her pocket. "Quit while I'm ahead," she told everyone what she was doing. Thoughtfully, she walked over to where Spot was gazing out the window. She didn't want to go back to the Brooklyn Lodging House. What she wanted to do was stay here with Mysty and Mush... But to do that, she had to ask his permission. "Spot?" When he didn't answer, she prudently continued, "I wanna stay here for the night...can I?"
He instantly refused. "Heah? In Manhattan? But you'se a Brooklyn newsie," he said, "I'se don't wantcha ta spend dis much time heah."
Enchanted felt anger grow, but with a gulp, she silenced it. "Spotty, I don't think what you say can influence what I do. I'm just gonna stay here! You trust these people, you trust Jack, hell, you even trust Mush. Why can't I stay the night here?"
"Because you'se could be just like ya slut sistah and bed every boy in heah," he snapped back. He was in a bad enough mood, and he didn't try to soften things up for her.
"What?!" Enchanted didn't try to control the anger that arose in her now, "What the fuck---Spot take back what you just said."
"I'se jist sayin' dat you'se ain't gonna stay heah fo' tonight. Dat's da end a it."
"Goddamn it, Spot! You can't tell me what to do!" Enchanted yelled, drawing everyone's attention.
"Really? Den why did you come ovah heah ta ask me permission in da foist place?" he calmly noted.
"I--- well, that doesn't matter. I'm stayin' here," she voiced.
Spot's eyes closed his eyes for a second before he said, "Fine, Enchanted. Stay heah. But don't expect ta come back ta da Lodging House anytime soon. Me boys see ya in Brooklyn, dey'll soak ya."
Mysty half stood before Spot could get any further. Everyone was listening now, and she wanted to stop both of them before they disclosed something they didn't want all of the Manhattan newsies to hear.
Enchanted inhaled brokenly. "You're kicking me out?" she said furtively. He glared at her, and nodded very slowly. "Fine. I can always stay with Harem," she said, "Oh, and another thing. I'm glad. I've had about enough of you and your leadership abilities."
"Don't push it, Chanty," he growled, using the words he always used to say to warn her. But this time, he put much more anger, and much more emphasis on the words. He drew out his gold-tipped cane and pointed it dangerously at her.
Enchanted, however, swung her hand up and knocked it out of his grip. It swung over his shoulder and hit the window with an audible thud. He didn't even flinch as it dropped at his heels. "Tell ya slut sistah---" he said loudly, loud so that everyone could in the room could hear. Mysty started forward but it was too late, "dat I'se said hi. And send her me way sometime soon. I'se in da mood fo' some good---"
Mysty put a hand to her mouth. She didn't expect Spot to be that harsh. Quickly, she put her other arm on Enchanted's shoulder to support her.
Enchanted's gaze dropped away from Spot's as her vision got fuzzy with unshed tears. He had basically announced to all the people she knew and cared about something that should have stayed buried within her. She quickly stepped away from the firm, angry boy at the window, and with brisk steps ducked underneath the white sheet that separated the room. Right now, she was thankful for it. It separated her from the rest of the world, and she didn't want the rest of the world to become involved with her tears.
Mush, who had been watching the whole argument from the start, quickly threw down his cards and got up from his knees to follow her. After flashing Spot an angry, disapproving look, he disappeared behind the sheet.
Spot closed his eyes tightly. 'Damn it,' he cursed himself, 'I didn't mean to say that...' He glanced up to see the reproving look Mysty was giving him. 'The worst thing,' he thought, 'Is that Mysty hates me now even more.'
With a gusty sigh, he turned towards the door, and exited the room, still not believing the harsh, cutting words he had spoken to one of his closest friends. He muttered a half-hearted goodnight to Kloppman and went out into the night, still brooding and dwelling on his mistake
~*~
Mysty clenched a hand and punched the wall over and over. It had been about 20 minutes after Spot had insulted Enchanted and she could not believe the words that he had spoken to her. Race stood up and gave her and grabbed her fists, halting her in mid-jab.
"Calm down, babe, it'll be ok, aw right?" Race said comfortingly.
"Damn that Spot Conlon!" she shouted.
Jack sighed and pushed Sling off his lap. "Look, you'se good at talkin' wid people. Go talk ta her," he ordered.
Sling nodded fervently and started walking towards her, fingering the slingshot in her back pocket for reassurance. "Race?" she whispered in low tones, "Lemme talk ta her, aw right?"
Race nodded meekly and stepped away from the immobile girl.
"Mysty?" Sling asked, touching her shoulder.
"I can't believe he said that...to her! To Enchanted! She..." Mysty ranted on until Sling interrupted.
"Mysty, it ain't any a ya business. Jist let it go, and let's see how Enchanted takes it, aw right?" she demanded.
Mysty's shoulders sagged as she consented with a nod. "All right." Sling threw an arm over her shoulder and dragged her back to the poker game, where she was promptly drawn into the game.
Baby had been watching the whole scene between Enchanted and Spot, and she was the only one who had noticed that Spot's gold-tipped cane was still resting on the floor. 'Gonna be mad when he realizes that it's still here.' Her quick mind worked fast. 'What if---' suddenly, a devious plan came to mind. It would present the opportunity for her to be alone with Race, and for Mysty to be alone with Spot. "Mysty?" she inquired in friendly tones.
"What?!" Mysty snapped.
"Spot left his cane heah. Do ya want ta go up ta Brooklyn and give it back ta him?"
"Why would I want to do that?" Mysty snarled, "Besides, I might get lost on the way to the Bridge."
"Well...I'se can lead you ta da Bridge and then you can go da rest a da way ta da Lodging House...it would give you'se da chance ta chew him out..." she said, a slight hint in her voice.
Tapper's eyes jumped from one girl to the other. She had already figured things out. She shook her head and a cynic smile twisted on her lips. 'They do still have feelings for each other...they're just doing it to make the other one jealous.' Normally, she would have jumped in and revealed their secret, but she was much too interested in watching the drama unfold than squeal on them. So, she concealed a knowing look and continued in the card game.
Mysty nodded frantically. "I like the sound of that!" she proclaimed, "You would lead me to the Bridge?"
"A coise! Spot was a jeyk ta even forbid her ta come heah!" Baby admitted.
Mysty stood up and smoothly walked to the window, picking up the cane and holding it away from her as if it stank like raw sewage. "Let's go," she ordered. Baby stood up and followed her. The last thing she saw before she left was Race's worried gaze.
~*~
Enchanted's body wracked with silent sobs. Having Mush nearby didn't help her any as she slowly gained her composure. When the tears finally stopped, Mush wasted no time in drawing her to him in a tight hug. "Enchanted," he started to say, "I'se don't care if ya sistah's a prostitute. I'se could care less. All I'se care about is you'se," he stated truthfully. "And if you'se ain't happy, I'se ain't happy." Before he knew it, he was telling her the three words that had ruined Baby and Race's relationship. "I'se love you." He looked away ashamedly, hoping she wouldn't be too disgusted.
She wasn't. Smiling, she took his hand and tilted her head up to gaze into his eyes. "Thanks, Mush. I needed that right now. But you know what else I need?"
"Whad?" he asked curiously, ready to do whatever she desired.
"This," she whispered before kissing him firmly. When they finally dragged themselves away from each other, she exhaled and uttered, "I love you too," before pulling him towards her.
~*~
Mysty stepped onto the Bridge. She had just said good-bye to Baby, and was about to follow Spot to the Lodging House. In the distance, she could make out his slender body retreating further and further away from her. She stuck the cane in her pants and started jogging after him.
Spot could hear someone behind him. Sighing, he spun around to acknowledge him or her. If he was from the Lodging House, he wasn't even going to bother talking to him. He didn't want his night to get any worse. He couldn't tell who it was as he or she jogged towards him, but when she stopped to rest, he realized who it was. Mysty...he watched with an accelerating heartbeat as she stepped closer with brisk strides. 'Why is she here?' There was something sensual in the way her figure was outlined in the starlight, and in the way she moved. And the silver light from the moon lit her up, making her beauty seem ethereal. Her hair lifted from her shoulders each time she took one more step towards him.
Mysty stopped to get a breath. It wasn't that she was tired, it was the fact that Spot seemed so handsome standing there, waiting for her. For a moment she almost forgot the reason she had ran through three-quarters of the Brooklyn Bridge. With a twinge, she understood the fact that she had never really gotten over him. The feelings she had first felt for him came flooding back, and she nearly drowned in a feeling of love and giddiness. Never mind hatred and never mind the fact that he had cheated on her, and never mind the fact that right now she was with Race. His blue eyes bore into hers, making her feel light-headed and dizzy. She strode closer, wanting once again to be by his side.
"Whad is it?" he asked quietly, a softness within his eyes that Mysty had never seen before.
Without a word, Mysty dug into her pants and drew out his cane.
"Thanks," he said, bemused, and then said, "Do you'se wanna come ta Brooklyn...fo' da night?"
She knew what he was insinuating. And the thought of him and her together made her heart race and her breathing quickened. Something inside her screamed at her, 'You're still with Racetrack!' But she ignored that voice and nodded slowly, yet surely.
When they stepped off the bridge, Spot swiftly stuck the cane in a belt loop in his pants and swiftly swept her up in his arms; her arms tightened around his neck. Suddenly, their hands were everywhere, rubbing her back; her fingers buried in his thick hair. Pulling away, she attempted to get an accurate look at him. Their eyes met for a breathless moment as heat flowed through her body. Then, his mouth was on hers, his breath mixing with her own.
There weren't enough words to illustrate the thunder that rolled through his body and heart. Blazing sweetness raced from her lips through his body, making him tingle, making his breath come short in his lungs, making his knees watery.
Strong consciousness of all the places in where they touched---from the palms resting on her back to her breasts, stomach, and thighs---made the blood beat in her veins.
Mysty took her mouth away. "No," he whispered, and pulled her back. This time, he was gentler, easing his lips gingerly over hers, pulling away shortly, and then returning. He finally pulled away with a strangled laugh and then took her hand to lead her to the Lodging House.
~*~
Baby was treading back to the Lodging House, contemplating on her next move, when she was roughly grabbed from behind. It took her only a few seconds to react as she stepped on her attacker's black boots and started to dash away, but she was cruelly yanked back by the tips of her curly hair. She knew what he was trying to do, and she let out a scream of anguish.
Race was in the Lodging House, losing miserably because he couldn't keep his poker face on. He was too worried. Unbelievably, it wasn't Mysty he was worried about, but Baby. His mind kept conjuring up images of Baby, lying in an alley, bleeding and bruised, her beautiful, blonde hair with her unusual curly tips floating in a pool of her own blood...sighing audibly, he stood up from the crate. "I'se gonna take a walk," he mumbled as he lit up a cigar and strolled out of the Lodging House. No one looked up at his exit, save Tapper and Gears, who were already starting to suspect something. Now both Race and Spot were gone, with Mysty and Baby.
He walked along the cobblestone, not looking at anything but at the seemingly interesting cracks in the street when he heard a scream of distress. Picking up the pace, he quickly ran to the source of where he had heard it, and ended up at an alley. What he saw by the lamplight made his blood grow cold, and then boil over. A man with greasy blonde hair and a slimy face was pressing a blade to Baby's neck and was whispering something in her ear. She had a look of indescribable terror on her face, as he pressed his lips to her cheek. Then, an exultant look came over her face as she realized who was watching this whole thing.
The man yelled in pain as she sank her teeth into his hand that was clamped over her mouth. Race tackled him as Baby struggled to get away. The knife clattered to the ground, by Baby's feet. She grabbed it and hurled it away as fast as she could.
Race struggled to pin the man down, but he was heavier and much older than he was. "Baby!" he managed to get out, "Go ta da bench!"
"NO!" she screamed, "I'se ain't leavin' you'se!" Something inside of her asked, 'He still remembers the bench?'
"Dammit, Baby, jist go!" he demanded as he struggled to keep his hold. "Do as I'se say!" Baby started off, running as fast as she could towards Central Park. She hoped she could remember where the bench was; it had been so long since she had visited it. Anger and disbelief rolled around in her head, as she passed the trees and the flowers. Before she knew it, she was there. She dropped down on it, and wasted no time rubbing her hand zealously at the cheek the man had kissed with his dirty lips. Tears came to her eyes as she thought about Race. If he gets hurt...she impatiently stood up to await his coming and then sat back down. She kept alternating positions as she pondered on the thought of how fateful it was that Race had been there for her.
After 20 minutes of pacing and worrying, she heard footsteps. Looking up, she saw a limping towards her. In the lamplight, she could barely make out a plaid vest over a---what must have been clean once---white shirt. But it was the cigar he was puffing on that gave him away. Baby got up, her heart twisting within her chest, and then ran to him, hitting him with enough force to drive him backwards into a nearby tree.
"Dat hoit!" he gasped indignantly, but before she could apologize, he was kissing her, her cheeks, her eyes, her forehead, her lips. She kissed him back. They came up for air, then kissed again, their hands running over each other's bodies, scrutinizing for injuries, as well as just for the simple enjoyment of touch.
Race had realized back in the alley his true feelings for her. Seeing her almost come to harm had awakened him, and he knew that the reality of it all was that he loved her. He fought to get up and was about to fall down, when Baby helped him up. His leg wasn't doing much to support him; but he knew it would heal. Especially now that he was with Baby.
"Are you'se ok?" she asked, concerned, noting the painful look on his face.
"I'se fine..." he murmured and kissed her again, his mouth tarrying on hers. The surging fire of desire nearly swamped Baby before he broke the kiss. He kissed her eyelids, then the very tip of her nose, and then he found her lips again, all the while his hands were tangled up in her hair. When he finally stopped, it was Baby who could hardly stand. Race had always been such a good kisser.
Baby snuggled closer, lifting her face to his. "I'm glad," she said truthfully, "Kiss me again, please."
Race drew in a ragged breath, "Oh, no. If I'se kiss ya again, one t'ing will lead ta annuda, and dis ain't da proper place fo' dat sorta t'ing."
"Den take me ta a place dat is," she pleaded. He hesitated, and she continued, " I'se know exactly whad I'se doing, Race. And it ain't cuz I'se jealous a you'se and Mysty. Dis...dis shoulda happened between us a long time ago."
Race inhaled, and then ran a hand through her hair, savoring the touch as he did so. He hadn't been able to touch her hair in so long...he cleared his throat. "Well, den. Come wid me." He led her back to the Lodging House, and into one of the empty rooms, still kissing her. In the background, the game was still going on, but the noises faded as they both sank into eternal bliss.
~*~
Mush and Enchanted were laying on Mysty's bunk bed. Somehow, they hadn't gotten any further than kisses, but that was only because Enchanted had stopped herself from literally throwing herself on him.
He kissed her cheek, still basking in the happiness she brought him. Enchanted giggled and wondered why she had been so mad in the first place. Mush was all hers to hold forever. Still...sighing she got up, and pushed Mush away. "I gotta go, Mush. I have to talk to Spot. Gotta talk to him about the whole argument thing that happened in there," she explained. Mush pouted.
"Aw right," he agreed.
"Wanna come along?" she asked, her eyebrows raised.
"No, I'll t'ink I'll stay heah," he murmured. "Come back soon," he whispered, giving her a quick kiss.
"I won't be able to stay away," she said honestly, before turning away and leaving him still lying on the bed.
~*~
Spot traced his fingers on the back of Mysty's neck, smiling slightly. She was great. She had just given him the best night of his life, and his love for her deepened.
Mysty tucked herself into the curve of his arm and then rested her head on his bare chest. "You're trembling," she observed.
"I'se only tired," he explained. She knew he was lying.
"Spot? What do we have now?" she asked, her eyebrows knitting together in a frown. "Is it love?"
"Mysty!" he cried.
"What?" she snapped. She hoped he wasn't at all like Race, who was afraid of being loved.
"Don't say dat. It don't seem right. It's like I'se takin' advantage a your innocence. A man a me reputation and expertise..." he trailed off.
" 'Takin' advantage of'? And what innocence?" she scoffed.
"You should know how many goils I'se been wid!"
"What has that got to do with anything?!" she snapped.
"Look, Mys, it's easy fo' an experienced man like me ta trick someone into t'inking dat believing she's in love wid me. Da only one who I'se must not 'ave tricked was Enchanted." A short smile flitted across his face, then disappeared as he remembered what had happened earlier.
"Do you love me or not?" she demanded, rising up from his chest and looking him square in the eye.
"Dat is not whad we're talkin' bout," he defiantly answered.
"It's not?!" she asked loudly, ready to go into an argument, "Then what the hell are we talking about?! Sex?!" Without looking down, she knew she had hurt him. But why? Then, she knew the answer. "You're in love with me?" she whispered. He looked away. "Love's wonderful. What's wrong with it?"
When he didn't answer, she knew why. He didn't want to settle down just yet. He wanted her to wait for him so he could have his ample amount of different girls each month. Well, she wouldn't do it. Mysty indignantly stood up, letting the sheet fall from her body.
"If you can't accept the fact that we're in love, then I don't want to talk to you. Go find someone else to be your play toy," she said harshly, pulling on her clothes. She stalked over to the window and opened it, slamming it down hard behind her.
Spot buried his head in his arms, cursing himself.
~*~
Baby and Race lay side by side, smiles lingering on their faces. The poker game was dying out, but the euphoria was that surround them wasn't. It had been about an hour, but they hadn't quit until they were truly exhausted.
Slowly, he turned towards her, and then his eyes widened. "Jesus!" he cursed, "Whad about Mysty?"
"Does she matta any longer?" she asked, rolling her eyes.
Slowly, he shook his head. "I'se guess not." After a few moments of lying there and just luxuriating in the after-glow, Race looked at Baby and started fiddling with her hair. "Damn, you'se beautiful," he whispered sincerely.
Baby smiled proudly and then took a deep breath. "You'se still haven't told me if you'se loved me or not."
Race looked away and focused his eyes on the dirty, gray wall. "Does dat matta any longer?" he quoted what she said.
"Yes, it does, Racetrack."
He shook his head. "Baby, I'se can't say anythin' until you'se can prove ta me dat you'se do love me fo' real. Dat dis would be fo'evah."
"I'm tellin' you'se right now, Race!" she shouted. Instantly, the Bunk Room quieted down, and Baby could imagine all of them looking at each other in confusion. "Fuck you'se, Race," she growled, and got up from the bed, snatching up her clothes. Race struggled to get up after her. Quickly getting dressed, she turned to get out of the room, and then spun around again. "I'se do love you, Racetrack. And dis should prove it." She dug into her pocket and drew out a dirty, decrepit, old cigar. She threw it to him, and he fumbled, catching it. Baby turned on her heel and opened the door to let momentarily let in light.
As the door closed, shutting out the luminescence, Race realized what the object he held in his hand was. It was the cigar Baby had stolen from him so many months ago. Clenching his fingers over it, he let the tears fall.
~*~
Enchanted picked up her pace. She was now off the Brooklyn Bridge, but all through the whole crossing, she had heard footsteps, ever persistent, and they did not stop. She risked a glance over her shoulder from time to time, but each time she did, all she saw were shadows and darkness. Her hand went to her back pocket, where the slingshot Spot had given her was resting safely. She wished Sling were here. Sling could have driven him away easily. Hell, she wished Mush were here to protect her.
Nearing the Lodging House, she started jogging. She counted off the blocks as she came nearer. If she could just go one more block, then she would be safe...suddenly, she was seized from behind.
The man had been following her since she had stepped out of the Lodging House. He was angry that his first victim he didn't get to do anything with. He preferred blondes over any other girl. But this girl was pretty too. He pressed his lips to her cheek, inhaling her sweet scent
"Holy fucking---" she said and then started struggling. It was an unfair fight. He was in his early 30's and much more muscular than a 16 year old girl. Throwing her against the brick wall of the alley, he lay on top of her. She started screaming, but he slapped her, cautioning her to keep quiet. Blood from the corner of her lips trickled down her chin. He gripped her arms tightly to hold her down and then ripped the gray shirt she was wearing off. He pinched her and she screamed in agony. After a few minutes, he could stand it no longer and then ripped off her black pants and panties off.
She whimpered at the pain of his entrance, her virginity seared and gone forever. Endlessly it went and now, she was drifting in between unconsciousness and awareness of everything he was doing. By the lamplight, the last thing she saw was his ugly, deranged smile.
He pulled out of her just as he climaxed and then hurriedly searched her ripped pants for money. He stuffed the five dollars he found in his pocket and pulled on his clothes. Blowing her a kiss, he laughed derisively, leaving her beaten and bruised body behind.
