Hoops arrived just in time to see the kiss. A swift pain, like a knife being thrust in him, came in his chest. He had been all ready to apologize to Ella and ask her to be his girl, but now he knew his pride wouldn't let him.

****

"I have to go to the country for a week or 2," William said after making sure Ella wasn't opposed to the kiss. Ella nodded mutely, thoughts swirling around in her head.

"Come on Ella!" Hoops voice called before William could say anymore.

"I'd better go. I'll see you when you get back," Ella said giving William a brief, but warm hug before turning and walking away with Hoops.

****

"Hey everybody!" Hoops called over the din of the common room later that day. "I have an announcement! I just asked Princess to be my girl and she said yes!"

A heavy, thick silence fell over the room. After awhile the guys said half-hearted congratulations and the girls just left the room without saying a word.

"I can't believe it!" Gale said as she and Ella and Volley sat on her bed talking a little while later.

"I know! I was positive that he liked Ella and I was very sure he didn't like Princess anymore than the rest of us," Volley said.

"Maybe he's had a change of heart," Ella said quietly.

"Did something happen with you two today?" Gale asked, concern etched on her face.

"I think Hoops saw William kiss me today."

"…That explains a lot. He's trying to make you jealous," Gale said confidently.

"Why would I be jealous? Like I told Princess, I am NOT looking for a relationship right now. I need to figure out who I am before I figure out who to spend the rest of my life with," Ella exclaimed. Gale and Volley exchanged skeptical looks before the 3 got up and headed out of the room. Just as they were walking by the guys' room, Matchbox and Flips sprung out and gently pushed them into the room.

"What's going on?" Ella asked looking around at the assembly of guys.

"We've taken a vote and decided it was time you saw the sights of London," Champ said stepping forward.

"And we're the ones to show you," Flips said. The rest of the newsies nodded in agreement.