SO's:

Miracle: Good to hear from youhow ya been? Good? Great. Don't worry, you're comin up soon (with Spot secured at your side) Tell him happy birthday for me, will ya?

Rubix the cube: From the NML right?! Yeanow I have someone to SO to when I post my next TOC!

Dakki, I'm shocked and appalled by your review. Mary-Sue, you said it was Mary-sueish! Do you see these tears? I'm wiping at my eyesbah, you're right. But what's wrong with a good ol servin of Mary Sues every once and awhile. There's a background story, there's action..*steps onto soap box* I'm calling for all other writers to break this 'Mary-Sue' labeling! And join me in saying that Mary-Sue's are cool!

"Cheep"

Dammit, just read thet story please and don't be too harsh.


Book One:

Chapter 6

As they got closer into town the number of wagons on the single road gathered, slowing the pace to a crawl. Annabelle, sitting in the bed, swung her legs out of boredom. The other boys had left earlier, lying about helping set up when Annabelle knew that all the boys went earlier to sneak a couple of Pete O'Grady's cigars as he set up his stall. So she was stuck with the rest of the family, the absence of her brother, Jack and Race only allowing her mother to keep a closer eye on every move she made. After only a few seconds of swinging she promptly received a scolding from the woman. They were in the center of town now so Annabelle did not argue. Instead, she searched the crowd, waving enthusiastically when she spotted her friend April. She hoped off the back of the wagon and expected to slip off easily until she heard her mother's ever present voice.

"Annabelle! Where are—" Her mother was interrupted swiftly by her father.

He raised his free hand, the reins to the wagon in the other, and waved her off. "Be by the main stage at dark. I still have that first dance!"

Annabelle chuckled to herself, delighted that her father had remembered they're little tradition even when they'd been having troubles in other areas of their relationship. She met up with April and the two girls embraced quickly.

"Your mother is a riot!" April giggled, pointing to where the Mooring family wagon was disappearing into the crowd. From where the two girls stood they could see Mrs. Mooring, obviously frustrated, swinging her little handbag against a hysterical Mr. Mooring. "Why was she so upset?"

"Oh, just wait until you hear" Annabelle began, linking her friend's arm and beginning into the maze of vendors set up for the day's events. They poked at every free tidbit of food while Annabelle recalled the crazy events of the last three weeks. April shrieked and laughed at all the right parts, reminding Annabelle exactly why she loved her best friend so much.

"Isn't that ridiculous? John Hanks!" April shrugged, fishing for the last scoop of ice cream.
"April!"

Her friend laughed, stumbling after Annabelle nudged her roughly. "He is handsome Annabelle and who am I to turn down a handsome man. If he showed me the attention he shows you"

"You'd sock him in the face!" Annabelle cried, flopping next to Mr. Hickleby's cock fighting ring. On top of the bales of hay she picked at a stray piece, slipping it into her mouth as she's seen some of the men do at the track. "I wish I were a boy"

"Don't say that!"

"Oh, what's the advantage of being female? Babies, baking and boredom." She shifted onto her stomach, looming over April who had settled on the grass below. "You know where I want to goNew York City."

Before April could tease, Melody Bride tumbled in front of the two, pulling on their arms. "You won't believe it. There's a new boy in town and he's the dreamiest" Now stumbling after Melody, Annabelle was more surprised by the force with which the tiny girl had dragged her from the seat to notice where they were heading.

"Okay, who are we lookin' at?" April teased, clapping her hands together. The three huddle into a semi circle, peering around the tent that housed the show horses. A group of boys were watching from the outside, making ruckus and comments as usual. It took only a moment for Annabelle to recognize some of those voices and she waited for Melody to point out Jack as the 'dreamiest' boy present. He was lazing against one of the horses' pen, comfortable enough around the animals now so as not to jump when the mare nudged the side of his face in an attempt to grabbed the apple he was eating. He laughed at the animal, tossing her the rest of the half and flashing one of his boyish grins.

"The one to the right, brown hat"April and Annabelle redirected their gaze. "He walked by me earlier, called me a 'doll'can ya believe it!"

Annabelle burst into laughter when she realized Melody was gushing over Race of all people. While Melody looked at her in surprise, April took the initiative, dragging her friends over to the group.

Their approach was less than discreet and the boys turned to attention at their arrival. Melody popped up in front of Race, offering her hand. "I'm Melody." He shook it with pleasure, an easy smile falling onto his lips as the rest of the crowd shared a teasing laugh. "Where ya stayin'?" She asked, batting pretty eyes in his direction.

"With the Mooring's." Race replied, evidently as interested in Melody as she was with him.
She clapped a hand onto his arm. "Oh wonderful! Then you should all come and watch the fireworks tonight." She turned towards Annabelle, "doesn't our land have the best view!"

Before Annabelle could agree, April nudged Roz quickly. "Aren't ya gonna introduce us, Roz?" She asked, sliding up to her off and on again beau.

He blew a ring of smoke from his mouth, throwing an arm around the girl's shoulders. "This hears Jack Kelly and Racetrack Higgins. They're up from New York City with our grandfather." The boys nodded 'hello' as April waggled her fingers. "This is April and Melody, of course you know Annabelle."

Annabelle turned at her name, wandering with backwards steps over towards Jack. Bumping into the pen, she clicked her tongue to get the attention of both him and the mare. He bent forward just as the horse turned round, taking in the appearance of her curls and summer dress, the pale pink of her skin contrasting with the green of her dress. Just as he was about to ask why they hadn't entered Macy in the show horse contest, April felt the need to comment.

"Ah, New York City. Now I see"

"See what?" Roz shifted his position, still leaning against the fence but now spooning April at his side.

Annabelle narrowed her gaze, now from atop the fence, daring her friend to tell her secret. "Nothin'." April finally shrugged, to the curiosity of all boys present. "I'm just thinking of heading down to the City."

"Oh yea?" Roz chuckled, poking at April's side so that she jumped away. "You in the cityI'd like to see that."

"Yea!" She swung at him with the sweater she'd been carrying as Roz, Piper and some of the other country boys cackled with laughter.

"Whys that so funny?" Annabelle asked, slightly insulted. She teetered on the fence, steadying herself by placing her hands beside her. When her left hand landed on Jack's arm she quickly moved it, blushing harder when he placed an arm behind her to help her balance.

Roz kicked at the dry dirt, discarding of his cigarette and intent on stealing April for the dancing that was soon to start. "You and April, you'se as country as it gets. The city would eat you alive"

Before Annabelle could protest, her brother darted after April, the rest of the group filtering towards the music that had started in the town center. She was so frustrated that she didn't even notice Jack's extended hand until she'd jumped to the ground. He quickly stuffed it in his pocket, rocking back and forth on his heels as she fumed at the empty space her brother had been.

"So, what do ya say?" Piper said for the first time. He started after his friend. "I'se got the first dance with Roxie Hart and I ain't missing it on account of Annabelle's pouting." That caused the group to laugh and all soon followed, Melody seeming to have found a partner in Race.

Jack walked next to Annabelle, hands still in his pocket. Her hands on the other hand were tugging at her skirts and he laughed, stopping her from doing so. "Your mother will have a hissy." He whispered.

Annabelle raised her lip in distaste. "My mother has a constant hissy." She said in a stage whisper, playing as if she were sharing a most intimate secret with him. The two laughed and bumped each other lightly and noticing the close intimacy of Roz and April only a few yards ahead, Annabelle decided not to jump away. Jack hung his head, sharing a secret successful smile with himself as Annabelle bumped him again, this time playfully.

"So, what's with these fireworks?" He asked, looking around as they joined the crowd heading towards the main stage.

"Happens every year at the fair. And Melody's right. Her Pa's got land right across from where they launch 'em. Looking at 'em its almost as if you're the same height." She smiled as Jack bumped into an elderly woman, apologizing and gripping her elbow until she assured him she was okay. He turned back to Annabelle, embarrassed but confident enough to cock an eyebrow at her expression.

"What?"

She shook her head but he pressed her to explain what even her heart didn't really understand. In an attempt to avoid his penetrating eyes she gazed behind him and quickly caught sight of John Hanks, making his way through the crowd with her face in mind. "Oh no," She stepped closer to Jack, resting her head against his chest and gripping his suspenders in an attempt to hide behind him.

In surprise, Jack's arm's went out to the side, as if touching Annabelle burnt his skin, and he looked around to see if Mr. Mooring was watching them. As Annabelle continued to mutter under his breath, Jack made sure the coast was clear before bending his head and asking her what was wrong.

Her head fell back, almost clipping his chin, so that they were face to face. "We need to get outta here." She whispered, still gripping his shirt and tugging him through the mass of people. Her body was turned towards his and only naturally Jack's arm fell around her waist."

"What's wrong? Is something wrong?" Jack asked, craning his head to look behind him, half expecting to see the bulls all the way from New York pushing after the two of them. But he saw nothing that would lead Annabelle to become so upset and confused he stopped her abruptly. "Annabelle, tell me, what's wrong?"

It would have been easy to ignore him, lose him in the crowd and disappear behind the rows of carriages if he hadn't bent to her level, held such a commanding gaze and gripped her by the shoulders, nice and lightly. She swallowed. "Okay, look, Jack." She placed her hands on top of his forearms, slightly distracted by their warmth. "I'm fine, I just need to get away from someone."

"Oh"

"Yea, so that's why I'm slinking"

"Who?" Jack's interruption surprised her and she fumbled for her words. Was telling him about John and their potential relationship wise? She couldn't come up with a better excuse and seeing his patient waiting only distracted her more.

"Um" She bent her head against him shoulder again, hiding her face as she described John's appearance. "See 'im?"

Jack was silent for a moment and even without looking at him she could tell he was still staring behind them, his body twisted slightly, arm still around her shoulders. "Yea." He pushed her further now, hands on her shoulders like in the choo-choo game she'd played as a child. She didn't look behind them, trusting that Jack would get them far enough away. They burst from the group right by the tent entrance, slipping outside the red and white striped plastic and making their way to behind the stage. She caught April's eye on the way, any verbal communication unnecessary. Her friend could, and would, make up a quick white lie if John Hanks happened to ask for her.

They settled into the grass, Annabelle immediately grasping a nearby dandelion to distract herself from the awkward situation. Jack cleared his throat. "So, you're not too keen on this Hanks fellow, huh?"

She laughed, picking off petals. "No, but Mama doesn't really seem to care. His mother makes the best pies in the whole tri-county area, his father is a nice man, and that makes the family good enough for reckless Annabelle." Her tone was one of forced sarcasm and looking up at Jack's reaction, she couldn't continue the charade.

He cleared his throat, rubbing nervously at the back of his neck. "I don't understand ityou're, you're still so young."

"I'm almost eighteen! That's only one year younger than you and Roz" she countered, not understanding his sentiments until she noticed the flush on his face. They sat in silence a moment longer until Annabelle discarded her now topless flower. "What's it like in the city? Do girlsI mean, is it the same as up here? Hit eighteen and ship 'em off to marry"

He shrugged, kicking his legs out in front of him. She found his scuffed shoes endearing. "I can't really saymost of the goils I hang around aren't the marryin' type." Her eyes widened in surprise, and her realized how his words had twisted. "No! Nowhat I mean is dat most of da newsies, da newsie goils—well, dey aren't into marriage persay." He fumbled a recovery, glad to see a smile return to her face. It grew larger until she was laughing out loud, causing him to join in also.

"I feel the same way." She sighed.

Jack nudged her shoulder. "Well, see, that's proof. You shoudda been a city goil."

It was the first attempt he'd made at flirting, or the first obvious one that Annabelle had noticed. She thought of the idea, wondered if he'd press it further and when he didn't, concluded herself. "I'd miss certain things. Like the sun, and fresh air, and, and"

"Horse riding."

They laughed. "Yes! Definitely horse racing. Although, with the way my days seem to be heading I won't be able to ride even in the country."

"Honestly, the city ain't that much better. You'd have to wear all dese fancy dresses, and hats," he spoke with his hands, revolving them around his head to demonstrate the monstrosities some woman wore every day. "and fold your hands, ya know, be proper." Her fumbled with his own fingers before adding, in a slightly lower voice, "It's not like we couldbe friends."

Annabelle shook her head, "Is there no place." Her hands slapped her thighs before falling back on her elbows, legs now extended next to his. They both watched her feet, bare and starting to brown from the dirt. They knocked together in idleness.

He followed those bare toes, up her legs to her skirts, settling on her face and the hair that curled every which way around it. He knew a place where she could walk barefoot everyday, ride horseback with the best of them, earn a living not by marrying well but by working hard. He was about to lean over and whisper the place, those two little words, when a hard banjo interrupted them both.

She jumped up in surprise, hand against her chest to calm her racing heart. A moment later she laughed at her silly reaction, offering him a hand so that he could stand also. "C'mon. The dancing is starting. Do you know how to dance?"

He played along, enjoying her efforts in dragging him towards the dance floor. "I do what I can." He replied. "Although I'm not sure if they're the same steps up here."

They stopped at the edge of the crowd, Annabelle on her toes to see where he father waited. She spotted him on the other side of the dance floor and waved. "I've been promised for the first dance." She motioned over to her father so that Jack didn't get the wrong impression. "But after that, I'll come and teach you."

"Better hope I don't already have a partner." He teased her retreating form. It made her turn in concern, that is until she spotted the sly turn of his lips.

As she toured the dance floor with her father, she watched Jack in the wings. He worked his way up to Race and Melody, listening as Melody explained the steps. She waved at one point, jumping up from behind her father's form and glad to see that he promptly responded as enthusiastically as she had.

"Hey," her father teased, spinning her so that her back faced Jack. "You're dancin' with me missy!" Only a moment later they rounded to the other side of the dance floor and there Jack was again, grinning at her still. To continue her father's teasing she waved for a second time, trying to call to him over the music. Jack, Race, and Melody laughed at the pair's antics as Mr. Mooring dipped her at the end of the song, Annabelle's free hand resting on her forehead in a mock faint.

She jumped slightly in the air as her father righted her. Her kissed her forehead, noticing the excitement in her roving eyes. "Am I too late for a second dance?" He tickled her sides as she nodded. "Well, your mother will be happy, dancing with a man of your age. Each year she scolds me for not sharing you with the other lads."

Annabelle rolled her eyes, smirking at Jack from over her father's shoulder. She was just about to kiss her father good-bye when he pointed in the opposite direction. "John is coming over now." Her eyes widened and she turned to see John pushing his way through the crowd, a cigar quickly discarded from his lips.

"Oh no! Pa I didn't" She shook her head, confusing her father.

"Why child," He held her shoulders, trying to stop her feet from sprinting away. "What's the matter? I thought you meant John. You're mother has been telling me that you two, well" He trailed off in embarrassment, not ready to mention such womanly things in front of his favorite daughter.

She glanced back to find John stalled for a moment by his over-bearing mother, fussing with his collar. Apparently she'd been the only one not to be informed of their dance. "Pa I'm not to marry John Hanks. You know that! Rose knows that! If you just" Her frustration caused her to stumbled over her words and in desperation she looked to Jack for comfort.

From his creased brow he too had noticed John making his way towards her. In a moment the second song would start, Race and Melody already situating themselves on the dance floor with the other couples. Jack stepped forward also, his arms open in offering so that all Annabelle had to do was duck around her father and into the second dance.

She looked her father right in his eyes, hoping that he could read the unhappiness they held. They flickered to Jack a moment later and she nodded, letting him know that she'd escape at the exact moment the music started. Her father noticed this too and as a small smile spread across his lips he secured a lock of hair behind her ear. "You're right. Rose did mention another to me." He turned to face Jack, the boy straightening suddenly under Mr. Mooring's gaze. "And you know I'd honor any other choice you made. Just this time" He shook his head, watching as Annabelle's shoulders fell, "Child, you can't expect, it just isn'tYou must trust your mother's judgment."

With the start of the guitar, Annabelle darted from her father's grasp as if he'd pushed her away. And in a way he had, uttering those last six words to her heart's dread. She skimmed under John Hanks' outstretched hand, that smug smile falling from his lips as she was swept up in Jack's arms and lost in the dance. As they moved through the fellow dancers she spotted the two men, her father and John, facing each other awkwardly in the center of the dance floor. Her father was starting at him hard while John squirmed. She closed her eyes and rested her forehead against Jack's chin, whispering a prayer to Mary that he'd see the young man through her eyes.

Jack noticed her discomfort, this much was obvious as his hands spanned her back. He pressed her with a boyish smile of his, not giving up until she conceded, smacking his shoulder as he spun her again. He was an excellent dancer, easily adjusting to Annabelle's more free thinking feet; the perfect remedy for a night that could have ended horrendously.

So for the rest of the night she kept her hand within his, ignoring her mother and Mrs. Hanks as they gossiped in the corner, John Hanks pouting like the spoiled child he was, and the grave expression on her father's face as he watched the two from his seat. With this plan she was able to have a wonderful time, joking and laughing with the others her age. April and Roz were as attached as her and Jack and even Piper had managed to hold Roxie Hart for more than that first dance. They were a raucous bunch, stumbling around the Bride property, guided by the moon. Jack and Annabelle were the first to arrive at the desired spot, leaning against each other and trying to catch their breath as the first firework exploded.

Annabelle bent her head back, this dazzling array of red, white and blue reaching further in the sky than she'd every seen. But tilting her body so caused her to loose her balance and as she stumbled to catch her steps, Jack reached for her. She laughed as the other arrived, clutching to him now with her own hands and resting against him even after her feet had been firmly settled.

"Jesus, my feet are killing." April whined, settling on the ground. A moment later she tugged Roz to her side causing the group to break into another round of laughter.

Annabelle held her side as she sat also, following Jack to lean up against a rock of some kind. "My stomach" she tried to explain. "My stomach is killing me. No more laughing. Please!" As soon as she spoke the words, her brother reached over and began to tickle her sides. She squealed with laughter, simultaneously batting at his hands and trying to hide behind Jack. April also got involved, holding Roz back until the two pairs tumbled apart. Annabelle crawled over to the other side of Jack, tucking in next to him as April attracted all of Roz's attention now that she was laying on top of him.

"Look at those two" Jack chuckled. "He ain't gonnaboy, he's having quite a night."

"Cloud nine." Annabelle muttered good-naturedly. "Although, he better make sure mama don't see 'em. That behavior is inappropriate!" She adopted her mother's voice, even going so far as to gesture with her pointer finger as her mother did. "And will result in a quick trip down the aisle."

After a brief amount of laughter the two settled, Annabelle realizing how tired she was. Her head lulled onto Jack's shoulder and she felt, rather than heard, his sigh. "You remember what you said earlier, about the city."

"I said a couple things." Was his reply.

She twisted to her shins, sitting on her feet and facing him, her hands resting on his closest arm. "About me going to the city. About having to be all proper."

"Sure."

"Well, what if I didn't have to do all that stuff. What if I sold papers like you or helped my grandfather at the Lodging House. I could do that, couldn't I?"

Jack sat to attention, the excitement swimming in annabelle's eyes the same energy that appeared whenever she mounted Macy. He ran a hand through his hair. "Well, of course. Some goils sell papes but youyou wouldn't want to do that."

"Why not? If it meant no rules and that I was with you and Race, why wouldn't I want to do that?" She slipped a hand into his, fumbling with his fingers and getting the better of his emotions. He looked up at her, holding her gaze and trying to straighten out his thoughts. Initially his response was 'no way!' As much as he loved the idea of he and Annabelle exploring the city together he didn't want to pull her away from the comfortable life she had at home. It was a matter of her safety, of keeping her that spirit of hers clean. The city would taint her. But then he realized that what lay ahead of her was as painful as the city. An unhappy marriage, restrictions on that very same spirit. At least in the city he'd be able to protect her, along with her grandfather. With the right precautions taken, it would work. And she read this change in his face, leaning closer to him and squeezing his hand with both of her own. "See!" she whispered, jumping to her feet and pulling him with her. "It would work. That's where I'll go. And you'll show me around, won't you?"

"Why, yes." He said as soft.

"And introduce me to everyone, all your friends?" He simply nodded this time, her words beginning to blend into the background. "Teach me how to sell, how to get around." Her laugh tickled him and as she let her head fall forward with laughter, a curl sprung from her hair, brushing against his cheek.

"Of course," He mumbled.

She picked up her head as he spoke, smiling easily and bouncing from foot to foot. "And I'll stay with you, right? And grandfather? We'll see Race and, and go to the track." They laughed and she couldn't help her fingers from reaching out and touching his face. "Jack," she whispered, "is that how it'll be? We'll"

Instead of answering her with a less than satisfying 'yes' he caught her lips with his own and she relaxed against him. She'd always worried that her first kiss would be awkward and stiff, or that she'd do something wrong, fumble through what was supposed to be natural. And everything started out as she'd prayed it would, with Jack's thumbs tucked right behind her ears as the rest of his palm spanned down her jaw, holding her face just right. She didn't need to think and soon her hands were finding their own way up his chest to the nape of his neck. They would have settled there, finishing that perfect kiss, when her mother's voice interrupted them both.

"Sweet Jesus!" The two jumped apart, Annabelle's hand covering her mouth as her eyes spotted her mother, Mrs. Hanks and John. Jack stepped in front of her a moment later, trying to explain and from behind him she noticed her father standing towards the back. He held her eye, sadness mirroring her own and she tried to ask him silently whether his disappointment was directed towards her actions, or his own. At last she let her eyes fall to the ground until she could collect herself.

"Annabelle, come over here this instant!" Her mother cried but she stood firmly at Jack's side. As she turned on Mrs. Hanks, her arm looped through Jack's, hanging limply at his side. Mrs. Hanks huffed in shock before turning towards her son. Before they left Mrs. Hanks pointed that prim tense mouth at Mrs. Mooring one last time, pushing John in front of her as they returned to their carriage.

Silence fell among the group until the Hanks were gone, Mr. Mooring nodding a polite good-bye and then walking the few steps to next to his wife. "Children," he whispered, speaking for his wife who had promptly burst into hysterics. "It's time to go. All of your families are leaving. I suggest you say good-bye and get back to the square."

"Bye Annabelle," April whispered, hugging her friend fiercly. "Come to the store if you need anything." She whispered. Piper, Melody, April and the rest of the teenagers slipped through the trees back to their own homes, conscious not to whisper until they were sure none of the Moorings could hear them.

"Back to the wagon." Mr. Mooring commanded, turning his wife around and motioning for Roz to help the woman. Annabelle turned to Jack, hesitant to let go of his hand. But he forced a reassuring smile and patted her hand before letting it slip from his. She started behind her mother and brother, avoiding her father's gaze as she passed him. Race watched as Jack picked up his hat and placed it on his head before starting down the path. But as they met with Mr. Mooring he stopped them. "Oh no boys." His tone wasn't one of punishment but instead exhausted. "I think it'll be better if you stay in town for the next couple days. Roz's race will be this weekend and after that, you can head back to the city."

Jack raised his head catching Mr. Mooring watching him curiously. He wanted to argue with the man but he respected him too much to question his judgment. "Thank you, sir." He finally mumbled, offering his hand. "Your hospitality will not be forgotten."

Mr. Mooring stared at the hand for a moment before shaking it with a solid hand. "Your welcome, son. I hopewell," he patted Jack on the back instead of finishing his sentence and Jack understood.

"Yes sir."

He just hoped Annabelle did too.



"Bee! Bee! C'mon!" Annabelle glanced up as Letty stumbled in the grass, finally rolling to the ground a few yards away. She laughed at her sister's clumsiness and continued her stroll, her summer hat resting in her hand. Before she could check for any scratches, the little girl was up on her feet again, dragging her towards the house. "You need to hurry!"

"Why?" she asked, playing along anyways.

"Cause Roz has his race today. The boys are leaving and, and"

Annabelle was able to take one step for Letty's two but she slowed the pace significantly when the reason for her speedy return was explained. "Letty, I'm not going. Mama said."

"She also said you have to say good-bye to Grandpa." Letty explained, tugging hard one last time on her sister's hand. They had now rounded to the front of the Webster household, coming up on the Mooring wagon. It was empty at the moment, only her grandfather, Race and Jack's belongings taking up the space that would be full of farm supplies, seed, and food on the return trip. "Mama said that after Roz's race, Grandpa and Race and Jack are going home."

"Yes Letty, I know." She sighed, "Why don't you go give them your hugs now." She nudged her sister ahead, choosing to stay behind in the shade of a near by tree. Her grandfather turned around at the sound of Letty's thundering feet, just in time to scoop her into his arms. From where she stood against the tree, Annabelle heard their familiar laughter.

Jack and Race appeared a moment later, placing some of Macy's things into the wagon and bending to say good-bye to Letty also. They noticed Annabelle over to the side but made no move towards her. Instead Jack stood with Letty on his hip, holding her with one hand while reaching into his pocket with the other. "I need you to keep another secret for me." He whispered, showing her a tiny folded piece of paper. "Can you give this to your sister for me?" Letty nodded, holding the paper in her tiny fingers. "And promise not to tell your Mama. Good." Jack took the paper and slipped it underneath Letty's hat, patting it in place atop her head when he was finished. She laughed, hugging him one last time, skinny arms wrapping around a sunbeaten neck.

"Oh ho! Where's my baby girl?" Jack placed Letty on the ground as soon as her father arrived, smiling with the rest of the group as the girl jumped into his arms. He finished saying his good-bye to Tom and Rose, attempting a handshake with Mrs. Mooring who responded out of courtesy. And as everyone piled into the wagon he hopped up first, patiently waiting for the carriage to leave. His preparedness allowed him to look past the immediate group, towards the trees that lined the drive. He nodded towards their shade, raising a hand quickly.

"Heya Jack, move over would ya?" Race asked, causing his friend to lose sight of the white linen he'd spotted among the green leaves. He sighed and did as his friend asked, the bumpy carriage ride starting a moment later. The family waved and called good-bye as Roz walked beside Macy and the two older men, Kloppman and Mr. Mooring, start silently in the front.

Annabelle peaked from behind the trunk as the carriage passed by, holding back her tears til the point of pain. It was only when they reached the end of the road, about to turn a sharp left, that she sprinted onto the rocky path, both arms up in the air. Tears ran down her face as she waved, breathing shakily. She didn't call, or scream, or shout in any manner. Instead, she hiccupped and waved until they disappeared around the bend.

"Annabelle, inside please." Her mother called, hands clasped in front of her. She obliged, passing her mother without a word and taking the stairs up to her room two at a time. She entered her room and went immediately to the window, half-expecting to see the wagon returning. After waiting and receiving no such miracle, she turned her back to the sunny outdoors, facing the gloomy darkness of an afternoon spent alone. She collapsed into the old rocking chair next to her bed, throwing her hat onto the bed her and Letty shared and picking up the book her grandfather had left her. She ran her fingers along the cover, smelling the musty staleness that she associated with her grandfather and the city. She found the place she'd left off and cracked open the page, sinking the chair and tucking her feet beneath her for an afternoon of reading.

Her mother's footsteps sounded on the stairs but she did not look up until they stopped by her door. "You'll wreck your eyes, reading in this light." She did not stop, continuing her silence when in her mother's presence. She hadn't spoken to the woman since the night of the fair. Her silence was not conducted in a childish way, instead, she hung back from all family gatherings, obeying her mother's wishes but no longer sparkling the family with her chatter. They'd made an agreement that Annabelle had her free roam of the Webster property, as long as she did her chores first, cooking for her family, cleaning what her mother and Rose could not reach but no work at the Webster house. She'd not had much choice besides to agree and her face had grown lines from frowning so. It was at this moment her mother pointed them out to her.

"Come now, you've had your afternoon outdoors." Her mother tidied as she spoke, still unaccustomed to Annabelle's lack of response. She felt the need to speak more, to make up for the one-sided conversation. Taking the discarded hat, she hit Annabelle with it playfully before putting it away. "I didn't realize how much sewing we have to get done, and with my old fingers you're" Mrs. Mooring cleared her throat, her embarrassment around the issue of Annabelle's bride chest only more evidence to the girl that her engagment was a mistake. But somehow, to Mrs. Mooring's greatest delight, Mrs. Hanks had been convinced to reconsider a Mooring daughter-in-law, after a hearty promise that Annabelle had mended her ways.

She smiled at the thought of John Hanks having a bitter wife. That would certainly be a change in her ways. The only smile she planned on bestowing for the rest of her life would be upon her children, for they'd had no choice in the matter.

"Right, we'll sit outside if you like. Better light and your sister can speak to us through the window. You know how much she's hated her confinement; she's as much of an outdoors lover as yourself. But Dr. Patton highly recommended it, what with the babies being so late now."

Discarding the book to her bed, Annabelle stood, content with Rose's conversation and willing to sew her deathbed as long as her mother ceased all chatter. "Excellent!" Her mother clapped her hands and followed Annabelle down the stairs. They gathered the needed material, pins, thread and needles, and settled on the grass outside. "Letty dear!" Mrs. Mooring called, "will you open Rose's window. That way she'll be able to speak with us out in the sun."

Letty skipped off into the room and Annabelle began her first stitch. "Ah! Mama!" The scream from inside startled both women but Annabelle was the quickest, darting inside to the entrance to Rose's room. Letty was crying, looking up to Annabelle for some sort of explanation as Rose sunk to the floor, groaning herself and holding her large stomach as blood and liquid puddle on the floor.

"Oh Rose," Annabelle cooed, helping her sister to the floor. "Letty, run and tell Piper's father to fetch Dr. Patton." She wiped back her sister's damp hair trying her best to comfort her. "Letty go!" Letty jumped to attention, darting out the door just as Mrs. Mooring reached it, shireking in surprise.

"Tommy Tom." Rose moaned pitifully, squeezing Letty's hand fiercly. "Where is Tom"

"He's in town, remember Rose." Annabelle whispered, supporting her sister and trying to bite back her own tears. She looked up at her mother, pleading with her to help in some way. They held each other's gaze and Mrs. Mooring rushed out of the room, returning a moment later with Mrs. Swan.

The older woman cooed soothing words also and with Annabelle's help, returned Rose to the bed. "Has the doctor been sent for?" She asked, checking beneath Rose's dress. Annabelle diverted her gaze and replied. "Good. Now Mrs. Mooring why don't you just come to this side of the bedthat's it. And hold Rose's hand."

Annabelle sat on the opposite side of the bed, grabbing Rose's hand again and speaking with her. "That's it Annabelle." Mrs. Swan said between grabbing fresh linen and towels. "Try and get her breathing steady."

Mrs. Mooring watched her two daughters, surprised with the calmness in Annabelle's smile. "Just think," her daughter whispered. "You're going to be a mommy" Rose laughed, closing her eyes as another wave a pain came. "And I'm going to be an auntie. And—and Tom, he'll be the best dad in the world." She wiped at Rose's temple, dabbing the beads of sweat that were forming.

"Tom—oh Tom!" Rose moaned, tears sprouting from her closed eyes.

Annabelle stayed by her sister's side as Mrs. Swan fussed at the other end of the bed until Dr. Patton arrived. She moved out of the way so her could say hello to Rose, ask her a few questions. Her feet shuffled backwards until she hit the wall, pressing herself up against it as Dr. Patton rolled up his sleeves. He spoke to Mrs. Swan quickly, asking her some terms that Annabelle didn't understand until he placed his hands on Rose's belly. "Hmmyour right Mrs. Swan. Seems as if one of 'em is turned." This news arrived just as another contraction caused Rose to cry in pain. Stunned, Annabelle turned and ran out the door, past her forgotten sewing and towards the woods. She collapsed at few yards away, crying for everything that had happened in the past few weeks, her head in her hands.



"Got a light?" Jack offered the man one of his matches while lighting his own cigarette, inhaling for the first time since leaving the city. Something about smoking in the fresh air of the country just seemed wrong so he'd resisted all those days. But now, surrounded by men of a considerable stench and women defining a new realm of 'dirty' Jack felt no concern for his own cleanliness.

It certainly helped that he was standing next to Piper, who had food all down his chin from whatever he'd bought at the track. He shook his head and motioned on his own chin but Piper did not respond. "No wonder you've never been wit a goil."

Race laughed to attention, turning from his position against the fence to agree with Jack and notice Piper's messy chin. "Jesus, use your sleeve or sometin."

While Piper wiped at his food covered chin, Jack pushed his way up next to Race, hanging his arms over the side of the fence. Mr. Mooring and Kloppman were helping Roz get ready behind the scenes but they were planning on meeting up with the rest of the boys as soon as the riders lined up for entrance.

"When is thing starting?!" Piper cried, placing one hand on each of the boys shoulder to try and boost himself up.

Jack shrugged him off just as a cheer ran through the crowd. They turned their heads in the direction everyone else looked, all three now trying to boost themselves higher in the crowd. Slowly the first rider appeared from in between the two sets of stands, turning to wave to the crowd as the line lengthened behind him.

"So what are we lookin at here, Race?" Jack asked.

"Roz has got a pretty good chance. He's the youngest in the bunch, which can work to his advantage or disadvantage." At that moment Roz appeared, shrinking away from the roar of the crowd to concentrate on the race ahead of him. "The guy who came out first. He won last year. A guy I was talkin' to earlier said that his confidence has made his training a littleweak, I guess you could say. And the other competitors are like Roz, just locals."

Piper and Jack nodded, holding their spots on the fence so that no other fan pushed their way in front. The riders and their horses were lined up at one end of the track and would begin at the shot of the gun. Roz settled his feet into the stirrups, bending his haunches, shaking out his wrists and hands before freezing over Macy's neck in that awkward upside down 'V' shape stance. It reminded Jack suddenly of the first time he'd watched Roz ride, being chased by his sister Annabelle. Macy pranced in her spot, shaking her head and causing Roz to reposition and center himself again.
Jack couldn't help but think that Annabelle's natural connection with Macy, the epitomy of which being her almost hugging way of riding, might make her a better rider. The skill could be taught, Race had proved that, but a natural talent always had the edge.

When the shot sounded the whole stadium jumped, including the jokey's, a moment later kicking their horses to attention. But ahead of them all, having anticipated that resounding jolt all along, was Roz. They'd taught Macy to break first, knowing that her natural instinct for competition would be the fuel needed later in the race. Their section of the fence screamed with cheer and applause, Kloppman and Mr. Mooring having found them, and some of the other men from town having come also. It was so loud Jack couldn't hear his own claps, this cheers blending with the others. He was sure that Roz could hear them on the whole other side of the track.

With half of the race over and Jack's stomach being pressed into the fence railing, only two of the eight riders were challenging Roz for first. They had tucked in behind him but as instructed, Roz slowed his speed, forcing the other two to the outside and allowing Macy to meet her competition head on. That speed they'd expected, exploded the animal, surprising the crowd to more cheers. As Roz round the final turn, coming into the final stretch it seemed as if he had this race won, flowers and all. It obvious in how he buckled his knees, breaking from that unique stance. And the crowd agreed also, throwing trash onto the track and whooping with excitement. Jack didn't even notice the trailing rider until Race slammed his fist onto the rail of the fence, shaking him also. "Dammit Roz, don't stop now!"

But as Race feared Roz would lose the race by a nose, Jack noticed that the rider seemed to have another end in mind. The whip was held in his left hand which was the first clue, most jokey's carried any sort of whip to stir on the horse in their right. Next, he did not stop after the finish line, charging at Roz now that he'd released his tight hold on Macy. The whip spun through the air, landing swiftly on Macy's neck, and sending the horse into a frenzic prance. Roz tumbled from the saddle which would have caused some injury but not as much as when his foot, still wedged in because of his strange haunch, did not release. The boy was dragged behind Macy, finally separating when he collided with the inner track.

The crowd had fallen silent and even with the previous nose echoing in everyone's ears, the crack of the broken bones could be heard.



Annabelle snapped her head up suddenly, whispering a name under her breath as chills ran over her spine. She listened intently as a faint cry drifted out of the window, followed by happy laughter and cheers. But what stuck with her was the name she'd whispered in fear.

Why had she whispered her brother's name?

Cause I've been neglecting this:

Disclaimer: All characters to their respective owners.

AN: So, hopefully this extra long chapter will make up for my lack of posting. But guess what! We're done with Book One! Yup that means the story is movin to NYC, Spot's gunna put in an appearance (along with Miracle!) and Annabelle will...well, you'll just have to read and find out!

Teepot.