A/N: I'm so sorry about the wait for this chapter, guys. I really wanted to have it up before the new year; just didn't happen. Oh well. I hope y'all aren't too mad at me and can enjoy this little epilogue. :)
I didn't realize how short this chapter would be, but it's by far one of my favorites. The boys are just SO adorable, amiright? ;)
Thank you SO SO much to anyone and everyone who has taken the time to read, follow, favorite, and review this story. I love knowing others are enjoying my stories!
One last thing! I have a couple more one-shots on the way (some Race/Jack and more Crutchie/Jack brother awesomeness), but I'm running out of ideas and I want to keep writing! Send me requests/prompts! I'm cool with modern AUs and whatnot, too. Just send those ideas on over!
Whew, long note. XD Without further ado, here y'all go!
"You's not too cold? Sure you're feelin' up to it?"
"Jack." Crutchie shoved the older boy's meddling hands away and fixed him with a look before he continued buttoning up his coat. "I's fine. Missed out sellin' papes too long as it is."
Jack frowned, reaching out as Crutchie stood, just in case he needed to steady the kid. "You sure? If you ain't ready—"
The exasperated boy settled his crutch under his arm and limped toward the door. "I's ready."
"But—"
"Jack." Crutchie came to such a sudden stop that the older newsie nearly plowed into his back. He turned around. "I know...I know you's is worried. I knows I scared you and the fellas."
Jack snorted. "You're tellin' me."
Crutchie's soulful blue eyes searched Jack's face. "But thanks t' you, I'm okay now. My cough's almost gone and I ain't even tired." He put a hand on the other boy's shoulder. "It ain't your fault."
Jack's smile dropped. "Crutchie…"
"No, Jackie. Nothin' you could done to stop it, and you know it."
I could protect you boys better. The bitter thoughts welled up.
And once again, the kid seemed to read Jack's mind. "You do everything you's can, Jack. If it wasn't for you, most o' us'd be still begging on the street...or worse." Crutchie shuddered, a shadow falling across his cheery face for only a moment. "You saved me. So stop beatin' yourself up. Please?" The words tumbled out of the kid's mouth, loving eyes gazing up at his best friend, offering undeserving gratitude.
Dang, Jack loved his kid. He swiped at his face, pretending he didn't have tears welling up in his eyes, and gave Crutchie a gentle shove. "What're ya waitin' for? Let's get a move on!"
The boy grinned and hurried to catch up with the other newsies.
Jack followed at a slower pace. He could hear the boys laughing as they moved down the street, Crutchie in their midst, most of them fully on the mend from whatever sicknesses they'd picked up in the harsh weather.
"Didja' get your coat, Crutchie? You sure you ready?" the other newsies mocked.
"Shuddup, fellas." Crutchie glared playfully.
Race smirked and Jack shook his head. Maybe he was mother-henning a bit too much, but then again, he supposed, that was his job. These boys were nothing short of family, and he vowed to watch out for all of them.
Always.
One last THANK YOU! Drop a review and let me know what you thought of this story! Feedback helps me improve future stories/writing! I love you guys! Keep on carryin' that banner! :D
~Ollie