That night at the fair….
A/N: The real coaster: Cyclone was actually built in the 1920's but, for simplicity's sake, we've made one with the same name, and the FIRST Roller coaster was built sometime in the 1880's.
Chapter 18
As the sun began to set, the sky seemed to be a flame of light and color, Bright orange, blue and purple stretched across the horizon, and the sun turned to a light golden hue. As the sun set lower into the sky, there was a chill in the air, hinting an early autumn.
The Newsies walked down the streets, talking and laughing, their hopes and spirits high. Jack led the way down the street with Cassie, and Spot by his side. Jack turned around to face the Newsies, and, as he walked backwards, he shouted, "What are we gonna do ta da bums if dey start anytin?"
"Soak em!" chorused the Newsies. Smirking, Spot nodded his head abruptly, and cheered the Newsies on; Jack only smiled at the response.
David, quite flabbergasted at this change of plan, jogged to catch up with Jack. "Remember the plan? We can't soak them right away." David grumbled in a low tone.
Jack put an arm around his friend, and replied carelessly "Relax Dave, I'm just gettin dem ready."
"Ready for what? A disaster?" David criticized, taking Jack's wrist and irritability shoving his arm away. Jack momentarily glared at Dave, until Cassie placed her arm around him, starting a new conversation.
Giving up on the argument, David rolled his eyes exasperatingly, and walked in silence.
Star, Notebook, and Tiger trailed behind having their own discussion.
"Is this your first time at a fair?" Tiger asked.
When hearing this, Star and Notebook glanced at each other a ruptured into a fit of giggles.
"What's so funny?" Tiger asked
"It just reminded us of a story from back when we were younger." Star replied
"Yeah, I remember when we weren't aloud to go to the fair that one time, and we…" But before Maddie could finish she burst out laughing, so Star continued telling the story.
"When I was six, and Maddie was five, we decided to pack our bags and move to the fair where we'd be able to live and have never-ending fun, and eat all the candy floss we wanted without mother telling us no." Star laughed reminiscing, all their escapades.
"Did you make it to the fair?" Takoda asked chuckling.
"Unfortunately we got caught before we could even cross the street." Star said nonchalantly shrugging her shoulder.
"There it is!" shouted one of the younger newsboys. With that being said, the Newsies Cheered ecstatically, as they stampeded down the street toward the long line of people waiting to enter the fairgrounds. Spot looked behind him searching for Star, through the cluster of noisy, anxious people.
Spot suddenly felt a soft touch on his left shoulder.
"Looking for someone." Star charmingly taunted.
Spot turned around to see two gleaming orbs of bright brown. He smirked approvingly, and said, "I see my charm rubbed off on ya."
"I only learn from the best. Not!" Star mocked.
Spot rolled his eyes, but before he could retort she suddenly grabbed his hand. As she pulled him he stumbled forward. Star noticed this and quietly giggled before apologizing.
"Sorry" she shouted, so he could hear through the noise.
He glared at her critically.
Spot noticed the inquisitive stares they were getting from some of the newsboys, and stopped her from taking another step.
"Ya need ta calm down. Jus let me do da leadin ok?" Spot said in a low tone averting his gaze from her to his surroundings.
Star eyed him, puzzled by his behavior. Spot ignored her stare, grabbed her hand, and began to drag her along till she forcefully pulled out of his grip. "What's a matter wit you now? Can we jus get in da dam fairgrounds" Spot replied wrathfully.
"What's the matter with me? How about what's the matter with you?" Star questioned, irately. She crossed her arms waiting for an answer.
"Could we jus talk about dis when we get inside?" Spot replied now aggravated, as he glanced around.
"No I want to settle this now, is this about your reputation?" Star questioned as she arched her eyebrow curiously.
Spot exhaled in frustration. He lifted his hat and ran his fingers through his hair before answering. He was concerned about his reputation, and with Queens on his back he couldn't let anything slip.
"Aright, wit Queens on me back everytin I do's gotta be done right, If I screw up or do anytin out of characta it's ova."
"I understand that you have to be cautious, but you don't have to be so miserable about the situation! We're at the fair!" Star retorted.
"Me bein miserable?, How bout you huh? Da last ting I need is you bitchin in me ear all night!" Spot shouted causing heads to turn in the their direction rapidly. He knew he just made the argument worse by saying what he just did, but his temper had gotten the worst of him. Star couldn't believe what she was hearing, after everything they had been through he still seemed to care more about his reputation then anything.
"So this is about your reputation. Is life just an act for you? Are you just an act?" Star shouted. She half-heartedly felt awful for what she had asked, but she was far too angry to negotiate.
An expression crossed his face that Star couldn't guess. It took him a moment to put together what she had asked, but once the question sunk in, he felt crushed for the first time in years. He bowed his head, his eyes downcast and for a moment Star thought of leaving right then and there, by then his head shot up and Star was taken aback by the stone cold emotion in his livid eyes. "Is dat all I am ta ya? An act?" Spot snarled glaring fiercely at Star.
She stood viewing him in a different way, she felt torn away from him, as if he were a stranger. The love he had for her that she always noticed when she looked in his luminous blue eyes was completely shielded with rage. Spot began to grow impatient and he walked closer to her, eyes still staring furiously into her own. His face was now inches from hers. "I asked ya a question." They continued to stare into each other's eyes with a fierce glint of determination, but beneath the shield of fury, there was a hidden ember of love.
They had an eager temptation to kiss each other then and there, but both were too engrossed with pride. After a moment of looking into each other eyes, Star finally answered, "That's for you to decide." With that being said she reluctantly ripped her gaze away, and spun on her heel as she proceeded to the entrance of the fairgrounds.
Spot stood shaking with anger, as he watched her saunter away. He thought about leaving until Queens crossed his mind. "Dey gonna be here tonight, and I aint gonna back down from a fight ova some damn argument, and I aint gonna let me boys down." Spot stared at the fair entrance and, as if a trap had sprung, he began to swiftly move through the crowd, shoving past anyone who was in his way. He finally reached the ticket vendor, and purchased his ticket. Although he had just gotten into a dispute with Star, he couldn't help but wonder if she was alright.
The scenery was stunning: Bright lights shone as laughter rang through the air, carried by the crisp breeze. People were clearly having fun, laughing and talking with friends and family, while some were impatiently waiting in line for the rides. If Star weren't so befuddled she would have been able to enjoy the evening. But thoughts of Spots odd behavior ran through her mind. After a while she shook off the argument "I'm not going to let one stupid quarrel with Spot ruin my evening." After the notion, she found some of the Manhattan newsies and decided to join in the fun.
Spot wandered around, looking for Star. As he walked through the fairgrounds he was greeted by many newsies, some he hardly knew, and some women he passed stood in groups whispering and giggling impishly as they pointed in his direction. However, he was in no mood to stop, and converse. He saw Race shuffling his deck of cards for a new game, of poker. The tables that had been set up in various places were surrounded with unruly men. From here, they could see the many rides and the booths that had been set up. Crowds of people hurried about, as music and noise drifted through the fairgrounds. Race called him over, "Hey! Why don't ya have a seat?" Gesturing toward the seat across from him, Race continued shuffling the deck.
Spot halfheartedly sat down. "Heya Race, Ya seen Star or Jackey-boy anywhere?" Spot asked miserably, as he stared down fidgeting with his cane. Race took an unlit cigar from a pocket and lit it, "Why so glum?" he asked.
Spot's head shot up abruptly, and for a moment he stared at Race with an impatient glower, before bluntly saying, "Jus shut-up and deal da cards."
Race put his hands up in surrender "Okay, okay, I'll deal, jus be prepared ta give ya money up." Race said as he chuckled at his own joke, not caring about the glares being thrown to him from the men at the table.
"Watch it Race." Spot warned, before ordering a beer.
Star, Blink, Mush and his girl were nervously waiting in line to ride the newly built roller coaster called The Cyclone. Star tried her best to enjoy herself, and forget about her argument with Spot, but the shrilling screams of the riders, and the sound of the ridged wooden tracks were nothing but background noises, as recollections of the love she had for Spot consumed her mind. "Are you ready for the ride of your life?" Blink asked, bringing Star back to reality. She averted her glance from Blink to the coaster, and watched the couples experiencing the thrilling ride together. She knew she had to find Spot, she knew that it was just a silly argument that they could easily work out, because their relationship meant so much more. The three waited for an answer but she didn't reply, instead they saw a glazed look in her eyes.
Quite bewildered, Mush asked, "Star? You okay?"
"I gotta find Spot." Came her reply as she turned, and headed in some direction. They exchanged baffled glances, and ran to catch up to her.
"Well ya can't go alone, who knows what Queens is up to." Blink warned, once they reached her side. Hearing this Star's eyes widened in dismay, and she quickened her pace.
"What's going on with Queens?" Asked Mush's girl.
"It's a long story, Mary." Mush said as they held hands, and followed.
They were halfway through the game, and there was a crowd of newsboys and girls watching intently, Spot had been losing pretty badly, and was beginning to feel slightly intoxicated. An attractive girl with lustful green eyes and blonde curls, managed to steal a seat on Spot's lap, but still no matter how many beers he drank, or cigars he smoked, he couldn't keep his mind off Star. Did she really think he was an act? Was he an act?
There in the distance he noticed Star quickly walking by with Blink, Mush, and Mary. His eyes followed her, and he saw that she hadn't noticed him yet.
A sudden worry filled him. "If anytin happens to her tonight I won't be able ta forgive meself, especially knowin dat I coulda been dere ta do sumtin about it." There was no way he'd let her get away tonight, especially now, when they needed each other the most. He swiftly stood up slamming down his beer mug, and hastily pushed the girl of his lap.
"Spot, where you going?" whined the girl.
"I need to talk to Star." He replied firmly.
Race stared at Spot incredulously, as a cigar dangled from his mouth. "Whatsa matta wit you? Ya can't jus leave half way trough a game!" Race shouted, as he threw his arms up in frustration.
"I'll do whateva da hell I want wheneva I feel like it Race." Spot shouted, as he jogged to catch up with Star.
He noticed the four from behind in the distance, and pushed through the people, trying not to lose them in the crowd. A jolly clown walked in front of Spot, carrying a cluster of multicolored balloons, which blocked his entire view. To make matters worse, a group of children ran towards the clown reaching for balloons and as Spot tried not to knock them over, he looked around for Star.
He managed to get through all the excitement, but unfortunately, he had lost her. "Shit." Spot muttered. He continued to search for her, glancing around he finally found her by the Ferris wheel, talking to Notebook. A relieved expression crossed his face, once he realized she was still safe. Although from the distance he could tell she was worried. He quickly trotted towards her.
" I've been searching for him all night, I hope he's all right." Star replied warily.
"I'm sure he's perfectly fine, perhaps he could be looking for you right now." Notebook replied nodding.
"Ya aright, not after the things I said to him, it just bothers me so much when he can't be himself, I just want to have fun tonight but he seems so edgy." Star replied exasperatingly.
"He's just looking out for you." Notebook proposed.
"I know, and that's perfectly fine, but we can still enjoy ourselves till the dilemma happens." Star affirmed.
"Well why don't you stop looking for a while, if he loves you he'll come back." Notebook uttered.
"Then he ought to come ba—". She was then interrupted when Spot unexpectedly grabbed her wrist causing her to whirl around in fright.
"I need ta talk ta ya." was all he said. Then he hastily pulled her in another direction. Star was quite bemused at his sudden aggression, and tried to pull away, but his forceful grip was much too strong. "Spot! Would you just stop and listen instead of pulling me like a…" Before she could say anything else he abruptly spun her around to face him, and took her head in his hands and kissed her so hard, it hurt.
She could smell the heavy aroma of beer and smoke in his breath. She wanted to scream and push him away, but the other half of her wanted time to stand still. When their lips unlocked the first thing he said to her was, "Dat aint actin."
Star contemplated. She remembered what Notebook had said about him truly loving her if he came back, and couldn't help but laugh at his comment. Seeing that he made her smile, he smirked in satisfaction. "I'm glad you came back," Star said smiling.
"I realized dat some damn argument aint worth riskin your life ova, besides I aint one to back down from a fight." Spot said smirking confidently.
"Well that's an exceptional explanation." Star teased, as she broke into a beaming grin.
He chuckled, and took her hand in his own. Their fingers entwined fitting perfectly, and together they walked back to the others. Star smiled widely, looking up at Spot she said "I'm glad I found you, I've been looking for you too. What have you been doing anyway?" Star questioned remembering the scent of his breath.
"Playin poker wit Race." Spot simply answered.
"That explains your pleasant aroma." Star replied sarcastically. Spot stared down at her critically, with raised eyebrows and pursed lips.
Star laughed at his expression, and playfully nudged him in the ribs. "I'm just stating the obvious, it doesn't matter though, let's just enjoy the night." Star said smiling, and placing an engaging kiss on his lips.
He stared at her skeptically, and smirked "Ya lucky ya so damn sweet." He said. She grinned, and they continued to walk toward the others.
"Where ya been?" "We'se been looking all ova for ya." Jack said to Spot once he was within earshot.
"Dey been chasin eachadda all ova da place." Mush said, chuckling.
"I'm not surprised." David muttered.
"Did ya say sumtin, Mout?" Spot questioned mockingly.
David sneered, as he shook his head disbelievingly.
"What do you all say we head for Cyclone now?" Star suggested. Everyone agreed, except for Notebook who replied, "I think I'll pass on this one."
Tiger took Notebook's hand, and squeezed it comfortingly, "We'll be on the Ferris wheel." he said, glancing at Notebook who looked relieved.
"Come on, it'll be fun!" Boots encouraged.
"Yea, ye gotta live a little, Notebook!" Mush shouted.
"Come on!" others replied.
No matter how hard they tried, they couldn't get Notebook to change her mind. Notebook smiled shyly, "You go ahead. I'm not a big fan anyway." Others shrugged while some of the younger newsies grumbled. They all began walking to the coaster, Star and Spot among them.
"Thanks for staying." Notebook whispered, smiling.
Tiger only grinned, "You'd have been on your own, otherwise."
Hand-in-hand the two headed down to the large Ferris wheel that towered above them, at almost forty-two feet, and shone with many, little white lights. The sight made Notebook giddy and she grinned despite herself. "It's like a beautiful dream, one I'd never want to wake from," she thought, adding, "Only better. Much, much better."
Star, Spot, Jack, and Cassie walked with the rest of the newsies to the Cyclone. Some newsies ran ahead to get in line, but most stayed in the group. "Hey Spot! You ready for dis?" Jack called from the line up ahead, as Star and Spot walked towards him.
"More ready den you are Jackey-boy." Spot taunted.
"Oh ya? We'll see." Jack dared.
"Listen ta da two a ya! I bet by da time we get on dis coasta you two will be screamin like lil goils." Cassie teased. All the Newsies except Spot and Jack broke into a boisterous fit of hilarity.
"Ya say dat know but once dis ting starts ya gonna be grabbin on ta me for ya dear life." Jack smugly replied as he placed his arm around Cassie.
The newsies listened intently to see what Cassie would say next.
"In ya dreams, Jack." Cassie mocked as she pushed Jack's arm off of her.
"Ooohh, dats gotta hurt." Some Newsies replied almost simultaneously.
"Jackey got told!" Mush shouted.
Jack placed his hand on his heart, and dramatically replied. "Ya fractured me fragile heart."
"Ya know I'm kiddin wit ya." Cassie replied as she placed her arms around him in a warm embrace.
"Aint dat sweet!" shouted a Newsie, as the line moved closer to the coaster.
"Ya, ya keep da line movin, I aint got all night." Spot shouted teasingly, tarnishing the moment. Jack, and Cassie glared at him, and Spot dared them to say more.
"What's the hurry?" Star asked.
"I just can't wait ta see ya reaction once da ride gets goin." Spot replied, blue eyes dancing with mischief.
"Next four people please!" shouted the ride attendant.
"Well here's your chance." Star replied smirking. Jack, Cassie, Spot and Star proceeded to their seats, Star hands began to sweat, and butterflies whirled in her stomach. It was her first time on a roller coaster, and she had no idea what to expect. They pulled down the safety bar, and the coaster began to slowly climb a hill. Spot protectively wrapped his arm around Star, and he could feel her tenseness. "Ya noivous?" Spot asked his voice deep, and low as he gazed into her eyes tenderly. The sound of his tone, and the affection in his cerulean eyes, sent pleasant chills down her spine.
"I'm both nervous and exited, I have no idea what to expect." She replied, timidly observing the ride. Her nerves were tight with both fear and exhilaration.
"It's gonna be fine, besides ya wit me, and I aint gonna let ya go." Spot said assuring her. Star smiled, and her muscles loosened. She felt more secure, knowing Spot was beside her. The roller coaster began to descend, faster and faster, the wind whipping at their faces, Star felt her stomach churn and gripped onto the bar for dear life, screaming as the coaster turned sharply to the right and slowed a bit to climb another hill. Breathing hard, Star glanced at Spot, who grinned, "Enjoyin yerself?" he asked as his arm was still closely draped around her. His other hand held tightly on to the bar.
Star laughed, but before she could answer, the roller coaster dipped down the hill and Star felt her stomach drop to her feet before she screamed again, rather enjoying herself now as the ride turned and twisted.
"What are ya tryin ta do? Kill us all?" Jack jokingly shouted from infront of them as Star, and Cassie screamed piercingly.
"We's gonna be deaf by da time dis ride's done!" Spot teasingly yelled. After that being said an unexpected drop hauled them down a steep mount, and Jack and Spot shouted, cursing the sudden drop.
Star and Cassie began to laugh uncontrollably, as they watched their boys scream their hearts out. As the ride slowed down Cassie shouted, "Maybe next time you'll keep ya mout shut about our screamin!"
"Especially when you guy's start screaming even louder right afterwards." Star uttered, as the girls chuckled.
"Hey! Dat drop came out of nowhere! Besides who wouldn't scream on dat ting! Not even da wiz who built dis ride could contol 'imself." Jack defended.
"Jackey-boy's right, But I say dis tings got a mind of it's own." Spot replied humorously. The four broke into an outburst of laughter. The brakes screeched to a stop. This was a memory Star would never forget. Little did she know what the night would bring…
Notebook and Tiger sat in a chair, on the Ferris wheel and as the wheel turned, bringing them higher and higher Notebook gasped at the view: The tents and the other rides seemed so small at forty-two feet. Looking up, she saw the moon and stars seemed nearer then usual and she laughed. "This is just…wonderful!" "I've never been this high up before!" she said and looked down to the many people scurrying around.
Tiger grinned, "Anything like flying?"
Notebook shook her head, "No, much more relaxing." Notebook replied, green eyes staring down at the expansive sight. "I wonder what…" She trailed off suddenly, frowning.
Tiger noticed her sudden hesitation and looked at her, confused. Notebook closed her eyes and took a deep breath, not believing what she saw. Opening her eyes again, she pointed to the group of bulls that had gathered near a clown selling balloons and Tiger glanced down to see them, clubs lazily held in their hands, "They're probably just patrolling, making sure no trouble arises." He said.
Notebook shook her head, "I'm sure it's not just that. I'm sure of it!" Giving a shaky smile, she stared down guiltily at her hands. "I shouldn't worry." She whispered.
Tiger suddenly gripped her shoulder and looked her in the eye, "Look again." He whispered.
Notebook then looked down, confused. "What am I looking for?"
"See the people over there by those bulls?" He explained, pointing to a small cluster of rowdy newsboys. "Those, if I'm not mistaken, are some of the Queen's. Back a year ago, before the strike, they used to give the Manhattan and Brooklyn newsies a lot of trouble." "I never expected them to hold this big a grudge." He added.
The ride stopped suddenly and the two knew, as they got off, that if the bulls were about, trouble was about to begin. And with the Queen's newsies to worry about, the night was about to get tight with tension.
As they got off the ride, they noticed the next four in line were Mush, Mary, Kid Blink and Boots.
"Enjoy da ride fellas!" Jack replied, grinning broadly.
"And Mush, hang on ta ya goil." Spot advised, smirking. After that being said, the awaiting four exchanged nervous glances causing Jack, Cassie, Star and Spot to chuckle amusingly, at their timorous friends. Jack, and Cassie then decided to go their separate way, leaving Star, and Spot alone.
They walked on the graveled paths, passing game booths. One in particular caught Spot's eyes. It was the Kissing booth. Two women stood in the booths. Their faces were caked with make-up, and they had low necklines that showed a bit too much. Numerous amounts of men stood in line impatiently, awaiting a deceiving kiss.
"I wouldn't mind some a dat." Spot intentionally replied, as his eyes mischievously glanced from the booth to Star's disapproving expression. Spot smirked knowingly, and chuckled.
"Care ta share some of ya sweetness." Star laughed, playfully nudging him in the side.
"On one condition." Star notified, smirking daringly.
"What do ya got in mind?" Spot asked, raising a brow.
"Win me a bear, and I promise you won't regret it." Star persuaded. Spot chuckled incredulously at her request
"A bear?" he asked.
"Yes, a bear. Like that one." Star stated, pointing in the direction of a girl holding a teddy, her boyfriend had won for her. Spot compatibly eyed the boyfriend and arrogantly stated "Dat sucka only wants one ting from her."
Star rolled her eyes "That's not the point, and besides are you just afraid you won't win?" She challenged. Spot abruptly averted his head from the couple to Star. He glared at her, but still a slight smile could be seen on his lips, and his eyes secretly dazzled at her daring remark.
He scoffed, and sniggered. " I'll get ya one 10 times da size of dat." He answered smugly. He glanced around at the game booths and noticed one he was sure he could succeed in. He grabbed her hand and pulled her towards the game booth. As they quickly headed there Star laughed because she knew what she had said made him think otherwise, in winning her a bear.
Once they reached it, The man running the game, began to explain the rules but Spot interrupted him and said "Ya ya whateva, I get da point if ya shoot da bottles down ya win, now can I jus play da game?"
The man laughed at Spot's eagerness, and said, "Of course you can kid, that'll be five cents." Spot pulled out his slingshot, and laid down the money. The man took the money, and set up the bottles. Within an instant, a loud crash was heard as all the bottles smashed to the ground. Spot stood boldly smirking, as the man starred in amazement. "You got skill kid" The man complimented.
"Now can I get dat big bear ova dere for me goil?" Spot asked, before gazing down at Star's beaming expression.
"Sure thing kid." The man said grabbing it and passing it to Star. She happily took the big brown fluffy bear, and Spot placed his arm around her leading them away, but before Spot could take another step she threw her arms around his neck, and with one hand holding the bear behind him, she planted a long blissful kiss on his lips. At first he was quite taken aback by her sudden urge to kiss him, but then he was more then happy to receive it and pulled her in closer, deepening the kiss. Once they pulled apart for air the first words Star breathlessly uttered were "Thank you."
Spot chuckled and said, "Ya weren't kiddin when ya said I wouldn't regret it." Star smiled, but before she could respond, Notebook and Tiger hurried up to them.
"Thank goodness I found you two! You won't believe what I just saw." Notebook cried, shaking, "The bulls…" she swallowed hard, "I think they know we're here and I think they're after us, Queen's must've told them something." Notebook's voice had reduced to a whisper as she stared down at the ground, hands clasped in front of her.
"Queens? Did you see them Maddie? " Star questioned, her eyes wide and full of fright.
"I could have sworn I saw them." Tiger answered.
"Perhaps this is all a mistake, maybe their not here for us." Notebook hopefully mumbled
"Dere here, And dere's no mistake in dat." Spot answered. His tone was loud and intimidating, causing Notebook to jump.
"We gotta find da adda's and see what da hell is goin on. Tiger have you seen Jackey-boy and da rest of dem anywhere?" Spot asked.
"No not lately, but we'll go look." Tiger answered.
"No. You aint goin anywhere, we gotta stick tagedda. What if Queen's decides to pull sumtin and we aint in a group?" Spot asked, looking up as he directly glared into Tiger's eyes, daring him to object.
"Aright, sounds smart." Tiger answered casually shrugging. Once Spot was satisfied he turned away, and Tiger nodded, relieved that the Brooklyn leader's glower was no longer on him. Spot grabbed Star's hand, and with the other she tightly gripped the bear. As they walked searching for well-known Newsies, Notebook and Tiger silently trailed behind hand in hand, thinking over the situation.
"Dis is where I saw Race last." Spot stated as the entered the bar zone. Spot paused, and glanced around the area, when he noticed the familiar table, crowded with the same men drinking, and playing poker. They rapidly walked over towards the table, and there was Race, giddy from alcohol, and too much cigars. "Heya Spot! I see ya came back ta join the game." Race shouted, between his hiccups.
Spot frowned at Race's mindless behavior and shouted, " We got bigger problems den some damn poka game, ya need ta come wit us now." Spot ordered threw gritted teeth as he tried his best to control his frustration, and temper.
"Awww come on! I'm winnin da game!" Race shouted, as he gestured his hands toward his winnings.
Spot rolled his eyes in aggravation and tried to stay calm, but clearly failed when he shouted. "If you don't get ya drunk ass ova here I'll come ova dere and drag ya meself!"
Racetrack realized the tension in Spot's tone, and knew Spot meant business. "Aright, aright, I'm comin!" Race shouted, and mumbled under his breath "Da last ting I need is your miserable attitude reckin me night." Race began sliding his money of the table into his little brown sack, and then said thank you to everyone he grabbed his cards from.
Spot stood impatiently tapping his foot. But just as Racetrack was about to leave, a drunk and angry man grabbed Race's collar, and unexpectedly flew him a hard punch.
Racetrack furiously pushed him away with one hand, holding his money with the other. The men cheered the fight on, encouraging violence. Star and Notebook watched disbelievingly, while Spot angrily swore under his breath.
"Race! Just get outa dere!" Spot yelled, but Race was too involved in the fight to notice.
"Should we go and help him out? Tiger asked.
Spot irately glared at the catastrophe in front of them and replied, " Well deres no point in waistin time standin here like morons, so let's get him outta dere."
"Looks like Race is in need of some serious help, I know we're wasting valuable time but once we get him out you and Star need to run." Tiger explained to Notebook, before going to help his friend.
Before leaving, Spot looked Star in the eye and said, "Don't go anywhere, ya here me?" She obediently nodded her head, because she knew the risk of wandering alone in the situation they were in. He began to walk toward the chaos, but stopped to say "Keep ya eye out for da odda's"
Just as he was about to take another step she called him, and he turned to faced her. "Be careful." She murmured. Spot smirked at her concern, and turned to aid his friends. Spot squeezed through the hustle and bustle and grabbed the guy who was threatening Race, punching him hard in the jaw. Spot nodded to Tiger, silently signaling to him that he had his back, Tiger ducked a punch and elbowed the guy in the gut. Race nodded his thanks to them both and managed to escape the grasp of another man, who almost ran into Spot before the Brooklyn leader tripped him with his cane.
Racetrack sighed in relief; "Catch!" he called, throwing the sack over another drunkard's head to Takoda, who then threw it in the direction of the girls, quickly signaling them to be prepared to run. Notebook caught the sack, stumbling backward as she caught it. Sighing in relief, Notebook looked toward the brawl, and noticed a man breaking a beer bottle over another man's head.
"Did you see that!" Star fretfully exclaimed.
"Unfortunatley." Notebook said alarmingly. The girls wordlessly hoped—prayed that the victim hadn't been Tiger, Spot, or Race. After a long struggle, the boys managed to escape, but were unfortunately covered in blood, and forming bruises. Once Star saw Spot she swiftly threw the bear in Notebook's direction, and ran towards him. Notebook tried her best to catch it with one hand, but was relieved when a hand reached out and caught it. Notebook looked confused for a moment but grinned when she saw the bear in Tiger's hand.
When Notebook gave Tiger a hug, Race noticed the bag of winnings still in her hand. "I'll take dis." He grinned, plucking the bag from her hand.
Once Star reached Spot she noticed a bruise forming around his right eye, and a look of apprehension crossed her face. Spot chuckled "Don't worry about it, I'll be fine." He assured, looking deep into her eyes. Suddenly his gaze averted once he noticed Jack, Dave, and the group of Newsies, walking in the distance. It looked like they were looking for them too.
"Come here." Spot said, grabbing her hand, and walking towards the others. Tiger and Notebook quickly followed.
Once Jack saw them walking his way, he wasted no time in telling them the news, quickly approaching them. Spot could see the worry in Jack's face and figured he knew what was going on.
"What exactly is goin on Jackey-boy?" Spot questioned preparing himself for the explanation.
Jack took a deep breath, and said, "Well Spot, Queens is here, dey got some sorta deal goin on wit da bulls. Queens is bein paid for information—"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, what information?" Spot asked, raising his hands, and interrupting him.
"I dunno Spot, I tink dere payin 'em ta find da goils…" Jack said trailing off in a slight whisper, as he averted his eyes to the ground, trying to avoid their reactions. Star's eyes widened in fear, as she glanced back at Notebook who began shaking nervously, as she dropped Star's bear.
Spot's eyes also grew wide, as rage and terror flashed through them, he shouted "What da hell do da goils gotta do wit dis!" Everyone was silent, in fear of saying anything else that would cause more destruction.
Spot broke the troubled silence and ordered, "Tiger ya need ta get dese goils outa here, bring em to da lodgin house where we know dere safe."
Star ran towards him, and grabbed his arm "No! Spot what about the bulls? How can you expect me to leave? What if something horrible happens? I won't be here to help!" she objected as worry flooded threw her, and she could feel a teardrop rolling down her cheek. The fury in Spot's eyes partially vanished when he gazed at her tear-glazed eyes.
He smiled tenderly, and his hand cupped her cheek, wiping away the tear with his thumb. With the other hand he tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, placed his palms on either side of her face, and quietly said in a soothing pleasant tone, "I'll be fine, I'm gonna stay and figure dis out, Besides rememba what I said? I won't be able to forgive meself if sumtin happens ta ya. At least I'll know ya safe at da lodgin house, instead of riskin ya life here." Star stared up into luminous eyes, and sworn she could have drowned in them.
"Promise me you'll be alright" Star whispered her eyes still fixed on his own.
"I promise" He replied, with a slight smirk.
With that, she wrapped her arms around him, and kissed him momentarily, until Spot unwillingly dropped his hands from her face, and broke away. He hated the thought of having to let her go, but considering the circumstances, he knew he had to. "Now go." He bluntly replied forcing himself to look away.
He knew that if he looked into her eyes any longer, he wouldn't let her go. Star nodded her head. She turned away to pick up her bear, and held it close, hoping and praying he'd be all right.
"Jackey-boy I'm trustin ya to go wit dem, cuz it's safer for dem to ba walkin around wit two fellas instead of one." Spot advised.
"What about our plan?" Jack asked.
"Don't worry Jackey-boy I got it covered. If I need ya, I'll send someone ta get ya." Spot informed.
"I gotta miss all da action? Dat aint fair." Jack joked.
Spot gave Jack a serious glower, "I mean it Jackey-boy."
Jack nodded in defeat, and shouted, "Cassie!"
"Yea?" she shouted back from the cluster of newsboys.
"Come on! We's headin to da lodgin house!" Cassie walked towards them. Once Jack explained the plan to Cassie, they left, avoiding the bulls as much as possible.
Spot watched them go, hoping he made the right decision. As Spot walked towards the newsies they began to quiet down, knowing full well he would only say what he needed to say once. "If we wanna find out what dese goons are plannin ta do, it's time we head ova dere and see what's goin on! If dey gotta a problem wit it we'll soak 'em." Spot stated.
"And what about the bulls? They're siding with Queens remember?" David muttered.
Spot glared at David, and said "Are ya in dis or not?"
"I guess I have no choice." David mumbled.
"Aright den, Come on fellas!" Spot shouted leading the way.
"Let's knock 'em dead! Race shouted, and they headed to find their opponents. They reached the entrance of the fairgrounds unaware of the surprise awaiting them.
"There he is!" a Queens newsboy yelled. The newsies realized they had been ambushed and tried to fight the bulls off as the police whistled, clubs raised high. The newsies scrambled and tried to distract the bulls. Still, as more came, the newsies fought them off trying desperately to keep them back.
Spot was running, dodging newsies, and shoving past bulls. His mind was reeling with thoughts, thoughts about Star, about the situation, about whether he would get out of this alive or dead…His head was spinning as his body was moving toward safety, or what he thought was safety. He wasn't so sure anymore among the confusion that this chaos had become.
Suddenly, Spot bumped into a Queen's Newsie and a bull grabbed the collar of his shirt. Spot got him in the gut with his cane, but another had snuck behind him and just as Spot recognized Striker in the crowd, the bull's club came down hard on his head.
The last thing Spot saw besides Striker's deceitful sneer, was the Newsie that followed him and Star the other night in the familiar gray suit, and cap. Then his knees buckled out from under him and as he fell to the ground, his vision blurred, and everything went black.
The bulls, satisfied, picked Spot up and carried him to the jail carriage. Tossing his limp form in, they closed and locked the door and one blew his whistle a signal that their job of catching the Brooklyn leader had been successful.
As the two bulls climbed to the front of the carriage, one chuckled and turned to the bull that had knocked Spot out, "This means good money from those rich folks."
"It's a good thing those Queen's boys gave us the information we needed." came the response.
"That boy's going to have one hell of a headache when he wakes up!" After that being said the bull flicked the reins and the two rode off, laughing wickedly.
David noticed Spot being carried off in the carriage, and ripped out of the bull's grasp. He tried to run after it, but it was already to far ahead. David mentally kicked himself for being too late. He then glanced around for help, but everyone seemed engaged in struggle as they tried there hardest to fight off their opponents.
He needed to find Jack…