Epilogue

In a way, just like the how the hell of winter was coming to an end - and making way for the spring to bring new life- my life was getting the fresh starting line that it truly needed. Even the scars and bruises I gained in the fight against the Delanceys and Daze were fading away, leaving tougher skin in its wake. Days of working in the factories were behind me now.

I undid the top buttons of my sweater as I swiftly made my way to the nearby library, breathing in the aroma of newborn blossoms drifting down from Battery Park. As the sun beats down, it seems as if every citizen of the city is soaking in the much anticipated transition from one season to the next.

Inside the library I scan the familiar rows of dusty books for one book in particular.

"You're just in luck," a voice boomed from a couple rows away. I turn around only to be met with the same eyes of the boy who I talked to the last time I was here. Julian, I believe his name was. Yes, that was it. "We just got our hands on the latest Sherlock Holmes book. It was only released last week, you know." He finished, sending me a charming half-smile.

"I do. I can't believe you remember that after all this time." I tease with a mocking, awe-inspired expression. "And speaking of time, when did you start working back at the library?"

"A week or two ago," he says, shrugging. "I just finished my studies. What about you? You seem very different than the last time I saw you."

"I'll take that as a compliment," I jest. "Yeah, a lot has happened."

"Say, I've got a ticket to the flickers tonight, why don't you join me?" His eyes almost are almost twinkling with excitement, while my own mirror the gesture as I nod my head.

Back at the Newsboys Lodging House I find the younger boys scattered around the lobby.

"Let's go on a field trip." I suggest, my spontaneity causing the boys to stare at me with shocked faces.

"Really?!" Snipeshooter shrieks.

"Yes, really."

"Ms. Kate!" Boots beckons, " look at this." He hands me one of today's papers pointing out an article on page eleven.

Honorable Judge Killed At Knifepoint

New York, New York- Shubert Alleyway, 5:30 a.m. one of the city's best and longest working judges of New York City's court was found deceased in an alleyway. Ten yards away from the crime scene a teenage boy was found with a knife covered in blood, which further investigations show that the blood is that of the dead Judge. The boy, going by the alias of "Daze" is now in the Metro Jail and awaits further trials. The judge was last seen at the court case of Kathleen Asta

I stop reading as a sick feeling begins to grow in the pit of my stomach. The man who saved me of a life-long sentence is now dead, and all because of my court case. My old boss is in prison. Daze is in jail. The Delanceys are in prison. The judge is dead. The newsies are safe. And I am finally home. Perhaps this is a sick version of poetic justice.

I shake it off and herd the younger newsboys outside in the direction of the art museum for today's lesson. My thoughts begin to wander as we wind through the busy streets. I recall the conversation I had with Julian. What about you? You seem different since the last time I saw you.

The truth is, I am different. I'm finally happy. I'm pretty sure I've had my fill of drama to last me for a lifetime. In fact, getting fired from the textile mill seemed like a lifetime ago. I glance ahead at the boys, who will eventually grow into strong and charming men, that are currently shadowboxing and shoving each other just like brothers would. Every now and then I spot a newsie who sends a friendly wave and I make sure to send one right back.

Each day, I taught the boys every thing I could, and each day my love and devotion for these boys grew. No, time is not infinite. One day things will come to end, but for now I plan to spend each and every day with the boys who have changed me- shown me how strong I am, that families are more than just the people who gave birth to you. I truly had taught my way into their hearts, just as they had into mine.

Author's Note! Well it is finally done. It took nearly a year to do (and 60 word document pages later) but it is complete. I still need to go through and edit some but after several false promises (sorry!) Kate's journey is complete. This was my first fanfiction so you have no idea how happy I am to just finish it. Thank you , thank you, thank you for taking the time to read and even comment on this story. She Taught Her Way Right Into Their Hearts is dedicated to those who have inspired me by their own writing and encouraged me with your wonderful comments. Again, thank you.