The first part of the year was a bit tumultuous. Things were mercifully peaceful at the Lodging House, but Katja's shift change had created massive upheaval in the lives of boys who depend on what little routine they can find. The switch of times for meeting on the bench created some tension as boys wanted to adjust their selling routines to be able to join us. They settled eventually, as they inevitably do. Red even took Katja out on a date. He didn't think I'd known about it, but I have my sources. Those sources (okay, it was me—after I heard he was taking her out, I kept a discreet eye on them) also saw that she was not interested in pursuing a romance with him. Score for me. Well, maybe—more like no score for Red.
When the Fischers' horse died, things got even crazier. For a week he wasn't working, and I watched Katja worry and fret over money. I debated giving money to Mr. Fischer, but I doubted he'd accept it. The problem resolved itself when Katja's boss took care of things. It struck me as a bit odd until Silver pointed out that everyone liked the Fischers and that we'd have done the same. I am not much of a horse man, but Katja had a way with the animal. He was flightier than their old horse, but he always settled under her gentle touch.
All through those months I struggled with the realization that I had fallen truly in love with Katja. This wasn't just a passing crush; I wanted her to be mine, but more than that I wanted her to be herself. Her happiness became paramount, and seeing her smile was the most important goal of any day. It was killing me, but I played it cool. I was interested in forever, and for a girl of barely sixteen with no real experience, forever was too much. I would have to wait until she was ready for forever, and that meant I would have to back off, maybe even for a few years. Even if it killed me.
I coped well, though. I immersed myself in my studies. Twice a week I spent a few hours with Mr. Donovan, and I had worked through two full law courses and was becoming well versed in the basics. The practical experience of assisting Mr. Donovan with his paperwork was also going to pay off someday. It was a win for each of us; Mr. Donovan got regular assistance with his office work without having to pay a paralegal, and I got an education and a mentor in the field. I still hadn't told the boys, though. They just assumed I was off whoring or something else, and they knew better than to ask questions.
Oh, I was busy. Intentionally so. Given what was to come, though, these were some of the more peaceful days of the year 1900.