#racexreader

“Why do we have to go to Manhatten? Race is there, Spot. He’s so annoyin’!” You complained with a frown.

“Stop frownin’. Manhatten is askin’ for a little bit of help with all their new newsies. We’re da best of the best,” he says with a grin. “Now, let’s get goin’.”

You walked to Manhatten and the minute you got to their lodge, Race was running towards the two of you, with his signature smirk, curly blond hair, cigar in mouth...and those sparkling, dazzling...blue eyes.

You felt yourself supress a smile as he looked you up and down and took the cigar out of his mouth.

“Long time no see, Spot. You as well, (Y/N). You look wonderful as eva’.”

I don't have a sunny disposition.

I'm not known for being too amused.

My demeanor's locked in one position.

See my face? I'm enthused.

Suddenly, however, I've been puzzled.

Bunny rabbits make me want to cry.

All my inhibitions have been muzzled,

And I think I know why.

I'm being pulled in a new direction,

But I think I like it.

I think I like it.

I'm being pulled in a new direction.

Through my painful pursuit,

Somehow birdies took root.

All the things I detested impossibly cute.

What do I do?

Pulled

You were always known to the other newsies around New York that you were quite stand-offish, frowning most of the time, and it was rumored you were more scary and violent than Spot was.

But here in front of you, Racetrack Higgins was making you melt.

What the...what is this? A good, kind, warm feeling towards Higgins, possibly the most annoying person I’ve ever met, you asked yourself.

You looked at him once more, and felt butterflies in your stomach.

“I actually got you somethin’,” he said, his hand reaching into his pocket, pulling out a small yellow flower. “To hopefully cheer your day up.”

You plucked the flower from his hand and looked it over...a yellow flower was most definetly something that you would never like, but it was so pretty.

WHAT IS THIS?! Your thoughts screamed, echoing and racking your brain.

Mother always said be kind to strangers,

But she doesn't know what they destroy.

I can feel the clear and present dangers,

When she learns that the boy...

Has got me pulled in a new direction,

But I think I like it.

I think I like it.

Spot pulls you away and the two of you walk over to Jack to find the new newsies.

“You be nice to these kids, alright. Don’t want ‘em to be scared away. They need da money, just like we do.”

You nodded your head in agreement.

Spot had always told you to be nice to kids, strangers...people in general, especially Race. But if he knew that you thought you might just have feelings for Race, he’d be done for.

There’s a line for him, and that would be crossing it.

But you liked these feelings for Race. He was making you happy...so genuinely happy, with his stupid handsome face, and that stupid adorable grin, and those stupid blue eyes that distracted you.

I'm being pulled in a new direction,

But this feeling, I know is impossible,

So I'll confide that I've tried but I can't let it go.

It's disgustingly true!

Pulled, pulled, pulled!

Have got me pulled in a new direction!

If they keep insisting, I'll stop resisting.

Just watch me pulled in a new direction.

I should stay in the dark,

Not obey every spark,

But the boy has a bite,

Better far than his bark!

And you bet I'll bite too,

Do what's truly taboo,

As I'm pulled in a new direction!

“Hey sweetheart! I’m supposed to help you sell with da new kids. Spot sent me...he’s worried you’ll scare them.”

“Of course he is.” you laughed.

“You...laughed? I’ve never heard you laugh before,” Race remarked. “I like it.”

You felt an urge, to do something that would definetly get you in trouble with Spot.

Kiss him, (Y/N). Kiss him.

You looked at the boy, who’s cigar was in a pocket instead of between his lips.

His lips are freeee, your thoughts nagged.

“Race,”

“Yes, sweetheart?”

You stood on your tiptoes, and reached for Race’s face, which was a good foot away from you. But it was as if he knew what you were doing. He leaned down and pressed his lips to yours, and in the spur of the moment, he grabbed your waist and picked you up a little bit off the ground.

As I'm pulled in a new direction!

Everyday you made sure to walk for a bit outside, whatever the weather. Your family had a tendency to keep you inside for the majority of the day, and you just needed that breath of fresh air. And it wasn’t like they kept you inside for malicious purposes, they just wanted to make sure that you were safe and being courted by someone. They were good people, really, but they were also rich people. So whenever you did go out, you would always need to take the proper precautions and make sure you represented the family well and did everything else your mother and father told every time before you went out.

“Mother, father! I’m going out again.” You shouted as you raced down the stairs. You had finished your studies and were eager to get away from your books.

“Again? That’s the third time today, is everything alright (Y/N) dear?” Your mother said from the parlor. She was sat drinking tea and talking to the mother of another suitor.

“Yes mother dearest, everything is fine. I finished my reading and I needed to get out of my room.” You looked outside, clouds were starting to form, you should probably bring an umbrella. “Well, if you’re going out, could you get the evening paper? I didn’t manage to get one this morning. Here’s some money.” She set her tea down and walked over to her purse and pulled out some coins and handed them to you.

“Thank you mother, I’ll see you when I get back.” You gave her a hug and kiss and walked to the door. You grabbed an umbrella before walking out as well.

You had walked around for quite some time, past all the shops and restaurants. You took in the sounds and sights of New York, what a time to be alive. You were lost in thought when you heard some vague yelling.

“Pape! Evenin’ pape! Animals escape the zoo and go on a rampage!” You walked up to the boy yelling the headline. He seemed to have a cigar in his mouth, and how he was still able to clearly yell the headline was beyond you.

“Now, that can’t be true.” You said as you approached him. “What can’t?”

“The headline.” “And why’s that?” He took the cigar out of his mouth and crossed his arms defensively. “Well you would’ve seen them if they were on the streets.” “Fair point.” He paused, and looked you up and down. “Look, youse interested in buyin a pape or what?”

“I would be, if you told me the actual headline.” “It’s ‘bout the trolley strike.”

“Sweet lord, again? Well, a deal’s a deal,” You stick out your hand for the paper, to which he gives you, “and here’s some change.” You began to walk away when he spoke up again, and you turned your head to face him. “Uh, miss, this is way too much for a pape.” “Keep it, part for the paper and part for telling me the actual headline, and it’s not like my family needs it anyway.” You shrug your shoulders and were about continue walking back when you felt raindrops on your nose.

“Ah christ.” You heard the boy behind you mumble.

“Oh, do you need to borrow my umbrella?”

“Uh, I couldn’t ask that miss, ya need to get back to your own house.”

“No, I insist, we can both use my umbrella, look it’s big enough.” You opened your umbrella and walked over to the nameless newsboy.

“See?” You said with a smile.

“I guess so miss.” It was his turn to shrug, and then the two of you began walking. He told you the directions to take him to where he was going, and you chatted here and there about previous headlines.

“Here we are miss, this is where I get off, er, go in. Thanks for walkin me here.”

“No problem, and the names (Y/N) (L/N) not miss.”

“Well it’s been awful nice talkin to ya (Y/N), I’m Race.”

“It’s nice to meet you too Race, I’ll have to buy a paper from you more often.” You smirked and walked away from Race and the lodging house. This was going to be interesting.

A FEW WEEKS LATER

“Mother! Father! I’m going out to get the paper!” You had grabbed some money off of a shelf in your room, plus a little bundle you had created for Race.

“Alright dear! Just make sure your back in time for supper, Mr. and Mrs. Heiser and their family are coming over!” Your mother said from her own room. You groaned internally on your walk to Race. You knew this would never end. They just wanted you to have a nice and comfortable life, with a nice and rich man. It annoyed you that it was still happening, yet you knew why. You were brought out of your slump when you heard Race calling your name.  

“(Y/N)! Ay (Y/N)!”

“Hello Race! Tell me, what’s today’s headline?”

“Bat child found in a cave on the outskirts a New York.” He said smugly.

“And the real headline?” You asked. You and Race had fallen into this pattern of you asking for a paper and him telling you the headline he was selling it under, and then the actual headline. It was refreshing, you never really got to joke with your family, so you cherished your time with Race.

“Annodda article ‘bout Pulitzer’s hate for Roosevelt.” “Do you think he’ll ever move on?” You asked, while handing Race some money in exchange for a paper. “Over Roosevelt? Never.” He was being dramatic, making you laugh.

“Speaking of not moving on, I brought you something!” You handed Race the little bundle you had brought with you.

“You’re still on about this? Ise told ya, I don’t need ‘em.” “Well, if you don’t want them, you can give them to some of the other newsboys, and if you do, make sure to give them my regards.” You said with a shrug and a smile, knowing it would get him to take it.

“This happens every week Race, is there anything else I can say to get you to take the things I bring you?”

“Maybe youse could stop bringin’ em?” “Only until I run out of things to bring you!” You say brightly.

“Plus, I’ve seen you wearing the things I bring you, so to say you don’t like them would be false.”

“You got me there doll. They are pretty nice, say, where is you gettin’ these clothes anyway?”

“I, uh, I got it from my brother. He’s been gone a while, he died in the war a while back.”

“Oh, I’m sorry ‘bout that doll. Guess it must be difficult seein his clothes on me eh?” “Not really, it kinda makes me happy seeing them be worn again, is that weird?”

“Not really, now I never had much a family, but I would guess that seein somethin that has meanin to you everyday makes it easier to get used too. Just like how quick you got used to me.” He nudged you on that last part, and you sighed.

“You know, I think you might be right Race, you just might be right.” The two walked for a bit more, you thinking about what Race had said, and Race enjoying the view of area.

“I should probably be getting home soon.” You said, pulling Race out of his own head and thoughts.

“Yeah, the settin sun, while a lovely picture, bears a horrible reminder that we gotta part ways. Hey, hows about I walk you home?”

“I’m not sure if that’d be a good idea, my parents planned dinner with another family they’re trying to marry me off to.” You grumbled.

“Ah, the burden of bein rich.” “Hey now, I’ve got a difficult life, trying to maintain my image and all.”

“Yeah, come talk to me when you don’t know if you’ll be able to buy dinner.” You stop after he says this.

“Wait, are you serious?” You say in shock. “What, ya think I can get dinner every night like you? Nah, I gotta make sure I got enough money to buy papes for the next day, and sometimes I just can’t afford it.” His speech is nonchalant.

“Race, I, I’m sorry. I didn’t know.”

“It’s alright, though I gotta say, with youse bringin’ me money an’ clothes an’ such, life’s been easier.”

“I’m glad I can help. But if you or any of the others need anything, really, please tell me.”

“Good to know sweetheart. Now hows about we get youse home eh?”

“Oh, right, that, yes. Alright.” The pair of you meander back to your house, the silence solemn. When you had finally gotten back to your house, you turned to Race.

“I was serious back there, if you or any of the other guys need something, please feel free to ask me for it. I want to help you guys.” “Thank ya’ sweetheart, now I gotta be gettin back.” He turned to leave but before he could you enveloped him in your arms. He was surprised to say, but he enjoyed the feeling nonetheless.

“Have a safe trip back, ok?” Your voice was muffled by his shirt.

“Doll, when have youse known me not to be safe?”

“I mean it.” You said firmly.

“What, you care ‘bout me or somethin’?” He turned around in your arms and looked into your eyes.

“Of course I do, you think I’ve been doing all of this because I don’t care?”

“Doll, I didn’t mean it like that, I know you care. An’ I cares about youse too. I just, I don’t know how to show youse yet.” He was the one hugging you this time, his hands rubbing your back.

“I’ll see ya around, yeah doll?”

“Yeah Race.” His hands slid down your arms, ending at your hands. He brought them up to his lips and kissed them.

“Till next time.” He turned and left, leaving you on the steps to your house. You smiled and opened the door. You saw your parents in the parlor talking with the Heisers, you managed to hear what you determined to be the end of a conversation.

“. . . just went out to buy a paper, and probably got distracted.” You heard your mother's voice. You walked towards the parlor and leaned against the frame.

“Are you talking about me?”

“There she is! Yes, we were just talking about you, how nice of you to finally join us.” You could hear the joking tone of her voice and laughed.

“As you said, I got distracted. Lost track of time. Though I finished all my work before hand so you don’t need to worry about that.” You left your spot against the frame to go hug your mother. She hugged you back and pulled you into the seat next to her.

“These are the Heisers, Elizabeth and her mother Cordelia.” “It’s a pleasure to make both of your acquaintances.”

“The pleasure is ours.” Cordelia said.

“Where’s father?” You asked your mother.

“Outside with Charles and James.”

“Smoking cigars no doubt.” You commented.

“Of course, what else does your father do?” “He acts as if we’re never going to run out of money.” You were exasperated with his constant consumption of cigars. At least Race always seemed like he had the same one. But it worried you still. What if that killed him off early?  

“It doesn’t quite seem like it though, does it dear?” Cordelia joked. She seemed nice enough, though you knew these types. Everyone one of them were always there just for the money. They didn’t quite care about what you wanted, that’s how it always was. That’s what drew you in most about Race, that he didn’t care about your money or your social standing. He liked you for you, and as cliche as it sounded, you enjoyed it. While in your daze, the conversation had carried on about more trivial things. You were brought back by the sound of a door opening and the closing shortly after.

“Ah, George dear,” Your mother to get your father’s attention, “why don’t you bring Charles and James over here to meet (Y/N).”

“Ah yes, at long last, the great and wonderful (Y/N) is finally home.” “Oh, my ever charming and darling father, how are you?” You got up to hug your father, ever the hardy man, a bit hard headed too. Yet you loved him despite it.

“I’m doing quite well, I had a chat with these fine gentlemen and they are some of the funniest people I have met in all my years. Behind you, of course, my dear. And how are you doing?”

“I had quite an eventful day, I went for another walk through the city. Stopped by the bakery, the flower shop, chatted with shop owners, the usual.”

“Did you at least buy a paper?” Your father asked, jokingly.

“As a matter of fact, I did.” You took out the paper and handed it to your father.

“I also had a very nice chat with the newsboy selling the paper. They all seem to be quite interesting young men.” You mentioned it offhandedly, hoping that no one would really critique what you had said.

“Chatting? With a newsboy? I didn’t know they knew basic english.” The son said. He was either James or Charles, which one you didn’t really care.

“They have to, how else would they sell papers!” Elizabeth said, chuckling.

“(Y/N), why would you be talking to one of them, you’re just supposed to buy a paper from them.” Your mother scolded.

“They provide a new perspective and can be quite thoughtful.”

“Sure they can.” The boy scoffed. Good lord he was annoying.

“At least they’ll listen to what I have to say and aren’t judgemental like someone I barely know and really don’t have the desire to get to know.”

“Well I’d never!” Cordelia exclaimed.

“Mrs. (L/N) please contain your daughter! It’s not right for a girl to be making such accusations!” The father said.

“Please, I don’t even know either of your names, you have no right to be talking about what I should and shouldn’t be!” You shouted at him. You were completely done with this conversation and stormed off. You headed towards the door and heard your mother shout at you.

“(Y/N) (L/N) you come back here right now!”

“I’ll be back later! When the ever so lovely Heiser's have left!” You slammed the door closed. You were unable to deal with these people. No discussion had ever gotten that heated. Though you hadn’t brought up the newsboys in any discussion ever. At least until now. Though had you brought them up earlier, you were sure more conversations would end like this one. You didn’t even know where you were going until you looked up. You had brought yourself to the lodging house. Maybe that’s why things had gotten so personal. Maybe you felt like it wasn’t just the newsboys you were defending, but a certain one in particular. How would you even get up there to meet him. You walked around the building, looking for options, checking your surroundings to make sure you were still safe. You saw a balcony with clothes that looked all too familiar. You managed to climb the fire escape connected to building and stopped once you had reached the balcony with the clothes. And when you looked through the window, sure enough, there was they guy you had given the clothes to. You knocked on his window, causing him to jump.

“(Y/N)? What is youse doin here? Shouldn’t you be at home?” He opened the window and helped you in. You were glad to see he didn’t have his cigar in his mouth.

“Yes, well, you see, I had a disagreement with my family and had to leave.”

“Youse sure it was just a disagreement?” “That doesn’t matter, what does matter is that now that I’m here, I want to meet some of your friends.” You got up off of his bed and dusted off your clothes. The want to look presentable still heavily ingrained into you.

“Well alright then. Come one, I’ll give ya the grand tour.” He took hold of your hand and lead you through a doorway that opened into a hallway. He told you about each of the rooms and where everything was until you came into a main room. There were a couple guys in there playing a card game, though they lifted their heads as you entered.

“Well hey now, whos the goirl Race?” “And how long you been hidin her?” Out of the two boys who had spoken, one had red hair and the other was quite short.

“Albert, Romeo, Specs, Jojo, Elmer, this is (Y/N), a friend o’ mine.” He wasn’t quite sure what to call you, as he wasn’t quite sure of the relationship the two of you had, so he thought friend would be the best for now.  

“Well, it is an absolute pleasure to meet you sweetheart. The name’s Romeo.” He came up and bowed in front of you, and to be extra dramatic, he kissed your hand.

“The pleasure is all mine.” You returned his dramatic gesture with an over the top curtsy causing him to laugh. Though, you didn’t spend to long laughing due to the arm that slid around your shoulder.     

“Don’t pay him no mind doll, he does this with everyone, and I mean everyone, even me.”

“And who might you be exactly?” “Well you, can call me Albert.” “We all call ya Albert ya nitwit!” Shouted one of the boys from the table.

“Then I’m glad to be included?” You said, hesitantly. You weren’t sure if they were really including you or not.

“Any friend of Race’s is a friend of ours doll.” Another boy said from the table. Gosh, you were really going to have to get to know their names.

“That’s good to know, and I’m sorry for barging in on all of you like this. I needed to get away from my family for a bit.” “It’s alright girlie, bein able to see youse is a good enough apology.” Race said, sighing.

“I’ll make sure to return the favor someday.” “Ahh, no need. With everything youse been givin me lately it seems Ise owe you.” “Wait, Race, this goirl is the one that’s been givin you all the clothes and food and such?” Said somehow another boy from the table.

“Yeah, this is her. Ain’t she a gem?” He gave you a squeeze and you smiled.

“You sure youse ain’t gone soft Race?”

“I sure have, and lemme tell you, I love it.”

“Aww Race, are you saying you love me too?” “Maybe I am sweetheart.” This caused you to blush, you weren’t really sure what was going on between you and Race. You just went along with it, at first, out of fun, but later on you had developed feelings for him, and in fear of losing the relationship you had with Race, a relationship where he didn’t care about your money or your family status, he cared about you and your friendship. But now, he was saying he loved you. Sure you knew he cared about you, but love? Maybe he meant it platonically, like he loved you as a friend. But maybe he loved you romantically, and if he did, now would be the best time to tell him.

“Hey, (Y/N), sweetheart, you all right?”

“Good job Race, ya broke ‘er.” “Nah, she’s just thinkin, ain’tcha (Y/N)?”

“Race? I don’t think sh-” “I love you too Race.” You stated suddenly.

“What was that doll?” He seemed shocked at your sudden outburst after your silence. “You said you loved me and I said I love you too.” You said simply.

“Well I’ll be, looks like Race finally got himself a goirl!” This came from a new guy, who had just walked in. The confusion on your face was evident as Race introduced him promptly.

“(Y/N), this is Jack, the head of us newsies.” “Oh, it’s nice to meet you! I heard some pretty nice things about you.”

“Well the pleasure is all mine doll. And I would hope that Race speaks good of me.” He winked at you and you smiled, a ladies man just like Race said.

“He does, he speaks pretty highly of all of you, and actually, now that I’m here, this would be the best time to learn names.” “You know the Albert, Romeo, and Jack, so the one in the specs is Specs, the guy that looks like a cunning fox is Jojo, and Elmer’s the one at the end of the table not paying anyone any mind.” Each of the boys waved when Race had told you the names. “It’s nice to properly meet you all! I’m (Y/N) if you didn’t know already.” “Oh sweetheart, Race talks about you all the time, we have a pretty good idea of who you are.” Albert said as he walked back to the table.

“So you talk about me huh?” You questioned jokingly. “And with that I think we’ve had enough socializin so (Y/N) and I are gonna go get some sleep.” Race steered you buy your shoulders back to his room. As he did you heard Jack yell from back where the other boys were playing cards.

“Make sure ya keep ya hands to yaself Race!”

“Shaddup Jack!” Race yelled back.

“I apologize for them, they are usually like this and I didn’t warn ya.” Race said as you approached his room. He sat on his bed and put his head in his hands. “It’s fine Race, really.” You sat down next to him and rubbed his back. “They all seem like pretty nice guys. Just like you told me.”

“Yea, just, your comin from something with your own family and I don’t wanna add on to your stress, ya know? I wanna help.” “And you are helping! You let me in and let me stay and let me meet your family! Plus, you let me be open about my feelings. . .” You trailed off at the end of your sentence and reached for Race’s hand. You laced your fingers with his and began playing with them.

“Yeah, about that, Ise gotta know, did ya really mean it?”

“Of course I did, why would I ever lie about that? Why would I ever lie to you?”

“I know I know, but it just seems so, impossible? That someone like you could end up with someone like me.” “Race, take a look at the situation right now, does this seem impossible?” You wave your laced fingers in front of his face with a faint laugh.

“But what about your family?” “To hell with my family! If they don’t like you it doesn’t matter. I like you, love you, even.”

“You really willing to leave your family for me?” “I would, in a heartbeat. I would’ve sooner too had I known about your feelings earlier.”

“Now I wish I had told you earlier.” He leaned his head against your shoulder and exhaled heavily.

“Hows about we get some sleep huh? This has been pretty excitin and I need my beauty sleep.” “You’re already pretty enough Race.” Your voice was muffled by his hair.

“Aww, thanks doll. But I’m still tired.” He, to the best of his ability, flopped down onto the bed, his hand still in yours, effectively pulling you down with him. After you had fallen he had wrapped his arms around you.

“Goodnight (Y/N).” He whispered.

“It really has been, hasn’t it.” You whispered back.

THE NEXT DAY

Race had gotten up as usual, ready to sell papes, but when he tried to get up, there was a weight on his arms preventing that. Then he remembered how you had came in the window last night and everything after and opted to go back to sleep, deciding that after all the things you had given him, he really didn’t need to work for a few days. Though, out of habit, he couldn’t go back to sleep. So instead he just watched you. He watched your breathing and the sunlight being cast on your face and really looked at you. You were beautiful. And you were his. And he was yours. He wouldn’t have it any other way. After a while, he decided to wake you up, it would probably be better to get you back to your place sooner rather than later.

“Hey, (Y/N).” He said softly, trying to nudge you awake. He tried again, though a little more forcefully, and that seemed to get you up.

“Hmm?”

“Youse gotta get up (Y/N) and get back to your place.” “Why? It’s so warm here.” You snuggled up  closer to Race, and he sighed.

“Your parents is probably worried an’ waitin for ya.”

“I thought we were going to forget about my parents.” “Naw, we can’t do that. Theys still your family, and they gotta know youse is alright.” “Carry me home?” You looked up at him with your eyes wide and pouting.

“You gotta get up though.” As soon as he said that you finally found it in yourself to get out of Race’s bed.

“Your turn.” You said to him, making him laugh.

“Hold on, I gotta prepare for carryin you, it’s one thing to carry papes, anodda to carry a person.” You rolled your eyes and waited for him to get up. Once he did, he motioned for you to come stand behind him. You jumped onto his back and he caught your legs. He straightened up and proceeded to walk down the hallways and stairs until you were outside.

“Now sweetheart, I’m not exactly sure where ya live, so youse gotta give me some directions.” When he didn’t receive a response, he looked at your head which was on his shoulder, and you had fallen back asleep.

“For crying out loud.” He mumbled to himself. He shifted you on his back for a bit, and nearly dropped you. That seemed to get you to wake up.

“Ahhh! Race! What in the name of the lord? Why would you do that?” After he had brought you back up, you secured your arms and legs around him much tighter than before.

“You had fallen asleep, and I don’t know where you live exactly.” “Alright, just, don’t do that again, okay? You scared me.” “I’m sorry doll, I promise it’ll never happen again.” “Ok, I forgive you. Anyways, my house is down about three blocks from here, then you take a right and go another block, then you’re there.” “You live that close?”

“How do you think I got to the lodging house so quickly? And remember the first time we met? I walked you here and then walked home because it was so close.” “Ohhhhh.”

“Now shush, I’m trying to sleep.”

“Hey now, is that any way to treat the guy who is ever so graciously carrying you home?” He shifted you behind him again, and out of fear your grip tightened.

“That is not funny Race.” “It’s kinda funny.”

“You are impossible.” “But you still love me.” “I wouldn’t if you drop me.” “Don’t worry doll, if you do fall, which you won’t, I’ll be there to catch you and pick you up.” “Oh my hero.” By the time Race had brought you home, the sun had risen a bit more, making his blonde hair a beautiful shade of gold.

“Alright doll, time to hop off the ol Racetrack rail track.” He let go of your legs but this time you didn’t fall. You turned to face him to say goodbye.

“Thank you for taking me home Race, it was quite kind of you to do that.” “Oh anything for my goirl, right? Plus, now we’ve both walked eachother home. We’re even.” “On that field at least.” You chuckled.

“It’s kinda bittersweet, ain’t it? I’m takin you back to the people keepin us apart.”

“Hey, they aren’t keeping us apart, I’ll come visit you, and until then, you can have this to remember me.” You kissed his cheek sweetly, and he seemed to melt.

“And once we’re old enough, we can spend our lives together, alright? Nothing will keep us apart then.”

“Yeah, a nice house with just you an’ me.” He said dreamily as he pulled you closer towards him.

“Here’s something from me to hold you over till that happens.” He took your chin in his hand and brought his lips to yours. His kiss was much more passionate than the one you gave him. He put his forehead against yours and brought his hands to your face.

“I love you (Y/N) (L/N).”

“I love you, Racetrack I don’t know your last name.” He smiled at that.

“Higgins, it’s Higgins.”

“Well then I love you Racetrack Higgins. And I always will. But for now, I have to go. It’s been absolutely lovely.” You brought your hands up to his and intertwined your fingers. You gently pulled his hands away from your face and gave them a squeeze. Then you let go and left Race standing there bewildered at how he had ever managed to meet you.

You were able to sneak upstairs into your bedroom, and after all the excitement of the morning, you couldn’t fall asleep again. You didn’t have any work to do so you choose to take some time to read. That’s how your mother had found you after she woke up and came into your room.  

“Oh (Y/N)! Your home!” She gasped. She ran to your bed and enveloped you in a hug.

“Oh I was so worried about you after you stormed off I had no clue where you went and your father! Oh he was so scared you would get hurt out there! I’m just so glad your home dear.”

“You act as if I’ve been gone for weeks mother.” “Oh but that’s what it felt like dear!” “Well I’m back now and mother I must tell you I met this boy a wh-” “You met a boy! What was he like? Has he been like any of the suitors?” “Please, if he were like the suitors I would hardly give him the time of day.” “What problem do you have with them? There all fine, upstanding young men.” “They’re all arrogant, entitled, greedy, bratty children. They have no respect for anyone and are completely fine in expressing that. The boy I met may be a bit arrogant, but he’s got none of the other traits.” “Well who is he?”

“He’s a newsboy.” “A newsboy, really? Your father might not enjoy that fact.” “You know who would? Edward.” “(Y/N) please this is hardly the time to bring him up.” “You know it’s true. You know the respect he had for the working class. You know he wanted to support and protect us if there ever came a time for it.” “So he did, and you know what he got for it? Death.”

“The war wasn’t his fault!” “But he didn’t have to go and fight in it!” Your raised voices had brought your father to your room.

“What’s going on here? (Y/N)? Oh thank the stars you’re back! Did you mother tell you I was worried? Of course she did she’s your mother. But, truly, what is going on here?” “I’m in love with a newsboy. There. It’s been said. And I was having a disagreement with mother about how Edward would approve of it.” “There is something enticing about working, isn’t there.” “George! Don’t encourage her!”

“What? She clearly hasn’t liked any of the suitors so why can’t she choose her own lover?”

“Well, that’s a fair point, but still George shouldn’t we-” “Mary, I really don’t think there’s any way to change her mind. You saw how she took the disrespect of the newsboys last night.” “Yet I worry still. I just want you to have a nice life is all dear.”

“I know mother, and just because I’m in love with a newsboy, who does happen to have a name, Race, doesn’t mean I won’t live a nice life. I don’t want to leave this family for good!”

“Alright dear, if you truly love him, who I am to stop you.”

“Oh thank you mother, thank you father.”

Though the day had started out bright, it became gray soon after. You didn’t mind, the rain was calming to you and a nice thing to read to. Your little bubble was broken when you heard knocking on the door downstairs.

“I’ll get it!” You rushed downstairs as quick as you could, you didn’t want to leave whoever was the door wait out in the rain for long. You opened the door to see quite a familiar face.

“Race? What are you doing here?”

“Ise was in the neighborhood, and got caught in the rain.” “Oh my god, well come in! Don’t just stand there!” You ushered him in and lead him to the parlor. You went to grab a towel for him and took out some soup for him. When you came back he seemed smaller and kind of uncomfortable as he looked around. You handed him the towel and offered him a seat.

“Here, dry yourself off and have a seat, I’ve got some soup I’m about to put on to keep you from getting sick.” “Wow, thanks, youse uh, didn’t need to do all this ya, know. Ise wasn’t out in the rain for more than 5 minutes.” “Race, your shivering. I’m getting you that soup.” You got up to go back into the kitchen to make the soup. It was simple enough and ready quickly, you let it cool only a bit before bringing it to Race.

“Here, eat.”

“Alright boss, I’m eatin.” He ate the soup and stopped shivering.

“So, what brings you out here?” You sat next to him as he ate. “Ise was doing what you do, takin a walk.”

“And you just so happened to end up here?” “I did, as a matter o fact.”

“I guess rainy days are our special days, huh?” “How do ya mean?” “We met on a rainy day, and today, another rainy day, was our first kiss and now here you are.” “I guess youse is right.” “When am I wrong?” You smiled and leaned into him. He brought his slightly damp arm around you, pulling you closer to him.

“You’re so warm doll, like a heated blanket, care to warm me up?” “Sure.” You pushed Race down on the sofa and climbed on top of him, splaying yourself over him to warm him up.

“Hey, how many times do I gotta thank you for everything you do? Cuz I’m thankin youse again.”

“I’m not sure Race, all I know is that I’m never going to stop helping you, so maybe that means you’ll never stop thanking me.” “I can see the headline now, ‘man thanks himself to death’.” “And do tell, what’s the actual headline?”

You had been living in your new apartment for almost a year. You moved in with your roommates, JoJo, Albert, and Race, when you were eighteen, after a very bad breakup.

It took you about seven months for you to get used to them being all wild and crazy, but you really enjoyed their enthusiasm now.

Race was your best friend now. At first, he didn’t really want you in the apartment. You didn’t know why, but the other guys did. He was scared he was going to fall in love with you.

He did.

“What are we doing tonight?” You ask, sitting down on the couch, next to Race, throwing your legs onto his lap.

“How about a nice old game of truth or dare.” JoJo offers before taking a swig out of his cup.

You were always down for a game of truth or dare, even at nineteen years old. You believed you had to be crazy to not want to play truth or dare.

Hours had passed, JoJo and Albert were drunk and laughing their heads off, Race was sober, and you were slightly buzzed.

JoJo had just finished running around the apartment complex with his pants on his head-cause that’s funny to drunk people...and sometimes sober people as well, and it was Race’s turn.

“Racer, truth or dare.”

“I’ll take a dare.”

“Alright, seven minutes in heaven, with (Y/N).” Albert said, laughing.

“Is that alright, (Y/N)?”

“For sure, let’s go.”

You both started to walk away to a place where it could be closed off and private. As you turned around, you saw the door move in front of you as it slammed shut.

“You guys aren’t allowed out until you kiss.” JoJo snickered.

The two of them slowly started to chant “kiss! kiss! kiss! kiss!” You felt your cheeks flush.

“Well, Higgins, what are you waiting for. Just get it done and over with.”

He looked down at you, and started to lean in, making a sort of face as he got closer.

“No! You can’t come in like that,” you giggled.

“Then how do you want me to?”

“Not like that! Obviously!”

Race contemplated how he was going to kiss you. The chanting from the boys grew louder, and seven minutes had definetly passed.

“Let’s just get it done and over with, Higgins. What’s the big deal?”

“Nothing. It’s nothing!”

“Then just kiss me!”

“No! Not like this!”

You looked at him.

“Not like this? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Nothing! It means nothing. Let’s just get out of here.”

He walked over to the door and knocked on it.

“Did you kiss?” Albert chuckled.

“No-just get us out of here, Alb. Please?”

“For money maybe….”

“Fine, please just let us out.”

The door opened and Race reached into his pocket and pulled out a twenty, folding it and putting in Albert’s palm.

“Well, I’m calling it a night cause I’m going to be miserable tomorrow,” JoJo slurred.

“Me too,” Albert said.

They walked over to their rooms, and you quickly went to yours to get ready for bed and avoid Race.

After getting in your pajamas, you went over to the bathroom to get your glasses on and brush your teeth. After you finished the daily routine, you ran into Race on your way back.

“Oh sorry,” you sighed.

“No big deal,” he replied.

“Well….goodnight Higgins.”

“Goodnight, (L/N).”

You started walking back to your room, before you felt a slight tug on your arm. You felt yourself in Race’s arms, who quickly placed a kiss on your lips. You wanted this just as badly as he did, and you grabbed onto his shirt, pulling him closer to you.

It was magical.

You pulled away, stunned at what had just happened.

“I meant...I meant like that, (Y/N).”

You couldn’t believe it. You felt tears form as you tried to find the words to say.

“Washington…” you looked up at him. “Are you going to?”

“I’m not sure. I love New York, but I don’t want to mess up my relationship with my dad...it only started to work out. It would’ve been what my mom wanted.”

“I…” you breathed in, wiping away some tears. “I think you should do what you feel you need to do, Race. Whatever your heart feels it needs to do.”

“Thank you for being understanding (Y/N),” he climbed up the ladder and sat down next to you. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

He wrapped his arm around you and pulled you in closer to him, pressing his lips to your temple.

New York to Washington. All the way across the US...I have to pretend I’m okay with it...for Race.

You woke up the next morning, still wrapped in Race’s arms. He started to stir, but you didn’t want to wake him up completely, so you moved his arm off of you carefully and walked down from the bunk bed to the kitchen.

Mike and Ike were eating some cereal with Smalls next to them.

“You good (Y/N)? Your eyes are puffy and red.” Mike pointed out.

“Yeah, it looks like you’ve been crying.” Ike added.

Your hand flew to your face, your fingers running over the bottom of your eyes, feeling the skin.

“No, I’m all good.” you explained.

“You ready for the wedding?” Smalls asked you, as you grabbed a cereal box from a cabinet and a bowl as well.

“Yeah. I guess I’m just happy that my dad is going to be happy again.”

The three of them nodded their heads and you sat by them and ate your cereal.

I wonder if Race has told anybody else about Washington, you thought to yourself.

The kid always seemed to know what you were thinking. Race walked in, still dressed in his suit.

“Morning sweetheart,” he said, pressing his lips to your cheek and walking to the fridge. “Hey, can everybody get in here. I need to tell you guys something.”

Slowly, the rest of the group filed into the kitchen, groggily, rubbing their eyes and yawning.

“Race, it’s early, what is it?” Jack asked, hand in hand with Katherine, who still looked half asleep.

“Everybody in here?” he asked, looking around the room. “Alright, so as you all know, my dad has recently become a bigger part of my life now that he’s back in New York. Well, his living situation is permanent and his job is transferring him to Washington...and he wants me to move with him.”

The room went completely quiet and everybody’s face dropped. You felt Katherine put her arm around you and Smalls grabbed a hold of your hand.

“Are you going to?” JoJo asked, breaking the silence.

“I’m not sure,” Race said “I’m still deciding.”

“Race you can’t. The apartment...this friend group, it won’t be the same without you,” Albet complained.

“I still haven’t chosen, alright everybody. I just need some time.”

“When is your dad officially moving away?”

“He wants me to tell him by tomorrow morning. He leaves this weekend.”

The group all exchanged looks, but you kept your eyes locked with Race. You felt the tears form once more and you bit your lip in order to keep from crying.

If he sees me crying, he’ll choose New York. He’ll choose to stay and then he’ll probably never see his dad again. I can’t be the reason they have a broken relationship and Mr. Higgins isn’t apart of Race’s life…

“Ok guys. Let’s stop worrying about this whole Washington ordeal. We have a wedding to go too. We need to let Race choose on his own.” Jack said, getting a silent ‘thank you’ from Race.

You got up from your seat and put your cereal bowl in the sink, then left the apartment, Katherine following close behind you.

“Are you okay? About all of this?” she asked.

“Do you want the truth or should I just fake that I’m fine for you as well?” you asked, turning to Katherine, tears starting to spill.

She rushed to your side, holding you close as you cried.

“I can’t have him choose to stay. If he stays, then he might never see his dad again. And it will be my fault that he doesn’t have a good relationship with his dad.”

“Hey hey hey, (Y/N), it will not be your fault if he chooses New York. His dad only recently came back into his life. If he had a bad relationship with his dad, it wouldn’t be your fault. Not in a million years. It would be his father’s fault because he abandoned him seventeen years ago, alright. Now stop crying. We’ve got a wedding to go to.”

You nodded your head and wiped away your tears, putting a smile on your face as Katherine and you walked to her car.

While Katherine had to run home and get her dress, curling iron and makeup, you were almost ready, having slept in your dress the night before. Re-doing the makeup might be a good idea since it was mostly smudged from crying, and you needed to do your hair since it was a mess from the night before.

5:00 p.m.-The Wedding

You stood by Katherine, your dad across from the two of you. You were in line with a couple of Lydia’s friends and a sister or two. You gripped onto the bouquet with one hand, and held onto Katherine’s with the other, as Lydia started to walk down the aisle and everybody in the audience was standing up.

Race was in the front row, closest to you, Jack sitting next to him. On the other side of Race was Mr. Higgins, whom Race was looking a lot like as they were wearing almost matching suits.

Everybody sat down as Lydia reached your father and handed the bouquet to Katherine. Then the wedding officially started, as the wedding officiant read things and said things...all which you zoned out of almost completely-until the vows.

“After my wife passed away, I never thought I’d get another chance at love. I thought that nobody else could be a mother to my girls. But then Lydia, I met you. I knew that you were my second chance at love. The girls love you. You’re so good to them. You’re so good for me,” you looked at Race with tears in your eyes.

He locked eyes with you and mouthed the words: ‘I love you,” and then he started to mouth what your dad was saying

“I swear that no matter what. No matter where life takes us, I choose you. I will always choose you. Nothing can change my mind about that. Nothing will keep us apart.”

Then Lydia said her vows, and the wedding officiant declared them husband and wife.

The crowd cheered as they kissed and Katherine handed Lydia her bouquet, then joined Jack.

Race turned to his father as the rest of the crowd moved away inside the venue, where food was being served as well as dancing to start. You joined Katherine and Jack and walked into the venue, hooking onto a line for the food as Lydia and your father sat down at the main table.

7:00 p.m.

Your dad and Lydia had just finished their first dance as husband and wife as Katherine and the multiple women joined them on the dance floor for the bouquet toss. You would’ve joined the, but figured that you wouldn’t catch it. As it was tossed, the women lunged into the air, all trying to grab it, but it landed perfectly in Katherine’s hands, making you explode with laughter.

“I guess this is good a time as it can get,” Jack said, running out to the dance floor.

Your dad and Lydia turn to Katherine.

“We’re engaged…” Katherine said, holding hands with Jack.

The crowd all gasped in shock and the boys were even more surprised.

Katherine pulled on the chain with her ring, rubbing the diamond with her finger.

“I give you my blessing,” your dad says.

“Seriously?! Thank you dad,” Katherine gives your dad a hug and then turns to Jack and kisses him.

She then takes her necklace off and takes the ring off the chain and Jack slides it onto her finger.

Then everyone starts to dance again, Jack and Katherine holding each other close.

Tommy Boy and Smalls joined them, Les and his date, Specs and Sarah-the same couples as the night before. Mr. and Mrs. Jacob’s joined the floor as well, embarassing Davey a bit.

You felt a tap on your shoulder and turned to see Race.

“I think we’ve got to dance...show them how it’s done, you know?”

“I know.”

You stood up and he grabbed your hand in his, intertwining fingers. A slow song started and he pulled you closer. This time, you threw both of your arms around his shoulder, both his hand resting on your hips.

“So, I made my choice.” Race says as he spins you around.

“And?”

“I choose you. That’s what I said during the vows….”

“So you choose New York?”

“No, (Y/N), I choose you. I love you so much, and my father agrees that it might be best that I stay here. It’s what I know. Born and raised. He said he’ll fly out every couple of months and come visit, that it won’t ruin our relationship.”

“Really Race?”

“I’ll always choose you.”

He presses his lips to yours, and by some coincidence, the fireworks you and Katherine chose, start to go off, making you pull back and smile.

“I choose you too.”

The End<3

Can't believe you're packing your bags

Trying so hard not to cry

Had the best time, and now it's the worst time

But we have to say goodbye

Summer had been perfect. It was going to be your last summer before going off to college, and it was going to be spent at the same old beach that your past summers had.

But it had been different in a way. Thanks to Racetrack Higgins.

The two of you hit it of immediately. He was from out of town, visiting your beach, in a beach house right next to yours. What were the odds? You spent everyday together, exploring parts of your city you had never been too, swimming in the ocean, doing everything together. It was like the beginning sequence in Grease.

But every summer comes to an end.

Don't promise that you're gonna write

Don't promise that you'll call

Just promise that you won't forget we had it all

You ran to the beach house on his last day, trying not to cry. You decided to help him pack, but it didn’t help the sadness in your heart one bit.

“Race, I’ll text you everyday. We can call.”

“(Y/N), we had everything this summer. The minute I leave, it won’t be the same. You’ll start school all over again and find another guy. I’ll never forget you.”

'Cause you were mine for the summer

Now we know it's nearly over

Feels like snow in September

But I always will remember

You were my summer love

You always will be my summer love

You couldn’t help but wish this was like Grease. That he’d show up at your school the first day and you’d continue your relationship.

But real life isn’t like what you see in the movies or read in the books. Life is rarely that perfect.

You tried to help him pack, but needed a distraction from the heart-wrenching fact that he was leaving in less than a day.

“Race, there’s no way we could explore one last time.”

“We leave in an hour,” Race explained. “I’m sorry. I don’t want to leave, believe me. I’d stay here forever if I could. But hey, when my friends ask about how summer was, they’ll hear all about you, get annoyed by Racer’s summer love.”

Wish that we could be alone now

We could find some place to hide

Make the last time just like the first time

Push a button and rewind

He finished packing, but there was still time left. Your lips soon enough found their way to his, and you wish that they would never have to part. If you had it your way, they wouldn’t. If you had it your way, he wouldn’t be leaving.

You were walking with your best friends at the beach, living it up on the first official day of summer. You were discussing the upcoming end of school year party that night. You were so distracted, you didn’t pay attention to the blond you were about to bump into.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” you say, looking up and locking eyes with a blond boy with gorgeous eyes.

“It’s all good,” he extended his hand. “I’m Race. I’m staying in the beach house right there.”

He pointed to the house that was next to yours.

“Oh how cool! I’m (Y/N), and I live in that house, right there. Year round.”

You point to your house.

“Then I’ll be seeing you around, (Y/N),”

“Well...you can come to a party with us tonight. We’ll pick you up-8:30?”

“Sounds good,” he says with a wink and walks off.

“Nice going (Y/N/N).” (Y/F/N) says.

Don't say the word that's on your lips

Don't look at me that way

Just promise you'll remember when the sky is grey

The time came. The time for him to leave.

You walked him to the car, giving quick hugs to his parents.

“(Y/N), please don’t give me that look. You give me that look and I’ll never leave.”

You opened your mouth to say something.

“No, don’t say it. I know what you’re going to say. If you say it, I might consider it.”

So please don't make this any harder

We can't take this any farther

And I know there's nothing that I want to change, to change

So you continued to look at the ground, trying to get in one last word for him to remember you by, but all you could do was feel the tears well up in your eyes.

“Please don’t, (Y/N). It’ll be harder for the both of us if you do.”

You threw your arms around him one last time. You wouldn’t change a thing, wouldn’t have this summer romance with anybody else. You knew that you couldn’t do anything with the relationship.

He squeezed you tightly, and gave you a soft peck before letting go of you, whispering a “I love you” into your ear, and climbing into the car.

'Cause you were mine for the summer

Now we know it's nearly over

Feels like snow in September

But I always will remember

You were my summer love (summer love)

You always will be my summer love (summer love)

You always will be my summer love (yeah)

You always will be my summer love

You watched the car drive off, telling yourself not to run off after it.

Once it was far from view, you walked back to your house. You had senior year to prepare for. College to start getting ready for, and graduation, and all the things for your future.

A year later, campus tour:

You looked at the people in your campus tour. One boy, tall and blond, was practically burning holes staring at you. He looked familiar. There was something about him.

“(Y/N) (L/N), always knew we’d meet again.” Race said, walking over to you with a smirk.

-you were Spot’s little sister

+and though you knew how to fend for yourself, that boy is dang protective of you

-all the newsies in Brooklyn know not to hurt you

+and those that give you papers won’t mess with you like they do the other newsies in fear of Spot hurting them

-when Jack came to Spot, begging for help with their strike, you begged with them

+you respected the Manhatten newsies a lot

+you were really frustrated when Spot turned them away

-give it a few days and next thing you know, the rest of the newsies are packing up and leaving at maybe like 5 in the morning

-you’re extremely confused so you get up and run to where Spot sleep

+“Spot, where are you goin’? Where is everybody goin’?”

+“Manhatten, you stay here, it’s safer.”

+“Spot. No. I’m goin’ wit you. Brooklyn newsies stay together.”

+“Yeah, of course, but if you get hurt, that’s on me.”

+“I’ll stay safe. I promise Spot. Just let me come with you.”

+“Fine. Hurry up and get ready.”

-the trek to Manhatten wasn’t too long so you got there soon

-Spot found the lodge house and practically busted the door down

+the newsies were getting ready to sell so they saw the door and practically scrambled up the stairs

-one stays at the bottom of the stairs, all blond curly hair peeking out from underneath his hat, and blue eyes sparkling

+he notices you too

+“Hiya doll.” he mutters, putting a cigar in his mouth, walking closer to you

+“Watch it Racer, she’s Spot’s sistah.” another boy says with crazy red hair

+a look of fear rushes across Racer’s face, making you laugh

+Spot is annoyed

-Race walks up to Spot and looks down at him

+the height difference makes you laugh a little bit

+ “So, Spot, I hear you’se da King of Brooklyn,” he says. “Well, you better not be lookin’ for an upgrade, ‘cause I’m da King of New York”

+this kid is wearing a wild grin until Spot cracks his knuckles, in which the boy backs down

-a more nerdy boy runs through the door and comes face to face with your brother

+he’s just as terrified as the other boys

+you remember him as Davey and go up to him and shake his hand

+“Spot, what are you doing here?”

+ “We’re here to help you. A rally tonight. ‘Cause  we’re all here, da other newsies of New York will come. Your welcome.”

+ “Seriously? I need to find Jack. We’ll be there tonight.”

-Davey books it out of the lodge and you look around with the same cold stare that Spot wears

+“Don’t go to work boys. We’re gettin’ ready for tonight.”

-the rest of the day is spent getting the word out to the other newsies

+the blonde boy, Racer, sticks to your side like glue

+ “Spot Conlon’s sister, huh? That ought da be fun.”

+ “It is...most times. He’s pretty overprotective. I wasn’t s’posed to come to Manhatten wit everybody else. He thought it was to dangerous.”

+ “Well...if it gets dangerous, I can protect you.”

+only now do you realize he’s inching closer to your face and you kind of start to move just a little bit closer as well

+your noses are almost touching when Race is almost thrown away from you

+ “Hey Racer, stay away from my sister.”

+Spot cracks his knuckles just to show that he’s not messing around and Race scrambles up and runs away

-you’re obviously frustrated

+“Spot….seriously? You have to scare every boy away?”

+“He’s a playa’, (Y/N), isn’t it obvious.”

+“Ay, I don’t care. He’s cute.”

-you push Spot out of the way and run after Race

-so at this point, it’s obvious to everyone that Racer’s got a crush on the King of Brooklyn’s little sister

+you guys have known each other for only like three hours

+but still, he’s got it bad for you

-the rally happens

+Jack shows up after being gone for a couple days

+and next thing he knows he’s saying to call of the strike and gets paid by a bunch of guys

-Spot is livid

+tells all the Brooklyn newsies to get out of here

+which includes you

-Race begs you to stay

+so while all the other newsies leave, you sneak into the lodge

+Spot is staying in a room there, but what he doesn’t know, won’t hurt him

-Race and you stay up the whole night, on a terrace underneath the penthouse where the infamous Jack Kelly sleeps

+because you stayed up so late, you are able to see Katherine and Jack up on the penthouse

+you see their whole romantic situation and how Katherine now has an idea about what to do for the strike

-before they can tell all the newsies, you and Race run in, waking up everyone in the lodge

+Spot walks in, very groggy, rubbing his eyes

+and when he adjusts to everything in the room, the first thing he sees is you and Race, hand in hand

+“(Y/N)! You were s’posed to go back with da boys!”

+“Yeah, I was s’posed to, but I didn’t!”

+“(Y/N), you go home right now!”

+ “No, I said I’d help the newsies here, and I’m going to..anyway. Jack and Katherine know how to help with the strike!”

-right as you say that, Jack and Katherine walk down, hand in hand

-the newsies all crowd around to hear the plan

+then they all get dressed and start to head out for the printing press

-Spot tells you to stay at the lodge until the circulation bell rings, or someone comes and gets you

+then he leaves

+Race comes up to you, giving you a quick hug

+“Good luck Racer”

+you give him a small peck on the cheek, leaving him flustered and with a smirk on his face

-you stay up the whole time everybody’s gone, on edge about what might just happen next

+around nine, a shorter and younger boy, Les runs into the lodge with Elmer, you believe, to come get you

-they take you to newsie square, where Jack is with the the Theodore Roosevelt as well as Pulitizer, announcing that you won

+everybody cheers

+the square is super crowded, and you just want to find Race

-you look over and see Jack and Katherine kissing

+not a surprise to you since you saw it the night before

+and you feel a tap on your shoulder

+you turn around and it’s Race

+ “Heya doll.”

+ “Hey Racer.”

-next thing you know, you’re in a dip, Race’s lips on yours and you kiss back, despite your brother probably being around, ready to beat Race up

+once Race and you part, he brings you back up from the dip and pumps his fist in the air

tag// @ben-cook-can-cook @maiawakening @king-of-newyork @broadwayandbookblog @infinity-fandom-trash @and-a-snip @kingsofyewnork @blytheandherbrain @newsienewsie @verymerrycherry @newsies-seize-the-day​ @races-erster @king-of-new-yoirk @rainbow-anon​ @percyjacksonlover2109​ @brunette-kween​ @justgivemehalfacup​ @purplelittlepup​

QOTP: If you were a sibling of a Newsie, who’s sibling would you like to be?

You were doing your monthly cemetery trip, visiting your grandpa’s grave site with fresh flowers. He always did like the flowers you brought him whenever you visited him, so whenever you brought flowers to his grave, you got a variety.

You knelt down by the grave and replaced the old flowers with the new ones in your hand.

You looked off at the other graves, and saw the same blond boy you always saw whenever you came.

From the moment you saw him, almost seven months ago, a month after your grandpa had passed away, you were always curious as to who this boy is. You would occasionally make eye contact with him, his dazzling blue eyes winking at you. He came off as if he was all put together, which was odd for you. You always shed a couple of tears whenever you visited the grave, as you and your grandpa were very close.

But this time was different.

Though the boy was far away, you could see his shoulders moving up and down, as if he was sobbing. His hands covered his eyes, and if it was quiet enough around you, you could hear a slight whine.

You looked down at the grave, then pushed yourself off the ground, and slowly walked a small distance over to the blond boy.

As you approached him, he moved his hands away from his eyes, rubbing them, and then looking around. He saw you and immediately looked down. Once you got closer, you could tell that he was indeed crying.

His eyes were red and puffy, and tears were forming in the corner of his eyes. There was still a trace of tears on his cheek, which he had failed to wipe away.

“Hi, I’m (Y/N)....we see each other a lot here, which obviously you know…”you started to ramble. “Are you alright?”

“I’m Race...and yeah I’m fine. What made you think there’s something wrong?” he sniffled.

“Uhh...you just looked like you were crying, while I was over there.” you motioned to the vicinity where your grandpa’s grave was.

“Well, you thought wrong. I don’t cry.”

Race got up off his knees and brushed dirt of his pants. He then just looked at you, making the silence incredibly awkward, incredibly fast.

Dang, this boy is stubborn...and cute. Cut it out, (Y/N)! No time to think like that, you thought to yourself.

Before fully thinking about it, you pushed yourself into Race’s body, wrapping your arms around his torso and squeezing tightly, not wanting to let go. Race gradually put his arms around you, letting his his face fall forward, letting out a sigh, and soon enough, some tears once more.

“My...my mom passed away...fifteen years ago today...I was pretty young. My dad was gone as soon as I was born...just up and left. And then my mom...I loved her more than anything. She was all I had…”

“What did you do...when she passed away?”

You started to pull away, but the boy wouldn’t let go, so you, not so reluctantly, hugged him more.

“I moved in with my grandparents, but they passed away, when I was, maybe ten, in a span of couple months. That’s when I found Jack. He was about twelve, and he took me in. Gave me a home, food, a family. But, I still miss my mom...more than anything.”

“I get that,” you muttered into his chest.

His chin now rested on your head, and you could feel tears roll of his cheeks into your hair.

“Listen Race. I’m going to give you my number,” you pushed the boy off of you so you could face him, grabbing his hands in yours. “And we’re going to hang out...and I’m going to be here whenever you need me. We’ve both lost someone, near and dear to our hearts, and we need somebody that we can talk to about this kind of stuff, alright?”

Race looked down at you, a smile on his tear stained face.

“That sounds amazing. Thank you, (Y/N).”

You gave him his number and parted with one last hug, then you walked away and got into your car.

Before you started the car, you got a text.

Hey, this is Race...thanks for cheering me up. We’re going to go on a date...because I like being around you...a lot.