"Now can I have it back?" Gabi whispered into Bumlets’ ear.

"Have what back?" Bumlets asked, pulling her closer. He kissed her forehead, not quite sure of himself, or what had just happened.

"My necklace," Gabi answered. Running her fingers over his chest, Gabi turned and looked up at him.

"I dunno. What happens if I give it to ya? Ya gonna take off?" Bumlets asked, only half-teasing. Just yesterday he’d stolen this strange girl’s necklace, and now he was sitting beside her atop the roof, holding her in his arms.

"Take off? I’m not going anywhere, that is, unless you want me to," she said, unsure of how he truly felt about her. This whole evening had been a big blur in her mind. Hours ago she had hated the man that lay here with her, or so she thought. Now she didn’t want him to ever leave her side.

Bumlets answered her with a deep kiss. Once they came up for air, Gabi rested her head gently across his chest, her eyes feeling heavier by the second.

"Night Priss," Bumlets whispered through a yawn.

"Night thief."

****

"Luna, ya comin’?" Spot asked. The poker game ended around midnight, and most of the Newsies were already heading upstairs to retire for the evening.

"I think I’m gonna stay in Manhattan tanight, Spot. You go on back," Luna answered.

"Ya sure?" he asked. Spot was growing more and more concerned for her well-being over the past few days.

Laughing, Luna shook her head. "No Spot, I ain’t sure. Now get goin’," she instructed.

Spot hesitated, but finally took himself outside. He was having that weird feeling again. The one of wanting to be close to Luna, but he knew he couldn’t. It wasn’t right. Luna was for Peter, and even though Peter was gone, he couldn’t do that to his brother. But would he want us ta be happy? I wish I could make Luna happy again. Spot trudged back to Brooklyn, thoughts of Peter and Luna overtaking his mind the entire way back.

"C’mon Luna," Slinks smiled. "I got a bunk right next ta mine ya can have."

Smiling, Luna followed Slinks up the stairs. "Feels good ta be away from da Mutt for a night," she joked. In reality Luna felt a loss once Spot walked out that door, but kept it bottled up inside.

"Now don’t be bossin’ us around," Slinks teased. "Jade’s da boss here. Ya get da day off."

"Oh, right," Luna smirked before heading into the bunkroom. She plopped down on the bunk and set both slingshots on the table.

"Ya got two now?" Silk asked as she walked by.

"Well, one’s Spot’s. I’m just watchin’ it for him for awhile."

"Ya got a bet goin’ wit him or sumptin’?" Silk asked. "Seein’ how long he can go witout it?"

Luna nodded. "Yeah, sumptin’ like dat." She yawned and stretched out on the bed, hoping for a night devoid of any dreams.

****

Gabi shifted in her sleep, and when she felt arms around her, quickly opened her eyes. Once focused, Gabi made out the sleepy figure of Bumlets beside her and smiled. He looked so peaceful like that and the last thing she wanted to do was disturb him.

Gently she slipped out of his arms and gathered up her clothes. She needed some fresh air, and time to think about what had just transpired that night.

She made her way towards the edge of the roof and stole one last look at Bumlets before heading down to the bunkroom. She crept through the room silently, her faint footsteps being drowned out by the sounds of the girls’ breathing.

Once she neared the door, two objects caught her attention in the faint moonlight. That must be Spot’s slingshot. Without thinking, she picked it up, and dashed out of the room.

Luna tossed and turned in her bunk, and finally she awoke with a loud thud. She had tossed right out of the bed.

"Luna? Hey, ya alright?" Slinks asked, rubbing her eyes.

"Uh, yeah, fine Slinks. Go back ta bed," Luna answered from the floor. What a dream - it was so vivid, just like before. Dis sword thing - what could it be?

"Ya sure, Luna?" Slinks returned in a whisper. Something had been wrong these past few weeks, and Slinks knew it, but she couldn’t force the issue. Luna would come to her when she was ready to.

"Yeah, I’m sure." Luna slowly climbed back into bed. In her dreams, she had witnessed as a thief stole an ancient sword. She felt as if her duty was to protect it, but all she could do was stand there and watch it happen. I gotta find out what dis all means. Closing her eyes, Luna didn’t notice that there was one less slingshot on the nightstand. She was too engrossed in what her dream had meant.

****

Gabi roamed the dark streets for an hour, losing her way back to the lodging house, but far too occupied to notice. Her encounter with Bumlets played over in her mind, and she absentmindedly played with the rubber strap on the slingshot as she continued on.

How can I possibly go home now? What will happen with Christopher? And what on earth would my parents think of me dating a Newsie. Frowning, Gabi moved on to think of much happier things that didn’t include the unavoidable future she would endure.

She kicked a pebble and decided it was time to see what this slingshot was made of. Carefully choosing her ammo, Gabi placed a small pebble in the strap and pulled back, searching for a decent target. Seeing a lamp post in the distance, Gabi aimed and quickly let go, satisfied when the pebble made direct contact with the post. This is easier than I thought.

A breeze brushed by her hair and Gabi smelled the unmistakable aroma of water nearby. Well, while I’m out, might as well take a look down by the docks. Slipping the slingshot in her back pocket, Gabi wandered down by the water. She wanted to go sit down by the dock’s edge, but the noise in the distance stopped her. Turning, she saw several dark figures in the moonlight, all carrying boxes to a nearby boat.

"What the hell are they doing at this late hour?" she mused. Letting her curiosity get the best of her, Gabi crept towards their location, keeping herself hidden by the mountains of crates along the way.

When she was up close enough, Gabi peered out from behind the crates once more, and tried to make out the figures in the moonlight. She could have sworn one looked like Christopher, but just as she was about to get a closer look, she heard someone moan.

"Oh shit," Gabi muttered and whipped around, thinking she was caught. Instead her mouth dropped at the sight of Mayhem tied up against a wall. "Mayhem, that you?"

"Mmph," came the reply.

"Crap, May, what happened?" Gabi asked when she got closer, though she was fully aware that with a bandanna around her mouth, Mayhem couldn’t exactly spout details.

May rolled her eyes, since she couldn’t answer, and gave Gabi a look that screamed ‘get off your lazy ass and help me out here’. She impatiently motioned for Gabi to untie her from the ropes.

Once Mayhem was free, she struggled to stay upright. The men that had tied her up had a little fun first, and Mayhem was nearly bruised from head to toe. Gabi grabbed her before she could fall and swung one of Mayhem’s arms around her shoulder. "Good thing I found you," Gabi smiled.

Mayhem nodded her head, though she couldn’t get out the word ‘thanks’. She figured Gabi was only in it for the recognition she would get back at the lodging house. "Yeah, good thing," she mumbled. Of all da people in dis woild, why did she have ta be da one ta save me?

"Needed someone to get me back to the lodging house. You’ll do," Gabi smirked, making Mayhem’s mouth quirk into a tiny, but noticeable smile.

Slowly the two started to hobble away from the docks, both thinking that they were undetected thanks to the dark night and the abundance of boxes. Unfortunately for them, Gabi lost her grip of Mayhem for a moment, and they banged into one of the many crates. They could hear voices in the distance, shouting to go check out the noise.

"Now would be the time ta run," Mayhem stated, pulling herself upright again despite the pain.

"Well let’s go then!" Gabi cried and took off with Mayhem right behind her.

Gabi could hear footsteps pounding on the docks behind them. "Hurry up, they’re gaining on us!"

"Seems to be my lucky day," Mayhem huffed between heavy breathing. "Looks like we're in for some fun."

"Well, run faster," Gabi urged, and saw Mayhem shoot her an icy glare.

"I thought I already was, smart ass."

Rolling her eyes, Gabi grabbed Mayhem’s arm and pulled her along. She knew May was in pain, but she’d be in a lot more if they were caught. She glanced back, seeing two rather large figures coming closer and then remembered what she had stolen earlier. She knew that Mayhem could use this to blackmail her later, since Luna would not be amused, and neither would Spot, but it seemed their only hope. Gabi let go of Mayhem and bent down and pick up a fistful of stones.

"What da hell are you doin’?!" Mayhem cried. "We don’t have time ta play hopscotch!"

Whipping out the slingshot from her back pocket, Gabi didn’t pay Mayhem’s comment any heed. "Just keep going!" she shouted.

"Suit yerself," May answered and took off down the street.

Gabi shoved the stones in her pocket, leaving two out. Placing them hurriedly in the slingshot, she aimed for the men running towards her and let go.

"Uh oh," Gabi muttered. She must have missed, for she heard no cries from either of her chasers, and they certainly hadn’t stopped running. Gauging the distance between her and the men, Gabi tried once more, this time taking a deep breath first, and concentrating on her target.

The stones pierced through the air in front of her, and much to her satisfaction she heard a cry of pain coming from one of the men. While his running abilities were hindered, the other merely stopped for a second, surmising the situation before running towards Gabi again.

"Damn it," Gabi breathed heavily and took out the remaining stones from her pocket. Her mind screamed for her to hurry up and Gabi obeyed, letting the slingshot go with one quick motion.

To her delight, she heard the other attacker yell in anguish, but then noticed that the first man was running again. Cursing her luck, Gabi shoved the slingshot back into her pocket and took off down the street.

The footsteps still coming behind her, though slower this time, Gabi burst into a sprint, hoping that her legs wouldn’t give out any time soon. The faster she went, the lighter the footsteps pounded in the distance, until the only sounds she could hear were the laughs of the late-night drunks by a nearby tavern.

Gabi stopped and leaned over, throwing her hands on her knees to catch her breath. It occurred to her that she had no idea where she was, or how to get back to the lodging house. "Well this is just great," she mumbled and leaned against a lamppost. She squinted to see the name of the street, but she didn’t know what good that would do, considering she hadn’t a clue what street the lodging house was on. She cursed herself for concentrating on Bumlets the first day he took her to that lodging house, instead of where he was leading her.

She sighed at the thought of Bumlets. He would wake up to find her missing, and probably suspect the worst. Somehow Gabi had to make it back to that lodging house before he woke up.

"You look like a pathetic lost little puppy," spoke a familiar voice from the shadows of a dark alley.

Gabi turned to see Mayhem, hunched over against the wall in the alley. She was breathing heavily, and holding one shoulder with her hand. "Nice to see you too," Gabi retorted and sighed in relief. Maybe we can make it back without Bumlets even knowing I took off in the first place.

"Ya took Spot’s slingshot, didn’t ya?" May asked and limped out of the alley.

"So what if I did?" Gabi shrugged her shoulders and walked towards Mayhem.

"He don’t exactly like it when people mess wit his things, ‘specially smart alecks such as yaself," May explained. "Just hope he ain’t in a bad mood when he finds out… Hell, hope he don’t find out at all."

"Oh, he won’t," Gabi nodded and started the journey back with Mayhem.

"Sure he won’t." May shook her head and gave a wry laugh.

With Mayhem hurt, the walk back took over an hour and by the time they reached the lodging house, Gabi knew that Bumlets had probably already awoken, only to find her missing. Her heart racing, Gabi opened the door and let May in first. She closed it behind them as quietly as possible and saw Mayhem press a finger to her lips. Looks like I’m not the only one who’ll get in trouble.

Gabi nodded, but as soon as she did, someone cleared their throat in the lobby. She watched as Mayhem strode over to the couch, hiding as much pain as she could.

"Me watch?" Racetrack asked, passing over the question of how things had went that evening.

"Aw Christ. Look, it’s in one piece!" May exclaimed and pulled out his prized pocket watch from her pants.

Race took the watch and handled his beloved keepsake. He brushed his hot air over it, giving it a once-over with his sleeve before setting it back in his vest pocket. Then he took one look at Mayhem and frowned. "May, aw geez what’d dey do to ya?" he asked and took her hands.

"Nothin’ I couldn’t handle," May grumbled, still upset that Race had the nerve to even inspect his watch after what she had been through.

"Sit down May, ya look terrible." He led her over to the couch and gently took a seat beside her.

Mayhem snuggled into Race’s arms, relieved to be back home, even though she wasn’t able to avenge Lead’s death as she had hoped. Deep in her eyes there was still that anger for what had happened months back.

"Why did ya go alone, May? Just look at yaself," Race whispered into her ear. "If I evah caught dose bastards who did dis to ya…" he trailed off.

"Dat’s sweet Race. Stupid, but sweet," Mayhem responded before her head rested on his shoulder. Before long her eyes were drooping, the night’s activities being more than her body could take at the moment. She remembered Gabi was still in the room and forced her eyelids open one last time. "This still don’t mean that I like you," Mayhem muttered.

"What, and you think I care?" Gabi returned, rolling her eyes, though deep down she knew things between Mayhem and herself would never be the same. They had both helped each other out of a bind tonight, and neither would forget that.

Gabi could see this was a good time to creep up those stairs and make for the roof, but just as she reached them, she saw a figure coming down the steps. Since she couldn’t quite make out who it was, Gabi bowed her head and nonchalantly walked up those stairs, praying that it wasn’t Bumlets coming down them.

"Gabrielle?" Bumlets whispered once he was closer to her.

Gabi looked up and was surprised to see such worry in his eyes. "I’m sorry Bumlets. I went for a walk, and got lost, and something happened…"

"Are you alright?" Bumlets asked softly before she could finish.

"I’m fine," she assured him. "I didn’t mean to worry you."

"I thought I lost ya," Bumlets whispered and took her into his arms.

Gabi was quite amazed by Bumlets’ demeanor. Smiling, she slid her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek. "I could never leave without stealing that necklace back first," she smirked. "Now, where were we?"

Smiling, Bumlets scooped her up into his arms and proceeded to carry her up the stairs.

As they reached the boy’s bunkroom, Gabi remembered that she still had Spot’s slingshot in her back pocket, but it was too late to do anything about it now, and she certainly didn’t want to tell Bumlets that she had borrowed it. She hoped he wouldn’t think anything of the object protruding from her back pocket, and perhaps he would be more inclined just to sleep beside her for now.

Bumlets set her down on his bunk, barely noticing what Gabi carried with her. After his tired body had endlessly searched the lodging house for her, and worrying non-stop, Bumlets didn’t have much energy left to go about inquiring what she had. Once Gabi slid over, Bumlets lay down beside her and slipped his arms around her, holding her close.

"Night, again," Bumlets whispered and kissed her forehead.

"Night," Gabi mumbled in return, falling fast asleep.

****

"What da hell?! Alright, who took it?!" Luna yelled, pounding her boots against the floor as she woke up the other girls in the bunkroom. "One of you has it, and I wanna know who!"

"Luna?" Slinks muttered, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. "Luna what is it?"

Luna hopped onto Slinks bed and frowned. "Someone stole Spot’s slingshot," she replied, "and I want to know who did it right dis instant."

With that Slinks was up with a jolt. "Who would take dat of all things?" she asked. Whoever took it hadn’t realized the full effects of their actions. Spot was not one to be toyed with, and certainly not one to have things stolen from.

"I don’t know who took it, but dey bettah reveal demselves right now or else deir in for a lot more trouble den dey could evah imagine," Luna threatened, eyeing the entire room suspiciously.

Slowly the girls sat up, each looking around to see who in the world could have been stupid enough to steal such a thing. Luna paced back and forth, still a suspicious gleam in her eye.

One by one, Luna interrogated each and every newsgirl. Someone had it, and she wasn’t about to give up until she found his slingshot. Her eyes settled on Slick, a resident troublemaker. But would she go this far?

"Slick, anythin’ ya wanna tell me?" she asked sternly.

Rolling her eyes, Slick shook her head. "Luna, come on now. I may like a good prank once in awhile, but I ain’t one ta plant a death wish on me own head."

"Well I certainly hope yer tellin’ da truth," Luna muttered and found her next victim, or rather victims. Hush, BC, and Laces were all sitting together, whispering back and forth. Perhaps they were the culprits.

"Goils," Luna stated, sitting down on the bunk across from them. "Spill."

Laces rolled her eyes. "Luna, we had nothin’ ta do wit it. For once it wasn’t any of us three."

"Den what were ya just whisperin’ about?" Luna asked persistently.

The three were rather reluctant to ignite Luna’s fury any further. They had been discussing how well a new prank in the boys’ room had gone. "Well," BC spoke up, clearing her throat. "We was just talkin’ about how…"

"Where are dey?!" Race screamed. "I know it was dem!"

Luna frowned at the three girls. "Lemme guess, Race has sumptin’ ta do wit it?" she asked.

Pushing his way through the sleepy girls whom had just woken up, Race stormed over to the three pranksters, intent on not letting this prank go another minute. "Hand it ovah," he insisted.

Luna rolled her eyes and watched the spectacle in front of her. Of all the times two different thieves had to be lurking, it had to be this morning.

"Hand what ovah?" Hush asked. "We don’t got nothin’ of yers," she stated.

"Den where is me watch?" Race asked impatiently.

"Ya lost dat again?" Laces asked, doing her best to hide a smirk. "Geez Race, when ya gonna loin ta stop lettin’ Mayhem borrow it?" she asked.

"Ooh, dat’s it!" Race said through clenched teeth. "Give it to me now, or else suffer da consequences."

BC laughed, and positioned herself behind the two other girls, since she was the one with the watch. "Consequences? What? Ya gonna make us watch you shuffle yer cards, or bet on a horse? C’mon Race, ya ain’t got da guts," BC spat at him.

"Ha, why would I fight a girl? Dat’s beneath me character," he huffed. "But dere are uddah ways ta get me watch back."

Luna stood a few feet away, watching in amusement. She had stayed at the Manhattan Lodging House to get away from being a leader for a night, and here she was, about to moderate a quarrel.

Smirking widely, BC continued. "Right, below yer character. I forgot. It’s alright ta blow a week’s worth of earnings on a horse named Torpedo, which, I might add, did just as it was supposed to, and bombed into last place, but it’s not alright ta stand up for a silly piece of metal on a fake chain?"

"Dat was da last straw! No one calls me watch fake!" Race yelled and lunged at the three sitting on the bed.

"Enough!" Luna bellowed and grabbed race’s arm just as he was about to dive for BC.

The three girls sat smirking on the bed, knowing Luna was quite capable of keeping them from any harm, though they weren’t so convinced that Luna herself wouldn’t do some reprimanding, even if this wasn’t her lodging house.

"Dey need ta be taught a lesson, Luna," Race growled. "And I would love dat privilege."

"Alright, BC, hand it over," Luna commanded, and reluctantly BC retrieved the watch from her pocket.

Snatching it up, Race glared at the girls before heading back to the boys’ room, perturbed and still upset. "I can’t believe dose three!"

Gabi had slept peacefully in Bumlets’ arms the entire night. As morning approached, she was still sound asleep, until Racetrack burst into the room, still yelling about the three pranksters and his watch. Opening her eyes quickly, Gabi rolled over slightly, right onto the slingshot that was still in her back pocket. Oh no. The slingshot. How am I going to get it back into the girls’ room without Luna noticing?

Gabi tried unsuccessfully to slide out from beneath Bumlets’ arms. Each time she moved, he would move with her, until finally he was pulled out of his deep sleep.

"Gabi?" he mumbled. Bumlets stretched his arms out, reaching for her and the warmth he once felt beside him. He was too used to the boys’ outbursts in the morning, and unlike Gabi, was able to sleep right through Race’s words.

Sighing, Gabrielle leaned towards him and kissed his cheek. "I’m right here. Going to the washroom," she whispered, stroking a few stray strands of hair from his face.

Bumlets smiled sleepily, and nodded his head. "Hurry back," he muttered before his eyes were tightly shut again.

Now was her chance. If Luna was still asleep, she could just set the slingshot on the nightstand and be done with it. Sliding out of the warm bed, Gabi cursed herself for not taking care of this the prior evening. She hurried out of the room and crept towards the girls’ quarters.

"Who took if fer da last time!" Luna shouted. "I’ve been more dan patient, and now I wanna know who stole Spot’s slingshot." Her arms were crossed, and she was about ready to pull out her own slingshot and completely terrify the girls. She wouldn’t have been so upset if Spot hadn’t put so much trust in her. She was responsible for keeping it safe, and now it was missing.

Most of the girls hadn’t even dared to get out of bed. All eyes were fixated on Luna and her rage. No one wanted to spark her anger further, and they’d rather sit still in their beds quietly than risk walking to the washroom to get ready, and get accosted by Luna personally.

Gabi entered the room and her eyes widened. Luna was up alright, and she was certain Luna had been demanding to know where the slingshot was.

"Gawd, its just a slingshot, Luna," Dublina finally remarked. She was tired of other lodging house leaders terrorizing her in the early morning hours.

"It’s not just a slingshot," Luna snapped, her temper rising.

Known for being cranky in the morning, Dublina snapped right back at the leader. "Pfff, it is just a slingshot, and Spot’s for Christ sakes. Who gives a damn? He ain’t even here!"

"Take dat back," Luna managed to say as calmly as possible. Her knuckles were turning white from the tight fists she was making.

While all this was going on, Gabi snuck into the bunkroom. She could see Luna near the far corner, giving another lodger hell for talking about Spot’s beloved slingshot. Luckily for her, Luna’s bunk had been quite close to the door.

"Alright, alright! Shit Luna! Forget I said anythin’," Dublina growled and took off for the washroom.

While Luna was busy making sure the last few members knew exactly how bad it would be to keep the slingshot from her possession any longer, Gabi quietly set it down on the floor near Luna’s nightstand. This way, maybe she’ll think it was just dropped or fell by accident.

Unfortunately her actions didn’t go unnoticed. A bunk’s length away Laces was watching every move Gabi made. Since Laces was a born troublemaker, she figured she could use this information to her own benefit the next time she was faced with an angry Luna. Smiling, Laces turned to watch Luna continue her unsuccessful rampage.

Gabi started to creep towards the exit. This was the last place she wanted to be right now, and was beginning to miss Bumlets’ arms terribly.

"Wait right dere," Luna called out, stopping Gabi in her tracks. "Where were you all night?"

Gulping, Gabi turned back towards the leader. "Boys’ room," she answered, receiving a few looks from the girls.

"Boys’ room?" Brooky interjected. "With who?"

Forgetting that no one really knew about taking up a romantic interest in Bumlets, Gabi was reluctant to reveal anything, but being under the girls’ eyes made her want to get out of that room fast, and answering seemed the only way. "I was with Bumlets."

"Told ya," Raven grinned.

The chatter in the girls’ room reached new heights as Raven disclosed how she knew it would happen all along. In the midst of this, Gabi slid out the door and heaved a sigh of relief.

"Luna, the slingshot’s right here! Did ya even bother to look on the ground before yellin’ at all of us?" Laces asked and picked up the slingshot.

"I looked on da ground! I wouldn’t be dat dumb, Laces!" Luna shot back. "Who placed it dere?" she asked, but the girls’ in the room all shook their heads. Sighing, Luna was too tired to continue this interrogation. Hopefully by now they all knew not to mess with that slingshot. She had a duty to protect it, and that’s what she was going to do.

Luna snatched it out of Laces’ hands and walked towards the washroom. Didn’t she dream this would happen? I have ta find out why I dream such crazy things. Maybe I’m goin’ insane. I wish I knew what dey all meant.

Once out of the girls’ room, Gabi dashed into the boys’ bunkroom before anyone could stop her. She walked over to Bumlets’ bed and smiled, seeing him fast asleep. Sliding back into his arms, Gabi rested her head on his chest.

Bumlets pulled her closer in his sleep, his body relaxing more now that she was beside him. While he made the most of the last few minutes before Kloppman came to wake up them all up, Gabi lay wide awake. Her mind traveled from thoughts of Luna terrorizing the girls to Bumlets warm body close to her, to her family that knew nothing of where she was. Could she continue to live like this? If she went home, her father would have her marry Christopher, and if she stayed here, she would be with the man she cared about, but never be able to see her family again. Her parents would never approve of her dating a Newsie. How could she choose? Instinctively curling up closer to Bumlets, Gabi tried to push these unwanted thoughts from her mind.

****

"Get up Skits! Specs! Aw, come on Dutchy! Da papes aren’t gonna wait for ya!" Kloppman called, his voice booming throughout the bunkroom.

"It’s dat time already?" Mush asked, wiping the sleep from his eyes.

"It’s been dat time fer ten minutes already, now get up!" Kloppman insisted.

"Yeah, Mush, don’t keep True waitin’," Jake teased. "We already know what happens when she’s gotta wait in dat lobby for ya."

"And what about Pixie, huh Jake?" Mush retorted. "She gave you a talkin’ to da other day fer bein’ late!"

"Enough already!" Skittery cried. "Yer already givin’ me a headache and we just woke up!"

"Yeah guys. Let’s not get Skits into a bad mood any sooner den he will by himself, huh?" Jack smirked and nudged Skittery in the arm.

"Hey! Would ya look at dis. Bumlets got himself a goil!" Blink laughed.

The boys turned to look at Bumlets’ bunk near the window. Sure enough, he was holding Gabi in his arms.

"Raven told me dis would happen between those two," Dutchy muttered, shaking his head. "I gotta loin ta start believin’ her right off da bat ‘bout relationships."

Gabi woke up once the tittering in the bunkroom had seemed to come closer and closer to her. Opening her eyes, Gabi saw the boys staring at her, and gasped.

Specs laughed. "Ya do know dis is da boys’ room, and yer sleepin’ next ta Bumlets, right goil?" he asked.

Gabi frowned at him. What did he care? "Actually, I could have sworn this was the girls’ room, what with all the high-pitched squealing you all do in the morning."

Bumlets was stirring out of his comfortable and deep sleep. He heard Gabi’s voice and the laughs of the boys as well. What was going on? "Gabrielle?" he mumbled, opening his eyes slowly.

"Look, he’s finally awake," Pie Eater grinned. "What took ya so long Bumlets? Dreamin’ ‘a ya goil here?"

Specs nudged Pie in the side. "And it’s a good thing he got himself a goil. Now he won’t be checkin’ out Slinks when he thinks I ain’t lookin’," Specs teased.

If it were not for Bumlets sleepy mind, he would have been standing up to Specs right now, but with Gabi besides him, his was in a rather lazy state, content just to enjoy the warmth of her body next to his.

"Guys, leave ‘er be alright? Go get ready fer work," Bumlets stated sleepily. He hadn’t thought of the consequences her sleeping beside him would have in the morning. What would Gabi think of the boys’ idiotic teasing?

Chuckling, the others slowly wandered towards their bunks or the washroom, though Bumlets could make out what they were talking about, and he and Gabi were the hot topic that morning.

"I’m sorry sweetie," Bumlets whispered in her ear.

"Don’t be. It’s alright. I’m going to go wash up," Gabi mumbled and broke away from his hold.

"I’ll meet ya downstairs," Bumlets called after her, which only produced catcalls from the boys in hearing range. He saw Gabi nod her head before exiting quickly.

Sighing, Bumlets staggered out of bed, ignoring the nudges and winks of his fellow lodgers.

While he was enduring the teasing in the boys’ bunkroom, Gabi was dealing with her own amount of torture in the girls’. Most just glanced at her oddly and some were whispering softly. Gabi hurried to finish in the washroom, and with her head down, rushed downstairs, feeling uneasy under their gaze.

Bumlets smiled as he saw her descend the stairs, but her appearance irked him. Why did she seem so upset? He pulled her into his arms quickly. "Gabi, what’s wrong?"

"Let’s go, okay?" Gabi took his hand and pulled him outside.

Bumlets thought he had a good idea of what was wrong. It would take awhile for the others to get used to her and for Gabi to get used to her surroundings, that is, if she even contemplated staying here. "Dey’ll get used to ya, and you’ll have a ton of friends in no time. Just give it time," he offered, hoping to make her feel better.

"Yeah…hope so," Gabi mumbled. "So are you going to show me how to really sell papers? Or do I get to make a fool out of myself again?" she asked, opting to change the subject quickly.

"I’se gonna teach ya how ta be da best Newsie in all of New York," he grinned and led her to the distribution center.

****

Word of mouth had spread quickly. By the time lunch rolled around, everyone knew that Spot’s slingshot had been borrowed, including Spot himself. Choosing to spend some time in Manhattan, Spot cut short his slingshot lesson with Blue that day. Even though Spot lacked his slingshot, he would still tutor others willing to learn, and Blue was one of his best students.

"We’ll continue some other time," Spot explained.

Nodding, Blue stuffed his slingshot in his back pocket. "Spades will be glad ta hear I got off early," he assured Spot, and headed off towards the lodging house, eager to find his girl.

Spot jogged into Manhattan. He knew he shouldn’t be so concerned about an item he had given up, but he faintly missed his slingshot and the news of it being borrowed gave him a chance to see Luna as well. How he wished just to be honest and open about his feelings towards her, but he dreaded the thought of her still thinking about Pan and Spot’s words just confusing or even hurting her further.

Once in Manhattan, Spot glanced at his watch. It was nearly time for the Newsies to depart from Tibby’s and he only hoped to make it there in time. Calmly he walked into the small restaurant, seeing most of the Manhattan Newsies still enjoying their break before anther round of selling.

"Spot," Luna called, a bit uneasy to see him here. "What brings ya to Manhattan?" she asked, although quite aware that it had to be the news of his slingshot.

"Just came to check up on things," he answered and sat down at her table. He realized that most of the Newsies were looking at him and he scanned the room with a glare, watching as they all returned to their food, before turning his full attention to Luna.

"Well, things in Manhattan are fine, Spot," Luna answered.

"Any news on who had some fun last night?" he asked, referring to the borrower of his slingshot.

Luna shook her head. "No, not right now, but I’se workin’ on dat," she replied. "Don’t worry. Whoevah did it will fess up soon."

"Good ta hear," Spot smiled. He glanced at his slingshot on the table and had to hold himself back from taking it. He decided food would be a better option than handling the weapon again, and motioned for the waiter.

At the next table, Laces, Hush, and BC Tate were having a heated conversation about their next prank, but Laces had her ears set on listening in on Luna and Spot instead.

"Right Laces?" Hush asked. "Laces…Hey, Laces!" She tapped Laces’ shoulder incessantly until Laces finally snapped out of her current state.

"What? What is it Hush?" Laces asked, perturbed.

"Are ya in dis conversation or not?" Hush asked.

"Yeah, whatevah. What are we talkin’ bout again?"

"Spot’s slingshot," BC answered. "Whoevah stole it needs to be taught a lesson. We are da pranksters around heah, and personally I don’t wanna be shown up by nobody."

That gave Laces an idea. "Goils, I think I know of a way ta keep our reputation in tact, and have a little fun wit someone else’s," she grinned. Leaning in to whisper, Laces revealed who had stolen Spot’s slingshot and her plan to have some fun.

****

Central Park seemed like a good location to sell that afternoon, and Bumlets hadn’t set foot in it since he had been chased by Gabi several days ago. He had finished selling first and chose to sit down on a park bench to watch Gabi try her luck. With his help she was improving and he smiled at the quirky headlines she would come up with.

He lay back against the bench and rested his cap over his eyes, close to falling asleep to the sounds of his girl calling out headlines. There was a slight breeze in the air and it did nothing to help keep the tired Newsie awake.

Gabi had finished selling her small amount of papers, since Bumlets insisted she not buy as many this time, and crept towards the bench. A wide smirk on her face, Gabi knew exactly how to wake him up. He has such a tempting hat to steal, and since he had stolen my necklace, it seems only fair to get him back, she reasoned.

Slowly Gabi reached out for his hat and as her hands neared it, she snatched it off his head quickly and darted through the trees. By this time Bumlets had awakened, and scanned the park, looking for the bandit who dare take his beloved hat. Then he saw Gabi, running as fast as she could, clutching his very hat in her hands. Chuckling, Bumlets took off after her. "Hey! Stop! Dat’s my hat!" he shouted.

"Come get it then!" Gabi called over her shoulder. She turned to see him gaining on her and as soon as she turned back, ran right into a tree. Tumbling over, Gabi let go of Bumlets’ cap as she hit the ground with a thud. "Ow," she mumbled, embarrassed.

Quickly Bumlets was at her side. "Gabi! Are ya alright?" he asked, concerned. Gently he brushed the hair from her face and examined her. She must have struck her chin, for there was a small cut that had just started dripping blood.

"I’m fine," she sighed, her pride hurt more than anything else. "Help me up, would ya?" she asked.

Obliging, Bumlets helped her up and held onto her hand. "I think we bettah get ya back to da lodgin’ house and clean dis up." Bumlets dusted off his hat and set it atop his head. "No more stealin’ hats fer you," he instructed.

"For a day," Gabi smirked.

Chuckling, Bumlets shook his head. "Always blazin’ inta things, you are," he stated.

"Who me?" she asked innocently.

"Yes you. In fact, I’se gonna give ya a nickname, whether you like it or not," Bumlets grinned.

"And what might that be?"

"Blaze," he stated simply.

"Blaze…" Gabi repeated. "It’s certainly a stretch from Gabrielle."

"And it fits you poifectly," Bumlets smirked. "Blaze," he teased.

Gabi swiped his hat off his gloating head and smiled. "Alright, Blaze it is."

****

By the time the two were back at the lodging house, evening was well on its way. Bumlets cleaned up the wound on Gabi’s chin and smiled. "Dere, not so bad after all."

"It’s going to be a scar, I just know it," Gabi pouted.

"Den it’ll be a nice reminder not to steal me hat no more," Bumlets replied.

Unable to hide a smile, Gabi poked his nose before darting out of the room. By the time Bumlets caught up to her, she was on the roof, watching as the stars began to come out. He took a seat besides her, his arms finding their way around her waist.

"You really like this life, Bumlets? I mean, is it better than working in a factory or something?" she asked.

Sighing, Bumlets pulled her closer. "I think it is, but da big reason is cause of da family I got heah. Dey may not be blood-related, but we’se all pretty close. Ya know, most of us Newsies, well, we’re all got dis tough exterior, like we’re really all mean and hard. But inside, most of us are gentle, and kind, and loving. Most of us came from loving homes, or at least homes dat were loving at some point, before da drinkin’, or da gamblin’, or da prositutin’, or da fires, or whatevah else drove us here. At some point, most of us knew da value of true love, or we found it here at da lodgin’ house. Kloppman takes care of us like we were his own children. He shows us dat love."

Bumlets squeezed her hand and brought her closer, resting his chin gently atop her head. "When I was a boy, one night, I saw a thousand shootin’ stars. I thought, where did they all go? I’m an orphan. Me father died before I was born, and me mother passed away when I was six years old. I used ta look for stars alone. I thought if I searched long enough, I would find them. I’ve been searchin’ ever since."

Gabi looked up into his eyes. "And so, the little boy became a great thief. He couldn’t find the stars so he stole my necklace."

Bumlets paused momentarily, kissing Gabi’s forehead before continuing. "In dis woild, you always fight for survival and ta just make it to dat next meal. You stand a much better chance bein’ surrounded by people like da Newsies. Slowly dey become yer family. All that tough stuff is just ta scare people and ta make me life easier, just as it is for Spot, or for Mayhem, or Luna."

"So you’re still that little boy looking for shooting stars."

"I am a man, and now I’ve found da brightest star of all."

Closing her eyes, Gabi hugged him tightly, a smile across her face.

****

The afternoon gradually turned into night, with most of the Newsies forgetting the day’s activities. Most found an evening poker game the ticket to relaxing that night. Bumlets and Gabi, however, found themselves on the roof, the day proving more stressful than the two had imagined.

"Ya ain’t not safe heah. And no mattah how much I want ya to stay, da bulls are gonna find ya, and Klopp’s gonna get in trouble for harborin’ ya heah," Bumlets sighed.

"I don’t want to go back," Gabrielle frowned. "I like it here, with you."

Bumlets kissed her forehead. "And I like it heah wit you too, but yer parents must be worried sick. Go back to dem. Let ‘em know yer alright. Den we can woik out da rest."

"But they won’t let me associate with Newsies!" she exclaimed. "I’ll never see you again."

Bumlets shook his head. "Yes ya will see me."

"And what about Christopher? They’ll marry me off as soon as I return," she frowned.

"Den we’ll just have to work sumptin’ out before dat," Bumlets replied. "But we can’t risk getting da lodgin’ house in trouble.

"I don’t want to leave you."

Bumlets sighed. "But it’s trouble for the lodgin’ house and for Kloppman. Go back to yer parents. Let them know that you are well. If she was our daughter, we’d look for her too, wouldn’t we?"

Gabi didn’t answer him, but nodded her head, her eyes shut tightly.

"I’ll find a way to make a decent living. One to support us both - one that will earn yer parents’ respect. Den we can be together again. Ya know of da Brooklyn Bridge?" he asked softly.

"I’ve heard of it, why?" Gabi opened her eyes, once again fixating them on Bumlets.

"Dere’s an old legend in these parts about it. Whenever da mist is so thick dat ya can’t see da water when standin’ on da bridge, you can make a wish. One time, a boy’s parents were deathly ill. Dey didn’t have da money to pay the hospital bills, and da boy knew they weren’t gonna survive. He waited until one morning the fog was so thick dat he couldn’t see da water. Den he jumped. He didn’t die. He wasn’t even hurt. He floated away, nevah to be seen or heard of again, but he knew his wish had come true. If you believe, it will happen. ‘A faithful heart makes wishes come true.’" Bumlets stroked her cheek with his fingers and smiled.

"Things will work out, you’ll see." Bumlets stroked through Gabi’s hair, gradually pulling her closer to himself. He knew this was the last time he was going to be this close to her for quite some time, and he wanted this night to be memorable for them both.

"I bet by da time I make my mark on dis woild, you’ll have found a handsome young man ta whisk ya away," he teased.

"And that man will be you," Gabi replied, sliding her arms around his neck.

Smiling, Bumlets leaned in and kissed her deeply. Before long he lifted her up, and carried her to a more secluded place on the roof. As their kiss deepened, neither paid any attention to the night around them and temporarily forgot that soon they would have to leave each other’s arms.

****

Sighing, Bumlets sat up rummaged through his pants pocket. He withdrew Gabi’s necklace, and laid back down beside her, taking her back into his arms.

"Here," he whispered, placing it in her hand.

Gabi shook her head and pushed it back into Bumlets’ palm. "Keep it. Bring it back to me when you return, once we can be together again."

Bumlets smiled sadly and nodded his head.

"If you don’t bring it back. I’ll come after you," Gabi whispered, through tears. She curled up in Bumlets’ arms, the reality striking her hard. In the morning she would have to leave the man she loved.

Kissing Gabi’s forehead, Bumlets pulled her as near as he could. "Love you," he whispered.

Gabi kissed his ear, smiling. "Love you, my thief," she whispered back.

"Now, you go to sleep, and in da mornin’ I’ll make sure ya get home alright," Bumlets explained, tears burning in his throat.

Nodding her head slightly, Gabi closed her eyes and fell into a peaceful sleep, Bumlets’ strong arms around her and his body next to hers keeping her comfort until the sun came to awake them.

****

Bumlets squeezed Gabi’s hand. "Dis is it. Remembah da place?" he asked, teasing slightly.

"Yeah, that’s it," Gabi answered softly. She buried her head in his chest. "I don’t want to leave you."

"Shh, it’s only for a little while. I’ll see you again soon. Go and tell your family you’re okay." Bumlets lifted her chin with his fingers and brushed them over her lips. "We’ll meet again real soon," he whispered. Bumlets leaned down and kissed her deeply.

Gabi tried to hold onto him longer, but she knew the more time she spent in his arms, the harder it would be to pull away. Breaking the kiss, she smiled at him, and snatched his hat once more. "I miss you already."

"And I miss me hat!" Bumlets replied, smiling. He took it from her hands and plopped it on his head. "Go on, before I pick you up and run like hell back to da lodgin’ house." He kissed her cheek one last time. "Love you."

"And I love you more," she smirked and hugged him close before letting go. Reluctantly Gabi made her way towards her house, and although she tried not to look back, she glanced at Bumlets once more before walking up the steps.

Bumlets stood there, doing his best to smile. As he watched her knock on the door, he started to back up, and as the door flung open and Gabi was pulled inside towards her amazed mother, Bumlets walked home while dreaming of the possibility to be with Gabi soon.

"Gabrielle! Oh my God, where have you been?" Kayla cried. She hugged her daughter until Gabi had to pull away for lack of breathing room.

"Dietrich! Viktor! She’s home!" Kayla called throughout the house.

Her brother pounded down the stairs from the second floor and threw himself at his sister. "Gabi!"

"Viktor!" Gabi returned once she was flat on the floor, her brother hugging her close.

"Sweetie, let the poor girl breathe," Kayla smiled and gently lifted her son up. "Dietrich! Honey, where are you?" Kayla found it hard to believe her husband was still not answering, though soon he was in the doorway, baffled by his wife’s ecstatic voice.

"What? What is it dear?" His eyes lit up at the vision in front of him. "Gabrielle!"

Standing up, Gabi ran to her father’s embrace. He held her tightly and smiled. "How we’ve missed you! We’ve looked for days, and so have the police. We thought we lost you! What happened? Where have you been?"

Kayla shook her head. "Come, lunch is ready, and we can find out all about it over a good meal."

Lunch went quite well, and Gabi had decided to do some improving of the truth while she told the story of her whereabouts. She explained how her necklace had broken and that Bumlets had been a kind gentleman to retrieve it for her, but she added in that another man had taken it, and Bumlets had chased down the man to get it back. She knew her parents would need the best impression of the Newsie that she could give them. Then she went on to explain that she had been rendered unconscious in a fall, and that Bumlets had taken care of her at a nearby lodging house. She explained his profession of selling newspapers, but she could see how her parents were worried. Gabi couldn’t help but talk about him nonstop, and after lunch, her father took her into the study.

"Gabrielle, I sent a note to Christopher, telling him of your safe return. He wants to meet with you tonight," Dietrich started.

Gabi’s face fell. "But, father, I don’t want to see that boy anymore. He’s rude and he doesn’t hear one word I say, and he’s…he’s not someone I want to date," she explained.

Dietrich frowned. "Christopher is a great boy and his father happens to be my boss. The plans are all set."

"Plans?" Gabi asked, fearing the worst.

"While you were gone, Christopher promised he would find you and he asked that once you return, he be able to have your hand in marriage. Naturally I accepted. He’s a fine boy and you are safely here. He held up his end of the bargain and I am going to hold up mine. You’ll be well off with him. He loves you."

Gabi felt her knees grow weak. "I…I can’t marry him. I just can’t! I love someone else, father!"

"You can’t possibly be talking about that boy that helped you out, can you? He doesn’t even have a good home. A girl of your stature cannot make a living in a lodging house," Dietrich frowned, appalled at the thought.

"I am talking about him, father! And he might not have a steady income now, but he will have one soon! He’s looking for something better, just to earn your respect. How can I marry someone else?" Gabi had a hard time holding back tears. How could her father have done such a thing?

"No daughter of mine is going to date, let alone marry a street rat!" Dietrich bellowed, outraged at the very notion.

"But father, I don’t love Christopher!" Gabi cried. "You don’t know what he does at night! I saw him! He’s vicious to those Newsies! Please father! Listen to me!" she pleaded. "Bumlets and I love each other! If you’d only meet him, you’d see how…"

"Enough!" he interrupted. "You will marry Christopher, Gabrielle. That’s an order! He’ll be coming over tonight and you will act cordially to the boy!" Dietrich stormed out of the room, ignoring the pleading look in Gabi’s eyes and the hurt expression on her face.

Her mother was listening in the hall, but there was nothing she could do to stop this. She knew how Christopher was. He was the kind that always got what he wanted, and when he didn’t, his father made sure that he did. Being the prominent owner of a bank had its perks, and apparently marriage to whomever his son Christopher wanted, was included.

Gabi fled to her room. She had to be out of there by the time Christopher came that evening. She would just have to remember the way back to the lodging house. Quietly Gabi rummaged through her belongings, but decided a suitcase full of clothes would only hinder her escape and would do no good if she wanted to hide out from the police again.

She heard a knock at the door downstairs and panicked. Surely it had to be Christopher. Well then, perhaps I can give him a peace of my mind before I go. Without giving it a second thought, Gabi walked down the stairs, her head held high. Sure enough, there in the front hall stood Christopher, a fake smile on his face once he saw her.

****

"Well, if it isn’t Spot Conlon. How’s your brother doing, kid?" Christopher asked. "Oh, that’s right. He’s six feet under. I forgot," he snickered.

Glaring, Spot felt his blood boil. He approached Christopher with his head held high, one hand holding his cane firmly. "Fox, you and me got a score to settle," he growled.

"Score? Well, I believe I am winning, since I’ve rid the earth of one meddlesome Conlon. Now all I need to do is get rid of the other one," he seethed.

Spot walked closer, certain that this had to be an ambush, but the thought of finally avenging his brother’s death was too strong, despite the consequences. "Well, I aim ta even dat tally," Spot answered, his eyes burning with rage. Tonight Fox would finally pay for what he not only did to his brother Pan, but to Leadpipe as well.

Christopher chuckled, amused by Spot’s actions. Withdrawing his gun, Christopher pointed it at Spot, grinning wickedly. "Time ta take care of one last meddlesome jackass," he muttered.

Spot was ready for Fox, knowing full well Fox would resort to a gun as his defense. "Ya always were a wuss, lettin’ a weapon like dat fight yer battles," Spot snorted. Slowly he withdrew the marble he had kept since his brother’s death.

"You’re calling me a wuss? This from the boy that uses a slingshot to defend himself?" Christopher mused, his smile widening. "You use a toy to fight with."

Withdrawing the slingshot from his back pocket, Spot held it up. "You mean dis?" he asked, admiring it in the moonlight.

"Yes! That pathetic excuse for a weapon in your hand, Conlon!" Christopher spat, his mood now impatient. Getting rid of the previous Conlon had taken half the time. This one was rather persistent.

The marble in Spot’s other hand gleamed in the light, and he carefully cradled it in the slingshot. "Well, for someone like yerself, who could never possibly be skillful enough ta use one, it may seem like a toy, but fer us who prefer sumptin’ more rewardin’ den just blastin’ people away, it’s da perfect weapon."

Luna hurried to the docks, fearing something was wrong. She had heard news that Fox was still lingering about town, despite rumors that he had fled Manhattan for good. If Spot found out he was still here, they would surely meet, and only one would survive. As she approached, she could see two figures both standing tall. Her heartbeat throbbed against her chest once she confirmed who the two were.

"Enough of this, Conlon. That toy is no use against this gun, and I’m afraid I have to go now, you’ve taken up more of my time than was necessary. Do say hi to your brother for me. Won’t you?" he smirked and cocked the pistol.

Running at full speed, Luna was nearly there, praying that her sudden arrival would buy them enough time to flee the scene. Regret was ringing through her mind. She regretted not telling Spot how she felt about him before. She knew Pan would have wanted her to be happy, but out of honor for him and blindness of her affections for Spot for a long time, Luna had kept her feelings to herself. When was close enough to see Fox prepare to shoot, Luna cried out, hoping to divert Fox’s attention. "Spot, no!" she screamed, then drew her own slingshot out.

Her plan had worked, but for merely a brief second. Christopher turned to see who had rudely interrupted them, and as he did, Spot aimed his slingshot at Fox, letting it go before he could turn back to Spot.

Barreling through the air, the marble contacted with Fox just where Spot had aimed for, and with a loud cry of pain, Fox fell to the ground, gripping his throat. The marble had temporarily cut off his air supply, rendering him helpless until he regained his breath.

"Luna! What are ya doin’ heah? Go home!" Spot yelled. "Lemme take care of dis, will ya?" He knew full well Fox was merely wounded and would still need to be taken care of.

"I will not let ya kill yerself! Let’s get outta heah!" Luna cried as she ran towards him.

Christopher eyed the pistol that had fallen out of his hand. It only lay a few feet from him now. Gripping it in his shaking hands, he smiled faintly as it was still cocked and ready to be fired. Slowly Christopher raised his arm, still gasping for breath.

Spot had started walking towards Fox, but his gaze remained on Luna. He wanted to protect her. He couldn’t lose her too. "Damn it, Luna! Leave. NOW!" he bellowed. Then he saw Luna freeze in fear, her eyes wide. She was staring at Fox, unable to speak.

Turning, Spot came face to face with the barrel of a gun pointing directly at him. In an instant a loud shot fired through the air, striking Spot down forcefully.

Christopher dropped the gun, his breath still too ragged. He gripped his throat with both hands, paying no attention to the spectator of his fight with Spot. Slowly he rose to his knees, coughing violently. He had taken care of his only enemies, and would now be free to run Brooklyn as part of his own territory.

Consumed by rage, Luna raced to where the gun lay. Gripping it in trembling hands, Luna slid her finger over the trigger. Fox had his back to her, still rasping for breath on his knees. She wanted him to see her kill him, to feel that fear of knowing he was on his last breath, and to beg her forgiveness, which deep down she knew he would never do.

"Look at me, asshole!" she cried and kicked him swiftly in the stomach, sending him flying on his back. She glared at him and cocked the gun, intent to pull the trigger without hesitation.

Fox couldn’t protest verbally. She had knocked the wind out of him and all he could do was sputter out cough after cough. He waved his hands in the air, gesturing for her to stop, but the anger in her eyes could not be mistaken.

Luna pointed the pistol at Fox and started to squeeze the trigger, closing her eyes once it finally went off. She opened her eyes to see Fox take his last breath and threw the gun in the water, wanting to cleanse herself of the deed she had done somehow.

"Luna," Spot mumbled. "Luna?"

Gasping, Luna turned to see Spot still alive, though blood had consumed his shirt and his breath was staggered. "Spot? Spot hold on. I’ll…I’ll get help…You’ll be fine…Just lemme get a doctor…"

"No," he interrupted her. "No, it’s too late. Luna…Luna, come here," he whispered. Spot tried to stretch out his arm to her, but found his strength nearly gone. The best he could do was open his hand, hoping to feel hers intertwined with it soon.

Luna knelt beside him, shaking her head. "It’s not too late. I can get a doctor and you’ll be fine…" She took his hand in hers, holding on to it tightly, her other hand behind his neck, holding his head up to look into his eyes.

"I only have one breath left, Luna. It’s too late for a doctor," he mumbled, doing his best to neglect the pain consuming him.

"Use it to rest, den. Use it ta hold out until I get help," she whispered.

"No, I wanna tell ya sumptin’."

"Spot, no, use it ta rest. Don’t waste it on me, please."

"I’ve already wasted me entire life," he continued, his voice growing softer and softer. "I wanna tell ya dat…dat I’ve always loved ya. Since da moment I met ya, I knew ya was sumptin’ special. Just look at da way ya shoot a slingshot," he smiled as best he could. Struggling to continue, he looked deep into her eyes. "Yer da most beautiful, wonderful goil I evah met, and I’m madly in love with ya."

Luna let the tears fall, unable to hold them back any longer. She ran her fingers lightly down his cheek before leaning in to kiss him lightly.

"Spot, don’t leave. I love you… Please, don’t die on me!" she cried. She saw him smile slightly, his trademark smirk evident even in his final moments. Then she could feel the last bit of his life being drained violently from him, until he lay limp in her arms.

Luna brought his forehead to her lips, kissing it as if she would never let go. She couldn’t bring herself to believe he was gone.

Running through the streets, Gabi knew Christopher wouldn’t have gone after Spot if she hadn’t refused his marriage proposal. She could have stopped what would happen. Now if only she could reach the docks in time. Her boots hitting the cobblestones in rapid succession, Gabi had a hard time stopping once she approached the docks. She made out three figures, all lying on the ground, and at least one of them didn’t appear to have any life left.

"Luna?! Luna what happened?" Gabi questioned before falling to her knees besides the couple. She looked down to see Spot covered in blood and his eyes closed. "No…he’s not…I’ll get help…"

"It’s too late," Luna replied, her voice devoid of any emotion, though the tears still flowed down her cheeks. "He’s gone."

"Gone? No!" Gabi cried. "He can’t be! Wake him up! I can get help! We can help him!"

"NO! Gabi, he’s gone," Luna repeated. She held Spot close to her once more before lying him gently on the cold ground. Still enraged, Luna took Spot’s cane in her hands, gripping it until her knuckles flushed white in color. She stood up and walked towards Gabi, who was still kneeling. If you had married Fox, he would have never done this! He would have had what he wanted and left Spot alone! she yelled at Gabi in her mind.

"Luna, I’m, I’m so sorry. I, I didn’t mean for this to happen," Gabi whispered. She looked up at Luna, her eyes pleading.

Drawing back the cane, Luna went to strike Gabi, but stopped short, right as the cane nearly collided with Gabi’s head. Gabi’s eyes closed and she braced herself for the impact even she thought she deserved. But it never came. Moments later, Luna dropped the cane and knelt in front of her. Luna knew all too well the pain of what Gabi would have had to endure if she had married Fox, for she loved another. She was dealing with a similar pain. If she had listened to her heart instead of her pride, she would have told Spot she loved him long ago. It was too late for her, but it wasn’t too late for Gabi. "You must go. Bumlets will be waiting for you at the Bridge Lodgin’ House. She saw Gabi’s hesitation, and helped Gabi to her feet. "You can meet him safely there. Go, he’s already waited long enough."

Nodding, Gabi mouthed ‘I’m sorry’ once more before turning on her heel and speeding towards the lodging house.

****

Bumlets paced back and forth on the steps outside the lodging house, wearing his own path into the stoop beneath him. Luna had promised to tell Gabi where he was. Had she even found Gabrielle? Bumlets had been waiting since the sun began to set and now the sky was filled with stars.

His heart stopped at the faint sound of running footsteps in the distance. Could she finally have made it? He hoped and prayed those footsteps belonged to Gabi and wouldn’t budge from his place on those steps until he knew for sure.

In the distance he could see the figure of a girl, her curly hair menacingly blocking her vision as she ran faster. Then he heard his name being called faintly and his heart sped up.

"Gabi!" Bumlets called, his feet finally allowing him to run towards her. "Gabi!"

Gabrielle ran into his arms, hugging him tightly. "Bumlets, I’m so sorry," she mumbled into his chest. "I didn’t mean ta cause so much trouble, honest."

Bumlets hold on her tightened. "Ya didn’t cause no trouble. Whatcha tawkin’ about?" he whispered.

Sighing, Gabi revealed the events of the past few hours, including her defiance of her parents, the showdown between Fox and Spot, and both their deaths. "Luna told me you were here. I came as fast as I could. I’m sorry," she whispered.

"Shh, it’s not your fault, Gabi," Bumlets consoled. "Spot made that choice on his own. He knew what could have happened with Fox. And ya had no control over Fox’s actions. No one could expect you ta marry such a man." He ran a hand through her hair and kissed her forehead.

"Come inside now. I wanna show you around da lodgin’ house." Bumlets took her hand and led her inside.

"What about Manhattan?" Gabi whispered in his ear.

"Too dangerous. We cut it too close last time and we can’t risk da bulls findin’ ya," Bumlets explained. "Brooklyn’s safer."

Sighing, Gabi clutched onto his hand. Manhattan had been his home. How could she ask him to leave it just for her? What about his friends there? The Bridge seemed odd to her. The layout was basically like Manhattan, but the people seemed different. They might have all been Newsies, but Gabi felt extremely uncomfortable under their scrupulous gazes, unlike how she had felt in Manhattan.

"So dis is da troublemakah," Key miffed. "And we’re supposed ta hide her out heah because…" she started, waiting for Bumlets to finish.

"Because Luna gave us permission, dat’s why," Bumlets answered. He gripped to Gabi’s hand and pulled her towards the stairs.

"So what she go by?" Spades asked. "Certainly can’t go by her regular name." She leaned her elbow on the couch and rested her chin in her hands. Key was right. This girl was trouble.

"You can call her Blaze," he replied before heading up the stairs. He led her to one of the vacant sick rooms and walked inside. He hadn’t expected the girls to welcome Gabi so coldly. Would they really be safe here?

"They hate me," Gabi muttered, hanging her head.

"It’s just gonna take some getting used to, dat’s all," he comforted. He hoped they would welcome her at the lodging house soon, but then Bumlets thought of Luna bringing the news of Spot’s death. Instinctively he held her closer. "I missed ya so much."

"I missed you too," she whispered. Gabi wasn’t so sure about using a nickname while at the lodging house, nor did she particularly like staying in Brooklyn. She felt more of a burden to Bumlets than anything else.

She took his hand and led Bumlets towards the bed, grateful to get off her feet finally. Bumlets took her into his arms and held her close. Outside the constant noises of the rowdy Newsies started to fade away. With Bumlets’ arms around her, his warm body close, Gabi felt her eyes begin to close. The day had exhausted her beyond belief and though it was still early that evening, Gabi didn’t refuse her body’s wishes to sleep.

Smiling at his sleepy girl, Bumlets gently lay her down, his arms encasing Gabi once more as he settled beside her. "Things will work out. You’ll see," he whispered.

****

"What?! Dead?" Key cried. "Dat’s some sick joke." She advanced towards Slick, prepared to soak her for joking about such an issue.

"Fox killed him," Slick answered, standing her ground firmly. Since Slick was the messenger from Manhattan and Brooklyn, Luna had chosen Slick to deliver the news of Spot’s passing. "They fought down by the docks, and aftah Spot struck Fox down wit his slingshot, Fox shot at him." Slick could hardly bare to utter the words. More than anything she wished not to bring such information to the Newsies.

"Did Spot at least kill him?" Spades asked.

Sighing, Slick shook her head. "He only wounded him. Luna killed him with his own pistol."

The entire lodging house grew silent. Some were overcome with anguish, while others were enraged, Key among the latter.

"I have to go delivah da news ta da other lodgin’ houses," Slick muttered and left quickly.

"Dis is all her fault!" Key bellowed.

"Whose fault?" Spades asked. "Ya can’t be sayin’ it’s Luna’s, can ya?" she asked, baffled.

"No, ‘a coise not. It’s dat goil’s fault – Blaze. If she would’ve married Fox in da foist place, none of dis woulda happened!"

Spades frowned. She didn’t quite believe Key’s reasoning, but as Key was co-leader of the lodging house and visibly peeved, Spades kept her mouth shut.

The other Newsies stood with their heads down, dwelling on the thought of their fallen comrade. Spot and Pan had both made their mark on the city and now all that was left was just that – their name.

"Don’t you see? She’s a traitor! First she brings da bulls to da lodgin’ house in Manhattan, den she gets Spot killed! Who knows what she’ll do now!" Key shouted.

Some of the Newsies nodded their heads, agreeing with her, while others thought Key was just out to get revenge for Spot’s death and the only person she could get even with was Gabi.

As Key did not get the full support of the others, she headed for the stairs. "Think what ya wanna think, but I’se right." With that she stormed up to the bunkroom.

****

Over the next few days the Newsies all would barely talk or leave the lodging house, except to sell. The mood of the lodging house was one of complete sadness and depression, all still mourning the death of one of their own.

Some had thought over Key’s words and out of spite of Fox, had started to agree with her. They shot Gabi glares and refused to associate with Bumlets while she was near him.

The two sat up on the roof of the Bridge Lodging House one night, both silent until finally Gabi cleared her throat. "I’m not welcome here."

Bumlets frowned deeply, but his expression was hard for Gabi to see, since a fog had been rolling in from the ocean and it covered most of the brightly shining stars. "Den we’ll just go to anuddah lodgin’ house. Don’t mattah. Dere are tons."

"And what then?" Gabi asked. "Once they learn who I am, they’ll do the same thing as what is happening here," she sighed.

"Den we’ll go to Joisey," Bumlets answered quickly. "Or up north."

Gabi shook her head. "And leave your friends? No, I won’t go to another state." Though she wouldn’t say it, Gabi not only didn’t want to move because of his friends here, but because of her family, even if they chose not to associate with her while she was dating a Newsie.

"It’ll work out, I’ll find a way," he promised.

Unable to think of such a horrid subject any longer, Gabi pulled herself closer to him. "I love you," she whispered before planting kisses on his neck.

Though relishing her touch, Bumlets took her face in his hands and tilted it so that he could look into her eyes deeply. "I love you." He pulled her near, kissing Gabi as if for the first time.

Soon any thoughts of their current situation were banished from both their minds as the kiss grew in passion, their only wish to be as close to one another as possible.

****

Bumlets was startled from his sleep. He had rolled over only to find he was alone. He reached out for Gabi, but instead all he found was her necklace lying besides him on the blanket.

He sat up to see even in the morning that the fog had taken over the sky and his heart began to beat faster. Where had she gone? Bumlets pulled his clothes on and gripped to the necklace in one hand as he descended the fire escape to the bunkrooms. After searching the washrooms and coming up empty, Bumlets darted down to the lobby.

"She’s not heah," Spades muttered.

"Wheah is she?" Bumlets demanded.

"Dunno. Saw her leave earlier. Seemed pretty upset doah," Spades answered.

The bridge… Bumlets only gave her a nod before her burst out the front door and sped towards the bridge.

"Gabi! Gabi wait up!" Through the fog he could barely make her out, even with the short distance between them.

Gabi turned from her frozen position and smiled at Bumlets once he was next to her. "Do you remember the legend of the young man?"

"A faithful heart makes wishes come true," he answered softly.

"Make a wish, Bumlets."

Bumlets closed his eyes, obeying what she asked of him, but at the same time deathly afraid of what Gabi planned to do.

"To be back in Manhattan, together again."

Smiling, Gabi turned back towards the water and before Bumlets opened his eyes, she leapt off the railing into the foggy abyss.

His eyes finally opened, Bumlets looked after her, a sad smile on his face, tears running down his cheeks.

* ~ THE END ~ *