Ask Jack Kelly! :D

[askk-jackkelly]

[ Jack Kelly ]

[ Placeholder intro post ]

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[ask-crutchie]

just, uh, ‘bout the refuge n’ stuff. you don’t gotta worry ‘bout me jack, really, i’m fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Crutchie...

I's gonna worry 'bout my brother when he gets sent t' hell on Earth, da refuge does things t'ya.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie stares at jack for a few moments, and sighs with a small chuckle.*

you’re really not gonna give dis up, are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Naw way

[ask-crutchie]

it’s… awful. every night it’s somethin’ different. gettin’ beat till i’m bloody, most a’ da time, but some nights it’s you, or david, or racer, and i can’t do anythin’ but watch. and snyder, he stares straight at me the whole damn time till i can’t take it anymore and scream myself awake.

i jus’ can’t close my eyes without seein’ it, jack.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He listens, his heart sinking and his mind clouding. Crutchie never deserved this; he shouldn't be the one going through these nightmares plaguing his mind. It should've only been Jack himself.*

Awh, bud... I know, 's awful..

[ask-crutchie]

it's fine. i-- i'm fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Look at me.

*He gently takes his face in his hands.*

Snyder ever touches ya again, he gotta deal wit' me. He ain't ever gonna hurtchu anymore, that ain't gonna happen.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie flinches at the touch, but nods, his eyes filling with tears.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*The dark cloud in his mind increases when Crutchie flinches, but he doesn't let it show. That bastard....*

C'mere..

*He makes his movements clear and slow as to not scare him, pulling him into his arms with as much gentleness he can manage. It hurt so much to see his favourite person have to deal with the same things he has to and he wants to kill Snyder for causing this.*

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie lets jack hokd him. he starts shaking, holding onto jack like he's the only thing keeping him together.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack holds him close, encasing him in warmth. He softly rubs his back and careful to not hit any bruises or marks, trying to ease Crutchie's shaking. He doesn't try to stop him, just is there as a steady anchor in the storm.*

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[ask-crutchie]

just, uh, ‘bout the refuge n’ stuff. you don’t gotta worry ‘bout me jack, really, i’m fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Crutchie...

I's gonna worry 'bout my brother when he gets sent t' hell on Earth, da refuge does things t'ya.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie stares at jack for a few moments, and sighs with a small chuckle.*

you’re really not gonna give dis up, are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Naw way

[ask-crutchie]

it’s… awful. every night it’s somethin’ different. gettin’ beat till i’m bloody, most a’ da time, but some nights it’s you, or david, or racer, and i can’t do anythin’ but watch. and snyder, he stares straight at me the whole damn time till i can’t take it anymore and scream myself awake.

i jus’ can’t close my eyes without seein’ it, jack.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He listens, his heart sinking and his mind clouding. Crutchie never deserved this; he shouldn't be the one going through these nightmares plaguing his mind. It should've only been Jack himself.*

Awh, bud... I know, 's awful..

[ask-crutchie]

it's fine. i-- i'm fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Look at me.

*He gently takes his face in his hands.*

Snyder ever touches ya again, he gotta deal wit' me. He ain't ever gonna hurtchu anymore, that ain't gonna happen.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie flinches at the touch, but nods, his eyes filling with tears.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*The dark cloud in his mind increases when Crutchie flinches, but he doesn't let it show. That bastard....*

C'mere..

*He makes his movements clear and slow as to not scare him, pulling him into his arms with as much gentleness he can manage. It hurt so much to see his favourite person have to deal with the same things he has to and he wants to kill Snyder for causing this.*

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[ask-crutchie]

just, uh, ‘bout the refuge n’ stuff. you don’t gotta worry ‘bout me jack, really, i’m fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Crutchie...

I's gonna worry 'bout my brother when he gets sent t' hell on Earth, da refuge does things t'ya.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie stares at jack for a few moments, and sighs with a small chuckle.*

you’re really not gonna give dis up, are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Naw way

[ask-crutchie]

it’s… awful. every night it’s somethin’ different. gettin’ beat till i’m bloody, most a’ da time, but some nights it’s you, or david, or racer, and i can’t do anythin’ but watch. and snyder, he stares straight at me the whole damn time till i can’t take it anymore and scream myself awake.

i jus’ can’t close my eyes without seein’ it, jack.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He listens, his heart sinking and his mind clouding. Crutchie never deserved this; he shouldn't be the one going through these nightmares plaguing his mind. It should've only been Jack himself.*

Awh, bud... I know, 's awful..

[ask-crutchie]

it's fine. i-- i'm fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Look at me.

*He gently takes his face in his hands.*

Snyder ever touches ya again, he gotta deal wit' me. He ain't ever gonna hurtchu anymore, that ain't gonna happen.

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[ask-crutchie]

just, uh, ‘bout the refuge n’ stuff. you don’t gotta worry ‘bout me jack, really, i’m fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Crutchie...

I's gonna worry 'bout my brother when he gets sent t' hell on Earth, da refuge does things t'ya.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie stares at jack for a few moments, and sighs with a small chuckle.*

you’re really not gonna give dis up, are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Naw way

[ask-crutchie]

it’s… awful. every night it’s somethin’ different. gettin’ beat till i’m bloody, most a’ da time, but some nights it’s you, or david, or racer, and i can’t do anythin’ but watch. and snyder, he stares straight at me the whole damn time till i can’t take it anymore and scream myself awake.

i jus’ can’t close my eyes without seein’ it, jack.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He listens, his heart sinking and his mind clouding. Crutchie never deserved this; he shouldn't be the one going through these nightmares plaguing his mind. It should've only been Jack himself.*

Awh, bud... I know, 's awful..

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[ask-crutchie]

just, uh, ‘bout the refuge n’ stuff. you don’t gotta worry ‘bout me jack, really, i’m fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Crutchie...

I's gonna worry 'bout my brother when he gets sent t' hell on Earth, da refuge does things t'ya.

[ask-crutchie]

*crutchie stares at jack for a few moments, and sighs with a small chuckle.*

you’re really not gonna give dis up, are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Naw way

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[ask-crutchie]

just, uh, ‘bout the refuge n’ stuff. you don’t gotta worry ‘bout me jack, really, i’m fine.

[askk-jackkelly]

Crutchie...

I's gonna worry 'bout my brother when he gets sent t' hell on Earth, da refuge does things t'ya.

[ask-crutchie]

'Eya, Crutch. Ya ain't been sleepin' so good, huh?

-@askk-jackkelly

*my face falls and i look away a bit when you ask me that.*

i'm fine, jack. just a couple a' bad dreams, that's all.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack's heart breaks a bit.*

Tell me 'bout 'em.

[askk-jackkelly]

Heya jack it’s jack

@askjackkelly243

Oh boy, 2 me's?! Ya ain't as handsome as me....

[askmeddalarkin]

*It's the middle of the night and Jack comes bursting into the theatre, panting. His eyes were red and his cheeks were streaked with tears that glinted in the moonlight.*

Medda! Miss Medda...

-@askk-jackkelly

Jack?

*She lets go of what she was doing, and turns to him right away, hands on his shoulders.*

What happened? Take a breath, kid, calm down.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He threw himself into Medda's arms and gripped onto her, his knuckles white and shaking.*

Snyder, Medda, he's gonna get me! He's gonna get me, he already got Crutchie!...

*He sputtered between sobs and gasps for air. He was clearly out of it.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Breathe, Jack.

Deep breaths, alright? Is Crutchie missing? Have you seen Snyder at all? You passing out doesn't help anyone, least of all you.

[askk-jackkelly]

I can't!

[askmeddalarkin]

Yes you can.

[askk-jackkelly]

Nononono, Medda I- he's gonna hurt him...!

*The sound of something dropping from a nearby shelf made him flinch violently and yelp.*

He's here, he's gonna find me!

[askmeddalarkin]

Jack. Jack, look at me. I'm gonna do what I can, but you need to calm down. You're not helping Crutchie like this.

*She looks over at the shelf.*

That shelf. I told them to not put heavy things on it.

Easy. Easy, you're okay. Snyder won't get you in here.

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes he will!

[askmeddalarkin]

No. I'm not about to let him come in here and take you. You hear me, Jack?

*She hugs him.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He's still trapped his head, everything wonky. He still firmly believes he' in the nightmare and he clings to Medda with feverish grip, sobbing almost hysterically.*

He's gonna get me...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She holds him tight.*

No. No, he won't, Jack.

No one's gonna get you. No one.

*She rubs his back, trying to comfort him.*

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shaking is intense and his breathing stays shallow but erratic, hyperventilating.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Sit down. And breathe. Deep breaths, with me.

*She gently guides him to sit down, on a chair.*

It's okay, Jack. Take it slow.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He refuses to let go of Medda, clinging onto her with a white-knuckled grip.*

I c- I can't...

*His breath keeps catching in his throat and he can't get a ful breath in. Every time he exhales, another breath forces itself in his lungs way too quickly.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She just stays calm, both hands on his cheeks.*

I'm here. You're safe.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He grips onto Medda's arms, fighting with himself to breathe.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Breathe in. Look at me.

*She takes a deep breath, holding it.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He looks at her, tears streaming down his face and eyes glossy. His breath was hitching in sobs, but he tries to match her and breathe in.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She exhales, slowly.*

Good.

*She wipes his tears with her thumb, seeing him like this breaks her heart.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I can't...

*He whispers under his breath.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Yes you can, Jack Kelly.

I know you can.

*She pulls him close, rubbing his back again, trying to just do what she can.*

I know you're scared, worried, and all of it. I know. I'm here. I'm right here, Jack. If that Snyder wants you, he'll have to go through me, and I promise, he can't have you.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack buries his head into Medda's shoulder, practically vibrating with fear. His shoulders shake with sobs and he tries his hardest to breathe.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She reaches one arm out, stroking his hair, repeatedly, rubbing his back with the other, staying quiet, but calm.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He lifts his head just enough so his eyes dart around the room, taking in the familiar surroundings to try and register where he is.*

[askmeddalarkin]

You're not there. You're in the theatre. You're in my theatre. See? That there is the backdrop ya made. The one folks love.

[askk-jackkelly]

*His breathing starts to slow down, still fast, but he wasn't choking on his own breath and tears anymore.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks relieved.*

What happened, Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nightmare...

[askmeddalarkin]

Tell me about it?

[askk-jackkelly]

I was.. I was in the refuge, an- Snyder was gonna get me and it- it was real an' Crutchie wan't there, an'-

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks at him.*

It can feel real, but it wasn't. It isn't real.

[askk-jackkelly]

*His sobs were slowing down, tears still pouring steadily over his cheeks.

I ain't....

I ain't there...

[askmeddalarkin]

That's right. Where are you?

[askk-jackkelly]

'M in da theatre...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She nods.* Ain't no safer place, dear.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He takes a deep breath.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Think ya can sleep?

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna dream it again...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks over at him, then grabs a paper.*

Draw. Just get all those thoughts out.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He takes the paper starts making sketchy lines. His hands were shaky, translating onto the drawing, but as he kept going, the lines got steadier as the earlier fear started to leave him.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She watches him draw, quietly.*

Better?

[askk-jackkelly]

*He nods, his breathing slowing.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Keep drawing, Jack.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He keeps drawing and slowly comes back into reality, tension lessening.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She watches.*

Is that better?

[askk-jackkelly]

*He nods shakily and lets out a soft breath. His lines were steady and controlled, drifting seamlessly across the paper.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Jack? Where ya been?

( @askracehiggins)

I- uh.... Been at Medda's and Davey's a lot.

[askracehiggins]

What ya doin' that for?

Ya leavin' us again?

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

Racer...

[askracehiggins]

I just have ta know. If you's goin', someone gotta take over.

Ya can't just up an' leave!

*He sounds upset.*

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I ain't leavin.

[askracehiggins]

What's goin' on with ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nothin'. Crutchie's been hangin' out with you so I don't got much point in bein' in the lodge that much. 'S why I've been with Davey and Medda.

*He reassures, trying to calm him.*

[askracehiggins]

We's still ya's family. Ain't that what ya said?

We need ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

Buddy, i know, I ain't leavin' ya.

[askracehiggins]

*He fidgets with the cigar, sticks it in his mouth, then takes it out.*

Ya ain't been here.

[askk-jackkelly]

I's... I's been around, ain't i?

[askracehiggins]

Not as ya was.

Ya even noticed Finch been coughin' his lungs out all night?

[askk-jackkelly]

He's coughin' now too? Damnnit, that kid... I's been takin' care o' him in da daytime.

[askracehiggins]

Yeah, he's coughin'. Sounds bad.

[askk-jackkelly]

Damnnit...

*He runs a hand over his face.*

I can't hear 'im from da rooftop at night, ya gotta come get me, Racer.

[askracehiggins]

I was gonna.

Ya wasn't there.

[askk-jackkelly]

I wasn't...?

[askracehiggins]

No. Last night ya was gone.

[askk-jackkelly]

I...

[askracehiggins]

Ya what?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' uh.. something happened last night, had ta leave in the middle of the night.

[askracehiggins]

Don't tell me nothin', then!

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I's sorry.

[askracehiggins]

Are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes, I-I woulda been der..

[askracehiggins]

Why wasn't ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' came up, I had ta leave!

[askracehiggins]

Like what?!

[askk-jackkelly]

The darn refuge, Race! Felt like I was back der again, I couldn't stay! Crutchie ain't there, I had t' go to Medda's.

*He snaps, his voice catching at the end.*

[askracehiggins]

Like ya is the only one who's ever been in there!

[askk-jackkelly]

I ain't sayin' that I is!

[askracehiggins]

Ya wanna step down, at least tell us!

*His voice breaks too, upset, worried.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna leave youse, I ain't gonna!

*He turns his head away so Race doesn't see him.*

[askracehiggins]

Looks ta me like ya wanna!

[askk-jackkelly]

*He sniffs, his breath hitching.*

I ain't leavin' ya! That was one night, Race...

[askracehiggins]

But ya will. One day, ya is gonna walk outta this lodgin' house for good, an' ya know it.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ain't my fault everyone's got each other now! I don't want to leave my brothers but I ain't gonna sell papes 'till I'm 30!

*He looked scared, like he was a kid again.*

[askracehiggins]

Just 'cause ev'ryone does don't mean we don't need a leader! I looked up ta ya from the first time I saw ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He angrily scrubs at his face to wipe away the tears, trying to hide his real emotions by covering it up with looking mad. He was scared and hurt and guilty, he hated making his brothers upset.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even remember that?!

[askk-jackkelly]

*His fists clench, trying his hardest not to sob.*

[askracehiggins]

Answer me.

*He sounds genuinely upset, and hurt.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Yeah...

*His voice is broken.*

[askracehiggins]

I don't want nothin' ta change.

[askk-jackkelly]

It already has!

[askracehiggins]

That's what ya think!

What changed?!

[askk-jackkelly]

Everythin'!

*He shouts, looking at Race again. His eyes were red and watery, clearly on the verge of tears.*

Cructhie doesn't need me no more, he got you, Finch is on his deathbed and won't let no one help him, people ain't talkin with no one anymore, everyone's losin' themselves and splittin' up! Hell, Albert's in Brooklyn! I ain't seen him for months! We're fallin' apart!

[askracehiggins]

Crutchie still needs ya! I need ya. Finch needs ya, we's all needin' ya!

Albert's in Brooklyn 'cause o' Spot, but they's fallin' apart too! They's arguin'.

Find the fellas, or there ain't gonna be no Manhattan newsies no more.

[askk-jackkelly]

...

[askracehiggins]

Ya even listenin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shoulders shake with silent sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

*He looks even more upset.*

Maybe some o' us don't got no Santa Fe ta escape ta. This is all we's got, an' we ain't got nothin' if we ain't got each other.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He puts a hand over his mouth and looks away. His eyes were squeezed shut as his face crumples.*

[askracehiggins]

Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

I didn't wan' it ta be like this....

*He sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya gotta fix it.

[askk-jackkelly]

They don't wanna talk t' me, I dunno what else I can do!

*He struggles to compose himself and moves so Race can't see his face.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even tried talkin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes!

[askracehiggins]

Ya ain't talked to me, Specs or Sniper.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ya ain't ever there...

*He tries composing himself.*

[askracehiggins]

I's been here.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He pulls himself together and stops himself from crying.*

No ya ain't! Yer always with Crutchie and when yer not with him, yer hangin' with someone else.. Hell, even when yer sleepin' yer still with Crutchie.

[askracehiggins]

That what this is? Yeah I's got friends with tha other fellas! Just 'cause Davey ain't livin' here don't mean ya gotta act like ev'ryone hates ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

Oh, that ain't what this is and you know it.

[askk-jackkelly]

Jack? Where ya been?

( @askracehiggins)

I- uh.... Been at Medda's and Davey's a lot.

[askracehiggins]

What ya doin' that for?

Ya leavin' us again?

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

Racer...

[askracehiggins]

I just have ta know. If you's goin', someone gotta take over.

Ya can't just up an' leave!

*He sounds upset.*

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I ain't leavin.

[askracehiggins]

What's goin' on with ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nothin'. Crutchie's been hangin' out with you so I don't got much point in bein' in the lodge that much. 'S why I've been with Davey and Medda.

*He reassures, trying to calm him.*

[askracehiggins]

We's still ya's family. Ain't that what ya said?

We need ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

Buddy, i know, I ain't leavin' ya.

[askracehiggins]

*He fidgets with the cigar, sticks it in his mouth, then takes it out.*

Ya ain't been here.

[askk-jackkelly]

I's... I's been around, ain't i?

[askracehiggins]

Not as ya was.

Ya even noticed Finch been coughin' his lungs out all night?

[askk-jackkelly]

He's coughin' now too? Damnnit, that kid... I's been takin' care o' him in da daytime.

[askracehiggins]

Yeah, he's coughin'. Sounds bad.

[askk-jackkelly]

Damnnit...

*He runs a hand over his face.*

I can't hear 'im from da rooftop at night, ya gotta come get me, Racer.

[askracehiggins]

I was gonna.

Ya wasn't there.

[askk-jackkelly]

I wasn't...?

[askracehiggins]

No. Last night ya was gone.

[askk-jackkelly]

I...

[askracehiggins]

Ya what?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' uh.. something happened last night, had ta leave in the middle of the night.

[askracehiggins]

Don't tell me nothin', then!

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I's sorry.

[askracehiggins]

Are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes, I-I woulda been der..

[askracehiggins]

Why wasn't ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' came up, I had ta leave!

[askracehiggins]

Like what?!

[askk-jackkelly]

The darn refuge, Race! Felt like I was back der again, I couldn't stay! Crutchie ain't there, I had t' go to Medda's.

*He snaps, his voice catching at the end.*

[askracehiggins]

Like ya is the only one who's ever been in there!

[askk-jackkelly]

I ain't sayin' that I is!

[askracehiggins]

Ya wanna step down, at least tell us!

*His voice breaks too, upset, worried.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna leave youse, I ain't gonna!

*He turns his head away so Race doesn't see him.*

[askracehiggins]

Looks ta me like ya wanna!

[askk-jackkelly]

*He sniffs, his breath hitching.*

I ain't leavin' ya! That was one night, Race...

[askracehiggins]

But ya will. One day, ya is gonna walk outta this lodgin' house for good, an' ya know it.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ain't my fault everyone's got each other now! I don't want to leave my brothers but I ain't gonna sell papes 'till I'm 30!

*He looked scared, like he was a kid again.*

[askracehiggins]

Just 'cause ev'ryone does don't mean we don't need a leader! I looked up ta ya from the first time I saw ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He angrily scrubs at his face to wipe away the tears, trying to hide his real emotions by covering it up with looking mad. He was scared and hurt and guilty, he hated making his brothers upset.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even remember that?!

[askk-jackkelly]

*His fists clench, trying his hardest not to sob.*

[askracehiggins]

Answer me.

*He sounds genuinely upset, and hurt.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Yeah...

*His voice is broken.*

[askracehiggins]

I don't want nothin' ta change.

[askk-jackkelly]

It already has!

[askracehiggins]

That's what ya think!

What changed?!

[askk-jackkelly]

Everythin'!

*He shouts, looking at Race again. His eyes were red and watery, clearly on the verge of tears.*

Cructhie doesn't need me no more, he got you, Finch is on his deathbed and won't let no one help him, people ain't talkin with no one anymore, everyone's losin' themselves and splittin' up! Hell, Albert's in Brooklyn! I ain't seen him for months! We're fallin' apart!

[askracehiggins]

Crutchie still needs ya! I need ya. Finch needs ya, we's all needin' ya!

Albert's in Brooklyn 'cause o' Spot, but they's fallin' apart too! They's arguin'.

Find the fellas, or there ain't gonna be no Manhattan newsies no more.

[askk-jackkelly]

...

[askracehiggins]

Ya even listenin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shoulders shake with silent sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

*He looks even more upset.*

Maybe some o' us don't got no Santa Fe ta escape ta. This is all we's got, an' we ain't got nothin' if we ain't got each other.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He puts a hand over his mouth and looks away. His eyes were squeezed shut as his face crumples.*

[askracehiggins]

Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

I didn't wan' it ta be like this....

*He sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya gotta fix it.

[askk-jackkelly]

They don't wanna talk t' me, I dunno what else I can do!

*He struggles to compose himself and moves so Race can't see his face.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even tried talkin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes!

[askracehiggins]

Ya ain't talked to me, Specs or Sniper.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ya ain't ever there...

*He tries composing himself.*

[askracehiggins]

I's been here.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He pulls himself together and stops himself from crying.*

No ya ain't! Yer always with Crutchie and when yer not with him, yer hangin' with someone else.. Hell, even when yer sleepin' yer still with Crutchie.

[askmeddalarkin]

*It's the middle of the night and Jack comes bursting into the theatre, panting. His eyes were red and his cheeks were streaked with tears that glinted in the moonlight.*

Medda! Miss Medda...

-@askk-jackkelly

Jack?

*She lets go of what she was doing, and turns to him right away, hands on his shoulders.*

What happened? Take a breath, kid, calm down.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He threw himself into Medda's arms and gripped onto her, his knuckles white and shaking.*

Snyder, Medda, he's gonna get me! He's gonna get me, he already got Crutchie!...

*He sputtered between sobs and gasps for air. He was clearly out of it.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Breathe, Jack.

Deep breaths, alright? Is Crutchie missing? Have you seen Snyder at all? You passing out doesn't help anyone, least of all you.

[askk-jackkelly]

I can't!

[askmeddalarkin]

Yes you can.

[askk-jackkelly]

Nononono, Medda I- he's gonna hurt him...!

*The sound of something dropping from a nearby shelf made him flinch violently and yelp.*

He's here, he's gonna find me!

[askmeddalarkin]

Jack. Jack, look at me. I'm gonna do what I can, but you need to calm down. You're not helping Crutchie like this.

*She looks over at the shelf.*

That shelf. I told them to not put heavy things on it.

Easy. Easy, you're okay. Snyder won't get you in here.

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes he will!

[askmeddalarkin]

No. I'm not about to let him come in here and take you. You hear me, Jack?

*She hugs him.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He's still trapped his head, everything wonky. He still firmly believes he' in the nightmare and he clings to Medda with feverish grip, sobbing almost hysterically.*

He's gonna get me...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She holds him tight.*

No. No, he won't, Jack.

No one's gonna get you. No one.

*She rubs his back, trying to comfort him.*

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shaking is intense and his breathing stays shallow but erratic, hyperventilating.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Sit down. And breathe. Deep breaths, with me.

*She gently guides him to sit down, on a chair.*

It's okay, Jack. Take it slow.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He refuses to let go of Medda, clinging onto her with a white-knuckled grip.*

I c- I can't...

*His breath keeps catching in his throat and he can't get a ful breath in. Every time he exhales, another breath forces itself in his lungs way too quickly.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She just stays calm, both hands on his cheeks.*

I'm here. You're safe.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He grips onto Medda's arms, fighting with himself to breathe.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Breathe in. Look at me.

*She takes a deep breath, holding it.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He looks at her, tears streaming down his face and eyes glossy. His breath was hitching in sobs, but he tries to match her and breathe in.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She exhales, slowly.*

Good.

*She wipes his tears with her thumb, seeing him like this breaks her heart.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I can't...

*He whispers under his breath.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Yes you can, Jack Kelly.

I know you can.

*She pulls him close, rubbing his back again, trying to just do what she can.*

I know you're scared, worried, and all of it. I know. I'm here. I'm right here, Jack. If that Snyder wants you, he'll have to go through me, and I promise, he can't have you.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack buries his head into Medda's shoulder, practically vibrating with fear. His shoulders shake with sobs and he tries his hardest to breathe.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She reaches one arm out, stroking his hair, repeatedly, rubbing his back with the other, staying quiet, but calm.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He lifts his head just enough so his eyes dart around the room, taking in the familiar surroundings to try and register where he is.*

[askmeddalarkin]

You're not there. You're in the theatre. You're in my theatre. See? That there is the backdrop ya made. The one folks love.

[askk-jackkelly]

*His breathing starts to slow down, still fast, but he wasn't choking on his own breath and tears anymore.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks relieved.*

What happened, Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nightmare...

[askmeddalarkin]

Tell me about it?

[askk-jackkelly]

I was.. I was in the refuge, an- Snyder was gonna get me and it- it was real an' Crutchie wan't there, an'-

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks at him.*

It can feel real, but it wasn't. It isn't real.

[askk-jackkelly]

*His sobs were slowing down, tears still pouring steadily over his cheeks.

I ain't....

I ain't there...

[askmeddalarkin]

That's right. Where are you?

[askk-jackkelly]

'M in da theatre...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She nods.* Ain't no safer place, dear.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He takes a deep breath.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Think ya can sleep?

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna dream it again...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks over at him, then grabs a paper.*

Draw. Just get all those thoughts out.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He takes the paper starts making sketchy lines. His hands were shaky, translating onto the drawing, but as he kept going, the lines got steadier as the earlier fear started to leave him.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She watches him draw, quietly.*

Better?

[askk-jackkelly]

*He nods, his breathing slowing.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Keep drawing, Jack.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He keeps drawing and slowly comes back into reality, tension lessening.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Jack? Where ya been?

( @askracehiggins)

I- uh.... Been at Medda's and Davey's a lot.

[askracehiggins]

What ya doin' that for?

Ya leavin' us again?

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

Racer...

[askracehiggins]

I just have ta know. If you's goin', someone gotta take over.

Ya can't just up an' leave!

*He sounds upset.*

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I ain't leavin.

[askracehiggins]

What's goin' on with ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nothin'. Crutchie's been hangin' out with you so I don't got much point in bein' in the lodge that much. 'S why I've been with Davey and Medda.

*He reassures, trying to calm him.*

[askracehiggins]

We's still ya's family. Ain't that what ya said?

We need ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

Buddy, i know, I ain't leavin' ya.

[askracehiggins]

*He fidgets with the cigar, sticks it in his mouth, then takes it out.*

Ya ain't been here.

[askk-jackkelly]

I's... I's been around, ain't i?

[askracehiggins]

Not as ya was.

Ya even noticed Finch been coughin' his lungs out all night?

[askk-jackkelly]

He's coughin' now too? Damnnit, that kid... I's been takin' care o' him in da daytime.

[askracehiggins]

Yeah, he's coughin'. Sounds bad.

[askk-jackkelly]

Damnnit...

*He runs a hand over his face.*

I can't hear 'im from da rooftop at night, ya gotta come get me, Racer.

[askracehiggins]

I was gonna.

Ya wasn't there.

[askk-jackkelly]

I wasn't...?

[askracehiggins]

No. Last night ya was gone.

[askk-jackkelly]

I...

[askracehiggins]

Ya what?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' uh.. something happened last night, had ta leave in the middle of the night.

[askracehiggins]

Don't tell me nothin', then!

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I's sorry.

[askracehiggins]

Are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes, I-I woulda been der..

[askracehiggins]

Why wasn't ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' came up, I had ta leave!

[askracehiggins]

Like what?!

[askk-jackkelly]

The darn refuge, Race! Felt like I was back der again, I couldn't stay! Crutchie ain't there, I had t' go to Medda's.

*He snaps, his voice catching at the end.*

[askracehiggins]

Like ya is the only one who's ever been in there!

[askk-jackkelly]

I ain't sayin' that I is!

[askracehiggins]

Ya wanna step down, at least tell us!

*His voice breaks too, upset, worried.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna leave youse, I ain't gonna!

*He turns his head away so Race doesn't see him.*

[askracehiggins]

Looks ta me like ya wanna!

[askk-jackkelly]

*He sniffs, his breath hitching.*

I ain't leavin' ya! That was one night, Race...

[askracehiggins]

But ya will. One day, ya is gonna walk outta this lodgin' house for good, an' ya know it.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ain't my fault everyone's got each other now! I don't want to leave my brothers but I ain't gonna sell papes 'till I'm 30!

*He looked scared, like he was a kid again.*

[askracehiggins]

Just 'cause ev'ryone does don't mean we don't need a leader! I looked up ta ya from the first time I saw ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He angrily scrubs at his face to wipe away the tears, trying to hide his real emotions by covering it up with looking mad. He was scared and hurt and guilty, he hated making his brothers upset.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even remember that?!

[askk-jackkelly]

*His fists clench, trying his hardest not to sob.*

[askracehiggins]

Answer me.

*He sounds genuinely upset, and hurt.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Yeah...

*His voice is broken.*

[askracehiggins]

I don't want nothin' ta change.

[askk-jackkelly]

It already has!

[askracehiggins]

That's what ya think!

What changed?!

[askk-jackkelly]

Everythin'!

*He shouts, looking at Race again. His eyes were red and watery, clearly on the verge of tears.*

Cructhie doesn't need me no more, he got you, Finch is on his deathbed and won't let no one help him, people ain't talkin with no one anymore, everyone's losin' themselves and splittin' up! Hell, Albert's in Brooklyn! I ain't seen him for months! We're fallin' apart!

[askracehiggins]

Crutchie still needs ya! I need ya. Finch needs ya, we's all needin' ya!

Albert's in Brooklyn 'cause o' Spot, but they's fallin' apart too! They's arguin'.

Find the fellas, or there ain't gonna be no Manhattan newsies no more.

[askk-jackkelly]

...

[askracehiggins]

Ya even listenin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shoulders shake with silent sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

*He looks even more upset.*

Maybe some o' us don't got no Santa Fe ta escape ta. This is all we's got, an' we ain't got nothin' if we ain't got each other.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He puts a hand over his mouth and looks away. His eyes were squeezed shut as his face crumples.*

[askracehiggins]

Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

I didn't wan' it ta be like this....

*He sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya gotta fix it.

[askk-jackkelly]

They don't wanna talk t' me, I dunno what else I can do!

*He struggles to compose himself and moves so Race can't see his face.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even tried talkin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes!

[askracehiggins]

Ya ain't talked to me, Specs or Sniper.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ya ain't ever there...

*He tries composing himself.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*It's the middle of the night and Jack comes bursting into the theatre, panting. His eyes were red and his cheeks were streaked with tears that glinted in the moonlight.*

Medda! Miss Medda...

-@askk-jackkelly

Jack?

*She lets go of what she was doing, and turns to him right away, hands on his shoulders.*

What happened? Take a breath, kid, calm down.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He threw himself into Medda's arms and gripped onto her, his knuckles white and shaking.*

Snyder, Medda, he's gonna get me! He's gonna get me, he already got Crutchie!...

*He sputtered between sobs and gasps for air. He was clearly out of it.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Breathe, Jack.

Deep breaths, alright? Is Crutchie missing? Have you seen Snyder at all? You passing out doesn't help anyone, least of all you.

[askk-jackkelly]

I can't!

[askmeddalarkin]

Yes you can.

[askk-jackkelly]

Nononono, Medda I- he's gonna hurt him...!

*The sound of something dropping from a nearby shelf made him flinch violently and yelp.*

He's here, he's gonna find me!

[askmeddalarkin]

Jack. Jack, look at me. I'm gonna do what I can, but you need to calm down. You're not helping Crutchie like this.

*She looks over at the shelf.*

That shelf. I told them to not put heavy things on it.

Easy. Easy, you're okay. Snyder won't get you in here.

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes he will!

[askmeddalarkin]

No. I'm not about to let him come in here and take you. You hear me, Jack?

*She hugs him.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He's still trapped his head, everything wonky. He still firmly believes he' in the nightmare and he clings to Medda with feverish grip, sobbing almost hysterically.*

He's gonna get me...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She holds him tight.*

No. No, he won't, Jack.

No one's gonna get you. No one.

*She rubs his back, trying to comfort him.*

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shaking is intense and his breathing stays shallow but erratic, hyperventilating.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Sit down. And breathe. Deep breaths, with me.

*She gently guides him to sit down, on a chair.*

It's okay, Jack. Take it slow.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He refuses to let go of Medda, clinging onto her with a white-knuckled grip.*

I c- I can't...

*His breath keeps catching in his throat and he can't get a ful breath in. Every time he exhales, another breath forces itself in his lungs way too quickly.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She just stays calm, both hands on his cheeks.*

I'm here. You're safe.

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

*He grips onto Medda's arms, fighting with himself to breathe.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Breathe in. Look at me.

*She takes a deep breath, holding it.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He looks at her, tears streaming down his face and eyes glossy. His breath was hitching in sobs, but he tries to match her and breathe in.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She exhales, slowly.*

Good.

*She wipes his tears with her thumb, seeing him like this breaks her heart.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I can't...

*He whispers under his breath.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Yes you can, Jack Kelly.

I know you can.

*She pulls him close, rubbing his back again, trying to just do what she can.*

I know you're scared, worried, and all of it. I know. I'm here. I'm right here, Jack. If that Snyder wants you, he'll have to go through me, and I promise, he can't have you.

[askk-jackkelly]

*Jack buries his head into Medda's shoulder, practically vibrating with fear. His shoulders shake with sobs and he tries his hardest to breathe.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She reaches one arm out, stroking his hair, repeatedly, rubbing his back with the other, staying quiet, but calm.*

[askk-jackkelly]

*He lifts his head just enough so his eyes dart around the room, taking in the familiar surroundings to try and register where he is.*

[askmeddalarkin]

You're not there. You're in the theatre. You're in my theatre. See? That there is the backdrop ya made. The one folks love.

[askk-jackkelly]

*His breathing starts to slow down, still fast, but he wasn't choking on his own breath and tears anymore.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks relieved.*

What happened, Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nightmare...

[askmeddalarkin]

Tell me about it?

[askk-jackkelly]

I was.. I was in the refuge, an- Snyder was gonna get me and it- it was real an' Crutchie wan't there, an'-

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks at him.*

It can feel real, but it wasn't. It isn't real.

[askk-jackkelly]

*His sobs were slowing down, tears still pouring steadily over his cheeks.

I ain't....

I ain't there...

[askmeddalarkin]

That's right. Where are you?

[askk-jackkelly]

'M in da theatre...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She nods.* Ain't no safer place, dear.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He takes a deep breath.*

[askmeddalarkin]

Think ya can sleep?

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna dream it again...

[askmeddalarkin]

*She looks over at him, then grabs a paper.*

Draw. Just get all those thoughts out.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He takes the paper starts making sketchy lines. His hands were shaky, translating onto the drawing, but as he kept going, the lines got steadier as the earlier fear started to leave him.*

[askmeddalarkin]

*She watches him draw, quietly.*

Better?

[askk-jackkelly]

*He nods, his breathing slowing.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Jack? Where ya been?

( @askracehiggins)

I- uh.... Been at Medda's and Davey's a lot.

[askracehiggins]

What ya doin' that for?

Ya leavin' us again?

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

Racer...

[askracehiggins]

I just have ta know. If you's goin', someone gotta take over.

Ya can't just up an' leave!

*He sounds upset.*

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I ain't leavin.

[askracehiggins]

What's goin' on with ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nothin'. Crutchie's been hangin' out with you so I don't got much point in bein' in the lodge that much. 'S why I've been with Davey and Medda.

*He reassures, trying to calm him.*

[askracehiggins]

We's still ya's family. Ain't that what ya said?

We need ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

Buddy, i know, I ain't leavin' ya.

[askracehiggins]

*He fidgets with the cigar, sticks it in his mouth, then takes it out.*

Ya ain't been here.

[askk-jackkelly]

I's... I's been around, ain't i?

[askracehiggins]

Not as ya was.

Ya even noticed Finch been coughin' his lungs out all night?

[askk-jackkelly]

He's coughin' now too? Damnnit, that kid... I's been takin' care o' him in da daytime.

[askracehiggins]

Yeah, he's coughin'. Sounds bad.

[askk-jackkelly]

Damnnit...

*He runs a hand over his face.*

I can't hear 'im from da rooftop at night, ya gotta come get me, Racer.

[askracehiggins]

I was gonna.

Ya wasn't there.

[askk-jackkelly]

I wasn't...?

[askracehiggins]

No. Last night ya was gone.

[askk-jackkelly]

I...

[askracehiggins]

Ya what?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' uh.. something happened last night, had ta leave in the middle of the night.

[askracehiggins]

Don't tell me nothin', then!

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I's sorry.

[askracehiggins]

Are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes, I-I woulda been der..

[askracehiggins]

Why wasn't ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' came up, I had ta leave!

[askracehiggins]

Like what?!

[askk-jackkelly]

The darn refuge, Race! Felt like I was back der again, I couldn't stay! Crutchie ain't there, I had t' go to Medda's.

*He snaps, his voice catching at the end.*

[askracehiggins]

Like ya is the only one who's ever been in there!

[askk-jackkelly]

I ain't sayin' that I is!

[askracehiggins]

Ya wanna step down, at least tell us!

*His voice breaks too, upset, worried.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna leave youse, I ain't gonna!

*He turns his head away so Race doesn't see him.*

[askracehiggins]

Looks ta me like ya wanna!

[askk-jackkelly]

*He sniffs, his breath hitching.*

I ain't leavin' ya! That was one night, Race...

[askracehiggins]

But ya will. One day, ya is gonna walk outta this lodgin' house for good, an' ya know it.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ain't my fault everyone's got each other now! I don't want to leave my brothers but I ain't gonna sell papes 'till I'm 30!

*He looked scared, like he was a kid again.*

[askracehiggins]

Just 'cause ev'ryone does don't mean we don't need a leader! I looked up ta ya from the first time I saw ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He angrily scrubs at his face to wipe away the tears, trying to hide his real emotions by covering it up with looking mad. He was scared and hurt and guilty, he hated making his brothers upset.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even remember that?!

[askk-jackkelly]

*His fists clench, trying his hardest not to sob.*

[askracehiggins]

Answer me.

*He sounds genuinely upset, and hurt.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Yeah...

*His voice is broken.*

[askracehiggins]

I don't want nothin' ta change.

[askk-jackkelly]

It already has!

[askracehiggins]

That's what ya think!

What changed?!

[askk-jackkelly]

Everythin'!

*He shouts, looking at Race again. His eyes were red and watery, clearly on the verge of tears.*

Cructhie doesn't need me no more, he got you, Finch is on his deathbed and won't let no one help him, people ain't talkin with no one anymore, everyone's losin' themselves and splittin' up! Hell, Albert's in Brooklyn! I ain't seen him for months! We're fallin' apart!

[askracehiggins]

Crutchie still needs ya! I need ya. Finch needs ya, we's all needin' ya!

Albert's in Brooklyn 'cause o' Spot, but they's fallin' apart too! They's arguin'.

Find the fellas, or there ain't gonna be no Manhattan newsies no more.

[askk-jackkelly]

...

[askracehiggins]

Ya even listenin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shoulders shake with silent sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

*He looks even more upset.*

Maybe some o' us don't got no Santa Fe ta escape ta. This is all we's got, an' we ain't got nothin' if we ain't got each other.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He puts a hand over his mouth and looks away. His eyes were squeezed shut as his face crumples.*

[askracehiggins]

Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

I didn't wan' it ta be like this....

*He sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya gotta fix it.

[askk-jackkelly]

They don't wanna talk t' me, I dunno what else I can do!

*He struggles to compose himself and moves so Race can't see his face.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even tried talkin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes!

[askk-jackkelly]

Jack? Where ya been?

( @askracehiggins)

I- uh.... Been at Medda's and Davey's a lot.

[askracehiggins]

What ya doin' that for?

Ya leavin' us again?

( @askk-jackkelly )

[askk-jackkelly]

Racer...

[askracehiggins]

I just have ta know. If you's goin', someone gotta take over.

Ya can't just up an' leave!

*He sounds upset.*

( @askk-jackkelly)

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I ain't leavin.

[askracehiggins]

What's goin' on with ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Nothin'. Crutchie's been hangin' out with you so I don't got much point in bein' in the lodge that much. 'S why I've been with Davey and Medda.

*He reassures, trying to calm him.*

[askracehiggins]

We's still ya's family. Ain't that what ya said?

We need ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

Buddy, i know, I ain't leavin' ya.

[askracehiggins]

*He fidgets with the cigar, sticks it in his mouth, then takes it out.*

Ya ain't been here.

[askk-jackkelly]

I's... I's been around, ain't i?

[askracehiggins]

Not as ya was.

Ya even noticed Finch been coughin' his lungs out all night?

[askk-jackkelly]

He's coughin' now too? Damnnit, that kid... I's been takin' care o' him in da daytime.

[askracehiggins]

Yeah, he's coughin'. Sounds bad.

[askk-jackkelly]

Damnnit...

*He runs a hand over his face.*

I can't hear 'im from da rooftop at night, ya gotta come get me, Racer.

[askracehiggins]

I was gonna.

Ya wasn't there.

[askk-jackkelly]

I wasn't...?

[askracehiggins]

No. Last night ya was gone.

[askk-jackkelly]

I...

[askracehiggins]

Ya what?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' uh.. something happened last night, had ta leave in the middle of the night.

[askracehiggins]

Don't tell me nothin', then!

[askk-jackkelly]

Race, I's sorry.

[askracehiggins]

Are ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Yes, I-I woulda been der..

[askracehiggins]

Why wasn't ya?

[askk-jackkelly]

Somethin' came up, I had ta leave!

[askracehiggins]

Like what?!

[askk-jackkelly]

The darn refuge, Race! Felt like I was back der again, I couldn't stay! Crutchie ain't there, I had t' go to Medda's.

*He snaps, his voice catching at the end.*

[askracehiggins]

Like ya is the only one who's ever been in there!

[askk-jackkelly]

I ain't sayin' that I is!

[askracehiggins]

Ya wanna step down, at least tell us!

*His voice breaks too, upset, worried.*

[askk-jackkelly]

I don't wanna leave youse, I ain't gonna!

*He turns his head away so Race doesn't see him.*

[askracehiggins]

Looks ta me like ya wanna!

[askk-jackkelly]

*He sniffs, his breath hitching.*

I ain't leavin' ya! That was one night, Race...

[askracehiggins]

But ya will. One day, ya is gonna walk outta this lodgin' house for good, an' ya know it.

[askk-jackkelly]

Ain't my fault everyone's got each other now! I don't want to leave my brothers but I ain't gonna sell papes 'till I'm 30!

*He looked scared, like he was a kid again.*

[askracehiggins]

Just 'cause ev'ryone does don't mean we don't need a leader! I looked up ta ya from the first time I saw ya.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He angrily scrubs at his face to wipe away the tears, trying to hide his real emotions by covering it up with looking mad. He was scared and hurt and guilty, he hated making his brothers upset.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya even remember that?!

[askk-jackkelly]

*His fists clench, trying his hardest not to sob.*

[askracehiggins]

Answer me.

*He sounds genuinely upset, and hurt.*

[askk-jackkelly]

Yeah...

*His voice is broken.*

[askracehiggins]

I don't want nothin' ta change.

[askk-jackkelly]

It already has!

[askracehiggins]

That's what ya think!

What changed?!

[askk-jackkelly]

Everythin'!

*He shouts, looking at Race again. His eyes were red and watery, clearly on the verge of tears.*

Cructhie doesn't need me no more, he got you, Finch is on his deathbed and won't let no one help him, people ain't talkin with no one anymore, everyone's losin' themselves and splittin' up! Hell, Albert's in Brooklyn! I ain't seen him for months! We're fallin' apart!

[askracehiggins]

Crutchie still needs ya! I need ya. Finch needs ya, we's all needin' ya!

Albert's in Brooklyn 'cause o' Spot, but they's fallin' apart too! They's arguin'.

Find the fellas, or there ain't gonna be no Manhattan newsies no more.

[askk-jackkelly]

...

[askracehiggins]

Ya even listenin'?

[askk-jackkelly]

*His shoulders shake with silent sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

*He looks even more upset.*

Maybe some o' us don't got no Santa Fe ta escape ta. This is all we's got, an' we ain't got nothin' if we ain't got each other.

[askk-jackkelly]

*He puts a hand over his mouth and looks away. His eyes were squeezed shut as his face crumples.*

[askracehiggins]

Jack?

[askk-jackkelly]

I didn't wan' it ta be like this....

*He sobs.*

[askracehiggins]

Ya gotta fix it.

[askk-jackkelly]

They don't wanna talk t' me, I dunno what else I can do!

*He struggles to compose himself and moves so Race can't see his face.*