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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

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Peek-A-Boo

First things first, I don’t own anything related to Disney or Newsies. Second of all, this is a continuation of my “Extra Extra Read All About It” story. You don’t necessarily need to read it to understand this one but it might fill in some blanks.

December 11, 1902 4:00pm

From the moment Race held Samantha, or Sammi as she was often called by her uncle, he was hooked and vowed to protect her from whatever came her way, which at this moment was the coffee table she was holding onto. She had turned 1 just a few weeks ago and the Kelly’s had thrown a big birthday party to celebrate. Sammi was the only grandchild of Katherine’s parents and the only niece of the Newsies, so there were plenty of people to celebrate her.

“Such a big girl.” Race’s face broke out into a smile as she successfully stood, balanced with a delicate hand on the coffee table. “Look at you Sammi!”

Katherine grinned watching Race and her daughter. “She’s getting more brave every single day. Giving me and Jack more than enough scares.”

“At least she’s not walking yet.” Race grinned, looking up at his sister. “But then again I supposed it only a matter of time before that happens.”

Nodding, Kat smoothed her daughter’s brunette curls down. “That’s what I’m told - she’s only 13 months old but my mom said I took my first steps soon after my first birthday.”

Sammi bounced to a sound she had only known, cracking a gummy smile at her mom and uncle. “Yous such a sweetheart, arencha? Going to break all the boys hearts, arencha Sammi?”

“Those boys gonna have to gets through all the Newsies first.” Jack had just come through the door, shutting it tightly behind him, only hearing Race’s words.

Kat laughed, shaking her head. “Settle down Cowboy. She won’t be dating for another 10 to 15 years, if she’s anything like her daddy.”

“Thank goodness the Newsies know how to soak a boy.” Race grinned as Jack came into the living room.

Jack chuckled. “Oh no, we’re teaching Samantha hows to throws a punch. Shes not gonna rely on anyone.”

Kat merely rolled her eyes, heading to the kitchen to start on dinner. “Race you stayin’?”

“If yous don’t mind.”

She laughed. “Of course not. How’s your job going?”

He had recently taken a job at the newly opened Algonquin Hotel doing odd jobs within the hotel. Sometime he would work the front desk, other times balancing the books, but more often than not, he would be in the kitchen cooking. He didn’t think he would enjoy it, but everyday he looked forward to going to work.

“Good. Different but good.” He smirked. “Besides, more often than not, Is get to flirt with pretty girls and Is like the work - learnin’ lots.”

Jack raised his eyebrow at the comment. “And whats your boyfriend got to say about that?”

“What the King of Brooklyn doesn’t know . . .” Race rolled his eyes at the couple, but he was happy he had them both in his life. He didn’t know where he’d be without them. “Spot doesn’t mind, as longs as I come home every night.”

Jack shook his head before reaching over and shaking Race’s head. “You and Conlon, who woulds guess?”

“Leave them alone Jack. They’re happy. Besides, you said you like Spot.” Kat called from the kitchen, causing Race to raise an eyebrow at Jack.

“Oh really, Cowboy? You like Spot?” Race chuckled. “Wait until I tell him that.”

Jack tried to back peddle only to be met with laughter from Kat and Race. “Sammi you’re still my best girl. Your mumma and uncle are being mean to dada.”

Jack continued to carry on a conversation with the 13-month old while Race shook his head and headed into the kitchen. “Anythings I can help with?”

“You can set the table.” Race was over at the house more than any of the Newsies so he knew where everything was. “By the way, how’s Albert? Haven’t seen him the last few times we’ve been at the lodging house.”

Race smiled, thinking about his friend. “Yous didn't hear this from me but hes got a pretty girl.”

“Albert DaSilva has a girl?” Kat’s jaw dropped. Albert was notorious for being the biggest flirt as he hopped from girl to girl. “For how long?”

“I think it’s been 6 weeks. She’s a factory girl over in Brooklyn.” Race grinned. “He in luv or so Romeo keeps telling me.”

Kat raised an eyebrow. “Have you met her?”

One of the many reasons Kat loved having Race over at the Kelly House was that he always had the gossip and latest news of the Newsies and Kat was his favorite person to spill all the dirt to. “Not yet. Is think I will this week when he and I has lunch togetha.”

“You’ll keep me posted?” Race laughed, finished setting the table and nodded in his sister’s direction. “Of course!”

Soon dinner was ready. Sammi was put in her high chair that was seated at the dinner while the adults took their normal chairs. Conversation was minimum as they all ate but Jack smirked at his brother and wife. “So Race, what are you doing on Saturday?”

Taking a moment to think, he shook his head. “Spot and I have plans thats night. Whys?”

“Wanna watch Sammi so we can get some shopping done?” Christmas was only two weeks away and he knew Kat and Jack had been stumped on what to get Sammi.

He shrugged. “Sures. Wes can have some quality niece-uncle time.”

Soon after dinner, he wished them all good night before making the trek back to Brooklyn. Pulling his coat tighter around him, he always forgot how cold the New York December was. Soon enough, he walked up the stairs to his and Spot’s apartment. “Where have you been?”

“I toldsya I was going to Jack’s since I havents seen Sammi and Kat in a while.” Race took off his coat before giving the mean Brooklyn boy a hug. “Sorry Is had you worried.”

Spot pouted. “No I remember you saying something, just thought it was a diff’ent day than todays.”

Race leaned over and kissed him, humming in content. “Is watching Sammi on Saturday, you in?”

Spot tightened his hold on his boy, deepening the kiss. He quirked an eyebrow at Race, “I suppose. How hard can she be?”

The two moved into the living room, setting on the couch, content in the quietness that had settled in the small one-bedroom apartment. “I love you, Race. I’m glad you’re home.”

Humming in contentment, Race snuggled into Spot’s arms. “I love you too Spot. Oh, by the way, Jack Kelly actually likes you - he admitted it earlier today.”

“I gets hes your brotha and all but Is still on the fence with him.” Spot joked, looking down at Race, who merely shrugged.

“As long as yous play nice when Is around, Is okay with that.” Race sighed, closing his eyes as the long day caught up with him. Before he knew it, Spot was nudging him, mentioning something about sleep. Sleep was good; one day closer to watching Sammi and enjoying some time with her.

December 13, 1902 10:00am

They had trekked through the 6 inches of fresh fallen snow to get to the Kelly house. Knocking off the snow before entering the foyer, they could hear the belly laugh of Sammi floating through the house.

“Jack’s winding her up for whatever reason.” Kat greeted them as they kicked off their shoes before each giving her a hug. “Jack, Spot and Race are here.”

Jack came from the hallway leading to the bedrooms with a still giggling Sammi. Her eyes lit up as soon as she saw Race and tried to jump from her father’s arms into her uncle’s. “Hi Sammi.”

“Abandoned by my own child.” Jack pouted, giving Spot and Race a hug. “How bad was the walk?”

“More cold than anythin’. Winds brutal.” Spot said, watching Race cuddle their niece and whisper all the things they were gonna do while Kat and Jack shopped. “Makes sure ya bundle up.”

Helping Kat with her coat, Jack nodded. “We won’t be long . . . just going down the street ta a couple of shops.”

“I left some things out in case she gets hungry.” Kat pressed a kiss to Sammi’s head. “Race, ya know where everything is.”

They soon left, leaving the two young men with a baby. Spot raised an eye at Race, trying to figure out what they’d do now. Race just laughed. “Come on.”

Leading Spot to the living room, Race grabbed a couple of toys for Sammi to play with. The two made themselves at home, listening to Sammi babble, while grabbing a rattle.

Three hours later

Jack slowly opened the front door, hearing absolute silence in the house. Glancing backwards, he raised an eyebrow at Kat before walking all the way in. Grinning, he took in the site that greeted him. “Kat get a look at this.”

Stepping up to his side, her face softened at the scene on the couch. Spot had his arm around Race, who cradled Sammi in his arms. All three of them were fast asleep, snoring softly in tune with one another.

They watched the three for a moment, before quickly putting away all of the bags and boxes they had collected while out. After that was done, Jack and Kat lowered themselves on the opposite couch and just observed.

“They’d make good parents.” Kat mused, watching Race turn his face into Spot’s chest. Jack hummed, knowing how much the two adored their little girl.

“Do we dare wake them?” Jack whispered back, smirking at the fun they could have.

Race groaned, opening his eyes slightly. He saw Jack and Kat smirk at him, before looking at Spot and Sammi. “Shit; we fell asleep.”

“Did she wear you out?” Kat grinned watching Race sit up, holding Sammi to his chest so she wouldn’t fall off.

Race thought back on the past few hours. “She played, ate lunch, and full on cried after lunch. Spot was freakin’ out ‘cause hes worried he did something. So we curled up ons the couch and fell asleep.”

“Why was Spot freakin’ out?” Jack took Sammi from him to go lay her down in her bed. “He’s been around her plenty.”

Race grinned. “Theys played peek-a-boo and he boos her and she started cryin’. Hes worried hes upset her. I tolds him its naptime. So I bounced her likes yous showed me and started singing her that one song and shes settled down.”

“Aww . . .” Kat smiled. “I can’t believe you got the King of Brooklyn to play peek-a-boo.”

Looking over his shoulder at his still sleeping boyfriend, Race chuckled. “Is didn’t make him do nothin’. He won’t admit it but hes loves that little girl.”

“Well with her Uncle Race and Uncle Spot lookin’ after her, she’ll be alright.” Kat grinned.

Race moved over to the couch to wake Spot up. Race’s favorite thing about Spot was just after he woke up - the confusion and the pout on his face took Race’s breathe away every single time. “Time to wake up sleepyhead.”

“Where’s Sammi? Did I drop her?” The freakout as Spot’s brain caught up with him made Race smile tenderly.

“Jack has hers. Shes alright.” Race offered Spot a hand, pulling him to his feet. “Ready to go home?”

Kat joined them, pulling Race into a hug. “Thanks for watching her. I’m glad you two got to spend some time with her.”

“Anytime, Kat, anytime.” Spot mentioned, giving Kat a hug.

Race walked down the hallway to Sammi’s room. He watched Jack stand over her cradle, watching his little girl sleep. Jack had always been the fierce protector, and Race knew that having a child of his own, would do little to change his brother.

“Hey, wes leaving.” Race whispered, catching Jack’s attention. Nodding, he joined Race in the hallway before pulling his brother into a hug. “Thanks for watchin’ her. Its good to spend some time with Kat.”

“Anytime Cowboy. Just let us know whens to watch her again.” Race grinned, walking back into the living room to see Kat and Spot chatting.

Saying their final goodbyes and hugs, the two men left the brownstone heading back to their own cozy apartment. All was right in the world - fresh snow, a crisp smell in the air, his love by his side, and a family that would always be there for him. He couldn’t be happier.

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#newsies #fan fiction #writing #dancerlittle006 #the many adventures of sammi & race

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

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History Repeating Itself - The Many Adventures of Sammi and Race

First things first, I don’t own anything related to Disney or Newsies. Second of all, this is a continuation of my “The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race” series. You may want to read the others in the series but it’s not necessary! As always, feedback is always appreciated and loved!!!

October 1909

Life had changed a lot in the last 2 years, that was an understatement to say the least. Along with Ellie and Ben, Spot and Race had adopted Maisie Eliza Higgins-Conlon about a year and half ago. Katherine and Jack added Lucas Michael Kelly in December 1908. Both couples had announced they were done with children and were excited to see their families continue to grow up and learn about the world around them.

Which leads up to the current day. Race had volunteered to pick Sammi and Ellie up from school that sunny, unusually warm October day. He was standing outside the school building with half a dozen other parents waiting for the bell to ring.

With the loud ringing of the bell, he was on the lookout for the two girls, who would usually meet up before walking out together. He spotted Sammi, tugging Ellie’s hand as they descended the stairs. “Uncle Race!” “Da!”

He grinned at the two names as the two came flying towards him. He crouched down, opening his arms letting them fly into his embrace as he laughed. “Mys two favorite girls. Hows school?”

“Good” Ellie quipped, grinning brightly at her da.

Race looked at Sammi who was biting her lip, nervous about something. “Sammi? Good day?”

“Uh yea.” She was distracted by something but he let it go for now. He knew she would ask when she was comfortable.

Race stood up, offering a hand to both girls. “Alright, let’s get going. Wes having family dinner tonight and Papa/Uncle Spottie is grilling out. Should we stop at the market for some veggies?”

The two girls cheered as they walked down the street. Sammi held onto his hand as Ellie skipped ahead, giggling at something. He tugged on Sammi’s hand as she looked up at him. “Yous okay, Sammi?”

“Yea but Is need to ask yous and daddy somethin’.” She said, giving him a grin. “Can wes talk about it later?”

Race nodded. “Of course, Sammi. Wes talk later on tonight after dinner.”

She smiled, satisfied with his answer before dropping his hand and skipping alongside Ellie. Race watched the two girls, who had gotten even closer as they had gotten older, giggle about something he wouldn’t even start to understand.

“Geeze yous walk really slow, Uncle Race.” Sammi gave him a look, while Ellie giggled as he joined them in front of the market.

Race’s jaw dropped but secretly loved that his niece was sassy. “Yous trouble, Miss Kelly. Wait until Is tells your momma.”

“Momma will just laugh.” Sammi grinned, walking into the market with Ellie behind her as Race was stunned by her. She was a force to be wreckin with since the day she was born and had only grown in her confidence. It was a wonder to behold.

They walked through the market, grabbing some cucumbers, peppers, and radishes. “Can we get apples?”

“For what, Ellie girl?” Race asked, bagging up the radishes.

Ellie grinned, looking at her da with bright eyes. “Can papa make a pie?”

Race shook his head. Spot had been making pies throughout the autumn with apples they had gone picking with the Kelly family a few weeks ago. “Is think wes have apples at home, El.”

“But not theses ones.” She pointed to the granny smith apples.

Race shook his head, trying to stay strong against his daughter. But he lost that battle with a sigh. “Alright, pick seven out and wes have papa make a pie.”

Gathering the fruit and vegetables, they made their way to the checkout before paying everything and heading to the brownstone.

Sammi ran ahead and threw open the front door with a flourish and a yell, causing Katherine to yell at her daughter, as Race closed the door behind him. “You need to enter the home quieter, Samantha!”

“But momma Is knew you’d be here.” She grinned, hugging her mom before going over to greet her father and Uncle Spot. Tulip followed her around, loving the little girls and all the cuddles they had given the puppy over the last few years.

The first few minutes anytime the two families were together was pure chaos. All the kids greeted one another while the adults did the same, usually Tulip barking for whosoever attention she could get. Tommy, Benny, Lizzie and Maisie were playing with trucks and dolls in the living room, while Lucas was in the bassinet sleeping peacefully. Sammi and Ellie dropped their book bags before wandering over to where the littles were playing.

“Sammi, Ellie where do your bags go?” Spot asked, looking at the two older girls. They both sighed, going to put their bags on the bench in the hallway.

Race soaked in the quietness that had descended on the house before wandering into the kitchen to greet Spot. “Hi love.”

“Hi yourself.” Spot pulled him into a kiss before he greeted Kat. “How was pick up?”

Race grabbed a carrot before shrugging. “Nothing different than usual. Wes stopped and picked up some veggies. Yous daughter insisted on getting apples so yous can make a pie.”

Spot rose an eyebrow in question. “My daughter?”

“She’s in rare form today.” Turning to look at Kat, he grinned. “As is yous daughter.”

Kat laughed, glancing over at the five kids playing. “She’s always in rare form. What’s different about today?”

“She told me Is walked too slowly. Also, she’s quieter than normal.” Race shrugged. “She wants to talk to mes and Jack about somethin’ after dinner.”

“She gets her sassiness from her father. Did she give any indication what it’s about?” Kat asked, biting her lip.

“That’s a lie, Katherine Kelly and you know it.” Spot gave her a look as the front door opened. Jack came in as the kids all ran to him to tell him about their days. The house was once again in chaos for a few minutes while they all greeted him.

Race shook his head. “No but after shes told me that, she seemed to cheer up a bit. Is sure it’s nothing.”

The three watched Jack wrangle the five kids. Spot shook his head watching him wind them all up. In the middle of the kids screaming and yelling, Lucas woke up unhappy. Kat quickly grabbed him before he started screaming. “Oh did your cousins and siblings wake you up, sweet boy?”

Luke buried his head in his mom’s shoulder as he tried to wake up. Lucas was the chillest baby the Kelly’s had had and he would much rather watch his siblings than get in the middle of their playing.

Jack managed to direct the kids back to playing before stepping into the kitchen, moving to kiss Katherine hello.

Looking at his youngest son, he ran a hand through his hair before pressing a kiss to his forehead. “I’m sorry sweet boy for getting your cousins and siblings all riled up.”

Kat gave him a look. “Will there ever be a day that you don’t do that?”

“Only when theys moved out, married and have children of their own.” Jack grinned, taking Luke from Kat’s arms and snuggling with him. “What were you talking about when I walked in?”

Spot chuckled. “The sassiness of your daughter, Katherine trying to pass that off to your genes and Sammi being quiet on the way home from school.”

“She’s usually bubbly and talkative; we can’t get her to stop talking until she’s asleep. That sassiness is all yous, Kat.” Jack glanced over his shoulder at the kids playing. “Why was she quiet?”

Race nodded over to the oldest. “Shes wants to talks to yous and Is tonight about something.”

Jack’s eyes furrowed with worry, Race watching him. “Don’t worry about it . . . after she told me that, she was back to her normal self. Is don’t think its anything bad.”

Jack nodded as Spot asked about his work at The World. They chatted while Spot finished making dinner before throwing the pie together. Dinner was a chaotic mess, trying to get a 8, 6, 4, 3, 2, and 1.5 year old to all sit down and eat, peacefully. The adults all had an adult beverage with the lasagna and the chatter around the table was loud and boisterous.

Race and Jack had volunteered to clean up from dinner while Spot and Kat got the kids cleaned up. Soon everything was put away and the couples were on the two couches, each with a drink when Jack cleared his throat. “Hey Sammi?”

“Yea daddy?” She glanced up from working on her homework, a math sheet it looked like.

Jack motioned his daughter to join him on the couch. “Uncle Race mentioned that yous wanted to talk to him and me about something.”

Taking a deep breath, she sighed, dramatically, throwing herself against the couch. “Ugh . . . do we gotta?”

“Well yous looked pretty worried when Is picked you up from school.” Race said, giving his niece a look. “Wes said wes talk about it after dinner.”

She sighed again, throwing her long brunette hair over her shoulder. “Fine . . .”

She looked at the four adults in the room before playing with her hands. “MissPinkyMentionedYousinClassToday.”

Race looked at Jack with wide eyes, while Jack gave him the same look. “How about you try that again, short stack?”

“Miss Pinky mentioned yous and Uncle Race in class today. She used your real names, Jack Kelly and Antonio Higgins. But I knew right away who she was talking about.” Sammi looked at both of them.

Race looked between his husband and brother and sister before swallowing the knot in his throat. “So yous talkin’ about the newsboy strike in school?”

“Yeah. Its was 10 years ago.” Sammi shrugged. “Buts Miss Pinky wants us to write an essay about the strike.”

Kat and Jack looked at one another. “About the strike?”

“It’s a research paper.” Sammi shrugged. “Only gots to be three pages. But . . .”

Jack hugged his daughter closer. “Yous want to talk to Uncle Race and me abouts it, right?”

“Yeah. But Is didn’t know how to.” She glanced at her daddy and uncle.

Kat grinned, standing up and going into her office, returning with an old newspaper. “I think this might help.”

Sammi took the paper from her mom’s hand, eyes widening when she realized what was on the page. She squinted, looking at the faces in the photo, eyes going wide when she recognized many of the faces - her dad, Uncles Race, Albert, Romeo, Finch, Specs, Crutchie, and Elmer all staring back at her. “Yous all were in the strike?”

“Yes.” Jack said, looking over her shoulder at the photo. It seemed just yesterday that Kat took the photo. “Yous mom and I met during the strike.” Jack pointed to the name on the byline. “Thats your mom.”

Sammi’s eyes went wide, looking up at Katherine. “Yous wrote this?”

“Yes, I did. I made your dad and uncles front page news.” Kat giggled. “Can’t believe it’s been ten years.”

Sammi’s eyes darted back to the article, looking between the words and photo on the page. “Can yous tell me about the strike?”

Jack looked at Race with a grin. “I think I can do one better.”

Two Nights Later

Kat, Jack, and Sammi walked into Jacobi’s, enjoying the cozy feeling of coming home. They looked towards the back, the usual tables filled with their friends.They had gotten a babysitter for the young kids so they wouldn’t have to worry about them during this discussion. Albert, Elmer, Race, Spot, Specs, Romeo, Davey, Les, Finch and Crutchie were all loudly talking to one another. Race grinned seeing Sammi nervously playing with her hands and gave the soon to be 9 year a big grin.

The group enthusiastically greeted the three as they sat at the table. The boys talked with Kat and Jack about what had been going on while Sammi walked over to stand between Race and Spot. “Hi Sammi. Yous a bit nervous?”

“Hi Uncle Spot.” She snuggled into his embrace as she looked between her two favorites. “Yea but Is don’t know why.”

Race ran a hand through her hair, kissing her forehead. “Yous nervous because yous gonna be asking questions you never have asked before. But yous know these guys. Theys not scary at all.”

The table had quietened down, all looking at between Jack and Race. “Yous said this was important. What’s with the meeting, Jackie?”

Jack looked at Sammi with a grin before glancing in Albert’s direction. “Sammi has a school assignment that we thought yous could help her with.”

The eight men turned their attention to Sammi, who was sitting in Race’s lap with a nervous look on her face. She looked at each of the guys she had known growing up.

“What’s up Sammi?” Romeo looked at the young girl, who twirled her pencil, looking between her parents and Spot.

Sighing, she saw her mom nod at her before grinning. “Wes talking about the newsboy strike in school. Miss Pinky mentioned dad and Uncle Race but momma said yous were all there.”

Jack grinned watching all of their eyes widened at his daughter’s words. “Yous want to interview us?”

Sammi tilted her head at Elmer’s question before shaking it. “No, just tells me what happened.”

Jack knew the boys didn’t know where to begin, so he grinned at his daughter. “Before I met your mom, Is was living on the streets, workin’ as a newsboy. Wes get the papes every morning and tell people the headlines hopin’ they would buy a pape from us.”

“Yous dad was the best newsboy, Sammi.” Albert cut in with a grin. “He taught us all how to hawk the headlines.”

Jack pushed his shoulder with a grin. “Is did what I had to. Anyways, one day yous grandfather raised the price of the papes from 50 cents for 100 to 60 cents for 100.”

“Grandpa?” Sammi’s eyes went wide looking between her parents. Kat and Jack both chuckled, remembering how awful her father was.

Jack nodded. “Yes, your grandfather was our boss, as he ran The World Newspaper and most of the city. Most of the boys already had a hard time making ends meet so this wasn’t a welcomed surprise.”

“So your dad tells the circulation desk that hes not gonna pay that amount.” Crutchie pipes up. “And says that no one else will either.”

Jack chuckled, looking over at Davey. “So Davey asks if wes gonna strike and it goes from there.”

“Was yous scare?” Sammi asked, jotting down a few notes on her piece of paper.

All of the guys nodded their heads, Jack smiling sadly at his daughter. “Of course, wes was Sammi. Sellin’ papes was our job so wes didn’t know if wes would have a job once this was over. But this was somethin’ we had to do.”

“So what happened?” Sammi looked around the table.

“Your dad and Davey had a talk with your grandfather who promptly threw them out.” Les grinned, shaking his head at the weirdness of talking about Kat’s dad with his granddaughter. “So then we came here and devised a plan. Davey told us wes had to go to the different boroughs to let all the other newsboys know.”

They all chuckled at the next part. Jack glanced at his brother-in-law with a grin, knowing Sammi wouldn’t like the next part. “Mes and Davey went to see Spot Conlon in Brooklyn but he told us no.”

“Uncle Spot?” Sammi looked at her uncle with wide eyes. “Yous told them no?”

Spot nodded, slowly. “I did at the time, Sammi. Is didn’t think your dad or Uncle Race was serious about taking on The World and your grandfather. Is told them they would have to prove theys wouldn’t run at the first sign of trouble.”

Sammi sat back, leaning against Race’s chest, taking it all in. Race leaned down and whispered in her ear. “Yous okay?”

“Its a lot.” She whispered back, glancing up at everyone watching her and Race’s interaction. “Hows old were you?”

Race thought back on his time as a Newsie. “Is was 16, yous dad 17, and Uncle Spot was 17; the rest of these boys were younger. Wes were kids, honestly.”

“What happened next?”

Jack looked at Kat with a grin. “Your mom came and wrote the article that ended up in the paper. Is told her to show up at the circulation gate with a photographer and she’d get the story. The next morning comes and no one shows, no other borough shows up. It’s only the Manhattan newsies going against the circulation desk and it doesn’t go so well.”

“The cops and bulls show up, Crutchie gets thrown in jail, and everyone is devastated that things could go so wrong.” Albert spoke up, smiling sadly at Sammi. “Until your mom shows up with the newspaper article.”

Sammi looked at Kat with a grin. “So what happened then?”

“There’s some sense of excitement with the newsboys and we continue the fight, the other boroughs eventually showing up, including Brooklyn.” Davey said, looking between Race and Jack, not knowing how much they wanted Sammi to know.

Jack bit his lip, looking at his daughter, knowing she needed to know everything. “This isn’t easy to tell ya, Sammi but I ran. I left the boys because Is was so worried that what wes were doing was going to turn out badly. Davey and Uncle Race led the strike while I was gone.”

“Why yous run?” Sammi asked, leaning over and putting her hand on top of Jack’s.

“Your mom and Is met with your grandfather.” Jack smiled. “Is didn’t realize Katherine Plumber was actually Katherine Pulitizer, your grandfather’s daughter. Mom went by her byline name instead of her real name the entire time she was working with us to get our story out. Your grandfather threatened to throw all of the newsboys into jail and Is couldn’t do that to them. So I ran, hid out at Miss Medda’s theater and painted my frustrations away.”

“Until, I went and saw him and convinced him that we could do something, if he quit being an idiot.” Kat grinned at her daughter. “I wrote another article and we brainstormed on how to get it printed and distributed. The other newsboys now involved and helped us shut down the city showing New York how much they relied on child labor.”

Race grinned, hugging Sammi. “Essentially that paper that was printed shut down the city of New York that your grandfather had no choice but to give into our demands, roll the raise back by half, and buy back any paper we couldn’t sell.”

Sammi sat there taking everything in. “But yous and grandpa are good now.”

“Yes, but that took several years and you coming along to mend that.” Jack grinned. “It wasn’t easy but we had to do what we had to do. I had to ensure yous and your siblings had a better life than I had when Is was your age.”

She nodded, understanding what her dad was saying. She looked around the table, her eyes stopping on Crutchie. “Yous said Uncle Crutchie was in jail . . . why?”

“The bulls didn’t like that I had a bummed leg so they arrested me.” Crutchie shrugged. “I was in jail for a few days before getting out.”

Sammi nodded, sighing, never knowing her dad and uncles had lived this. “Why didn’t you tell us this?”

Kat, Jack, Race, and Spot all shrugged. Spot smiled at his niece. “Yous almost 9, Sammi. Wes knew we had to tell yous kids some time but didn’t think now would be the time to do it. We’ll tell your cousins and siblings when theys older.”

“Do you have any other questions?” Kat asked, looking at her daughter for any signs of being overwhelmed or scared.

Sammi nodded. “Two. Can I ask grandpa about this? And did things get better after the strike?”

The table laughed at her first question. “We’ll go see grandpa tomorrow and you can ask him.” Kat grinned at her daughter, knowing full well her father would hate the questions from his granddaughter.

“As for the second question, yes, things got better.” Specs looked around the table at his friends. “Most of us stayed and sold papers until we turned 18 then we looked for other jobs. Your dad helped a lot of us get other jobs.”

Sammi looked between her dad and Uncles. “You said yous were 17, dad. What happened when yous turned 18?”

“Uncle Race was put in charge of the lodging house and the Newsies. I married your mom and worked for your grandfather at The World.” Sammi smirked hearing her dad talk. “But Is still checked in on the Newsies and made sure things were good for thems.”

“What did you learn from the strike?” She asked, as everyone looked at one another. Silence fell amongst the table, each reflecting on the past.

“It taught me that if friends stick together, you can do almost anything.” Albert grinned.

Romeo shrugged. “Anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.”

“Sometimes you need a little help from bigger and stronger friends, and that’s okay.” Race grinned, looking at Spot who smirked. “Also never be afraid to ask for help.”

“Dad? Mom?” Sammi asked, looking between the two of them.

Jack looked at Katherine with a grin. “Being boss doesn’t mean you have to have all the answers. Just the brains to recognize the right one when you hear it - someone once told me that during the strike and it’s just stuck.”

Race threw his head back and laughed at that one. Katherine had told them the story of how she knocked Jack on his ass. Sammi raised an eyebrow at her mother before looking at her uncle. “Mom?”

“Don’t be afraid to stretch the truth a bit . . . you never know what good can come from it.” She grinned, looking around the table smirking at the guys surrounding her.

She smiled, looking around the table. “Thank you for telling me this.”

“Thank you for asking, Sammi.” Crutchie grinned at his niece. “Yous got enough for your paper?”

She nodded, looking at her scribbles on her paper. “Is think so. But Is have an idea.”

“Oh she’s Katherine Kelly’s daughter for sure.” Finch chuckled, watching the little girl grin at both of her parents.

“Is have to check with Miss Pinky first buts maybe yous can help me with somethin’.” Sammi grinned, looking around the table at her uncles.

“Anything for you Sammi.” Race said, grinning at his niece, knowing he would never be able to say no to her.

Next Day, After School

“This is grandpa’s office?” Sammi asked, standing on the sidewalk, glancing up at the tall building.

Kat chuckled, knowing Sammi had never been inside. “It is, Sammi. Shall we go see grandpa?”

They made their way inside, going over to the elevators before pushing the button to the top floor. Once they arrived, Katherine grinned at Hannah, her father’s secretary. “Hi Hannah. Is he available for a visit?”

“Absolutely. Is this Samantha?” Hannah asked, hearing Pulitizer talk about his oldest granddaughter many times.

Kat nodded. “It is. Sammi, this is Hannah, grandpa’s secretary. Hannah this is mine and Jack’s daughter, Samantha.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Hannah grinned. “You can go on in.”

Kat nodded at Hannah before taking Sammi’s hand and leading her to the solid oak door, knocking gently before pushing it open.

Joseph looked up, a smile stretching across his face at his daughter and granddaughter. “Katherine, Samantha. This is a pleasant surprise. What brings you here?”

Joseph pushed himself away from the desk before standing, making his way to both of them, pulling them in for hugs and kisses on their cheeks. “Samantha needs to ask you a couple of questions for a project she’s doing for school.”

He motioned for the two of them to sit on leather chairs before sitting down across from them. “Of course. Samantha, what’s your project on?”

“The Newsboys Strike.” Sammi kicked her feet back and forth, looking at her grandpa for any sign of anger or being upset.

Joseph raised an eyebrow at his daughter. “I’m guessing she talked with you, Jack, Spot, and Race already?”

“Along with all the other Newsies.” Kat nodded. “She wants your perspective on things.”

Joseph shook his head grinning. “She takes after her mother.”

“Naturally.” Katherine grinned, hugging Sammi closer to her side. “Now what were your questions for grandpa, Sammi?”

Sammi flipped open her notebook she brought with her before grinning at her grandpa. “Why did you raise the pape prices?”

Joseph sat back and looked between his daughter and granddaughter, both with their eyebrow raised, waiting for his answer. “The World was in trouble, the circulation was down and it was hurting business. It was easy to raise the price so the Newsboys would have to sell more papers to make a bigger profit for the paper.”

“Didn’t you think about the little guys?” Sammi asked, tilting her head.

Joseph chuckled. “Not when I raised the prices. It wasn’t until your dad busted in my office, after the entire city had been shut down that that was brought to my attention.”

“Why didn’t you hire mom as a reporter?” Sammi had poured over the newspaper Kat had given her, realizing very quickly it was for The New York Sun, not The World.

His eyes widened at Samantha’s question but quickly realized he shouldn’t expect anything else. “She didn’t want me to give her a job. She wanted to earn it all on her own. So I dropped some subtle hints to some colleagues at The Sun she was applying and they hired her on as a reporter. I would have loved having her as part of The World but she didn’t want it.”

Sammi looked at her mom, who merely grinned and shrugged her shoulders. “Any other questions, Samantha?”

“Why did you write opinion columns against the Newsboys?” She asked, Katherine and her father’s eyes both going wide. “Miss Pinky said you weren’t very nice when the boys were striking.”

Kat looked at her father with a grin. “Does she remind you of someone?”

“Yes, you.” Joseph smiled. “I wanted to discredit the boys and show they weren’t anything to worry about. Obviously it didn’t work and your father and mother found a way around my attempts to stop them.”

“Anything else?” Kat asked, knowing her daughter had one more question for her father.

Sammi jumped off the couch before going to stand beside her grandfather. “What did you learn from the strike?”

Kat chuckled at the question. She had asked the same question the other night. “I learned that I should listen to anyone who is willing to raise a fuss, no matter what they do for a living or how small they are. People’s thoughts and ideas are one of the most powerful things in the world.”

She nodded, looking between her mother and grandpa, giving her grandpa a hug. “Thank you for your time, grandpa and thank you for answering my questions.”

And with that, Kat and Sammi took their leave, heading out of The World and heading home, Sammi excited to tell her father and uncles about her conversation with her grandpa.

The Following Monday

“Children, children, please quiet down.” Miss Pinky, Sammi’s teacher, called to the children as they all looked at the visitors in their classroom. Sammi grinned, folding her hands on her desk and looking towards the front of the room. “I know we have visitors but that doesn’t mean you can cause a ruckus.”

Waiting until the children were settled, Miss Pinky gave Sammi a smile. “Samantha, would you like to present your findings?”

Standing from her desk, she made her way to the front of the room with a smile. Her eyes narrowed in on the six people who stood in the back of the room and grinned at them. “My father is Jack Kelly, one of the organizers of the 1899 Newsboy Strike that stopped the city in its place. As my mother wrote in the paper, it was David vs Goliath, a battle of wills. The Newsboys were up against The World and my grandfather, Joseph Pulitizer.”

“Hundreds of children across the city of New York came together to shut down the city to demand that the price of papers go back to what it was and the newspaper giant buy back the papers the newsboys didn’t sell that day.” Sammi stopped. “It was a fight they had to win, because if they didn’t, their worlds would shift and the majority of them would be out on the streets, worse off than they already were.”

Sammi looked around the room at her fellow classmates. “In the end, they won . . . the Newsboys won their battle, Pulitzer agreeing to roll back the price of papers to half of the raise and buy back any papers they didn’t sell.”

“Well done, Samantha.” Miss Pinky said, standing from her desk. “Would you like to introduce the class to your visitors?”

Sammi walked to the back of the room. “This is Jack and Katherine Kelly, my parents. My mom wrote an article on the strike and my dad was one of the leaders of the strike. This is my Uncle Race and Uncle Spot. Uncle Race was my dad’s second in command at the Newsboy Lodging House and Uncle Spot ran the Brooklyn Newsies.” She grinned at the four of them. “This is my Uncle Albert, he was Uncle Race’s second in command and part of the strike as well. And this is . . .”

Sammi took a deep breath as she went to the last person’s side. “This is my grandpa, Joseph Pultizer, the one my dad and uncles striked against.”

Her classmates’ eyes went wide as Sammi finished. “So that’s my history . . . I’m proud of my parents and uncles and all they accomplished ten years ago. Any questions?”

Almost every hand went up at Sammi’s question, which made the adults chuckle. Sammi grinned at her best friend, Bella, pointing to her. “What is the one thing from the strike you’re most proud of?”

Sammi, as well as every kid in that classroom, looked at the six adults. They all motioned to Jack to start. “I would say that I’m proud that we came together and won at the end of the day.”

“I’m proud of my friends standing their ground and making a difference.” Katherine said looking at Spot and Race, who shrugged.

“That we didn’t back down, despite how scared we were at potentially losing our jobs.” Race said as Spot nodded.

Albert grinned, looking between his friends and Sammi. “I would say that I’m most proud of our leaders and guiding us to victory.”

Sammi saw her dad duck his head in embarrassment but grinned, looking at her teacher. “Thank you for allowing them to come in while I presented, Miss Pinky.”

The bell rang as all the kids stood up and grabbed their book bags, relieved the school day was over. Miss Pinky walked over to Sammi’s parents and uncles to thank them for coming. Despite how many times she had read about the Newsboys Strike, Miss Pinky couldn’t believe she was talking to the actual people who formed and were involved with the Strike.

Sammi put her books away before putting her book bag on and walking over to her parents. “Great presentation, Sammi. Well done. I’ll see you tomorrow?”

She said goodbyes to her teacher before walking out of the building with her parents, uncles, and grandpa.

“Proud of you Samantha Anne.” Jack pulled her into a hug with a kiss on her forehead as she giggled, Kat, Race, and Spot soon followed. Albert and her grandpa both said their goodbyes and thanks before they both took their leaves.

The five remaining stood outside the school, waiting for Ellie to make her appearance. She soon was flying down the stairs and ran right into Jack’s arms who picked her up and swung her around. Race and Spot both grinned at their daughter’s giggles.

“Apparently wes chop liver.” Race nudged Spot who nodded and pouted at their daughter.

“Da, Papa!” She giggled, running over to both of them for a hug. “Didn’t see ya there.”

Ellie and Sammi ran ahead as the four adults meandered behind them. Kat smiled watching the three men grapple with their thoughts. “Sammi is somethin’ else, huh?”

“Her presentation was great and she spoke with confidence.” Spot grinned at her proud parents.

Race looked at Kat with a big grin. “Shes her momma through and through. That was a younger Katherine Kelly in that classroom this afternoon, I have no doubt.”

“That she is.” Kat agreed. “But you should’ve seen her in my father’s office asking those questions to him. She was a spitfire and held his gaze while she waited for his answers. I wouldn’t be surprised if she goes into journalism when she’s older.”

Jack shook his head, thinking back on Katherine’s career. “Is don’t know if the world will be ready for Samantha Kelly to be a journalist. She’ll be more ruthless than you are, dear.”

“And the world will be better off for it, if that’s the path she decides to go on.” Kat grinned. “She’ll be brilliant at whatever she decides to do.”

Ellie and Sammi were waiting on the street corner for the adults to catch up to them giggling about something. “Ellie and I were thinkin’ we should get ice cream!”

Kat raised her eyebrow at Sammi’s proclamation. “Oh really, what’s the occasion?”

“Well, I had a good presentation at school and Ellie said she did really well on her spelling test.” Sammi held her mom’s gaze, a wobbly lip tucked away in her back pocket in case she needed to bring out the big guns.

Kat looked at the three men behind her. “What do you say, dad, da, and papa? Should we get the girls ice cream?”

“Please!!!!” Ellie and Sammi cried, not hesitating to show their pouty lips to try to sway their fathers.

“Lead the way.” Jack motioned the girl into the ice cream parlor with a flourish.

Celebrations were held that afternoon, between many scoops of ice cream and a lot of laughter. Race and Spot grinned and relaxed, proud of the life they had created and the children they had in their lives. They wished their 16/17 year old selves could know how sweet their life would turn out.

#The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race #Katherine Kelly #Jack Kelly #Newsies #Newsies Fan Fiction #Writing #Spot Conlon #Racetrack Higgins #Samantha Kelly #Dancerlittle006

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

So I did a thing .....

#dancerlittle006 #newsies #fan fiction #writing #racetrack higgins #spot conlon #wedding invite #the many adventures of sammi & race

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

Flying Like Peter Pan

Race/Jack

HELP!!!!

I’m in Emergency Room but I don’t really know why

You don’t remember ANYTHING from the last 6 hours?!?!?

Uhhhhh …….

No???

You don’t remember the streaking or the full bottle of tequila?

It’s all really fuzzy …..

WHAT DID I DO????

😂😂😂😂😂

You were an idiot

Jack, you gotta help me.

Spot’s in the corner looking really pissed and not talking to me.

I have a bright pink cast on my arm and a gross looking bump on my head

AND I CANNOT REMEMBER ANYTHING!!!!!!!

I’M FREAKING OUT!!!

On a scale of 1-20, how pissed is Spot?

I’d say 200 …… like he’s ready to chain me to this bed and never let me leave

That sounds about right!

You climbed a tree and thought you were Peter Pan and said you could fly

You even sang the song from the movie before you took flight - you actually can sing when you’re drunk 😂

You landed with a splat and a cry of pain

Damn …. did anyone get it on video?

ANTHONY!!

You could’ve died. You were an idiot and drunk off your ass

I’m sorry, Jack

I just apologized to Spot and he told me that you should’ve let me stay in the dark of what happened

🤷🏻🤷🏻🤷🏻🤷🏻 You're not going to live this down for a LONG time.

I have a feeling you’ll be in Spot’s shit list for a while

Just know that Katherine is just as pissed as Spot!!

She wanted to come to the hospital but I had to restrain her - you’re on her shit list too.

😫😫😫😫 Oh shit

Who are you more scared of?

I dunno ….. both of them

Who’s more pissed?

If Spot is like 200, then Kat’s probably 550

Just kill me now, Jack.

They’re gonna do it anyway and I’d rather see your smiling face before you off me than either of theirs.

You gonna do something stupid, you gotta face the punishment like a man

Ugh you suck. You’re supposed to be my brother yet, you throw me to the wolves

Your husband and my wife are wolves?

Don’t tell them I called them that

Keep diggin’ that grave Racetrack.

I won’t need to kill you …. you’ll do it yourself.

Will you protect me?

You’re my brother and I love you but nope ….

But…..

Nope, nope, nopoetity, nope

You suck. You’re being removed from my will

Oh how will I ever survive???

I hate you, Jack Kelly

I love you Racetrack Higgins-Conlon

Yet you keep texting me 😂😂😂

Because you’re the only one who will tell me what an idiot I am and clue me in on what I did

Go talk to Spot ….

If you don’t hear from me in an hour, come rescue me!!!

Ok. But Spot ain’t gonna kill you. He loves you too much and is more worried than anything

Thanks Jack!

You’re welcome. Don’t be an idiot - you’re too smart.

{30 Minutes Later}

So does anyone have footage from my flying experience?

Glad you see you’re still alive

Footage, anyone got it?

Why is it so important to you to see this? It was terrifying to witness live

I want to see me in all my Peter Pan glory

Ugh ..... you’re weird.

But check with Albert - not sure if he was filming or just taking photos

Thanks, Jack. You’ve been restored to being in my will.

Yay!!! 🎉🎉

Knew you were disappointed when I initially took you out of it

Shut up Race.

I’m being discharged and Spot is making me lay in bed for the rest of the day

Good, maybe Kat and I’ll stop over

Could you stop over tomorrow? I’ve had my butt beaten enough for one day!!

Wouldn’t you rather get it done and over with rather than drag it out?

🧐🧐

You’ve got a point ..... you can come over later

Listen to Spot and get some sleep

Aye aye captain!

@wide-eyed--wonderer

#newsies #dancerlittle006 #writing #fan fiction #racetrack higgins #spot conlon #jack kelly #writing prompt #text prompt #newsies fan fiction

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

With Fancy Ties and a Top Hat On

First things first, I don’t own anything related to Disney or Newsies. Second of all, this is a continuation of my “The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race” series. You may want to read the others in the series but it’s not necessary! There are two poems that are mentioned in this part and I do not own either one of them - see end notes for proper credit.

Tuesday, October 17, 1905

The night before the wedding, Spot and Race were commandeered by their respected boroughs for one last night of fun before the big day. Jack and Albert had stolen Race away from Spot, dragging him from a long drawn out goodbye. The two men gave Race a proper sendoff into marriage, with a party at Jacobi’s filled with all the Manhattan Newsies before collapsing on the roof of the Lodging House for one final send off.

Race had been loud and excited the entire night but on the roof of the Lodging House, he was quiet and withdrawn. Jack and Albert traded glances before Jack nudged Race. “Yous okay?”

“Justs thinkin’.” Race resting his head on his drawn up legs, his eyes looking over on the city he loved. “What ifs I ain’t too good at marriage?”

Albert and Jack grinned at each other, knowing exactly the doubts their brother had, as they had each experienced the same, Albert much more recently than Jack. Jack cleared his throat before speaking. “Yous be fine. It’s Spot yous marryin’. The best part is that yous never been married to anyones and neither had Spot. Yous discover it togetha.”

Race shook his head, knowing his brother was right. “What’s botherin’ you Race?”

“Is excited to be marryin’ Spot but there’s just an unsettledness there, ya know?” Race looked between his best friend and brother before his gaze drifted to the city around them.

Albert put his hand on his shoulder. “Yous worried that Spot ain’t gonna show? Becauses that's the last thing yous should be worryin’ about - the ‘Hattan boys’ll make sure hes shows.”

“Nah, he’ll show.” Race grinned. “Is don’t know how to explain it.”

Jack smiled, reaching over to ruffle Race’s head. “Let me give yous some advice. Don’t go to bed angry, always tell him he looks pretty, say “I love you” at least once a day, pull yous weight equally - in the house, in the relationship, in life - and surprise him every now and then.”

Race nodded, taking every word to heart. He raised an eyebrow in Albert’s direction. “Always offer to pick something up when yous out and about. Argue - it’s healthy for a relationship and communicate - don’t let them fester, get them out in the open.”

“Have yous met Spot? Hes the king of arguin’.” Race chuckled.

“And yous the king of arguin’ right back.” Albert bit back.

A calm quiet rest over the three, all lost in their own thoughts. All three had been very involved with the wedding details and knew the entire rundown by heart. Katherine had made them all agendas with every single detail on it on where they needed to be and what needed to be brought with. Race chuckled, thankful to have Kat by his side as he and Spot planned this.

“How many peoples comin’ tomorrow?” Jack asked, nudging Race’s shoulder.

Shruggin’, Race bit his lip. “I thinks we mailed out 100 invites but we’ll see whos shows up.”

“Yous nervous?” Albert reached over putting his hand on Race’s shoulder before gentle squeezing. “It’s completely okay to say yes.”

Race smiled. “Not nervous to marry Spot. But to stand in front of those people . . .”

“Yous just have to stand there and looks pretty. Yous don’t even have to look into the crowd, just stare lovin’ly into Spot’s deep brown eyes.” Jack chuckled. “And Albert and Is will be right beside you. But nothin’ gonna happen. Yous and Spot are gonna get married and live happily ever afta.”

Race grinned. “Yous been readin’ too many of Sammi’s fairy tales, Jackie Boy.”

“It’s true. Yous and Spot will run off into the sunset and live happily ever afta. Mark my words.” Jack gave him a pointed look. “Yous two will build a great marriage, just as yous built a great home and relationship to begin with.”

As he woke up that morning, Race grinned knowing a big day lay ahead. He took a few minutes to himself, to mentally prepare for the day before walking out of the guest room. He heard a gentle hum of activity, including a little girl singing off key to a song. Peeking into the living room, a grin slid across his face as he saw Jack holding Tommy, Kat trying to wrangle Sammi’s curls, and Albert enjoying a cup of coffee.

“Mornin’ Race. How are you feeling?” Kat looked away from Sammi’s curls for a moment when she noticed him standing in the doorway of the living room.

Shruggin’, he hid his yawn before collapsing into the chair in the corner, looking around the room. “Good. Ready for 4:00.”

“Well considering that’s 8 hours away, you’ve got some things that need to be completed before that.” Kat gave him a look before sending Sammi over in his direction.

Sammi crawled up in his lap, her finger at her lip before snuggling deeper into his embrace. “It’s yous ‘eddin’ day, Uncle Race.”

“It is Sammi. Yous excited?” He hugged her a bit tighter.

She nodded her head as she looked around the room at her parents and other uncle. “Momma says theres cake.”

“There will be cake. Will yous help me eat it Sammi?” He chuckled at the four year old’s excitement for the sweet.

“Yeah.” She went quiet, looking at her uncle. “Momma says theres dancin’ and Is has a ‘retty dress.”

Race nodded. “Yous do have a pretty dress; I bet yous’ll be the best dressed girl there.”

“Not uh huh.” She popped up and looked at him. “Momma will be.”

Looking over at Kat, Race grinned. “Is think yous and your momma will both be the prettiest girls in the room.”

Bouncing Sammi on his leg, her sweet giggles filled the room. Looking at her friend, Katherine smiled. “Hey Race, how about you take a walk around the neighborhood? Spend a little bit of time by yourself before the madness starts.”

He smiled at Kat, loving how she knew him so well. Taking his leave from the house, Race promised Kat he would be back in 20 minutes. Putting the familiar cigar in his mouth, he made his way down the sidewalk. The street was busy with Newsies hawkin’ headlines and the street vendors were busy setting up for the day. His feet led him, no real destination in mind.

Coming up to a stall, he bought a sour green apple before continuing on his journey. Biting into the juicy apple, his mind was packed with details of the day and nothing all at once. Pausing to stand on the corner, he heard a Newsies hawkin’ a completely made up headline “Dozens injured as fairy crashes in the harbor.”

Race grinned, remembering all the ridiculous headlines he and his friends would make up just for a penny. Feeling in his pocket for a dime, he approached the Newsies. “Buy a pape, mister?”

Holding out the dime, Race grinned. “Good headlines today?”

“Dozens injured as a fairy crashes in the harbor.” The kid grinned, handing over a pape to Race.

Race hummed, opening up the paper before seeing the story on page 3. “Only two people were injured, kid.”

“Gotta embellishin’’ a bit mister; ya know to sell papes? Thanks for the dime.” The kid grinned. Race folded the paper back up, putting it under his arm before nodding. “I know that all too well. Have a great day.”

Race had a grin on his face as his feet led him back to the Kelly House. Walking up the front steps, he let himself in the front door, causing the conversation to die down in the room. “Where did you go?”

“Corner for an apple and pape.” Race grinned at Jack. “Kid on the corner is quite the embellisher.”

Kat raised her eyebrow at him. “As I recall, you were quite the embellisher as well Higgins.”

“And look at me now.” He grinned, sitting on the couch opening the paper to read the headlines.

Jack sat next to him, raising an eyebrow. “Why the pape?”

“Sentimentally sake. Remind myself where Is was and wheres Is now.” Race shrugged, giving Jack a smile. “Besides Is wanted somethin’ from the wedding day.”

“Yous a sap, Racetrack Higgins. Sap.” Albert quipped from the opposite couch.

Kat smiled at the three. “Leave him be. He’s allowed to be a sap on his wedding day. Need I remind you two of your own wedding days?” Kat gave them both a look. “As I recall, one of you was sobbing in the corner just before you walked down the aisle and the other was sentimental for many days before the wedding.”

“Yous don’t gotta remind me.” Albert put his hands up in surrender before shooting Kat a mean glare.

“Love you too Albie.” Kat kissed the top of his head before depositing Tommy in Race’s lap. “I’m going to start to get ready. Jack, my mother will be here at 9 to pick up Tommy. Will you make sure everything is in his bag?”

Race grinned at his nephew who had just started recognizing his own voice and loved to vocalize it. “Hey Tommy boy. Yous get to go to yous grandparents tonight while mom and dad are at the weddin’.”

Tommy just babbled as Race nodded his head. Thankfully, Sammi had warmed up to her brother. Sammi is the only one who Tommy will laugh for and as soon as she’s up in the morning, she’s always looking for him. She’s a great helper with giving him his bottle or a toy.

Once Tommy was handed off to Kate, Jack clapped his hands and suggested they get some breakfast before starting to get ready. The three men and Sammi ventured down to the local diner, hungry and excited for the day ahead.

2:00pm

Arriving at the Pier A Harbor House in Battery Park, Race hopped out of the carriage before straightening his black tuxedo. He had a black jacket with tails on top of a grey vest over a crisp white shirt, a grey and white stripe tie around his neck. He took a quick look at himself - everything was rented for the wedding, including the black top hat that Jack had just handed to him. Jack and Albert had stepped out of the carriage, both dressed in tailed tuxedos and matching top hats.

“Wow do you three clean up!” Kat exclaimed watching them walk up the walkway towards the venue. Her hair was tied up in an elegant updo while pulling off an elegant emerald green wrap dress. Sammi was at her side in a white and navy blue flower girl dress, her hair up as well.

Meeting them halfway, Sammi ran to Race’s side, the older bending over to pick her up. “Wows Sammi, yous so pretty.”

“Tank yous Uncle Race. Yous gettin’ ‘arried!” She placed a kiss on his check and grinned brightly at her uncle before pushing away from him. “Mys dress ‘wirls.”

She turned around, letting the edges of her dress twirl around her, her giggles echoing off the buildings. “Sees, Uncle Race?”

“Very pretty Sammi girl.” Bending over, he placed a kiss on her cheek before looking over at Kat. “Where do wes need to go?”

Kat looked over from having her own private moment with her husband with a grin. “You’re in the Willow Room. There’s some food in there for you guys and you can relax before the next part.”

The three headed inside, feeling the cool of the air circulating within the building. Finding the Willow Room, the three settled in, Race flexing his fingers and toes tapping while waiting for 4pm to roll around.

“Yous got your vows?” Jack asked, looking over the back of the couch. “You did write them out, didn’t yous?”

Race smirked, tapping his head. “Its all in here. I didn’t writes them out.”

Albert snorted loudly. “Yous gonna remember?”

“Someone told mes to just speak from the heart and thats all Is gonna do.” Race shrugged, not really understanding what the big deal was.

Jack smirked. “Yous be fine. Just make sure you don’t cuss in yous vows.”

“Yous should be tellin’ Spot that, not me.” Race’s eyes went wide. “But that’ll be a memory wes have forever if hes did that.”

Chuckling, Albert shook his head. “Well yous always go your own way so cussin’ in vows shouldn’t be anys surprises to anyone.”

A knock at the door caused the three to look over. Standing in the doorway, Crutchie, Specs, Elmer, Finch and Romeo were all standing there looking dressed to the nines with grins on their faces. Even though they were all at Jacobi’s the night before, there was a loud excitement as the eight men greeted one another. Settling in various places around the room, a calm quiet enveloped the room. “So yous ready?”

Race grinned at Elmer’s question. “Just antsy . . . wants to just get the show on the road.”

“Why a Tuesday and why 4pm?” Finch asked, raising an eyebrow at Race. He was used to this question by now, almost all of the Newsies had asked at one moment or another.

The groom looked around the room at all of his friends. “Tomorrows a year since Spot proposed . . . wes didn’t wanna go a year so wes gettin’ married today. Four is when the venue would be ready.”

Jack started a conversation regarding the New York Giants baseball team which pulled all of the Newsies into the discussion. Every Newsies was very invested in the game, often standing outside of the stadium on game days trying to hear the familiar crack of the bat as it sent the ball flyin’ into the outfield.

Race caught a glance at the watch on his wrist, a present from Spot. 2:50pm. He knew Kat would be comin’ to get him in a few minutes to give him some alone time prior to the ceremony.

In those few minutes, Race ran over the details of the afternoon. He knew Spot had Itey and Hotshot standing up as his best man and groomsman. But Spot had told him nothing’ about his tuxedo for the wedding. All Race knew is that they would both wear the same boutineer, a white Ranunculus flower with some greenery and some twine wrapped around the stems. Kat promised the ceremony would be pretty straight forward - two readings and exchange of vows then they would be pronounced husbands and the party could start.

The loudness of the room pulled Race from his thoughts. The room had split into two different conversations. Albert caught Race’s eye, raising his own to ask the nonverbal question if he was okay. Race nodded, a grin on his face, toes continuing their nervous taps.

A knock on the door caught Race’s attention. He grinned seeing Sammi and Kat standing there. “Race?”

Nodding, he stood and told the guys he would see them in a little bit. He followed Kat and Sammi out of the room, walking out of the venue to see the harbor in front of him. Kat gave him a big hug and a grin. “I’m so proud of you. You are going to be a wonderful husband.”

“Thanks Kat.” He paused, pulling her back into a hug. “Thank you for everything yous done. This day has gone so smoothly, simply because yous got everything handled. The venue looks amazing.”

Squeezing his arm, she grinned at the praise. “You’re welcome. Now you’ll have 30 minutes out here before I’ll come get you. I’ll try to keep the boys away from the windows.”

“Thanks.”

He heard her heels click as she made her way back to the venue. He leaned against the barrier, listening to the waves crash and the seagulls call as they lazily flew around the harbor. He heard a door click shut and gentle footsteps behind him as a grin slid across his lips.

“Are you waiting for someone?” The smooth voice of the one and only Spot Conlon caused him to turn around, his eyes moving up and down taking in his appearance. “Because if yous not, that’s a damn shame.”

Spot was dressed in a navy blue tuxedo with tails, a cream vest, and a navy blue polkadot tie around his neck. In his hands was the familiar Newsies cap Spot was rarely seen without. “Yous look breathtakin’.”

“You don’t look half bad either, Higgins.” Spot closed the gap between the two, pulling Race into his arms. “Happy Weddin’ Day, love.”

Race nodded, suddenly overcome with emotions at seein’ his soon to be husband dressed to the nines. He sniffled, trying to keep the tears at bay. Spot softened seeing his boy so emotional, taking a handkerchief from his pocket, and gently wiped the tears away. “I love you.”

“Love you too.” A watery smile crossed Race’s lips before he bent over and placed a chaste kiss on Spot’s lips, turning to face the harbor, watching the water hit the pier. “Been wanting to do that since yesterday.”

Spot chuckled. “Soon, cara, soon. What did you do today?”

“Nothin’ much. Got breakfast, bought a pape, played with Sammi and Tommy, and came here. Yous?”

Spot leaned against the barrier, mimicking Race’s stance. “Swam in the harbor for old times sakes then went to the Lodgin’ House before getting ready and comin’ here.”

Hummin’ in contentment, Race laced his fingers with Spot’s, squeezing them gently. “Of course yous swim in da harbor before wes got married.”

“It was relaxin’ and its a tradition.” Spot exclaimed, Race shaking his head at him with a chuckle.

“I love you.”

“I love you too. Ready to be married to yous. Is it 4pm yet?” Spot whined as Race brought their connected hands up and kissed the back of his hand.

Looking at his watch, Race smiled. “We’ve got 45 minutes until the weddin’. Kat will be heres in 15 minutes.”

“And in 75 minutes wes married and time to party.” Spot grinned, squeezing their connected hands.

The clicking of high heels caught their attention. Looking over their shoulders, they both smiled seeing Kat coming closer to them. “Sorry boys to interrupt, but I figured you’d want to pin these on each other.”

Handing over their boutineers, Kat gave them both a smile before disappearing back into the venue. Facing his betrothed, Spot took the pin out of the arrangement, before quickly attached it to the lapel of Race’s tuxedo before kissing his cheek. Race followed suit before dippin’ Spot and placing a kiss on his lips. “If yous gonna do it, do it right, Conlon.”

“Last time you’ll get to call me that, Higgins.” Spot grinned.

Race’s eyes lit up at the thought. “Last time you’ll call me that, Sean.”

“That might be a new nickname for you snookums.”

Race paused as a thought hit him. “Jack and Albert told me Is shouldn’t cuss in our vows.”

“Was that a bet?” Spot turned, leaning over the barrier, watching the waves crash against the pier.

Race shook his head. “No but then they amended that would be a pretty amazin’ memory if wes did.”

“There may or may not bes a cuss word in mine.” Spot shrugged, grinning as Race’s head whipped up in his direction. “Gotta keep you on yous toes, cara.”

Running a hand through his hair, Race chuckled. “Did you write yours?”

“No. Is gonna speaks from my heart.” Spot smiled, lacing their hands together once more. “Did yous?”

Squeezing their locked hands, Race smiled, a seagull catching his attention as it flew by. “No. I just figured Is speak from the heart.” He shrugged. “So Is apologize if its a jumbled mess.”

“Wes steppin’ into this togetha. If it’s a jumble mess, then its our jumbled mess.” Spot grinned, Racce’s heart melting at the sweet words. “Is love you Anthony Racetrack Higgins and no messy vows will every change that.”

Tears clouded Race’s eyes once more, Spot reaching up to catch the tears on his finger. “Is love you too Sean Spot Conlon.”

The door opening once more caught their attention. Spot and Race both smiled seeing Kat coming towards them with a grin of her own. “Alright you two, you have 30 minutes until the wedding. Back to your rooms and I’ll come get you when it's your time to walk down the aisle.”

The two kissed for the last time as boyfriends before making their way to their own rooms, where their boys were waiting. Walking into the room, Race grinned, shutting the door behind him. “How about you be a little more lovey dovey there Higgins?”

Looking around the room, all seven of his brothers were still in the positions he left them before he met Spot. He shrugged, grinning at Finch who made the comment. “Not sure whats you talkin’ about but it’s my weddin’ day so Is be as much lovey dovey as Is want.”

“That was quite an impressive dip you did to Spot, Higgins.” Crutchie piped up giving Race a big grin.

Race chuckled, pausing and looking at each of the seven people in the room. “Is know I haven’t said this lately, but yous my best friends. Yous been there for the good times and the bads and Is damn lucky to have yous in my life. I love you guys.”

“Yous a sap Higgins.” Specs grinned. “But wes loves you too.”

And with that, the others left the room, leaving Race with Albert and Jack. “Any partin’ words before Is walk down the aisle, oh wise married ones?”

Jack and Albert traded glances with each other. “Just be good to each other.”

Jack nodded, agreeing with Albert’s sentiments. “Just be happy. Don’t let anger fester, talk it out, and just loves him. He’s really good for you, Race; better than anyone wes could’ve picked out for you.”

Kat came to grab Albert and Jack, getting them in place leaving Race in the room alone. The door opened, causing him to turn around and grin. “Hi Sammi. Hows you doin’?”

“Good, there’s music playin’. Uncle Race?”

“Yes Sammi?”

She climbed up into his lap, throwing her arms around his shoulders. “Yous gettin’ ‘arried, right?”

“Yes, to Uncle Spot.” He chuckled, seeing the girl’s excitement. “Is that okay?”

“Yes! Love Uncle Pottie!” She exclaimed. “But Is still yous best girl, right?”

Hugging Sammi tightly to his chest. “Yous always will be my best girl, even if Is have a girl of my own, got that?”

“Got it. Love you Uncle Race.” She reached up and smacked her lips against his cheek.

“Love you too Sammi.” Kissing her forehead, he gave her a tight hug.

Kat stood in the doorway and wiped away tears that had clouded her eyes at the sweetness between her daughter and uncle. “You two ready? Everyone’s seated and Spot’s up front with the boys.”

“Momma, Is throw ‘lowers?” Sammi hopped off Race’s lap before running over to Kat.

Kat bent down, wrapping her arms around Sammi’s shoulders. “Yes, you’ll throw flowers before Uncle Race walks down the aisle.”

Grabbing the basket full of white rose petals, Kat handed it to her daughter before giving her a hug. “Go stand by daddy when you get up the aisle, okay?”

Nodding her head, Sammi grinned. Hearing the music change, Kat quickly opened the door, allowing Sammi to slip through, before starting her journey up the aisle. “You doing okay?”

“Me? Is should be askin’ you that.” Race grinned. “Yous been runnin’ around like a crazy person while Is been relaxin’ in a room.” He paused. “Is ready to be married.”

“Kat, Is need to ask you somethin’.” Race had stopped by the brownstone after work one afternoon in September. She was typing up her newest article as a four month old Tommy slept soundly in his bassinet across the room.

Motioning him to give her a minute, she finished her sentence before standing and making her way to him. “What’s wrong? Is it Spot?”

“Spots fine.” He looked at her. “But wes were talkin’ last night about the weddin’ and Is wanted to asks you something.”

Kat smiled, giving him a quick hug. “Anything.”

“Spot wants to watch mes walk down the aisle but I don’t wants to walk down by myself.” He paused. “Jack’s in the weddin’ along with Albert so neither of them can do it. But since yous my sister, will you walk with me?”

Tears clouded her eyes. “Race, really?”

“Yous my sister, Kat. Always has been and always wills be.” He squeezed her hand. “Please?”

Throwing her arms around his shoulders, she bounced on her toes and let out a happy squeal. “Of course I would. It’ll be an honor to walk you down the aisle. But why didn’t you want to walk down by yourself?”

“I wouldn’t be heres if it wasn’t for yous, Jack, or Albert. Those two are already ins the weddin’ but I wanted a few moments where its just yous and me.” He shrugged. “Besides, yous always been not only a sister to me but a moms as well.”

“Race, Racetrack.” She cooed quietly putting a hand on his back, not wanting to startle him from whatever memory he was in. “Are you ready to walk down the aisle?”

Shaking his head, he looked at his sister with a grin. “Let’s do this.”

Standing side by side with their arms linked, Kat winked at Race as they stepped into the chapel. The music had changed to “Clair de Lune,” by Debussy and Kat and Race took their journey down the aisle. Race had locked eyes with Spot about halfway down and hadn’t looked away.

Standing with Spot was Buttons, who had gone into Seminary School and become a preacher. When Spot and Race had gone to him with the request to marry them, Buttons happily accepted.

Coming to a stop at the end of the aisle, Kat turned to Race with a smile before standing on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek and whisper “be good to one another,” before making her way to her seat. Spot walked over and laced his fingers with Race’s, giving them a squeeze before they both faced Buttons.

“Dearly beloved, we gather here to witness the union between Anthony ‘Racetrack’ Higgins and Sean ‘Spot’ Conlon. Before we begin, does anyone object to this union, speak now or forever hold your peace.”

Spot and Race glared around the chapel, daring anyone to speak up. After a few uncomfortable moments, Buttons grinned and continued on with the ceremony.

“Marriage is a sacred act, between two people in the presence of God, their family and friends. Race and Spot have decided on their own twist to the ceremony. I believe York will start us off with a poem.”

York stood, walking over to the side of Spot with a piece of paper, grinning at the two grooms.

“Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear; Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I kept the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”

York made his way back to his seat as Buttons shifted. “A marriage is not only the joining together of two individuals, it is also a joining together of two families. The care, support, and nurture which have been extended to Anthony and Sean by their families is as important now as it has ever been. In fact, it needs to be extended now to include another person”

“Katherine, I believe you have a reading Anthony and Sean would like you to read.” Buttons said with a smile in his friend’s direction.

Kat walked to the front on Race’s side. Clearing her throat a bit, she started reading, keeping her eye on the grooms, a smile crossed her lips.

"A good marriage must be created. In the art of marriage the little things are the big things –- It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say ‘I love you’ at least once each day. It is never going to sleep angry. It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives. It is standing together facing the world. It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family. It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways. It is having the capacity to forgive and forget. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is finding room for the things of the spirit. It is a common search for the good and the beautiful. It is not only marrying the right partner –- It is being the right partner."

Race squeezed Spot’s hand after Kat finished reading. Flashing a smile at his sister, she flashed him one back. Waiting until she sat down, Button looked between Race and Spot. “Now the grooms have written their own vows. Sean, would you like to begin?”

“Race, from the first time I laid eyes on you, Is thought you were a pain in the ass. But Is guess from this day forward, yous will be my pain in the ass. I love that you may sometimes make questionable decisions but what Is love about yous is Is know that you do those things because you care so deeply about those who are close to you and are genuinely one of the most thoughtful and considerate people Is have ever known. As we continue to grow in our lives together, Is promise to give you all of my words when needed, and to share in the silence when they are not, to pick you up if you are down, and to love you unconditionally. Anthony, yous my everythin’ and this is my promise to you.” Sniffling, Spot squeezed Race’s hand as he finished.

“Anthony, your turn.” Button smiled as Race squeezed Spot’s hand.

“Spot, I never imagined this day would come, but now that we are here. Is couldn't have imagined choosin’ anyone else but you to go through life's journey with. Is love your laugh, your smile, your tough guyness and the sentimental side that you only share with me. Yous my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and the one Is want to spill all my secrets to. Is will not take our time together for granted. And because words cannot do it, Is promise to show you, for the rest of my life, how much Is love you. Is promise to make you laugh when you are takin’ yourself too seriously. From today forward, you’ll never walk alone again; I’ll forever be bys your side. Spot, yous my everything and this is my promise to you.” Sniffling, Race bit his lip trying to keep the tears at bay. Spot reached over with a handkerchief and wiped the tears that had slipped down Race’s face as the two smiled at the tender moment.

“You have chosen to seal your vows by the giving and receiving of rings. The ring forms a perfect circle, without a beginning or an end, and is thereby a symbol of eternity and signifies the duration of the commitment you are making. Let us now exchange these rings.”

Handing a beat up silver ring to Race, Buttons looked at him. “Anthony, repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and with all that I have, I will honor you.”

“I give you this ring, as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and with all that I have, I will honor you.” Race smiled, sliding the ring onto Spot’s ring finger. Spot squeezed his hand with a smile before Buttons continued.

Handing a ring to Spot, Buttons looked at him. “Sean, repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and with all that I have, I will honor you.”

“I give you this ring, as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and with all that I have, I will honor you.” Spot grinned, sliding Race’s engagement ring back onto his ring finger.

“And now, by the authority invested in me as a preacher, and in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, I now pronounce you man and man. Anthony, you may kiss your husband.” Catcalls and excited cheers rang out from both sides of the aisles as Race pulled Spot into his arms and dramatically dipped him before kissing him not so chastly. Settling Spot back on his feet, Race pulled him and dropped a chaste kiss on his lips before linking their hands together.

“Gentlemen, please face the congregation.” Buttons grinned at both his friends before clearing his throat. “It is my pleasure to introduce to you, for the very first time, Mr. and Mr. Higgins-Conlon.”

The noise level in the chapel escalated as the two raised their hands in celebration before walking down the aisle to the catcalls of their friends. Walking out of the chapel, Race drug Spot behind a column, where the two wouldn’t immediately be found. Pulling Spot to him, Race grinned before kissing him. “Hello husband.”

“Hmm . . . Is could get used to hearing you call me that.” Spot purred before standing on his tiptoes kissing Race once more. “Hello husband. Wes did it, wes married!”

Their bubble was busted a few moments later as Kat found them with her eyes covered. “Is it okay to peak?”

“Wes still decent if thats what yous asking.” Spot chuckled, watching Kat remove her hand from her eyes.

She rolled her eyes before grinning at the two. “You two have some things you need to take care of before you run off. Come greet everyone before you sign your marriage certificate.”

Standing outside the chapel, they greeted all of their guests with hugs, kisses, and a few comments. Medda was wiping her eyes as she greeted them while Elmer and Specs were both looking for the free booze they were promised. Jack, Kat, and Sammi were the last ones out of the chapel. Sammi quickly ran to her uncle who easily picked her up and put her on his hip. “What did yous think Sammi?”

“Yous married Uncle Race to Uncle Pottie.” She exclaimed, throwing her arms around his shoulders before smacking her lips to his cheek. “Con’tulations!”

“Thank you Sammi. Yous threw the flowers perfectly.” He snuggled her before she jumped into Spot’s arms to congratulate him.

Turning to his brother, he was surprised to see the remnants of tear tracks on Jack’s cheeks. “You okays, Jackie?”

“Yous vows got me.” He shrugged. “It was a beautiful ceremony, Race. Congratulations!”

Race brought him in for a hug before slapping the back of his back. “Yous wife is a godsent. She’s an amazin’ planner and wes got her to thank for this.”

Jack smiled. “She is pretty spectacular. But it’s your day today. Makes sure you take some time to commit this to memory. It’ll go by too fast.”

Nodding at Jack’s advice, Race patted him on the back before turning to the one person he knew was the biggest piece of the day being pulled off beautifully. “Plums, yous amazing, yous know that right?”

“Race, your the amazing one. I just did what you asked.” She pulled him into a hug. “Congratulations, the ceremony was beautiful and look, you’re a married man now.”

“All thanks to you, Kat. Seriously, yous pulled off an amazing ceremony.” Race grinned at his sister before Spot popped up, with Sammi still in his arms. “He’s right yous know. Thank you, Kat. Wes couldn’t have done it without yous.”

Hugging them both, she grinned pulling back, grabbing Sammi from Spot’s arms. “You’re more than welcome. I’d do anything for you two since you’ve done so much for me and Jack. Enjoy tonight but take some time and really soak this in - tonight will go by too fast for you both. Trust me.”

Looking in the chapel, she saw Itey, Albert, and Buttons waiting for them. “Go sign your marriage certificate. Then, you’ve got a few minutes before they’ll announce you as husbands inside the dining room - take some time just for the two of you and I’ll come get you before they announce you.”

Quickly signing the document, the two made their way back down the aisle waiting to be called in as Albert, Itey and Buttons all walked into the dining room. Race pulled Spot into a hug, letting the calm of the moment pass over them. “Is love you.”

“Is love you too.”

“What song did yous pick for the dance?” Race had given that to Spot as he had no idea what to pick. Spot was quite secretive on what he had picked.

Spot grinned. “Yous just have to wait. Any surprises tonight, snookums?”

“Not that Is aware of. Wes havin’ dinner, dancin’, speeches; Albert and Itey may has come surprises up their sleeves but none that Is aware of.”

Spot shook his head. “Is told Itey to go easy on us.”

“Is told Albert the same but Is slightly afraid of what lies ahead.” Race reached for Spot’s hand, giving it a squeeze. “Husband . . . when do you think it’ll hit us?”

Spot squeezed his hand, grinning at the metal on his ring finger. “Is hopin’ not for a longs time.”

Kat stuck her head out in the lobby. “You two ready?”

They walked over to the room’s entrance, hands intertwined before hearing a booming voice speak. “For the first time, please welcome Mr. and Mr. Higgins-Conlon.”

The room was loud and crazy as the two walked in. They were both greeting people as they made their way to their own table. As soon as they sat down, there were clinking glasses, signaling them to kiss. Race happily obliged, leaning over and sweetly kissing Spot.

Soft music started to play as everyone got situated at their tables and the waitstaff started serving salads. Race took a moment to look around the room at all the tables set up. They hadn’t made table assignments, instead all of their friends could sit wherever and with whoever they wanted to. There were vases of white peonies on each of the tables with a candle (or tea light as Kat always corrected him) flickering bringing a gentle ambiance to the room.

Spot nuding his shoulder broke him from his thoughts. “You okay?”

“Just takin’ it all in.” He smiled, leaning over and kissing Spot’s lips. “Is love you.”

Spot smiled. “Is love you too, snookums.”

Soon, the buffet opened for everyone while the servers delivered plates to Spot and Race. The room quietened into a comfortable hum as everyone got their food and started eating.

Before long, Itey stood up and clanked his glass, getting the attention of everyone in the room.

“Ladies and Gentleman, if there is anyone here amongst us this afternoon who should be feeling nervous, apprehensive and maybe little queasy at the thought of what lies ahead… It's probably Race because you have just married Spot. For those who donts know me, my name is Itey and Is would like to thank Spot for finally confirming that I am indeed the best man.” A hearty laughter rolled through the room as Itey gave Spot a cheesy smile.

“Some would describe him as loyal, caring, sincere, popular, honest, good looking and most of all modest. But that's enough about me; we should maybe talk about Spot. Spot and Is met back in 1887 when we were just wee lads as we ended up in the same Lodging House hawkin’ papes for the World. Spot was a reserved young man who rarely talked, a skill he seems to lose as hes gotten older.” Spot sent a glare in Itey’s direction before shaking his head.

“Is could go on humiliating Spot but I have to remind myself that there are children present and he can do a good job of it himself anyway. Is have other stories about Spot that are available for a small fee at the bar later, just buy me a lager. Spot has been a wonderful friend with a tough guy exterior but once you break through that exterior, you’re friends with him. Over the years I've been taught several great things by Spot, the art of drinking-too much, how not to go chatting up a pretty girl. But the biggest thing he’s taught me is how to be a decent person; hows to keep your word and how to be a great leader. Spot, Is happy for you and Race and I sincerely hope the pair of you have a long and happy marriage together. I know that you will make him very happy and you are everything that he needs. Just please try and look after him as much as we do. Please raise your glasses and toast Spot and Race.”

“To Spot and Race!” The room echoed Itey as he made his way over to the grooms with a grin. Spot bearhugged him as Race gave him a bright smile.

As soon as Itey was seated, Albert stood up with a piece of paper and a big grin on his face.

“Hi! For those of you who don’t know me I’m Albert, Race’s best man. When Race asked me to be his best man I felt honoured and had to say yes.” Albert grinned, looking between Spot and Race. “I’ve known Race for 16 years now, and he’s asked me to talk today about what a great guy he is, so I can honestly say that he is handsome, brilliant, funny and char…. (TURN TO Race) … Race, I can’t read your writing. What’s this last word?” A loud ripple of laughter sounded through the room while Albert grinned brightly at Race.

“Since we first met, I have seen his transformation from an awkward youth to a slightly less awkward adult and it’s my great pleasure to speak on this important occasion. I met Race when Jack picked me up from the streets and brought me into the Lodging House. We struck up a good friendship and it’s stayed like that ever since. We may have gotten into our fair share of trouble - can anyone recall the incident in Central Park?”

“Moving on Albert!” Race yelled, squeezing Spot’s hand as he glared at his best friend. Albert grinned brightly and turned his head. “Love you too Race!”

“Moving on . . . Is look back at some of the stuff we have done together and it makes me proud to have a friend like you. We have had some truly great times and have shared some great experiences together, memories Is will never forget. Is have been honoured to have been your best man and want you to know that Is look up to you more than you could imagine. Just remember, love is like a circle, it goes on forever and I love you man! I can see how happy you make each other and I wish you both nothing but happiness for your future together. Ladies and gentlemen, it truly has been an honour delivering this speech to you, so please, join me in raising your glasses to the happy couple!”

Raising his class, Albert grinned. “To Race and Spot!”

Everyone in the room reciprocated the action while Albert hugged Race. “Thank you, Albie. Why the Central Park incident? Nothing really happened.”

“You’re welcome, Race. Gotta let the people wonderin’ what happened.” Chuckling, Albert patted him and Spot on the back, he headed back to his seat beside Marie.

Music started up as Spot held his hand out for Race. “Shall we?”

Spot pulled Race into his arms as they started twirling around the dance floor. Race grinned, letting Spot lead him across the floor. “So Is got a question for you.”

“What’s that?”

“Hows many kids yous want?” Race titled his head, giving Spot a soft smile.

Spot gave him a look, shaking his head. “Shouldn’t wes talked about this before the weddin’?”

“Ugh . . . I knows you want kids and yous know I want kids. We knews there’ll be kids but Is askin’ how many.” Race gave him a cheesy look while tryin’ to look innocent.

Spot chuckled, dancing in tune with the music softly playing. “Maybe 2 or 3. More than 1 for sures.”

“Sounds like a plans to me.” He said before Spot dipped him in the middle of the dance floor as applause rang around them at their first dance.

They parted ways after their dance as people wanted to talk with them. Race got pulled into a conversation with some of his coworkers as Spot headed to the Brooklyn table. Within minutes, Race was scanning the crowd looking for someone in particular. He grinned when he spotted her, excusing him from the conversation before heading over to where she was.

Bowing at her, he grinned at her. “Can Is have this dance, m’lady?”

Sammi giggled, her curls falling out of her ponytail. “Uncle Race, yous silly.”

“Is silly? Will yous dance with me?” Race gave her a puppy dog smile as she nodded her head before hopping off the chair she was kneeling on.

Following him onto the dance floor, Sammi hopped on top of his shoes, as they twirled around the dance floor. Her giggles were loud as Race sang along to the music. Picking her up in his arms, she threw her arms around his shoulders as they moved together. “You havin’ fun, Sammi?”

Nodding her head, she looked over his shoulder. “Uncle Race?”

“Yes Sammi?”

Cupping her hands around his ear, she leaned in to whisper. “Whens da cake?”

Throwing his head back laughin’, Race shook his head at his niece. “Soon, Sammi. Yous’ll get the first piece, alright?”

“Okay!” She giggled before her eyes went wide. “Momma!”

“Samantha.” Kat giggled as the two stopped dancing. “May I cut in and dance with Uncle Race?”

Sammi looked at her uncle. “Its a plea’ure dancin’ with you, Uncle Race.” She kissed his cheek before he set her on the ground. A moment passed before she headed back to the table where her coloring book and crayons were.

Pulling Kat into his arms, Race started dancing as they made their way around the dance floor. She took a moment to look at her brother. “You doing okay, Race?”

“Is just over the moon happy.” He sighed. “Alls I want is to go home and just be with Spot.”

Kat laughed. “I remember that all too well from my own wedding. You just want the quiet and your spouse.”

“Yes!” Race grinned. “Lookin’ forward to the rest of the week in Cold Springs just the two of us. Wes rented a cabin ups there.”

Kat grinned. “You’ll enjoy that. We used to spend summers up there at a family cottage. There’s a lot to see and do. Jack and I really enjoyed getting away from the city on our honeymoon. Dinner when you get back?”

“Is sure Spot and Is can swing that.” Race grinned, pulling her into a hug. “Thanks Kat. Is know you’re probably tired of hearin’ it but yous been a lifesaver and Is thankful for yous friendship and sisterness.”

She grinned. “Just remember that when you have kids and you need to think of a middle name. Kate or Katherine would be great middle names.”

Throwing his head back, Race laughed loudly, catching the attention of several others on the dance floor, including Jack as he made his way towards his wife and brother. “You two causin’ trouble over here?”

“No more than usual.” Race grinned. “Where yous been, Jackie? Thought you’d be tearin’ up the dance floor.”

Sticking his hands in his pockets, Jack rocked back on his heels. “Just conjuring up a surprise for yous and Spot. Can yous grab him and meet me in the Willow Room?”

Kissing Kat’s cheek, Race promised he’d meet Jack there in a few minutes before going to find Spot. Sliding up beside his husband, he slid his hand into Spot’s squeezing it gently, as Spot looked up from his conversation with Itey and Hotshot.

“There’s my husband.” Spot exclaimed.

Saying his hellos to Spot’s best friends, Race grinned. “Can I steal you away for a few minutes?”

Promising to catch up next week after they returned, Spot followed Race across the room and out into the lobby of the venue. Spot squeezed Race’s hands but not asking any questions. “Jack wanted to see us in the Willow Room.”

Walking into the room, they saw Jack leaning against a table with something on the table. “Ah there yous two.”

“What’s up Jackie?” Race asked looking at his brother for any signs of what Jack needed them for.

“I wanted to give yous something as a present. I sketched it earlier and was trying to figure out how to get it to yous two - thought about sneakin’ it into the house but Kat said this would be better for yous two.” Jack rambled, which never happened, giving Race the heads up that he was nervous about whatever was on the table.

Stepping forward, Race looked at the frame on the table. Jack had sketched the two of them as they stood on the pier earlier before the ceremony. Spot’s face was facing the river as their hands were linked, perched on the barrier. Race’s face was turned towards Spot’s with a big grin on his face. Race’s top hat was skewed on his head while Spot’s Newsies cap was perched delicately on top of his head.

Race swallowed the sudden rush of emotions of seeing the sketch. “Jack . . . this is incredible. When did you have time to do this?”

“While you two fools were standing out there.” Jack smiled. “I asked Kat to ensure that you two had 30 minutes to just see each other before the weddin’. I knew I wanted to sketch something from today but didn’t know what - this just sorta happened.”

Spot swung his arm around Jack, pulling him in for a hug. “This is incredible - it’ll go in the living room of the house, right above the couch. Thank you for sketching it - we’ll cherish it always.”

Race followed suit, pulling his brother into a hug, tears in his eyes. “Thanks Jackie. This is the best present yous could’ve given us. A perfect weddin’ memento.”

“Kat and Is will take it to the house tomorrow but Is wanted you to see it tonight.” Jack grinned, the nervousness from earlier gone.

Spot and Jack gave him one more hug before they headed back into the lobby, taking one moment just the two of them. “Yous made me the happiest man alive, Sean Higgins-Conlon and Is love you forever for it.”

“Yous made me pretty happy yourself, Anthony Higgins-Conlon. Is love you.”

They joined their guests in the room as an upbeat song was played. They danced, laughed, and shoved cake in each other’s faces as the night came to an end. Long drawn out goodbyes to their friends and family were said before the two left via carriage as tin cans tied to the undercarriage sang their departure. Mr. and Mr. Higgins-Conlon married at last.

Okay some credit is due. There are two poems that are read in the wedding ceremony. The first poem York read is “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost. You may recall that this was partially read when Spot proposed to Race. This poem wasn’t written until 1916 but I felt like it fit Race and Spot so well - so forgive me for utilizing artistic liberties. The second poem that Kat read is called “The Art of Marriage” by Wilferd Arlan Peterson. When I read this, I immediately fell in love with it and knew that it fit our two leading men perfectly.

So what did you think? This is 8,900 words of pure love written over two days and I would really appreciate some comments on what you loved, hated, or got emotional at. I had some tears in my eyes as I wrote this. Any feedback would be appreciated!!!!

#The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race #racetrack higgins #spot conlon #Mr. and Mr. Higgins-Conlon #dancerlittle006 #writing #newsies #fan fiction #newsies writing #newsies fan fiction

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

School Days

September 1907

For the last several weeks, Katherine and Jack had talked about how exciting Sammi starting school was going to be. They were trying to hype the girl up but she was nervous. It also didn’t help that they had just welcomed another baby, Elizabeth Marie Kelly into the family and Sammi was very protective of her younger sister. Kat had suggested they get Race and Spot involved but Jack wasn’t ready to engage his brother and brother-in-law just yet.

“But momma.” She stomped her foot. “Why doesn’t Tommy or Lizzie hafta go?”

Kat smiled at her daughter. “They’re too young, Sammi. Besides, you’re a big girl and you can tell them how wonderful school will be when it’s their time to go.”

“But I don’t want to go!” Sammi stomped her foot, just as the phone rang. Katherine took a break from arguing with her daughter to answer it.

“Hi Race. No you’re not interrupting anything.” She said into the receiver.

Sammi tuned her mother’s voice out, opting to play with her doll. She heard her mother hang up the phone before looking over her shoulder. “What’s wrong, momma?”

“Benny isn’t feeling well and Uncle Race was calling about him.” Kat looked at Sammi. “How about we go visit them?”

She rushed to get her shoes on while Kat put shoes on Tommy and bundled Lizzie up and placed her in the pram. They made their way down the street, heading towards Race and Spot’s brownstone. They soon arrived, Sammi running up the stairs to knock on the door while Tommy lumbered behind his older sister slowly. Katherine smiled at him picking up Lizzie and walking up the stairs just as the front door opened. “Thank God you’re here.”

Her and the children rushed in behind him, shutting the door before they made their way through the house. Kat could hear Benny crying in his room. “Can I put Lizzie down in the bassinet?”

Race nodded, ducking down the hallway to Benny’s room. Katherine laid the baby down before looking at Tommy, Sammi, and Ellie. “How about you three play while da and I look after Benny?”

The kids nodded, loving the impromptu playdate. Katherine made sure they were all set before ducking down the hallway to the little boy’s room. He wasn’t crying as hard as when she first arrived, but was cuddled against Race’s shoulder. “How’s it going?”

“He’s calmed for now.” Race sighed. “He was fine this morning but now, he’s just miserable, and wants to be held all the time.”

Holding out her hands for the boy, she smiled as he reached for her. “What’s going on Benny Boo?”

He whined, burying his head in her shoulder. “He feels warm to me. Have you tried giving him a bath?”

“No .. . was I supposed to?” Race asked. Despite being a parent for over a year, he was still learning so much about the children.

Kat chuckled, swaying side to side. “You’re not supposed to do any one particular thing but it may help bring the fever down, if he has one. It might help him feel better. Make the water lukewarm - not too hot.”

Race nodded. He went to start a bath while Kat undressed the still whining baby. She sushed him and cooed at him before picking him back up, walking to the bathroom. Handing him over to his da, Race gently took off his diaper before putting him in the tub, heart tugging as Benny whined.

“How did yous get so good at being a mom?” Race asked, as Benny relaxed in the tub. “How do you know what to do?”

Kat leaned against the doorway, watching Race and Benny. “Well, I’m on my third child. I called my mother so many times during that first year with Sammi. She joked that she might as well move in which Jack quickly put his foot down about. But you learn and you figure things out.”

Race nodded, taking a sponge and dragging water across Benny’s body, the boy giggling slightly. “Look at how much you’ve learned in the year since you adopted Ellie and Benny. Think of the things that you couldn’t do a year ago but now can do with your eyes closed.”

Race chuckled, thinking about the first few weeks and months with the 3 year old and the baby. Bottle making, sleepless nights, times all four of them were crying. “You’re right. And Is sure we’ll continue to learn.”

“You will.” Kat smiled, holding out a towel for Race to put Benny in. “Now I need your help.”

Race transferred the wet baby to Kat’s awaiting arms before cleaning up the mess. “Anything, name your wish.”

“I need you to talk with Sammi about school.” Kat sighed, laying the baby on the floor and putting a fresh diaper on him before picking him up once more before he could fuss. “She is adamant she doesn’t want to go.”

Race smiled, walking towards Benny’s room, Kat trailing behind him. “Of course, absolutely. I thought she was excited to go.”

“She was excited but since Lizzie was born, she doesn’t want to leave her sister behind. She keeps making up excuses.” Kat sighed. “Jack keeps telling me that she’ll get excited as it gets closer but we’re a week out and she doesn’t even want to talk about it.”

He nodded, giving his sister a side hug. “I’ll talk to her in a little bit. Let’s get this little man taken care of. If you’ll give him a bottle, Is talk with Sammi.”

She nodded, dressing him in a sleeper as Race went and made a bottle before returning, handing it over to Kat with a grin. He watched them for a minute before walking into the living room. Tommy, Sammi and Ellie all played with the trucks, blocks, and dolls scattered around them. “Sammi, can Is talk to you for a minute?”

She glanced at her uncle before walking over to where he sat on the couch. She climbed up and leaned against him. “Hi Uncle Race. Is Benny okay?”

“He will be. Your mom is feeding him a bottle right now.” Race pulled Sammi onto his lap. “Are you ready for school?”

Sammi laid her head on his shoulder, shaking her head. “Is not going to school. Is staying with mom, Tom, and Lizzie.”

“But yous have to go to school. Yous don’t want mom and dad to go to jail, do you?” Race’s eyes went wide as the little girl giggled.

Sammi giggled at how silly her uncle was. “Theys not gonna go to jail.”

“Theys might if you don’t go to school.” Race chuckled. “Yous gonna have so much fun and Miss Hill is going to be a wonderful teacher and yous gonna learn so much. Yous might be smarter than your momma one day.”

Sammi’s eyes went wide at her uncle’s statement. “Is not smarter than momma.”

“Not now yous aren’t but one day yous might be.” He nodded, leaning close to his niece. “Besides, for someone who didn’t go to school, you can tell me all about it and maybe Is can learn with you.”

She nodded, giving him a grin. “Okays, Is go to school.”

Katherine came out of the hallway hearing her daughter’s proclamation with a grin. “You’re going to school, Samantha Anne?”

“Yes momma! Uncle Race told me Is havta.” Sammi grinned at her mother as Katherine sat beside her.

Kat shot Race an appreciative grin before looking at her daughter. “I’m so happy to hear that. You’re going to have a great time in school.”

“Can I go play now?” Sammi asked, looking between her mother and uncle.

Rave nodded, watching the little girl jump off the couch to go play with her cousin and brother. Kat looked at Race with a grin. “Thank you for whatever you said to her. I love you and appreciate you more than you’ll ever know.”

“Is told her that she’d be smarter than yous one day.” Race shrugged. “It seemed to work - she warmed up to the idea of school pretty quickly after that.”

She clapped quietly. “Well I appreciate it regardless of what you said. And I hope she is smarter than me one day.”

The front door opened and shut with a quiet bang as Spot walked in with a grin. “Kat! This is a surprise.”

“When your husband calls up frantically due to your son being sick, a visit is a must.” Kat gave her friend a grin. “Benny’s sleeping and has a slight fever.”

Spot gave Race a look before kissing him. “Calling up Kat when our son is sick?”

“It was in a moment of panic and I didn’t know what to do. He was crying and Ellie was tugging at me.” He kissed Spot once more, dropping his voice to a whisper. “I really had her come over so Ellie would have someone to play with.”

Katherine scoffed, shaking her head at the two of them. “You two are ridiculous.”

“But you love us regardless of that.” Spot grinned, looking over at the three kids playing.

Race raised an eyebrow. “I actually solved a problem of hers.” He said blowing on his nails, polishing them against his shirt. “Sammi has been in a state of denial about attending school and Uncle Race to the rescue and now she’s all excited.”

Spot shook his head at his husband. “Of course all it took is one conversation with Uncle Race and suddenly it’s okay.” Giving Kat a look, “Haven’t you learned that trick yet?”

“Yea, yea she loves you two more than she loves me and Jack.” Kat rolled her eyes at her daughter’s love of her uncles, actually all of her children’s love of their uncles.

A Week Later

Flanked by her parents and Uncle Race, Sammi skipped on her way to school. She was giggling as Jack skipping alongside her. Kat and Race were walking arm in arm, shaking their heads at the two’s antics.

Stopping in front of the school, Jack picked up Sammi, both of them looking at the big building in front of them. “Yous doing okay, Sammi?”

“Uh huh.” She put her hand to her lip, eyes big at the building. “Its big, daddy.”

“It is but you’re going to have a great day and learn lots.” Jack whispered as Kat and Race caught up to them. “Yous ready to go in?”

She shrugged, looking over her shoulder at Race. “Yous come too?”

“You think Is walked all this way and not comin’ in with you, Sammi?” Race grinned. “Yous crazy, silly girl. Let’s go.”

They walked into the building, following other parents for the first day. They quickly found Miss Hill’s classroom before Jack put Sammi down. She clutched his hand as they walked into the classroom. The classroom was loud with kids playing and parents talking to one another. Race dropped to his knee and looked at Sammi. “This room looks like it’s so much fun. You’re going to have a great day here.”

Kat and Jack both looked around the room, picking out Sammi’s teacher who was talking to another parent. “Shall we look for your desk, Sammi?”

She held her hand out for Kat and Jack to take before walking deeper into the classroom. They looked at the clusters of desks before Jack pointed towards a cluster in the back corner. “I think I see a Samantha Kelly desk over there.”

They made their way over to the desk, Sammi lighting up when she recognized her name taped to the desk. “Look momma!”

“I see baby. It says Samantha.” Kat crouched down, grinning at Sammi.

Jack joined his wife crouching down, dropping his voice to a whisper. “It looks like the BEST desk in the room to me.”

Sammi giggled, just as Miss Hill came over to greet Sammi. “Hi Samantha, I’m so excited to have you in my class this year. Who did you bring with you today?”

“Hi Miss Hill.” Sammi smiled brightly. “This is my momma, daddy, and Uncle Race.”

Miss Hill looked at the three adults with a smile. “It’s very nice to meet you. We’ll be beginning class in a few minutes. Sammi, say your goodbyes and sit down at your desk when you’re ready.”

Miss Hill left them alone as Sammi looked at the ground. “Do yous have to go?”

“Afraid so, darlin’.” Kat smiled. “But you’re going to have so much fun and we’ll meet you outside after school, okay?”

Sammi nodded, shuffling over to give Kat a hug before looking at her dad. “I love yous daddy.”

“I love you too Samantha Anne.” Jack kissed her forehead. “Yous gonna do great things, darlin’. Have a great day of school and I’ll see you later.”

She nodded, walking over to Uncle Race. “Yous be here after school?”

“Yes, I will Sammi. I love you girlie. Have a great day at school and Is can’t wait to hear alls about it.” Race kissed her forehead, standing up and waving goodbye before he followed Kat and Jack out of the classroom.

The three stood by the doorway as Sammi took her seat. She peaked up when another girl sat beside her, the two girls quickly talking to one another. Kat looked at the two men beside her with a grin. “Your girl will be just fine. It looks like she’s made a friend already. Let’s go before she sees us.”

“But what if she . . .” Jack and Race both started, before Kat took their hands and led them from the doorway.

Shaking her head, Kat grinned. “She will be fine. She’s a Kelly and with as much confidence and sass as that girl has, she’ll be just fine.”

Walking out of the school, Kat sighed listening to Jack and Race come up with excuses on why they should hang around the school, “just in case” Sammi needed them. “Mark my words, Higgins and Kelly, she will be just fine and she’ll be even more excited about going back tomorrow.”

3:00pm

The three had parted ways earlier that morning, Kat and Jack headed to The World while Race headed to the hotel to work his shift. They had gathered in front of the school, chatting quietly while they waited for the bell to ring. It rang before children streamed out of every available door. “Do you see her yet?”

Kat looked at Jack before shaking her head. Race grinned, pointing her out. “There she is.”

Sammi raced over to where they sat, flying into Jack’s arms with a grin. “How was your day?”

“IT WAS AMAZING!” She yelled, jumping up and down with a grin. “Is learned my ABCs!”

Kat and Race fussed over Sammi with a grin while Jack hugged her close. “I’m so glad you had a great day, Sammi.”

“Shall we go celebrate?” Kat asked, giving the three of them a big smile. “I think I hear the newly done schoolgirl loves ice cream?”

Sammi’s eyes widened as she nodded her head. “Is LOVE ice cream.”

“Shall we go get some?” Jack asked, picking her up in his arms before lacing his fingers with Kat. “Yous in Uncle Race?”

Race grinned, nodding. “Of course, I am. Let’s go!”

The four of them set off down the street, heading towards Jacobi’s for celebratory ice cream for Sammi’s first day of school.

What did you think? Feedback and comments are always welcomed!

#The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race #Jack Kelly #Katherine Kelly #Spot Conlon #Racetrack Higgins #Writing #Dancerlittle006

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

GI Joe’s & My Little Ponys

Race/Spot

I may or may not be wearing a cape right now. Hint: I am.

Are you drunk?

It’s 9:30 in the morning

Not drunk.

Cleaning out the closet in the hallway and found it.

It was one that Medda made us when we came to live with her

Awww you little sentimental sap you

You’re going down memory lane

I guess I am

So why are you cleaning out the closet now?

I’ve been asking you to do that for the last six months!

Feeling restless and tired of hearing a scary Spot-like voice in my head

Hey now!

I’ve got a very pleasant voice

This wasn't your voice

This voice was BIG and SCARY and not like your voice at all

Scared ya into cleaning?

Hmmm …. I’ll have to remember that

But I do have a question

What’s that?

Why is there an Barbie doll in this closet?

I dunno. What does it look like?

That’s not a Barbie doll … that’s GI Joe

😂😂😂 He looks like a rugged messed up Ken doll

He’s Gi Joe, Race

DO NOT THROW HIM OUT!!!

Would you and GI Joe like some alone time?

Leave us be Racer.

I have sooooooo many questions

But he’ll be back in the closet after I finish. Safe and sound

Any other treasure troves you’ve found?

What about this?

That’s not mine. I don’t recognize that at all

Well it’s not mine.

It smells good though

Could it be Smalls?

Could be. Her stuff was always in with mine 🤷🏻‍

Alright … some of us need to work.

Don’t leave me!!!!

The faster I work, the faster I’ll be home

Fiiiiiiunnnnnnneeeeeee

Go make money and I’ll see you at home

Love you snookums

Love you too

#i can totally see Race cleaning with a cape on #spot conlon #racetrack higgins #newsies #dancerlittle006 #writing #fan fiction #newsies fan fiction #writing prompt #prompt

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

New Beginnings

First things first, I don’t own anything related to Disney or Newsies. Second of all, this is a continuation of my “The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race” series. You may want to read the others in the series but it’s not necessary! This chapter is about as historically accurate as it’s going to get. As always, feedback is always appreciated and loved!!!

August 1906

Disappointment had been a familiar feeling by this point in the Higgins-Conlon household. Shortly after they got married, they had started to inquire about steps to adding to their family. They had found a fantastic agency that was perfect for them and enthusiastic to work with the two of them.

Early November 1905, they had a birth mother all lined up and were expecting their child to be welcomed into the world in March 1906. That birth mom took one look at the child and decided to keep the child, crushing Spot and Race’s dreams, hopes, and wishes. By that point, their entire family had known and to tell any of them that their child wasn’t coming home was by far the hardest thing either of them had had to do.

In April, they had welcomed a brand new Dalmatian puppy into their lives, Tulip. She was an energetic dog who kept both Spot and Race on their toes. And later that month, they started the adoption process all over again. This time they waited with bated breath on news that they had been chosen to be the adoptive parents.

And now as it turned August, they hadn’t heard anything from the agency. As Spot and Race were, they tried not to let it bother them; instead focusing on the family they had surrounded themselves with, which today it included being in Central Park at an annual Newsies Get-Together (Albert’s words, not theirs).

Walking hand in hand through the park, Spot looked at his husband with a cocked eyebrow. “Where did Albert say to meet them?”

“Its up ahead.” He smiled, tugging on Spot’s hand. “Can yous at least look like you’re happy to be here?”

Spot scowled at him. “Yous woke me up from a perfectly good nap to do what, come to the tourist trap of New York for a get together?”

“Yous big baby. It’ll be fun. We’ll be here for a few hours then we can go home.” Race gave him a puppy dog look. “Wes should’ve brought Tulip - she would have loved it.”

Spot shook his head animatedly. “No, absolutely not. I would have had to keep up with you and her and that’s just too much for one day.”

“Are yous saying she’s a handful?” Race challenged. Spot had been the one all for a dog back in April while Race was trying to look at it realistically, unsure if they could handle a puppy and a newborn.

Squeezing his hand, Spot grinned. “Nope, but yous one.”

“I hate yous Spot Conlon.” Tugging his hand from Spot’s, Race walked several steps ahead of him, ignoring his pleads to come back.

Catching up with Race, Spot tugged him into his arms, gently kissing his lips. “That’s a lie and yous know it.”

“At this moment, Is hate you.” Race argued, sticking his tongue out at his husband. “Give me a few minutes and the feelings may change.”

Spot laced their hands together, tugging him in the direction they were originally going. “Love yous snookums.”

“Uh huh. I’m still mad at yous.” Race squeezed their linked hands before pointing up ahead where their friends had gathered.

Just before they met the boys, Spot tugged his hand, grinned. “Is love you Racetrack Higgins-Conlon.”

“Love you too Spot Higgins-Conlon.” Kissing him gently, they were pulled apart by the screaming of a little girl who was too excited to see her uncles.

“UNCLE SPOT, UNCLE RACE!!!!” Sammi yelled, breaking away from the group before running towards her favorite uncles.

Crashing into Race’s legs, he let out a groan before picking up their niece, giving her a big hug. “Hi Sammi! Have yous grown since we last saw you?”

“No!” She pouted. “Yous just saw me yesterday. Hi Uncle Spot!”

Spot grinned, leaning over and kissing Sammi’s check. “Hi Sammi. How are you?”

“Goods. Da said no ice cream!” She gave them both her angelic smile and batted her eyelashes. “But momma said maybe.”

“Samantha Anne, are you buttering up your uncles for ice cream?” Jack put his hands on his hips and looked at his 4 and a half year old daughter with a shake of his head. “What did I tell you?”

Sammi buried her head in Race’s chest before murmuring “no” quietly. Handing the little girl over to her dad, Race quickly sided up to Katherine who was holding Tommy with an amused look on her face. “Yous got a strong willed little girl, Plums.”

“She gets it from her daddy.” Kat smirked, as Tommy yelled hi to his uncle before leaning over for Race to take him.

Jack shook his head, pushing Sammi towards Spot. “She gets it from her momma - don’t deny it Katherine Kelly.”

“I would never!” Kat's face morphed to one of shock as she grinned at her husband. “Besides, Tommy is alllll you.”

Jack shrugged, looking at Race and Spot. “How have you guys been?”

“We JUST saw yous last night, Jack.” Spot grinned. “Nothing much has changed. We just slept in this morning and Is WAS peacefully taking a nap before someone woke me up!”

Kat smirked, rolling her eyes at Spot’s dramatics. “Let me guess, Tulip woke you up!”

“No that would’ve been my husband!” Spot glared at Race, who just laughed and shook his head.

Jack grinned. “We were waiting until yous got here but we’re going to start a pickup baseball game - yous in?”

Spot clapped his head before nodding enthusiastically, his bad mood seemingly disappearing. “Yeah! Race?”

“Nah I’ll sit this one out.” Race grinned, watching his brother and husband talk smack about the game, knowing the two would be captains of the two teams.

Kat looked over at her brother as she flung out the blankets to make a make-shift picnic area for the boys. “It’s not like you to not play baseball. What’s up?”

He hesitated, wondering if he should share their news with his sister. He and Spot had barely wrapped their own minds around the news.

Kat sat down, patting the spot beside her. “Come sit and relax a bit. You’re jumpy and it’s making me nervous.”

She looked him over. Jack and Kat had just seen the two yesterday for dinner as was per their weekly tradition. He and Spot were no different than they had been weeks prior - both way too chatty and excited about the weekend ahead. Something must have happened that morning. “Now what’s going on?”

“Spot and Is got an interesting call this morning from the agency.” He paused, giving her a nervous look.

“And?” There were some times Kat needed to prod the boys a bit before they would open up. The Newsies were a bunch that thought she would be able to decipher what they wanted to tell her just by saying a few words. Unfortunately, she had to remind them many times, that she wasn’t a mindreader.

“That’s it.” He shrugged. “They want to meet with us tomorrow mornin’. Didn’t say anything other than that.”

Kat leaned over and gave him half a hug. “That’s a good thing, right?”

“It’s just hard because we don’t know what the meeting is about.” He paused. “What if it’s just like last time - we find a mom and she decides at the last minute to keep the baby?” He bit his lip. “Spot and I can’t go through that again. It was rough, Kat.”

She let herself slip back into the memories of those few months after they had found out. March was an all around rough month for the group. Race avoided Albert because it was just too hard to see his friend as a dad to Rowan, his now 13 month old little girl. It was a difficult conversation that Race and Albert had to have but it showed Race that no matter what happens, his friends weren’t going anywhere. Still, the hardest conversation Race and Spot had to have was the one with Jack and Kat. There was some alcohol that night along with a lot of tears of pain, frustration, and heartache. Spot and Race had stayed the night and through a lot of talking, they had eventually moved on, the pain still on their hearts and the feeling of love from their closest family.

“I know, Race.” It was the first time in a long time that she didn’t know what to say. She held out her hand, in which he entangled their fingers, giving it a squeeze. “Thanks Kat.”

She watched her daughter, yelling as Jack chased her around the bases. Race watched Tommy sit on the blanket with a couple of toys. “You’ll have this one day, Race. I wish I could get it for you right now, but you and Spot will be dads and damn good ones.”

“Don’t yous dare make me cry, Katherine Estella Kelly!” Race glared at her, though a grin threatened to cross his lips.

She smiled, squeezing his hand. “You cry, I cry!”

“I don’t know what else to say, but thank you. You, Jack, and Sammi saved Spot and I in March, and I think wes still be in that dark hole if it wasn’t for yous.” Race watched the baseball game with a grin. “Spot’s not as tough as hes thinks he is but he’s tougher than Is was. Is so thankful I have him and hes by my side.”

“You two have always been each others rock. I’m sure you did the same for Spot during that time. Yous two will be fine and you’ll have a baby to watch grow up and love. Mark my words!” She nodded with a grin as Race laughed loudly.

“Yous somethin’ else Kat.” He chuckled. “But Is sure glad yous in our corner.”

“Always, Race. Always!”

-----------------------------------------------

The morning after receiving a call from their agency found Race nervously pacing their brownstone in anticipation of what was in store for them. Elizabeth, their social worker had been very vague on the reason for the meeting but assured them it was a good thing. Glancing at the clock, Race sighed seeing it was only 7:30am and their meeting wasn’t until 10am.

“Race, come sit down . . . pacing will make it worse.” Spot patted the couch, trying to coax his husband to calm down some, Tulip snoozing at his feet. “Wes got some time before we need to start heading downtown.”

Race stopped pacing long enough to look at Spot with worry. “What do yous think the meeting is about?”

“I’m not going to start speculating about the meeting.” Spot smiled sadly. “That is just going to get our hopes up and Is don’t want to do that again. We will just need to wait until we meet with Elizabeth. Come sit down and try to stop worrying. Have yous added any names to your list?”

Their name list was something they started just after the disappointment of the last failed adoption. They each had two columns, a girl’s list and a boy’s list as they hadn’t preferred a gender when they filled out their adoption paperwork.

Curling up to Spot on the couch, Race sighed when Spot started running his hand through his hair. “Is added Lucas and Eleanor to the list.”

“Those are nice names.” Spot hummed. “How wes ever going to pick a name for our future children?”

Race chuckled. “The same way we always do things, argue it out before figuring out which sounds good. Maybe the baby will already come with a name and save us some heartache.”

“Possibly. Or it could just be born and we’re stuck with learning how to take care of him or her.” Spot shrugged. “But yous know what?”

“What?” Race’s voice was thick with sleep as Spot continued to raked his fingers through his hair.

“Yous the only one I want to do this with so wes learnin’ together.” Spot placed a kiss on his forehead, sighing in contentment. “Besides, wes got a whole Newsies family that’ll help.”

Race hummed, eyes closed as he fell asleep, leaning against Spot. Spot smiled, picking up his book and continuing to read as his husband snoozed beside him. Before he knew it, Spot’s eye caught the clock and saw that it was 9:00am. Nudging Race gently, Spot smiled at the sleepy smile that crossed Race’s face. “Hey sleepyhead, it’s 9. Wes need to leave in thirty minutes, so go get freshened up.”

Pushing Race to his feet, Spot smiled endearingly at his husband. He watched him drag his still sleepy body to their bedroom before disappearing into the attached bathroom. At hearing the shower start, Spot pulled himself to his feet before disappearing down the hallway in the opposite direction.

They had a total of three bedrooms in the brownstone, one of them already occupied. The nursery was already filled, with a crib and a rocker. They had painted the room a light grey and were waiting to add knickknacks and decorations until a baby actually occupied the space. The other bedroom was technically their guest room and had a queen size bed in it and was painted a light blue but only Albert and Jack had stayed in the space when they were both too knackered to make their way home.

Standing in the doorway of the nursery, Spot sighed, sending up a prayer that their many prayers had been answered and they were getting good news within the hour. “Spottie?”

Turning towards the sound of his husband, Spot smiled. “Yous good?”

“Just taking it all in and hoping our prayers will be answered.” Spot smiled at Race, joining him at the end of the hall with a quick kiss. “Let me freshen up and wes can go.”

Changing his shirt and grabbing a pair of shoes, Spot was ready in under five minutes before joining Race in the living room.

“Ready?” Ensuring they both had their wallets, they left the brownstone hand in hand heading for the Subway. Since it opened two years ago, they both had enjoyed taking it to navigate the five boroughs of the city.

They reached the agency just before 10am, patiently waiting in the waiting room until their names were called. Race’s foot bounced as Spot held Race’s hand with a death-like vice. Their social worker, Elizabeth smiled brightly at the two of them before ushering them back to her private office.

“Well gentlemen, it’s wonderful to see you two. Hope you haven’t been nervous about this meeting all morning.” She smiled at both of them, welcoming them into her office. Motioning for them to sit, she sat at her desk with a bright smile. She was in her mid-30’s and had a way of easing them both which they both loved. She clearly cared about her job and it was evident by the many notes and letters she had displayed around her office.

Spot smiled. “It’s been a pretty calm day for us.”

“Good.” She picked up a folder with their names on it before opening it up. “So an unique situation has come up and all of us at the agency immediately thought of you two once we heard it.”

Spot and Race traded glances before motioning Elizabeth to continue. “A mother walked into the agency about a week ago, wanting to give not only her baby but a 3 year old as well up for adoption as the father had recently passed away and she was unable to care for them both. I know you both were interested in adopting a baby but like I said, this is an unique situation.”

“Can you tell us more about the family and the children?” Race’s voice was thick as he squeezed Spot’s hand.

Elizabeth shuffled through some papers before passing them a recent photo. “This is the family. As I said, the father recently passed away after a long battle with alcoholism. The mother is named Becca.” Their eyes were drawn to a dark, brown curly haired little girl with a bright smile. “That’s Eleanor or Ellie. She’s three and pretty outgoing.”

“She’s adorable.” Spot smiled at the photo. “You said that Becca is unable to care for the children - is there no family around?”

Elizabeth smiled sadly. “In these cases, we usually try to place the children with the next family member but she has no one; her parents passed away a few years ago and her husband was an only child. She has considered all her options and she wants her children to grow up with a loving family.”

“And the baby?” Race asked, his heart aching for Ellie.

Elizabeth brightened. “He was born last night; Becca sent word first thing this morning and she has already signed over her rights on him. He doesn’t have a name at the moment but that can easily be remedied.”

Both of their minds were racing with the potential of all of their dreams, hopes, wishes coming true with just one single selfless act on Becca’s part. Elizabeth must have recognized they needed some time, she stood and smiled. “Let me give you a few minutes to discuss this and I’ll be back.”

“Thanks Elizabeth.” Race’s voice was thick with emotion as they watched her walk from the room. Hearing the door shut behind her, Race looked at Spot. “Yous call.”

“Are wes really ready for this, Race?” Spot was always the level-headed one in the relationship. He gave Race a look. “Are wes ready to hand a 3 year old and a newborn?”

Race smiled, picking up Spot’s hand in his. “Whos really ready to raise children? Most parents get 9 months to figure something out but as soon as they’re handed that baby, everything they thought will go out the door. Look at Jack and Kat - most days they just wing it with Sammi and Tommy.”

“Race, can wes do this?” Spot’s voice changed from level-headedness to panic. “Are we really going to do this?”

Race leaned over and placed a kiss on his husband’s mouth. “Wes can and will do this. Is got you and yous got me. Ellie will be our daughter and we’ll get our son and figure out his name. Besides, those two kids deserve to grow up with one another. We’re not tearing those two kids apart, Spot.”

Nodding, Spot smiled, letting himself start to imagine a life with Ellie and soon-to-be-named baby boy - Spot being at the park with them, Race skipping down the sidewalk with Ellie by his side, and playdates with the Kelly children. “Wes doing this.”

Tears clouded Race’s eyes at the impact of his husband’s words. “Wes doing this.” Leaning over to kiss Spot, he grinned. “I love you, Spot Conlon.”

“Excuse you, it’s Spot Higgins-Conlon, and it has been for almost a year. Get it right Racetrack!” Kissing Race, he grinned. “I love you too, Racetrack Higgins-Conlon.”

The door creaked open signaling Elizabeth returning. They turned and smiled at her. “Well gentlemen?”

An Hour Later

Arrangements had been made and paperwork signed. The suitcase that Becca had dropped off at the agency was back at their brownstone, unpacked in the guest room, well now Ellie’s room. They were on their way to meet Ellie and her newborn baby brother at the hospital. They had opted not to meet Becca but their love story and a photo of them were being shared with her.

Race bounced on his toes as they stopped at a crosswalk, causing Spot to laugh at him, tugging on their entangled hands. “Race, you’ve got to calm down. You don’t want to scare Ellie do you?”

“Spottie, every single one of our wishes, dreams, and hopes is coming true right now. How are you not more excited?” Race exclaimed, pulling on their hands to cross the street.

Spot grinned. “I’m excited but I’m better at keeping it internal. I’m sure I’ll have my freakout later on tonight when the kids are put to bed and we’re alone.”

Stopping in front of the entrance to the hospital, Spot squeezed Race’s hand. They had been directed to go on up to the 5th floor and tell the nurse at the nurse’s station who they were. They’d be directed to a private room where Elizabeth would meet them and introduce them to Ellie and the baby.

Entering the private room, Race tugged Spot into a hug. “Yous ready for this?”

“Isn’t it a little late for you to ask me that?” Spot smirked, Race laughing. “But yes, Is ready. Yous ready?”

Race cocked his eyebrow, the excitement dancing in his eyes. “Isn’t it obvious? By the way, what do yous want to be called?”

“What do you mean?” Spot paused, not understanding what Race was asking. They had had many conversations about raising children over the past ten months but that one caught him off guard.

Race cupped Spot’s cheeks before kissing him softly. “Papa, daddy, dad, da . . . what do you want Ellie and baby boy to call you?”

“She will probably call us whatever she wants, including Spot and Race.” Spot shrugged. “All I want for her to know is that we love her and we’re going to care for her. I don’t care what she calls us.”

A quiet knock on the door caused them part from the intimate embrace they were in. Race grabbed Spot’s hand in his, giving it a quick squeeze before calling out “come in.” Nerves and excitement fluttered through both of them.

Elizabeth gently pushed open the door, giving them a small smile before holding her hand out. A tentative little hand grasped it before appearing in the door. Ellie was dressed in a pink dress, her hair pulled up in an elegant ponytail, and she was holding a stuffed dog in one hand while her thumb was in her mouth. She looked up shyly at the two men in the room. Race let go of Spot’s hand, sitting on the floor with a smile. “Hi Ellie.”

“Hi.” She whispered, still clutching onto Elizabeth’s hand.

Spot joined his husband on the floor giving the little girl a bright smile. “Hi Ellie. Is Sean and this is Antonio.”

She nodded, looking at Elizabeth with her big brown eyes. “What’s your doggie’s name?”

“‘Pot.” She smiled hesitantly, taking her thumb out of her mouth, before holding her dog out. “Momma gave me him.”

Spot nodded. “Hes a cute doggie.”

She nodded, hesitantly letting go of Elizabeth’s hand before joining them on the floor. She eyed them carefully before sadly smiling. “Are yous gonna be my new daddys?”

Race was at a loss of what to say. Noticing the hesitation, Spot slowly nodded. “If that’s alright with you?”

“Brother comin’ too?” She asked, looking between the two of them. “I no go if he don’t.”

Spot grinned at her protectiveness of her brother and nodded. “Of course he’s comin’ too. What’s his name?”

Shrugging her shoulders, her eyes went to her doggie. “Dunno . . . none yet.”

For only meeting the two a few minutes ago, she was surprisingly out-going and engaging. But then again, Elizabeth had mentioned that during the initial meeting. “What should wes name him?”

Ellie looked up at them with excitement in her eyes. “Ellie.”

Gasping, Race shook his head. “Wes can’t call him Ellie. Wes already got an Ellie and there can’t be two Ellie’s. Yous silly.”

“No yous silly.” She giggled, either men never hearing a sweeter sound in their lives. Putting her finger to her chin, she tilted her head in thought. “Is dunno what wes call brother.”

Silence filled the room, until she stood, hands on her hips, giving both men a look. “Yous gonna be our daddies?”

“Is that alright, Ellie?” Spot hesitated, watching the girls face for any clues she was uncomfortable or upset by the thought.

She sighed, moving to sit in Race’s lap, surprising him. “Momma left. She promised me and brother that yous love us but Is dunno.”

“We will love yous and your brother more than anything.” Race smiled as she tilted her head back to look at him. “Yous safe with us.”

“Okay . . . . yous my new daddies.” She paused, handing her doggie to Spot. “But what Is call you?”

“How about yous call us whatever you wants?” Spot told her as she reached for his hand. “What do you want to call us?”

Putting her finger to her mouth, she pondered for a few moments. “Is called my daddy, daddy so no. Yous my special daddies. Can Is think about it?”

“Sure. Yous tell us what you want to call us, okay?”

She grinned at Spot and Race before nodding. “Okay. Do yous want to meet my brother?”

The three looked over at Elizabeth who had tears in her eyes, watching the three interact for the last 30 minutes. “Would you like me to go get him?”

“Sure. Do you mind if Elizabeth goes and gets him, Ellie?” Race asked, making sure the little girl was comfortable with them.

Ellie smiled brightly. “Pease?”

Elizabeth left the three in the room as Ellie turned to Spot and Race. “Whats your names?”

“I’m Sean, or Spot as my friends call me.” Spot smiled as her eyes brightened.

“HEY! Just like my doggie!” Ellie dissolved into giggles as she connected the dots, causing both Spot and Race to laugh alongside her.

A moment later after Race caught his breath, he smiled at the still giggling girl. “I’m Antonio or Race as my friends call me.”

Nodding, Ellie paused, committing those names to memory. “Race and Spot. And Ellie and baby brother.”

“How are wes doing so far, Ellie?” Spot whispered to the girl, as her eyes went wide at the question. “Good.”

“Good!” Race echoed, looking over her head at Spot who had a big smile on his face. “Guess what Ellie?”

“What?”

“Wes have a real doggie at home. You’ll get to meet her later on tonight.” Race whispered as her eyes went wide before looking between Spot and Race.

“Really?”

They both nodded, smiling at the three year old. “What’s the doggie’s name?”

“Tulip. She’s a dalmatian.” Spot told her. “Do you know what a dalmatian is?”

Shaking her head, her thumb was in her mouth again. “It’s the spotted dog that is often with firemen.”

“Oh, spottie doggie.” She smiled brightly. “Will she like me?”

Race gasped at the question before nodding enthusiastically. “I’m sure she will love you, Ellie, just like we do!”

The opening of the door caught their attention. Ellie gasped seeing the blanket in Elizabeth’s arms. Staying seated in Race’s lap, her hands moved to her mouth as she watched Elizabeth put her baby brother in Spot’s arms. He was dressed in a simple white onesie with a blue blanket tucked around him, his brunette hair full on display. “Hi brother.”

Spot and Race both melted as she calmed down in the presence of her little brother. They both took in the new baby scent he was currently sporting as Spot adjusted the little boy in his arms.

“He’s little.” Ellie whispered, smoothing down his wild brown hair.

Race had to hold back the tears as he saw his family complete with a baby in Spot’s arms for the first time. “He is little, Ellie.”

“What should wes call him, Ellie?” Spot cleared his throat at seeing the same thing Race saw - their children - for the first time.

Tilting her head, she paused before throwing her hands up. “Ben!”

Race and Spot locked eyes, mulling it over in their minds. “Benjamin was on the list.”

“Benjamin Jackson Higgins-Conlon.” Spot annulled, looking at Race for confirmation.

They both looked over at Elizabeth who was already writing it down. “Sounds good. Also, we discovered Eleanor doesn’t have a middle name. Would you like to give her one?”

Spot raised an eyebrow in Race’s direction, already knowing what he would say and he should’ve bet him $100 bucks when the name came out of Race’s mouth.

“Let me get this paperwork processed and you four can go home in about an hour or so, does that sound good?”

Nodding, she left the room, leaving the four of them together for the first time. “Ours family, Spot.”

“Ours family, Race. Do you want to hold Benjamin?” He glanced at Ellie who was very comfortable in Race’s lap with a smile. “Can Race hold brother?”

Nodding her head, she stood watching Ben transfer to Race before plopping down in Spot’s lap. “You comfy little one?”

“Yup! Yup!” She giggled as his fingers found her sides tickling her. “Stop Papa Stop!”

Spot’s eyes went wide hearing her call him Papa, a warm feeling spreading across his body. He didn’t have a preference before but now that she’s dubbed him Papa, he couldn’t imagine a better name. “Is that my name now?”

“If yous want!” She lisped, eyes going wide at the slip of the name. “Papa?”

“Yes Ellie?”

She snuggled deeper into his embrace, sighing in content. “Is like you and Race.”

“We like yous too, Ellie and yous brother as well.” Locking eyes with Race, he grinned. “Now what’s Race’s name gonna be?”

Putting her finger to her lips, causing Race and Spot to internally sigh at the adorableness, she sighed loudly. “I dunno . . . but let mes think.”

Silent filled the room, Spot and Race looking between their two children in amazement at how their lives had suddenly changed, for the better, in just a matter of hours.

Elizabeth knocked on the door before slipping into the room with a folder of paperwork. She smiled at the four. “Here’s all the paperwork, you four are ready to go. They just discharged Benjamin.”

“Is there anything else we need to know?” Spot helped Ellie stand before getting off the floor. He grinned at Race’s panicked face of how he was supposed to get up with Benjamin in his arms. Spot took him from Race’s arms allowing Race to stand up.

Looking at the family, Elizabeth nodded. “Do you have all the essentials that you’ll need for the first couple of days? Diapers, clothes, bottles, etc?”

Race and Spot looked at each other. “We have cloth diapers, we made sure we had those. As for clothes, we have a few things, not too many. We have old glass bottles from a friend.” Kat had given them all of Tommy’s glass bottles as soon as he was done with them so they had plenty.

“I will bring some additional clothes in the morning so that you two don’t have to rush out right away. We’ll plan a home visit in the next week or two just to ensure all is going well.”

And with that, the four were released from the hospital and started to make their way home as a family of four for the first time.

A Week Later

To say that Race and Spot were exhausted would be an understatement but they were the happiest they had been in a long time.

Ellie had slowly gotten adjusted to the Higghins-Conlon household and had immediately fallen in love with Tulip. The puppy was often a shadow to Ellie as she followed her around the brownstone. When they would go to bed at night, Tulip was often curled up at the end of Ellie’s bed, keeping a watchful eye on the little girl.

Benjamin was a really quiet baby, often only crying when he had a dirty diaper or needed to be fed. He had dark blue eyes that often would watch his dads and sister with mild interest.

“Da!” Ellie screeched, running into the living room with Tulip clipping her eyes in excitement. After several hours in the house, Ellie had started calling Race ‘da’ and it warmed his heart as it was what he would call his own dad before his untimely death.

Race grinned watching the little girl fall to the ground as Tulip leaped over and started licking her face, a string of giggles erupted from the little girl. “What’s happening, Ellie?”

“Tulip . . . licking . . . me.” She gasped out over the giggles and licks from the puppy. Snapping his fingers, Race smiled watching the dalmatian bound over to his side, nuding his hand for a pet.

The little girl’s chest heaved from the giggles as she took a deep breath before looking around the room. “Where Papa?”

“Papa went to the store to grab some stuff, since a certain little miss likes pasta so much!” He gave her a goofy look. “He’ll be back soon. Besides, we’ve got some friends coming over to meet you.”

“Hes didn’t bring me?” Her lip wobbled at the thought of Papa leaving her behind.

They had invited Jack, Kat and the kids over for lunch that day. They hadn’t spoken to any of their friends since they got the kids, opting to settle into a routine before inviting their friends into their new family. No one knew they were parents, much less to a three year old and a newborn.

The biggest thing that had awed Race and Spot was how much of Ellie’s personality had blossomed since they brought her home. They had anticipated her being reserved and quiet but the girl had been so out-going and loud and fun. They learned really quickly that she loved to be loud and giggly and absolutely spoke her mind. She had a sassy side, which went well with Race’s sarcasm. They hadn’t left the house too much but she did enjoy going on little field trips to the market or bakery with them both.

Opening his arms to Ellie, she darted in them as he pulled her to his lap. She laid her head on his chest. “Awww Ellie yous were havin’ so much fun with Tulip that he left yous here. Is sorry that he didn’t take you.”

The little girl yawned, signaling it was almost time for a nap. Race rubbed her back as she wiped at her eyes. “Are yous tired?”

Humming a little, he continued to rub her back, feeling her boy grow heavy in his arms. Standing up, he made his way to her purple room; she asked if they could paint it a few days of being in the home. Race and Spot were only too happy to oblige her so the room had been painted a few days ago. Placing her gently in the middle of her bed, he turned on her night light before closing the door gently. He peaked in on Benjamin who was in the middle of his crib sound asleep, snoring softly.

Plopping down on the couch, Race’s eyes darted around the room. Their house had become a child and baby haven in the last week. Toys were in two baskets lined up along the wall, blankets were thrown on the floor haphazardly and pacifiers could be found on a table and the kitchen counter. Bottles were drying on the counter along with a canister of baby formula. A load of laundry was done almost everyday between Benjamin and Ellie’s clothes alone. When they had gotten Ellie’s stuff from Becca, there were very few play things for the little girl. Spot announced a trip to the toy store, where the little girl was stunned by the sheer amount of toys. Several things come home, including a baby doll, a baby stroller, and a play kitchen and many books, which they had learned the little girl loved being read to, all of which was in her room. They had added children’s books to their bookshelf in the living room that were often read before putting the two to bed.

Hearing the door open, Race smiled tiredly at Spot. “They’re both down for naps.”

“Way to go Super Da!” Spot grinned, walking into the kitchen to put the three bags away.

Pushing himself to his feet with a grunt, Race walked to the kitchen. “Ellie was upset yous didn’t take her.”

“She was playing with Tulip.” Spot frowned, putting the pasta in the cupboard. “Is didn’t think she wanted to go.”

Race nodded. “That’s what I told her. But she curled up in my lap and proceeded to go to sleep. I figured it was about naptime.”

“That’s what getting up at 5:30am will do to yous.” Spot grinned. They quickly found out Ellie was an early riser and was up every morning between 5:30 and 6:00am, after going to bed at 8pm.

Race leaned over and kissed Spot. “Is knows. I could go for a nap myself.”

“Jack and Kat should be here any time.” Spot gave his husband a look. “Is excited to see them and meet the kids.”

Race nodded. “Wes should probably clean up some. I mean it does look like a tornado went through.”

Spot nodded. “Yous take the living room and Is take the kitchen?”

They split up, each engrossed with their own task. Lunch would be simple, make your own sandwiches with chips and fruit. All the prep work had been done earlier that morning as breakfast was being made - Race making pancakes while Spot cut up the fruit, Ellie singing a song and dancing in the living room while Benjamin was in his bassinet with a pacifier.

Collapsing on the couch, the two laced hands while throwing their heads back against the back of the couch. “Think wes can get a catnap in?”

Pausing to think, Race heard the gentle knock on the door before giving Spot a look. “Fate would say no. Let’s go. Ours company is here.”

Race pushed himself off the couch, walking to the front door letting Jack, Kat and the kids in. “Hi guys, come on in!”

“UNCLE RACE!!!!” Sammi screeched, jumping into his arms with enthusiasm, causing Race to laugh.

“Hi Sammi. Is missed you.” He gave her a big hug, swaying side to side.

Spot pushed himself off the couch, walking over before greeting Kat and Jack with a smile. “Where’s Tommy?”

“My parents wanted him for the day and we were all too happy to oblige” Kat smiled before giving Spot a hug as he pulled Sammi away from Race. Tulip was sitting at their feet, waiting for some attention. Sammi’s eyes went wide at the puppy before pushing away from Spot so she could pet her.

Jack gave his brother and brother-in-law a look, observing that something was different between the pair. Pulling Race into a hug, nothing was physically different, except his eyes were a little more tired than they had been a week ago. Kat was subtly picking up the difference between the two men as well.

“Uncle Race?” Sammi’s voice pulled each person out of their own thoughts as she pointed behind her. “Whys there toys?”

Jack and Kat’s eyes went wide at their daughter’s question as they looked at Race and Spot with grins. “The meeting at the agency!”

“What meeting?” Jack asked, looking between his wife and his brothers.

Spot shook his head, looking at Race. “Of course yous told Kat. You forgot to mention that Racer.”

“Let’s all go sit down in the living room and we’ll explain everything.” Race said, grabbing Spot’s hand before settling on one couch while Jack, Kat, and Sammi settled on the other. “Sammi yous can play with the toys if you want.”

Watching the almost 5 year old walk over to the two baskets of toys, Race and Spot grinned before turning to their brother and sister who had obvious questions about what had happened in the last week. “Alright, what do you want to know?”

“Obviously, the agency meeting went well.” Kat started, lacing her own hand with her husband’s. “And you have a child that you didn’t tell anyone about.”

Race nodded. “Wes wanted an opportunity to get into some kind of routine before bringing our family and friends over. Yous the first to know.”

“Where are they?” Jack asked looking around the living room as Race and Spot chuckled. Spot’s ears perked up as they heard a sound from the nursery.

“About to get up from a nap.” Spot said, squeezing Race’s hand. “Can you get a bottle ready?”

Race nodded as Spot disappeared down the hallway. He made quick work of changing Benny’s diaper before giving him a kiss on the cheek. “Yous ready to meet your aunt and uncle, Benny?”

He simply cooed as Spot picked him up from the changing table before walking into the living room. Race was waiting for him with a bottle and a burp cloth, grinning brightly at his husband and son. “Jack, Kat, Sammi, we’d like to introduce you to Benjamin. Benny, these are your aunt Kat and uncle Jack, and your cousin, Sammi.”

“Oh, Race, Spot.” Kat smiled brightly seeing Spot hold the newborn.

“Want to do the honors, Aunt Kat?” Race grinned, watching Kat’s head bob up and down in acknowledgement. Spot maneuvered Benny to Kat’s awaiting arms before Race handed her the bottle and burp cloth. “Oh hi little man. Aren’t you a handsome little one?”

Sammi wandered over and looked at the baby in her mum’s arms. “Baby?”

“This is uncle Race and uncle Spot’s baby, Sammi. Remember we talked about it a while ago?” Kat explained, as Jack picked her up and put her on the couch next to them.

“He’s little.” Sammi whispered, carefully reaching over and touching his hand.

Jack smiled. “Yous were that little too when yous were born. Now lookacha. Yous a big girl.”

“Uh huh.” She didn’t take her eyes off of the little boy, merely watching Kat feed him. “He’s cute.”

“Thanks Sammi. We think so too.” Race grinned, excited for the high praises from the almost 5 year old.

Jack grinned at his wife before turning to his brothers. “Benjamin?”

Race nodded. “He wasn’t named when we got him and we made a whole list. His full name is Benjamin Jackson Higgins-Conlon but we’re still experimenting with nicknames, Benny being the most popular at the moment.”

Jack paused, the middle name hitting him. “Jackson?”

“Yous didn’t think we’d honor yous Jack in our son?” Spot grinned, watching Jack’s mind catch up. “Everything yous done for us, Jackson was always going to be a middle name.”

Race smiled. “Spot was the one that suggested it and I just went with it.”

“I’m honored you two. Thank you.” Race and Spot traded looks.

Race nodded. “Of course, there’s no other person we would want our son to be named after.”

Silence descended over the living room, Jack watching Kat talk quietly to Benny as he drank his bottle, Spot and Race watching the two. Squeezing his hand, Race tilted his head towards the second bedroom. “It sounds like a little miss is up.”

“Want to get her?” Spot asked grinning at Race as he pushed himself up from the couch.

Kat’s head snapped up at their quiet conversation. “Little miss?”

“Yous see, Kat.” Race disappeared down the hallway, pushing open the door he had closed an hour ago. “Hi Ellie. Did yous have a good nap?”

Yawning loudly, she shook her head. The only time the girl was quiet was right before bed or right after getting up. She took some time to adjust to being awake. “Shall we put your hair up in a ponytail?”

“Uh huh.” She yawned again, sitting up in her bed. Race grabbed a hair tie before quickly putting her hair up in a messy ponytail. “My brother, sister and their little girl are here Ellie and they’re excited to meet you.”

Ellie’s eyes went wide. “A little girl?”

“Yes. She’s a bit older than you but she’s really nice. Her name is Sammi.” Race explained, picking up Ellie in his arms.

She put her finger to her lip. “Is nervous.”

“It’s okay to be nervous. You can stay by papa and me until you’re okays. Okay?”

She nodded, laying her head on his shoulder. “Okay. Love yous da.”

The first time Ellie had told them she loved them, both Spot and Race had waited until she was asleep before losing it in their bedroom. They both cried many tears of happiness and relief that the little girl was settling in. They hadn’t heard anything so sweet outside of their own wedding vows.

“Loves you too Ellie.” He rubbed a hand down her back. “You want to go out and see papa and Benny?”

She nodded against his shoulder as he turned off the light in the room before walking down the hallway into the living room. Sitting on the couch next to Spot, Ellie snuggled against his shoulder, Spot making a face at the little girl to get a giggle out of her. “Yous silly papa.”

“I know Ellie.” He leaned in close to her. “Can Is introduce you to some people?”

“Da said aunt and uncle.” She paused, looking over her shoulder at the unfamiliar people. “And as little girl.”

Spot grinned at Race, who merely nodded. “That’s right. Can Is introduce you?”

“Sure.” She pushed herself away from Race’s embrace before climbing over to Spot’s lap with a giggle.

“Ellie, this is your aunt Kat, uncle Jack, and cousin Sammi. Jack, Kat and Sammi, this is our daughter, Eleanor Kate Higgins-Conlon, Ellie for short.” Spot proudly introduced them to the final member of their family.

Ellie looked at her papa with a mock glare. “Yous used my full name.” She pointed her finger at him with a grin.

“Is sorry baby. But they want to know your full name but they now know you like Ellie.” Spot apologized, causing Kat and Jack to laugh.

She giggled. “Oh! Okays. Hi!”

“Hi Ellie.” Jack smiled as she gave him a little wave.

“Hi Unka ‘Ack.” She chirped, giggling at his name coming out of her mouth. “That my brother, Aunt Kat.”

Jack’s eyes went wide. “Benny is your brother?”

“Yea.” She got down from Spot’s lap before walking over to lean on the couch watching Kat feed Benny. “He’s little.”

“He is little.” Sammi said, giving the little girl a look. One of Race’s fears was that Sammi and Ellie wouldn’t get along with one another, which he told Spot that would break his heart, his best girl and daughter not getting along.

“Hey Sammi?” Race calls over looking at his niece. “Ellie loves coloring and elephants just as much as you do.”

Sammi smiled brightly at her uncle. “Ellie, would yous like to play?”

Ellie looked at her papa and da before slowly nodding her head. Sammi held out her hand, leading Ellie over to the baskets of toys. Race held his breath watching the two interact for a few minutes before relaxing as Ellie relaxed. “See you had nothing to fear.”

Shooting Spot a look, Race smiled. “Yous were right but Is still worried - the need to have my best girl and daughter get along is important.”

A throat cleared as the two turned to Jack and Kat, who just finished burping Benny. She adjusted him in her arms so that he could see his dads and sister. “So want to clue us in?”

Race laughed at Jack’s comment. “So we went into the meeting last week and they had an unique situation. A mother had come into the agency wanting to give up her 3 year old, Ellie, and a newborn. The agency immediately thought of us so we went in and obviously fell in love with both. Benny didn’t have a name at the time so we had to come up with one before they let us leave and we found out Ellie didn’t have a middle name so we had to come up with one as well.”

“Wait, Kate wasn’t her given middle name?” Kat had finally put two and two together causing Race and Spot to laugh before shaking their heads. “No. Kate was always going to be our daughter’s middle name just like Jackson was going to be our son’s. It just so happened Ellie’s mom didn’t give her a middle name so we gave her one.”

Tears clouded Kat’s eyes, causing Jack to reach over and grab Benny from her arms. She stood, walked over to the sofa where she plopped onto Race’s lap before giving him and Spot a joint hug. “You two!”

“Aww Kat don’t cry.” Race patted her back. “You did say on our wedding day that Kate would be a good middle name to thank you for everything you’ve done.”

She sniffled, swiping at her eyes. “But I didn’t think yous actually do it.”

“Yous aunt Kat is silly Benny.” Jack whispered, laughing at his wife’s antics. His eyes darted between the scene on the couch and the two girls giggling together while playing with Tulip.

Kat’s eyes went to his. “Excuse me, Mr. I almost shed tears at Benny’s middle name being Jackson. You don’t have any room to talk.”

“I didn’t shed tears.” Jack holding Benny protectively against Kat’s words with a grin.

“Almost, being the keyword there Jack, almost.” Kat rolled her eyes. “Well let me be the first to say congratulations to you two. They’re both amazing and a welcome surprise into our makeshift family.”

Jack smiled, nodding along with his wife’s words. “They’re precious, Race and Spot. And yous got your hands full with Ellie.”

“The sass, we know. She actually has a really good grasp of sarcasm so Race has been getting a kick outta that.” Spot raised an eyebrow at his husband. “There’s been times she had toed the line but Race has brought her back before she could get herself in trouble.”

“Other than that, how’s it been going? One is tough enough, not to mention two.” Jack asked, thoroughly enjoying the baby snuggles from Benny.

The two traded looks. “Is never been more tired in my life but Is more happy now than before. Everyday wes learnin’ something new about the two of them. But the best thing in when wes get them outta their rooms in the morning and their smiles. Ellie is usually singing, dancing, laughing, nothing but joy from that girl and Benny is the chillest baby ever.”

Spot squeezed Race’s hand at his admission. “Ellie loves to be involved in whatever we’re doing, even if it’s giving Benny a bath. She just wants to be around us and wants to know where the other went if they’re not at home.”

“Have you gone out as a family of four yet?” Kat asked, raising an eyebrow, knowing how much an ordeal it was when her and Jack did it for the first time.

Spot shook his head. “No, wes haven’t made that venture yet. Usually one of us will take Ellie out and pop down to the market or bakery but the four of us haven’t gone out yet. Wes taking it day by day.”

“When are you telling everyone else?” Jack stood, walking over to the bassinet, laying down the sleeping baby, checking on the girls before sitting back down.

Race grinned. “Yous know the monthly Newsies get-togetha at Jacobi’s? Wes bringing the kids to that and just going to introduce the rest of the family then.”

“Oh you’re going to have your hands full between the two kids and the boys.” Jack laughed. “Might have to attend just for that chuckle.”

Sammi looked over her shoulder at her dad laughing. She left Ellie playing, walking over to her uncles. Race grinned at Sammi, still laughing at Jack, before pulling her onto his lap. “What’s up Sammi?”

“Yous a daddy, uncle Race and uncle Spot!” She smiled brightly. “Is like Ellie and Benny.”

Race hugged his niece, a big smile on his face. “Yous don’t know how happy that makes me, Sammi. Is hoping you and Ellie would get along.”

“Can shes be my sister?” Sammi asked, tears pooling in Race’s eyes at her simple question, as he locked eyes with Kat, who had tears in her own eyes.

Hugging her tightly, Race tried to swallow the emotions that had crept up before nodding. “Of course, shes can be your sister. But she’s gonna live with Uncle Spot, Benny, and me, okay?”

“Okay! But she can come overs and play?” Sammi asked, giving her uncle a questioning look.

“Of course, Sammi. I love you, my girl.” Race kissed her cheek, as she turned around a planted a wet kiss on his cheek.

“Love you too Uncle Race!”

Ellie stood up and walked over to Kat with a smile. “Aunt Kat?”

Katherine’s eyes went wide at hearing her niece say her name. “Yes, Ellie?”

“Can yous do my hair?” She pointed to the messy ponytail Race had done. She grinned. “Da says yous can teach him.”

Kat laughed, nodding. “Yes, I will teach da and papa how to do your hair, sweet girl.”

Picking her up, she put her on the couch so she faced Jack, who gave her a silly face, causing her to laugh loudly.

Race and Spot both relaxed with some of their family knowing. It was amazing to see how Sammi quickly adopted Ellie as her sister and they spent the rest of the afternoon watching the two girls giggling and interacting with one another. Jack and Kat fought over who would hold Benny, finally Spot picking up the baby to protect him from his aunt and uncle. Race and Spot sat back and watched the newly dubbed aunt and uncle interact with their niece and nephew, smiling that all had fallen into place, just like Kat had promised.

8,992 words, 23 pages - this is the longest section of The Many Adventures of Sammi and Race! Please let me know what you think. Originally, I didn’t intend for them to adopt two at the same time but my characters had a different idea!

#The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race #Spot Conlon #Racetrack Higgins #Newsies #newsies fan fiction #writing #dancerlittle006 #jack kelly #Katherine Kelly #Sammi Kelly

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prettyinlimegreenboots · 4 years

Note

aaaand from the 5 word prompt one: “anything, just call me, okay?”

He had heard from several of their friends that something was up with Albert. He had worked all day and through the many texts, he had pieced things together. Albert and Finch were on the outs again - they were the famous on-again/off-again couple of the group.

Stopping at the grocery store, he picked up the usual - ice cream, Coke, some kind of cake and vodka - before making his way to Albert’s apartment.

He had been given a spare key several years ago when Albert had locked himself out one too many times. Climbing the stairs, he took a breath, slipping the key into the lock. Slowly pushing open the door, he blinked several times, taking in the scene within the apartment.

Music was blaring loudly (Fallout Boy from the sounds of it) while the sounds of the electric mixer was beating something in a metal bowl. Stepping cautiously into the house, he closed the door behind him, peaking into the kitchen.

Albert had a pink apron on covering his hoodie and sweatpants from the puffs of flour popping up from the mixer. Trying not to scare him, he gently set the stuff on the counter before making his presence known.

“Hey!” He leaned over so that Albert would see him standing there.

Shutting off the mixer, Albert’s eyes were drawn to the doorframe where he stood. “Hey. Were we hanging out tonight?”

“No but I figured you might need a friend.” He shrugged, putting his hands in his pockets and giving Albie a concerned look. “I got several text messages about you today which caused me to be worried.”

A long drawn out sigh came from Albert as he looked towards the ceiling. “I told them not to reach out to you.”

“Why?” He tried to keep the hurt from his voice. He and Albert had been best friends for the last 18 years. It hurt to see Albie in any kind of pain.

Albert motioned to the bag. “What did you bring?”

“You’re not dodging the question so easily.” He motioned to the bag. “You tell me in exchange for what’s in the bag. Why didn’t you want them to reach out to me?”

Leaning against the cupboard, Albie sighed again. “You’ve got your own things to worry about. I know how stressed you’ve been with work and your own relationship. I didn’t want to add to that.”

“You know me better than that. Anything, you call me, okay? No matter what’s going on in my life, I’m always there for you, alright?”

Albie nodded, head hung. “What’s in the bag?”

“I’ve cream, vodka, Coke, and cake.” He showed the contents of the bag to Albert, as a smile crept across his face. “Now who’s head do I have to crack in order to make up for putting you in a mood?”

Albert quickly shook his head. “No one, Race. I think Finch and I are done. And I’m sad but I think it might be a good thing.”

Pulling Albie into a hug, Race squeezed him tight, resting his head on top of Albert’s. “Anything, you call me, alright?”

“Alright.” Albie agreed. “Now you’re too overdressed for this - go change and then it's movie night with ice cream and cake.”

Moving to the bedroom where Race kept some clothes, he smiled at Albie. “You’ll find your happily ever after someday, Albie. Until that, I’ll be here for you.”

“Thanks Race. Now go get change. I’m going to throw these cookies in the oven then we’ll pick a movie.”

It was always hard dealing with a broken heart but at least his best friend was around to ease the pain.

#newsies fan fiction #newsies #prompts #wide eyed wonderer #racetrack higgins #albert dasliva #dancerlittle006

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

Important Decision & New Baby Smells

April 21, 1905

The plan was set. Jack and Race had set it up weeks ago. Race and Spot would take Sammi for a long weekend, giving Kat and Jack the opportunity for a little alone time before baby #2 would arrive. However, that plan went right out the window the afternoon Race had picked Sammi up after his shift from the hotel.

As soon as Race had gotten home, the phone had rang. They had moved to a brownstone closer to the Kelly’s and had looked at the opportunity as a new chapter in their lives. “Hello?”

“Racer, the baby’s comin’.” Jack panted as if he had run a marathon causing Race to grin.

After reassuring Jack that Sammi was fine, they settled in for a long weekend of niece/uncle time. Spot was at work, thus leaving the four year old with her favorite uncle. “What do you wants to do Sammi?”

Holding her favorite doll in her arms, the little girl grinned brightly at her uncle. “Ummmms . . .” Her new favorite word when she was stalling or just trying to figure out what to do. “Hows about da park?”

Soon they found themselves in the park, Sammi singing some song and hopping from foot to foot while Race held her hand. “Whatcha singin’ Sammi?”

She shrugged, continuing to sing the song. Race listened, trying to place it but came up empty. She led them to a bench in the middle of Central Park. Settling herself on the bench, her head whipped from side to side taking in the comings and goings of the park. “Sammi, yous gonna be a big sister.”

With a shake of her head, she looked at her uncle. “Nope. Babys not comin’.”

“Da told mes otherwise.” Race looked down at his niece. “Yous gonna be a great big sister.”

She bit her lip, a tell that something was bothering her, which Race picked up immediately. “What’s wrong? Aren’t yous excited?”

Sammi shrugged again, standing up next to her uncle before plopping on his lap. “Is not a good sister.”

“Oh Sammi.” Race whispered, hugging the girl tightly to his chest. “Yous learn how to be a good sister. Yous don’t instantly knows how to do that. Yous uncles, mum, and dad wills helps you. Is that why yous worried?”

Putting a finger to her lip, she slowly nodded. “A year from now, yous be a great big sister. And yous baby brother or sister wills adore yous. Just watch.”

The two sat in silence for a bit, watching the action within the park. “What do yous want, Sammi? A brother or sister?”

Again, she shrugged. “Is never had a brother or a sister until I met yous dad, Sammi. Your dad and mum are mys siblings and theys pretty good at its.”

“Yous help?” She whispered, her body growing heavy with sleep.

Race smiled, running a hand through her hair. “Yes, Is and Uncle Spottie will help you, Is promise.”

Picking her up, he made his way through the park, the rhythm of his walk causing the girl to fall asleep on his shoulder. Soon the two arrived at home, Race putting Sammi in their guest room, closing the door slightly behind him. Making his way to the kitchen, he cleaned up the remaining dishes from that morning's breakfast.

The task gave him time to think - it had been five months since Spot had proposed and they were no closer to planning a wedding than five months ago. They both knew they wanted to get married but they had no idea where to start. Kat had tried to get them to sit down and plan but that had quickly gone out the window. They had talked about eloping and not making’ a big deal out of it. Both Spot and Race had flown by the seat of their pants for much of their lives and it seemed they would take that into their marriage as well.

The running of the water knocked him out of his thoughts just as the door to the brownstone opened and a grinning Spot entered, kicking his boots off before sighing loudly. “Honey, Is home.”

Shutting off the water, Race met him at the door with a kiss before grabbing the bag that was in his hand. “Sammi’s asleep in the guests room. And Jack called a couples of hours ago and said the baby’s comin’”

“Hows she doin’?” Spot moved to the kitchen to grab a glass of water, leaning against the counter as Race joined him.

Shrugging noncommittally, Race shook his head. “One moment shes excited and the next shes reserved and quiets. Is think once the babys here, she’ll be betters. Shes worried she’ll be a bad big sister, and I tried to reassure her that she’ll have all of us to help her.”

“Her whole world is changin’. She’s used to having you, me, her uncles, Jack, and Kat all to herself.” Race smiled. “That girl will be fine and she’ll be a great big sister.”

The opening of the guest room door caught their attention. Race and Spot both held a chuckle at the mess of hair that Sammi was rocking. “Hey baby girl. Hows you sleep?”

Giving her uncle a glare, Sammi opted to crawl up in Spot’s lap instead of Race’s. Spot had always loved post-nap cuddles but lately, Sammi had opted for Race and not him. He would take full advantage of Race’s misstep and cuddle Sammi. “Hows you sleep, Sammi?”

“Goods.” She yawned, burrowing her head in her uncle’s chest. “Da babys comin’ Unka Pottie.”

He ran a hand down her back. “Uncle Race just told me. That’s excitin’ huh?”

Sammi shrugged, fighting back another yawn. “Is guess.”

“What do yous want to do this weekend, Sammi? Go to the zoo, maybe the park or da museum?” Spot rambled, as the little girl readjusted to being awake.

The room fell quiet. Race and Spot both grinned at once another, lacing their hands together, looking at the little girl that had been their world for the last four years. Things had changed for their little group. Albert and Marie had married in January and were expecting a baby in the summer; Finch and Elmer were on-again, this time the entire Newsies group had bets on whether they’d make it or not, and Crutchie had found a nice girl, named Molly who he was sweet on - last Race heard, they hadn’t officially become a couple, but it was nice to see his friend thinking’ of settling down.

“Jacobi’s.” Sammi had sat up, pushed her hair back, and grinned at the couple. “Can wes do Jacobi’s?”

Race looked at Spot, who merely shrugged. “Sounds good to me.”

“Sammi can you go get your shoes on?” Race asked, watching the girl hop off the couch before running to get her shoes. Kat had been teaching her how to tie her shoes and she had gotten the hang of it but still had a hard time making a knot.

Race went to get himself ready, leaving Spot with Sam. Standing in the doorway, he watched Spot explain the bunny ears and how to loop them together. “One bunny ear, two bunny ear . . .”

Grinning, Race couldn’t wait until Spot was a papa. They had talked about children and adopting, both agreeing to wait until after the wedding, whenever that would take place. Quickly getting himself ready, Race soon joined the other two in the living room, where a grinning Sammi had both of her shoes on. “Unka Race!”

“Yes Sammi?”

“Unka Pottie shows me the bunny trick.” She bounced on her toes, showing him the newly tied shoes. “A bunny ears then ‘nother one and loopy de loop ‘em togetha.”

Race shook his head, grinning at the girl. “Good jobs Sammi. Yous ready?”

Ensure they both had their wallets, they left the brownstone, their hands swinging between them while Sammi danced in front of them. Crossing a few streets, they soon arrived at Jacobi’s. Walking in the place was empty, allowing them to pick out their favorite booth. Sighing loudly, Race caught Sammi’s attention. “Whats with you little girl?”

“I miss da and mum, unka Race.” She propped her chin in her hand and gave her uncle a look. “Whens can Is see them?”

Race looked at Spot who shrugged his shoulders in response. “Is not sure, Sammi. Mum’s havin’ da baby and that mights take some time. But maybe when wes get home, wes can call ‘em.”

“Ok.” She picked up the menu, looking at the photos, as Race relaxed against Spot’s side.

The bell above the door caught their attention, but it was no one they knew. Spot and Race both smiled in the stranger’s direction before looking back at their menus. “What yous want, Sammi?”

“Nugs and fries, pease!” She exclaimed, her knees coming under her bottom, causing her to be taller in the booth.

A chuckle escaped Race’s mouth. “Yous got it girl. What to drink?”

“Ummmmmmmmm . . .” A finger to her chin, making her look like a detective, she considered her choices. “‘Pple Juice.”

“A fine choice for the lady.” Spot chuckled, pulling out a piece of paper and some crayons for her to draw while they waited for the waiter.

Race cocked an eyebrow in his fiance’s direction. “Since when do yous carry papes and crayons in yous pocket?”

“Since we have a mini Jack Kelly in ours presence.” Spot waved his hand in Sammi’s direction, provin’ a point. “Yous knows he takes her to ‘ork and lets hers draws. Says she’ll be da next prodigal child.”

The waiter came over and took their orders, soon returning bringing their drinks before leaving them alone.

Race laughed knowing he was right. “So we needs to talk.” Glancing at Sammi, ensuring she was occupied, he titled his head towards Spot. “Wedding details.”

Throwing his head back, Spot groaned. “Ugh, whys plannin’ a weddin’ so hard?”

“Wes just gotta pick a date and the rest will fall into place.” Or at least that was what Kat told Race when they met for coffee after the proposal. “So whats month work for you?”

Spot shook his head and mumbled what sounded like ‘idiot’ under his breath before lacing his fingers with Race. “Is always loved the fall. So hows about October?”

“Since wes got engaged and alls?” Race grinned. “Okay so a month is picked . . . nows a date.”

Spot grinned, squeezing Race’s hand. “Hows about October 17 - one day less thans a years bein’ engaged?”

Seeing a calendar pinned on the wall by the register, Race walked over, flipped through the calendar, chuckled to himself before walkin’ back to the booth. “Yous want to get married on a Tuesday?”

Spot shrugged. “When has wes ever done anything conventional in ours relationship? This is perfectly us.”

“True.” Race nodded, a slap happy grin sliding over his mouth. “Is good with that. Tuesday, October 17, Is marryin’ you. Now, for names, hows we doin’ that?”

Spot gave him a confused look. “Whats you mean?”

“Conlon-Higgins or Higgins-Conlon?” Race shrugged his shoulders. “Its don’t matter to mes.”

Pulling Race in for a chaste kiss, Spot shook his head. “Yous have too much time to thinks.”

“But this is what we’ll be knowns as. Is know you love your last name but Is loves Higgins just as much.” Race protested. “Wes both wants to keep ours names but combine them together.”

Spot could see why this would worry Race. He knew he had all the pros and cons about each way and had looked at all the ways it would flow. It was one of the many quirks he loved about his fiance. “Hows about we go with Higgins-Conlon?”

“Anthony “Racetrack” Higgins-Conlon has a good ring to it.” Spot grinned at his fiance, squeezing his hand, just as the waiter came back and dropped their food on the table. “Little miss, it’s time to put aways the crayons and papes.”

She pouted for a minute before realizing her chicken nuggets and fries were sitting in front of her. “Yum!”

Squeezing Race and his laced hands, Spot mouthed ‘love you’ in Race’s direction before digging into his own food.

Quietness fell over the table as the three dug into their food. Patrons came and went in the restaurant, the bell ringing over the door with each opening of the door. Just as they signaled for the check, a familiar face walked into the restaurant whistling a tune and a happy grin.

“DA!” Sammi stood up on the booth seat with a happy grin. “Unka Race it’s daddy!”

Jack heard Sammi’s yell before redirecting himself towards the booth in the back. “Well looks whats the cat drug in. Whats you doin’ here?”

Sitting next to Sammi, Jack raised an eyebrow in his brother’s direction. “Yous daughter picked this for dinner.”

Settling Sammi on his lap, he ran a hand through her hair. “Yous have a good afternoon, cara?”

“Yes! Wes went to da park and Is sleep and da, looks, Is colored.” She showed him her pape where she was doodling. “Is had fun with Unka Pottie and Unka Race.”

Jack smiled in appreciation at his two brothers. “Thank you for takin’ her.”

“Da?” Sammi waited until Jack looked at her. “Is da baby here?”

Race and Spot both raised an eyebrow in Jack’s direction, wondering the same thing. “Yes, da baby’s here. Would you like to meet the baby?”

Sammi’s head bobbled in excitement. Jack promised she could as soon as he grabbed the food they had ordered. Their check was settled just as Jack returned. “Kat’s mum with her while I ran down here. Wes were gonna call yous tonight and let you know but it’s better that I rans into yous.”

The four headed towards the brownstone, Race and Spot hanging back while Jack bustled through the door with Sammi on his heels. “Kat, wes got company.”

Though it was quiet, Race could hear the groan that escaped Kat’s mouth. “Jack Kelly yous a dead man.”

“Its your favorites, Katherine.” Jack sang back, grinning and motioning the two to sit in the living room while he escaped to their bedroom. They could hear the quiet murmuring from the room, while Sammi sat on the couch next to them.

“Unka Race?” Sammi slipped her hand into his before looking at him with wide eyes. “Is ner’ous.”

Pulling her onto his lap, Race dropped a kiss on her forehead. “Thats okay, cara. Is nervous too.”

“Yous ner’ous?” Her eyes went wide at the thought. “Whys?”

“‘Cause Is only held ones babys before.” He whispered, a faint smile on his face. “Yous know whos that was?”

Not breaking eye contact with her uncle, Sammi shook her head. “Yous. Yous was the first baby I ever held. And yous sibling will be the second. And its okays to be nervous; that means its important to yous and me and unka Pottie and mum and da.”

“Okays.” She whispered, eyes darting over to the door leading to the hallway. Her eyes went wide seeing her da, mum, and grandma standing there. “Mum, da.”

Kat brightened at the sight of her three favorite people sitting there. “Hi sweetheart. Did you have a good time with your uncles?” Crossing the room, she sat on the opposite couch as Sammi hopped down and joined her mum. “Careful. Hi Race, Spot. Thank you for watching her this afternoon.”

“Yeah.” She whispered, fingers at her mouth. She searched her mum’s face for something different but finding nothing, she cuddled into her mum’s embrace. “Wheres da baby?”

Wrapping her arms around her daughter, Kat smiled. “Look at da.”

Poppin’ her head off Kat’s shoulder, Sammi’s eyes widened at the blanket wrapped bundle. “That da baby?”

“Would you like to meet your new brother?” Kat asked, watching Jack cross the room to join them on the couch. Jack adjusted the bundle so Sammi could see the newborn who was sleeping soundly and smacking his lips. “What do you think Sammi?”

Running her index finger over his hand, she smiled watching his fingers curl around her’s. “He’s ‘ittle.”

“Yes, he’s little.” Kat squeezed her close to her side. “Yous were littler than he is.”

Eyes widened, Sammi looked around the room. “Is was ‘ittle?”

“Yes, Samantha, you were once this little.” Kat grinned, looking over her shoulder at Race and Spot. “I just heard your uncle tell you you were this little once and you were the first baby he held.”

The little girl’s head looked over at her two uncles. “Unka Race, Unka Spottie, Is got a ‘roter.”

“Yes yous do.” Race grinned, looking at the bundle in Jack’s arms. “Whats his name?”

Jack smiled at Kat and Sam before looking at Race and Spot. “Wes had a hard time tryin’ to figure out a name. The middle name was easy but the first name was hard.” He nudged Kat, letting her do the honors.

“Our son’s name is Thomas Anthony Kelly. We’re going to call him Tommy. Thomas after Jack’s da and Anthony after his uncle Race.” Kat smiled, as Race’s jaw dropped.

Tears clouded Race’s eyes as he looked at his brother and sister. “Yous didn’t has to do that.”

“We knows wes didn’t but Race, yous been there for us and wes indebted to yous.” Jack’s voice thickened with emotion. Passing the newborn to Kat, Jack crossed the room to pull Race into a hug. “Yous such a great uncle, friend . . . brother and wes want Tommy to have a great man to embody as hes growin’ up.”

Race squeezed Jack’s shoulders, more tears escaping his eyes. “Is honored, Jackie.”

“Wanna hold him?” Jack pulled back, taking his son back from Kat before settling him in Race’s arms. “What do you think, Uncle Race?”

Race’s eyes swept over the tiny human nestled in his arms. Tommy’s lips were puckered, as if he had just eaten a sour lemon, eyes tightly shut, and quiet wisps of air were released as he soundly slept. “Hi’s Tommy, Is your uncle Race. That’s your uncle Spottie over there. Wes love yous so much.” Looking over at the new parents, he shot them a watery smile. “He’s perfect. He’s gorgeous.”

Jack turned his attention to his daughter, grinning brightly as he picked her up. “So wes keepin’ him, Sammi?”

“Hes okay.” She gave her dad a look. “Will hes cry?”

Kat rolled her eyes at her daughter and husband. “He will cry sometimes but it’s just his way of letting us know he’s here. Will you help us?”

“Uh huh.” She gave her da a hug and smiled at her mum. “But can Is go to Unka Race and Uncle Potties without him?”

Kat and Jack both laughed as did both her uncles. “Already negotiating with me. This wasn’t supposed to happen for another couple of years.”

“We’ll talk about you going to Uncle Race and Spottie’s house.” Kat shook her head at her daughter.

“She’s your daughter and you can’t deny that.” Jack laughed at how similar Samantha and Kat were. “Wes in trouble with this one, though.”

Kat’s eyes widened at the thought. “Oh crap, I didn’t think about that. Especially climbing up to private boxes just to talk with pretty girls.”

“Worked for you didn’t it?” Jack raised an eyebrow, leaning over to steal a kiss from his wife. “Admit it, that’s what swept you off your feet.”

Kat’s cheeks blushed. “That might’ve had something to do with it.”

Race looked down at his nephew. “Yous parents are crazy but theys the best. Spottie and Is will be there when its too much for yous and Sammi.”

Relinquishing him to Spot’s outstretched arms, Race smiled seeing Spot hold their nephew. “Thanks for that Race. If our kids ever runs away from home, yous house is the first wes checkin’.”

Standing, Race crossed the room to pull Kat into a hug. “Congratulations, Plums. He’s precious.”

“Thanks Race.” She stepped back. “Wes was going to tell you later on tonight to tell you. Jack said you were at Jacobi’s.”

Seeing Jack, Spot, and Sammi all talking while looking at the baby, Race smiled. “Yous daughter wanted Jacobi’s.”

“Yous hidin’ something.” Despite just having a baby, Kat’s observation skills hadn’t lessened any. “You want to talk?”

He took her hand and led her into her office, closing the door behind him. “Yous the only one that wes told since we JUST decided this.”

Kat titled her head in curiosity, her finger going to her lip in concentration. “What? Spill it Racetrack.”

“SpotandIsdecidedourweddin’date.” He rushed out, eyes shut, anticipating her excitement.

Kat laughed. “How about you repeat that, this time spacin’ out your words?”

“Spot and Is decided our weddin’ date.” He could see the excitement building on Kat’s face. “October 17.”

Looking around the room, she found her calendar, a giggle escaping her mouth. “A Tuesday, Race, really?”

“Would you expect anything different?”

Kat shook her head, pulling him into a hug. “If you and Spot were any other couple, yes I’d expect something different. However, you two have never followed anyone’s path, always makin’ it your own. Why that date though?”

“It’ll be a day less than a year engaged.” Race smiled. “Spot’s words not mine. The bugger’s a little sentimental, if yous didn’t knows that.”

Kat smiled. “He continues to pleasantly surprise me.”

“Me too. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Race smiled. “I will needs yous help with all of this. Wes don’t know where wes getting married.”

She nodded, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Come by this week and I’ll help. I’ve got some good ideas that’ll be perfect for you and Spot. But you two need to figure out if you want an indoor or outdoor venue.”

Opening the door, Race stuck his head out the door, grinning at Spot. “Spot, for October, indoor or outdoor?”

Looking up from Tommy, Spot’s eyes widened. “Ummm . . . Indoor. Is Kat cathootin’ with you?”

“Of course she is.” Blowing a kiss to Spot, he closed the door again, only hearing Jack ask what was going on in October. “Indoor it is.”

Kat clapped her hands in excitement. “Come by Wednesday after work and I’ll have some options for you two.”

“Is haven’t said this lately, but thank yous Kat.” Race bit his lip. “Yous and Jack are the family neither Spot or Is had growin’ up and Is thankful yous my sister.”

Tears clouded her eyes, as she smacked his shoulder. “Quit makin’ me cry Racetrack. I’m emotional already due to Tommy but you are being too sweet. You and Spot are just as much as family as we are to you. I was so excited for you two to meet Tommy. The rest of the newsies will meet him later this week but we knew you and Spot would meet him tonight or tomorrow.”

At the sound of the door opening, Jack looked over at his wife and brother. “Do I need to pound Race for makin’ yous cry?”

“Don’t you dare Jack Francis Kelly.” Kat’s eyes glared at him. “He just said something sweet and I’m an emotional mess.”

Jack nodded. “Heard louds and clear. So Is hear yous havin’ a big party in October, on a Tuesday of all days.”

“Yea Jackie. Yous free?” Race sat on the couch and gave his brother a big grin. “‘Cause bein’ a groomsman and all yous schedule will needs to be free.”

Jack grinned. “For yous two, I’d clear the whole month if needs be. October 17 is a fine day for a weddin’.”

“A weddin’ that needs to be planned.” Spot and Race both groaned at the prospect of planning.

Jack chuckled, nodding his head in sympathy. “With Kat’s it won’ts be so bad. She’s a master of plannin’ a weddin’.”

“Thanks Jack.” Kat grinned, excited at helping plan the wedding of her brothers. “It’ll be the party of the year.”

Race shook his head. “I thoughts that was Albert’s weddin’.”

They all chuckled at that event - it was glitz and glam and very over the top but it worked well for the couple.

Spot looked between Kat and Race. “Ous weddin’ will be nothin’ like that, clear?”

Kat nodded, looking between Race and Spot. “That wedding would never fit for yous two. The simpler the better. And the actually weddin’ won’t be long - 30 minutes tops.”

“Good.” Race threw his arm over Spot’s back, grinning at the newborn and enjoying the familiar feeling of the family enveloping him. Sammi, who was playing on the floor with her doll, climbed up in Race’s lap, gave him a hug, and mumbled “love you” before snuggling his chest. Smiling at Kat and Jack, Race settled. He was in his happy place and with those he loved most surrounding him.

What do you think? Thomas Anthony Kelly is here. He will be making appearances throughout the rest of the series but the series will still focus very much on Race and Sammi as she grows older. If there’s anything you want to see, just send me a message and I’ll try to incorporate it.

But the bigger news it that their wedding is the next part of the series. I haven’t started writing it yet so if there’s ANYTHING you want to see, send me a message. I have some ideas but it will be a couple of weeks before it’s posted!

#The Many Adventures of Sammi & Race #Dancerlittle006 #newsies #fan fiction #writings #newsies fan fiction

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dancerlittle006 · 4 years

Text

Extra Extra Read All About It!

First things first, I don’t own anything related to Disney or Newsies. Second of all, it’s been a couple of years since I’ve posted anything on this site but I’ve been writing for other fandoms – Jonas Brothers & One Direction! I’ve been watching and listening to Newsies since the beginning of quarantine and this was just something I threw together. Not sure if I will continue to write in the Newsies fandom but we’ll see where this goes!

June 1901

The sun hit his face as he waited at the circulation gate. He had been deep in thought, trying to figure out what he did. His sister had stopped coming around the lodge house and he couldn’t figure out what he or one of the other newsies had done to make her stay away. Jack had still been coming around, goofing off with his boys and even his brother had been staying quiet around him.

“Papes for the newsies. Line up boy.” Came the call from Weisel. Race watched his brothers line up, grabbing their papes.

The Newsies scattered, reading the headlines, trying to figure out what white lies they would be telling that day. The headline stunk again, making it another difficult day to sell.

“Yous alright?” His shoulder was nudged, causing him to stumble forward. “Yous head up in them clouds.”

Race’s eyes went wide, looking over his shoulder. Albert was standing there with concerned eyes, looking at his best friend. “You’ve been quiet. Everything okays?”

“I’ve got things on my mind.” He shrugged. “Ivs got to figure it out first.”

Albert nodded, putting a hand on Race’s shoulder. “Is here if you need anything.”

Nodding, he went to the gate to grab his papes before heading towards the racetrack. His normal customers made small talk while he sold the paper. They asked him about the headlines before handing over the coins. Before he knew it, the bells were ringing in the noon hour just as he sold his last one.

Adjusting his hat and his cigar, he shuffled his feet away from the racetrack. Inside his mind, he didn’t realize his feet had led him directly to Jack and Katherine’s brownstone. Taking a seat on the stairs, he took off his cap and messed with his hair.

He heard the familiar clanking of the typewriter as Kat typed up her latest article. He sighed, dragging himself to his feet. Walking slowly up the stairs, he raised his hand to knock, but quickly lowered it. He did it again twice before a voice captured his attention. “Doors opened, Race. Come on in.”

He jumped hearing her voice. Seeing her standing at the window grinning, he pushed a smile to his face before opening the door. Hesitating, he paused before walking in.

“Didn’t know you were coming over today.” She smirked, his head snapping up to look at her.

Shutting the door behind him, the smile fell from his face. He shrugged his shoulders half-hardheartedly. “Really didn’t expect to come here either. Feet just had a mind of their own.”

“You okay?”

She motioned him to follow her into the living room and sit on the sofa. He shuffled his feet before collapsing onto the brown sofa her parents had gotten her and Jack as a wedding gift. He sighed loudly. “Is got stuff on my mind.”

“Anything I can help with?” Kat pulled her feet under her on the sofa, glancing in concern at her younger brother. “How was selling today?”

“It wa’ fine.” Worry crossed his face. She got up from her place and sat next to him, pulling him into a half hug.

Rubbing his back, she sighed. “You’re worrying me Race. What’s wrong?”

“Did I do something to make yous mad?” He said, in such a low whisper that she had a hard time hearing what he had said.

Katherine’s hand stilled on his back. She heard what he had said but her mind was slow to catch up. “Say that again.”

“Did I do somethings to make yous mad? You haven’t been to the lodge house in weeks and every time I ask Jack what’s up, he makes up some lame excuse. He’s not the best liar in the city, Kat.” Race spat out, his chest heavily with emotion. “So Is asking, did I do something to make you angry?”

Katherine’s face softened at his heartbroken question. Ever since helping with the strike, she had more or less adopted the Newsies as her brothers. Since Race was so close with Jack, it was no surprise that she also became really close with the young man, to the point that she called him her brother.

“No, Race you didn’t do anything to make me mad.” She started, pausing to figure out how she would tell him. “Jack and I got some news.”

Race’s eyes went wide. “Yous okay?”

“Oh yea, everything’s okay.” She waved him off. “But you can’t tell your brother that I told you this . . . he has this whole thing planned out to tell you boys.”

Race held his breath. Jack hadn’t indicated anything was wrong but it had been a day since he saw his older brother. But he tried to slow his mind down of running through the worst case scenarios that could be happening with his older brother and sister.

“You’re going to be an uncle, Race.” Those words pulled him out of his own little world. His jaw dropped, his mind a little late to what he was hearing.

“A uncle?” He repeated before a grin split his lips. “Yous and Jack going to has a baby?”

Katherine nodded, putting her hands over her stomach. “Out of all the boys, I knew I couldn’t keep it a secret around you, since we’re so close, which is why I haven’t been to the house in a few weeks. Jack has a big thing planned out in a couple of weeks, but I knew I couldn’t keep it from you.”

“Plums, you’re not joking, right?” Race was a frequent jokester, and often recruited Katherine to plot and plan.

Tears were at her eyes as she shook her head. “Never, I would never joke about this.”

He stood, pulling her up from her chair before pulling her into a tight hug. “Plums, congratulations. Yous going to be a great mum.”

“Thank you Race. I’m sorry I made you worry. That was never my intention - I just knew that the moment I saw you, I wouldn’t be able to keep the news in.” She hugged him back.

Before he could wave off her apology, the door to the small apartment opened, with a whistling tune and heavy footsteps. Katherine simply shook her head, keeping an eye on Race, as Jack slipped his shoes off and soon was in the entryway to the kitchen. As soon as he saw Race near his wife, his entire body was on edge.

“Who’s hurt? What happened?” Jack immediately asked, stalking across the kitchen to two of the most important people in his life.

Race immediately shook his head. “All is good. Is just visiting Plums.”

Jack took several deep breaths, trying to calm himself down. In the middle of calming down, he gave his wife a look. “You told him . . . Plumber!”

“It’s Kelly, Jack and has been for almost a year.” She gave him a knowing look. “And also, I told him nothin’.”

Race snorted at the whine that came out of his brother’s mouth.

“Uh huh . . . sure you didn’t.” Jack pointed his finger between his best friend and his wife. “I know you both too well . . . Race looks like he swallowed the canary and you look like you wanna pass out.” A grin settled on his lips. “What do you think, Uncle Race?”

A sigh slipped between Race’s lips. “I think daddy and mummy are proper names for you both. Congratulations! The boys are going to be ova the moon for ya. Is this why yous been quiet around me when you’re at the house?”

“You can’t tell them anything and yes. I knew if yous called me out on it, I wouldn’t be able to not tell you.” Jack’s eyes went wide. “I have it planned out and everything.”

Race nodded, raising an eyebrow in his direction. “And how long do I have to keep this secret?”

Jack shrugged, looking over at Katherine. “Well . . . we haven’t really decided when we’re going to let the rest of the boys in on the secret. But you cannot tell anyone, not even Canlon or DaSilva.”

Race knew that not telling his boyfriend and best friend were going to be difficult. “Then you betta hurry up and tell the fellas.”

Three Days Later

A heat wave had descended down on New York City, causing all of the Newsies to sell their papes in a hurry before descending on Jacobi’s for a glass of refreshing water. Race looked around at the fellas who had joined him. Albert and Les were all laughing at what looked like Davey's expense. Specs, Finch, and Elmer had their heads together, discussing something important by the serious looks on their faces. Romeo had just taken a gulp of water before spraying it out all over Crutchie, causing the latter to cuff Romeo over the head.

The heavy closing of the door caught Race’s attention, a grin sliding across his face. “Look what the cat drug in . . . hey fellas, it’s the newlyweds.”

A rousing, hearty hello was thrown in Kat and Jack’s direction as they pulled up two chairs to join the crew. Jacobi brought over two glasses of water and refills for the boys before leavin’ them to their business.

“So why do we have the pleasure of seeing your mugs? Thought yous were going to be busy this week?” Albert looked at the married couple suspiciously.

Jack traded a glance with Kat and Race. He pulled a newspaper from his back pocket, nervously twisting it in his hands.

The boys had grown quiet, watching their leader with worried eyes. They hadn’t seen him this nervous since the strike happened. “Jack, yous okay?”

He lifted his head, looking over at Les’ concerned face. “I will be but I’ve got some news to share with yous.”

Race fought to keep the grin from his face at how Jack was milking his and making his brothers worry. Taking a deep breath, Race looked at his older brother. “Just tell us already . . . yous making the boys worried.”

“We got an early print of Plum’s new article.” Jack fumbled with the paper, pulling his eyes up to look at his boys. “Who wants to be the first to read it?”

The noise level went up - Katherine’s articles made it easy to sell papes - so every Newsies at the restaurant was eager to read it. Jack looked at his wife with a grin. “Who do you think should read it first?”

“Give it to Albert.” Kat’s eyes sparkled with the secret and nodded to the redhead.

Jack nodded, standing to walk over to Al. “Yous got to read it to the class so everyone can enjoy Kat’s words.”

The Newsies watched Albert’s eyes scan the paper, jaw dropped, before jumping over to Jack. “Yous serious?”

Laughing, Race, Kat, and Jack couldn’t hold it in anymore. Jack nodded, hugging Albert back. “How about you share it with thes rest of them?”

Albert went to open his mouth several times before looking at Jack. Picking up the pape, he held it in front of him, clearing his throat. “ Extra! Extra! Read all about it . . . . Jack and Plums are going to be parents.”

It was silent, until all hell broke loose amongst the Newsies. Eight Newsies clamored to get to either Kat or Jack to offer their congratulations. Race stood back, took in the sight and committed that to his mind to never forget.

“Wait!” Romeo spoke up, causing silence to hush over to the boys. “How come Race looks like he already knew? Jackie you keepin’ secrets from us?”

Race just grinned. “Just taking it alls in.”

Raising a glass of water, he motioned to the rest of the Newsies. “To the brother/dad wes always had to beings a real dad! Congratulations, Jackie and Plums.”

The Newsies celebrated the wonderful news of their growing family by toasting with water and having a festive feast at Jacobi’s.

November 1901

Jack had stopped by the lodge house to let the Newsies know the baby had arrived late on November 16 at 3am. He was sly with details but promised his brothers they would be able to visit soon after giving them a few days of adjusting to being a family of three.

Jack had seeked Race out at his normal selling spot and mentioned bringing some of the boys after selling hours. The boys had pooled some of their earnings to buy a bottle of wine for Plums, after Romeo mentioned they couldn’t show up empty handed.

Race had waited on the steps of the lodge house, waiting on the few he had mentioned Jack’s request to. Race had mentioned the event to Romeo, Albert, Specs, Crutchie, Finch, Elmer, Davey and Les so as soon as they had arrived, they set off for Jack’s.

Race kicked a pebble as the rambunctious group weaved their way through the streets of Manhattan. The streets were still bustling with people not paying attention to the ragtag team of young men. Soon, Albert had stopped the group at the familiar brownstone, causing a hush to settle on the group.

Jack was sitting on the brownstone with a giant smile on his face. “Hi boys . . . been waiting forever for yas to shows up.”

“Don’t ya have more important things to be worried about?” Race grinned, hopping up the stairs to hug his brother. “Doncha have a new baby to look afta?”

Jack nodded hello to the rest of his brothers, opening the door to the brownstone letting the Newsies in. “Can’t help that Is excited for you to meet the baby.”

Jack continued into the house, while the Newsies stopped. Kat was in a rocking chair in the living room with a bundle of blankets in her arms. Her face lit up at her brothers. “Come, come. Meet your niece.”

“Niece?” The boys echoed back, looking between Jack and Plums. “Yous have a daughter, Jack?”

Jack tilted his head. “Didn’t Is tell you that?”

“No, you told us the babys here, arrived on the 16th at 3 in the morning. Yous gave no additional details.” Albert supplied, shaking his head at the new dad. “Yous left us hanging.”

Kat laughed, rolling her eyes at her husband. “You poor boys. Well come here, meet your niece. Who wants to hold her first?”

Albert and Romeo playfully fought over who would be the first to hold her while the rest of the Newsies gave Jack and Kat hugs and admired the new baby from afar. Kat caught Race’s eyes and grinned. “Well Uncle Race, wants to hold your niece?”

Race immediately felt himself shaking his head, but knew he wanted to hold the baby and keep her safe. “Plums . . . Is never held a baby before.”

She shook her head. “Come here. Sit down, and hold your arms like so.” She demonstrated and as soon as his arms were stable, a yellow bundle was put into his arms.

Race felt himself relax as his eyes swept over the baby. Her lips were puckered and eyes closed tightly as she slept peacefully. “Wow Jackie, Plums, she’s gorgeous. What’s her name?”

“Samantha Anne Kelly.” Kat knelt next to the rocking chair, looking at Race. “What do you think Uncle Race?”

“She’s perfect.” He used his free hand to bat away tears that had escaped. “She’s just perfect. Congrats Plums. Yous a mom.”

The rest of the evening was passing the baby around and cooing at how perfect, sweet, and precious baby Samantha was. And Race was a very attentive uncle and vowed to himself to always protect that little girl from harm.

#Newsies #Fan Fiction #Fan Fic #Writing #Dancerlittle006 #the many adventures of sammi & race

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