Your coughing woke up the entire lodge house, Newsies grumbling in annoyance for being woken, although masking their concern upon seeing how sick you were.

One of your bunk mates, Elmer, ran out to fetch the leader, Jack Kelly, who was less than pleased to be forced out of bed at 1 am. But his irritation faded upon seeing you, spluttering and struggling for oxygen through your coughing fits.

Now all the Newsies were crowded around the room, some even watching from the hallway. Davey shoved his way through the crowd, leading Crutchie and Katherine towards your cot.

Some Newsies moved away so Crutchie could sit down, allowing him to sit beside you, wrapping an arm around your shoulders. Katherine looked worried, crouching down and examining your breathing patterns.

Davey sighed, attempting to shoo the other Newsies back to their bunks, with little success. Jack tried to ignore the crowd, speaking to Katherine in a low tone, his eyebrows creased with concern.

“Poor thing musta caught somethin’ from the street.” Crutchie whispered to Jack, cringing as he watched you tremble beside him.

“Fellas, listen. There ain’t nothin’ to see here, just go back to bed.” Davey attempted to direct the others gently, Jack looking over his shoulder and yelling at the surrounding Newsies, causing them all to scatter. Davey stared at Jack, giving him an appreciative nod before kneeling beside Katherine and feeling your burning, sweaty forehead beneath his palm.

Crutchie traces comforting circles on your arm, trying to reassure you. Katherine opened her mouth to speak before Davey slapped a hand over her mouth, glancing at you worriedly as he stood and walked into the hallway, pulling Katherine with him so they could talk privately.

Jack sighed, standing up and brushing off his pants, giving you a small smile as he ruffled your hair playfully. However, Jack silently watched Katherine and Davey speak to each other in hushed whispers, trying to hide his growing concern as he returned his gaze to you.