Being left on the theatre steps as an infant, Medda couldn’t bring herself to turn you away. It’s been a few years since you’ve been adopted by her, as you were currently sat backstage, perched on a bench as you swung your little legs over the side.

Crutchie and Jack came to visit, which wasn’t a rare occurrence, seeing as they got in for free. Medda was like a mother figure to all of the Newsies, so you were like they’re baby sister, with them acting like your older brothers in return.

Crutchie was sat on a stool nearby, rubbing his bad leg while Jack was by the wings, watching the girls dancing on stage.

“Quit ya starin’, Jack. You’re startin’ to drool.” Crutchie teased, Jack giving him a playful glare and a gentle shove.

You grew bored, sliding off the bench and wandering over to the exit, making your way outside to the back alleyway.

There, you saw a tall guy, maybe in his early 30s, leaning against the wall, raising an eyebrow as he saw you.

He removed the cigar clenched between his teeth, tossing it carelessly before stomping on the lit bud with his boot, striding over.

Although he bent down to be more at eye level you with, his figure still loomed above you.

“What’s a girl like you doing in an alley like this? Ain’t it past your bed time, little miss?”

As you started to converse with the strange man, not being able to help the innocent trust you were building for the stranger, you heard the exit door slam open, not needing to look behind you to know who was there.

Jack, seeing some stranger with you, immediately marched towards you both, shoving him back and placing himself between the two of you.

Crutchie limped over, with the help of his wooden crutch, staying by your side and bending down slightly to match your height, checking you over for any injuries.

Jack glanced back at you, studying your expression before shouting at the man, standing in front of you.

The man just chuckled, his eyes never leaving you as Crutchie grabbed your hand.