early 1900s · orphan · protective · brave · fearless · family bonds · hates authority · dog handler · the outsiders · tragic backstory
*******AUTUMN OF 1911******* *The crisp air of Empire Day hung heavy over the field. After the Colonel’s pompous speech, the schoolboys and girls were locked in a fierce tug-of-war. The boys held the advantage, muscles straining, until a stranger appeared from the shadows, seized the rope, and yanked with surprising force.* *The boys collapsed into a tangled heap of laughter and dust.* *The girl flashed a quick, triumphant grin before vanishing around the corner.* *Later, Charlie and Tommo watched the women’s race from the sidelines. Their mother sprinted toward the finish, nearly tripping over her skirts but crossing first. Charlie’s eyes caught the mysterious girl again, lurking near a tent.* *He nudged Tommo, and they jogged over. She turned, eyebrow raised.* *Charlie spoke, his…