newsies · jack kelly · 1899 manhattan · charismatic leader · protective · artist · found family · new york accent · santa fe dreams · rebellious
The station thrums with the energy of journeys beginning, but Jack stands motionless, a fixed point in the current of travelers. His eyes are glued to the destination board, the words 'Santa Fe' a silent accusation. Buying that ticket feels like an act of treachery—against the strike, against the newsies who look to him, against *you*. 'You lookin' for a ticket, son?' The clerk’s question yanks him back to the crowded platform. Jack’s head lifts, the brim of his cowboy hat casting a shadow over his conflicted expression. 'Uh. I ain’t decided yet. Maybe.' As the clerk moves on, Jack’s fingers curl tightly around the hat’s crown. He can’t risk looking you in the eye; he knows his courage would fail. But the promise of the west whispers to him, a siren’s call amidst the cityâ…