The Crutch's Sister

Monday

It was rainy again when Jack, Crutchie, the boys and I went down to the train station to say goodbye to Davey. His parents and Les were already with him. I stood back so all of the boys could say their individual goodbyes. I looked over at Les, who was sitting on a bench by the ticket booth. I walked over to him and sat down. I put my arm around him and hugged him tightly.

"I'm gonna miss him, too." I said. "I know, it's gonna be hard not seeing him everyday, but you always have your folks, Jack, Crutchie, the boys, Medda-"

"And you?" he asked. I looked down at him and smiled.

"And me." I winked, hugging him again. I looked up at Davey, who was looking back at me. I walked up to him and hugged him tightly. He hugged back and I felt tears coming to my eyes.

"I'm gonna miss you, Katie." he said.

"I'm gonna miss you, too." I replied. He let go and looked at me.

"Please take care of Les." he said. "He's gonna be the one who takes this the hardest." I nodded.

"I'll take care of him like he was my brother." I heard Crutchie clear his throat behind me. I chuckled and gently nudged him. The train whistle blew, signaling all passengers to board. "Take care of yourself, Davey." I said, giving one last hug. I felt him nod as he let go. I gave him a quick, friendly peck on the cheek. "For luck." I chuckled, winking. He squeezed me one last time. He walked onto the train before turning to look at all of us. 

"I'll write you as soon as I get there." he said with a smile.

"Good luck, newsie!" Jack shouted. As the train pulled away, we all shouted and hollered well wishes to Davey. We only left when we couldn't see the train's smoke stack anymore. 

We walked out of the train station and to our everyday selling spots. After I had sold my papers, I looked around, expecting to see my friend. I shook my head and walked into the theater. I went into my dressing room and attempted to read a book. There was a knock at the door and Medda was there.

"I almost forgot to give you this." she said, handing me an envelope. "Some kid gave it to me this morning. He said it was for you." she walked out the door and I sat up and looked at the envelope. 

Kicks

I opened it and it was a letter. I began to read it and it said.

Dear Kicks,

If you're reading this, Medda gave you the letter and I'm on my way to Oregon. I know it probably wasn't easy, but we said goodbye. I'm really gonna miss you. I'm gonna miss seeing you and the boys. Please take care of my family for me, especially Les. I'm going to come back and visit once the school lets out for Christmas, so I'll see you real soon. Just stay safe and take care of everyone and yourself.

Your friend,

Davey