My Poor Head Is Spinning

Chapter 19

"Emilia. Will you marry me?" Crutchie asked, eyes hopeful. I felt tears prick my eyes. I wasn't sad, but it's just the shock. 

"Emilia!" Winnie hissed, shaking me. Jack was hiding his beaming smile behind his hand. Nobody was talking, all eyes were on me. I knelt down so I could be on eye level with him. I glanced down and saw that he wasn't leaning on his bum leg. My cheeks were burning. I threw myself forward to give him a hug. I knew I wouldn't bull him over; he was strong. 

"What? Did you think I'd say no?" I breathed. He hugged me tightly. 

"Is that a yes?" He asked hopefully. 

"Naturally." I grinned. Crutchie pulled away and pressed his lips to mine. The boys all cheered happily. 

"Finally!" Jack yelled. "It's only been six years!"

"Okay, Jack!" Crutchie scoffed. There turned out to be tears in his eyes, too. He turned back to me, popped open the small black box and slid a thin gold ring on my finger. How can a Newsie afford this?

"Thank you." I murmured.

"My pleasure." Crutchie replied happily.