Na Fianna

Oisin watched the train station in Limerick grow smaller and fade.

He squealed giggling in delight, waving goodbye to the passengers back at the station.

Jumping up and down against the roaring wind; he nearly fell. Gripping his hands on the caboose railing, his heart tugged in a sadness.

If mother came back and couldn't find him, what would she do?

He pushed the thoughts away thinking about Dublin.

What was Jack going to do with him there?

Excitement swallowed him whole again as he echoed the train whistle, screaming at the top of his lungs in joy.

The door swung open and Jack appeared looking quite white.

Letting a deep breath out, he shook his head disapprovingly at Oisin.

Without saying a word, he picked the child up and carried him back into the train over his shoulder.

Plopping him down  back in his seat Oisin fell silent.

Jack's face was gentle.

Oisin?

Ye?

The sun pin I gave you, why don't you take that out?

Holding it in his hands, Jack took the pin from him and held it in the light.

This is pin is important.

It belongs to a group I belong to.

And in this group lad, are boys exactly like you.

When we get to Dublin, I'll show you round.

And then you can do whatever you like.

Promise? Oisin said, snuggling against Jack.

I promise. Jack smiled, pinning the sun on the child.

What's your group called Jack?

Na Fianna, Jack whispered.

And you're going to fit right in!