THE HANDS OF INNOCENCE / o, joining

[jacob w.c.]

Jacob wasn't sure what to think about home anymore. People said home was where the heart was and, supposedly, the 'heart' referred to family. But what happened when your family was either gone or split up? He knew that moving away from his babbo had been necessary for his own safety but there were still days he missed him. That wasn't even in consideration to all those that he'd lost. He'd refrained from sharing that bit of things with his babbo, as it'd all happened long after he moved away. He'd never be able to lie face to face but it was so easy to lie on paper, especially when he knew that it'd cause more pain if he told the truth. He'd made sure the man knew his whereabouts and that he and Jersey had left again after he'd heard whispers of his name again in their old home. He was sure he'd find out about the fire soon enough, though. Jacob knew better than anyone that he had eyes and ears everywhere.

So, he supposed his home was with Jersey if it couldn't be with Vito. His big brother had been the one to take care of him after all that'd happened. He couldn't leave him now. They had come to Snowbound looking for more opportunities and safety but maybe this place could be home too, someday. He hoped so.

He was pulled from his somber thoughts when an unfamiliar voice cut through the air. Of course, he hadn't met most people here so it wasn't exactly unexpected. However, the words to this one were different than a simple greeting or announcement. No, this voice wanted a home too. He made his way towards it as fast as he could, his limp more pronounced as he pushed himself to go faster. Finally, he arrived before the stranger and offered a light smile, settling down and letting out a sigh of relief as his legs were allowed a brief break. "Ya' heard right. This place 's called Snowbound n' you're welcome ta' join, ah' course. At least, I don' see why not. 'M pretty new myself, though. 'M Jacob, by the way. Wha's your name?"