Little Miss Marker

Marky is handed over by her father to a gang as collateral for a bet. The gang decides to keep her and uses her to influence a planned fixed race, naming her the owner of the horse. This moment sets the stage for her life among criminals.

Marky is placed with bookie Sorrowful Jones. At first, he is irritated by the responsibility, but he gradually develops a father–daughter bond with her. The gangsters treat him as part of her growing extended family.

Sorrowful buys Marky new clothes, moves to a bigger apartment, and reads her bedtime stories. He teaches her to pray, revealing a warm side beneath his hard-nosed exterior. Bangles and other gang members begin to regard her as part of the family.

Bangles, Big Steve's girlfriend who travels to Chicago to place bets on the horse, starts caring for Marky and falls in love with Sorrowful. Her involvement deepens the emotional ties within the makeshift family. Marky witnesses increasing affection among the gangsters.

Being around the gangsters, Marky develops a cynical attitude and picks up gambling slang. The criminal environment begins to shape her speech and outlook. This marks a significant shift from her earlier innocence.

To win back her gentleness, Bangles and Sorrowful host a party with gangsters dressed as knights of the Round Table. They parade the horse around Marky in an attempt to charm her. She remains unimpressed by the spectacle.

Back in New York, Big Steve frightens the horse, causing it to throw Marky. She is taken to the hospital for life-threatening injuries. The incident underscores the risks surrounding the operation.

Big Steve visits the hospital and, forced to face his actions, agrees to give Marky a direct blood transfusion she needs to survive. His act leads to forgiveness from Bangles and Sorrowful. The moment marks a turning point in their relationships.

Sorrowful destroys the drug that would have helped the horse win the race, recognizing it would also kill the horse. He makes a selfless choice to protect Marky’s life rather than pursue a victory. This act reinforces his role as her protector.

Marky survives thanks to the life-saving transfusion and the care of Sorrowful. The event is framed as a moral turning point, with a sense of life-affirming redemption. Big Steve realizes the value of giving life over causing harm.

Big Steve forgives Bangles and Sorrowful for past tensions, acknowledging their shared commitment to Marky. They plan to marry and adopt Marky, cementing their makeshift family. The resolution emphasizes reconciliation and new beginnings.

With the crisis resolved, Marky is to be raised by the new family unit formed by Bangles, Sorrowful, and Big Steve. The ending highlights care, redemption, and a chance for normal life away from crime. Their bond marks a fresh start for all involved.