Full House Read Online Free PDF Page A

“It’s okay. He’s trying to help.”
    “I heard yelling,” she began. “I went to the door and saw Eddy punch Marco. He yelled some more about money and then he slapped Marco.”
    Moody made several notes on his pad of paper. “That’s all I need.” He smiled at Maria. “You did good, honey.”
    Marco kissed the top of Maria’s head. “Thanks. I’ll call you in for lunch as soon as I get it fixed.”
    Maria nodded, and Marco started to slide off the bed. Once again Moody picked him up.
    “Seriously, dude, I can walk.”
    Moody scowled. “Seriously, dude , it’s easier this way.”
    Maria giggled, which surprised them both. Marco studied his little sister. “You find this funny?”
    Maria nodded, giggling again. “You look so tiny.”
    Now it was Marco’s turn to scowl. “I’m not tiny. Moody’s just a giant.”
    Moody carried Marco in and set him on the couch. Angelo was standing beside the front door.
    “I think I’ll run out and get stuff for lunch.”
    Marco studied his nervous friend. “You don’t have to do that. I’m well enough to stand at the stove and make a box of mac and cheese and boil a hotdog.”
    Angelo shook his head. “You are not and you know it. Besides, you called us over here at lunchtime, and I’m starving. It’ll just be easier to eat if I run out and get some stuff.”
    Marco narrowed his eyes at Angelo. He knew what his friend was up to. Evidently Angelo had taken a look around his bare kitchen while he’d been in the bedroom. Still, his sister needed to eat and despite his protests, he was in no condition to cook it for her.
    “I’d appreciate that.” It took more strength than he thought he had to accept the charity he knew was being offered. Despite everything, he’d never taken a penny from the state to help raise his siblings. He’d always prided himself on being able to handle his home life on his own, but it seemed the older the boys got, the more money seemed to be needed.
    At least Bruno had finally gotten a job a few days earlier. In the past, Marco had told both brothers that their schoolwork came first and as long as they put in the time and energy required to get good grades, he’d leave them alone about jobs. But when Bruno had come to him about buying a class ring, Marco had put his foot down. He’d informed his brother a part-time job might be in order if he wanted such extravagances.
    Bruno hadn’t argued. He’d gone out two days later and found a job as a stock boy a couple of afternoons a week.
    “Is there anything special you’re hungry for?” Angelo asked, interrupting Marco’s thoughts.
    “Whatever you get will be fine. We’re not picky eaters in this house.” Whining at the back door got his attention. “Can I ask you for another favour before you go?”
    “Sure,” Angelo answered.
    “Would you set out a bowl of food for Rufus? I think Nicky forgot again. He’s usually inside, but I’ve had trouble keeping him off my leg.”
    Moody turned to Angelo and gave him a kiss. “I’ll do it while you get lunch.”
    Angelo kissed his partner back before heading out the front door.
    “Where’s the food?” Moody asked.
    “There should still be some in the metal can next to the backdoor. His bowl should be on top. He might need some fresh water in his bowl outside, too.”
    Moody disappeared into the kitchen. Marco settled back on the sofa. He touched his fingertips to his lip, feeling the drying blood. How many split lips had he suffered over the years?
    “Jesus Christ!” Moody shouted.
    Marco grinned. “I see you’ve met Rufus.”
    Moody came back into the room. “He nearly knocked me over trying to get at his food.”
    Marco gestured to his knee. “How do you think this happened?”
    “You need to get that dog into some kind of training class,” Moody remarked, taking a seat next to the couch.
    “I would if I could afford it. He’s really not so bad. I think he makes the kids feel safer knowing he’s here at