Page 72 of Merciless Monster

Paolo has become a fixture in our home. He doesn’t speak much, but I can tell that there’s a lot going on behind those dark brown eyes of his.

“I’m going over to see my folks today. Why don’t you take the day off and go into town? I’ll be fine.”

“Will Angelo be going with you?”

“No. He has a playdate with his friend, Max.”

“I think I’ll stay with him, then.”

At first Paolo’s constant presence irritated the shit out of me. It’s just weird having a nursemaid following us around. But, I’m used to it now.

“Okay. But keep your distance please, Paolo. I don’t want to freak Max’s mother out.”

“She won’t even know I’m there.”

“Thank you.”

“Hey, Paolo.”

“Good morning, Angelo,” Paolo smiles warmly at the son of his Don.

“Mommy, can Splash come with me? Max says his mother won’t mind. He also has a dog.”

“No, my sweetheart. Splash has to stay here and guard the house,” I smile.

“Ahhh!”

“Don’t pout, sweetheart. Max’s mom said she’s taking you guys to the petting zoo today.”

“Oh, cool! I’m going to feed carrots to the alpacas. Max says if you don’t, they spit at you.”

“Ugh!” I grimace.

“It’s true. Suzie didn’t give her alpaca a carrot and it snotted all over her hand.”

“Okay. In that case, I’d better pack some wet wipes,” I chuckle.

“Good luck,” I whisper to Paolo as I pass him.

“Thanks,” he grins.

* * *

“Hi, darling. Where’s Angelo?”

“Hey, Mom. Nice to see you too,” I smirk. “He’s gone to the petting zoo with Max and his mom.”

“Ah! I was hoping to see my little muffin. But you’ll do,” she grins. “Come in.”

“Where’s Dad?”

“He’s in the den.”

“Good. I want to talk to you both before we sit down to brunch.”

“Is something the matter?”

“Kinda.”

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