Page 130 of Men or Paws

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I showed Marcello the quote.

He nodded. “Truer words have never been spoken.”

I opened the card to see what Beth wrote on the inside.

Dear Rocco,

Fate brought us together.

My heart is happy because of it.

You brighten up my life with everything

you do. I wanted to return the favor and

brighten up your life with this gift.

I love you.

With all my heart.

Beth

I stared at the three words.

I love you.

Beth loves me.

And I sent her away.

I swallowed hard, fighting back the tears, wondering how long it would take before Marcello called me an idiot.

“Let me see,” he said, holding out his hand.

I hesitated, but then handed him the card.

Marcello pointed right at me. “I knew it. She loves you.”

I nodded.

“You’re an idiot,” he added.

And there it was.

The truth and nothing but the truth.

Rocco Romano is an idiot.

Marcello pointed to the gift. “Well, what are you waiting for?”

I pulled the wrapping paper apart and stared at what was inside.

It was a polo shirt.

Purple, of all colors.

I couldn’t help smiling, thinking of all the times she gave me crap for my black clothes.

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