Chapter 9

Enzo followed Gray into the kitchen. A small dinette set that barely sat two was in the corner of the kitchen. There was a dining area that flowed into the living room, but Enzo would bet they ate all of their meals in the kitchen. The set seemed more comfortable. Gray’s mother sat at the table, waif-like, mostly skin and bones. Through her top, Enzo could count her ribs.

“Mom, this is Enzo Del Monte. He’s Carlo and Jack’s cousin, and this is Mom’s new health aide, Marjorie Ellis.” Marjorie shook his hand and began to prepare the can of chicken noodle soup.

“Genevieve, I’ll get your soup then, later on, we’ll try some scrambled eggs and toast.”

Mrs. Grey nodded. “Thank you…” She turned to Enzo. “Carlo and Jack have Baby Bella. I’ve heard about poor Bella. Is she doing better?” The air of real concern astonished Enzo. This woman was near death and asking about Bella.