Page 305 - The Book Thief

At once, a wooden spoon fell into some soup and Rosa Hubermann was at his
side. She held Maxs head and barked across the room at Liesel, Dont just stand
there, get the extra blankets. Take them to your bed. And you! Papa was next.
Help me pick him up and carry him to Liesels room. Schnell!

Papas face was stretched with concern. His gray eyes clanged and he picked him
up on his own. Max was light as a child. Cant we put him here, in our bed?

Rosa had already considered that. No. We have to keep these curtains open in
the day or else it looks suspicious.

Good point. Hans carried him out.

Blankets in hand, Liesel watched.

Limp feet and hanging hair in the hallway. One shoe had fallen off him.

Move.

Mama marched in behind them, in her waddlesome way.

Once Max was in the bed, blankets were heaped on top and fastened around his
body.

Mama?

Liesel couldnt bring herself to say anything else.

What? The bun of Rosa Hubermanns hair was wound tight enough to frighten

from behind. It seemed to tighten further when she repeated the question. What,
Liesel?

She stepped closer, afraid of the answer. Is he alive?

The bun nodded.

Rosa turned then and said something with great assurance. Now listen to me,
Liesel. I didnt take this man into my house to watch him die. Understand?