Page 409 - The Book Thief

water with some drop sheets.

Papa spoke. With his wet hand, he made the girl stop. He held her forearm.
Liesel? His face clung to her. Do you think hes alive?

Liesel sat.

She crossed her legs.

The wet drop sheet soaked onto her knee.

I hope so, Papa.

It felt like such a stupid thing to say, so obvious, but there seemed little
alternative.

To say at least something of value, and to distract them from thoughts of Max,

she made herself crouch and placed a finger in a small pool of water on the floor.
Guten Morgen, Papa.

In response, Hans winked at her.

But it was not the usual wink. It was heavier, clumsier. The post-Max version,
the hangover version. He sat up and told her about the accordion of the previous
night, and Frau Holtzapfel.

THE KITCHEN: 1 P.M.
Two hours till goodbye: Dont go, Papa. Please.
Her spoon-holding hand is shaking. First we lost Max.
I cant lose you now, too. In response, the hungover
man digs his elbow into the table and covers his right eye.
Youre half a woman now, Liesel. He wants to break down but

wards it off. He rides through it. Look after
Mama, will you? The girl can make only half a nod
to agree. Yes, Papa.