CHAPTER 52 – THE CALLERS
"Hey, Mauger, how ya doing?" Barrajas called out as he stuck his head into the living room at Carl Westmoreland's home.
Mauger nearly fainted from surprise and excitement.
That he responded to her husband as a friendly and trustworthy human being first, and a star second, was not lost on Mrs. Barrajas, who was standing at her husband's side.
"You see what I mean?" Barrajas asked her, quietly and a bit nervously. She squeezed his hand and smiled at him.
"Everyone, I would like for you to meet my wife, Louisa. That would be Mrs. Barrajas to you boys. Mauger, if you will make introductions on your side, please?"
Mauger didn't know whether to swell with pride at the honor being bestowed upon him, or panic at the magnitude of it. Barrajas sent off clues as to who should be introduced first, and Mauger drew on every bit of bluff he had ever learned. The introductions were made in good order, and the visitors were invited to stay for dinner.
They had, of course, already been invited behind the boys' backs. Carterson had seen to that: Carterson, plus Stolemaker, plus Hippo, with the blessings of Durand. By all means, Mr. and Mrs. Barrajas must have a chance to meet with the somewhat lost street boys in need of a good home.
Not Exactly Allies Page 53