Mr. Mendes, standing beneath his couch, debated what
to do.
He didn't really want Marco to see him like this. If
he remained hidden, perhaps Marco would think he
wasn't home and leave, hopefully before the boys
returned. But, if the boys could not resolve the
dilemma, he might need some more mature, responsible
help.
"Francis?" Marco's deep voice rumbled through the
room. "Well, guess you're not home."
Mr. Mendes watched as his boyfriend's huge shoes moved
back across the room toward the door. As Marco's giant
hand reached for the door, Mr. Mendes sprinted from
beneath the couch. "Wait," he shouted. "Marco, I'm
down here! Help me!"
But, he had delayed too long. Before he could cross
the floor, Marco had made his departure, closing the
door behind him.
Mr. Mendes felt utterly defeated. He figured he had no
choice now but to await the boys' return, hopefully
with the missing page with the reversal spell.
Then, he felt a breeze on his bare skin. He noticed
that Marco hadn't completely closed the door, but had
accidentally left it slightly ajar.
Francisco Mendes stood in the ample space offered by
the space between the door and its frame. If he
wanted, he could step out onto his front steps. But
shouldn't he just patiently wait for Ric and Josh to
return.