WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:00.570 align:middle line:90% 00:00:00.570 --> 00:00:05.700 align:middle line:84% And last-- you know what's going to happen, I know that-- 00:00:05.700 --> 00:00:07.860 align:middle line:90% let me just say this. 00:00:07.860 --> 00:00:10.740 align:middle line:84% When I read this part, you will hear the thoughts 00:00:10.740 --> 00:00:11.850 align:middle line:90% of the other person. 00:00:11.850 --> 00:00:14.100 align:middle line:90% OK, this is Zora's-- 00:00:14.100 --> 00:00:16.110 align:middle line:84% the point of view of this chapter 00:00:16.110 --> 00:00:19.050 align:middle line:84% is Zora's But you will also hear Franklin's thoughts. 00:00:19.050 --> 00:00:22.830 align:middle line:84% And I'll just sort of pause so you'll know that, OK? 00:00:22.830 --> 00:00:25.200 align:middle line:90% It's kind of obvious. 00:00:25.200 --> 00:00:27.480 align:middle line:84% I stood outside the apartment I have come to look at. 00:00:27.480 --> 00:00:29.670 align:middle line:84% And my first impression was that it was a-- 00:00:29.670 --> 00:00:31.140 align:middle line:90% [GIBBERISH] 00:00:31.140 --> 00:00:33.540 align:middle line:84% I stood outside the apartment I have come to look at. 00:00:33.540 --> 00:00:36.480 align:middle line:84% And my first impression was that it was a beautiful building. 00:00:36.480 --> 00:00:39.240 align:middle line:84% That is, until I walked inside and saw that stairwell. 00:00:39.240 --> 00:00:40.800 align:middle line:90% Talk about old. 00:00:40.800 --> 00:00:42.750 align:middle line:84% The railing looked as rickety as the ones 00:00:42.750 --> 00:00:44.670 align:middle line:84% you see in horror movies and so dusty 00:00:44.670 --> 00:00:46.890 align:middle line:84% that when I put my foot on the first step, 00:00:46.890 --> 00:00:49.740 align:middle line:84% a clay-like powder puffed up like a cloud under my dress. 00:00:49.740 --> 00:00:52.180 align:middle line:84% And I could have sworn it was going to collapse. 00:00:52.180 --> 00:00:53.220 align:middle line:90% I was making a mistake. 00:00:53.220 --> 00:00:54.600 align:middle line:90% I knew that already. 00:00:54.600 --> 00:00:57.930 align:middle line:84% Something told me that the ad sounded too good to be true. 00:00:57.930 --> 00:01:00.570 align:middle line:84% Large one bedroom, fully renovated brownstone, 00:01:00.570 --> 00:01:02.700 align:middle line:84% 10-foot ceilings, all-new appliances, 00:01:02.700 --> 00:01:06.300 align:middle line:84% exposed brick, southern exposure, 10 minutes 00:01:06.300 --> 00:01:10.860 align:middle line:84% to Wall Street, close to shop, subway, $500? 00:01:10.860 --> 00:01:12.855 align:middle line:84% I heard the sound of drilling coming 00:01:12.855 --> 00:01:13.980 align:middle line:90% from the top of the stairs. 00:01:13.980 --> 00:01:16.110 align:middle line:90% So I took my chances and ran up. 00:01:16.110 --> 00:01:19.680 align:middle line:84% Sawdust was flying around the white room like gold snow. 00:01:19.680 --> 00:01:21.930 align:middle line:84% I looked down, saw a curved red back, 00:01:21.930 --> 00:01:25.990 align:middle line:84% then a long arm flying up, thick black fingers grasping a hammer 00:01:25.990 --> 00:01:26.490 align:middle line:90% firmly. 00:01:26.490 --> 00:01:28.380 align:middle line:84% And when it swung back down, the sound I made 00:01:28.380 --> 00:01:30.210 align:middle line:90% scared me and I gasped. 00:01:30.210 --> 00:01:32.160 align:middle line:90% He looked up. 00:01:32.160 --> 00:01:34.080 align:middle line:84% "What can I do for you?" he asked. 00:01:34.080 --> 00:01:35.760 align:middle line:90% Then he stood up. 00:01:35.760 --> 00:01:39.930 align:middle line:84% Lord have mercy was all I heard inside my head. 00:01:39.930 --> 00:01:42.327 align:middle line:84% I could not move, let alone speak. 00:01:42.327 --> 00:01:44.160 align:middle line:84% I really couldn't believe what I was seeing. 00:01:44.160 --> 00:01:46.170 align:middle line:84% This man had to be six-foot something because he 00:01:46.170 --> 00:01:47.670 align:middle line:90% was towering over me. 00:01:47.670 --> 00:01:50.760 align:middle line:84% His eyes looked like black marble set in almonds 00:01:50.760 --> 00:01:53.353 align:middle line:84% and he wore a Yankees baseball cap backwards. 00:01:53.353 --> 00:01:55.770 align:middle line:84% And when he lifted it from his head to shake off the dust, 00:01:55.770 --> 00:01:58.170 align:middle line:90% his hair was jet black and wavy. 00:01:58.170 --> 00:02:01.350 align:middle line:84% That nose was strong and regal and beneath it 00:02:01.350 --> 00:02:03.240 align:middle line:90% was a thick mustache. 00:02:03.240 --> 00:02:04.860 align:middle line:90% His cheeks looked chiseled. 00:02:04.860 --> 00:02:06.960 align:middle line:84% His shoulders were as wide as any linebacker's. 00:02:06.960 --> 00:02:10.389 align:middle line:84% And those thighs were tight, and his legs went on forever. 00:02:10.389 --> 00:02:12.490 align:middle line:84% There was a film of dust all over his skin. 00:02:12.490 --> 00:02:14.490 align:middle line:84% But when he pushed the sleeves of his sweatshirt 00:02:14.490 --> 00:02:19.980 align:middle line:84% up to his elbows, his arms were the color of fudge brownies. 00:02:19.980 --> 00:02:22.650 align:middle line:84% "Did you come to look at the apartment?" he asked. 00:02:22.650 --> 00:02:26.610 align:middle line:84% I cleared my throat and heard a word come out of my mouth. 00:02:26.610 --> 00:02:28.050 align:middle line:90% "Yes." 00:02:28.050 --> 00:02:29.850 align:middle line:84% Then he smiled down at me, as if he 00:02:29.850 --> 00:02:32.058 align:middle line:84% was thinking about something that had happened to him 00:02:32.058 --> 00:02:33.450 align:middle line:90% earlier. 00:02:33.450 --> 00:02:35.940 align:middle line:90% Just what the fuck I need. 00:02:35.940 --> 00:02:38.160 align:middle line:84% Something as fine as this moving down the street. 00:02:38.160 --> 00:02:40.170 align:middle line:84% I thought she was going to be fat and ugly. 00:02:40.170 --> 00:02:41.605 align:middle line:90% At least skinny and ugly. 00:02:41.605 --> 00:02:43.230 align:middle line:84% Vinney he said she was a schoolteacher. 00:02:43.230 --> 00:02:45.760 align:middle line:84% This chick don't look like no damn school teacher. 00:02:45.760 --> 00:02:47.067 align:middle line:90% He must have made a mistake. 00:02:47.067 --> 00:02:48.900 align:middle line:84% She wearing the hell out of that pink dress, 00:02:48.900 --> 00:02:50.790 align:middle line:90% I swear to God she is. 00:02:50.790 --> 00:02:52.890 align:middle line:90% Franklin, cut the bullshit, man. 00:02:52.890 --> 00:02:55.920 align:middle line:90% Get her out of here. 00:02:55.920 --> 00:02:57.753 align:middle line:84% "Running a little behind schedule, as usual. 00:02:57.753 --> 00:02:59.628 align:middle line:84% I don't know when we're going to be finished, 00:02:59.628 --> 00:03:00.670 align:middle line:90% to tell you the truth. 00:03:00.670 --> 00:03:02.820 align:middle line:84% Been trying to figure out how all these mice been 00:03:02.820 --> 00:03:04.080 align:middle line:90% getting in here. 00:03:04.080 --> 00:03:06.300 align:middle line:84% Ain't found it yet and I don't know how to roaches 00:03:06.300 --> 00:03:07.740 align:middle line:84% and water bugs got in here either. 00:03:07.740 --> 00:03:08.902 align:middle line:90% Tribes of them. 00:03:08.902 --> 00:03:10.860 align:middle line:84% We're going to have to fumigate this place good 00:03:10.860 --> 00:03:13.710 align:middle line:84% before anybody even think about moving in here." 00:03:13.710 --> 00:03:16.233 align:middle line:90% Mice, water bugs, and roaches. 00:03:16.233 --> 00:03:17.400 align:middle line:90% He had to be pulling my leg. 00:03:17.400 --> 00:03:18.930 align:middle line:90% This place is brand new. 00:03:18.930 --> 00:03:20.670 align:middle line:90% "Are you the owner?" 00:03:20.670 --> 00:03:21.810 align:middle line:90% "I wish I was. 00:03:21.810 --> 00:03:24.690 align:middle line:84% He's back there," he said, pointing down a long hallway. 00:03:24.690 --> 00:03:25.980 align:middle line:90% "Hey Vinney," he yells. 00:03:25.980 --> 00:03:28.290 align:middle line:84% "Somebody's here to see you, man." 00:03:28.290 --> 00:03:30.060 align:middle line:84% Before I started in that direction, 00:03:30.060 --> 00:03:31.560 align:middle line:84% I could see that the living room was 00:03:31.560 --> 00:03:35.220 align:middle line:84% very large and shaped like an L. Three tall windows extended 00:03:35.220 --> 00:03:38.520 align:middle line:84% from the ceiling almost to the floor, which meant sunshine. 00:03:38.520 --> 00:03:40.170 align:middle line:84% The kitchen was over in a corner, 00:03:40.170 --> 00:03:41.640 align:middle line:90% but I could live with that. 00:03:41.640 --> 00:03:43.650 align:middle line:90% So far the ad hadn't lied. 00:03:43.650 --> 00:03:45.900 align:middle line:90% Everything was brand new. 00:03:45.900 --> 00:03:48.210 align:middle line:84% Halfway down the hallway was the bathroom. 00:03:48.210 --> 00:03:50.340 align:middle line:84% I peeked in and turned on the light. 00:03:50.340 --> 00:03:54.060 align:middle line:84% A sea blue bathtub, toilet, and sink, clean white tile 00:03:54.060 --> 00:03:56.400 align:middle line:84% on the floor and walls, and one of those orange lamps 00:03:56.400 --> 00:03:58.470 align:middle line:84% in the ceiling to help you dry off. 00:03:58.470 --> 00:04:00.167 align:middle line:90% So far, so good. 00:04:00.167 --> 00:04:02.250 align:middle line:84% When I entered the doorway at the end of the hall, 00:04:02.250 --> 00:04:04.650 align:middle line:84% I was standing inside a sunny bedroom with three more 00:04:04.650 --> 00:04:05.730 align:middle line:90% windows. 00:04:05.730 --> 00:04:06.690 align:middle line:90% "Hi, I'm Vinney. 00:04:06.690 --> 00:04:08.040 align:middle line:90% You're Ms. Banks, right?" 00:04:08.040 --> 00:04:10.110 align:middle line:84% He didn't give me a chance to answer. 00:04:10.110 --> 00:04:12.960 align:middle line:84% "Let me say first off that we'll be finished in a day or so. 00:04:12.960 --> 00:04:14.215 align:middle line:90% What do you think?" 00:04:14.215 --> 00:04:15.840 align:middle line:84% "The man out front said he didn't know. 00:04:15.840 --> 00:04:17.040 align:middle line:90% When you'd be finished." 00:04:17.040 --> 00:04:18.600 align:middle line:90% "The tall black guy?" 00:04:18.600 --> 00:04:20.550 align:middle line:84% "Yes, and he also said there was a host 00:04:20.550 --> 00:04:22.590 align:middle line:90% of rodent problems in here." 00:04:22.590 --> 00:04:24.330 align:middle line:90% "That's bullshit. 00:04:24.330 --> 00:04:25.890 align:middle line:90% Excuse me, miss. 00:04:25.890 --> 00:04:28.500 align:middle line:84% First of all, like I said we'll be finished in a day or so. 00:04:28.500 --> 00:04:30.240 align:middle line:84% And we ain't seen nothing crawling around 00:04:30.240 --> 00:04:31.590 align:middle line:90% in here except men. 00:04:31.590 --> 00:04:33.330 align:middle line:84% The place has been completely gutted. 00:04:33.330 --> 00:04:35.070 align:middle line:84% Everything is brand new, for God's sake. 00:04:35.070 --> 00:04:36.810 align:middle line:84% Frankie's known for being a jokester, 00:04:36.810 --> 00:04:38.730 align:middle line:90% but today he's pushing it." 00:04:38.730 --> 00:04:39.960 align:middle line:90% Frankie? 00:04:39.960 --> 00:04:43.240 align:middle line:84% What a stupid name for such a handsome man. 00:04:43.240 --> 00:04:45.840 align:middle line:84% He didn't look like a Frankie to me. 00:04:45.840 --> 00:04:47.130 align:middle line:90% "What's this room over here? 00:04:47.130 --> 00:04:49.020 align:middle line:84% This little room over here," I ask. 00:04:49.020 --> 00:04:51.690 align:middle line:84% "Well, that's just sort of an extra large closet. 00:04:51.690 --> 00:04:53.310 align:middle line:84% It's too small to call it a bedroom. 00:04:53.310 --> 00:04:55.590 align:middle line:84% That's why we didn't put it in the ad. 00:04:55.590 --> 00:04:56.970 align:middle line:90% Perfect for a kid, though. 00:04:56.970 --> 00:04:57.863 align:middle line:90% You got a kid? 00:04:57.863 --> 00:04:59.280 align:middle line:84% No, you said you didn't have kids. 00:04:59.280 --> 00:05:00.170 align:middle line:90% Use it for storage. 00:05:00.170 --> 00:05:01.790 align:middle line:90% Whatever." 00:05:01.790 --> 00:05:04.070 align:middle line:84% It was a tiny room, but it still had a window. 00:05:04.070 --> 00:05:06.230 align:middle line:84% I stood there for a moment and pictured myself 00:05:06.230 --> 00:05:09.140 align:middle line:84% playing the piano which would just barely fit in there 00:05:09.140 --> 00:05:11.330 align:middle line:84% I walked over to the window and looked out. 00:05:11.330 --> 00:05:13.880 align:middle line:84% There were real trees back there. 00:05:13.880 --> 00:05:16.610 align:middle line:84% Flower and vegetable gardens and other people's yards. 00:05:16.610 --> 00:05:18.110 align:middle line:84% With all this light, I could finally 00:05:18.110 --> 00:05:20.790 align:middle line:84% have house plants that would be able to live. 00:05:20.790 --> 00:05:22.430 align:middle line:84% I walked back into the other bedroom 00:05:22.430 --> 00:05:23.840 align:middle line:90% and look down the hallway. 00:05:23.840 --> 00:05:26.210 align:middle line:84% The floors were now just wooden planks. 00:05:26.210 --> 00:05:28.220 align:middle line:84% "What are you going to do with the floors?" 00:05:28.220 --> 00:05:31.010 align:middle line:84% "We're laying the finest carpet available in every room 00:05:31.010 --> 00:05:32.690 align:middle line:84% except the kitchen area and bathrooms. 00:05:32.690 --> 00:05:34.290 align:middle line:90% Sort of a beigey color, neutral. 00:05:34.290 --> 00:05:34.790 align:middle line:90% You know. 00:05:34.790 --> 00:05:36.577 align:middle line:90% That suit you?" 00:05:36.577 --> 00:05:38.660 align:middle line:84% "There's no way you could put in hardwood floors?" 00:05:38.660 --> 00:05:40.370 align:middle line:90% "You want the apartment?" 00:05:40.370 --> 00:05:42.368 align:middle line:84% "Yes, if you can lay wood floors and assure me 00:05:42.368 --> 00:05:43.910 align:middle line:84% that the stairwell won't look like it 00:05:43.910 --> 00:05:45.770 align:middle line:90% does for too much longer." 00:05:45.770 --> 00:05:48.770 align:middle line:84% "First off, when you renovate a whole building, miss, 00:05:48.770 --> 00:05:50.450 align:middle line:84% you always save the stairs til last 00:05:50.450 --> 00:05:52.790 align:middle line:84% so they'd be worse off with all the ripping and running the men 00:05:52.790 --> 00:05:53.582 align:middle line:90% do up and down 'em. 00:05:53.582 --> 00:05:54.710 align:middle line:90% Know what I mean? 00:05:54.710 --> 00:05:56.840 align:middle line:84% And hardwood floors, it'll cost you a few dollars 00:05:56.840 --> 00:05:57.830 align:middle line:90% extra for the labor. 00:05:57.830 --> 00:05:59.750 align:middle line:84% And it'll add a few more days to the job." 00:05:59.750 --> 00:06:01.220 align:middle line:90% "How much extra?" 00:06:01.220 --> 00:06:02.930 align:middle line:90% "Not much, if you get pine. 00:06:02.930 --> 00:06:03.470 align:middle line:90% Don't worry. 00:06:03.470 --> 00:06:04.700 align:middle line:90% We can work something out. 00:06:04.700 --> 00:06:06.230 align:middle line:90% You positive you want wood? 00:06:06.230 --> 00:06:08.540 align:middle line:84% They collect dust like ain't no tomorrow." 00:06:08.540 --> 00:06:09.860 align:middle line:90% "I'm positive." 00:06:09.860 --> 00:06:11.313 align:middle line:90% I didn't care about the dust. 00:06:11.313 --> 00:06:12.980 align:middle line:84% When I first walked in here, I'd already 00:06:12.980 --> 00:06:16.070 align:middle line:84% pictured shiny wooden floors, not some drab carpet. 00:06:16.070 --> 00:06:17.660 align:middle line:90% And I hate beige. 00:06:17.660 --> 00:06:20.030 align:middle line:90% It is so boring. 00:06:20.030 --> 00:06:21.590 align:middle line:90% "Frankie! 00:06:21.590 --> 00:06:22.290 align:middle line:90% Frankie!" 00:06:22.290 --> 00:06:22.790 align:middle line:90% he yelled. 00:06:22.790 --> 00:06:24.410 align:middle line:84% "Come in here a minute, would you?" 00:06:24.410 --> 00:06:26.780 align:middle line:84% He walked back into the room, ducking his head 00:06:26.780 --> 00:06:27.740 align:middle line:90% under the arch. 00:06:27.740 --> 00:06:29.720 align:middle line:84% I tried not to look directly at him 00:06:29.720 --> 00:06:32.570 align:middle line:84% because I was thinking that I wish he came with the place. 00:06:32.570 --> 00:06:35.030 align:middle line:84% I tried instead to look indifferent. 00:06:35.030 --> 00:06:38.750 align:middle line:84% "What's up, boss?" he asked in a very sarcastic manner. 00:06:38.750 --> 00:06:41.720 align:middle line:84% "Why'd you tell this here young lady all those lies?" 00:06:41.720 --> 00:06:44.150 align:middle line:84% He threw his arms up in the air and grinned. 00:06:44.150 --> 00:06:46.910 align:middle line:84% And he has a nerve to have dimples. 00:06:46.910 --> 00:06:49.513 align:middle line:90% "I was just kidding, boss." 00:06:49.513 --> 00:06:50.930 align:middle line:84% "One day, all your kidding's going 00:06:50.930 --> 00:06:52.070 align:middle line:90% to cost me money, Frankie. 00:06:52.070 --> 00:06:54.355 align:middle line:84% Anyway, she wants wood floors instead of carpet. 00:06:54.355 --> 00:06:56.480 align:middle line:84% I want you to get over to Friendly Freddy's and get 00:06:56.480 --> 00:06:57.380 align:middle line:90% a estimate today. 00:06:57.380 --> 00:07:00.680 align:middle line:84% Can you have this finished in four or five days?" 00:07:00.680 --> 00:07:04.340 align:middle line:84% "Maybe," he said, lighting a cigarette. 00:07:04.340 --> 00:07:06.500 align:middle line:84% He blew the smoke upwards and my eyes 00:07:06.500 --> 00:07:10.160 align:middle line:84% watched his lips close around the filter again. 00:07:10.160 --> 00:07:13.250 align:middle line:90% I wished I was a cigarette. 00:07:13.250 --> 00:07:15.680 align:middle line:84% "He'll have it done in five days," Vinney said, 00:07:15.680 --> 00:07:17.390 align:middle line:90% "if that's soon enough." 00:07:17.390 --> 00:07:18.737 align:middle line:90% "That's fine." 00:07:18.737 --> 00:07:20.570 align:middle line:84% "Come on down the street to my office and we 00:07:20.570 --> 00:07:21.920 align:middle line:90% can tidy up the particulars. 00:07:21.920 --> 00:07:23.813 align:middle line:84% Oh hell, I ain't got any lease forms. 00:07:23.813 --> 00:07:26.105 align:middle line:84% I have to run to the stationery store and pick up some. 00:07:26.105 --> 00:07:27.920 align:middle line:84% You can help yourself to a cup of coffee. 00:07:27.920 --> 00:07:29.540 align:middle line:90% This won't take but a minute." 00:07:29.540 --> 00:07:32.330 align:middle line:90% "Watch him," Frankie said to me. 00:07:32.330 --> 00:07:34.220 align:middle line:90% "He's Italian." 00:07:34.220 --> 00:07:35.810 align:middle line:84% I followed Vinney down the hallway 00:07:35.810 --> 00:07:37.502 align:middle line:84% and had to brush past Frankie because he 00:07:37.502 --> 00:07:39.710 align:middle line:84% acted like he didn't have any intention of moving out 00:07:39.710 --> 00:07:40.760 align:middle line:90% of my way. 00:07:40.760 --> 00:07:43.340 align:middle line:84% I wanted my breasts to brush against his chest 00:07:43.340 --> 00:07:44.480 align:middle line:90% just for the warmth alone. 00:07:44.480 --> 00:07:46.740 align:middle line:84% But instead, I did just the opposite. 00:07:46.740 --> 00:07:48.710 align:middle line:84% Tried not to let any part of my body 00:07:48.710 --> 00:07:51.650 align:middle line:84% touch his, especially after he flung his arms up over his head 00:07:51.650 --> 00:07:56.000 align:middle line:84% and pressed himself stiffly against the wall. 00:07:56.000 --> 00:07:57.780 align:middle line:84% Something told me I spoke to soon. 00:07:57.780 --> 00:07:58.280 align:middle line:90% Women. 00:07:58.280 --> 00:08:00.155 align:middle line:84% I should have known she was going to run back 00:08:00.155 --> 00:08:01.430 align:middle line:90% and blab it to Vinney. 00:08:01.430 --> 00:08:03.870 align:middle line:84% Why can't she find some place to live in Manhattan? 00:08:03.870 --> 00:08:06.740 align:middle line:84% She don't even look like the type to live in Brooklyn. 00:08:06.740 --> 00:08:08.810 align:middle line:84% I gave the place another once over. 00:08:08.810 --> 00:08:09.350 align:middle line:90% Yep. 00:08:09.350 --> 00:08:11.780 align:middle line:84% I could picture myself living here. 00:08:11.780 --> 00:08:14.270 align:middle line:84% "See you in three weeks," Frankie said. 00:08:14.270 --> 00:08:16.040 align:middle line:84% Now he was back in the living room 00:08:16.040 --> 00:08:17.720 align:middle line:90% driving more nails in the floor. 00:08:17.720 --> 00:08:21.050 align:middle line:90% 00:08:21.050 --> 00:08:22.880 align:middle line:84% When the mover pulled up to my new home, 00:08:22.880 --> 00:08:25.310 align:middle line:84% Frankie was sitting out on the stoop, smoking a cigarette 00:08:25.310 --> 00:08:27.890 align:middle line:84% and drinking a Heineken in a tight white T-shirt that made 00:08:27.890 --> 00:08:29.810 align:middle line:90% him look like a bodybuilder. 00:08:29.810 --> 00:08:32.449 align:middle line:84% Orchards of soft black hair were peeking out from the V, 00:08:32.449 --> 00:08:34.370 align:middle line:90% but I didn't want to stare. 00:08:34.370 --> 00:08:37.730 align:middle line:84% I couldn't tell if he actually worked out or just worked hard. 00:08:37.730 --> 00:08:39.380 align:middle line:84% His face was drenched with sweat, 00:08:39.380 --> 00:08:42.169 align:middle line:84% and it looked like black tears were falling from his temples. 00:08:42.169 --> 00:08:45.410 align:middle line:84% I had to stop myself from walking over and patting 00:08:45.410 --> 00:08:46.460 align:middle line:90% them dry. 00:08:46.460 --> 00:08:49.730 align:middle line:84% Just once in my life, I'd like to live out a fantasy. 00:08:49.730 --> 00:08:51.410 align:middle line:90% But not now, Zora. 00:08:51.410 --> 00:08:53.060 align:middle line:90% Not now. 00:08:53.060 --> 00:08:54.770 align:middle line:84% "Your bedroom floor is still wet, 00:08:54.770 --> 00:08:57.228 align:middle line:84% so you're going to have to put all this stuff in the living 00:08:57.228 --> 00:08:58.160 align:middle line:90% room," he said. 00:08:58.160 --> 00:08:59.390 align:middle line:90% "What? 00:08:59.390 --> 00:09:01.310 align:middle line:90% Vinney told me it was finished." 00:09:01.310 --> 00:09:02.720 align:middle line:90% "It is finished. 00:09:02.720 --> 00:09:05.372 align:middle line:90% It just ain't dry." 00:09:05.372 --> 00:09:06.830 align:middle line:84% I turned to the driver of the truck 00:09:06.830 --> 00:09:08.310 align:middle line:84% and explained the situation to him. 00:09:08.310 --> 00:09:10.970 align:middle line:84% He got out to open up the back, and I put my hands on my hips 00:09:10.970 --> 00:09:12.950 align:middle line:90% and looked up at my new windows. 00:09:12.950 --> 00:09:15.950 align:middle line:84% Well, I'm here, I said, to no one in particular. 00:09:15.950 --> 00:09:18.770 align:middle line:90% Frankie just kept on smoking. 00:09:18.770 --> 00:09:20.443 align:middle line:84% When I'd hired the guy to help me move, 00:09:20.443 --> 00:09:21.860 align:middle line:84% he told me there'd be two of them. 00:09:21.860 --> 00:09:25.040 align:middle line:84% But when he showed up [AUDIO OUT] where I was moving. 00:09:25.040 --> 00:09:27.200 align:middle line:84% So I didn't ask him to come to Brooklyn. 00:09:27.200 --> 00:09:29.270 align:middle line:84% I had carried quite a few things, too, 00:09:29.270 --> 00:09:31.340 align:middle line:84% and now I was tired at the thought of hauling 00:09:31.340 --> 00:09:34.160 align:middle line:90% all this stuff upstairs. 00:09:34.160 --> 00:09:37.850 align:middle line:84% "Moving sure is hard labor," I sighed. 00:09:37.850 --> 00:09:41.990 align:middle line:84% "Yes, it is," he said, and took another sip from his beer. 00:09:41.990 --> 00:09:44.300 align:middle line:84% I thought maybe he'd at least offer to help. 00:09:44.300 --> 00:09:45.710 align:middle line:90% But he didn't. 00:09:45.710 --> 00:09:48.230 align:middle line:84% "Would you mind giving me a hand?" 00:09:48.230 --> 00:09:50.850 align:middle line:90% "I don't work for free." 00:09:50.850 --> 00:09:52.970 align:middle line:84% I've been busting my nuts for the past four days, 00:09:52.970 --> 00:09:54.345 align:middle line:84% trying to get these damn finished 00:09:54.345 --> 00:09:56.000 align:middle line:84% so she could move in like she planned. 00:09:56.000 --> 00:09:58.070 align:middle line:84% And she show up with a scrawny looking white boy 00:09:58.070 --> 00:09:58.880 align:middle line:90% and want my help? 00:09:58.880 --> 00:10:00.053 align:middle line:90% Fuck her. 00:10:00.053 --> 00:10:01.970 align:middle line:84% If this is what she's fucking, I swear to God. 00:10:01.970 --> 00:10:03.470 align:middle line:84% That's what's wrong with Black women 00:10:03.470 --> 00:10:05.750 align:middle line:84% today, running to these white boys for everything. 00:10:05.750 --> 00:10:09.980 align:middle line:84% Women like her don't even give a brother a chance, so fuck her. 00:10:09.980 --> 00:10:12.350 align:middle line:84% Not only was he a handsome creep, I thought, 00:10:12.350 --> 00:10:15.770 align:middle line:84% but he had a nasty, even hostile, attitude. 00:10:15.770 --> 00:10:18.230 align:middle line:84% I still couldn't carry all those boxes up those stairs, 00:10:18.230 --> 00:10:20.720 align:middle line:90% so I said, "how much?" 00:10:20.720 --> 00:10:23.360 align:middle line:84% "Not much," he said, and flicked his cigarette 00:10:23.360 --> 00:10:26.480 align:middle line:84% about three feet away and at the same time jumped off the stoop. 00:10:26.480 --> 00:10:29.390 align:middle line:84% For the next hour, I watched him lift and pull things 00:10:29.390 --> 00:10:30.290 align:middle line:90% off the truck. 00:10:30.290 --> 00:10:33.600 align:middle line:84% Muscles popped up in his arms and shoulders out of nowhere. 00:10:33.600 --> 00:10:35.330 align:middle line:90% He was sweating profusely. 00:10:35.330 --> 00:10:38.450 align:middle line:84% All I kept thinking was, I bet some woman loves to roll over 00:10:38.450 --> 00:10:40.580 align:middle line:90% in those arms at night. 00:10:40.580 --> 00:10:42.440 align:middle line:84% It took close to two hours for us 00:10:42.440 --> 00:10:44.780 align:middle line:84% to get everything except the trunk upstairs. 00:10:44.780 --> 00:10:46.250 align:middle line:84% It was full of records and I knew 00:10:46.250 --> 00:10:48.980 align:middle line:84% it was entirely too heavy for one person to carry. 00:10:48.980 --> 00:10:51.830 align:middle line:84% So I offered to help him, but Frankie refused. 00:10:51.830 --> 00:10:54.500 align:middle line:84% He slung it up in the air then balanced it on one shoulder 00:10:54.500 --> 00:10:56.570 align:middle line:90% as if it weighed 20 pounds. 00:10:56.570 --> 00:10:59.300 align:middle line:84% I paid the driver and ran back upstairs. 00:10:59.300 --> 00:11:02.150 align:middle line:84% Frankie had pushed the larger things against the living room 00:11:02.150 --> 00:11:04.020 align:middle line:84% wall and boxes were stacked everywhere, 00:11:04.020 --> 00:11:05.960 align:middle line:90% including on top of the couch. 00:11:05.960 --> 00:11:08.360 align:middle line:84% I walked to the bedroom and stood in the doorway. 00:11:08.360 --> 00:11:10.760 align:middle line:84% Sunlight was streaming through the windows. 00:11:10.760 --> 00:11:13.160 align:middle line:84% The floors look like strips of gold. 00:11:13.160 --> 00:11:15.710 align:middle line:84% When I felt his presence behind me, I turned around 00:11:15.710 --> 00:11:18.830 align:middle line:84% and my nose grazed those soft black trees on his chest. 00:11:18.830 --> 00:11:22.370 align:middle line:84% My lips felt moist, my heart was about to jump out of my chest, 00:11:22.370 --> 00:11:25.280 align:middle line:84% so I inched backwards and almost fell on the floor. 00:11:25.280 --> 00:11:29.030 align:middle line:84% He grabbed my elbows and pulled me back into the hallway. 00:11:29.030 --> 00:11:32.210 align:middle line:84% "Don't you mess up my floor," he said. 00:11:32.210 --> 00:11:35.600 align:middle line:84% I was nervous, but I willed my mouth to talk. 00:11:35.600 --> 00:11:39.410 align:middle line:84% "You did a wonderful job on the floors, Frankie, really. 00:11:39.410 --> 00:11:43.070 align:middle line:84% I didn't expect them to turn out this beautiful." 00:11:43.070 --> 00:11:45.530 align:middle line:84% "Thanks," he said, turning back down the hallway 00:11:45.530 --> 00:11:46.820 align:middle line:90% and winking at me. 00:11:46.820 --> 00:11:50.120 align:middle line:90% "I try to do everything good." 00:11:50.120 --> 00:11:53.720 align:middle line:84% I guess this was supposed to be his way of flirting. 00:11:53.720 --> 00:11:55.580 align:middle line:84% And it must have been working because all 00:11:55.580 --> 00:11:57.950 align:middle line:84% the air in this place seemed to be disappearing. 00:11:57.950 --> 00:11:59.660 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:11:59.660 --> 00:12:02.960 align:middle line:84% I took a deep breath and prayed I 00:12:02.960 --> 00:12:05.210 align:middle line:84% could say what was necessary without sounding 00:12:05.210 --> 00:12:08.150 align:middle line:84% like I was going through any major changes. 00:12:08.150 --> 00:12:10.790 align:middle line:90% "How much do I owe you?" 00:12:10.790 --> 00:12:13.010 align:middle line:84% "How much did you pay the white boy?" 00:12:13.010 --> 00:12:14.930 align:middle line:84% I wanted to embarrass her because I know 00:12:14.930 --> 00:12:16.580 align:middle line:90% she didn't pay that white boy. 00:12:16.580 --> 00:12:18.470 align:middle line:90% "I gave him $100." 00:12:18.470 --> 00:12:21.590 align:middle line:84% Now why did his eyes light up like that? 00:12:21.590 --> 00:12:22.950 align:middle line:90% "Why, was that too much?" 00:12:22.950 --> 00:12:23.450 align:middle line:90% I asked. 00:12:23.450 --> 00:12:27.320 align:middle line:84% "All the other ads in the Voice ask for about the same." 00:12:27.320 --> 00:12:29.270 align:middle line:84% I felt like a fool for jumping to conclusions. 00:12:29.270 --> 00:12:31.437 align:middle line:84% Something told me she didn't look like the type that 00:12:31.437 --> 00:12:33.200 align:middle line:90% went for white boys. 00:12:33.200 --> 00:12:35.437 align:middle line:84% "I've only got about $30 in cash left. 00:12:35.437 --> 00:12:37.520 align:middle line:84% But if there's a cash machine in the neighborhood, 00:12:37.520 --> 00:12:38.870 align:middle line:90% I can go get more. 00:12:38.870 --> 00:12:41.180 align:middle line:84% I really did appreciate your help." 00:12:41.180 --> 00:12:42.740 align:middle line:90% "Keep your money." 00:12:42.740 --> 00:12:44.030 align:middle line:90% "No, really, you earned it. 00:12:44.030 --> 00:12:46.160 align:middle line:84% You said yourself you didn't work for free." 00:12:46.160 --> 00:12:48.110 align:middle line:90% "I know what I said. 00:12:48.110 --> 00:12:51.560 align:middle line:84% A little charity every now and then ain't going to kill me. 00:12:51.560 --> 00:12:54.560 align:middle line:84% So tell me, are you a Miss or Mrs.?" 00:12:54.560 --> 00:12:56.600 align:middle line:84% He sat down on a box and crossed his arms. 00:12:56.600 --> 00:12:59.120 align:middle line:84% Before I could tell him it was none of his business, 00:12:59.120 --> 00:13:02.870 align:middle line:90% I blurted out a "Ms." 00:13:02.870 --> 00:13:05.330 align:middle line:84% "Oh, so you one of them feminist?" 00:13:05.330 --> 00:13:07.130 align:middle line:90% "What if I am?" 00:13:07.130 --> 00:13:07.940 align:middle line:90% "I just asked. 00:13:07.940 --> 00:13:10.130 align:middle line:90% Does that mean you like women?" 00:13:10.130 --> 00:13:12.320 align:middle line:90% "Give me a break, would you? 00:13:12.320 --> 00:13:13.793 align:middle line:90% Do I look like I like women?" 00:13:13.793 --> 00:13:15.710 align:middle line:84% "Looks don't mean nothing in this day and age. 00:13:15.710 --> 00:13:17.810 align:middle line:84% But to answer your question, no." 00:13:17.810 --> 00:13:20.000 align:middle line:90% "Then you have your answer." 00:13:20.000 --> 00:13:22.128 align:middle line:84% I started looking at box labels to see 00:13:22.128 --> 00:13:23.420 align:middle line:90% which one had the dishes in it. 00:13:23.420 --> 00:13:25.340 align:middle line:84% Not that I really needed a dish right then. 00:13:25.340 --> 00:13:26.940 align:middle line:90% He was making me nervous. 00:13:26.940 --> 00:13:28.820 align:middle line:84% And I had to do something, anything, to keep 00:13:28.820 --> 00:13:30.725 align:middle line:84% moving because he didn't act like he 00:13:30.725 --> 00:13:31.850 align:middle line:90% was getting ready to leave. 00:13:31.850 --> 00:13:34.130 align:middle line:84% And I sure didn't want him to yet. 00:13:34.130 --> 00:13:36.830 align:middle line:90% "Can I ask you a question?" 00:13:36.830 --> 00:13:39.590 align:middle line:84% "Only if it's personal," he said. 00:13:39.590 --> 00:13:42.200 align:middle line:90% "Is your real name Frankie?" 00:13:42.200 --> 00:13:43.460 align:middle line:90% "No, it's Franklin. 00:13:43.460 --> 00:13:44.330 align:middle line:90% Why?" 00:13:44.330 --> 00:13:46.760 align:middle line:84% "You just did not look like a Frankie to me." 00:13:46.760 --> 00:13:49.755 align:middle line:84% "You can call me Franklin, if you want to." 00:13:49.755 --> 00:13:51.380 align:middle line:84% Have I already given him the impression 00:13:51.380 --> 00:13:52.838 align:middle line:84% that I planned on seeing him again? 00:13:52.838 --> 00:13:56.870 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:13:56.870 --> 00:13:57.770 align:middle line:90% Men. 00:13:57.770 --> 00:14:00.590 align:middle line:84% Not only are they presumptuous, but this one here 00:14:00.590 --> 00:14:03.140 align:middle line:90% can read minds. 00:14:03.140 --> 00:14:05.840 align:middle line:84% "You ain't never been married?" he asked, lighting a cigarette. 00:14:05.840 --> 00:14:08.270 align:middle line:84% "No," I said tartly, and started looking for something 00:14:08.270 --> 00:14:09.650 align:middle line:90% he could use for an ashtray. 00:14:09.650 --> 00:14:12.080 align:middle line:84% Something must be wrong with a fine-ass woman like this 00:14:12.080 --> 00:14:13.880 align:middle line:90% and ain't never been married. 00:14:13.880 --> 00:14:15.038 align:middle line:90% "Don't get so touchy. 00:14:15.038 --> 00:14:15.830 align:middle line:90% I was just curious. 00:14:15.830 --> 00:14:17.747 align:middle line:84% What are you going to do with all this space?" 00:14:17.747 --> 00:14:18.830 align:middle line:90% "Put it to good use." 00:14:18.830 --> 00:14:20.055 align:middle line:90% "By yourself?" 00:14:20.055 --> 00:14:21.680 align:middle line:84% He would have to make it sound like I'm 00:14:21.680 --> 00:14:23.570 align:middle line:84% a damn spinster or something, wouldn't he. 00:14:23.570 --> 00:14:26.120 align:middle line:84% "Yes," I said, and handed him a rusty can 00:14:26.120 --> 00:14:27.860 align:middle line:90% I found under the sink. 00:14:27.860 --> 00:14:29.900 align:middle line:84% It already had ashes in it, which 00:14:29.900 --> 00:14:31.610 align:middle line:90% meant it was probably his. 00:14:31.610 --> 00:14:33.950 align:middle line:90% And here, this was my new home. 00:14:33.950 --> 00:14:34.820 align:middle line:90% "How? 00:14:34.820 --> 00:14:35.540 align:middle line:90% Why?" 00:14:35.540 --> 00:14:36.350 align:middle line:90% I ask. 00:14:36.350 --> 00:14:38.900 align:middle line:84% "Because it seems awful funny that a single woman would pair 00:14:38.900 --> 00:14:41.330 align:middle line:84% this much rent with all this space and liberty by herself, 00:14:41.330 --> 00:14:42.650 align:middle line:90% that's why." 00:14:42.650 --> 00:14:46.280 align:middle line:84% "I sing and play the piano and I need all the space I can get 00:14:46.280 --> 00:14:48.170 align:middle line:84% and compared to Manhattan, this is cheap. 00:14:48.170 --> 00:14:51.020 align:middle line:84% Does that answer your question, Franklin?" 00:14:51.020 --> 00:14:52.670 align:middle line:90% He smiled at me. 00:14:52.670 --> 00:14:54.500 align:middle line:90% "A singer, huh?" 00:14:54.500 --> 00:14:56.210 align:middle line:90% "Yes, a singer." 00:14:56.210 --> 00:14:58.400 align:middle line:84% I knew she wasn't no school teacher. 00:14:58.400 --> 00:15:00.360 align:middle line:84% Vinney always getting shit mixed up. 00:15:00.360 --> 00:15:05.020 align:middle line:84% It's surprising he know how to get to work every day. 00:15:05.020 --> 00:15:07.320 align:middle line:84% I spotted a box that looked like whatever was in it 00:15:07.320 --> 00:15:08.790 align:middle line:90% would look like I needed it. 00:15:08.790 --> 00:15:12.040 align:middle line:84% As I went to lift it up, Franklin jumped up to help me. 00:15:12.040 --> 00:15:14.250 align:middle line:84% "What's your name again?" he asked, placing the box 00:15:14.250 --> 00:15:15.360 align:middle line:90% on top of the counter. 00:15:15.360 --> 00:15:16.470 align:middle line:90% "Zora. 00:15:16.470 --> 00:15:18.540 align:middle line:90% Zora Banks." 00:15:18.540 --> 00:15:20.010 align:middle line:90% "That's a hell of a name. 00:15:20.010 --> 00:15:21.023 align:middle line:90% Suits you." 00:15:21.023 --> 00:15:23.190 align:middle line:84% "I know you heard of Zora Neale Hurston then, right? 00:15:23.190 --> 00:15:24.690 align:middle line:90% The writer?" 00:15:24.690 --> 00:15:26.370 align:middle line:84% As much as I hated to admit it, I 00:15:26.370 --> 00:15:29.280 align:middle line:84% was becoming more impressed by the minute. 00:15:29.280 --> 00:15:31.440 align:middle line:90% "I was named after her," I said. 00:15:31.440 --> 00:15:33.030 align:middle line:90% "You recorded any albums? 00:15:33.030 --> 00:15:34.560 align:middle line:84% I'm pretty up on all kind of music, 00:15:34.560 --> 00:15:37.710 align:middle line:84% and your name don't ring no bells." 00:15:37.710 --> 00:15:38.550 align:middle line:90% I know one thing. 00:15:38.550 --> 00:15:40.660 align:middle line:90% His grammar was terrible. 00:15:40.660 --> 00:15:44.430 align:middle line:84% But everything else so far seem to be compensating for it. 00:15:44.430 --> 00:15:45.030 align:middle line:90% "Nope. 00:15:45.030 --> 00:15:46.060 align:middle line:90% No albums yet. 00:15:46.060 --> 00:15:47.040 align:middle line:90% I'm working on it." 00:15:47.040 --> 00:15:48.960 align:middle line:84% "Well, what kind of music do you sing?" 00:15:48.960 --> 00:15:50.082 align:middle line:90% "All kinds," I said. 00:15:50.082 --> 00:15:52.290 align:middle line:84% "Is that what you're going to tell a record producer? 00:15:52.290 --> 00:15:54.900 align:middle line:84% That you sing all kinds of music?" 00:15:54.900 --> 00:15:57.750 align:middle line:84% "You know, you sure ask a lot of questions." 00:15:57.750 --> 00:15:59.160 align:middle line:90% He smiled. 00:15:59.160 --> 00:16:02.610 align:middle line:84% "How else you supposed to learn things if you don't ask?" 00:16:02.610 --> 00:16:04.680 align:middle line:90% God, his teeth were white. 00:16:04.680 --> 00:16:07.320 align:middle line:84% "Well, to be honest that's exactly what I'm working on. 00:16:07.320 --> 00:16:09.515 align:middle line:90% Developing my own style. 00:16:09.515 --> 00:16:12.330 align:middle line:84% I always thought it was about feeling the music." 00:16:12.330 --> 00:16:14.550 align:middle line:90% "Sing me a few notes." 00:16:14.550 --> 00:16:15.840 align:middle line:90% "Sing you a few notes? 00:16:15.840 --> 00:16:17.260 align:middle line:90% Be serious. 00:16:17.260 --> 00:16:19.387 align:middle line:84% First of all, I just barely got inside the door 00:16:19.387 --> 00:16:20.220 align:middle line:90% of my new apartment. 00:16:20.220 --> 00:16:21.700 align:middle line:84% I don't even know your last name. 00:16:21.700 --> 00:16:24.120 align:middle line:84% I'm not in a singing mood, and I'm tired." 00:16:24.120 --> 00:16:25.980 align:middle line:90% "My last name is Swift. 00:16:25.980 --> 00:16:28.740 align:middle line:84% I can understand you being tired and everything, but promise me, 00:16:28.740 --> 00:16:30.240 align:middle line:84% you'll let me hear you sing one day. 00:16:30.240 --> 00:16:32.820 align:middle line:90% I don't meet many singers." 00:16:32.820 --> 00:16:34.500 align:middle line:84% I hope she don't take my curiosity 00:16:34.500 --> 00:16:37.053 align:middle line:84% the wrong way because you can't be too curious with women. 00:16:37.053 --> 00:16:39.720 align:middle line:84% It don't make no difference what kind of questions you ask them. 00:16:39.720 --> 00:16:41.512 align:middle line:84% They always think you've got other motives. 00:16:41.512 --> 00:16:43.950 align:middle line:84% All I want to know is, can the chick sing. 00:16:43.950 --> 00:16:46.890 align:middle line:90% 00:16:46.890 --> 00:16:49.840 align:middle line:84% Franklin got up from the box and stood directly in front of me. 00:16:49.840 --> 00:16:51.130 align:middle line:90% He was doing this on purpose. 00:16:51.130 --> 00:16:52.050 align:middle line:90% I just knew it. 00:16:52.050 --> 00:16:55.500 align:middle line:84% Probably just wanted to see how long it would take me to melt. 00:16:55.500 --> 00:16:57.420 align:middle line:90% "Oh," I said. 00:16:57.420 --> 00:16:59.940 align:middle line:84% "So you think I'll be seeing you again after today? 00:16:59.940 --> 00:17:01.450 align:middle line:90% Is that it?" 00:17:01.450 --> 00:17:04.460 align:middle line:84% "I can guarantee it," he said, walking towards the door. 00:17:04.460 --> 00:17:06.210 align:middle line:84% "We getting ready to start on the building 00:17:06.210 --> 00:17:09.180 align:middle line:90% right next to this one." 00:17:09.180 --> 00:17:11.339 align:middle line:90% Then he was gone. 00:17:11.339 --> 00:17:13.702 align:middle line:84% I stood there looking at the door like a fool, like I'd 00:17:13.702 --> 00:17:14.910 align:middle line:90% been hypnotized or something. 00:17:14.910 --> 00:17:16.650 align:middle line:90% I swear I could not move. 00:17:16.650 --> 00:17:18.635 align:middle line:84% That door kept opening and closing. 00:17:18.635 --> 00:17:20.760 align:middle line:84% And each time it opened, he would just stand there, 00:17:20.760 --> 00:17:22.710 align:middle line:90% looking straight through me. 00:17:22.710 --> 00:17:25.530 align:middle line:84% I had to shake my head back and forth until that door finally 00:17:25.530 --> 00:17:26.520 align:middle line:90% stayed closed. 00:17:26.520 --> 00:17:28.830 align:middle line:84% Then I went over to the sink, dangled my fingers 00:17:28.830 --> 00:17:31.590 align:middle line:84% under the water until they could feel that it was too hot. 00:17:31.590 --> 00:17:35.400 align:middle line:84% I wanted to unpack my books, but I needed toggle bolts 00:17:35.400 --> 00:17:36.750 align:middle line:90% to put the shelves up. 00:17:36.750 --> 00:17:39.540 align:middle line:84% I'm not very good when it comes to doing things like that. 00:17:39.540 --> 00:17:41.010 align:middle line:90% There are things-- some things-- 00:17:41.010 --> 00:17:43.380 align:middle line:84% I just don't want to learn how to do. 00:17:43.380 --> 00:17:45.180 align:middle line:84% I couldn't put the stereo together, either, 00:17:45.180 --> 00:17:46.830 align:middle line:90% because there's too many wires. 00:17:46.830 --> 00:17:48.810 align:middle line:84% I'm hoping one day they'll color code them 00:17:48.810 --> 00:17:51.030 align:middle line:84% so a three-year-old can put one together. 00:17:51.030 --> 00:17:53.700 align:middle line:84% But until then, I'll just have to pay someone to do it, 00:17:53.700 --> 00:17:55.380 align:middle line:90% like I've always done. 00:17:55.380 --> 00:18:00.600 align:middle line:84% The phone company was supposed to have been here by now, 00:18:00.600 --> 00:18:01.770 align:middle line:90% but of course, they're late. 00:18:01.770 --> 00:18:03.540 align:middle line:90% So I couldn't call anybody. 00:18:03.540 --> 00:18:07.490 align:middle line:84% And last but not least, I was starving. 00:18:07.490 --> 00:18:09.240 align:middle line:84% I walked down the dirty stairs and noticed 00:18:09.240 --> 00:18:11.490 align:middle line:84% that the door to the other apartment was cracked open, 00:18:11.490 --> 00:18:12.690 align:middle line:90% so I peeked in. 00:18:12.690 --> 00:18:14.820 align:middle line:84% I saw that beautiful neutral shade 00:18:14.820 --> 00:18:17.080 align:middle line:84% of carpet Vinney was talking about, 00:18:17.080 --> 00:18:22.470 align:middle line:84% which was a disgusting shade of yellow tweed shag. 00:18:22.470 --> 00:18:24.840 align:middle line:84% The heat was piercing and the humidity was thick 00:18:24.840 --> 00:18:26.430 align:middle line:84% when I got outside, and I was trying 00:18:26.430 --> 00:18:28.240 align:middle line:90% to decide which way to go. 00:18:28.240 --> 00:18:29.730 align:middle line:84% When I looked to the far right, I 00:18:29.730 --> 00:18:33.000 align:middle line:84% saw lots of traffic, which meant business so I went that way. 00:18:33.000 --> 00:18:35.490 align:middle line:84% At the corner was a fish market where I bought a half 00:18:35.490 --> 00:18:37.050 align:middle line:90% a pound of fresh scallops. 00:18:37.050 --> 00:18:39.600 align:middle line:84% Right next to it, a vegetable stand that sold everything 00:18:39.600 --> 00:18:41.550 align:middle line:90% from vegetables to Pampers. 00:18:41.550 --> 00:18:44.045 align:middle line:84% I bought broccoli, fresh mushrooms, scallions, 00:18:44.045 --> 00:18:47.070 align:middle line:84% a large bunch of flowers, paper towels, toilet paper, 00:18:47.070 --> 00:18:48.870 align:middle line:90% and white grape juice. 00:18:48.870 --> 00:18:51.420 align:middle line:84% I decided to walk home in the opposite direction 00:18:51.420 --> 00:18:53.430 align:middle line:84% to get a better feel for the neighborhood. 00:18:53.430 --> 00:18:54.990 align:middle line:84% Some guy was standing out in front 00:18:54.990 --> 00:18:57.330 align:middle line:84% of this gorgeous little gourmet shop trying 00:18:57.330 --> 00:18:59.190 align:middle line:90% to entice people to come in. 00:18:59.190 --> 00:19:01.960 align:middle line:84% "Free coffee samples to celebrate our grand opening," 00:19:01.960 --> 00:19:02.460 align:middle line:90% he said. 00:19:02.460 --> 00:19:03.960 align:middle line:84% "You look like a lady with good taste. 00:19:03.960 --> 00:19:04.620 align:middle line:90% Come on in, honey. 00:19:04.620 --> 00:19:05.130 align:middle line:90% Try some. 00:19:05.130 --> 00:19:07.500 align:middle line:90% It's divine." 00:19:07.500 --> 00:19:08.550 align:middle line:90% "Thanks. 00:19:08.550 --> 00:19:10.110 align:middle line:90% Maybe another time." 00:19:10.110 --> 00:19:12.150 align:middle line:84% But after I'd gone only a few steps, 00:19:12.150 --> 00:19:14.610 align:middle line:84% the rich scented coffee lured me back. 00:19:14.610 --> 00:19:16.500 align:middle line:84% He handed me a finely printed piece 00:19:16.500 --> 00:19:19.500 align:middle line:84% of peach-colored paper that described the store 00:19:19.500 --> 00:19:20.640 align:middle line:90% specialties. 00:19:20.640 --> 00:19:23.263 align:middle line:84% All kinds of delicacies, imported foods, breads, 00:19:23.263 --> 00:19:24.930 align:middle line:84% every kind of cheese you could think of, 00:19:24.930 --> 00:19:27.690 align:middle line:84% dried fish, and pickled everything. 00:19:27.690 --> 00:19:29.790 align:middle line:84% I went inside and staring me in the face 00:19:29.790 --> 00:19:33.270 align:middle line:84% were samples of white Scandinavian chocolate. 00:19:33.270 --> 00:19:35.626 align:middle line:84% "Go ahead, it's fabulous," he said. 00:19:35.626 --> 00:19:37.960 align:middle line:90% [LAUGHTER] 00:19:37.960 --> 00:19:40.020 align:middle line:90% My fingers itched with desire. 00:19:40.020 --> 00:19:42.540 align:middle line:90% But I said, "no, I can't." 00:19:42.540 --> 00:19:43.170 align:middle line:90% "Oh, come on. 00:19:43.170 --> 00:19:44.160 align:middle line:90% One little piece won't hurt. 00:19:44.160 --> 00:19:44.660 align:middle line:90% Go on. 00:19:44.660 --> 00:19:46.025 align:middle line:90% Splurge." 00:19:46.025 --> 00:19:48.150 align:middle line:84% The next thing I knew I'd not only eaten the piece, 00:19:48.150 --> 00:19:49.830 align:middle line:84% I'd bought a quarter pound which I vowed 00:19:49.830 --> 00:19:51.570 align:middle line:90% to stretch over a week or two. 00:19:51.570 --> 00:19:54.240 align:middle line:84% I also got some dill, Havarti cheese, 00:19:54.240 --> 00:19:55.920 align:middle line:84% liver paté with some kind of crackers 00:19:55.920 --> 00:19:58.337 align:middle line:84% I'd never even heard of, and a pound of Vienna Roast mixed 00:19:58.337 --> 00:19:59.430 align:middle line:90% with Mocha Java. 00:19:59.430 --> 00:20:01.260 align:middle line:90% "Come back again," he said. 00:20:01.260 --> 00:20:03.570 align:middle line:90% And I assured him I would. 00:20:03.570 --> 00:20:06.060 align:middle line:84% Parts of the neighborhood were still run down. 00:20:06.060 --> 00:20:08.520 align:middle line:84% And although there were scaffolds everywhere I looked, 00:20:08.520 --> 00:20:10.800 align:middle line:84% It would be years before this area was pretty. 00:20:10.800 --> 00:20:13.680 align:middle line:84% "You moved here at the right time," Vinney had said. 00:20:13.680 --> 00:20:15.600 align:middle line:84% "In a few years, everybody and their mother 00:20:15.600 --> 00:20:17.640 align:middle line:84% will be flocking to Brooklyn from Manhattan. 00:20:17.640 --> 00:20:19.012 align:middle line:90% Who can afford that rent? 00:20:19.012 --> 00:20:20.970 align:middle line:84% This is what you call a change in neighborhood. 00:20:20.970 --> 00:20:22.980 align:middle line:84% It's the pits now, but stick around a few years. 00:20:22.980 --> 00:20:24.330 align:middle line:90% You won't even recognize it. 00:20:24.330 --> 00:20:26.940 align:middle line:84% And you're getting this place at a steal, you know." 00:20:26.940 --> 00:20:29.280 align:middle line:84% By the time I got home, I was drenched. 00:20:29.280 --> 00:20:32.820 align:middle line:84% I found the box with the towels in it and took a cool shower. 00:20:32.820 --> 00:20:35.400 align:middle line:84% Afterwards, I located the box with all the cleansers 00:20:35.400 --> 00:20:37.980 align:middle line:84% and scrubbed the kitchen shelves inside and out. 00:20:37.980 --> 00:20:39.930 align:middle line:84% I didn't care that they were brand new. 00:20:39.930 --> 00:20:43.020 align:middle line:84% I never, ever wanted to see another roach. 00:20:43.020 --> 00:20:46.200 align:middle line:84% Then I pulled out the pots and pans, cooked dinner, and sat 00:20:46.200 --> 00:20:48.180 align:middle line:90% down on top of a box to eat. 00:20:48.180 --> 00:20:50.580 align:middle line:90% I sure wished I had some music. 00:20:50.580 --> 00:20:52.440 align:middle line:84% I put the flowers in my coffee pot 00:20:52.440 --> 00:20:54.210 align:middle line:90% and sat them next to my plate. 00:20:54.210 --> 00:20:57.000 align:middle line:84% Lord only knew when I'd be able to afford a dining room set. 00:20:57.000 --> 00:20:59.490 align:middle line:90% My piano comes first. 00:20:59.490 --> 00:21:02.190 align:middle line:84% That night, I slept on the floor. 00:21:02.190 --> 00:21:05.430 align:middle line:84% The couch was buried in boxes, and my platform bed 00:21:05.430 --> 00:21:08.370 align:middle line:84% wouldn't do me much good because I had thrown the mattress out. 00:21:08.370 --> 00:21:10.020 align:middle line:84% I made a pallet of three blankets 00:21:10.020 --> 00:21:12.660 align:middle line:84% and flipped one of them over me like a sleeping bag. 00:21:12.660 --> 00:21:15.750 align:middle line:84% Sometime during the middle of the night, I woke up. 00:21:15.750 --> 00:21:18.210 align:middle line:90% I heard a sound, like movement. 00:21:18.210 --> 00:21:20.790 align:middle line:84% But I couldn't tell where it was coming from. 00:21:20.790 --> 00:21:24.450 align:middle line:84% I was afraid to move, so I just laid there as still as I could. 00:21:24.450 --> 00:21:26.850 align:middle line:84% This was the worst part of living alone. 00:21:26.850 --> 00:21:30.210 align:middle line:84% When you're afraid and you don't have anyone to turn to. 00:21:30.210 --> 00:21:32.370 align:middle line:84% The noise was coming from the refrigerator. 00:21:32.370 --> 00:21:33.540 align:middle line:90% Please, God, I thought. 00:21:33.540 --> 00:21:35.520 align:middle line:90% Don't let it be a mouse. 00:21:35.520 --> 00:21:38.520 align:middle line:84% I got up slowly and went and knocked on the refrigerator 00:21:38.520 --> 00:21:39.210 align:middle line:90% door. 00:21:39.210 --> 00:21:43.150 align:middle line:84% If it was in there, it could run and I wouldn't have to see it. 00:21:43.150 --> 00:21:46.230 align:middle line:84% I waited a few seconds, then opened the door slowly. 00:21:46.230 --> 00:21:48.540 align:middle line:84% But there was nothing inside except my leftover dinner 00:21:48.540 --> 00:21:50.580 align:middle line:84% and the things I'd bought earlier. 00:21:50.580 --> 00:21:54.120 align:middle line:84% I felt relieved, but to be sure, I opened the freezer. 00:21:54.120 --> 00:21:57.900 align:middle line:84% A plastic box was filling up with oval-shaped ice cubes. 00:21:57.900 --> 00:22:02.130 align:middle line:84% I have completely forgotten about that damn ice maker. 00:22:02.130 --> 00:22:04.860 align:middle line:84% I laid back down and stared at the white walls, which 00:22:04.860 --> 00:22:06.930 align:middle line:84% now look blue because of the street lights 00:22:06.930 --> 00:22:09.090 align:middle line:84% shining through them, the windows. 00:22:09.090 --> 00:22:11.970 align:middle line:84% I closed my eyes, but they wouldn't stay shut. 00:22:11.970 --> 00:22:13.800 align:middle line:90% They kept seeing blue. 00:22:13.800 --> 00:22:15.900 align:middle line:84% I got back up and went over to the counter 00:22:15.900 --> 00:22:19.420 align:middle line:84% and broke off a piece of chocolate and laid back down. 00:22:19.420 --> 00:22:22.320 align:middle line:84% This is how it always starts, Zora, I thought, 00:22:22.320 --> 00:22:25.800 align:middle line:84% then stomped to the bathroom and flushed the entire contents 00:22:25.800 --> 00:22:29.250 align:middle line:84% of the bag, including what was in my mouth, down the toilet. 00:22:29.250 --> 00:22:32.340 align:middle line:84% I turned on the fan and stood in the middle of the floor 00:22:32.340 --> 00:22:34.290 align:middle line:90% and listened to it oscillate. 00:22:34.290 --> 00:22:36.390 align:middle line:84% The blankets felt cool on my bare feet, 00:22:36.390 --> 00:22:37.980 align:middle line:90% but it was hot in here. 00:22:37.980 --> 00:22:39.870 align:middle line:84% I laid down on top of the blankets 00:22:39.870 --> 00:22:40.920 align:middle line:90% and tried to go to sleep. 00:22:40.920 --> 00:22:43.170 align:middle line:84% But when my breasts began to rise and fall, 00:22:43.170 --> 00:22:46.020 align:middle line:84% I knew my body was waiting for something. 00:22:46.020 --> 00:22:47.790 align:middle line:90% Not tonight, I thought. 00:22:47.790 --> 00:22:49.848 align:middle line:84% But my nipples were hard and throbbing. 00:22:49.848 --> 00:22:51.390 align:middle line:84% This was their way of letting me know 00:22:51.390 --> 00:22:53.880 align:middle line:84% they needed to be touched, kissed, something. 00:22:53.880 --> 00:22:57.030 align:middle line:84% Without realizing it, I had cupped both hands over them 00:22:57.030 --> 00:22:59.520 align:middle line:84% and began massaging them in circles. 00:22:59.520 --> 00:23:01.320 align:middle line:90% But they weren't my hands. 00:23:01.320 --> 00:23:03.300 align:middle line:90% They were his hands. 00:23:03.300 --> 00:23:05.400 align:middle line:84% A heart started beating between my legs 00:23:05.400 --> 00:23:09.000 align:middle line:84% as his hands slid down my belly and rubbed inside my thighs. 00:23:09.000 --> 00:23:11.780 align:middle line:84% My whole body felt like an electric current was flowing 00:23:11.780 --> 00:23:13.530 align:middle line:84% through every vein, and I couldn't help it 00:23:13.530 --> 00:23:14.910 align:middle line:90% when my legs flew open. 00:23:14.910 --> 00:23:17.940 align:middle line:84% And by the time his hands found the spot, moved, and pressed, 00:23:17.940 --> 00:23:19.230 align:middle line:90% I couldn't stop shivering. 00:23:19.230 --> 00:23:20.490 align:middle line:90% My body jerked. 00:23:20.490 --> 00:23:23.010 align:middle line:84% It felt like a hot wet sponge being squeezed. 00:23:23.010 --> 00:23:25.530 align:middle line:84% And I had to grit my teeth, squeeze my eyes tighter, 00:23:25.530 --> 00:23:27.600 align:middle line:90% so I wouldn't lose his image. 00:23:27.600 --> 00:23:30.420 align:middle line:84% Then I felt the tears easing out from my lids, 00:23:30.420 --> 00:23:33.150 align:middle line:84% and my hands dropped to the floor. 00:23:33.150 --> 00:23:35.940 align:middle line:84% I'm so tired of this, I said out loud. 00:23:35.940 --> 00:23:39.360 align:middle line:84% And I wiped my eyes, slid them under the sheet, 00:23:39.360 --> 00:23:41.370 align:middle line:90% and pulled it up to my chin. 00:23:41.370 --> 00:23:44.340 align:middle line:84% And that's when I thought I heard Franklin say, 00:23:44.340 --> 00:23:46.110 align:middle line:90% "don't stop now." 00:23:46.110 --> 00:23:50.340 align:middle line:84% So I pulled the pillow and set it inside my arms 00:23:50.340 --> 00:23:53.190 align:middle line:90% until it felt like a man again. 00:23:53.190 --> 00:23:56.630 align:middle line:84% "Come on, baby," he said, "give it all to me." 00:23:56.630 --> 00:24:00.570 align:middle line:90% And that's exactly what I did. 00:24:00.570 --> 00:24:04.840 align:middle line:84% In the morning, a knock at the door woke me up. 00:24:04.840 --> 00:24:06.360 align:middle line:90% I was in front of the stove. 00:24:06.360 --> 00:24:08.880 align:middle line:84% The blankets were overrun by a stack of boxes. 00:24:08.880 --> 00:24:09.930 align:middle line:90% I looked at my watch. 00:24:09.930 --> 00:24:11.770 align:middle line:90% It wasn't even 7 o'clock. 00:24:11.770 --> 00:24:14.820 align:middle line:84% I got up from the floor, put on a cotton bathrobe, 00:24:14.820 --> 00:24:18.720 align:middle line:84% and opened the door without even thinking to ask who it was. 00:24:18.720 --> 00:24:21.810 align:middle line:84% Franklin was standing under the arch. 00:24:21.810 --> 00:24:24.090 align:middle line:90% I wipe the sleep from my eyes. 00:24:24.090 --> 00:24:26.400 align:middle line:90% "You drink coffee?" he asked. 00:24:26.400 --> 00:24:27.420 align:middle line:90% "Yes," I said. 00:24:27.420 --> 00:24:29.420 align:middle line:90% And let him in. 00:24:29.420 --> 00:24:29.940 align:middle line:90% Thank you. 00:24:29.940 --> 00:24:33.290 align:middle line:90% [APPLAUSE] 00:24:33.290 --> 00:24:36.000 align:middle line:90%