Running the floating book shop, I meet a great variety of people. Jonathan, who's in his 20's, has the mind of a child and a sweet disposition. At first he would only point to the wares, smile, say: "Nice books," and continue walking. He moves about on his own and works at the local supermarket, bagging groceries. He proudly wears his I.D and work shirt. I called him "Mr. Stop n Shop." Our conversation was always brief. The other day he passed with his mom and I said Hi, even though he was was looking away. They had passed together a few times through the years and I sensed he didn't want to talk, so I said nothing. This time I spoke without thinking and he tensed. As they walked away it was obvious his mom wasn't pleased and she seemed to be lecturing him. Since then, he has kept his distance and I haven't said a word. Although I am stung by the slight, I know where the woman is coming from and know no one will ever love Jonathan as she does. She has done a great job with him. I imagine she warns him to beware of predators who would take advantage of him. She has no idea who I am. She may see me as someone incapable of holding a real job, someone so desperate enough to prey on the vulnerable. I don't like it, but I won't go against her wishes.
Tomorrow morning Sue-Ellen, who has taught History at Kingsborough Community College, is embarking on an adventure. She worked a couple of nights a week this summer tending bar at hot spot on the Boardwalk in Coney Island and was asked if she would be interested in working on a yacht. She has sub-let her apartment to a friend and will be driving to southern Florida, where her mom lives. There she will take a five-day course and then wait for a one-year assignment. When she first moved in to the building at the corner of Avenue Z & E. 13th, she donated a lot of books, all of which sold, so she has a soft spot in my heart. She then mentioned a husband, whom I've never seen. She doesn't wear a wedding band. Perhaps she was protecting herself from unwanted advances. I doubt she's reached 30 yet. I'll miss seeing her. Good luck, Sue.
It was one of those days when the floating book shop was almost like a regular business. My thanks to all the buyers, especially Stephanie, who purchased Close to the Edge.
Vic's 4th Novel: http://tinyurl.com/bszwlxh
Vic's 3rd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/7e9jty3
Vic's Website: http://members.tripod.com/vic_fortezza/Literature/
Vic's Short Story Collection (Print or Kindle): http://www.tiny.cc/Oycgb
Vic's 2nd Novel: http://tinyurl.com/6b86st6
Vic's 1st Novel: http://tiny.cc/94t5h
Vic's Horror Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/cyckn3
Vic's Rom-Com Screenplay on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/kny5llp
Vic’s Short Story on Kindle: http://tinyurl.com/k95k3nx
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