It Ain't Tiffany's

Part 1

Hi my names Gary Player. No not really anything as cool as that. I'm just Gary Jones. I have read all these stories on Nifty and thought I would tell you mine. Its really simple you see. It all started when I was about six maybe seven. We went on a vacation to the Midwest. I was enamored by all the open spaces and that you could breath out there. Unlike where I grew up, there was room. I grew up in the City. New York City that is. I always dreamed of getting out. I'm pushing forty now. I live in Manhattan and I want to get out. I just got a notice that my rent is going up again. Fuck you would think 3500 a month is enough. I get by but, I cant really save much. I got about twenty thousand in the bank and with what I make I should have a ton more then that. But, the city is expensive. I look at farms on my phone and dream. No I'm not going to tell you Green Acres. I'm not a farmer. I don't want to be a farmer. I just want to live in a nice little town. Maybe outside of it a bit. But even in the Midwest the towns people have tons of space. In my life I have never once cut grass. There's none to cut in apartments. I want a yard. That would be nice. Maybe a little garden. I watch gardening shows. They are fun to me. Its weird I guess but yet I am weird. Well, not weird exactly just different. I am a boy lover. OK Maybe it is weird I don't know. I do know lots of people hate me. I got caught about twenty years ago. I was twenty and he was twelve. Didn't matter that he wanted me to do everything I did. He begged me for months. Finally one day I relented and gave in. His dad came home cops were called. So I'm a sex offender. Not a great thing to be that's for sure. I get stares in my building all the time. It doesn't matter it was nearly twenty years ago. With people it could have happened yesterday. Once a deviant always a deviant. But, that is the last time I've had any sexual contact with anyone. Not that I haven't had offers from men and women for that matter. But, they don't interest me at all. I like boys and strictly boys. Boys between about 11 to 14 or so. So its just best I keep to myself, do my job and keep my head down. I don't have any friends because well. Once they find out. Its like leprosy I tell you. But, with leprosy at least it eventually kills you. But, I so want to get out of this place I think.

I grab my phone and start looking at farms to calm myself after getting the notice. I scroll through and am looking and see a house in Dayton Ohio. I don't know anything about Dayton Ohio. This house caught my eye and for one reason and one reason alone. Its nine thousand dollars. I am like you can buy a house for 9000 holy crap. I pull it up and it sure enough is a house. Not burned out but a real house still standing straight. So it didn't look like it was about to fall over. I look at the pictures. Well, yeah its going to need some work for sure. But, with what I have and with what it costs I think I can swing it and own a house. A real honest to goodness house with a yard and everything. I pull up my bank statement on my phone. I have just over twenty two thousand dollars. I think no way the listing has to be a mistake. Its got to be like 90,000 no way is a house that cheap. I look at all the pictures again. I like what I see. Its three bedrooms two bathrooms on two stories. Has a big ass front porch. I always wanted to sit on the front porch. You know like on Andy Griffith and shit like that. Just be cool. I accidentally click contact realtor. What they hell I think. I key in my information. Its Saturday afternoon I sure dont expect a response. But within fifteen minutes I have an email about the house. It is indeed 9000 I cant believe it. Less then three months rent for a whole house. Holy shit. I'm thinking. He asks to call him when I have a spare moment. I'm like fuck it. I hit call. It rings on the other end. I say to the guy answering.

“Yeah Hi this is Gary Jones I just got your email about the house.”
“Oh yes sir. It is indeed nine thousand dollars. But, I think if you offered 7500 he would take it. Was an old guys house he died and his son just wants to be rid of it.”
“That would be even better.” I say.

“I don't mean to sound rude. But, this is a rather dark neighborhood. If you understand what I mean.”

I knew exactly what he meant. Racist fuck. I decide to play with him a little.

“So you mean a lot of coloreds then?”
“Yeah and Mexicans too.”
Now mind you my sister is half black and married to a Puerto Rican. Race means shit to me. Its not what defines you. Your character does.

“Oh my. I dont know. I'm just a white guy from New York.”
“Its not so bad really. I mean the gangs aren't like they used to be. It is a good buy though.”
I hear him changing his tune a little. Not sure if he figured out I was yanking his chain or he just wanted to make a quick buck.

“It is that.”
“I can show it to you whenever you want.”
“Well like I said I am in New York. I would have to fly out there. Does Dayton even have an airport?”
“Oh yes sir we have the Dayton International Airport. Its a fine airport. Nothing like JFK or anything but, a good airport anyway.”
“I don't know I will have to see about work and everything. I will call you back with what I decide.”
“Yes sir. I look forward to hearing from you.”
“See ya.” I say and hang up. I immediately go to the travel sights. Sure enough. I can get a nonstop flight from JFK to Dayton. On Delta who would have thought that.

I go ahead and book the flight. I call my office and leave a voice mail saying I wont be in until Wednesday. A family emergency came up. I call the Realtor guy back.

“I will be at the airport at 11am on Monday. Do I need to rent a car? Or are there cabs available.”
“No I can get you. What flight?”
I'm thinking really. This guy is hard up for a sale or something.

I tell him and he says he will see me Monday morning.

I hang up and I look at the pictures again. Should I even consider this?
I call my sister.

“Hey Nikki I'm moving to Ohio.”
“Doesn't surprise me. When are you moving?”
“I'm not yet, I was just getting your goat.”
“Still wouldn't surprise me. You hate the city.”
“I don't hate it. I like it. I just want some room to breathe. My whole life nothing but apartments.”
“Gary you have said this a million times to me.” She says obviously not interested.

“I am going to see a house Monday.”
“No your not.” She says now interested.

“Really I found a house in Dayton Ohio for get this nine grand.”
“No way.”
“Way.”
“So are you going to buy it?”
“I don't know the guy said lots of coloreds and Mexicans live there. Don't know if I can get along with them or not.”
“Oh you fool.” She says laughing at me. “Did he really say coloreds?”
“No he said it was rather dark.”
“So niggas then.” She says.

“Don't say that. You know I don't like it.”
“I know I'm just fucking with ya.”
“Sis I think I am really going to do it.”
“I'm glad. I know you will be happy there. What are you going to do for work?”
“I don't know. I guess I could probably get a job doing some IT work.”

“Wont pay shit. Not in Ohio anyway.”
“Whats it matter if my house is paid for. No more huge ass rent payments.”
“You got a point. Want me to go with you?”
“No I got this.”
“Ill go.”
“I know you will. I love you for it.”
“You love me no matter what.”
“Of course I do.”
“Hey seriously be careful though. I don't want you going somewhere I don't know and getting killed or something.”
“Honey I am sure that Dayton Ohio is safer then New York.”
“Well. Maybe just be careful.”
“Yes mom.”
“Fuck you.”
“No fuck you.”
“Love you.”
“Bye sis Ill call when I know more.”
“You fucking better.”
“I let you know everything.”
“Yeah and sometimes I wish you didn't.”
“Liar.”
“Yes.”
Click.

My sister is such great fun. She is two years younger then me. So I was always protecting her and beating the shit out of any boy that dared hurt her. Shes pretty so there were a lot. I am not saying I am a big fighter. I don't really want to fight. But, if I have to I can hold my own. I'm no Billy bad ass by no means. Like I said earlier I'm pushing 40. I'm six feet and weigh around 175 or so. So I'm not a little guy. But, I ain't big either. When I was in jail for child molestation I had to fight a lot. I didn't like it. It was so fucked up. But, that is the past and I am trying to get past it. But, the government and no one else will let a person ever I mean ever forget they did something like that. Christians seem to be the worst. They are like god forgives your sins. Then you tell them the crime you committed. Its a whole nuther story let me tell you. Anyway so on Sunday I packed and got ready. I called a car service. Thought about a cab because I don't drive. I know how but parking in the city is outrageous. So I have never owned a car. If I move I suppose I will get one maybe. I dont know yet. So Monday finally got here and I go to JFK and I fly out to Dayton. I have a window seat and I am loving looking out and seeing all the fields and open spaces. I am really hoping this shit works out. Because I cant imagine not having someone live under you. Next to you. On top of you. Once I had a great apartment in a four story walk up. It was on the top floor and in a corner of the building. I hardly ever heard my neighbors. Sadly it was torn down for some gaudy looking piece of shit. Such is the City I guess. So anyway I land at Dayton and I step off the plane and walk up into the terminal. I see a guy there he is around my age. He is slightly gray headed and slim. Hes shorter then me though. Probably around five feet eight. Hes smiling when I get off and holding a sign with my name on it. Gary Jones. I walk up and introduce myself. He does the same and we head to his car and go to see the house. In the car he starts out with.

“I have a lot of really nice houses in town for sale. I question if a middle aged white guy would feel comfortable in this neighborhood.” He says.

“I feel comfortable anywhere. I cant wait to see it. I have always dreamed of just sitting on the porch.”
“Well it has a nice one on it for sure. It will need a lot of work though.”
I'm thinking this guy wants me to buy a more expensive house so he can make more money. I'm thinking fuck that. I want this house. I think I do anyway. I guess we will see.

We pull up and the house looks just like it did on the website. Its in not great shape outside. It definitely needs painted. I'm thinking I can do that. Its not so big. We walk up on the porch and he opens the door. I walk in and I am in love already. The living room we walk into is half the size of my apartment in the city. It even has a fire place.

“Does the fire place work?”
“As far as I know. But, you can have the fire department come out and check it. Or a chimney sweep. I assure you if it does work it will need cleaned for certain.”
We walk into the dining room. I look around. Then the kitchen. Holy shit its bad. It has no cabinets. It has no appliances. It doesn't even have a sink. Well there is a lot of money I think. I'm adding in my head. Fridge probably 800 or so. Stove 500 maybe. Cabinets. Counter tops. Its going to be a lot. He shows me the down stairs bathroom. Cool I think claw footed bath tub. The rest is all old as well. I guess its fine for now I will paint it but, not replace anything just yet. Maybe down the road a few years. We go upstairs and I like the steps. They look nice. We get to the top of the stairs and I turn into the first bedroom. Its nice and roomy. We check out the other two and they are big as hell. I see the bathroom and Its like downstairs its old but, looks OK. For now anyway. We go to the basement and I kind of roam around. I'm looking for things like termites and what not. I'm checking all the things the websites I looked at all day yesterday told me to check.

“Looks like the furnace is pretty new.” I say.

“Two years old."
“Nice.” I look around some more. I'm thinking maybe I can have a little wood shop or something like that down here. Maybe I always thought it would be fun. Never had a chance to do it though. I did notice that the roof was fine. Not in perfect shape but, good for maybe ten years. We go out and I inspect the detached garage. Looks sad poor thing doesn't even have a door on it. But it looks sound enough. I tell him I want to inspect the attic. He takes me back inside and I look around and make sure there isn't any obvious water damage. No point in buying something that you have to do massive work to even if it is cheap. I am on a budget here. I'm certainly not rich. I climb down the narrow pull down stairs.

“OK tell them I will give them seven grand today. But, I want immediate possession as well.”
“But, sir.”
“No I made my decision. Call and offer.” I tell him.

“I feel I should warn you that there are gangs in this neighborhood.”
“OK $6500 then.”
“I'll call.” He says not pleased.

I hear him talking and not really hearing him. I'm looking around and thinking what I will bring with me and what I will have to get when I get here. What I'm going to do and what color to paint the house. The agent walks over to me.

“He wont take less then 7200.”
“Tell him all give him seven. No banks just a wire transfer.”
He goes back and talks to the man a minute. He comes back and says to me.

“We have to go sign papers at the office. But, other then that its yours.”
I look around and smile. I am thrilled. No more city life for me. I am in the country. My closest neighbor is like two hundred feet from me. I got space lots of space. Nice. So we go to his office I meet the man selling it. He seems like a dick. I don't talk to him much. I just sign and then transfer the money. We leave and the agent takes me to the hotel I told him I'm staying at. I really figured it would take a couple days. But it went so fast. I am here two more days unless I can transfer my flight. I will pay if I have to I want to get back home. Which is here now. But, I want my stuff and my house. Once I get checked in I call the airline and they are more then happy to help since they got me for another hundred and fifty dollars. But, its all good I tell myself. I call my sister next.

“Guess whose a buckeye?”
“I am going on on a limb here. You bought the house?”
“I sure as hell did. You so have to see how massive it is. Its seventeen hundred square feet. You know what that wold cost in Manhattan. Holy fuck I wouldn't want to guess.”
“Wow. That is big.”
“It has a big ass yard too. I'm gonna be mowing grass this summer. It already looks like it needs it.”
“What the hell is a buckeye anyway?” She asks me.

“Its like a nut thing grows on a bush. Cant eat them though.”
“Never heard of em. But, I am excited for you Gary.”
“Realtor told me there are gangs in the neighborhood. Wanted to warn me.”

My sister jut laughs and says “Did you tell him you grew up in Harlem?”
“Didn't come up for some reason.” I say laughing.

“I am happy for you though. Still be careful though.”
“You know me I'm always OK.”
“So far.”
“Yeah well so far is enough for me. I got to get going I just wanted to tell you I got the house.”
“I'm so happy for you. When are you moving?”

“Tomorrow.”
“You cant go that fast.”
“I'm going to try. But, no it will be in a day or two though.”
“We have to get together before you move to hick land.”
“I'm so looking forward to getting out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Its going to be great.”
“I truly hope its everything you hoped it would be.”
“Me too.”

“Why don't we have lunch tomorrow?” She says.

“Sounds good. Your buying right?” I say half joking.

“Sure you just bought a house you cant afford shit now.” She say laughing.

“See ya sis.”
“Love you bro.”
We hang up and I am just so fucking excited I cant hardly contain myself. I turn on the TV and watch hours after hour of ridiculously stupid television. I take a break and head down to the little diner in the hotel and have a nice dinner. I am surprised at how cheap it is. I pay and give the waitress a nice tip. She seems like she likes her job and enjoys people. I head back to my room and look at rental trucks and things like that. I book one for Tuesday morning. I think about it and think if I should hire a couple guys to help me load it. Then I think if I do that I will have to hire guys in Ohio to help me. I decide if I cant move it by myself the next tenant can have it. I call my landlord and tell him I wont be renewing my lease. He is kind of upset because I not only pay my rent I pay it early. I then go through a checklist of things I need to get done tomorrow. Seeing as how I already got all the utilities turned on to the house I am good on that front. I cant believe no deposits. I guess I do have pretty good credit is why. I fiddle around and finally am sleepy. I go to sleep and am up the next morning and headed back to New York. I have the front desk call a cab and I am and soon landing at JFK. For the last time coming home. I smile at the thought that after this I will be a tourist in the city. I get a cab outside and head home. Once I get there I look at my things. I think crap I got a lot of shit. I walk down and go to a few stores bodegas and get some boxes. I pack them and still have a ton of shit left. Moving sucks. But, at least I will never do it again I think which makes me smile. I get everything packed after going out two more times for boxes. In the middle of that I met my sister for lunch. We had a nice time. She told me her husband wished me well. We get along just fine But, we just have nothing in common. I like him hes good to my sister. But,we aren't friends and never will be. We have a nice lunch and part ways. Her saying she is going to come and see me. I say sure. I don't believe her. But, you never know she may. So the next morning I go to the police department and tell them I'm moving. A must I don't want to be arrested in Ohio after I just bought a house. Its a must if you are an S.O. It was great fun as always. A root canal would be better. After that I head to my job. I tell her I am quitting effective immediately. My boss is sad to see me go. She knows I do good work and don't stir any shit. She cuts me a check for my vacation pay and days off I had accrued and never taken. Pretty cool I got a check for 9 grand. So bully for me. I go and get the truck next, and I park it in front amazingly there are spaces for me. A miracle. I sing as I park the truck. I get started and I have it loaded by two. I go to the deli down the block and get a sandwich chips and a coke. I walk back climb in the truck and look forward to the next ten hours of driving. Because I know once I get there I am home. My forever home. I start driving and run into traffic just outside the city. I'm stuck in it for two hours. I wont miss this I think as I finally break free. I drive through New York enter Pennsylvania. I get hungry so I stop just before the Ohio border. I have a nice meal at a truck stop and get back on the road. I finally make it to my house at about three in the morning. I'm so hyped up from all the energy drinks I had on the trip I just say fuck it and start unloading the truck. I turn on the living room light and tada it works. Fantastic I think. I did bring light bulbs and know exactly where they are and I also made sure I got toilet tissue handy too. One never knows so its best to be prepared. I go through the house and flip on switches I put bulbs in where I need to and its surprisingly not too many. I go out and start unloading the truck. I work my ass off and by seven am its all in the house. I set up my bed and fall face first on it when its made. I just lay there a minute and then I'm out like a light. I wake up around noon and it takes me a second to realize where I am. When I do I smile and think. Its mine all mine. I splash some water on my face and head downstairs. I look at where the stove is supposed to go and I see its an electric stove socket. OK I think check. I look and the fridge spot is just there. No need to worry about anything special there. I figure got the truck use it and go get my appliances. I walk through my house of many boxes now and go to the truck. I punch in the GPS on my phone hardware stores and it tells me how to get there. I buy a nice stove and a decent fridge. Guy kept trying to sell me an automatic ice maker. I'm like for a hundred and fifty bucks I can make ice. It ain't hard. I get back to the house and lower the ramp on the truck and wheel in the fridge and stove. I un crate them and hook them up. Both seem to be working perfectly. I figure out where to take the truck back and do so. I call a cab and they take me home. I got a couple lawn chairs for the front porch at the hardware store and I sit down on the porch after I get a glass of water. Right from the tap. Crazy huh? So I am sitting on the porch and I see and old man sitting on his porch acrossed the street. He waves at me and I wave back. After a few minutes I see him walking over. Hes an old man. When I say old hes got to be like ninety maybe older. Its hard to say. He doesn't move very quick and he finally makes it over to my porch.

“Mind if I come up and sit a spell?”
“No sir. I got two chairs didn't know why. Don't know a soul in Ohio.”

“Where ya move from?”
“New York City.”
“The big apple huh?”
“Yes sir.”
He runs his fingers over his three or four day stubble.

“Never been. Always thought it might be interestin. Jus never got round to it I guess.”
“Its not so great. I mean sure it has lots of stuff. Anything you would ever want to do is there. But, that's the problem. Its all there along with millions of people.”
“Mighta been interestin though. I'm Joe Green by the way.” He says extending his hand to me.

“Pleased to meet you. I'm Gary Jones.”
“Pleased for sure.” He says shaking my hand.

“You want some water or something. I really just got water and Coke right now. But, you are welcomed to either.”
“No sir. I'm fine. Jus fine.”

Me and Mr Green talked for hours. He has lived here his whole life in the same house. He as born it it he said. Interesting man. It was immediate that I liked this man. I think he likes me too. I see the school bus stop next to his house and a little girl and boy get off the bus.

“Hold on a second.” Mr Green says and stands up and leans on the porch rail.

“I'm over heah. He hollers at the kids. Who turn and race over to the porch. They climb up and are instantly next to the man arms draped over his shoulders from the little boy and the girl is hugging his arm. Cute kids I think. The boy is about seven I would guess and the girl a year younger at six. Just a guess but, I am pretty good at kids ages. Wonder why?

“Why you ova heah Mr Green?” The little girl asks.

“I'm visitin wit our new neighbor.” He says.

“But, hes white.” The boy says.

“Don't matter none to me. He a good man. All that matter to me.” Mr Green says to them. Seems to satisfy them.

“So where you from?” The little girl asks me.
“I'm from New York City.”
“Why you leave. New York supposed to be fun.”
“Well, it is fun. But I just wanted to be away from all the people. It just gets to be too much. Its a great place and I do love it. But, I just don't want to live there anymore.”
“Thas cool.” The boy says.

“Wheres yo car?” The boy asks.

“I don't have one.”
“How come you ain't got no car?” The girl asks.

“I never needed one before.”
“How you get to the sto?”The girl asks.

“I walked it was around the corner from where I lived.”
“You walk all that way.”
“No it wasn't far it was like a block.”

“You gottsta get you a car mister.” The boy says.

“The man ain't gotta get no car ifn he don wan one. Leave the man be.” Mr Green says.

“They are fine sir. They are just curious is all. Here I got some pictures on my phone if you want to see them.” I say pulling my phone out of my pocket. I had two kids right in front of me looking at my phone as I scroll through the pictures. They look and comment on the pictures as I go through them. I show them pictures of Central Park and my apartment. I actually have a picture of the grocery store for some reason. They seem to like the pictures. Once I'm done I put my phone up. The boy goes and sits on Mr Greens lap. Mr Green puts his old hand around the boys tummy and he leans back. The girl looks kind of upset and sticks her tongue out at her brother and promptly sits on my lap. I am at a loss what the hell do I do. Here I am a sex offender on the front porch with a little girl on y lap. If anyone is looking for something to fuck with me about its right here. I am almost panicked as she leans back against me and grabs my hand and puts it on her tummy. When she leans back its just felt so nice. I felt all my worries just fade away. It felt so calming.

Mr Green just watches and doesn't say a word.

“These young uns is my neighbors. I keep an eye on em for a while till their mamma gets home from workin. She a good women though. She work two jobs to make a life for these here kids. Yep hard workin woman fo sho. Gotsta make em dinner tonight. You welcome to join us if you want to Gary.”

“Well I was just gonna order a pizza I was thinking.” As I say this I see both kids lick their lips at the thought of pizza. I'm a sucker for a kid I know wants something. I cant help it. I didn't get a lot as a kid we grew up pretty poor so I sure know what its like to want something and not be able to have it.

“I was thinking I just get a couple have you all stay with me for dinner so I can get to know my new neighbors better.”
The boy spins his head up and looks at Mr Green.
“Can we Mr Green?”
“Yeah can we Mr Green? Please.” The girl adds

“I reckon it be alright. But, you bes tell Mr Jones thank you.” The old man says to them.

“”Thank you Mr Jones.” The kids both chime.

“Yeah I ain't had pizza in a long time. Might be good change.” Mr Green says.

“It sho will. Thanks again Mista Jones.” The little girl said. She is fiddling with my hand. I have a ring that has a spinner on it. Its a great thing to tinker with when your nervous. I show her its on my other hand.
“Look my ring spins.” I say to her.

“Thas cool.” She says as she starts spinning it. “Where you get this at?”
“I don't recall. Some store in the city.”
“Shoot I want one. Its so cool.”

“I like to fiddle with it when I get nervous. It calms my nerves down to be able to fiddle with something.”
“She listens and just looks at it and keeps spinning it slowly then fast. She keeps cocking her head from one side to the other as she does. Shes a cute little girl. She wearing a pink set of overalls. She has on a pretty white long sleeved shirt. Her hair is on micro braids. Which kind of surprises me. Because I know in the city women pay in the hundreds of dollars to have this done. Not to mention that it takes hours. The boy is cute as a button. He has the beginning of an Afro. Personally I like to see black people with natural hair. I think it looks nice. That and it feels so cool. He is wearing jeans and a button up blue oxford that's untucked. Both have on tennis shoes. They aren't the best looking ones probably Walmart I think. Hey I can shop at Walmart now. They have them in the city but, none were close to me. So I say out loud.

“Hey I can shop at Walmart now.”

“Sho you can. Why cant you shop at Walmart?” The girls asks me.

“I could have. But, there wasn't one any where near me. So I didn't go there. Now I can.”
“You ain't neva been in no Walmart befo?” The boy asks me.

“Nope never been in one.”
“Thas weird.”
“I know huh?” I say.

“I been to Walmart a million times.” The girl says.

“Cool.”
“If you take me I can show you where everythin is at.” She says still messing with my finger.

“I guess I will have to take a cab or a bus to the Walmart.”
“You need a car.” The boy says.

“Maybe I do. Never needed one before.”
“Yeah get you a Charger. They are tight.” The boy says.

“Let the man be Kenny. If'n he don't wanna car. He ain't gotta have no car.”
“I didn't say I didn't want one. I just said I never have had one.”
“You know how ta drive?” The girl asks.

“Sure I know how. I used to rent a car and go vacation in the Catskills. Its so nice up there. The air is clean and the people are nice. I thought once about living there and riding the train into the city to work.”
“Why dintcha?” The girl asks.

“I decided I didn't want to be on the train four hours a day t go to work and come home.”
“Makes sense.” She says still messing with my ring. She apparently thinks its pretty cool. I take it off and hand it to her. She starts messing with it. She puts it on her thumb and its still too big. She keeps trying to spin it but the ring keeps moving. She grabs my hand and slides it back on my finger gently. Then starts messing with it again.

“Now Jenny maybe he took that off. Cuz you is buggin him.” Mr Green says.

“No sir. Jenny wasn't bothering me. I just thought she would like to play with it not on my hand.” She looks up at me and smiles a beaming bright white smile. I grin back at her.

“So Mr Green what time do you usually have dinner? What around seven or eight?”
“Shoot no. We eat around five. We ain't big city people eating so late.”
“Really five?” I ask kind of shocked.

“Yep roun five o'clock ever day.”
I glance at my watch and its around four now.

“I guess I better call and order now then so it will get here on time.”
“Where you gonna call?” Jenny asks.

“I don't know. Who is best?”
“Pizza King.” Jenny says.

“Nuh uh. Pizza hut is better.”
“Well I never had either of them. Mr Green which is best?”
“I like Cassanos better.” He says.

“I knew you'd pick her side.” Kenny says folding his arms over his chest looking miffed.

“Excuse me?” I say.

“Yes suh?” Mr Green says.

“I'm confused. Jenny says Pizza King he says Pizza Hut you say Cassanos. I'm a bit confused.”
“He looks at me and smiles.

“Its Cassanos Pizza King.” Mr Green says.

“Oh.” Is all I say. I pull out my phone and google the number. I order two pies one with the works the other just cheese. I like just cheese. I figured they would want the works. I pay for it with my credit card. I put my phone away. I feel like an idiot now because I had to ask what my address was. Idiot I think. I own a house and don't know the address yet.

“Mr. Jones you gonna like this pizza.” Jenny says to me.

“Its good but, Pizza Hut is better.” Kenny says.

“We will get that kind next time. Hows that sound Kenny?” I ask.

“Sound good to me.” He says smiling. I like his smile. Hes got no front teeth except one on top has worked its way in. Its a cute smile. I would pay to watch him eat an apple though. Funny shit if you've never seen a boy with no front teeth trying to eat an apple you should. I really need to figure out how I'm going to go shopping because left over pizza if there is any sure wont last.

“Let me up sweetie I want to go get a soda.” I say to Jenny.

“I get it for you.” She says as she hops down.

“I guess that would be all right. You want one too?”
“Please?” She looks at me with her big brown eyes. I look at her and think. She can have anything she wants.

“Of course you can. Kenny, Mr Green either of you want a soda?” I ask.

“Yeah I do.” Kenny nearly shouts.

“I wouldn't mind a coke.” Mr Green says.

“I better help you then. Four is a lot to carry with big hands let alone little girl hands.” I say and stand up to go help her. We walk in the front door and we walk back to the kitchen.

“You sure got a lot of boxes.”
“Yeah I haven't started unpacking yet.”
“I can help if ya want.”
“I appreciate the offer. But, I don't know where I am going to put anything yet.”
“If you change yo mind. Jus let me know.” She says very grown up sounding.

“I sure will.” I say smiling and rub the top of her head. I get the Cokes out of the fridge I hand her two and I take two. We walk out and she says.

“I like yo table.”
“Thanks it was my grandmas forever and when she moved into a home she gave it to me.”
“Its pretty.”
It is pretty its an old oak table with eight chairs. I never really use it. I got a little table I had in my kitchen. I imagine I will continue with that. Seeing as how I wont ever have anyone else living with me. Its just to hard to explain to someone. Besides that I am not really interested in men or women. Just boys about ten to fourteen. Once we get outside I hand Kenny and Mr Green their sodas.

“Thank you sir.” Kenny says.

“Your welcome.” I say.

Mr Green nods at me. I nod back.
“He a good boy. Yes suh he is. They both good kids really. I ain't never had no problems outta neither of em. They always polite.”
“Thas cuz mamma would beat us if we was rude to someone.” Jenny says.

“Uh huh.” Kenny says.

Looks to me like that's happened a time or ten from their reactions.

We sit and talk a while as we wait for the pizza to arrive. Once it does I take it in and set it on the table. May as well use it. I get some paper plates out and some paper towels. We all sit down and I open the box.

“What the hell is wrong with this pizza?” I ask.

“Whatchoo mean?” Jenny asks.

“Its cut all funny.”
“Oh you be talkin bout the Chicago cut. Here we cut our pizza like that.” Mr Green says.

“Weirdest thing I have ever seen. Cutting pizza into squares. Silliness I tell you. I open the other that is loaded. Holy shitting cow. It is so loaded with stuff I see now why they cut it like that. In a pizza slice that much stuff would just fall right off. The little squares it stays in place. Cool. I think as I watch the kids get a few pieces after Mr Green made them wash their hands. I did get out soap already. I'm not a heathen. Well technically I am. But, I'm not uncivilized.
I start eating and its good mind you. But it ain't pizza I am used to. Its kind of crisp and its sauce is different but, nice. I like it OK but, again it ain't New York pizza. I got some things to get used to I guess. No one is really talking while we eat. The kids did ask if they could have more. I told them if they leave hungry its their fault. To this I was granted two lovely smiles. They ate about six pieces each. Both getting some of each. Mr Green did the same. Me I ate like a pig I had about ten pieces. Mind you they are small. Not a big slice. That way I probably had three slices worth. Anyway I guess I liked it better then I thought seeing as how I ate so much. But, I hadn't really eaten anything yet either. After we get done I throw the paper plates away and put the left overs in fridge. I do put several pieces on a plate and cover it with foil as well. We decide to go back out and sit. Its getting pretty crisp outside now. Mr Green says.

“I'm getting chilly. I reckon me and the younguns will had over to my house now.” He says.

“I need to start unpacking anyway. I guess I put it off enough already.” I say.

“I really can help you. If you want.” Jenny says.

She has asked twice now. It seems she is either really helpful or really noisy to see what I have. Not sure which.

“Well, I suppose if you want to you can help for a while. If of course that's OK with Mr Green.”
“Sho its OK. I see how she be liking you. She a good judge of character. Her mamas las boyfrien she say he ain't no good. Sure nuff one day he come home drunk started trying to whip on the kids. Their mamma wasn't havin it so he started to try beatin on her. He learn real quick not to do that. She beat him pretty good.” Mr Green says chuckling.

“Well, I will remember not to make her mad at me then.” I say.

“No you don't wan that.” Jenny says.

Kenny is rubbing his butt. “No sir you don wan that at all.”
I can see she spanks her kids. I am OK with spanking I guess. So long as its not abuse. Sometimes its a fine line. Cant stand to see a child abused. So Kenny and Mr Green head over to their house and Jenny and I go in. I leave the front door open just so no one can say anything. I start in and I find my good dishes. I have Jenny stand on a chair and put them in my curio cabinet. I almost left it its so damn heavy. But, it was grandmas too and I just couldn't leave it.

“These sure are pretty plates.” She says as shes putting them up.

“Yeah I got them a long time ago. I liked them so I thought why not?”
“You got pretty stuff.” She says looking around.

“Well, it comes from lots of years of buying stuff I guess. I figure why buy something that I am not going to like. So I wait until I can afford what I want.”
“Makes sense.” She says as she admires another plate before she puts it up. I start putting up a box in the living room. Its mostly books so I put them on the shelf. The rest is just some knick knacks I've collected over the years. Jenny is done with that box and I look up at her when she comes into my vision.

“I done with that.” She says. I look over and she has set the plates in and pushed them back all the way and leaned one of each size plate up to display them. I had never thought about it. She has also put all the cups on saucers. It looks really good. So I have to tell her.

“Gosh Jenny that looks really nice. I like the way you set it up.”

“Thanks Mr Jones.” She says and smiles. I finish with the book case and she looks at it and kind of frowns.

“What?”
“It looks all bunchy.”
“Huh?”
“It look bunchy.” She says and she starts moving things around on the shelves. Once she is done she looks at it and smiles.

“See now it ain't all bunchy.”
“Well Ill be. I'm just going to have to let you put everything up that people can see. Your really good at it.”
“You think so?” She says smiling.

“I wouldn't lie to you.”
She smiles and kind of has her tongue between her teeth.

“Thanks.”
“I believe in giving compliments when they are due.”
“What you got nex?”
“I guess this next box you can put up. It goes on the TV stand.”
I say and move a box over by the TV and the stand. She opens the box and starts putting things on the stand. Then she grabs a few things from the shelves and puts them over there. Then she puts TV stand stuff on the shelves. To be honest my living room never looked so good. Shes got the knack for interior design. If you can consider what I own any kind of design at all. She takes an item out of a box and looks at it.

“Whats this?”
“Oh that's silly. A friend got me that. Its called the TARDIS. Its from a TV show.”
“I ain't never seen it.”
“Its an English TV show. Its kind of fun. Its a man or woman named the doctor and they go through time and space and have adventures that usually save the world from destruction. I like it.”
“Sounds cool.” She says and places the TARDIS on the stand next to the TV. I like it there. We work about two hours. Me putting things up and her moving them. I'm totally OK with it. Everything she moves looks better where she put it. We get done with the downstairs in about an hour and worked on the upstairs for an hour as well. I made one of the bedrooms my office and have my desk and shelves in here. She puts everything up for me as I put together my computer and get it all hooked up. Everything looks good. She excuses herself to go to the bathroom. I notice she isn't back for a few minutes. Well it may be another calling. I think. After about ten minutes I finish everything up and think I better go check on her. I go and the bathroom is open no Jenny. I hear something in my room and shes in there arms deep into a box. She has put away almost all my clothes for me.

“You didn't have to do that. I could have gotten it.”
“You was busy. I can help I'm a good helper.” She says

“You sure are. My house would have looked all bunchy if it wasn't for you.”
“I know.” She says smiling and gets back to work. I open the case with my shirts and suits in it. I start hanging them in the closet.
“You got nice suits.” She says.

“Yes I used to work in an office. I had to wear them.”
“Whatchoo do?”
“I work on computer systems.”
“So you smart then.”
“Not really. Just average I guess.”
“Nah computer guys all is smart. But, you don't look all nerdy.”
“Thank you I think.”

She smiles and starts putting up my socks. She is putting them in the top drawer not the bottom like I usually have them. I think I can change it later. Once we get done with that she and I put away the bathroom things.

“All done.” I say smiling.

“We sho is.” She says grinning. “Look good too.”
“It does because you helped. Me I just throw things wherever.”
“I noticed.” She says smiling.

“Well, since we are done I guess you better head over to Mr Greens house.”
“I reckon.” She says looking down.

“What were you thinking?”
“I was wanting to watch a movie on that big ole TV you got.”
“I tell you what. After I meet your mom and everything maybe we can do that one night.”
“Cool. She gonna say yes I know it.” She says smiling.

“I pull out my billfold and all I got in it is five bucks. She earned a hell of a lot more then this. I hand her the five.

“I will give you some more when I get to the bank.” I say extending it to her.

“I didn't do it for no money. I did it to be friendly.” She says and snags the five. “But, I ain't stupid neither turning down no money.” She says smiling.

I laugh at her antics.

“Your silly. I like that.”
“You need to be more silly I think.” She says.

“Maybe so. Oh by the way I made a plate of pizza for your mom for when she gets home. Shes probably going to be tired and hungry.”
“Oh OK.” She says.

“I put enough on there for if you and Kenny want more you can as well.” I say to her.

“Cool.” She says smiling. We head to the kitchen and I get the plate covered with foil out of the fridge. Jenny takes it and I walk her to the front door and since its getting dark I watch her cross the street and enter Mr Greens house. She waves at me once she starts in the door.

I go in shut the door and start watching a movie. On my big ole TV. I hear Jenny say. Shes a sweet girl. Got a real flair for decorating that's for sure. So I choose a movie finally and start watching it. Before its halfway over I pass clean out on the couch. I wake up and the TV is off and the sun is starting to come up. I head to the kitchen and start to make some coffee. I scratch my head and open the fridge and see the pizza boxes. I open one up and put a piece in my mouth. MM good. I say like im a cave man or something. Actually makes me think of the line in the World According to Garp. When she is telling how men are and she inserts his penis and he cums all he can say is MM good. OK it wasn't an orgasm but its pretty damn good cold. I wait impatiently for the coffee to get done. It takes forever. Finally I pour a cup and head to the bathroom upstairs. I go in and turn on the water and let it get hot. I have just a tub I'm not so thrilled about that. But its OK for now. I get the temperature a good amount and plug the tub. I head to my room and undress. I grab a towel and head in there. I climb into the tub and the warm water engulfs my body it feels so good I moan. I relax until the water starts getting cool. I wash up and wash my hair as well. I get out and let the drain out. It starts gurgling. I dry off and have the towel in my hand as I walk out of the bathroom. I see Jenny standing right in front of me. I look at her and I quickly cover myself.
“I'm sorry Mr Jones.” She says still looking at where my cock is. I guess she is curious. I cant blame her. If I saw her naked I would look too. Nothing sexual just curiosity, “My mamma wanted me to see if you was up she want to talk to you.”
“I will be over shortly.” I say to her.

“OK.” She says and races down the stairs and out the door smiling the whole way.

I am like well I better make sure my lock works on my door. I'm kind of embarrased too. I get dressed quickly and head over to their house. I knock and as my knuckles start to wrap the door Kenny opens the door.

“Hey Mr Jones.” He says smiling.

“Hey Kenny. Your sister said your mom wanted to see me.”
“Yeah sho.” He says having me follow him out to the kitchen.

“Hey mamma Mister Jones is here.”
A lovely sensuous black woman turns around. She is just drop dead gorgeous. I mean I'm not interested in women at all. But, I would be tempted if she ever offers. I mean that's how lovely she is.

“Thanks for the Pizza Mr Jones. My kids say you a nice man. So is you? Is you a nice man.?”
“I would like to think so. I do need to tell you a couple things about me first. I need to let you know that seventeen years ago I was arrested and convicted of having sex with twelve year old boy.”
“You do anything since?”
“No ma’am. I haven't had sex with anyone since then.”
“You was what like 20?”
“Yes ma’am.”
“He want you to do stuff or you just do it?”
“Well it was over time I guess. But, he was a friend of mines son. He came to me and told me he was gay and he knew I was because he heard his mom talking on the phone to someone. He begged me to teach him stuff. I kept saying no no no. I just cant. One night I was watching him and he kept after me all night about it. Finally I said I would. Just as soon as I started to kiss him his mom came home. We weren't even naked. I did I admit I did touch him through his sleeping pants. Even he says that's all we got to. But I spent several months in jail. Twenty eight to be exact and then I have to register as a sex offender for ever.”
“You want my kids?”
“No ma’am.” I say honestly and quickly.

“Aight. I believe you. I can check yo story anyway.”
“Yes you can that's why I was honest. I have no intention about lying to anyone about anything. I also need to tell you that earlier when Jenny came over she saw me getting out of the tub. I covered myself as quick as possible. But, I wasn't expecting her so I was walking from the bathroom to the bedroom. I do apologize.
“Fo what. My kid walking in yo house and walkin up on you like that. Jenny get in here.” She kind of hollers the last part.

Jenny is in like a shot.

“Did you jus walk up in this mans house?”
“Well I knocked.”
“So he dint answer you jus stroll in like its yose?”
“No mamma it wasn't like that.”
“How was it?” She says putting her hand on her hip. I know this is not going to be good.

“Well it was. I well..... it was like you says it was.” She says.

“I thought so.” She spins her around and gives her a swat on the butt. Not hard but enough it stings I'm sure. Especially from her intake of breath through her teeth.

“Now you tell Mr Jones you sorry for walkin up in his house like that. Embarrass the po man getting outta the tub not expectin no kids up in his house.”
“I'm sorry Mr Jones.” She says rubbing her fanny.

“Its OK I just had to tell your mom because...”
“I seen you naked.” She says smiling.

“Get on up outta here girl.” Her mom says to her.
She does just that.
“You want some coffee?” She asks me.

“Actually that would be great. I was going to have a cup after my bath and then well Jenny said you wanted to see me.”
“Sit down Mr Jones. How you take your coffee?”
“Just black is fine.”
“I likes a little sugar in mine.”
“I do that sometimes.”
She pours two cups and she sits down putting one in front of her and one in front of me. She grabs a package of Newport's and takes one out and lights it. Oh it smells amazing. I quit smoking ten years ago and every now and then one smells amazing. Usually they smell like shit. But every now and again. I eyeball her cigarette as she takes a drag watching the blue smoke get sucked in her partially opened mouth.

“That looks so good.” I say to her.

“You smoke Mr Jones?”
“No not in about ten years. But, I loved it when I did it.”
“Oh me too.”She says taking another drag from her cigarette. I watch and can feel the rush as the nicotine hit your lungs.

“You want one Mr Jones. I think you in love with mine.” She say sliding the pack to me. One pops out just perfect. Fuck it I think. I take one out and use her lighter to light it. I take a drag and inhale. Oh my it felt amazing. That rush. I took another hit and it was nice too. We sat and talked a good hour. Every time she would light a new one she would offer me one. I declined all the other offers. But, that cigarette was nice.

“So what a white man move to this neighborhood for?” She asks.

“Its cheap.”
“Good a answer as any.” She says laughing.

“Well I try to be truthful.”
“What you do for a livin?” She asks.

“I repair internet systems and do IT work."
“Yeah Jenny say you was smart.”
“I'm not smart believe me.” I say.

“We can argue that. But, I do know you is nice. My kids can be at yo house anytime you don't mind them there. I know you ain't gon do nuthin with em. If you did they would tell me anyway. My kids thatta way.”
“No worries not interested in anyone. Especially kids.”

I kind of lied to her there. But, I meant kids her kids age. Little ones. I'm certainly not judging if you do. That's your business. So we talk a bit longer and she tells me some jokes that are hilarious. Shes smart.
“Well, I gotsta get ready for work Mr Jones but it sho was nice talkin to ya. Maybe we get some chicken tonight.” She says pulling my leg. Laughing while she is saying it.”
“Cant do it and spoil ya.” I say laughing back at her.

“You have a good day Mr Jones. She says. As we get to the door she opens it. As I walk through the door she hugs me.

I hug her back and she smiles at me.

“It look like you need a hug Mr Jones.”

She holds me a good minute. Its nice getting a hug. I don't recall the last one I ever got. After she release me I look at her.

“I think I did need that.” I say and she smiles at me.

“You welcome anytime Mr Jones.” She says. I step out and she closes the door behind me. I walk down her driveway past her car. Its a light blue Crown Vic and it looks like it is very well taken care of. I head back to the house and sit down in front of the TV and veg out for about three hours. I get hungry so I decide I will make a sandwich. I go to the kitchen open the fridge and see they pizza boxes and some cans of Coke.

“Well shit.” I say to the empty fridge. I go and grab my phone and look up a cab company. I find one and put in my request to go to Walmart. I am weirdly kind of excited to go in a Walmart for some reason. I get on my shoes I kicked off and grab a jacket as its a bit chilly out. I sit and wait a while and the cab finally arrives. I get in and we go go Walmart. Out front is a car lot. I'm like why not look I got a little money I can get a car with. I walk over and am looking at a car and the salesman is out like he was shot from a sling shot.
I look around and even drive two cars. I see it. Its just what I really need. Its a truck. Its a ford f150 with four doors.
“How much is that?” I say pointing to it.
“Its 13.”
“Oh. I say and look at it kind of sad.”
“We can work on that price a little.”
“I don't know if you can work as much as I need you.” I say to him.

“No pressure or nothing. How bout we just take her for a spin.”
“Alright but, I cant afford it.” I say.

We drive it around and man its fun to drive. Big old truck will help me get all the things to fix my house I'm thinking. I can go 13 I just don't want to. Just because I never had a car doesn't mean I dont know the game.
“Yeah she sure is nice. But, Like I said I cant afford it. I can only do like 10.”
“Oh we couldn't let her go for that. Let me go see what I can do,” He says.

Now the game begins. Its me trying to figure out the least amount he will take for it and him trying to figure out how high I might go for it. He comes back a minute later.

“I can go 12 that's about the best I can do.”
“Well that's a shame I really liked it. I never had a car before and it was going to be my first. I can go 11 that's about it.”
“How bout we meet in the middle and call it eleven five.” He says holding out his hand to shake mine.

I nod and shake his hand. I think it was a fair price. Its actually what I wanted to pay for it. We go in and sign paper work I do a money transfer and the title and keys are mine. He puts a temporary tag on the back of it and I go climb in. I got a big damn truck I'm thinking as I start it up. I hit the gas a little and it sounds nice. I put it in gear and head to the Walmart as I had intended. But now 11 five lighter. But Kenny is right. I do need a car here. What am I going to do rent a truck every other day getting stuff for the house?

I go into Walmart and fuck its huge. I mean if you never been in a Walmart. Its like a soccer field under a roof. I mean big fucking store. I get a cart and some guy says hi to me. What the fuck does he want I think. I push my cart around and get loads of groceries. I start walking around and I see tools. Well shit I need tools now. I put a bunch of them in the cart too. I go and check out and am stunned I only spent $324 I mean I got tools and everything. No wonder America loves this place. I take the stuff out to my new truck. I smile as I hit the key fob and it unlocks. I load the groceries and tools into the back seat and head for home. I have to program into my phone to find home though. Its OK I will learn. I can navigate the NYX Subway system. Dayton Ohio ain't shit compared to that. I head home and make it in good time. I pull up in the drive and start unloading the truck. Once I'm done I put all the groceries up and head out to the porch. I see Mr Green sitting on his porch. I wave at him. He waves back. I head over.

“Want some company?”
“Sho Sho come on up.” He says.

“I walk up the three steps and sit down in a rocking chair he has there.
“See you got you a truck.”
“Yes sir. Figured it would be good for all the work I'm going to do to fix up the house.”
“Make sense to me.”
“Didn't make sense to get a car then have to rent a truck all the time.”
“No sir it sho don't. You want some tea or something.”
“I don't really like tea. But, thank you.”
“Its alright. Got some kool aid for the kids if you wan some of that?”
“I ain't had that since I was a kid. You know what that sounds pretty good. I think I will have a glass of that.”
“Be right back.” He says and walks in the house. He comes back out a minute later with a jar full of Kool aid for me. Its blue and fuck if I know what the flavor is supposed to be. But it tastes good and its iced cold. Its a little warmer now so its nice.

“This is good. Aint had it in forever.”

“Yeah I drink it some too.”

We sit and visit about half an hour when the bus stops in front of the house. Kenny and Jenny get off all smiles waving bye to their friends. They come up to the porch and Kenny says.

“You get you a truck?”

“Yes I did Kenny. I thought about you saying I need a car. I thought about and it decided you were half right. I needed a truck. Seeing as how I'm going to be fixing up the house some.”
Kenny smiles at his being right about something. I smile back because how can you not. Kenny goes and sits on Mr Greens lap and Jenny doesn't stick her tongue out this time at him. She smiles at him and sits on mine.

She immediately starts fiddling with my ring. To be honest it feels kind of nice. Relaxing I guess.
“So you gonna take us for a ride?” Jenny asks.

“I dont have to go anywhere.” I say.

“So we can just go for a ride.” She says.

“Maybe I will come up with something.” We all sit and talk until about 430 then I giggle.

“Whatchoo laughing at Mr Jones.” Jenny asks.

“Nothing something your mom said to me earlier. I am going to do it to get her goat.”
“Oh whatchoo gonna do.” Jenny asks.

“She was joking and said some chicken would be good tonight. I was thinking We could all drive down to KFC and get a bucket of chicken.”
“Shoot ya.” Kenny says.

“Mr Green You want some chicken?”
“I always say yes to some good KFC chicken.”
“Me too. Lets go find KFC.” I say and Jenny hops off my lap. Today she is wearing a brown skirt with a blue polo. Kenny is wearing jeans with a blue Polo. I guess its kind of a uniform. Not sure. Anyway we go and climb in the truck. I make the kids get in back because of airbags and stuff. Not sure how it really works. Just know kids don't ride in the front anymore. So they get in back and I help them fasten their seat belts. Mr Green is in and has his belt fastened when I climb in. I turn it over and off we go.

“This is a nice truck.” Kenny says.

“I think so and thank you Kenny.”
“Yeah its a real nice truck. Jenny says.

“Thank you Jenny.” I say to her.

“Jus turn up here and its on the right.” Mr Green says.

I do just that and before you know it we are in drive thru. I place my order and get a chocolate chip cake. Sounds good anyway. We get back to my house and I get real plates for everyone and we pass around the food. I get a breast and a thigh. Yum. Cole slaw a biscuit and mashed potatoes. Look out heart here it comes. I think as I take the first bite of chicken. My taste buds explode. Oh I do love KFC.

“Thank you Gary for dinner.”
“No Problem Mr Green glad to do it. Damn I forgot how good KFC is.” I say.

“Yep they cook a good bird.” Mr Green says.

“I like there potatoes.” Kenny says.

“I think they got good biscuits. And the chicken too.” Jenny says.

After we get done eating I make a plate for their mom. I put a few wings on there because they said she likes the wings. I put on some of everything else and cover it with foil. After we clear the table. That is Jenny and me. Mr Green doesn't have to hes old as dirt. But, I thought Kenny should have contributed some. I'm a bit disapointed in him for that. But, hes seven what do I expect?

After we finish they head back over to Mr Greens house. Them all thanking me again for dinner. Me telling them I enjoyed it. I head back in and turn on the TV and start thinking about what I want to do with the house to make it not only better but make it mine. I mean really mine put my touch on it. I decide I don't want to take out the bath tubs. They are just too cool. I do want to update the sinks though. Also need to put cabinets in the kitchen. Sure the shelves are OK for now. But, not permanent that's for sure. I think I want to refinish the hardwood floors all in the downstairs. I'm thinking to just carpet the upstairs. Because I'm thinking cold floors bare feet and winter time. Nope going to carpet upstairs for sure. I am half watching a show when I hear a knock on the door.

I get up to see who is knocking on my door. I open it.

“Well hi Dee how you doing tonight?” I say smiling.

“You funny Mr Jones.” She says coming in with her plate in her hand. “I figure I come and eat with you and visit if you OK with that?”
“Of course come on in.” I say making room for her to enter. “So how was your day at work?”
“Long. Always long. I wished I woulda went to school like everbody told me to do. She says taking the foil off the plate.
“Want me to heat that up for you?”
“Nah I likes it cold too.”
“I'm going to get me a Coke you want one.”
“That would be great.” She says.

I go and get us two cokes. I get her a glass because well shes a lady. I pour it for her and take it out to the living room. She has sat on the chair and is using the coffee table to eat off of.

“So why dont you go back to school?”
“Cant afford it.” She says and takes a bite.

“I think they have government programs that help people go back to school. I know for sure you can get a Pell grant and that pays for school and some extra usually. I bet there are all kinds of grants for single moms to go back to school.”
“You think so?” She says looking at me serious.

“I would bet on it. How about when your done we go upstairs to my office and google that shit.”
“Aight.” She says and takes another bite.

I cant believe how lovely she is. I've never wanted a women before. But, as I thought before. If she offered I may take her up on it. Not that she ever would. I'm an old white guy kind of OK looking. But shes just stunning. When shes done I take her plate its paper and throw it away. I walk upstairs her behind me and we go into my office. I wake up my computer and google in college help for single mothers.

“Well there you go.” I say pointing at the search results. There are millions. “Why dont I let you look at these and see if anything will help and we will go from there.” I say. I get out a pen and paper for her to write down anything she may want to remember later. I head downstairs and start watching my program again. She comes down an hour later. She sits down looking off into space.

“What did you find?”
“That I'm stupid. I been killing myself working two jobs scraping by most months. Not making it others. All this time I coulda been going to school and get me a real job. One that pays me good and have insurance and everything.”
“So what do you want to study?”
“I always wanted to be a nurse. Maybe a social worker.”
“So when do you start?”
“Aint sure yet. Got to look at the web sight for the colleges now. I'm kinda excited.” She says smiling.

“I'm kind of excited for you.” I say smiling back.

“It gone be a whole different world for me and my kids.”
“Yeah it is. A nice one where you work one job and make more then enough to get by. Not only get by but save and maybe take a vacation to like Disney World or somewhere fun.”
“Yeah we going to Disney World when I graduate. She says smiling. We talk a while longer about her going back to school. Shes getting pretty excited and heads home to start looking up school information. Wow it is kind of exciting. I mean I move and maybe changed her life forever for the good. That is an awesome feeling. I hope it works out for her. I know nursing school isn't easy. But, she seems pretty smart. I think she will make it. If she can get the funding and be able to go. I think happy thoughts for a while and decide to head to bed. Its been a long day. I get naked and climb into bed. Usually I wear sleeping pants but, I chuck that idea as I live in my own house now. Not some apartment. I like it and it feels nice and I have a nice wank before bed. Once I cum and clean myself up I am asleep in seconds. I wake up the next morning as the sun is coming up. I think two things immediately. One I have to pee. Two I'm starving. So I take care of the first need first. I let the water flow and after a while I'm thinking I'm never going to stop. I eventually do and head to the kitchen. I thought about grabbing something to put on. But decide I may starve to death if I take the extra seconds to get a robe. I head downstairs padding with naked feet. I step in some dust or something and decide I need to get cleaning supplies. I left most of mine because they were pretty old. Besides I want to get one of those steam mops. Watched an infomercial about it once. Always wanted one since. I grab a couple eggs from the fridge. Grab the milk and add some to the eggs ive broken in a bowl. I start mixing it with a fork and who strolls into my kitchen but Jenny.

“Mr Jones you ever wear clothes?” She asks.

I decide you know what fuck it. I'm naked you walk in my house you see what you see. That and in a weird way I liked that she kept stealing glances at my cock. It didn't turn me on really. I just liked that someone was interested. I'm sure not in what a grown woman is wanting. Just curiosity I guess.

“I do mostly.” I say and keep stirring the eggs. “I am making breakfast you want some?”
“Sure.” She says and sits down at the table.

I get out two more eggs and mix them in with mine. Add a bit more milk. I pour it in the pan and voila eggs. I put some bread into the toaster. I get out the butter and some jelly and sit it on the table. I grab us some cutlery and napkins and sit them on the table. I get two glasses out and pour some orange juice for us. I set that on the table and she instantly grabs the juice and takes a big swig. I grab the container and fill her back up. I stir the eggs and they are egging nicely. I watch them another moment and the toast pops up. I grab it and sit it on a plate for us and put it on the table. The eggs are done finally just a second before I starve to death. As I am putting them on the table about to sit down Kenny walks into the kitchen. He looks at me. I simply say.

“You hungry?”
“Mr Jones you ain't got no clothes on.”

“When you walk into my house without knocking you get what you get. So are you hungry?”
“Yeah.”
I turn around and gran another plate and hear.
“You got a nice ass white boy.”
“Thanks Dee. You want breakfast.”

“Sure.” She says and sits down.

“Mamma Mr Jones ain't got no clothes on.” Kenny says.

“Baby I see this and hes right. We just walk in and we gets what we gets. To be honest it ain't a bad thing. I don't think I'm ever knocking at Mr Jones house again.” Dee says giggling.

I turn around and she instantly glances at my man parts. I'm like fuck it. Look all you wish.
“Front ain't bad neither.” She says smiling.

I turn crimson from head to toe. I put what I have done on the table and start to makes some more. I am certain me being hospitable will be the death of me because I know I'm about to starve to death. I toss some more bread in the toaster and scramble up some more eggs. Both kids are eating my breakfast and Dee is waiting patiently for me to get it done.

“Mr Jones I got a favor to ask you.”
“Ask away doesn't mean I'll do it.” I say stirring the eggs.

“Well Mr Green is going to be at his aunties all day and the kids get off the bus and I don't want them to be home alone…..”
“Sure Dee I'll watch them. I kinda like em. Even if they don't ever knock.” I say turning around and playfully push Jenny's shoulder.

“You silly Mr Jones.” She says giggling.

The toast pops up for Dee and myself. I butter it and my mouth is watering. I'm feeling faint I'm sure of it. About to pass out from starvation I know it I just know it. I set a couple slices on a plate for Dee and a couple for me. I give the eggs a final stir and Dump the contents out onto the two plates. I grab some juice for Dee and some for me and Kenny as well. I grab a couple forks and finally sit down. I scoop my fork into the eggs and finally nourishment. Yay go food. Taste buds are not dancing. Something is wrong here. The hot sauce how silly of me to forget that. I get out the hot sauce and pour a bit on and now its yummy for my tummy. I have a bite of toast. I got seven grain bread and it is delightful.

“You cook good Mr Jones.” Kenny says.

“Yeah he do.” Jenny says.

So we finish our breakfast and I walk them to the door.

“Thanks for breakfast Mr Jones.” Jenny says and hugs me. I'm thinking Um hello naked man here. She hugs anyway.
“Yeah thanks Mr Jones.” Kenny says and hugs me too.

I see Dee looking at my parts. She smiles.

“What it ain't nothing great.”
"Nah I was just wondering if it would grow when the kids hug you. It didn't I know for sure they safe now.” She says. “And me too Mr Jones. Thanks for breakfast.” Then she hugs me. I'm thinking what the fuck. I mean its nice I mean really nice. I cant remember the last time I was hugged. I was kind of a hermit in New York. Its just so hard to make a friend then you have to be honest with them. Then they are like oh your a sick fuck I never want to talk to you again. Its sad so I just figure I wont have friends anymore. Not like I had tons before. I'm not antisocial. Its just I have been hurt so many times that I wont put myself on the line ever again. They head to their car and she kisses the kids and the go to the corner to wait for the bus and Dee heads off to work. I just think what a crazy place I moved to. Nice crazy though. I head upstairs and get dressed a pair of jeans a t shirt and a pair of Chuck Taylor's. I got several colors of them. I like them they are comfy and kind of cool. Not doing it to look cool. They aren't super expensive and comfy. So I wear them a lot. I grab my truck keys. My truck rings nice in my head. Head down and hop in the mammoth beast.

“Well, truck this is our first trip to Menards. Going to be interesting I'm sure.”
I cant believe the truck didn't answer me. How rude of it. I turn it over and the engine roars to life. I kind of like that sound of that Detroit power rumbling when I push the pedal. Roar it says and I smile. I google how to get to Menards and I head there I go in and start looking at cabinets. They have some unfinished ones for pretty cheap. I took measurements yesterday so I know what I need. Or can fit I guess would be better. I figure it in my head and it will leave about six inches at the end of the counter. I look a little more and find one that is perfect. If I put this piece with the others I will have about two feet. I figure to put the broom and trash can. Maybe build a shelf In the back part to put all my cleaning things. Maybe. Or just put them under the sink like nearly everyone. I go and get a guy to help me and he loads them on a big flat cart. He walks with me up front and I pay for them. He and I walk out to the truck and he helps me load them in the truck. As he starts to walk away I say to him.

“Where you going?”
“Back in the store did you need something else?”
“No.” I say handing him a five.
“Whats that for?”
“For helping me. I appreciate it.”
“We cant accept tips.”

“Well, what if I bought you lunch would that be OK?”
“Sure I guess.”
I put the five back in my money clip and take out a ten and hand it to him.

“I got things to do today. I'm buying your lunch. Wish I could join you though.”
He smiles.

“Kinda sneaky but I like it.” He says smiling and taking the ten.

“Well its not a tip. Just a thank you lunch.”
“He smile at me again.

“Have a good day sir.”

“You too buddy.”
I get back in the truck.

“Well baby lets get home.” I say and reverse my google map. Once I get home I back the truck up to the front porch. I unload the cabinets and carry them into the dining room. I put the truck back in the drive where it belongs and head into the house. I get one cabinet and carry it out on the porch. Since its unfinished I'm going to have to finish it. I've done it before. It was at camp once in the Adirondacks. I liked it had a blast. I just put a clear coat over the oak. It looks really pretty. I finish the first and go get a second. After the second the first is dry enough to move back into the house. I see a car drive by. Bumping the entire way down the block. Some gang members eyeing me as they drive by slow. Probably thinking I'm working on it to rent it or sell it. Not that I live here. Or maybe the website already has me posted and they are checking out the new molester. Who knows. I don't give a shit. I continue working. Once I get done with the last one I decide I need a break. I'm starving again. Well it is one o'clock. I go make myself a sandwich and sit on the porch. I open the Coke I brought with me and sit down and eat my lunch. Should have gotten some chips I think as I start eating the bologna sandwich. I want them but, it doesn't seem worth the effort to go get them. Id rather sit on my ass. Once I finish my sandwich I sit and watch the few cars go by. I finish my Coke and head back into the house. I start installing my cabinets. Its pretty easy when theres nothing in the way. The only piece I had to remove is under the sink. I am working my butt off and I have one piece left and I hear behind me.

“Hey Mr Jones.”
“Good afternoon Jenny.” I say without turning around.

“You got clothes on Mr Jones.” Kenny says.

“I'm not always naked. Cant go to the store that way can you?”
“No silly.” Kenny says giggling.

I see them moving over and watch me work to level the cabinet. Once its leveled I screw it into place. Once I'm done I step back and look at my job.

“Looks good.” I say.

“Wheres the top?” Kenny asks.

“At the store. I didn't get it yet because I wouldn't have had room in the truck for both. So I will go and get it tomorrow.”
“It do look good.” Jenny says.

“Yepper. I'm going to make this house beautiful.”
“Need to paint it.”
“I will get to it. Its not the first thing on my list. You guys hungry?”

“I'm starving.” Kenny says.

‘Me too.”
“How about a bologna sandwich and some chips?”
They both nod that's a fine idea. I make them a sandwich each and put some chips on a plate for them. I added a little lettuce and tomato for the kids. I figure they need veggies too. I put them at the table and make myself another sandwich as ive worked up a hell of a hunger. So I sit down and decide it is definitely better with chips. I get them out some lemon lime soda I got at Walmart.

“You make a good sandwich Mr Jones.” Kenny says.

“Thanks buddy.” I say.

“Most people just put bologna and bread and like mayonnaise. I like it with other stuff on it.”
“Glad you like it Kenny.”
“Mr Jones. What we gone do today? Can we watch a movie on your big ol TV?”
“Actually I thought about that. I got some ideas. But, first dont we need to get your homework out of the way?”
“Aw man you just like Mr Green.” Kenny says.

“School is important. It gives you good information for later in life. Like today. I needed to know how to measure so I got the right amount of cabinets.”
“I suppose." Kenny says eating his last chip. I don't think he is buying my line. Even if it is true. Jenny is a bit slower at eating then us guys. As we are done and waiting for her. Once she is done I gather the plates and they gather their homework. It only takes about 20 minutes and they are done. So once they are done I go and get three decks of cards. I figure theyre going to be here a while. I want then to play some not just sit in front of my “big ol TV” and rot away.

“You two ever play war?” I ask as I walk back into the kitchen.

“Nope.” Kenny says.

“Me neither.”
“Alright then. We used to play this all the time when I was a kid. Me and my sister. We had fun playing all kinds of games.” I tell them.

“Well c’mon a good game of war has to be played laying on the floor.”
So we go into the living room and all lay on our tummy's on the floor. I hand then each a deck of cards I shuffle before I do.

“Now what you do is lay out the top card. If your card is bigger you take all the cards. If you match you have a war and the winner takes all the cards. Whoever gets all the cards wins. Understand?”
“Yep.” They say. We start off and the kids are laughing and having fun. Which was my goal. After we play for about an hour and a half and Kenny wins his second game I say to them.

“I got to get dinner started.”
“We can help.” They both say.

“Sure if you want to. I figured you would have a game with each other.”
“Nah we likes being with you Mr Jones.” Kenny says.

“Well, I like being with you too.” I say rubbing the top of his head. His mom apparently cut his hair last night because its really short now. It feels nice.

So I go out to the kitchen and I really hadn't thought about what to make. I look at the groceries I got and decide a meatloaf is in order. I pull out the hamburger and some ketchup, mustard. You know meatloaf fixings. I use smashed crackers in mine. I know some people use oats. I prefer crackers. I thought one time about using Cheez its. Never have yet. Maybe one day I will be bold and try that. May be great. May be horrible. Never know until you try it I guess. I cut up some onion and some green bell pepper. Once I complete that. The kids watching every move I make. I pull out a big bowl and start tossing all the ingredients in. I start to mix it up with my hands.

“I bet thats squishy feeling.” Kenny says.

“It is. Come here you mix it up.” I say to him.

I have him wash his hands first then he plunges his hands into the mixture.

“Its kinda cold. But, mushy feeling.” He says as he squeezes it between his fingers. Then he starts mixing it.

“What can I do Mr Jones?” Jenny asks.

“I am so glad you asked.” I say as I turn on the oven and preset the temperature. I then grab a package of brownie mix and she sees it and smiles.

“I like brownies.”
“I imagine most people do. But there are some people I imagine that don't care for them. Like I don't like bacon.”
“You crazy you don't like bacon.” Kenny says.

“Bacon is gooood.” Jenny says.

“See we all have different tastes. Some people love broccoli others cant stand it. We are all different yet we are all still the same.”
“What you mean?” Kenny says.

“I’ll show you.” I scoot a chair over to the sink. I have him stand on the chair. Seeing a how we both need to wash our hands seems a simple way to show him. I turn on the water and I pour dish soap into his hands and I squeeze some on mine. I start washing his hands. “Now look at out fingers. How are they different?”
He is looking at them.

“Mines a different color.”
“Yes and what else?”
“Mines smaller.”
“Yes. But, they are all fingers.”
“So see like everyone we are different. But, the same.”

“We have different things we like to eat. You like bacon I think its gross. So we are the same but, we have very small differences that make us unique. That's what we should love about other people is their differences. Like an artist. They are different then me. But, their talent sets them apart. But, we all have a gift to share. To make the world a better place.”
“Whats your gift Mr Jones?”
“I don't know yet. I keep looking but, I ain't never found it yet. Maybe one day I will.”

“Whatchoo think my gift is Mr Jones?” Kenny asks.

“I don't know buddy. I guess we will have to work on that and try some different stuff. Do you like drawing?”
“No but, Jenny is real good at drawing.
I turn to her.

“Are you?”

“Nah I'm just OK.”
“You got anything drawn up I can see?”
“I got some stuff in my backpack if you really want to see it.” She says kind of like she doesn't want me to see it. I lift Kenny off the chair and set him on the floor. Hand him some paper towels to dry off his hands and turn off the water and grab some for me.

“I really want to see it I'm interested to see what my new little friend does.”
She looks at me kind of funny.

“You think we friends?”
“Sure what else would we be?”
“Well you'se the babysitter?”

"True but, I think of us as friends that are hanging out. I don't think I'm the babysitter.”
“I guess.” She says.

“OK What is Mr Green is he a friend or a babysitter?”
“He is kinda both.”
“So see I am kind of both too.”
“I see what you saying.” She says.

“Now come on as your friend I want to see your art work.”
She smiles and says, “OK.”
She gets her back pack and pulls out a red folder. She opens it up and inside are about twenty or so pieces of paper. She pulls them out and I sit down at the table to inspect them. I look at the first one and I look a good minute. Then I move to the next one. I do this through all twenty or so drawings. When I am done I set the last one down and look at her and think exactly how I want to say what I want to say.

“Jenny. I think that for your age these are truly fantastic. I think that if you keep drawing that in the future you could have a career in art. I think that your probably way ahead of all the other kids in your age group because you are using shading to make your drawings better. If I didn't know you made these I would have guessed them to be the drawings of a person in high school that has been in art classes all these years. Like this one here.” I say pulling out one of Mr Green. “Now me looking at this I know for certain this is Mr Green. I like the way you made his wrinkles and shaded them so they really show exactly how he looks. Now this one here of Kenny you drew is also really good. I like the way you shadowed here and here to highlight the fact that Kenny's cheeks are shiny. I think that you have a very good future in art. If that's what you want to do.”
She looks at me like I'm crazy.

“Everybody is always telling me its a waste of time to draw. But, I like it. It makes me happy when I get done and its what I want it to look like.”
“Jenny. Nothing we enjoy is a waste of time. Youre really, REALLY good. I want you to draw a picture of my house for me. I want you to draw it as it is now and then how you think it should look. I will pay you five dollars for each picture.”
“I cant be charging you for it.”
“Why not? When you are rich and famous imagine how much my drawings from you as a little girl will be worth. I'll be a brazillionaire.”
She giggles at this.

“You silly Mr Jones.”
“I may be but I know I'm right that you are very talented. Now get to work on my drawings. Kenny and I will go sit on the porch for a while and let the meat loaf cook."

After I put it in of course. I put it in a bread pan. I grab four potatoes and wrap them in foil and put them in the oven to bake as well. Jenny starts drawing away at the table. I grab her a soda and sit it in front of her. She takes a sip and goes back to drawing. I grab Kenny and me a drink and we head to the porch so she can draw. Once we get out there I sit down and Kenny is on my lap.

“You really think she good Mr Jones?”
“Yes I do. I think she has a lot of talent.”
“I wish I had something I was good at like her.” He says kind of sad.

“You are still young yet. There is still time to find it. There was this old lady. Named Grandma Moses. She started her art career at 78 years old. So I guess you never really know when your life gift will pop up. Granted she had been painting off and on over the years. But because of her life she didn't really have time to pursue it. One of her paintings about 15 years ago sold for over a million dollars. So I guess we cant put an age on when we find our gift. We just have to keep looking,”

“I hope I find mine before I'm old like that.”
“Me too.”
We sit and chat about things that are interesting to us. He tells me about his matchbox car collection. I listen and I can tell he is very passionate about it. He has several cars apparently. It sounds like he has hundreds. He very well may have. Its a good hobby for a young boy I think. Seeing as how you can pick them up for less then $2 each. We sit and talk nearly hour when Jenny pops out the door holding two pieces of paper. I have Kenny hop down so she can hop up and show me her drawings. I look at the first one. Yep its how it looks now. Gutter hanging, shutters missing. It looks a mess. Well just like the house is now. Then I look at the second one. Oh it looks nice. Really nice. All the shutters are in place. The porch is bigger and screened in with a door on it. I see me in the front yard raking the grass. There are flowers around the trees and in front of the house. The bushes are all gone and replaced with flowers. She even took the time to color them. The house is a soft yellow and the trim is brown. It looks pretty good actually.

“These are fantastic.” I say to her. I slip her off of my lap and head to the kitchen both kids following. I put them under a magnet on the fridge. I look at the one of the completed house and I look at her then back at it.

“You know I like your drawing so much. I think that's how I want my house to look when I'm done.”
“Really?”
“Yeah really. What do you think Kenny?”
“It sure is pretty that way with all the flowers and stuff.”

“I think so too.” I say looking at it another minute or so. I reach in my pocket and hand her two five dollar bills. She looks at me and smiles and stuffs the money in her pocket.

“Thanks Mr Jones.” She says smiling still.

“You are very welcomed.” As I say this the timer starts its beeping letting me know the meatloaf is done. I pull it out and let it sit and cool a few minutes. As I do I pull out a mixing bowl and have Jenny stand on a chair and I pour the brownie mix in and add the egg and oil. She mixes it together and while she does I grease up a pan. She has it mixed really well Kenny watching and licking his lips. I pour the mixture into the pan and pop it in the oven. I make us three plates and a fourth for Dee I put in the fridge after I wrap it in foil.

We sit down and I open their potatoes for them and put in a generous amount of butter on theirs and mine as well. I sit the plates on the table grab the cutlery and some paper towels for our messy mouths. The kids dig in.

“Dog gone Mr Jones you cook good.” Kenny says.

“Better then mamma.” Jenny says.

“Jenny everybody cooks better then mamma.”
“Not ever body.”
“I am guessing your mom isn't a great cook.”
“No she bad. She cant make nothing good. We eats a lot of frozen dinners and sometimes she burns them up.”
“How do you do that you put them in the microwave.”
“We ain't got no microwave.” Kenny says.

“Oh well then.” I says and take a bite thinking how do you screw up TV dinners. Hell they suck to start with then messing them up blech.

We eat our dinner and as we finish the brownie timer goes off. I pull out the brownies and I hear.

“When can we eat them?” From Jenny.

“When they get cool. Probably a good hour.”
“Think we can watch a movie now?” Jenny asks.

“I suppose since its going to be dark in a while we may as well.” I say to her. We go out and I turn on the TV and look through kids movies. I sit on the couch and both kids are on my lap. One on one side the other on the other side. Its a little crowded. But, that's OK.

“Oh my goodness. I used to watch this when I was your guys age.” I say. “Have you seen the Little Mermaid?”
“Nope.” They say.

“I think you will like it.”

I say and start he movie. After a while Kenny slides off my lap and lays on the couch putting his head on my leg. I gently rub his head and face. He is smooth and feels nice. Jenny sees this and decides after a few times of looking that this seems like an ideal choice so she too lays out on the couch laying her head on my other leg. So I take the hint and start gently rubbing her head and face.

"Mr Jones that feels nice.” Jenny says.

“Yeah it do.” Kenny says agreeing.

“I just smile at their faces looking at me. We watch the movie and the kids really seem to enjoy it. Once its over the talk about what parts they really liked the most. They both loved Sebastion and his singing. Of course Jenny loves Princess Ariel. They are both singing the song Under the Sea when Dee walks in the front door smiling at her kids dancing and singing for me.

“Sounds like Mr Jones showed you the Little Mermaid huh?”
“Yeah it was fun to watch.” Kenny says and then starts to tell her all about it.

“Baby I seen it you ain't got to tell me the whole movie. But I am glad you liked it.”
I get up and go put her dinner in the microwave of course taking off the foil first. Don't want to burn down my new house. Well not yet anyway. I heat it up and I hear the kids telling them about their day with me. I hear Kenny bragging he won war more then anyone. I hear Jenny telling her mom I paid her to draw pictures. Once the microwave goes off I put the food on a TV tray and grab a soda and carry it out to Dee.

“Here you go I figured you would be starved. Kenny helped me make the meat loaf.”
She takes a bite.

“Damn Mr Jones you can cook good.” She says smiling. I put the butter and sour cream on her tray so she could add how much she wants. Or if she wants it at all. I see she adds a bit of both and takes a bite.

“Mr Jones you should open a restaurant if you cook everything as good as this.” She says taking another bite.

“Your crazy I ain't no good at cooking.”
“Better then me.”
“Mamma every body is better then you. You burned Ramen noddles.”
“I did not.” She says looking funny at them.

“Yeah but you could.”
With that she start laughing.

“Yeah I prolly could.” She says.

“Mr Jones I was looking today on my phone at lunch. I was looking at Sinclair and I would be able to get financial aid for sure to go to school like you said. I was looking and what I really want to do is be a social worker to help kids you know. But, it takes a long time to do that. I looked and it takes like four years or six depending if I want to get my MSW. Which I think I do. But, I was thinking I don't want to be all broke and having to work a bullshit job while I go to school forever. So I was looking and they got a short course only takes two semesters to get a degree in phlebotomy. I was looking and one in Ohio makes like $15.50 an hour. So I could do that during the day or at night and go to school the rest of the time. That way me and my kids ain't starving and being poor while I goes to school.”
“You know I never thought about that. But, thats a good idea. You are definitely a smart lady.” I say.

“Damn straight I am.” She says laughing. “And when I gets rich I'm going to make you start a restaurant for sure.” She says finishing her meal. I grab the TV tray and carry it out to the kitchen. I slice the brownies and put them on plates for us. I get out four glasses for some milk. Milk just goes great with brownies. That's for sure. I walk back out and hear her explaining to the kids that a phlebotomist is the person that takes blood out of people. They don't sound impressed.

I walk back in and set the tray down and put brownies on the coffee table with milk for the kids and myself. The kids sit on the floor and I sit on the couch. I sit the TV tray in front of Dee.

“You spoiling me Mr Jones.”
“Seems like someone should. You work so hard to provide for you and the kids.”
“Yeah well soon all them hours will be better for me going to school and working good job. I gots to work one job at least so we can pay the bills. But, I saw I can get grants and stuff to help too. So I applied online for financial assistance and its should go through from what they say. I took a test at one job today on the phone so I been accepted already. I'm kinda excited to be honest. If it all works out I will start in two weeks.”
Wow that fast huh?”
“Yeah looks like we talked about it just at the right time.”
“I tell you what Dee I am so happy you are doing this. I'm excited for you.”
“Why don't you go back to school Mr Jones?”
“For what. No one will hire me as a Sex offender. I am thinking I will try to do some free lance computer work to get by here. I wont need to make lots of money seeing as how my house is paid for. Maybe a few hundred a month for bills.”
“That be cool. But no they got all kinds of classes. Like for cooking and stuff. Just stuff so you can learn more.”
“Mamma you should take the cooking class.” Kenny says mouth full of brownie.

“Hush up you.” She says playing with him.

“These brownies are good Mr Jones.” Dee says.

“Jenny made them.”
“Really? They are really good.”
“Yeah mamma it wasn't hard or nothing. Mr Jones showed me what to do and it was easy.” She say smiling at the praise shes getting from her mom.

Dee and I talk a little while before she says she has to get the kids home and in the bath and to bed for school tomorrow.

“Dee you get any days off?”

I get Sunday off so me and the kids can go to church.”
“Oh thats nice.”
“You can come with us if you want.” She says to me.

“No I don't think so. Me and religion dont mix real well.”

“Its OK but, if you want to you can feel free to join us anytime. No pressure from me.”
“I appreciate that.”

I walk them to the door and Jenny hugs me round my waist. The Kenny does when shes done. Hugs feel nice. When Kenny is done Dee hugs me.

“Mr Jones I wish I could pay you for watching the kids. But we both know I cant afford it. But I will get you some groceries with my food stamps.”
“No you don't need to do that. They barely give you enough for your family I'm sure.”
“But I gots to do something for you.”

“Whys that? Why cant a neighbor just do a favor for a neighbor and not expect anything for it. I had fun today with the kids. I think they had fun with me too. So its not like it was a hassle or anything. Besides if they wouldn't have been here I probably would have been over talking to Mr Green and they still would have been around. So it ain't no thing.”
“Well I wash Mr Greens laundry for him for him watching my babies. How bout I do the same for you.”
“Well since I don't have a washer and dryer yet I guess that would be OK and pretty helpful too.”
“Deal then.” She says and hugs me.

“Thank you Dee.”
“No Mr Jones thank you. Cuz of you our lives is gonna change for the better. I never would have thought of going back to school I figured I ain't got no time for that. But, its gonna work out good.” She says smiling. She kisses my cheek as she pulls away. It makes me blush.

“That's cute you getting embarrassed me kissing your cheek.”
“I don't member the last time anyone ever did that.”
“Maybe you needs spoiled too Mr Jones.”
“You know I wish you and the kids would call me Gary. I feel like I'm a school teacher or something.”
“I will call you Gary. The kids will still call you Mr Jones. They need to respect their elders.”
“That's fair.” I say.

She walks out the door with the kids in tow and I watch them walk a crossed the street. I can hear the kids chattering until they walk into their front door. All in all I think. Today was a very productive and fun day. I got the cabinets finished and put in. Tomorrow more work on the house. I guess I should probably start looking for work. My savings is dwindling pretty quickly with the major purchase of the truck. The cabinets were about half of what I was expecting but, they weren't free either. So I best get a job somewhere. Granted if I don't do anything to the house I can probably live a year without working. But, I also want to get the house done too. So its my home instead of just where I live.

I go into the kitchen to turn out the lights and before I do I look at the drawing Jenny did of my house the way she thinks it should be. I decide I really do like it a lot. I knew I did before but, I think I will make the trim a different color then brown.. I think I will go with gray or white. Probably white. I think it will look nice that way. I turn out the lights and head up to bed. I strip down and think about putting on sleeping pants. I decide I don't want to I kind of enjoyed sleeping naked last night. I felt so free. I don't have to worry about fires and all the apartment neighbors seeing me naked. But, I do put a pair next to the bed just in case. I was never a boy scout but, its still important to be prepared. I climb into bed and I have a nice wank thinking about some of the pretty boys I saw at the Walmart yesterday. There were some cute ones between about 10 and 13 I saw I liked. Once I finish and clean up I roll over and sleep comes fast and easy. Its so peaceful here I cant believe there is almost no noise. After living in the city for years and years with all the noise its certainly a nice break.

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I went through and corrected some issues and put it in html format. Its just easier to read. I wish you

Peace Love and Good Happiness

Eric

ericmurphey1971@gmail.com