68
Toronto 1961
I rang Helen’s bell. I’d dressed properly for the occasion; dry-cleaned suit, fresh tie, brushed hat. Miryam answered the door. Her eyes widened when she saw me.
“Mo? What a nice surprise.”
“Can I come in?”
“Sure.”
I noticed several suitcases piled in the hallway.
“Going somewhere?”
She bowed her head awkwardly.
“To New York. I have a cousin who lives in Brooklyn. I’m going to stay with her awhile, until I figure things out.”
“I see.”
“Please, come into the parlour and sit down.”
“What about Gittel?”
“She’s going to stay with Helen for now and once I know what I’m doing, I’ll come for her.”
We sat opposite each other. “Can I get you something?” she asked.
I shook my head. “I’m not staying long.”
“Oh. All right.”
I held up the paper sack. “This is for you. C
