#scarsdale

There are glances.... some sharp, some pointed, some pleading, some with the weight of years behind them.... between the others as they sip.

"Zara." Aaron says, non-threatening and firm. "We can meet again another time. Think. Sleep. Eat, please, eat.... "

"I want her to know. I just.... I understand, it might be better if she doesn't, even if... if... it's hard for me, okay?"

Another round of looks, nods and understandings. "Ok." Hannah says, sipping what must be stone-cold tea. "I'm happy to hear that. So. Hirim and Rachamin will .... do... whatever. And then, if they can, will bring you."

"Zara...." Hirim ".... until we can... you mustn't. Verschtay? I understand with the questions and the curious but...."

"I've been good, haven't I?"

"I've tried to do everything right..."

"Yes, Zara, yes....." Hannah again, reassuring. "You have been good, and you did mitzvah, and you ARE a blessing. Nu?"

She ducks her head, biting back the urge to contradict. "I won't tell her."

"But I won't... won't lie, either."

"So." Ratchet says. "All I ask is you ... give us time with her. Let us figure out where she is, who she is, when she is.... and then... we'll talk again, ok?"

"We'll let you know, hm?" Hirim coughs. "When we can. How she is."

"And.. if I watch, where she doesn't see?"

"Zara...." A warning sound from Hirim.....

"I know my nature. And better, perhaps, to not pretend otherwise."

*and DRAMATIC pause.....*

((DRAMATIC MUSIC. Next time, on As Scarsdale Turns...))