The building that I refer to is real. In the 90s, you could buy a place there for fifty thousand dollars for the lower floors, and maximum one hundred and twenty thousand for the upper floors. As of 2017, a million dollars won't get you very far.


On a perfect cloudless morning, Lila went into the kitchen and looked hungrily at the assortment of pastries on the polished marble counter top. To her surprise, Grace was sitting there at the small table, stirring milk into her tea. She had come down from her bedroom, a bit later than usual, expecting that her mother would have already gone to her store in Los Angeles. Lila hadn't spoken to her mother in over a week. Grace looked exhausted, with dark circles under her eyes. Lila grimaced as her mother sent a pleading look in her direction.

Good morning Lila, Grace said, a hopeful look in her grey eyes. Lila glanced at her, ready to continue the cold war that had been brewing ever since she found out about her true paternity. She had spoken to Roger a couple of times, and he had tried to sway her into meeting her mother half way. After their conversations, she was realizing that Roger really was someone she could form a connection with, someone she could confide in, to really talk to. That is, when she wasn't trying to seduce him.

Lila almost giggled in remembrance. She and Roger were in the Patman's pool house, hiding away from his Aunt Marie, when she decided to put the moves on him. It was fun, watching him try to resist her. He had become a challenge, there was nothing Lila liked better than a man who was falling at her feet.

But Roger wasn't there, not yet anyway. He was quick to deny that he still liked her, but it was too obvious that she had an effect on him. His busty blonde girlfriend had gone back to Rumford in New Jersey, and Lila was more than happy to take advantage of her absence.

Lila grabbed a pastry, ready to turn around and walk out of the room. But the pitiful look on her mother's face softened her heart, and she returned her mother's greeting.

Would you like to sit down? I know you're still angry… An encouraging hint of a smile appeared on her mother's drawn face.

Fine, Lila replied, pouring a cup of coffee. She sat down at the breakfast table across from Grace, and took a bite of a jam filled danish. Grace looked at her, her eyes hesitant.

Look Lila, we're going to have to talk about this eventually….. I want to explain, to tell you everything.

What's there to say? Lila remarked glumly. My father is a vagrant. I'm a low class nobody, the daughter of a bum.

Graced sighed heavily. I wish you wouldn't say that. George is your father in every way that counts, but…..

Grace bit her lip, as if she was afraid to move on.

You know I was very young when I had you, she continued. George married me when I was already pregnant. You already know that though. I was only eighteen when I got pregnant, and nineteen when you were born. I wasn't ready to be a mother.

Lila flipped her hair and focused on her mother. So you initially passed me off to Daddy as his own? When did you tell him I wasn't his?

He knew soon after you turned three, after I had already moved away, but he was still willing to raise you. George had sent me some pictures, and the resemblance to Gerald was all too obvious to deny. By then, Gerald had taken off.

Gerald? That's his name?

Yes, Gerald Baker.

Lila scoffed. Baker? Great. So my ancestors worked sweating over ovens?

I had no way to contact him, Grace continued, ignoring Lila's remark. And George… your father was stable, mature, and I knew he'd be a better parent for you. George and I….we did love each other….at first.

I already told you about how much we were fighting around that time. We weren't getting along and we ended it. Your father was almost ten years older than me. I was practically still a child, too young for the life I was suddenly living in.

And then, Grace added, George took me to court and had me declared unfit. I knew I could either tell him you might not be his, or have to take you away myself, with no money, to look for your real father. I wasn't one hundred percent sure until you grew a little and I saw who you really looked like.

Before I moved away to France, I went back to live with my parents, taking you with me, but by then, my family had lost most of their money, and I could no longer fight, Grace added.

Grace looked at Lila, her eyes pleading for understanding.

How long Mom,? Lila demanded. How long has he been in town? This man has been stalking me for almost a year now, and you didn't think to tell me who he was? I was at my wits end, thinking he was some kind of sicko. So why have you been meeting him?

I've been giving him money.

He's been blackmailing you?

No, it's not like that. I mean, I always meant to tell you. He's been wanting to meet you, but I've been putting it off.

He can't find work and I've been helping him with his bills.

Does Dad know?

George does know. I told him everything, the day… the day you caught us at the Valley Inn. I didn't want to stir up trouble. But your father, he understands. He's sensed that I haven't been myself, that I've been under a lot of pressure recently.

Look Lila, George does love you. I know you feel like he's been absent your whole life, but he does care for you. I know he's not the most obvious person when showing his affection, but you had the best upbringing that I could have given you at the time. I was a kid, I had a lot of growing up to do, and I couldn't have handled you by myself. My parents were no help, they didn't think much of George anyway, and it would have been even worse if I suggested that your father was a mechanic who I…, Grace turned her reddened face, who I only had been with once.

So how did he find out about me,? Lila asked, her face tense.

Well, he read the paper, and he saw our picture, after we gave that donation to the middle school playground a year ago. He noted how much you look like his daughter and….

Wait, he has a daughter,? Lila gasped. I have a sister?

Yes, Grace affirmed. she's a teenager. And she does have similar features to yours.

I've seen her, Lila said suddenly, remembering the young girl going into the blue van. Does she have long, brown hair like mine?

She does, Grace nodded. She's actually in Nevada now, with her family as far as I know.

So that's how he figured it out, that I'm his daughter,? Lila asked.

Yes, as I was saying, Grace said, he saw you and he read about our family, and saw that I was your mother. She took a sip of her tea. He found me and confronted me, and I couldn't deny it. Gerald told me he'd leave town, and he did, but he came back. And then he got arrested last year.

Yes, Lila confirmed. I remember, it was right outside the bar.

He told me you saw when the police took him away, her mother continued. It was for unpaid traffic tickets. But, well….he does have a record.

So he's been in prison? Lila put her hands in her head. For what?

Armed robbery, Grace whispered. It was a long time ago though. He's kind of a drifter, one of those people who's always down on his luck.

This day is just getting better and better. Lila remarked. So how did you get involved with him in the first place? I mean, I obviously exist, and I can clearly see I look a lot like him. I can't understand, for the life of me, how you could have gotten involved with someone like that!

A horrible thought entered Lila's mind and she looked in terror at her mother.

He didn't force you did he? I mean, he didn't rape you?

No! Grace corrected her immediately. It wasn't like that. I was a bit rebellious when I was younger. He used to work at a garage, fixing cars. I dented my car a couple of times, and I didn't want my parents to know.

So I went over to the garage, and we started talking. He fixed it for free, both times. I grew up wealthy, and very sheltered, and he represented something that I could use to make my parents mad, to rise up against them, their strict rules, and their old money ways. We didn't even have a real relationship.

But didn't you say the same about Dad? About his working class background? You told me he was a butcher's son.

He was. George didn't grow up with money either. He made his own fortune.

So you had a roll in the hay with this Gerald person? Or was it in the back seat of his car?

Grace frowned, shaking her head. I have no excuse except the fact that I was young and foolish and I made a mistake.

Lila folded her arms. So I'm a mistake now?

No Lila, I didn't mean it like that. I don't regret having you. I love you, and your brother very much.

At that moment the phone rang, and Eva, one of the Fowler's maids, walked in and handed Grace the receiver.

Telephone Mrs Fowler, Eva said politely, interrupting the conversation.

Hello? Grace said. Oh hi. No I'll be in today. I'm just running a little late. I am busy though, I'm not sure when.

Don't worry Grace, Lila whispered to her mother. We'll talk more later.

Grace put her hand over the mouthpiece.

You're sure?

Lila nodded. Later….

She moved into the west wing of Fowler Crest and into her elegant bedroom. She lay back on her bed, thinking about the new revelations. For much of her life, she was coddled and pampered from a distance. She had always wondered if this was the true reason why. Because she wasn't George's biological child. The sense of pride she had always worn from having his last name always had a nagging accomplice of insecurity, that she wasn't his true daughter, and that someday he might marry and have a real baby of his own.

It was the reason why she was often hostile to the women he dated, did everything in her power to sabotage his numerous relationships, shunned his girlfriends and always found a way to send them packing. She didn't want to compete with anyone for George's affection, which was often detached when he doled it out. And now, Lila thought, now the other woman in his life….. the one that had given him a child, was her own mother!…..


Two days later, Elizabeth made her way to JFK airport to meet her father. She missed Nicholas. He was gone now for a week and she longed to see him, she missed his voice whispering in her ear, the smell of his cologne, the feeling of his hands on her body. They spoke over the phone every morning, and it was always at the tip of her tongue to tell him about her pregnancy. But she couldn't bring herself to do it. This was something she wanted to tell him in person, to gauge his reaction, to see how he would take the news.

She went to terminal three and into the arrivals lounge. After twenty minutes, she caught a glimpse of a tall dark haired man, with a bit of greying hair at his temples, but who was every bit as fit as he was twenty years ago. She waved and hurried up to him.

Hi Daddy, she embraced him warmly. They pulled apart as he examined her. He dropped a kiss on her forehead.

Let me look at you, Ned Wakefield smiled, looking over his daughter. Are you all right,? he said, as they walked arm in arm out the sliding doors and onto the taxi stand.

Of course I am Dad, she smiled happily at him.

We watch the news Liz. There's always something horrible going on it this city. Gunshots, stabbings, drugs!

Dad! It's not that terrible. New York has a bad rep. But it's pretty safe for a big city.

Ned shook his dark head. Your mother and I worry though.

Dad! You're here to help me, not tell me about the crime rate.

Now how was your flight,? Elizabeth asked, kissing her father's cheek.

It was great. No turbulence. I slept through the whole thing. Well, until they woke us up for breakfast, he laughed. They got into a taxi and gave the driver the address.

And how is Nicholas?

He's great Dad, Elizabeth smiled. He's actually in London on business.

That's too bad, Ned said. I wanted to have a chance to talk to him, man to man.

Elizabeth almost cringed at her father's words. She bit her lip.

You'll probably be talking to him very soon, she said inwardly, after you find out I'm pregnant!

She looked at her father at the corner of her eye. There's just no way I can tell him, not yet anyway. I'll tell Mom first and then we'll tell him together.

Coward,! she said to herself. Stop acting like a child. You're no longer a teenager. You had sex, so what? Dad won't think less of you if he knows!

The car traveled over the expressway heading towards Manhattan.

There it is, Ned said excitedly. That's the New York everyone hears about, he stated, as the skyline got closer and closer. They moved through the traffic in Queens and headed for the midtown tunnel.

You see that building right there? Elizabeth pointed to the lone building standing prominently in the distance. That's the one where I want to buy into.

Ned looked at the direction where she was motioning. It's pretty tall.

Well it's taller than everything around it.

There are plans to build a lot more in the area, Elizabeth added.

We'll see. I really want to check this place out before you make a decision, Ned said, putting his hand on Elizabeth's. They entered the tunnel and were soon on their way towards forty fifth street in front of the Marriott. The cab driver pulled up in front of the hotel as Elizabeth pulled out her wallet to pay him.

Look at my grown up daughter, paying for the taxi, Ned remarked grinning. You sure you have enough?

Sure Dad, it's OK, Elizabeth laughed as she stepped out of the car. The driver opened the trunk and Ned pulled out his small carry on bag from the back. They made their way into the lobby where she watched as her father checked into his room. They walked over to the elevator. It was still early in the morning, before official check in time, so Ned ended up paying an early arrival fee.

I don't mind it, he remarked. I slept on the plane, but I'm still pretty tired. They moved up to the fortieth floor and into a double room that faced seventh avenue. Wow, Ned said, as he admired the hustle and bustle from his window. You were right Liz, I don't know how I'll ever sleep. This is too much fun! Look at all the lights! And all the people!

Elizabeth giggled. Dad, you sound like one of the tourists.

I am one of the tourists, Ned said.

Elizabeth smiled and looked at her watch. I have to go to work now, but I'll be back later to take you out somewhere. When do we meet with your lawyer friend?

Ned pulled out his small appointment book. Tonight actually, he said he'd meet us for dinner, Maybe around seven? I have his number right here.

What are you going to do now? Elizabeth queried.

I think I'll take a nap. Or maybe I'll be adventurous and go exploring.

How about I meet you here, around six? Elizabeth suggested. Just don't get lost if you go out, she warned.

I won't Liz, her father said, giving her a quick hug. I'll call your Mom, tell her I arrived.

Alright then, Elizabeth said, returning the embrace. I have to go now.

How are you getting there,? Ned wanted to know. Do you need money for a taxi?

No, Daddy. I can take the bus, or I can walk.

Walk? How far is it?

It's on fourteenth street, about thirty streets away. It's not a big deal, Elizabeth said, as she picked up on her father's disapproval. I can manage. I like the exercise.

Are the streets safe?

It's very safe Dad. Much safer than my own neighborhood. Now stop worrying. She kissed Ned on the cheek as they opened the door. Here's my number at work, in case you need it. Bye Daddy, she smiled and waved as she walked towards the elevator…..

Elizabeth arrived back at the Marriott at five thirty to meet her father going over some travel brochures that were laid out on the bed.

I'm looking at all the great places I can take your mother to, Ned laughed, as he gave Elizabeth another hug. I called Miles this morning and he said he'd meet us at six. How far away do we have to go?

It's just a few streets north of here, Elizabeth answered. It won't take us five minutes to get there. She watched as her father grabbed his wallet, and put on his light tailored jacket. The two of them went to the elevator and were soon out in the busy street.

Wow, this place is great, Ned said as they walked out of the building. It's even better when it's getting darker than in the daytime, he declared excitedly. I wish your mother was here. I promised her I'd go to Junior's and buy her some cheesecake. I don't know what or where Junior's is, so you'll have to show me.

I know where it is, Elizabeth told him. It's in Brooklyn.

I love this, Ned said, looking at the bright lights as they moved slowly down the pavement. No wonder you like New York so much.

The place was packed with visitors, all of them oohing and aahing at the sites. Elizabeth walked ahead and past them, trying to get to the bistro where they'd be meeting her father's colleague. She turned around, expecting to see Ned right behind her. She spotted him standing among the crowd, his camera in hand, snapping away.

Dad! Elizabeth said in exasperation. It's just Times Square, it's no big deal. There are lots of prettier places in the city to see. Which I will take you to if we have time. And Junior's too since Mom insists….

They moved upwards for a few more minutes and reached the restaurant, where Miles Jackson, a greyish blonde man, around her father's age, greeted them warmly. A half hour later, they were seated at a table, catching up on old times with lively conversation and several anecdotes from their past. The trio ordered their meals and were just enjoying an appetizer when Miles examined Elizabeth.

I can't believe how much you look like Alice, Miles remarked to her. Good thing you take after your Mom, he smirked at his dinner companions.

You know I take offense to that, Ned said in mock anger.

You know my mother? Elizabeth asked.

Yes, I do. I had a little crush on her, but she didn't give me a second glance. Your father and I had some good times in law school, Miles grinned wickedly. I remember some nights, chasing girls, all of us drunk….. Those were the days…

Oh really? Elizabeth said, looking at her father. I thought you were a book worm Daddy, who studied all the time?

Well, I had some fun times, Ned grinned. And then I met your mother….. She put a stop to whatever ideas I had about other women.

Elizabeth giggled. Well, you'll have to tell me more about it, Daddy, about your wild days.

See Miles? Ned joked. Now you have me in trouble with my daughter.

Just don't tell your mother Elizabeth. Miles smiled, deep in thought. I miss California. I haven't been there in years. After I graduated, I took a job in New Jersey, and after a while, moved here to New York…..

For the next hour, he talked more about himself, and then they got to the matter at hand. Elizabeth felt like she was in over her head, listening to all the legalities of buying property. She couldn't understand half of what they were talking about, and she felt a sense of relief that her father was with her. He seemed so confident, so sure of everything that the two men discussed, and she knew then what a good idea it was to call him for help with her potential purchase.

They two men laid out all the terms, requirements and asked lots of questions that Elizabeth didn't even consider, till she was assured that everything would go smoothly.

The next day, she brought her father to her apartment in Williamsburg, and could see from the look on his face that he was not happy with where she was living.

This is your room? Ned said, looking critically the small space. I see.

Ned walked over to the small bed and peered out the window.

I don't want to say it, but you have to get out of here, he said, turning around.

Dad, it's not that bad.

Not that bad! Ned shook his head. From what I see, this neighborhood isn't safe!

Don't think I didn't notice all the men downstairs, hanging out on the stoop, gawking at my daughter! If your mother was here, she'd agree with me!

Daddy….. Elizabeth grabbed her father's arm, not wanting to argue. I told Mr Avery that we would meet him at eleven. So let's go.

Within an hour, they met the realtor and Elizabeth watched as her father walked around both apartments, her breath held as he looked throughout the rooms.

Well? Elizabeth said. What do you think Dad?

I like it. It's brand new, the building is clean, and I like the security. Also, I love the fact that there's nothing but water in front of us. And the windows are sound proof. And the view. This is amazing, Ned said, looking out the window. And buying more than one apartment is a solid investment.

Oh, yes, that's what I told your daughter, Mr Avery said, and the two men prattled on more about real estate trends. Within the same day, an offer was made, and the contract negotiations began. Elizabeth knew the whole process usually took several weeks, but she felt a huge weight had been taken off her shoulders.

Later that evening, with all the business matters dealt with, Elizabeth went to lower Manhattan and took her father for a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, where they sat facing west, watching the statue of liberty in the distance.

I just can't believe, can't believe my daughter is about to buy real estate in New York City. You've all grown up so fast, Ned said, a hint of sadness in his voice.

Dad, Elizabeth said, putting her hand on Ned's arm. She wasn't used to seeing her father so emotional. It was bound to happen eventually. Me moving away. I promise to come home more often, she said, trying to appease him. Or you and Mom can visit me, she said. I'll have the room, soon, after I move in.

Probably sooner than expected, after you hear about my little surprise,! she thought to herself.

I'm really happy you're here now, Elizabeth remarked, giving her father a hug. So how long will it take? Before I can move in?

Perhaps four to six weeks, Ned answered, as he focused his camera. Miles will do everything, and will keep in touch with you as it all goes along. We just have to wait till it's all settled till closing. And then you can get out of that little place you call your home….

After taking her father sightseeing, they went to Junior's restaurant for dinner, where Ned ordered some cheesecake to take home to his wife. The next day Elizabeth dropped him off at the airport, and she couldn't help but feel guilty, as she watched him walk into the aircraft gangway. The next time he sees me, I'll have a big belly. Then I'll have some real explaining to do…