Original subtitles

Hey, Gary, don't forget.

Block Association meeting this Thursday.

Yep, got the iCal invite.

All three of them.

Perfect.

Welcome to Advanced Lunch Hour German.

Hallo, Mitschula.

Mein Name ist Nate.

Ich bin Arthur und veröffentliche bald mein erstes Buch.

Hey! Bella!

There you are!

Hurry up or I'll lose my gift certificate, princess!

I'm sorry, class ran over.

I have to pick up Matt to dry cleaning.

Why can't you just love an Italian or something?

German's so ugly.

Honestly, I think it's sexy.

Makes me feel like an endangered species.

You should really examine that. Less chattering, more paddling, okay?

Final climb, let's go!

In three, two, one!

Turn it up!

If you ever see me carrying drive-thru for a man, fucking shoot me.

It's called division of labor.

And what's his labor?

Paying rent so I can focus on writing my book.

Oh, how's that going?

Great. But Matt can't be a library membership.

I think he thinks if I work in public, I won't procrastinate as much by jerking

off. Because there aren't any bathrooms in a library?

I know. It makes no sense.

Besides, maybe I wouldn't need to procrastinate so much if we just... Had

a little bit more sex.

Maybe he's at a point where he needs a little help.

You're right.

No more leaving things to chance.

I'm going to go home and pounce on him as soon as he gets home from work. Wait,

where are you going? You need to help me run lines for my audition.

I have to prepare.

It's not even four.

Gay love is a sacrifice.

Love you.

You owe me!

Matt?

Nick?

Rory? Hey, I didn't know you were joining us. What the fuck is going on?

I thought you were working in the library.

He said you knew.

It was more of a non-verbal agreement.

That you just invented?

I'm getting some bad vibes here. Maybe we do an energy circle.

Get out, Rory. I really think I could help with... Out!

Oh, okay. Um, yep.

Go! Okay. Yep, walking.

How long has this been going on?

It's the first time.

Oh, my God. This is why you got me the library membership, to... Get me out of

the way. Let's not pretend things haven't been rocky for a while.

Literally, what are you talking about?

We haven't had sex in months.

Because you've been too stressed to get it up. Stressed because of you.

You don't give me any room to breathe. I need space.

Which is why we moved to a bigger apartment.

An apartment, bitch, I pay for.

You said it was fine while I'm working on my book.

For a bit. It's been over a year.

You have zero obligations. How are you not finished yet?

This is the

problem. You're constantly doing things, picking up dry cleaning, doing my

laundry, learning German. Sorry for taking care of you because I love you?

I don't need an assistant, Nate.

I need a boyfriend.

I don't even know who you are anymore.

You're so devoted, it's suffocating.

Fine. I'll do it.

Nate.

Nate.

It was just a blowjob.

You cheated.

I think we were both dishonest in different ways.

You won't even apologize?

I'm so done.

Come on.

Nate.

You have no money.

You barely speak to your parents and they're halfway across the country

anyway. And that little rich daddy's girl that you're friends with doesn't

have a trust fund big enough for two.

You have nowhere to go.

Watch me.

It's me. Let me in.

It's an emergency.

What is it, baby?

What's happening?

Jesus Christ.

Is there blood or broken bones?

No, but...

Give me your best room, please.

Sorry, sir. This was declined.

I have this one.

This was also declined.

That was fast.

No.

Can't go there.

Out of the question.

No.

Haven't talked to her in years.

No.

I was married a virgin.

Led on my wedding night and everything.

Oh my God, ew.

You know, you young people, you just jump into things so quickly.

Matt and I were together for over two years.

Your grandfather courted me for months before I ever even agreed to go out on a

date with him.

Okay, but in gay years, that's longer than the two of you have been, like,

alive.

Didn't he work in finance?

Good-looking fella.

Yep. Yeah, he could have done worse.

Saul. How is that helpful?

And he was German.

Swiss German.

Well, that's worse.

Bystanders. Please just let it go.

Honey, we are just worried about you. You're almost 30.

I am 29.

And a half.

You got dumped.

Okay, technically, I was the one who left him. Well, you show up in the

middle of the night, unannounced. I texted you I was coming.

You declare that you're moving in. I am not moving in.

Okay, I am a sophisticated New Yorker. I am just staying until I figure things

out. Darling, we understand.

You're brokenhearted.

You're broke. You have no prospects on the horizon.

Well, when you put it like that... You stay as long as you like, Ken.

We're so thrilled you're here.

Yeah.

Fuck is that?

I think this car is older than I am. Well, you maintain things, they last.

Oh, Jesus!

Watch it!

Oh, my God.

Okay, I didn't hit you.

Okay, what can I do for you today, Nate?

I would like to do a full STD panel.

Any particular reason you're looking to get tested?

I recently found out that I was in an open relationship with my now ex

-boyfriend, so yeah.

Did you use protection with this former partner?

No, we were in a long-term monogamous relationship.

So you thought.

All right, well, this will just pinch a bit.

Okay.

You're in good veins.

Thank you.

Oh my God.

You okay?

I just, I don't like blood.

In there.

How is your gag reflex?

Excuse you?

For the throw culture?

Never had any complaints.

Open.

Okay.

So how long before I get the results?

Not long, just a few days.

Okay, will you call me or app me or what?

I will be in touch.

Look, I'm new to this sad little town, but...

From my experience in the city, some doctors call only if there's something

wrong, and other doctors call no matter what. So I'm just trying to figure out

what kind of doctor you are.

A good one.

Okay, but you see, now if you call and I miss it, I'm just going to assume

there's something wrong, which would make me panic, which would really not be

good for me right now. So if I could just know what the protocol is, that

would be really helpful in managing my anxiety. You know, we do offer mental

health services in this sad little town, if you're interested.

I will be leaving a very angry Google review.

Great. Just make sure that you leave a urine sample before you go.

Angry or otherwise.

Would you stop that? You're making me dizzy.

How's that book of yours coming along?

It's fine, Papa.

You have a publisher?

No, I have to finish writing it first.

You know, in my day, we got commissions to write books.

Yeah, well, in your day, people actually read them.

Besides, you wrote college textbooks. It's really not the same thing.

What's your book about?

It's a coming-of-age love story told through texts and pictures that these

two boys from rival high schools send each other.

They mail books and pictures to each other?

No, like on their phones.

Texts and pictures.

Pictures of what?

Themselves.

Is that your only idea?

It's a good idea.

It's super contemporary and immersive.

So you get to experience the story like kids today do.

It's like a modern take on Love Letter in romance novels.

Think Romeo and Romeo.

Minus the suicide.

Well, it's not too late to go to medical school. I get queasy at the sight of

blood. Oh.

Law school, business school.

Sometimes adults have to do things they don't want to.

People with backup plans fail.

This is what I'm doing.

Don't you want to get your life on the road?

You know, when I was your age, I already had two kids. Okay, honestly, that's

just irresponsible.

Ah!

Respect your elders.

Lunch!

Oh. Yum.

It's not every day the food police lets us have grilled cheese.

Don't get used to it.

Night's moving in a special occasion.

Again, not moving in. Just crashing until I figure things out.

Oh, speaking of which, I did some research on some law schools you might

consider in case the book doesn't sell. Oh, my God.

Please, just give it a rest, okay?

Sweetie, we're just trying to be helpful.

I am fine.

I don't want to talk about my career.

Or my relationships.

Or my future.

What's left to talk about then?

Maybe some silence will do us good.

What is the matter with you?

This expired in 1992.

Still good.

No reason to waste.

Oh well.

This place is effin' nuts.

Oh my god.

I can't believe you live in your grandparents' old person place.

Well, you won't let me live with you, so... Bad boy, come now!

Did you get a dog?

I'm babysitting. My parents are making me.

That's a human you're talking to?

Excuse me, sorry.

Namaste.

Okay,

go!

Wow. Someone must really hate their kid to leave them with you.

Why don't you just find a new place?

I am poor.

Maybe not like a palace if the one you have is not.

No, like any place.

I've used up all my savings.

That's good parents for help.

And give them the satisfaction of being right?

No.

So then get a job.

Turns out there's a lot of rich people who pay good money not to spend time

with... I need to focus on my book.

So then, focus and then come back.

Yeah, if I could get a single moment of peace.

This place is gonna kill me.

Not moving in.

Look what you've done to me.

Is everything okay?

Am I dying?

Am I speaking with Nate?

Obviously!

Hi, Nath.

Sorry to be calling you so late, but I got your test results and I figured

you'd like to know.

Christ, I'm dying.

Fuck! All of your tests came back negative.

Oh, thank God.

Oh,

that's okay. That's from freshman year of college.

Oddly, also from a guy named Matt.

Why didn't you just message me?

Well, I mean, most of our...

Patients aren't very tech-savvy, so I usually call.

Any other questions?

No, thank you so much.

I may be stuck here in the middle of Jew-ware, far away from my life, my

friends, and any acceptable exercise facilities, but I am strong, I am

healthy, and you are just a sad, dumb whore. And no one will ever love you.

Hello?

Freeze! Papa?

Don't tell your grandma.

Nutter butter?

Oh, my God. Those were my favorite as a kid.

Wait, they haven't been here since I was a kid, have they?

They're fresh to me.

Huh?

How many calories are in these?

In my day, we didn't have calories.

We just ate when we were hungry.

Whatever. I'm depressed.

Might as well get fat, too.

You gonna be alright, kid?

I'll live, apparently.

That's good.

It's good to live.

Did you know there are still...

Two million less Jews alive today than there were before the Holocaust.

I did not.

This is why every Jew must have at least two children, Nate.

Remember that. At least two.

To make up for all the lives lost.

Okay. Noted.

I'd like to see you settled before I go, kid.

Go where?

Oh, Nate. Nate.

Your sister's married. Your brother's married. They each have two children.

Yeah, but they live in, like, a field in Ohio, so... Why can't you settle down?

Find a nice Jewish girl to marry.

What? To date.

Start something real.

I don't know.

Maybe because I'm gay?

Gay?

Yeah.

Matt and I, Papa, we came here for the last two Passovers.

And... The Matt before him, the one from college?

When he gave me an STD, you kept insisting we get married because he

deflowered me.

Who?

The Matts, Papa. My boyfriends. Well, ex-boyfriends. You remember Matt.

Of course.

Your friend, Matt. Good-looking fella.

I forgot.

You forgot?

I forgot.

Wait, what?

It's not a good lifestyle, Nate.

Those kinds of relationships, they never last very long.

Look at what happened to you.

Where is this coming from? You've never had a problem with gay people. I don't.

I just want to see you settled, safe, married.

So I'll marry a man.

It's not the same.

You need stability.

Bother you I'm gay Papa I Guess I wish

all things being equal you weren't

Morning. Oh, morning, dear.

Coffee?

Ew. What?

That?

Oh, do you want some?

I'm good.

So what can I get you for breakfast?

Let's see. Oh, I have pancakes. I can make you French toast.

Nothing, thanks. I just want to get back to work.

The sooner I finish my book, the sooner I can get out of here.

I'll have some pancakes.

I'm making you egg whites.

I at least have the whole egg.

He has high blood pressure.

He can't have anything sweet.

Since when do you have high blood pressure?

Okay, well, no more midnight snacks.

You had like 10 cookies last night.

Here's your drugs.

Oh, sweetie, whatever you're working on, I would love to read it.

Do you know that I used to edit all of your grandfather's books?

Co-wrote, more like.

Every chapter she'd edit would come back half new. Oh, my God, how we did fight.

Don't make the same mistakes I did, kid.

Your grandmother is always right.

I think your eggs are burning.

Papa?

Do you remember the conversation we had last night?

About what?

Like, life?

Mmm, here you go.

Mmm.

You can have more if you want.

Oh, so, what say you, sir?

Sure, whatever.

Wonderful. Would it be like old times, Saul?

Give me what you got, and I'll get right to it.

What? Your book. I'm gonna edit it. No, I meant I'll have some eggs. I'm still

finishing my outline.

The outline?

You better get cracking, mister.

The only difference between a professional writer and an amateur one

is a deadline.

10 pages by the end of the day today.

Chop, chop.

Wait, where are you off to? I need caffeine to write.

What's the matter with my coffee?

Backwash. Okay.

Grandma, is Papa okay?

Of course. Why wouldn't he be?

We had this conversation last night, and I'm not sure that he remembers it.

Oh, Nate, honey, one of the greatest things about the human mind is the

ability to forget the little things.

Okay, but this wasn't little.

What do you say?

I think maybe he should see a doctor.

I was Googling, and these things can happen at your age.

Nate, he's my husband.

I know what he needs. And when I say he's fine, that means he's fine. Okay,

but... What if there's something they can do to help? You know, when doctors

go looking for things, they find them. Go. Go work on your book. Grandma, we

have to talk about... End of discussion, Nate.

Saul, what are you doing?

I'm changing the bulb there. No, get away from that thing. Jesus Christ.

We don't do that anymore.

Who's going to do it then?

We're going to ask Nate to do it later.

I had a kid. Yes.

What did you say to him last night?

Nothing.

You sure?

He seems upset.

I know.

What is this?

First he's asking me what I'm saying. Now you're asking me what he's saying

I'm saying. I don't know what anyone is saying.

All right, all right. Just think before you speak in front of him, okay?

I don't want him to get the wrong impression.

Miriam.

Is there something wrong with me?

No.

No.

Everything's fine.

Come on, read the paper.

And we are going to discuss it later.

So sorry, is there a Starbucks around here?

One more of this alcohol-infused urine, please.

Make it a double.

Here.

Try this.

Well,

now how am I gonna get home?

Thanks for picking me up.

Oh, you're really torn up about all of this, aren't you?

I really thought Matt was the one, but now I don't know if I miss him or I just

hate being alone.

Okay, come on. Let's just get you home.

All right? That's why you don't put all your eggs in one basket.

Are you saying I should have cheated first?

I'm saying it's wonderful that you're fully committed, but it can make people

panic. People do stupid things when they panic.

Let me in. It's open, I think. It's locked.

Do it.

Okay, yeah.

So it's my fault he cheated?

It's your fault you let yourself become dependent.

People only screw you if you let them. Okay, if it were me he were screwing, we

would not be having this issue.

Why are you taking his side?

I'm not.

I just want you to look at things from his perspective so maybe you can learn

from this.

Whatever.

I just want to finish my book so I can get back to my life in the city.

Then Matt'll see what a huge freaking mistake he's made. Have you finished

your pages?

No.

If you're serious about being a writer, you better start writing.

No more whining. Just get to work or, you know, give up and get a job.

Okay, then.

From your perspective.

Sure.

Nice shot, Slobo!

Honestly,

she kind of scares me.

Aw, you miss me?

You were holding back before?

True.

I don't know, maybe I did put too much pressure on him.

Okay, you are not supposed to agree.

I haven't stopped.

are you oh my god hey nate nice to see you

again are you out of your mind it's called multitasking you should try it

might finish your book faster i didn't mean anything by it no i didn't no

one can wear every color and i just don't think hi oh deb you won't believe

who just walked in yeah i'm sure

Why would you do that?

I don't want Mom to know I'm here. Why on earth not?

Because she's disapproved of every decision I've made since graduating

college, and I really don't want to hear I told you so for the millionth time.

She's your mother. Why can't the two of you get along?

She's your daughter. Why can't you?

Fine. Okay, I'll make you a deal. Give me ten pages a day, and I will keep your

secret.

Deal?

Deal.

You better keep your promise.

Nothing unites people more than a common enemy.

Why are these all red?

This is what happens when they stop teaching grammar in public schools.

And why are the start of all your sentences without capitals? It's a

style. It's supposed to read like text messages.

Yeah, well, no publisher is going to want to use it.

Ignore that.

What do you think about the story?

I found it quite sad, honestly.

What? Why? It is not sad. They're falling in love.

Yes, but they've never met.

That's why they're sending each other pictures and stuff. To get to know each

other. That's why young people get divorced right and left nowadays.

You know, in my day, you didn't get to know somebody by looking at their

pictures or sharing meaningless stats.

I mean, it's great to be an animal lover, but who cares if you love otters,

bears? Okay, that does not mean what you think it means.

Yeah, but what difference does it make what their favorite food is or their

favorite movie?

Just establishing some basic compatibility.

Well, look at your grandfather.

He's not particularly tall. He only eats junk food and hits the worst taste in

movies. Good morning.

And here we are, still married, 60 years later.

I used to be 5'10 1⁄2". The point is shared values and a common worldview. I

mean, these are much better indicators.

of compatibility than what's in those pages what a shallow way to start a

relationship what do you think pops i agree with your grandmother

two of you meet at a dance it was um it was a harvard bu mixer

your grandfather left his date and came over to me to introduce himself well

that's rude i thought she was the prettiest girl i'd ever seen so i took a

chance Okay, so basically, you ditched the girl you were with because you

thought Grandma was hot.

It's not like they were going steady, dear.

Yeah, but it wasn't shared values. It was just attraction.

Yeah, but that's different.

It's a different way of expressing it.

Right.

Thanks for the notes. Okay, capitalize your sentences.

Helene, what is the temperature outside?

Have you seen my phone or laptop?

I can't find that.

Now I missed it.

Helene, repeat.

It is currently 60 degrees.

Maybe I should grab a sweater.

I can't find my laptop.

I put it in the safe.

I'm sorry, what?

Shabbos starts at sundown. No electronics on Shabbos. You must be

joking. I read in the Times.

A digital detox is vital for creativity, so I decided this week you're gonna

observe and go to shul with us.

I don't do shul.

You will if you want your computer back.

That is religious coercion God would not approve.

Well, I'm gonna risk it.

It's not even noon yet. What am I supposed to do until then?

Reflect on your bad decisions and just decide to make better ones.

Helene. What are boundaries?

I'm sorry, I can't help you with that right now.

Oh, come on. Hurry up, Nate. We're gonna be late.

Come on.

I look ridiculous.

Oh, God, I forgot my keys. No, I'm driving. I drive like a lunatic.

Wait, oh.

Hey, let's go. Okay, we're coming.

Thank you for opening the door, both of you.

I'm such a gentleman.

I'm not used to this.

Get in.

Okay.

See? He's got a pull on it. Yeah, I got it.

And I'm in. All right.

This thing is so

annoying. And you make fun of us for not being able to use basic technology?

Practice makes perfect, James.

Nice and easy. I got it. I got it. Okay.

Okay, but slow on the clutch, slow on the clutch. There you go.

Two hands on the wheel.

Yeah.

Can I just point out the irony of you guys taking away my phone because I'm

not supposed to use devices on Shabbos, but here we are driving to shul.

Well, you're allowed to break the rules if you're old and it's for your health.

Well, my phone helps my mental health.

No. That day we didn't have mental health. You just got on with it.

Wait, don't wait for me. Okay, don't wait. And so the Israelites had a

choice. Remain in the known bondages of Egypt or follow

Moses on the treacherous journey to an unknown new life.

I'm starving.

So God instructs Moses to tell the children of Israel on his behalf, I

am Adonai.

And I, the Lord God.

Nate!

Nate!

Nathaniel Benjamin!

Jesus Christ! Sorry, Rabbi. Do not yell my name. You will not believe who's

here. Nate, I want you to meet our dear friend Magda. This is her husband,

Seymour. Seymour is a survivor of Auschwitz.

Pleasure. I wasn't.

No, I just meant it's nice to meet you. Didn't you crash my oy vey karate class

the other day?

Uh, no. Mm-mm.

It's so wonderful to finally meet you.

Your grandparents speak so very of you.

Thank you.

Oh, how's your novel coming along?

It's fine.

Oh, you know, I used to be dean of students at Yale Law School. If you ever

want to discuss other options... What a lovely offer.

Isn't that lovely, Nate?

Yale.

Please excuse me. I'm gonna go hide in the bathroom till this is over.

Oh Nice suit Thanks, it's

my grandfather's Oh Dr.

Green hi Shabbat Shalom This is my grandson.

I was telling you about Nate. This is dr. Green. We've met yes But did you

know that dr. Green is also a homosexual Oh Oh, my God.

You know, Nate's been really lonely since he moved in with us, so I thought

maybe the two of you might be friends.

Ah, moved in.

This whole life went up in flames, but that's what family is for. We are so

lucky to be able to support and take care of one another.

Exceedingly.

Okay, everybody, come on. Let's go back to our house.

We are gonna leave the young people to get acquainted.

Uh, excuse me.

I gotta drive you home? It's Shabbos. Don't be silly. We walk.

So,

you know my grandparents?

Great people.

I did not know that you lived with them.

Yes, well...

I wish I had more time with mine. Mine passed when I was a kid. I'm sorry.

This is nice. You don't take it for granted. No.

Oh.

Oh,

no. My days of Jubal are long past.

Come on.

You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. Oh, my God.

Okay. Look,

I'm sorry about what happened when you called the other day.

I wasn't talking to you. I was talking to a framed picture of my ex. I didn't

realize the call was still going.

A framed picture of your ex?

My grandma wanted me to try writing my book from his perspective.

Okay.

Okay.

Did that work?

No. He's a bitch, but I don't think you're a sad, dumb whore that no one

will ever love.

That was just too kind of you, truly.

I mean, I'm sure someone, somewhere... I'm gonna guess that Yom Kippur is a

little bit of a difficult time for you, since apologizing is not really a strong

suit. It is very rarely that I have to do it.

I'm a good person.

Living here, I am basically Job. Wow, a living saint.

Okay, why are you torturing me?

I'll tell you what.

If you make this basket, I will give you my direct number.

Like, in case the old people need something, or... Are you asking me on a

date?

Yes.

Okay, yes what?

First, yes.

Whoa, wait, just...

Bend your knees.

A little bit.

And, uh, sorry.

Aim for the square, not for the hoop.

You got this.

Oh!

What?

Yeah.

Thomas is capped.

Thank you, Doctor.

Please call me Daniel.

So you're going to call him?

I don't have my phone.

At sundown.

No, I am not a serial killer.

I'll text him.

Who are we talking about?

Dr. Green.

Are you sick?

No.

Dr. Green is courting Nate. We introduced him last night at show,

remember?

A doctor is good, kid.

You approve?

Oh, yes. If you're not going to become a doctor, you may as well pursue one.

It's a very honorable profession.

Oh, my God, totally husband material.

But I don't know, you know, it's so soon after mat number two, and I don't even

know how long I'm going to stay here. Don't overthink and complicate

everything. You might not even like each other.

Just take it one step at a time.

Just easy does it.

So how many kids would you like?

Um... I don't know.

But you definitely want kids, right?

Like, in future?

Yes, yes.

Eventually, I think so.

Good.

Papa says every Jew has to have at least two kids, because apparently there's

still, like, two million less Jews alive today than there were before the

Holocaust.

Thank you.

Sorry, it's been a minute since I've been on a first date.

Me too.

Surprising as it may sound, dating opportunities are a bit scarce around

here. Why don't you live in the city?

I did.

Yeah, it wasn't for me.

You know, too much social climbing and clout chasing.

This is more my speed.

Yeah, but the city's what you make of it.

The options are limitless.

Our rabbi says that options are not always a blessing.

People get overwhelmed. They start making mistakes.

My ex made a lot of mistakes.

Cheers.

L'chaim.

Did you grow up religious?

Ish. I got serious in college.

Really? Yeah, I mean, black, gay, Jewish.

I felt a little bit lost.

I needed a community, yeah.

That's why I joined an acapella group.

Yeah, it's a little bit different.

Judaism is a way to never feel alone in the world.

Right on.

So, how long are you planning on staying in this sad little town?

Okay, look, I know it's lame. I live with my grandparents.

No, no, it's not lame. It is sweet.

They totally drive me crazy.

Yeah, that is what fame is for.

But it is good for them to have company at their age.

Yeah. And living rent-free while I work on my book isn't the worst thing in the

world.

What's the book about?

Well, it's a love story.

What did you say? What?

He said, come sit with us?

How do you know?

Yiddish is basically the same as German.

I don't want German spoken in my house, or Yiddish for that matter

either. And since when do you speak Yiddish?

I haven't used it in years.

It's my mama lotion. It's what my parents spoke to me.

It's Miriam's famous Brussels sprouts, and they're ready.

I hate Brussels sprouts.

They remind me of the war.

Korea? Yeah.

That's all they fed us on the ship over.

Two weeks of nothing but Brussels sprouts.

And trying not to roll around on the deck when we slept.

We had cots in the hull of the ship, but we never used them in case we got

torpedoed. You?

You slept on a deck?

Yeah, that way if we got hit, we could still swim.

Not that I ever learned how.

You never told me about that.

You never asked me.

Did you get seasick?

Seasick, homesick, lovesick.

Left that one behind.

We weren't engaged yet.

Well, how'd you stay in touch?

Yeah, you know, letters.

And now and then a phone call.

That is just like my book. Oh? Yes!

Except without war and, like, the imminent threat of death.

Were you scared?

After being a kid in Dachau?

I was proud to fight for my new country.

Wow. I remember those days like it was yesterday.

Oh, listen to this, kid. You'll like this one. One time, I waited in line

three hours to make my five-minute phone call. Three hours I waited. And the

fella in front of me was talking to your grandmother.

What? Well, we weren't engaged.

I was at liberty to pursue other options.

Your grandmother had many suitors.

Wait, you knew?

Certainly.

I was her mother's least favorite because I came from a poor family, but I

strategized. That would drive me crazy if the guy I was dating was seeing other

people. No, well, that's how we did it then.

You weren't considered exclusive until you were engaged.

No commitment until there was a full and thorough assessment.

Ooh, that's good.

I'm going to write that down.

Solid start, solid start.

Yeah, not bad, not bad. I mean, you swing like you're 100, but yeah.

Not bad when in Rome Your turn

Okay,

sometimes the old-fashioned way works better just please please This is

way more fun than basketball a true gentleman sport.

I learned from grandma. You're only saying that cuz you're winning

Basketball got me through residency. It's soothing.

Okay.

So, did you always want to be a doctor?

No. No, I wanted to be a classical pianist.

I played in college, but my parents said that that is a hobby, not a career.

So what, they just forced you to go to Harvard Medical School?

How did you know I went to Harvard?

Did you Google me? No.

Maybe. Okay.

It is publicly available information.

Okay, crazy.

Papa proves, by the way, he says a Harvard man can be trusted.

Although,

no, no, they didn't force me.

They told me I could go to any law or medical school that I wanted.

How generous.

I mean, you're right.

I wasn't good enough to be a professional musician.

I mean, I like what I do. I do.

You know, in the Talmud it says that any person that saves a single soul is

considered to save the whole world.

You're a hero.

I admire what you do.

It takes grit.

I guess.

I don't know. Everyone I went to college with is already like...

running some Fortune 500 company or whatever, and here I am, pushing 30 and

living with my grandparents.

While writing a book.

Yeah.

I don't know, what if I've spent all this time on it, and then it sucks, and

nobody wants it, and all I've accomplished is condemning myself to a

life of poverty and mediocrity. Hey, hey, stop. Stop.

You cannot win the race if you're always worried about losing.

Just trust it.

Okay.

Sports metaphors aside, pretty smart.

Well, yeah, I went to Harvard, so. Oh my God, shut up.

I mean, yeah.

Hey, Grandma.

There you are, darling.

We really missed you at supper tonight.

How did you know Papa was the one?

Nathaniel, do you remember me telling you not to rush into things?

You told me to take a chance.

To explore, not to go all in.

That's how you got hurt last time.

I'm not saying I'm getting engaged. I just wanted to know.

Like, how did you know you wanted to marry Papa and not say... That other guy

who called you from Korea.

Well, he died.

Wandered over a landmine.

Excuse me?

It was a war, and I really wasn't that interested in him.

So, you always knew it was Papa?

No.

That's the kind of thing that only happens in the movies.

We didn't rush into things, Nate.

We took our time. We went slowly.

We became best friends first.

Okay, but what about Spark?

Romance? We aren't sure of that, yeah.

necking in the back of movie theaters. That doesn't last, darling.

And then you have to ask, what's left?

What's left that I have to build on?

Okay, so when did you know?

When he asked me.

That was a beautiful moment of clarity.

Just like that?

Well, you're flirting, two years of dating, a romantic trip to the

Catskills, and then, yes, Just like that.

That sounds incredible.

The fact that it really pissed my mother off made it even better.

Okay.

That's it.

Thank you, sweetheart.

Good night, Grandma.

Good night, honey. I'll see you in the morning.

Slow down

You're safe,

safe now

It's

time to feel

The tears come out, he knows the deal You're

right here, just slow down

Just

slow down Just slow

down

Just lay...

What's wrong?

Did someone die?

What?

No, everything's fine. I'm just returning your call. I was busy writing

last night.

It's like 8 in the morning.

I know. I just finished my run and wanted to say hi before getting back to

work. Are you okay?

Yeah, I'm great. I have a routine.

What's his name?

I don't know what you're talking about.

answering your phone and you sound chirpy and it's not even known.

Okay. His name is Daniel.

Dr. Daniel.

Like MD.

Can't you just find a doctor in the city?

It's really not that bad here.

You should come visit.

You mean my grandparents and Dr.

Daniel? You are not staying there.

I'm just taking things one day at a time.

Your uncharacteristic optimism is scaring me.

Love you. Bye.

Good morning.

Guten Morgen, Opa.

Es macht Spaß, dass wir unsere kleine Geheimsprache haben.

Was heißt?

Yiddish, Deutsch.

We can understand each other.

Yeah,

I don't like German.

It's basically the same as Yiddish.

The accent, the feel, it's different.

Yiddish is like a warm bowl of chicken soup.

The German's like an ice bath.

You making good progress with your book?

I think three quarters of the way there, I think.

I miss writing.

Well, why don't you then?

A writer needs an exciting present or a vision for the future.

Or a perspective on the past to pass on.

You don't write just because you want to, Nate.

You write because you have to.

I've said what I had to say.

And you've influenced the education of, like, entire generations, Papa.

I could only dream of having that kind of impact.

A good story can change the world, kid.

You're much more powerful than a textbook.

People forget details, but they never forget how you make them feel.

You think I can do that?

If all those other schmucks can, why not you?

But if not, business school's not going anywhere.

Got to ruin it.

Okay, this is strong.

Okay, you are a lightweight.

I'm going to need like 10 more drinks to get on your level.

Don't hold back on my account.

Do you know what might be super fun?

A weekend getaway.

We can find like a cute little cabin somewhere.

Sleepover, huh?

Could be a life-changing adventure.

Okay.

Why don't we just start with the locals and sleepover first, right?

Okay. Yeah.

Are you actually into me or are we just doing this because there's no other gays

around? I literally just asked you to go away together.

Why haven't we?

You know?

Okay. I have just been taking things slowly because my grandma told me to.

Hmm? Look, she was married a virgin and things worked out pretty well for her.

But you're not going to make me wait till marriage, right?

No.

No.

No.

I... I have just been trying a new approach.

Or like, an old one, rather.

I've been taking things slow because... I think we have something real here.

What time frame are we talking about?

Does that mean I like tradition?

I do.

But not that much.

Yeah, I think I just about hit my limit.

Be quiet, be quiet, be quiet.

Wait, they're here?

Yeah, but it's okay. They don't wear their hearing aids to bed.

Fuck, that feels so good.

You okay, huh? Yeah. Yeah? Yeah, do it.

Oh, you feel so good.

I feel so good.

Oh, you?

You too. I love you.

What?

No, sorry, I...

It's your grandfather he's having a stroke or a seizure or something doctor.

Can you come?

Right,

okay, right right, okay

Hey, now!

Up on your side. Come on.

And we'll say, Amen.

The good news is that Mr. Cohen is... Dr.

Cohen. Sorry, yes.

Dr. Cohen shouldn't show any significant damage from this episode.

Oh, that's wonderful.

He had a TIA. It's a mini-stroke, which is going to need to up his blood

thinners.

Yeah. And the bad news?

His hippocampus, it's the area in the brain that's responsible for learning

and for memory. It's significantly smaller than usual, which...

almost always is an indication of a neurological problem.

Is that why he keeps speaking in Yiddish?

I mean, it's unusual, but it's not unheard of. You know, for people with

progressive dementia to forget their second language, even if they've been

speaking it for years.

Has Dr.

Cohen shown any other signs of forgetfulness?

No. Yes.

No, Nate, let me handle this.

Okay, but he has... It's normal for older people to forget smaller things,

you know, from time to time. This was not just small little things. Nate,

please don't interrupt me.

I'm speaking to the doctor. Okay, but Grandma... Enough.

He forgot I was gay.

What? When I first moved in, at first I thought he was joking, but he wasn't. He

actually forgot.

Oh, well, then you must have misunderstood.

We have always been supportive of you.

100% do not rewrite history because of one foolish comment. I know, that's

not... People are like computers.

Sometimes, as they get older, they develop bugs.

I wouldn't re-examine all of your relationship with your grandfather based

off of one instant. I know that. That is not my point. Thank you. Thank you.

Leave you to it.

He was really upset that night.

So you knew he forgot I was gay?

He didn't remember what he said. He was just confused and distraught that he had

upset you.

So now you're just covering all that up?

I'm handling it. You are too young to understand these things, Nate. Well,

maybe you're too old.

Look, I just want Papa to get the care he needs. And what do you think I want?

I don't know! You know what you want, but deliberately giving doctors the

wrong information is not fucking how bad you- Don't talk to me like that!

What is wrong with you?! God!

And now? Now what?

They are gonna run a few more tests, and then you can get him home, get him

comfortable. And maybe we'll hopefully clear up some of his confusion.

Great. Sounds good.

Okay.

Hey, Papa.

Where am I?

You're in the hospital, but everything's okay.

Dr. Green just needs to do a few more tests.

There's nothing wrong with me.

I'm here.

Oh, I guess it's good you learned German after all.

Yeah.

I should have listened to you.

We should have brought him in months ago.

We're doing it now.

I don't think he can read anymore.

What?

Every morning we used to read the paper together over coffee, but...

Lately, whenever I try to talk to him about it, it's like he has no clue

what's going on.

I don't know if he read it and forgot, or he just... He simply can't process

the words anymore.

I think he's pretending just to make me feel better.

Why didn't you tell me?

Because every time it happens, I hoped it would stop.

It's like a thousand little deaths.

He's still here.

slipping away.

And I'm not ready to let him go.

I can't.

I just can't let him go.

Hey, hey, hey, hey.

I'm sorry. This is not your responsibility.

You shouldn't have to deal with this. I had no idea.

And things would turn out this way when you moved in.

Stop. Stop.

Okay, I'm... Not staying, I know.

You are just here temporarily until you finish your book.

And you can get back to your life in the big city.

I was going to say I'm family.

We take care of each other.

Hello. There you are. I've been trying to reach you.

Yeah, I've just been really busy at work.

Listen, I just wanted to say thanks for all your help with Papa and stuff.

Yeah.

No worries. It's my job.

Look, I know our sleepover didn't work out nearly as well as we'd hoped, but...

I'm sorry, Nate.

I can't do this.

It's just too fast, too much.

Last week you were complaining things were moving too slowly.

I know, I know, but then after what happened with your grandparents and...

It's just so complicated.

And, I mean, you said what you said.

I was drunk.

It just slipped out. I know it's too soon to say I love you.

It has been great spending time with you, but when I look at the big

picture... I just don't see a compatible future.

What does that even mean?

I'm sorry.

Wait!

It's okay. Grandma's just out food shopping.

Is that so big?

Yes, of course she'll come back.

No, don't cry. You're okay.

You're okay.

You're okay.

I hate this.

I know, Papa.

I know.

I know.

I get this fog in my head, and I can't find the words.

It's...

It's like I'm back on that wretched boat trapped halfway in the middle of the

ocean.

Suddenly everything clears and I realize I'm not in the boat at all.

It's okay.

It's okay. It's okay, Papa.

Don't worry. I can help you change.

Come. Come.

It's okay.

I got you.

You're good.

This way.

No harm done.

So how's it going in here?

I can't do it. I can't finish my book.

I don't know the first thing about romance or anything.

Then come shopping with me.

Get out of the house.

It'll do both some good.

But what about Papa?

He'll be fine.

Come on, let's go.

Okay.

I don't get it, Grandma.

I did everything you said. I took my time. I focused on what's important.

We got along well.

The sex, though psychologically scarring, was good.

Everything lined up, so what did I do wrong?

Nothing, sweetheart.

Sometimes things just don't work out.

That's why it's better to explore.

than to overly invest.

I can't compartmentalize like you.

I was already envisioning our wedding on our second date.

You're just like your grandfather.

You're a feeler.

I don't want to feel this way.

It hurts too much.

There's no love without pain.

You'll eat more than one corn, yeah?

The more time you spend with each other, the deeper it cuts.

So it just gets worse?

If you're lucky.

Grandma. Hmm?

How are you holding up?

I'm sad.

Things are going to change.

And I am afraid of what comes next.

But I'm okay.

Thanks to you, we have so much to be grateful for.

Maybe it's good to feel this way?

Exactly.

And I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Neither would I.

When you get that done, we're out of here.

Where's the kid?

He's in his room.

What's he doing?

Hopefully not applying to law school.

Let's go to bed.

not knowing that Gertrude, the company cook, was in the kitchen.

It turns out, nice and easy was not always nice, and seldom easy.

But it added up to a life. A good life.

Together.

Alcohol-infused piss sure seems to have grown on you.

You on another?

Just the check, I think.

Good. Because we closed an hour ago.

Thank you for letting me stay.

What happened to your date?

Flying solo these days.

Sorry to hear that.

It's all good.

I haven't felt this much like myself in years.

We're not going to be here long. It's just a checkup. Yeah. Okay?

Good to see you again, Dr. Cohen, Mrs. Cohen.

Hello, Doctor.

How are you feeling?

Is it good to be back home?

It's always good to be home.

Good. Have you been having any other seizures or fainting spells since you

left the hospital?

I was in the hospital?

Yes, but everything's okay now.

Well, the good news is that your scans are stable and there's no evidence of

Alzheimer's in your blood work. Oh, that's excellent news.

Yeah. But?

But, based on these scans and the reported behavior, I'm certain that we

are dealing with some form of progressive dementia.

There is no shame to this, Dr. Cohen.

Really, we would all be lucky to be in such great shape at your age.

That's kind of you to say.

Is there anything we can do?

There is no way to reverse the damage once it's been done.

But there are some great medications that we can try.

Good nutrition, stimulating brain activity, exercise. It can all help to

slow the process.

Okay, Pops.

Starting tomorrow, you're coming to the gym with me.

I don't want to go to the gym.

Okay, well, sometimes adults have to do things they don't want to.

Last piece of advice that I would give.

Enjoy doing what you love with the people you love.

I will.

Thank you, doctor.

Absolutely.

All right, I will leave you to it.

Hey, Nate.

Wait.

I'm really sorry.

It's not your fault. Getting old sucks.

No, no, no, no. I meant between us.

I think I screwed up.

Don't worry about it.

I'm not worried. I'm... I'm sad.

I miss you.

Look, I overheard you speaking to your grandmother at the hospital, and when

she said that you were only planning on staying until you could afford to go

back to the city, I... I never said that. No, I know, I know, she did,

but... It was just all so complicated all of a sudden, and I...

I couldn't picture a future where we both could be happy.

And I figured if I was losing you, well, then I might as well.

I should have talked to you.

I panicked.

People do stupid things when they panic.

Could I make it up to you?

Talk it over through a dinner?

Yeah, I like that.

But, um... Maybe as friends?

Yeah, no... No, no, look, it wasn't just you. I always get ahead of myself and...

I don't know.

Maybe friends is a great place to start?

So, when is exile over?

Papa's not doing so well.

My grandparents need me right now. I know how hard it is to take care of

other people.

Come home soon?

I am home.

Three! Woo!

Four! Come on, build a barn!

Five!

You got it.

Six!

Don't give up! Two more, two more! Seven!

Oh, Nate!

How was your book? coming along when you're coming to talk about law school.

No offense, Seymour, but never.

Book. Finish.

Better pick up the pace there, Yale.

Harvard over here can already pedal at a four.

Bet you're pippic.

Okay, we really gotta get you some workout clothes.

Papa, you look like you're going to shul. I like looking presentable when I

leave the house.

Right on schedule.

How was the workout?

Torture. Kids tough as nails.

You're doing great, Pops. I'm going to jump in the shower. You two good from

here? Oh, no, no. Grandpa and I want to talk to you. Come on, take a walk with

us.

What's up?

Oh, Grandpa and I were going over what Dr. Green said.

You're doing so much better. I think the exercise is really helping.

We have to do it every day.

That's kind of how it works.

Fuck. Sorry.

You shouldn't have to do this with him.

Honestly, I love working out with the elderly.

I've never felt so fit in my life.

Yes, but you're putting your own life on hold.

Well, I'm not.

I'm happy.

You're comfortable.

There is a difference.

Come on, let's sit.

Such a beautiful spot.

My mother, Gigi, came to live with us the last two years of her life.

I cared for her while she died of cancer, and I swore I would never do

that to my children or grandchildren.

What are you saying?

When the time comes and things get messy, your grandfather and I don't want

you here.

I live here.

You should be with your friends, living a young person's life.

In case you forgot, I'm broke.

This came in the mail for you.

A publisher. Why didn't you tell us you finished your book?

Because I based the ending on you, and I didn't want to disappoint you in case

they said no.

Well, maybe you didn't want to disappoint us in case they said yes.

I don't want to know what it says.

Honey, this could be life-changing.

That's exactly my point.

No matter what this says, everything is going to change, and I... I don't want

anything to change. I want everything to stay just as it is.

Right here.

Right now.

Yeah, me too, kid.

But things change.

Papa, what if your condition gets worse?

What if no one else can understand you? We'll take care of it. I spoke to your

mom. We're going to make sure he gets everything he needs.

This isn't your responsibility.

These have been like the best months of my life.

Ours too, love.

We are proud of you.

Whatever that says.

I can't.

Okay, so we'll do it together, okay?

Ready?

You feel the pull But

you can't explain what it is Don't know

where it goes As close

your walk in the edge of the cliff

Can't see what it is.

Collide in real time.

Yesterday ends with tomorrow.