For the sake of further convenience, a matching series of hanging signs labels the components of the strip mall: ABC Toyworks, Sporting Goods, General Nutrition, Beauty Supply, Mail Boxes Etc., Hair Perfect, Starbucks. A malformed little man sits cross-legged on the sidewalk, greets many of the passers-by. "Hi there. How are you? You're a pretty lady." Flies hover so steadily in the shade that it seems they are suspended on wires. An American flag at one end of the parking lot is moved by a breeze that does not reach another two further down. "How are you? Have a great day. God bless you." A willowy girl, beautiful but for terrible acne, laughs along with two male friends, not wanting to have sex with them but wanting them to want her, looking them in the eyes, laughing, wanting to be wanted. A toddler spins in place, almost falls, spins again. Three skateboarders push themselves by, one hoisting his board up and stomping it down as if hopping over an invisible something. A car alarm sounds, is virtually ignored. "I'm not rude. I'm a great man."

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