Life with Neighbors: 2007 edition

MrsDarwin: (knocks on neighbor's door, smooths bright red Tobasco apron. Door opens.) Hi! Sorry to be old-fashioned, but can I borrow some sugar?

Neighbor 1: (runs a hand through her spiky hair) Hmm. I don't think I have any granulated sugar. I have some raw sugar -- will that do?

MrsDarwin: Ooh, I don't know. It's for frosting. I'd go to the store, but I have to make it quickly.

Neighbor 1: (piercings flash as she shakes her head) I'm really sorry.

MrsDarwin: No problem. I'll ask on the other side. Thanks!

(MrsDarwin crosses her driveway to knock on the other neighbor's door. There's a rattle at the doorknob and a cry of ¡Diego, no! Babysitter opens the door.)

MrsDarwin: Hi, I'm from next door. I'm sorry to bother you -- may I borrow a cup of sugar please?

Babysitter: Let me see if she has any. (Door shuts. A string of Spanish is directed at young Diego, trying to make his escape.)

Babysitter: (peering out) It doesn't look like there's any.

MrsDarwin: Thanks anyway. I'll check next door.

(MrsDarwin looks over at the next neighbor's house. The neighbor is sitting in the car talking on her cell phone while her children clamber at the doors and try to get in.)

MrsDarwin: (sighing) Never mind. (She returns home.)

(A moment later, Darwin drives off to the store.)