A Short story

A Story by 21pens

"So what does inspire you Mr. Finch?"
"Mostly... Well... I guess watching people do what I can't and enjoy themselves."
"What kinds of things do you mean?"
"Heh, lots of them. Athletic things, mostly, Technological whizzes... and picking up girls."
"I'm sorry Mr. Finch I didn't quite catch that last bit. Say agai-?"
"Picking up girls! There I said it! Happy?"
"Why do you think those things are beyond you Mr. Finch?"
"...Look at me. I'm a nothing! A nobody! I can barely reach peoples knees, how could a girl ever appreciate being 'picked up' by a midget?"
"Well, have you ever tried?"
"Yeah, once. She picked me up. In a hug. *sigh* She was really nice about it though... that was about the only time."
"I see. and have you been interested in any other girls since then?"
"Lady, I'm short, but I'm still a guy."
" Point taken Mr. Finch. But why haven't you tried again?"
"I- I don't- there's no reason to! I'm just going to get shot down again!"
"But if you don't try, you'll never know Mr. Finch."
"So innocence is bliss, and I'd rather not know the answer. Sue me."
"No Mr. Finch I'd rather not do that."
"So, what? No more 'deep and penetrating' questions?"
"I'm afraid our hour is up Mr. Finch. If you'd like to schedule another appointment I'd be happy to continue our discussion then."
"Yeah... sure."
"Same time next week?"
"Whatever."
It was as he had almost reached the door that she gathered the courage to speak out.
"Mr. ... Albert!"
"Albert?"
"I'm sorry that I picked you up! I didn't know you felt so strongly about it... me."
"Picked-? Wait... Marcy? Marcy Finkelstein?"
"Yeah, people just would come into the office if I didn't have a 'Therapist' sounding name..."
"You... you look good Marcy. Geeze! I can't believe I didn't recognize you!"
"I've changed a lot Al, and I go good at hiding behind my notepad. I didn't even realize it was you until you told that story."
"It's better then me! So... how are you Marcy?"
"I'm good, Al, I'm good."
"That's good...Say, Marcy..."
"Yes?"
"Would you like to grab a cup of coffee with me?"
"Al, I'd love to but I can't."
"Oh. I suppose I should have seen that coming."
"No! Al, I can't unless you cancel your appointment with me next week."
"Oh. Oh! Right! I forgot about the whole, uh, 'no dating patient's' thing. I guess... I guess I'll see you next week."
"Albert!"
"Yeah?"
"In my professional opinion, your case is beyond me. Dr. Rothenstein, down the hall, is more qualified to handle it."
"Does this mean-?"
"I'll transfer your papers in the morning."
He smiled.
"Same time next week?"
"I'll see you then, Mr. Finch."