Most days, Smukler’s bookstore is a quiet, peaceful, contemplative place to be. Then, just yesterday, THE REAL STORY, started complaining.
“I’m lonely,” he whined.
“What?”
“Are you deaf? I’m lonely. There’s no one here to talk to. You’re a psychiatrist, right?”
“Right.”
“So you can understand what I’m saying.”
“True… But sometimes, being an only child has its advantages. No brother or sister to compete with. You get all the attention. Who’s to say that when there’s another book sitting next to you, that you’ll be happier? Maybe you’ll feel jealous?”
“Trust me. I won’t. And don’t give me all that sibling rivalry crap! It gets old listening to Joe be so gaga over Lara. And he’s so stubborn… If it wasn’t for her he’d be a goner.”
“That’s true.”
“I want to meet some new characters.”
I nodded.
“I heard you thinking out loud. Aren’t you having another baby?”
“I am.”
“When can I meet him?”
“Maybe a month or so.”
“Hmm. That’s not so bad. Is he interesting?”
“He’ll blow you away. But, he’s in a lot of danger.”
“Danger. I’m used to that. Maybe I can help?”
“You already have, Buddy. You’ll make a good friend for NINE NORTH to have.”
I poured myself a fresh cup of coffee, took a deep breath, and settled into my chair.
Thanks so much for reading.
Feel free to click away and buy THE REAL STORY, eBook or Paperback.
Inside The Mind of a Psychiatrist 