Fundamental Characteristic

Daniel Pierce was unhappy.

Normally he considered himself a content person. Living with paranoid schizophrenia was a bit of a downer, sure, but he dealt with it. Having commitment issues wasn't too fun either, but overall he felt as if his life wasn't too bad.

He had a good job, a loyal best friend (although she wasn't real), and people in his life that gave him puzzles. It was a rather nice arrangement and pleased him greatly.

But as he stood there and watched Kate Moretti walk away with Michael Hathaway (of all people, she could do better), all he felt was a solid punch of disappointment in his stomach.

He was angry with himself. He could get her to stay with him if he knew how. But he didn't. At least, not really. That's why no one ever wanted to be alone in a room with him.

He looked down at his shoes and then back up at her following after Hathaway. She was only a few feet away. He could still call her back if he wanted.

In fact, he opened his mouth to say her name. One word, four letters. Kate. Kate, Kate, Kate. It wasn't hard.

Except it was.

He closed his mouth and turned away. Perhaps Hathaway would be better for her. He was incompetent, but at least his head was screwed on straight. He didn't scream at people that weren't there or constantly check his house for hidden cameras.

But Daniel still thought he had a relatively good life, even with all of his issues. He was happy enough. He got to help the FBI with cases, be around Kate, and teach college students about his passion. It didn't matter that he was different.

Or did it?

As he looked at Kate, he suddenly felt as if he'd trade his job, his best friend, and his puzzles for a normal life.

Because he couldn't picture himself with her otherwise.

The End