literature

The Patient

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Literature Text

Eric sat alone in the sterile white room, humming a tune and tapping his foot in an attempt to pass the time. He looked around the small room for a clock. Finding none, he frowned. Hadn't there been a clock the last time he was here?

The door opened and a man walked in. He had black hair and a starched coat, the same pristine white as the walls. Eric looked up at him and smiled.

"Ah, Dr. Chang!" he said brightly.

"Mr. Eric Fleming. You look well. What seems to be the problem?"

"Well, I've been having trouble sleeping," said Eric, his grin fading. "I've been feeling alright physically.... I figure it might have to do with stress at work."

Dr. Chang made some quick notes on his clipboard and nodded. "Yes, stress is a common cause of insomnia. Remind me, what is it you do for a living?"

"Accounting. The work just keeps piling up. It seems like I never have enough time, y'know?"

The doctor nodded again. He crouched down to Eric's level and pulled out a stethoscope. "Breath in deep," he said.

After performing a few cursory examinations, Dr. Chang took a seat and began writing on the clipboard.

"So, how's everything look?" said Eric.

"No illnesses that I can tell. Tell me, Mr. Fleming, have you been getting much exercise?"

"Oh, not really," the patient replied. "Haven't had a lot of spare time, y'know, what with my job and all…."

"If you find yourself able, take some time to go jogging or do calisthenics. I think you'll find it very beneficial to both body and mind."

"You don't think I'll need to take any medication?"

"That won't be necessary," said Dr. Chang, standing again. "Just the exercise will do. Feel free to make another appointment if the insomnia persists. Oh, and one more thing…."

The doctor bent down and adjusted the straps on Eric's straightjacket.

"There you are," he said. "Nice and tight." He took his clipboard and headed toward the exit.

"See you later, Dr. Chang," said Eric with a smile.

"Goodbye, Mr. Fleming," said the doctor, unbolting the door and stepping out.

Eric sat alone again in the padded cell. He began humming, wondering what he would do with all his free time.
I've been meaning to do some flash fiction for a while, and I actually got around to it today. Just a little story with a twist ending. Tell me what you think.
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Comments15
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PossumFan's avatar
I love this, very nice ending.

+ fave