Lost

Lost

Sandy looked at the small man sitting on the branch. “You’re trying to trick me.”

“Why would you say that? I’m trying to help you!”

“No, I don’t think so,” the six-year-old replied, tilting her head.

Alex frowned, “You are a lost child. I am a grown-up; I’m trying to help you find your way back to your family. Why would I trick you?

“I don’t know. Why are you so small if you’re grown-up?”

“Some grown-ups are short.”

“Well, why are you sitting in a tree?”

“It’s comfortable. I like trees. The benches are not comfortable for short people, you must know that, you’re short.”

“Why are you wearing a green suit?”

“I can wear whatever I want. I’m a grown-up. I like green, I can wear green if I want.”

“Are you a pixie?”

“Of course not!” Alex sputtered, “Do I look like a puny little pixie? How many pixies have you ever seen? I don’t look anything like a pixie! I’m a leprechaun!”

“I thought leprechauns had rainbows or pots of gold or something.”

“Listen kid, you are lost. Do you want me to help you or not?”

“So, you’re not really a leprechaun are you. It’s OK. I’ve heard lots of grown-ups wear costumes sometimes. Do you work for a place where you have to dress like that?”

“I am a leprechaun!” he sputtered again, now turning a little red in the face.

“Sure, I believe you...” Sandy said, “Well I’ve gotta go...”

“I’ll prove it!” Alex said clenching his teeth. He waved his hand and a small box of gold coins appeared in front of Sandy.

Sandy picked them up, “Wow! I guess you are a leprechaun. Thanks!” as she turned to walk away, she added, “By the way, I’m not lost.”