Soon {Zarry}

One Man

"Hello, Mr. Malik. My name is Doctor Harry Styles, and I'll be your pyschiatrist."

". . ."

"Um, well. . . how has your day been?"

". . ."

"Mr. Malik, are you even listening?"

"Yes."

"Then why do you not reply?"

"Because it's not like you care. Whether I respond or not, you still get paid for these unnecessary sessions."

"I'm afraid this isn't 'unnecessary'. I am here to diagnose your mental health, Mr. Malik. I can only do that if you cooperate."

"Well, let's cut your time short. I don't need some nosy doctor to tell me what I already know: I'm crazy."

"And do you know why?"

"Of course not. It doesn't matter either way. I'm in prison on a life sentence, whether I have answers or not doesn't matter."

"It's that attitude that made the jury find you guilty. It was your cockiness that made you immune to sympathy for the thoughts in your head. If you had been diagnosed, you would be in a mental health hospital getting treatment instead of rotting in prison."

"Oh. Is rotting in a nut house any better? Don't sigh at me. . . you know I'm right."

". . ."

"Oh, it seems you are the one that is silent now. . ."

". . ."

"Cat got your tongue?"

"No, I was counting to ten to control myself. It seems you lack control, hmm?"

"That's not very professional of you, doc. You shouldn't be so open about your feelings towards me. It makes it much easier to manipulate you."

"I find that opening up to someone in turn, makes them open up to you. So tell me, how has your day been?"

"If you really want to know, just ask the guard I punched in the face this morning."

"You shouldn't smile when you talk of hurting others."

"But I've been told I am a sociopath. Wreckless and impulsive, can't keep a job. . . I've got antisocial personality disorder. . . why shouldn't I smile? I hurt others, just as they've hurt me."

"I don't appreciate liars. You are a smart man, Mr. Malik. Sociopath doesn't begin to describe you."

"Doctor Styles, you flatter me so."

"I merely tell the truth. Now, we only have ten more minutes left. I have been told you enjoy piano music. Would you like to listen to some?"

". . . not today."

"Why are you frowning?"

"Can we end the session early?"

"I suppose, but-"

"Have a nice day, Doc."