(The woman I modeled Marcie after has always been a supportive person to me since me met. This story reflects the feeling I get sometimes just being her friend. The fact is I am fortunate to have her in my life. She hears this often, so this isn't news to her at all.)
One of the things that I get self-conscious about is my looks. I have been doing more as of late to get back to walking more regularly and eating better because my wife is one of the most motivating fitness coaches in my mind. It helps that she is always trying to stay in shape. It's not that she needs to. After all, she is gorgeous as anyone who has read at least three of my stories about her can attest to. Still, there are times I feel like I am not enough.
I went with her to the same walking trail that I messed my leg up on and was doing my best to keep up with her again. This time, she was slowing down enough to make sure I could stay with her. When we headed towards the curve where that tree branch was that tripped me, she made sure to look ahead for any obstacles before she kept telling me in my ear how good I was doing and how I had this. When the walk finished, she looked me in my eyes.
"Are you okay, Leo?" she asked me.
I turned away from her before speaking.
"No. This fitness thing drives me crazy."
"Why?"
"Because you deserve someone in better shape."