Despite his demands to be treated as an equal to everyone, Olimar's height was hard to ignore. Simple, everyday tasks (all of which he insisted on doing himself) were a challenge for him. Even now, as he toddled down the path with Captain Falcon, hand-in-hand, he struggled to keep his balance. He had to stretch his arm up way too far just to reach, so he'd often get tired and resort to practically dangling off of Falcon's pointer finger (his hand was far too small to hold hands properly). Falcon felt bad watching him stumble around like that, but he knew if he suggested an alternative, Olimar would refuse.
The walk from the tennis courts back to the mansion was taking longer than it should have. Olimar tripped and fell, and finally, Falcon had enough. Before the little Hocotatian could protest, he found himself lifted up onto the racer's shoulders. Without a word, Falcon took both Olimar's hands in his, to steady him and show affection at once, and continued towards the house.
Maybe his dignity was taking a blow, but Olimar couldn't find it in himself to object right then.