"Feels weird not to have a Number."
They'd been working Numbers what felt like every waking minute for almost two weeks, but The Machine had thankfully been quiet for the past two days. Not that either would admit it, but both John and Harold needed the break.
Reese had practically dragged Harold from his computer, forcing physical activity upon him despite the smaller man's best efforts. Although Harold had protested that The Machine may give them another Number and he needed to be ready, he was enjoying the stroll through Central Park. It was a beautiful autumn afternoon and the park was full of all types of people- families, joggers, couples, etc.
"Yes, Mr. Reese, I must admit it is rather- OOF."
Reese's quick reflexes kicked in and immediately grabbed Finch's arm, keeping him from toppling over. From seemingly nowhere, a tiny form had emerged and plastered itself around Finch's leg.
A child.
"What the-"
The two men stared at the being as if it were extraterrestrial, completely bewildered as to where it had appeared from. Reese began looking around, trying in vain to find an adult who appeared to be looking for their unattended child.
Harold stared at the toddler.
"Mr. Reese…"
"I don't see the parent, Finch."
Harold began to not-so-subtly shift his leg in an attempt to get the child to free him.
"I can't- What do I do?"
"It's just a kid, say hi."
Finch cleared his throat.
"Um, hello."
Reese kneeled, "Hey there. Do you know where your parents are?"
The child smiled but didn't answer and clutched tighter to Finch's leg.
"She likes you, Harold," Reese said, laughing.
"That may be so, but can you please attempt to get it off of my person?"
"She's not an it, Harold, she's a she."
"Nevertheless," he said while shaking his leg, "she won't let go."
"She's just a kid, Finch. What do you think she's gonna do?"
"I don't know- I just- You're not helping," annoyance slipped into Finch's tone as he leaned down and attempted to pry the little girl's arms from around him. "My word, she's strong."
Reese, now standing back and taking the scene in, tried to hide his smirk.
"Harold, you look like you're feeling a little uncomfortable."
Finch shot him a look.
"Would you please stopping standing there giggling and help me?"
"Alright, alright," he knelt again. "Hey sweetie, my name is John. I need you to let go of my friend Harold's leg so we can find your parents. Okay? Can you do that? Can you let go?"
The small girl shook her head. She had to only be about two or three years old, John guessed.
Harold stood there awkwardly, cringing, looking like he was dying inside.
"Oh my goodness I am so sorry!"
Harold's savior, a frantic looking woman holding the hand of little boy rushed toward them.
"Sadie, no, we have to go. Let go of this poor man's leg. I am so sorry. I lost track of her. I am so sorry."
"Aw it's okay, no problem," Reese said with a winning smile. "My friend Harold here loves kids."
With no small effort the woman unlatched her daughter from Finch's leg, who immediately took multiple hurried steps backward away from the tiny clinging arms.
The two men watched as the threesome scurried off, the mother obviously overwhelmed with the two young children.
When they were out of earshot Reese glanced at Harold, who still looked shell shocked, and immediately began laughing heartily, struggling to stand upright. Harold narrowed his eyes at his employee and began trudging off at a surprisingly fast speed. When Reese collected himself enough to catch up he couldn't help but notice the deep blush on Harold's cheeks.
"I don't wish to talk about it, Mr. Reese."