Jennifer loves her busy and exciting life as an executive manager in the cosmetics industry. Single and in her early 40s, she was a self-made independent woman and liked it that way. Wary of commitment and a relationship threatening her convenient and glamourous lifestyle, she sought Doctor Love's help for the one intimate void in her personal life.
I just loved reading each and every draft. You're both wickedly good. Jennifer DePrue.
*
The view of the city skyline from the apartment was even more impressive now. It was mine, having paid off the mortgage last month. I'd worked hard since joining Desire Cosmetics over ten years ago. After modelling for them through an agency, I commenced as a sale representative and progressed to being their national sales and marketing manager for the last two years. I left the office early to pack my bags for tomorrow's flight to New York.
I love everything about my work. It's exciting and glamorous working in the beauty and fashion industry. You get to travel and meet so many fascinating people. We're launching a new perfume for the North American market and I was looking forward to a week in the States. My work is a big part of my life.
The apartment is on the edge of the city centre and only a leisurely walk to the office. It's so convenient to the essentials of life, only minutes to Queens Parade with its coffee shops, restaurants and boutique shopping. The large park opposite has lovely trails that wind through manicured flower beds, wide sweeping lawns and large trees. I walk to most places and an evening run through the beautiful park helps me unwind after a busy day. A 24-hour gym is on the ground floor of the apartments. Keeping fit and healthy is my other passion.
In my early 40's, I'm proud that I could still be modelling. It helps if you have an attractive figure in my line of work. I considered myself pretty happy and contented with life as I contemplated my trip and gazed at the view, savouring my achievements.
There have been compromises with my choice of an unattached lifestyle. I'm popular but only have several close friends. There's no room in my busy lifestyle for a serious relationship. It's just wouldn't be convenient. I've chosen a career rather than personal commitment and the emotional attachment that comes with a partner or even a lover. The lack of intimacy has been difficult at times. One-night stands aren't my thing. I'm happy being on my own but a girl does need a little bit of fun.
A little over a year ago I felt the situation was starting to affect me personally and professionally. I'm attending a local medical centre for women and being treated by Doctor Love. His counselling and therapy have been wonderful, helping me cope with the intimate void in my life. The Practice has become a convenient arrangement. A short brisk walk from the apartment, it's on Park Crescent on the other side of the park and fits in nicely with my fitness regime. I was looking forward to this afternoon's appointment.
After checking my emails and deciding there wasn't anything that needed my urgent attention, I put on a hooded training jacket over a sports top. It was the first really cold day of the season and I already had leggings under my shorts. I grabbed my backpack I'd packed earlier and left the apartment.
The gym was busy as usual and I recognised some of the regulars as I walked past, building up to a steady pace. Occasionally a new member would try some gym flirting or even show a little more interest. I had my own inimical way of letting them know what I thought of them, amusing the regulars who knew me better. I do find it flattering all the same. I felt a little stiff after a longer run than normal and thought the walk would loosen things up. I soon developed a warm glow as I battled a cool gusty wind.
The Practice is one of the many old double-story terraces that line Park Crescent. Developers couldn't possibly knock any down to put up an apartment like mine in the area. It doesn't look much different to any of the other expensive historic homes the area is famous for. It's quite a contrast to the modern and contemporary design of the apartment but I liked the old-world charm of the building. It's a lovely setting for the Practice's services and important in its success.
Being in marketing, I could appreciate how the Practice appeals to women. It isn't like a medical clinic, both in appearance, location and the services. It's more like a home with period classical décor and furniture. The grandeur and opulence throughout the building is obvious and spectacular. There is a sense of privacy and intimacy within a calm and tranquil setting. Women could relax and seek treatment as a Guest, as they are known, not as a patient.
The exclusive club feel of the Practice appeals to some. Others appreciated the individual attention in a comfortable and less intrusive setting. A soothing ambience welcomes Guests and provides a serene and intimate atmosphere with its relaxing music, soft lighting, and scent of fresh-cut flowers or potpourri. All of these things appealed to me and Doctor Love conveniently satisfied my needs.
I slowed to a gentle walk as I approached the Practice and did some stretching before ringing the bell on the large stained-glass door. 'Hello Jennifer, Maddisyn greeted me with her lovely smile that you couldn't help but return. How was the walk?'
'Great but it's a little cool this afternoon,' I replied taking off my backpack in the entry hall.
'I've got the fire going,' she said accompanying me into the Sitting Room.
I considered Maddisyn, the Practice Manager, as one of my friends although we only saw each other during my appointments. I've got to know her well over the last six months. Maddisyn made a great first impression on those she met. She's a tall and attractive brunette in her mid-20's with an athletic build and always stylishly dressed. Maddisyn made it her business to know all the Guests well and make their visit enjoyable.
The marketing strategy was obvious to me and comforting for the Guests. Maddisyn spoke in a soft and gentle tone and has a spiritual nature about her. She had previously worked in the spa and health industry which were useful skills she employed at the Practice. I suspect not many Guest would fully realise the importance of Maddisyn in the Practices' success.
An open fire was glowing in the white marble fireplace that is a feature of the Sitting Room with an ornate mirror above and flanked by matching couches. Guests often sat and enjoyed a drink while waiting for their appointment with Doctor Love. Period side tables with lamps gives the room character and a stylish pendant dangled from a magnificent ceiling rosette. It felt a comfortable and welcoming room.
I noticed soft music playing in the background and recognised the song. It was
Best of my Love
by the Eagles. 'Is that one of my songs playing?' I inquired, giving Maddisyn a surprised look.
My reaction brought a smile to her pretty face. 'I finished putting the mix together for you.'
'Thank you, Maddisyn. I have something for you,' I smiled taking a small box out of my backpack.
Her bright brown eyes widened. 'What is it?' She asked, looking pleased.
'We're launching a new fragrance in the States in a couple of days and I thought you may like some,' I explained.
'Thank you, you're so kind, she replied. What's it called?'
'Wicked, but you can't tell anyone until after the launch.'
'It's our secret, she whispered with a broad smile. Would you like anything before you see Doctor Love?'
'I'd love one of your massages later but can I have some warm tea by the fire?' I replied taking a seat on one of the couches.
