It started with a simple phone call.
'I'd like to book a massage,' he said plainly. 'It's for my wife, Helen.'
'No problem,' I replied and went through the usual booking process, got all their details and checked the calendar.
'So that's booked for Friday at 12, Martin. I'll be there a few minutes beforehand so I can unload my massage couch and get set up. I'd recommend Helen try to have a stress-free morning so that she can get the most from the massage. You'd be welcome to stay with us throughout.'
There was a pause.
'I won't actually be there myself,' he said hesitantly. 'Work commitments. Is that OK?'
'Of course. As long as she's comfortable, it's not an issue for me.' I was sensing some hesitation so I continued. 'Is there a problem?'
'It's only that's she's never had anything like this before. It's a treat I'm getting for her. I want her to, you know, enjoy herself.'
I could see where this was going. It wasn't the first time I'd had awkward conversations like this.
'I may be be misunderstanding here but are you saying that she may want more than just a massage?'
He perked up a bit now that we were on the same page.
'Well, that's up to her of course. Do you, erm, offer, erm, extras?'
'It's OK Martin,' I chuckled. 'You don't have to be shy. I get asked about happy endings quite a lot, although it's usually the lady on the couch, rather than her husband! I'll be honest with you, it's not something I usually do, and it would only ever happen if she asked me outright to give her a more sensual massage. I assume you'd be OK with that if she does?'
'As long as it's just hands. Nothing else.'
'Hands are all I'm offering,' I laughed. 'But as I said, only if she asks. Can I just point out that you are only paying for a massage. Anything else that happens would be strictly outside of that and between consenting adults.'
'Got it!' He chirped. 'I hope it goes well.' And with that we finalised the booking and hung up.
I should point out that in my line of work, the issues of sexual contact, sensual massage and 'happy endings' are a real minefield. 9 out of 10 of my sessions are just regular massage, perfectly above board, professional and conducted with propriety. Most of my clients are 40+, a mix of homemakers and career women. Sometimes a massage is their way of de-stressing while the kids are at school or after a tough week in the office. For others it's part of their regular 'me-time' - a little pampering and self-care.
But as a male masseur, I've always been intrigued to know why women are willing to book me. Is it simply that I offer a firm, relaxing experience that might be less comfortable with a female therapist? Or do these ladies get a thrill from being naked (albeit under a sheet) and being touched, stroked and kneaded by strong, masculine hands? The truth is I don't ask and rarely know. But there are a few 'special cases' who are looking for some sexy time. And if I like them, I'm usually happy to oblige.
***
I rolled up at Martin and Helen's just before 12 as agreed. A modest detached suburban house. Helen turned out to be quite delightful. I suppose I'd describe her as an average sort of lady, around 5'7", short mousey-brown hair, pretty eyes. She grimaced nervously she ushered me in, and I dragged my couch through into the living room.
'I'm terribly nervous,' she muttered. 'Martin insisted, but I'm really not sure.' She certainly looked tense.
'How about a cup of tea first?' I suggested. It would give us time to have a chat and for her to get comfortable. She visibly relaxed at the suggestion and trotted off to the kitchen.
I set up my gear and put on some music, then we sat on the sofa. Helen gripped her mug tightly as we spoke.
'Firstly, let me assure you that if you decide this isn't for you, I'm happy to pack up and leave. It sounds like this was more your husband's idea than yours?'
She nodded. 'He's been going on about it for a while,' she said meekly. 'Thinks I need to relax more and try new experiences. I don't want to offend you, but I don't really think I need a massage.'
'There's nothing you can say that would offend me,' I grinned. 'One of my house rules is that the massage room is like 'Fight Club'. What is said or done here stays in the room! You are free to be candid and be yourself. Think of it like doctor-patient confidentiality.'
She giggled and I could see she was relaxing now.
'It's nice to see you smile,' I purred, perhaps a little too provocatively under the circumstances. For the first time since she opened the door she actually looked me in the eye and grinned. I guess she made a decision.
'Let's do it,' she said firmly.
I left the room so that she could undress and hop on the couch under a sheet. It was obvious that this lovely creature wasn't going where her husband wanted her to go. But that was fine with me. A simple, straightforward massage will help her relax, I thought. It felt like she needed it.
It's funny how things don't always go the way you think...
We chatted while I worked on Helen's back and shoulders. She was 37, married for almost ten years, part time job, no kids although they'd been trying. I let her talk and it seemed to calm her nerves. I guess she was relaxing more because the talk tailed off and she began to breathe more deeply.
'This is actually very nice,' she murmured, her face buried in the couch. 'Sorry I doubted you.'
'There's absolutely no need to apologise,' I replied. 'I'm glad you're enjoying it. I think that's what Martin wanted.'
'He's been very enthusiastic about it,' she said. 'Maybe he's right. I should try new experiences.'
I smirked to myself as I worked down her arms. I imagined she would be shocked if she found out what her husband had suggested!
'I have to tell you something,' she murmured, almost a whisper. 'You're only the second man I've ever been naked with.'
'Well that definitely counts as trying something knew!' I chirped and we giggled. 'Your husband said he wanted you to enjoy yourself.'
'Did he indeed!' She laughed. It went quiet for a minute and then she spoke again.
'What exactly did Martin say when he booked this?'
Oops, this might be awkward. I paused, wondering how to answer without getting him into trouble or spoiling the atmosphere. I guess I paused just a little too long.
'Didn't you say we'd be candid?' She said firmly. 'Fight Club and all that?' Well, not exactly. I'd said SHE could be candid! But I was caught now so I thought fast.
'Er. He mentioned the possibility of a happy ending for you.' There was no way I was going into any more detail than that.