The Playboy Pastor E-Book

Andrea Furlow

• Herausgeber: WS
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 285

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

James had it all: a stellar career as a professional baseball player, a loving wife, Alice, and four wonderful sons. Struggling to fill the void left by the cheers of fans and the adrenaline of the game, James decides to pursue a new path beyond the diamond: the ministry. Little does he know, this decision will lead him on a journey far more unpredictable than any game he's ever played.

As James settles into his new role as a pastor in a vibrant community church, he finds himself drawn to Lily, a devoted church member whose infectious passion for helping others mirrors his own. Despite his best intentions and deep love for his family, James is captivated by Lily's charisma and warmth, leading to a bond that blurs the lines of friendship and crosses into dangerous territory.

Caught between his commitment to Alice and their children and his growing feelings for Lily, James wrestles with guilt and temptation. His once unshakable dedication to his family is tested as he navigates the complexities of desire, loyalty, and moral boundaries. Each decision he makes could jeopardize not only his marriage and family but also his position at the church and in the community.

"The Playboy Pastor'' is a compelling tale of love, faith, and moral reckoning that delves into the complexities of human desires and the transformative power of unforgiveness. This gripping novel is perfect for fans who love a good plot twist, spicy romance fiction, inspirational romance, and stories of personal growth and redemption.

Leseprobe

The Playboy Pastor

Part 1: A Secret Romance

written by: Andrea Furlow

edited by: Opal Fox

Table of Contents

The Introduction

The Decision

The Move to Charlotte

The One and Only Lily

The Impulse

The Secrets

The Start

The Planning

The Beginning of the End

The Competition

The Hard Choice

The Introduction

Life always came easy to James. His family was wealthy, he was tall, handsome, had a million dollar smile, and he’s had the same smooth, Barry White voice since he was 14-years-old. And, oh how the ladies loved James. He never liked to keep too many women in his pocket. He was looking for his equal. He wanted someone who could stimulate his mind and electrify his body. That’s what he found sexy. All through college, and even in his professional athletic career, James only dated a handful of women. Don’t get it wrong, he had his share of one night stands, but he wasn’t really seeking a wild sex life. He really only wanted one woman who could satisfy all his needs.

Thankfully dating wasn’t a priority for James. Being an adored professional athlete was. He was addicted to the flashing lights and the fans screaming his name. He got high off the rush of adrenaline he felt while he played baseball. He loved the salty taste of sweat beading down all the canals of his body. He craved the feeling that his lungs could give out at any minute while he pushed his muscles to their ultimate limits. His life was one big battery that recharged every time he stepped onto the field. That’s the way James liked it. That’s the way James needed it.

But, like most professional athletes, retirement was inevitable. There was always some young punk who thought he was too cool for school, wagging his dick around in the locker room and making grandpa jokes. It was time for James to retire, but he didn’t like the feeling of being forced out. Where would he get his adrenaline fix from? Who would be shouting his name and accosting him in the grocery store for an autograph? Sure, he’d still be famous, but not the level of fame he’d grown accustomed to.

The night before his retirement, James couldn’t sleep. He lay in his bed and tossed around in the sheets. His body felt hot, then cold, then hot again. So many thoughts were whirling around in his head. Especially the thought of what’s next. His mind hadn’t settled on a new venture outside of sports. Plus, he was feeling the weight of being forgotten bearing down on his heart. It became very obvious that he wasn’t going to get any sleep by the third time his body decided to turn into a sauna and burn him from the inside out. James decided to take a drive to wear down his mind and his body. His last game and retirement ceremony wasn’t scheduled until 7:00 p.m., so he didn’t need to sleep during the night. He could rest during the day and still kick ass on the field. He’d always been great like that.

James threw on a blue Nike sweatsuit, grabbed his car keys, and hopped into his gray Chevy Trailblazer. That’s the car he liked to drive when he wanted to be incognito. No one ever wondered who he was when was in that car. It was a regular, non-flashy, mind-your-own-business type of car, and James needed that right now.

He drove around for what seemed like hours. He passed the baseball stadium with his picture and an advertisement of his retirement on the side. James just kept going. He drove far into the night. The lines of street lights seemed to pass him in a haze as he got swept into a trance. It was a freeing experience. James had nothing to do, no one to answer to. No one to entertain. It was just him and the road. It wasn’t until the ping of the yellow gas light coming on in the car that James realized he wasn’t paying attention to where or how far he’d gone. James looked round for a gas station and saw a 7-Eleven up ahead. He didn’t really want to get out of his car, but the threat of not making it back home was enough motivation for him to stop. He pulled up to the pump and opened the door. The crisp taste of night air was sharp in his mouth as he yawned. He put one foot on the ground and realized he must have been driving for a while because his knee was stiff. He placed the other foot on the ground and stretched high in the air. His 6’2” frame, with arms stretched, towered over the car. He thought to himself, James, let’s get this gas and get out of here... And where is here? James looked around for familiar surroundings but couldn’t find any. He looked at the top of the building and saw the number 7704. He looked back at the street for a road sign. There was nothing. Confused, and starting to get a little sleepy, James walked around the car. As he walked, he patted his pockets. After the fourth or fifth pat, James realized he’d forgotten his wallet at home. He left the house without even considering if he had his driver’s license or credit cards.

James walked back around to the driver’s side door and opened it quickly. The second realization dawned on him that he’d left his cell phone at home too. James said to himself, Damn man, you’re 0 for 2 right now. James climbed back into the driver’s seat and closed the door. He gripped the steering wheel with both hands and rested his head on his hands in anguish. He had no gas, no money, no phone, and no idea where he was. He couldn’t get help even if he wanted to. Just then, James heard clink clink clink on his window. It sounded like keys tapping. James lifted his head from the wheel and looked to his left. There he saw the most beautiful, tall figure standing at his window wearing a killer little black dress and a trancing smile. James couldn’t hide his shock. His mouth dropped and his body didn’t move. It was obvious he liked what he saw, which made the woman blush. She motioned for him to roll down the window. James complied.

“Hey. James, right?” James looked at her for a second, but he couldn’t seem to get any words to come out of his mouth. She continued, “It looks like you need some help. Is everything ok?” James snapped himself out of the trance and finally closed his mouth. He felt his face flush. His mouth was open for so long it had actually become dry. He finally responded.

“Yes. I’m James. And you are?”

“Alice.”

“Alice. Alice. That’s a beautiful name.” James extended his hand for Alice to shake. Just then they heard a scream. Alice and James both jump with fright. It was the middle of the night and someone was screaming. On the other side of the parking lot, two young women in their late teens or early twenties were looking at James’ car, pointing, and screaming with excitement. They began to run over towards the car. James looked at Alice with a devilish grin and said, “This happens all the time. Excuse me.” He motioned for Alice to move back so he could open the door. James pulled on the handle, but the girls got to the car a lot faster than he expected. He didn’t want to open the door and hit them, so he let the handle go and sat back in his seat smiling. The girls were screaming inaudibly and jumping with excitement. James studied Alice’s face to see if she was impressed by the fanfare happening before her, but she was actually blushing again. It wasn’t until he looked at the girls’ faces that he realized that they were there for Alice and not him. James was puzzled. What was happening? Is it possible that this impressive woman is more famous than him? Finally, James asked, “Who are you?”

She smiled at him and said, “I’m Alice.” James returned her smile and examined her face. She enjoyed the attention she was getting. Although she didn’t anticipate anyone recognizing her at a 7-Eleven in the middle of the night, it was a welcomed surprise. The ladies finished taking their pictures and hugging Alice and ran back to their car across the lot.

James opened his door and got out of his car. He had to see Alice up close to know if the perfection he saw through the window was real or a facade. As he stepped closer, he noticed Alice was just an inch or two shorter than him with her heels on, which meant she really was much taller than the average woman. He looked at her delicately manicured toes that introduced her long, tan legs. She had clearly been exposed to the sun and it had kissed her skin to the point where the color now had a permanent glow. And, she was wearing that dress like it was painted on to cover just the legally required parts. Her makeup was light, and natural. She didn’t need to be caked up because she was naturally beautiful. Lastly, James loved how many teeth she used when she smiled. He thought about how easy it would be to know what she liked and what amused her by her smile. If he had to pick out a flaw, her hair was too short for his liking. He loved women with long hair. Not that her chin-length bob was unattractive, it was lovely, but just not his preference.

“Well, Ms. Alice. What is a beauty like yourself doing out this late?” He stepped closer to Alice but not too close as to alarm her. He wanted to get to a distance where she knew he was interested but far enough away to feel safe.

“I was just named to the USA Women’s Olympic Volleyball team. I was celebrating with my new teammates.” James nodded his head in approval.

“Wow, and a world famous athlete? What else can you do?” Alice chuckled.

“Fly a plane.” James’ jaw dropped in shock.

“No way!” James exclaimed. “Really?”

“No, not really. I’m just messin’ with you.” Alice stepped up to James and lightly pushed him in the breast plate. James stumbled backwards dramatically and clutched his chest.

“I’m suing you for assault before my last game. You must have a boyfriend on the opposite team.” Alice smirked at James knowing he was fishing for information.

“Nope, no man on my arm. I haven’t found a guy who can deal with my busy schedule or lack of privacy. Unless. . .” Alice cut off her words abruptly and pointed her finger at her chin in a thinking motion. “Well how does your girlfriend deal with all your fame?” James doubled over laughing. He found himself loving every minute of their interaction. Alice had a sense of humor which was sexier than her slim figure and collected persona.

“I see what you did there. I’m definitely single. But, maybe not for long.” James flashed Alice a sexy smile with a raised, inquisitive eyebrow.

“Slow down there, sir.” Alice put up hand to gesture a stop sign. “How about we start with dinner and see where it goes from there.” James nodded in agreement.

“Sure. How about this? My game should be over tomorrow at like 9:30 p.m. Maybe earlier with some good pitching. I can take a shower, do a little press, and be ready for a late dinner around 10. Would you like to come to the game and leave with me right after?” Alice thought for a moment and smiled with all her teeth. James knew a yes was about to follow that smile. He was learning her mannerisms already.

“That would be nice. But listen, dinner is on you. Looks like I’m about to pay a grip for your gas tonight.” Alice laughed. James had gotten so wrapped up in the conversation with Alice that he forgot he was stranded at a gas station far from home. He looked at his watch and realized it was truly time to get home and rest. The hard part was over. James had piqued Alice’s interest and she agreed to go out with him the next night. That was his accomplishment for the evening, so there was no need to draw out the night any further.

“You’re right.” James responded. “I’ll have to find a place worthy of my hero. Medieval Times?” Alice pushed passed James, hit him with a hard shoulder to shoulder, and walked over to the pump. She tapped her card on the reader, pushed a few buttons and returned her credit card to her clutch bag. She opened the gas cap of James’ car, inserted the gas nozzle, and set the hands-free latch. James thought she was going to come back to conclude the conversation, but she turned the opposite way.

“I’m positive you’ll think of something better.” Alice called to James over her shoulder as she walked to her car. He was impressed by her brand new black Audi. She got in the car and drove off. She disappeared just as quickly as she had appeared. James couldn’t believe he had met one of the most incredible women he’d ever seen. He knew she was going to be truly someone special to him. Just then, the gas pump clicked to signal it was full. James returned the pump and collected the receipt. He was starting to feel sleepy, which was a great sign, and so he climbed into his car and drove in what he believed to be the direction of home.

“Alice.” James whispered with a smile. “I could get used to that.”

******************************************************************************

The next afternoon, James woke up feeling refreshed. He had slept through the team’s morning workout after being out so late the past night. All he could think about was getting through the game to start his new civilian life, and that began with a late night dinner with Alice. He put his phone on the charger when he got home, but he forgot to turn it on. James powered up the phone and walked into the restroom to relieve himself. He could hear the phone dinging with messages as he washed his hands and returned to it. Most of the messages were from coaches and teammates, so he ignored them. The last message was from his public relations agent. It read Who is Alice? James opened the message with the cheesiest grin, but he couldn’t begin to reply to such a loaded question. Who is Alice? James thought for a second before his fingers subconsciously took over the conversation. Alice is the perfect stranger my soul didn’t know it needed to meet last night. I didn’t even catch her last name, but I know she’s going to be my wife. James waited for a second for a reply. Then, his phone dinged. Wow! I guess that’s a yes for putting her on your guest list for the game. I can’t wait to meet the future Mrs.

James dropped the phone on his bed and half skipped back into the bathroom to get dressed. He needed to hightail it to the stadium if he was going to warm up properly. One of the reasons he was retiring was his body’s fair warning that it was time. He’d come out lucky to never have more than an ankle sprain in his career, but his body was beginning to feel the strain from the stop and start motions of the game. James washed his face, brushed his teeth, and threw on a sweat suit. He grabbed a protein shake from the fridge and headed towards the garage. All his keys were by the garage door. He had a decision to make. If he wanted to impress any other woman, then he would take the Porsche. But this was Alice. She wouldn’t be impressed by a car, but rather she’d be impressed by his class. So, James grabbed the Range Rover keys and hit the button to open the garage. His phone notification went off one more time. Looking forward to tonight came from an unknown number. Alice. James thought as he pulled out and onto the main road.

James beamed all the way to the stadium. Not even realizing he didn’t respond to Alice’s text, he couldn’t stop thinking about how a chance encounter could change his whole perspective on his retirement day. The day became hazy. Sure, James changed into his uniform. Sure, James warmed up. Sure, James had the retirement game every baseball player dreamed of with a grand slam to win the closely scored game at the bottom of the ninth. Maybe it was a softball pitch to set him up for a successful sendoff, but nothing could shake the floating feeling under James’ feet. To date, it was the best 24 hours of his life.

Once the game was over, James rushed into the locker room to shower and change for the press conference. He was looking forward to one last post-game press frenzy. He put on his finest suit and styled his hair in a way he knew the cameras and Alice would love. It was going to be his last post-game in this locker room, so James took a moment to look around. All of the memories and friendships he had made in that room were coming to an end. Of course, he would come back the next day to collect his belongings and say goodbye to the team and staff, but this was going to be the last time he would be a part of the jubilation of a win with his team. It was a moment James savored as he inhaled deeply and physically felt the energy in the room.

James sat in his locker stall and checked his phone to see if he had gotten any messages from Alice during the game. He knew she was in the stands, and that was his subconscious motivation to play harder. He never spotted her during the game, but from the four messages from her, he knew she was cheering him on. The first message read I’m here. Good luck tonight. The second read Wow! That was amazing. The third read Ok, that was a turn on, adorned with a splash emoji. The last read Congratulations! What a spectacular win. I’m going to head down to the press room to wait for you. See you soon. That last message was just what he needed to cement that moment for the night. James was floating on a cloud. He could feel the butterflies floating in his stomach, and he knew it was time to receive his final hurrah. He had the heck of a game, so James walked into the press room with confidence knowing all eyes and cheers would be for him. To his surprise, he got nothing. The press was in fact in a frenzy, but it was all for Alice.

“Alice, Alice, they say this is Team USA’s best chance for a gold medal in women’s volleyball. Is this our Olympic year?”

“Alice, Alice, Alice. Over here.”

“Alice, what brings you here tonight? Who are you here to see?”

Alice finally realized James walked into the press room. She smiled at him apologetically and walked towards the back of the room. “The man of the hour is here.” As Alice motioned towards the tabletop podium, the reporters turned around to see that James had entered. They immediately turned their attention to him. James didn’t know how to feel. He wasn’t used to coming second to anyone. Alice was just as beautiful as she was the evening before. He loved that she showed up for his big day but felt conflicted about how she garnered just as much, if not more, attention than him on a day that was supposed to be all about him. James shook out the negative thoughts trying to intrude into his mind. It was his moment again, and that was all that mattered. Maybe there was a little fragility to his ego, but that wasn’t going to stop him from savoring this moment. It was his time, and Alice was there to witness him in his last moment of baseball glory. James felt invincible.

The Decision

It was an easy decision to marry Alice. James had finally met his equal. She matched him in every way. They had the same business mind, the same financial status, their conversations stimulated every part of him, she was smoking hot, and her sex drive rivaled a twenty-year-old frat boy. James couldn’t get enough of Alice. So, when it came time to lock her down, James knew what he had to do.

James was originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was born and raised in the Fox Point neighborhood, and his parents still maintained his childhood home there. Alice didn’t really have a home. She was an Army brat who moved around a lot growing up, so when James suggested they move to Milwaukee after retirement, Alice had no disagreements. She loved James and James adored her. She knew James wouldn’t do anything to hurt her, so she trusted this decision completely. They were happy to share their lives together in a place they could call home.

Two years after getting married, James and Alice welcomed twin sons. James affectionately, and ironically, called them Teeny and Tiny. For twins, they were big at birth, and since they were breast-fed babies, they plumped up even larger after a few months. Fatherhood had its challenges, but James was able to find his rhythm quickly. So quickly that two years later, James and Alice welcomed another set of twin sons. James affectionately called them Eyes and Ears. They were quiet children, but they watched and mimicked everything their older brothers were doing. Although Alice’s athletic body was able to bounce back quickly after having children, she didn’t want to have any more. She officially closed the baby factory and asked James to get a vasectomy. With their family complete, James and Alice enjoyed a quiet life in Fox Point for the next 10 years.

James and Alice were happily married, they’d managed to raise four polite, respectful, and strappingly handsome young sons. Alice loved being a boy mom. She enjoyed the constant adoration from her sons. Being the only woman in the house, she constantly had “fans” to rave over her. Any boy mom could tell you, that after the formative years are complete, a mother’s role turns into the best time of her life because she gets to truly enjoy her sons while dad’s role becomes to launch the boys into men. Alice’s role as a mother would never be over, but her time and hard work on the frontline had ceased and she could take a backseat in raising her boys while James took the wheel. She was exactly where she wanted to be.

On the other hand, it took James a while to figure out what he wanted to do with his life after playing baseball. He and Alice made excellent investments with their retirement monies, so there was no rush into an actual career. They were enjoying the retirement life, but James was starting to feel like something was missing. He couldn’t quite put his finger on the ever-growing void. Some days he’d sit back and watch as Alice rolled around on the floor with the boys. He’d watch her make funny faces at them and laugh so hard that the veins in her forehead would begin to protrude. Everyone seemed so happy. James was happy too, but he wasn’t the kind of happy that they all were. Something wasn’t quite right in his life. There were months that would go by that James couldn’t remember what he did or where he went on a given day. James felt like he was sinking into more than a rut, so he decided to see a therapist.

He didn’t want to alarm Alice, so James didn’t say where he was going on the day of his appointment. He just said he was heading out and he’d be back in time for dinner. Alice loved and trusted her husband, so she kindly kissed him goodbye as he walked out of the door. James slid into his sleek new, blue BMW and slowly pulled out of the driveway. As he was driving, James contemplated what he was going to say to this perfect stranger. He didn’t feel depressed. There was a lot of joy in his life. He didn’t feel anxious. He just felt like something was devoid from his perfect life. He wanted the therapist to confirm he was ok. Maybe even come up with a solution to what didn’t really need to be labeled as a problem.

The drive was only about 15 minutes to Dr. Michaels’ downtown Milwaukee office. James valeted his car out front and handed the girl a $50 tip. “Keep it close.” He said as he winked and grabbed the valet ticket out of her hand and continued to walk past her. He could tell the girl was looking at him with attraction and was impressed by the tip. James loved those looks. He was confident that he could still pull any lady he wanted to, but he didn’t want to. Alice was his perfect match. He just liked to know that he still had it. James walked into the glass building and headed straight to the elevator. The building’s lobby was bright, lustrous, and airy. It reminded James of the stadium lobby where he used to play. Suddenly and profoundly, it hit James. He missed the roaring fans and the gleaming, bright lights of the stadium. That’s what was causing such a lack in his life. James pushed the elevator button, but he wasn’t sure if he still wanted to go see Dr. Michaels. He’d figured out what was missing in his life, so did he really need to go see a therapist? What was this guy going to tell him now that he’d figured out what the so-called “problem” was? James turned to walk back towards the exit when the elevator door dinged. The doors began to open and he heard his name.

“James?” James turned around to see a tall and handsome man standing in the elevator. It was Dr. Michaels. He was an older man, seemingly in his late 50’s or early 60’s, but you could tell he was in great physical shape by the way his tailored gray suit fit him to a tee. His hair was perfectly cut and sculpted, and James was impressed by the way he pieced himself together. He spoke again, “James, I thought that was you. Where are you going?”

James thought for a second of something to say that would make the embarrassment less awkward, but he figured the truth would be the best in this situation. “I was having second thoughts about seeing a therapist. To be honest, I had an epiphany as I walked into the building, so I really don’t think I need to go up to your office.” Dr. Michaels raised his eyebrow.

“Oh really? An epiphany? Listen, why don’t you tell me about your epiphany in the elevator on the way upstairs. If you’re sure you don’t want to talk by the time we get to my office, then there’s no charge and you can just ride the elevator back down. No harm, no foul, and you’ll make it back before the free 30 minutes expires on your valet. Sound like a deal?” James nodded in agreement and both men got on the elevator.

“How did you know I was here?” James asked.

“I give the lobby receptionist a picture of all my clients. When he sees them arrive, he buzzes my personal receptionist. This way I can greet all my clients in the lobby. It’s a personal touch I like to provide. Plus, I work with many former athletes like yourself. It gives me a chance to run them down when they look like they’re about to change their minds about coming to see me.” James laughed.

“Do you get a lot of runners?”

Dr. Michaels chuckled to himself. “More than you know.” He then pressed the 30th floor button and the elevator doors closed. “So, tell me about this epiphany.” James took in a deep breath as he began.

“I have the perfect life. I have a beautiful wife, I have great kids, my home is one of the best in the neighborhood, my parents and siblings are very close, so we have a great village to support my family. I’ve just been feeling like something is missing. It wasn’t until I walked into your lobby, which reminded me of my old stadium, that I realized I missed playing ball. Now that I know what’s wrong, I can fix it. I really don’t need to talk it out. I’m sorry to have wasted your time.” Dr. Michaels listened intently as James told him about his so-called epiphany. He then responded.

“I think it’s great that you realize what was causing you to have an empty feeling. But, I’d still like for you to come to my office. You’ve recognized the what, but now you need to figure out the how. I’d like to work with you to figure that out. You see, I’m a former athlete myself.” James cut him off.

“I knew you looked familiar. You were one of my favorite football players growing up. Aw man! What an honor to meet you.” James reached out and shook the doctor’s hand vigorously. Dr. Michaels continued.

“Nice to meet you, too. To be honest, you were one of my favorite players as well. But I think I know what you’re going through. We have to figure out what happens after they turn off the stadium lights on our careers. The ‘what’s next?’ question becomes too much for some people to handle.”

“That’s true”

“I’m glad you agree. But it’s not just enough to agree. Not many people know what it’s like to be in our shoes. You’ll bounce an idea off of them and they’ll look at you like you have two heads. I believe my office can be a safe space for you. A place where you can tell me your ideas without judgment. What do you think?” James leaned back on the elevator rail while he thought. Just then the doors to the elevator opened on the 30th floor. Dr. Michaels got out of the elevator and turned around. He placed his hand on the elevator opening so it wouldn't close. James rubbed his chin in submission and got off the elevator too.

The 30th floor was surprisingly bright. The hallway was lined with green tinted windows. Although you couldn’t see through them, you could hear people talking within them. There was the smell of fresh coffee in the air. It felt as if there was business being conducted, but they were only in the hallway. Dr. Michaels’ office was at the very end of the corridor. James could see the brown door with The Office of Dr. Michaels written on a gold placard towards the top and centered. Dr. Michaels let James lead the way. It felt like Dr. Michaels was subconsciously letting James choose to walk through the doors of his office. Like it was an actual choice. Although there wasn’t a blue pill or a red pill to swallow, James did feel like he wanted to get to the truth of his existence after his professional sports career. James grabbed the gold, moon-shaped door handle and pulled it. He held the door open for Dr. Michaels to enter after he walked in.

Inside the door was the reception area. To the right, there was a long, black sofa. It looked uncomfortable. As if to say, you won’t be in this area for too long, so don’t get cozy. To the left, there was a glass receptionist desk. A slender young man with chestnut brown hair and blond highlights sat behind the desk wearing a headset. He had a donut in his right hand and a pencil in his left. He was talking into the headset. When he looked up and saw James and Dr. Michaels coming through the door, he quickly told whoever was on the phone he’d call them back, dropped the pencil and the donut, and clumsily stood to his feet. He nodded at Dr. Michaels and addressed James. “Good afternoon Mr.-” James held up his hand to say pause and interrupt.

“Just James is fine.” The receptionist nodded in response.

“Right. James. Would you like some coffee or a water?” James shook his head, mouthed the word no, and flashed a smile with gratitude. The receptionist continued, “Please let me know if you change your mind. Dr. Michaels, your usual is on your desk.” The receptionist sat back down. Dr. Michaels hurried past James to another large door. It wasn’t marked, but it was presumably Dr. Michaels’ actual office. This door had the same gold, moon-shaped handle. Dr. Michaels pulled the handle and opened the door for James. James was immediately impressed with the panoramic, round office. It was truly on the 30th floor with views of the entire downtown area on one side and the most pristine view of Lake Michigan on the other side. James mouthed the word wow.

“Doc, I’ve got to say. You must be doing some great work up here. This view says it all.” Dr. Michaels responded.