Page 97 of Taste of Addiction

I slip on the pair of cloth slippers and make my way out to find the worker, right where she said she would be waiting for me.

“Please follow me.”

I do as I am told, and she leads me into a room that has water fountains, dimmed lights, and a long cushioned table in the center. Despite lacking most of my wardrobe, I am still warm and cozy.

“You are going to remove your robe, lie down on your stomach on the table, and cover up with the sheet. Your therapist will be in soon,” she explains, closing the door to give me more privacy.

I place my robe and slippers on the chair in the corner and climb up onto the table. Nerves get the best of me as my trembling fingers grip the cloth sheet behind me and pull it up over my back. Three knocks at the door alert me of a new arrival.

“Come in.”

“Hi, Miss McFee. I will be taking care of you today.”

I wave and offer a mouthed “hello.”

“When you have gotten massages in the past, what did you like best or least?”

“Oh, um, I’ve never had one done professionally before.”

“Well, then, you came to the right place. I have been a massage therapist for the past twenty years. I specialize in post-recovery massage and prenatal massage. However, I particularly love hot stone massage.”

“Wow, that sounds very cool.”

“Do you have any injuries currently or ones from the past?”

“Yes. I was in a car accident several years ago,” I explain. “I suffered several injuries but was dismissed from my physical therapist.” I point out my problem areas and try my best to remain calm.

“If at any time during the session you feel pain, you let me know. Sometimes pain is expected during introductory sessions as your body adapts to the sensations. However, today is not meant for that. Today is to help you relax and feel cherished.”

“I really do appreciate it.”

“It is my pleasure.”

I sink into the cushioned table and wait for the therapist to get her supplies ready.

“During the session, feel free to close your eyes and fall asleep. I’ll be using the stones, heated essential oils, and some hot towels to help you to enjoy your experience. Again, if anything hurts, please let me know.”

She starts at my shoulders and works her way down my back, sliding down the sheet as she goes. I thought it would feel weird, but it doesn’t at all. She is professional and respectful. I melt into the table and my mind drifts as she works her magic on my tense muscles.

When my eyes are heavy, I close them and submit. My muscles melt, and I allow my body to go boneless, molding itself to the table.

I float in and out. I have moments of being present and submersed in the pleasure of having my entire body cared for, and I have moments where I don’t even feel like I am here. It is a euphoric feeling.

“Miss McFee?”

“Hmm?”

“This ends the massage portion of your package. Once you feel comfortable, please place your robe on and meet me in the hallway.”

I open my eyes, and they take a few seconds to adjust to the light. I must have dozed off. I feel limber and gushy. Like my arms and legs are made of the best kind of noodles. I could get used to this royal treatment.

I tie the strap of my robe around my waist and meet the therapist in the hall. She guides me down another hallway and into a room that is set up with polishes and foot baths.

“My coworker will help you with getting a manicure and pedicure. Hope to see you back here again soon. It was a pleasure meeting you.”

“Thank you so much.” I want to give her a tip because I am so impressed with her talent but my belongings are locked in the room.

After a minute, a middle-aged woman greets me. “Would you like a glass of sparkling cider while you look over the color choices? Mr. Hoffman instructed me to give you the full package. All the glitz and the glam.” Her excitement is contagious.

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