Chapter 1

As my print deadline loomed, I found myself sitting in my spacious office, head in my hands, stressed beyond belief. As the Editor-in-Chief of a modestly-circulated news magazine in New York City, I have learned that stress simply comes along with the job. With more and more people getting their news from the internet, the success of my magazine is consistently hanging in the balance. Fortunately, through hard work and long hours, my magazine has been able to generate a loyal readership over the years.

“Hey, boss lady!” my assistant Trish announced as she came in through my open door. When I failed to respond, she closed the door softly behind her and sat down in a large comfortable armchair on the opposite side of my desk. “You OK?”

I sat up slowly and removed my hands from my forehead. “Do I look OK?” I replied with a smirk. Trish and I have a very solid work, and personal, relationship. I trust her with my life. We have hooked up a few times, each time being the result of an evening of heavy drinking. She literally knows everything there is to know about me.

“Well, truth be told, you look like shit. Normally, I would just let you have some time to get over it, but I’m really starting to worry about you.” The look on Trish’s face represented genuine concern. Unfortunately, I didn’t think I could provide her with the reassurance that she wanted.

“I am completely overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, etcetera, etcetera, blah, blah, blah. But don’t worry, you know I’ll eventually get over it.” I sensed that I wasn’t being entirely convincing. “Really, I’ll be fine.”

Trish was silent for a couple of moments before she spoke again. “I came in here because I have something exciting that I want to share with you. I see how stressed you’ve been lately, and I think I may have found something, someone, who can help.” I waited patiently for her to continue. “I spent some time with a young lady last week, a very talented young lady. She is highly skilled in helping to relieve stress. I truly believe that you will benefit from her services.”

I stared at Trish questioningly. “Do you think I should meet with her?”

“Absolutely! As soon as possible! I think you will really like her.” Trish’s excitement was becoming contagious.

“OK, I trust you. Go ahead and set up a meeting.”

“Oh, I already have. Here’s your key to a room at the hotel. You’re set up to meet with her there at 7:00 tonight.” Our office building is next to a large hotel. Over the years, we have come to refer to it as “the hotel”. They offer discounted rates to all of our employees because we often stay there when we are trying to meet deadlines and don’t want to waste time travelling to our homes. “I am so excited for you! I’m looking forward to seeing a new boss lady tomorrow morning!”

I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from tonight’s meeting, but I was beginning to feel just a little bit less anxious.