Chapter 1: Opening Image
Joshua stepped out of the elevator and merged into the cacophony of the bustling city below him. He tensed at the scent of food trucks lining the street, feeling the grime of the world creeping under his skin. He had never been a city person, but sacrifice was necessary. A six-figure salary in finance in the thriving metropolis meant the finest lobster dinners for his family—and that was a luxury he couldn't decline.
Joshua opened the steel security door to his concrete jungle of a building. The contemporary lobby smelled of machine oil and perspiration, and within he found solace.
He climbed the steps to his cozy one-bedroom loft, having shed his tailored kneesocks along the way, the silence encompassing him like a safety net. The contemporary furnishings nestled into the quiet loft space spoke of his fastidiousness. Lush greenery cascaded from various planters adorning the open floor plan, the living room blending seamlessly into the kitchen.
The air was filled with the earthy aroma of soil and the faint hint of jasmine from the flowers resting on his windowsill. Joshua breathed in deeply, the tension from the day beginning to dissipate. The massage table, shrouded in a plush, white cover, stood ready in the center of the room, a silent sentinel promising relief.
His phone rang, the screen flashing an unfamiliar number. He hesitated, then answered. "Hello?"
"Hey, Josh. It's Vanessa from the spa."
"Vanessa?" Joshua's eyes flicked to the massage table, the tension returning.