Queens Court

Chapter 2

Keira had a knack for knowing when someone wanted to say something and wasn't doing so. As she looked at her patient, Mr. Lee, she knew this was the case. Mr. Lee was your typical Caucasian male. At thirty-seven years old, he worked in corporate America, was good at his job, and made good money. He had been married for twelve years, but apparently there were some things wrong about the relationship that he didn't know how to disclose or deal with.

"This is the thing, Doc," he said then paused again. Hesitation rested in not only his tone, but his eyes.

"There is no judgment in this room, Mr. Lee," Keira said. "Just close your eyes and say it."

He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply, and blurted out, "My wife doesn't give me special attention anymore." Then he exhaled, as if he had been dying to get that off his chest.

From past experience, Keira was aware that there was more that would pour out: more problems, issues, and fears. "Continue," Keira said in a calm voice, preparing for the tidal wave of emotions from her client.

"She just doesn't seem to take an interest in doing it. At all! And I am always more than willing to do my part. She literally has to tell me to stop; that's how attentive and selfless I am when it comes to her. If I'm being honest, I can't remember the last time she took care of me that way."

Keira sat there in thought for a second. She wanted to make sure Mr. Lee was opening up the door for her to walk through. People came to therapists for many reasons, but to have a safe place to emotionally kunload was one of the main reasons. Listening was an art form, and Keira made it a point to know when to do so and when to speak.

The questioning desperation in her client's stare let her know that he was now ready for her input.

"See, first of all," Keira said, "I've never liked the term special attention. That is something that should come naturally and regularly in any healthy marriage, from both sides." No, Keira had never been married herself, but she'd studied this kind of thing. She'd been trained on how to treat patients dealing with this issue and many other problems. Not only had she been trained through books and lectures, but through real life experiences via other clients who had found themselves in similar circumstances. Whether they knew it or not, they had taught her a thing or two.

"Was it taking place consistently before you two got married and right after the wedding?" Keira asked.

"Yes, all the time. Three or four times a week. And now, nada." Mr. Lee slumped in his chair, looking dejected.

Keira knew that she not only had to give him some help, but some hope as well. "I won't lie; that's a tough one, Mr. Lee."

"You're telling me. I'm faithful! And I love my wife, but any good marriage is built on love, trust, and special attention!" Never mind the fact that Keira didn't like using the label "special attention." That's what he wanted from his wife, and by golly he was going to call it how he saw it—or felt it. Or perhaps didn't feel it.

"I agree, but there are a few components that you left out, like communication, friendship, passion, appreciation, and more. Wouldn't you agree?"

Mr. Lee nodded in agreement.

"Good, then we're on the same page. There's something I want you to do when you get home today. Now, you get there before your wife, correct?"

"Yes." Mr. Lee sat in anticipation of whatever it was the good doctor could suggest to help turn his marriage around in the "special attention" department.

"Okay. I need you to follow my instructions to the letter." Keira handed him a piece of paper and a pen.

Mr. Lee positioned himself to begin taking notes.