Their therapist suggests trying new things. They opt for role play. So far, so awkward. Too much discussion of scenarios and character motivations.
"Who are these people, really?" A asks. "Where have they been and where do they want to go?"
"No, we're overthinking this," B replies. "We need to pick something and run with it."
They scribble ideas on pieces of paper. B picks one and unfolds it. "Sexy nurse, eh? Very original."
A’s eye-roll: "You said we were overthinking it."
B’s suggestive eyebrow raise: "Well, I did say we needed to commit."
When they reconvene in the bedroom that evening, it's as two sexy nurses. Two very different and very attractive healthcare professionals, but with no hapless patient for them to seduce.
"What now?" A wonders. "What's the scenario? These two nurses want to get off, okay. But how do they get there?"
They ponder workplace drama. When they look up hospital organisational structures online, the results aren't particularly sexy. They discover the average nurse's pay in their region, and become incensed. They recall their real-life interactions with nurses over the years. Those who helped mend broken arms, guided through difficult labours, explained complicated things. They remember the kindness.
Galvanised, they compose letters to elected representatives, demanding better working conditions. They attend protests. Never cross picket lines. Make stern demands of election canvassers.
And they remember why they married each other.
Cathy de Buitleir is a writer based in Dublin, Ireland. Her short fiction appears in The Interpreter’s House and The Martello Journal. She holds an MA in Film and Television Studies. She works as a technical writer.
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