the contract.
Claudia’s face contorts in what I can only assume is her version of a smile.
“Will I get a copy of these documents?”
“You can ask Mr. McNally about that.”
That seems a bit odd until I realize that I didn’t see a photocopy machine anywhere.
She reaches into her desk and pulls out a small card which she slides across the desk. “This is an account set up for your arrangement. It’s our version of PayPal. Memorize the account number and log-in information then destroy the card. As soon as Mr. McNally places money into the account it’s yours to keep. He will no longer have access to it. And you’re free to leave it there or transfer it into another account of your choice.
“He’s already placed your first payment into the account. Quite generous, I might add, but I’m sure he’ll expect you to be equally generous in return. He’s anticipating an exclusive arrangement. That means no other men while you’re under contract.” She looks up at me. “And just so we’re clear, the exclusivity does not extend to him.”
I immediately think about my husband. It sounds like his idea of exclusivity too. I just didn’t know it. I remained faithful while he was with as many co-eds as he had time to screw.
I remind myself that this arrangement is a financial and not an emotional one. I’ll be exchanging access to my body for money. That doesn’t mean I have to give him access to my mind or heart.
“I assume you use birth control.”
When I shake my head she looks puzzled. This isn’t something I like to talk about, but I can tell by the disgusted expression on her face that it’s going to be necessary to discuss.
“We like to pride ourselves on providing a safe environment for our clients. One in which unwanted pregnancy is never an issue.”
“I have some medical issues.” I explain. “I can’t use oral birth control methods. But I’m not able to have children either.”
Her gaze narrows as she seems to consider what I’ve just shared.
“I’ve been sexually active for fifteen years,” I tell her. “I’ve never been pregnant and I’ve never been on the pill.”
“We normally require all of our girls to use birth control. Provide documentation from your personal physician to our staff physician so he can approve an exemption. We’ll also need to provide Mr. McNally with documentation that you’re disease free.”
She slides another card across the table. “This is the address for our staff physician. He’s extremely discreet. All of your test results will come directly to me and I’ll make sure they get to Mr. McNally. I’ve already scheduled an appointment for you in one hour. Mr. McNally is quite anxious to meet you and begin your arrangement.”
When she stares at me it takes me a moment to realize I’ve been dismissed. Rising from the chair I feel a little dizzy. I’m actually going through with his. I’m actually going to have sex with a man I don’t know in exchange for money. I worked so hard most of my adult life to make sure I could use my mind and intellect to earn a living. Now I’m probably going to make just as much selling my body as I do using my brain as a college professor.
***
“Y ou’re more mature than most of the women Claudia refers to our office.” Dr. Wilson has thick hair and his forehead has permanent worry lines. If I had to guess I’d say he was in his mid-fifties.
“And by mature you mean old.”
He doesn’t reply. Not even a change of expression. He seems to be all business.
Physicians have always made me nervous. Even when I was a kid I’d beg my mother not to make me go for my yearly check-ups. Their offices have always felt like cold and sterile places. Dr. Wilson’s office is no exception.
I pull the ridiculously small paper hospital gown closer in a futile attempt to feel warmer.
“Claudia mentioned that you’re unable to conceive.” He stares at me expectantly.
“I—um—have a congenital uterine