A MAN, NEEDS was published in a print edition of Funicular Magazine.

Evelyn told James that her father had always said a man needed to experience two things in life: an old-fashioned shoeshine and a shave with a straight razor. When they passed a shoeshine stand in Grand Central Station, she said, “Get up there, James. It’s not like you’re going to get this opportunity back at home.” It was strange for him, though, sitting on that black vinyl throne, looking down at the balding head of a man who toiled away to make James’ boots shine like obsidian. Later that night, James still felt the need to discuss his discomfort as they lay side by side in the hotel bed. “I guess just don’t have it in me to be king,” he sighed.

Evelyn turned toward the wall. “It’s just about feeling worth it,” she said.

Author’s Note: Deep in my own domesticity, I was fascinated by the idea of a heterosexual couple taking on an additional wife to fulfill everyone’s needs. When that couple evolved into psychotherapists with their own issues to work out, the situation became darkly humorous, complex, and fun to write.