Page 4 of More Than a Fling

“It was bargain city… I mean who could resist. The sale was fabulous, darling

“Let’s see what you bought,” Zoey said. Now everyone’s interest was piqued including the clients’ as he began to unpack his latest acquisitions.

“This is divine.” he said pulling out a diamond mirror ball lamp, attached to a silver chain. Everyone agreed and made noises of appreciation for his choice.

“Wait until you see this lit up. I’m going to have William hang it up over my station this weekend,” he said referring to his partner of fifteen years.

“Hey, if he’s going to be here anyway do you think he could fix my shelf? It’s becoming a liability,” Zoey said.

“I’m sure he would be happy to,” James said.

There was a flurry of activity as Rachel’s mom arrived to retrieve the kids and Annie’s client showed up all at the same time. The children squawked at having to leave such an exciting environment, but grandma had been prepared, and her bribe of ice cream cones had done the trick as they quickly abandoned their protest and happily exited... on to their next adventure.

Annie’s client consulted with her about different haircuts and styles. After some discussion on what cut would best suit her features, Annie wielded the scissors with confidence and began to clip away.

“You know I’ve been thinking about chopping my own hair off,” Annie shared, only to be met by a cacophony of protests from everyone in the salon.

“Nooooo! You have the most gorgeous hair of anyone I have ever met,” Zoey said, truly aghast at the suggestion.

“I won’t let you,” June said.

“Why would you tamper with perfection?” James said.

“I guess I’ll have to go elsewhere or do it myself when the time comes, since I obviously have no support from any of you.”

“You got that right.” Zoey said.

“It all depends…you would have to convince me and find the perfect cut. Of course, you would be gorgeous even if we shaved your entire head,” James said.

“There is hope then. I knew I could count on you J.J.,” she said using the endearment.

“Oh, she pulled the J.J. card out. I guess we know who is sucking up to the boss and it appears to be working,” Zoey said.

Annie smiled and winked at her customer, who enjoyed the easy banter amongst friends. It was a good day.

“Why don’t you let me shape and tint your brows today,” Annie suggested.

“Sure,” her client agreed.

“I also think we should go a little blonder with your hair this time since it’s almost summer,” Annie recommended. She stepped back to get a different perspective of her handiwork with the scissors, concentrating intently on her subject.

“I was thinking the same thing,” she said.

James walked over to the two of them, studied Annie’s client and offered his opinion, “If it were me darling, I would go short, as in pixie. With your beautiful heart-shaped face and huge eyes, it will frame your face beautifully.”

“Oh my God. That thought is terrifying,” her client said.

“You know I think he is right…it would look great on you,” Annie said encouragingly.

Zoey and June both chimed in their agreement.

“So, we now have a consensus… that is, if you are on board,” Annie said. “Super short with bangs, razor cut edges, platinum blond, dark brows, what do you think?” she said now excited at the prospect of creating a whole new look for her client.

“Why not live dangerously,” she said bravely.

“Yay. I think you will love it,” Annie said.

“It will be absolutely divine darling,” James concurred.