wozziewoo
It’s time to check in with our favorite cheerleaders again. It’s the end of the school year. We say good bye to a couple of Seniors. Some take off for a tension filled summer, others are in a much better & happier position.
If you need a refresher, here’s the link to the previous outing:
The story continues:
CATCHING UP
There were three weeks left in the semester. The barbershop had become a huge success. They were at the point where there was some regret about not having a third chair in the main room. The entire team tried to do their part. It was almost impossible to see Heather without an appointment, and even the walk-ins for the main room might have to wait, especially during peak times.
Since the majority of the cheer team now favorably sported bald heads and the rest had buzzes and short styles (except Madison), they all helped each other during their off time. Even Jenny eventually came around on her crazy sister and her bald head. While she continued to grow her hair back into her favored bowl cut, she appeased Jessie and helped to keep her head free of hair. Jessie, in turn, thoroughly enjoyed shaving her boyfriend’s face and head. Tim liked the intimacy he and Jessie had, but it was a hard adjustment to look so different from his twin brother, Tate.
Anna maintained her signature platinum blonde #1 buzzcut with the help of Janie. Janie favored her bald head, but she was indecisive and liked options. So, she would often go a few days between shaves but rarely went longer than that in between shaves.
Doug finally got his date with Anna, and they really hit it off. It ended with a long passionate kiss and now Anna had no issue calling him her boyfriend. They continued to go out at least twice a week. Once on their own, once as a double date with Scott and Janie.
Melissa and Kathy became a dedicated partnership. Melissa never thought she would enjoy her shave unless Heather did it. That was until Kathy started to take care of her. She would always be indebted to Heather. Without Heather, Melissa wasn’t sure if she’d be as dedicated to the bald look as she was. But with Kathy she found a partner who became as dedicated and obsessed as she was.
Kathy had truly changed. What started off as a horrible outcome to a lost bet, now became her favorite thing to do. When she first offered to do the shaves for Melissa, it was to ease some of the burden off Heather and keep Melissa happy. She reluctantly agreed to keep her own head shaved as long as Melissa was the one to do it. That quickly changed. Kathy was into it. She relished the experience. Not only was it something she wanted and desired, but she would also seek out Melissa just as often, if not more than Melissa sought her.
Shandra and Tabitha had grown their hair since the competition ended. Their hair wasn’t long, those days were behind them, but they weren’t bald either. Shandra had settled into a #3 buzzcut. Her hair had started to get a bit longer but found she just couldn’t tolerate it anymore. She had considered going a bit shorter but found this to be the ideal length for her. Shandra had always been the ideal teammate. She was strong and dedicated and always showed team spirit. Her attitude wasn’t always great, and she didn’t always get along with all her teammates, but she always prioritized cheer above all else. Until it was over. Once the competition ended, so did her time with the team. She was checked out and, in her mind, already moved on. She focused on graduation and her post college life.
Tabitha, on the other hand, only got more into the team. Without a lot of cheer activity, she dedicated herself to being the best teammate possible. She made herself available to any teammate for anything they needed help with. She also spent a lot of time focused on herself and self-improvement. Now an avid runner, a surprise thanks to Heather, she continued to work on her strength, flexibility and overall athleticism in an effort to be a better cheerleader. After she dealt with a wild, frizzy, wild lion’s mane of excessively curly hair her entire life she was thrilled to finally be rid of it. The day it was all chopped off was one of the best of her life. She was only too happy to join the rest of the team for their fundraising shave. While she knew she never wanted to deal with her long curls again, if she kept it short and tidy, it seemed doable. She kept the back and side short, no more than a #1 or #2, but she let the top grow. Long enough to show off the bird’s nest of curls but not so long that it became unruly.
Jazmine loved her micro box braids. They were the one thing she held onto through all of her moves. But she didn’t have a way to keep them up, so she shaved them all off. Now she’s been bald ever since. She missed the braids, but the bald head was here to stay. She’d gotten used to it. It’s efficient, it’s easy, and it’s practical. Her being bald had nothing to do with the rest of the team, it’s just a coincidence. She had been a solid teammate and amazing cheerleader, but she’s still largely a mystery. She kept mostly to herself, did not hang with the team outside of cheer events, and had been slow to connect. This was partially due to her past. She moved around so much and never stayed in one place long enough that she learned attachments only ended in heartbreak.
Madison had more hair on her head than the entire rest of the team combined. She could cut more than half the length from her hair and what was left would still be more than the rest of the team. Of course, there would be no major cut since she only intended for her hair to get even longer. Madison had finally gotten to Heather about a week after they returned from spring break. She finally got her dream hair, even though she had no idea that was what she wanted at the time. Her hair became the most important thing. She would spend any amount of time, money, and effort needed to make it perfect. She changed her wardrobe and makeup to better showcase her glorious mane. She used to wear it up to get it out of the way, because she hated it so much. Now, it was always down and loose. She couldn’t even remember the last time it was even partially pulled back. It was her pride and joy.
Madison had always had that natural girl next door kind of beauty. She had never really spent a lot of time or effort on her appearance. She never really cared before, so she focused on other things. It seemed that with a bit of effort, Madison was a real stunner. She learned how to use her hair as a weapon, and it was definitely noticed around campus.
Betty found herself in a bit of a predicament. Initially, after she cut her hair and had Katie shave the rest of it off, Heather was the only one who had done anything with her hair. She figured that would be forced to change upon graduation. Especially if she planned to keep it shaved/buzzed. Until then Heather was her go-to gal. She still hoped that she would be even after their breakup, but it couldn’t be awkward. If it was only a matter of keeping her head shaved that would be easy. After all, at this point, she could just go to one of her teammates and they would be happy to help. But they weren’t Heather, and they weren’t responsible for everything that she had become.
Betty’s hair was starting to get long. It was longer than it had been since the end of the summer when Heather came to visit. Now, she couldn’t tolerate it anymore. She needed to do something, and she needed to do something fast.
DECISION MADE
Helen was a poor college student. Her constant lack of funds made everything a struggle. Her parents refused to let her get a job, as they felt it was important to focus on her studies and the adjustments of being in college. The first semester accomplished that. When the second semester started, she needed a haircut, badly. This led her to her present situation. The shy freshman’s wavy brown hair fell halfway down her back. It had been long her entire life. She always looked after it but wasn’t always the best at getting her hair cut. So, she made an appointment with Heather at the barbershop. The very idea terrified her, but she was desperate. Then due to a free haircut promotion, she ended up losing significant length and left with a shoulder length lob.
That could have been the end. She could get by the next few months and deal with her hair when she got home. However, it wasn’t. She may not have needed another haircut but wanted them. So, she continued to show up. She gambled with her hair and loved it every time. But she was running out of hair to lose. Most people would consider her bald. Even her former self would think that. It was close, but Helen was aware of the difference. The top of her head was buzzed with a #1 guard, and the back and sides were reduced to mere stubble with the bare blades.
It had never been quicker to get ready. Showers took half the time that they used to. She barely needed any shampoo or conditioner, and her hair was practically dry by the time she finished. It didn’t need to be styled, and since there wasn’t much there TO style, what was there fell perfectly into place. Every morning Helen would look at herself in the mirror and smile. She never felt more like herself. But now there was one final step to take.
Helen’s life had changed significantly, and it wasn’t just her hair, although that was the catalyst. Helen liked to play it safe and go along with everything. She was not a risk taker, until she gambled with her hair. Whether she won or lost could be debated. But the truth was that in the months since, her hair was practically gone, and she didn’t miss it at all. The gamble worked well for her hair, so maybe it would apply to other areas of her life. Every aspect of her life. Suddenly, Helen was incapable of making any decisions on her own. What to wear, what to eat. It was all decided by a coin flip or a dice roll. Her barbershop visits became her favorite part. It was her time to sit back, relax, and let someone else decide.
Two weeks. That was how long she gave herself. No matter what happened it would be two weeks before she went back to the barbershop. Then it would be a coin flip. Heads meant it was off to the barbershop. Tails meant she would wait another day. So far, it had been a week and a half of tails. Then it happened. Heads. It was time. Helen finished getting ready. She put on the most badass outfit she could come up with. That was a coin flip too. It was a choice between “cute” or “badass.” She took one last look at herself in the mirror as she exhaled. She smiled as she ran her hand through what little hair she had on her head. The next time she looked in that mirror, she expected to have none. Then she grabbed her things and headed out of her dorm to begin her day.
A HAPPY RETURN
Jenny was determined to get her bowl cut back. She considered herself lucky. She had spent her entire life with her long brown hair. She matched her twin sister in every way possible. Until their haircuts. While Jessie went short, she went shorter. She had had her bowl cut since day one and hadn’t wavered. She’d shaved her head bald a few times, but only as a show of team support not by personal choice. She had found her style and knew her long-term hair future.
“This place sure has gotten popular.” Candice sat in the barbershop chair that she used to be very familiar with. “I can’t believe I need an appointment to see you now.”
“You don’t need an appointment to see me.” Jenny stood over her friend. “We’re friends, you know how to get in contact with me.”
“Sure, but dealing with this mess…” Candice ran her fingers through her short pixie-ish hair. It had continued to grow since she last shaved it right before the end of the previous semester in December.
“So, what are we doing now?” Jenny inquired. “I shaved it all off then helped you maintain your mohawk, until you shaved that off. But I haven’t touched your hair in months.”
“Well, I didn’t know what I wanted.” Candice explained. “Plus, I was in a play. So, I let the role dictate my style.”
“And now the play is over.” Jenny nodded.
“The final performance was over the weekend.” Candice smiled. “So now it’s time for the hair to go.”
“All of it?” Nothing surprised Jenny anymore. Her sister maintained a shaved head, and Candice had already done it. Plus, there wasn’t a lot to start with.
“Not quite.” Candice chuckled. “Keep this…” Candice held her thumb and pointer finger about an inch and a half apart and dragged them across the top of her head.
“Mohawk?” Jenny raised her eyebrow.
“You know how much I loved it.” Candice smirked. “Honestly, Jenny, it’s all I’ve been thinking about. But the decision was sealed over spring break.”
“What happened over spring break?” Jenny reached for the clippers and started to prep Candice’s hair, as she listened.
“Well, you know how well my hair was received at Thanksgiving. I was bald for Christmas, or close to it.” Candice looked down. “Grandma was sad to see my mohawk gone but I explained the whole thing and she understood.” Candice sighed. “Then during spring break, Grandma was disappointed. She said she hoped I wouldn’t grow it again. I told her that I wouldn’t grow it as long as it used to be, but this was for a play. But that conversation made me think about how my biggest concern turned out to be my biggest supporter. I liked the mohawk. I know it started off as a kind of joke and was supposed to be temporary… but let’s be honest, I only got rid of it because of Amanda and the play.”
“You’ll get no argument from me.” Jenny turned the clippers on. “Ready?”
Candice took a minute. She stared at herself in the mirror and took a deep breath. “Yes!”
Jenny aligned the blades to Candice’s forehead, being careful to avoid the strip of hair on top that would grow out into the mohawk.
“I can’t believe I’m committing to this.” Candice was all smiles.
“You don’t have to,” Jenny paused a moment.
“Yes, I do. Please continue.” Candice insisted. “Jenny, this is what I want. This is who I am now. This is Candi.” She exhaled. “I’m still an actress and my hair will always cede to whatever role I get. That won’t change. But in between? When I’m just me? I want this.”
“That’s great!” Jenny smiled as she continued to remove her friend’s hair, “Candi?”
“Yeah.” Candi smiled. “I mean it. Going forward, I’m officially Candi, no matter what.”
Jenny stopped and put down her clippers. She walked in front of Candi and squatted down so they were eye level. “You have no idea how happy that makes me. I really like Candi.” She hugged Candi.
“I really like Candi, as well.” Candi grinned as Jenny picked up the clippers and continued. “And Candi 2.0 will be an even better version of Candi.”
“2.0, eh? I wonder what that entails.” Jenny mused.
“I don’t exactly know. But I’m excited to find out!”
“Me too!” Jenny enthused, as she finished one side of Candi’s head and moved over to the other.
DEFIANT CLIENT
Throughout most of her life Amanda had long, thick, stick-straight, natural blonde hair that fell to just above her waist. That was until a few months ago. She got the lead in a play. And the role required a bald head. She tried a bald cap, but it turns out she was allergic and broke out in hives. Other options were briefly discussed but, in the end, shaving her head was the only option. So, she reluctantly did.
Once the play was over, she had been frantic to grow it back out again. All the vitamins, supplements, proper diet, and plenty of sleep can only go so far. Her hair was now about three to four inches in length. It was a very short shaggy crop cut. Amanda would have preferred to just let it grow, but she knew it needed some maintenance. She was desperate to not lose any length. Plus, she would graduate soon and wanted to look her best.
“Hello, Amanda. It’s nice to see you again.” Heather greeted her client. “I wondered if I’d see you again.”
“Yeah, well, it’s not entirely by choice…” Amanda answered. “Do you do extensions?”
“Not usually.” Heather was frank. “I specialize in short and shaved styles. Most of my clients have short or shaved styles and have a desire to stay that way. So, it’s not that I can’t or won’t, but there isn’t much of a demand for them.” Heather got quiet as she paused for a moment, before continuing. “I also don’t have any and they take a lot of time, so that would need to be figured out as well.”
“I’ve got that covered.” Amanda brushed off Heather’s concern. “For now, just help me deal with this.” Amanda sat down in the chair and exhaled. “I haven’t touched it since I was here last time. I’ve wanted to grow it back out. Now, it’s finally got a bit of length, but it needs some shape. I REALLY DON’T WANT TO LOSE ANY LENGTH. None, not even half a millimeter.” Amanda demanded. “I went to my girl at home during the break. She took one look at me and freaked. Like I was some kind of pariah.” She exhaled, “So, now I’m here. I don’t want to be, but I need to do something.”
“Well, I’m happy to help any way I can.” Heather responded, “But I don’t know how much I can do for you under those conditions.”
“Aren’t you some kind of amazing hair guru miracle worker or something?” Amanda huffed.
“I’ve never claimed that.” Heather corrected, “I can’t control what others say or do.”
“Whatever.” Amanda scoffed. “Just do what you can.”
Heather took a couple of minutes to survey Amanda’s hair and see what the options were. She fussed a bit with the hair and studied Amanda carefully.
“I take it you’ll continue to grow it out.” Heather said flatly.
“No shit,” Amanda rolled her eyes. “I’m putting in extensions as soon as I can.” The room grew silent for a minute as Heather thought. “Hey! Are you actually gonna do anything or just continue to stare? I don’t have all day.”
“I don’t have all day either.” Heather took a few more seconds. “But now I have an idea. Do you trust me?”
“Not at all.” Amanda said bluntly, “but go ahead anyway.”
Heather wasn’t a huge fan of Amanda. She didn’t care for her attitude, but Heather always tried to treat everyone properly. She had some history with Amanda and so this wasn’t totally unexpected. Still, Heather tried to promote positive energy.
“Okay, I’ll be right back.” Heather exited her back room and found her way to the main area of the barbershop, leaving Amanda to sit in the chair.
THE TIME IS NOW
Helen was admittedly distracted as she tried to get through her day. Her hair was shorter than she ever dreamed possible. She didn’t have much length left to lose. Heck when she used to get a trim done to her long hair, she would have gotten rid of more than what she had left. Yet this felt like the biggest change of all. The day clicked by slowly but somehow, she got through it. Once Helen was free, it was off to the barbershop.
“Hi, Nikki!” The young freshman opened the door and headed over to the reception desk. “It’s a beautiful day for a head shave, doncha think?”
The first time Helen entered the barbershop she was intimidated and terrified. She almost walked out three times. Now, it had become one of her favorite places on campus and she had become friendly with most of the staff.
“I wouldn’t know.” Nikki responded brusquely. Her right hand causally stroked her head. Her multicolored liberty spikes were styled to perfection. It had been almost a year since Heather first created this style. In that time, Nikki had grown quite fond of it, but she also craved something different. Seeing all these others coming in and getting their heads shaved certainly didn’t help. She quickly glanced down at the appointment book. “I don’t see you listed though.” Nikki looked at Helen, “Heather is jammed packed. I can’t get you in. I know you only want Heather, but I don’t even know if I could get you in with someone else.” She looked up and indicated the full waiting area. “As you can see, we’ve gotten quite busy.”
“I’ll wait. I’m desperate.” Helen pleaded. “I really need this done.”
Nikki exhaled and sat back. She looked at Helen inquisitively. After a moment she leaned forward with her elbows on the table as her hands cupped her head. “Are you okay?” Nikki finally asked out of genuine concern. “I mean it. Is there anything going on?”
“I’m fine!” Helen answered cheerfully, “I just need a haircut!”
“Do you, though? Do you really?” Nikki looked at Helen with a raised eyebrow, challenging her. She dropped her arms and lifted her head as she leaned back. “I know you might WANT one. Most of us WANT one,” she waved her hand to indicate the entire full waiting area, plus Jenny and Janie, working the chairs. “Including ME, but that’s not the same as NEEDING one.”
“But I-I-I –” Helen started.
“I know.” Nikki held her hand up. “But it wasn’t that long ago that you first walked in here. You were completely terrified, with that beautiful long hair of yours, but you were desperate for a haircut.” Nikki paused. “DESPERATE. That’s when you actually NEEDED a haircut. But since then…” Nikki trailed off. “What happened to that girl? Where is she?”
“I saw the light. She’s gone.” Helen smiled as she rubbed her head.
Before either she or Nikki had a chance to say anything else, they were interrupted by Heather.
“Nikki, can I bother you for a minute? Amanda is being…” Heather searched for the word she wanted to use.
“Difficult?” Nikki answered.
“That works” Heather nodded. “Hi, Helen,” Heather quickly made note of the eager freshman, “Did you want a haircut?”
Helen opened her mouth to speak but before she could say anything, Nikki answered.
“I told her your schedule was super packed, and you didn’t have even a minute to spare. No one does.”
“Nikki’s right.” Heather turned to Helen sympathetically. “She does my schedule she would know.” She noticed the look of devastation on Helen’s face. “Head shave?”
Helen slowly nodded.
“Come back right before close, if I can get you in, I will. It shouldn’t take long, but I can’t promise anything.”
“Heather!” Nikki scolded, as she stood up. Even though it was her decision, Nikki wasn’t always a fan of how open Heather was. “Let’s not keep Amanda waiting.”
A few minutes passed. Helen waited. Some guys tried to pay her so they could leave. A few more walked in. After this happened multiple times, Helen moved behind the desk, so she could get out of the way. Janie noticed and started to head over but Helen waved her off. Finally, Nikki reentered from the back room.
“Oh, you’re still here.” Nikki commented when she saw Helen behind the desk. Helen got up and they switched spots.
“I was just –” Helen started to explain. She stepped back as a customer headed towards the desk. He paid Nikki and after a brief exchange left.
“Yeah, well, this is another thing.” Nikki held up a few bills. “You do realize this is a business, right? You’re taking advantage of Heather’s good nature.”
“I – I –” Helen was caught off guard.
“Yeah, I know… you’re a poor college student with no money. I get it, I understand it.” Nikki was sympathetic but also protective of Heather. Plus, something was going on with Helen, and she would figure it out. “What about a job?”
“I’d love a job. I’m dedicated and a hard worker. But my parents won’t let me get one. They want me to focus on my studies.” Helen confessed. “But that’s only for my freshman year, so hopefully, that won’t last much longer.”
“That’s unfortunate.” Nikki looked down at the book, then looked back at Helen. “Be back by 8:30. Then I’ll have a better idea if Heather can get you in or not.”
“Thank You!” Helen grinned as she skipped out of the barbershop. It would be a long few hours, but it would be worth it.
Helen walked around campus. She couldn’t get her mind off what was about to happen. She also couldn’t go back to her dorm room. At least, she didn’t want to. Before she left that morning, she took one last look at herself with hair, what little she still had left. Nothing had changed yet, so she didn’t want to go back if she didn’t have to. She grabbed dinner and ate slowly. Her meal card was running out so she savored every bite.
Finally, she could wait no longer. She slowly walked across campus towards the barbershop. She enjoyed the feel of the light breeze against her head. It was probably a good thing, since she expected this would be her future. She was about to be bald and looked forward to it. She doubted it would be forever, but anything is possible. One thing she knew for sure was that it would stay short. How short, she wasn’t sure, but she loved the buzzcut. It was quicker, it was cheaper, and perhaps most important she never felt more alive or like herself.
Helen stood outside the barbershop. She looked at her watch. 8:17. She was early, but she was eager. Time seemed to pass slowly. After she walked a few laps around the barbershop, she looked again. 8:23. Why does time always pass so slowly when we wait for something to happen and so quickly when we don’t? Helen couldn’t wait any longer. After a quick exhale, she opened the door and headed inside.
“Oh, good you’re here.” Nikki greeted Helen. “Have a seat. Heather is running a bit behind, but will definitely fit you in.” Nikki sighed. “She was adamant about that. In the meantime, fill this out.” Nikki handed Helen a piece of paper.
“What’s this?” Helen asked as she took the paper on her way over to the waiting area.
“Just fill it out.” Nikki spoke sternly.
Helen looked down at the paper. “A job application? I don’t understand.”
“It’s a solution to a problem. You need a job. This is a job. You want to continue to get your hair cut by Heather? Or shaved or buzzed or whatever you end up doing with it? This will allow that to happen.”
“Oh.” Helen had a mystified expression on her face but started to fill the application out. She looked around. The shop was a lot emptier than it was earlier. Jessie was there, finishing up with a client and there was one other guy in the waiting area. His head was already bald, and he seemed really engrossed in watching Jessie. Helen got back to the application, “I can’t cut hair though.” She declared to Nikki.
“Oh, you won’t be doing any of that,” Nikki clarified. “No, you’ll basically be my assistant. Or anyone’s. Clean up, answer the phone, work the desk, basically whatever needs to be done.”
“So, like a scrub.” Helen interpreted.
“That’s not what I said. That’s your word not mine.” Nikki sighed, “Look, it’s a job. It’s an opportunity. I can’t make it official. I have to run it past Emma and Heather, but I don’t think it will be an issue. It’s up to you though. You’d be able to start next semester.”
“You should totally take it.” Jessie turned around to face Helen, as she finished up with the client in her chair. “It’s a great place to be and you’d fit right in.” She turned to the guy sitting a few chairs away. “You ready, babe?” Jessie smiled.
“Absolutely.” Tim stood up and made his way over to Jessie. He wrapped his arm around her and gave a quick smooch on the cheek. Jessie giggled as Tim sat down in the chair.
Helen went back to filling out the application. It was fairly straight forward. It seemed like mostly a formality. She finished it and got back up to hand it to Nikki. “You need measurements?” She asked.
“For the uniform.” Nikki answered.
“Oh.” Helen said softly. She looked at Nikki and over at Jessie. They were wearing the same thing, she had never noticed or paid close attention before, but it was the same outfit she saw Heather in every time. She probably should have realized. She looked at herself. “I didn’t think about that.”
Just then a tall, slender woman came out of the back room. She was all smiles as she walked towards Nikki and the reception desk.
“Looks like you can head on back.” Nikki told Helen, as she turned her attention towards the woman who had just left the back room. “Good luck.” She said in a sing-song way.
Helen settled into the comfortable plush leather chair she had gotten used to. She took a moment and looked at herself in the mirror. She studied herself. Then a thought struck her.
“Can I make a request?” Helen asked.
“Yes, I’m doing this for free.” Heather sighed as she reached for the shaving foam and began to lather her hands.
“No, that’s not it. But thank you, by the way. I really appreciate you fitting me in.” Helen gushed. “I can’t believe this is happening!”
“I’m happy to do it.” Heather stood behind Helen and began to massage her head with the foam. “So, what’s the request?”
“Can we leave the curtain open? I know you usually cover the mirror and keep things a surprise for a big reveal at the end.” Helen explained. “But I really want to watch this time. I want to see it happen.”
“I can do that.” Heather smirked at the young enthusiastic freshman seated in front of her. She headed over to the sink to rinse her hands and then grabbed the razor. She stood over Helen, razor in hand. “Ready?”
The question hit. Helen had been ready all day. More than ready. She had been preparing for this moment for weeks. Really, if she was being honest with herself, she had a feeling this could happen since she left the shop after her third visit. But now it was really happening. There was no shot she wouldn’t go through with it. She was looking forward to it, which only added to her excitement. The fact that she would watch it all unfold was the icing on the cake. Then, before Helen had the chance to say anything, the razor touched the base of her hair right in the middle of her forehead. Heather swiped the razor straight back across Helen’s head, leaving a strip of bare skull behind. Helen gasped. It wasn’t a question it was a statement.
“You didn’t let me answer!”
“Would it have changed anything?” Heather quickly made a second swipe right next to the first.
Helen smiled as she realized Heather gave her exactly what she wanted, as always. She sat back and relaxed. She wanted to fully enjoy the experience and have no regrets. So far, so good. The foam on her head tingled in a magical way. Her exposed scalp felt air for the first time. It wouldn’t be the last.
“No, I suppose not.” Helen admitted. She continued to stare straight ahead as she watched her old self shed before her.
Heather continued to work her razor on Helen’s head. Heather moved quickly. She had done this hundreds of times before. She could do this blindfolded and half asleep. It was late and it had been a long day, but it was a big deal for Helen, and she deserved the best experience possible.
Soon, Heather made her final few passes over Helen’s head. Not a trace of hair was left.
“Wow,” Helen remarked. “Wow, wow, wow…” was all she could say. She started to reach her hand up to her now bare head. Heather swatted her hand away.
“Wait!” Heather reached out swatted Helen’s hand. “You’re not done yet.”
“I-I-I’m not?” Helen stammered as she lowered her hand.
“Second pass.” Heather answered. She reached for the foam and squirted it into her hands. She lathered it in her hands as she walked back over to Helen. “I always do a second pass.” Heather began spreading the foam over Helen’s head.
“Oh.”
“Is that okay?” Heather asked sarcastically, which was a new character trait she was testing out. She grabbed the razor and didn’t wait for confirmation.
“Oh, yes! Of course. Whatever is best.” Helen was grateful for whatever Heather was willing to provide. She still felt a bit overwhelmed.
Heather took it a bit slower this time. She usually did. It was important to Heather that she create as positive an experience as possible for all her clients, no matter what. Heather had no idea what Helen’s future plans were, nor did she think Helen had any clue.
Only a few months ago, Helen’s hair fell to the middle of her back. She loved her hair and rarely varied. Never in a billion years could she have imagined that she’d be sitting in a barbershop getting her head shaved. Willingly. And enjoying it. That was possibly the craziest part of it all. She got to watch it happen. She wanted to watch it happen. The transformation was exhilarating. It was a relatively small amount of hair to lose, compared to her other haircuts. But the difference was immeasurable.
Helen took a hard look in the mirror. There wasn’t much foam left on her head. She was bald. SHE WAS BALD! Really, truly, bald. She smiled. She liked it. Her heart started to beat faster. She couldn’t wait to feel it but also wanted to wait until Heather gave her proper permission. She studied Heather. She loved to watch her work. She was definitely in her element. Helen took special notice of Heather’s outfit.
A teal bikini top with white trim. The front consisted of two triangles connected by a white string that tied in the back behind the neck. The bottom had a thin white strip that clipped in the back. Across the left breast was a caricature of a smiling bald cheerleader holding clippers in each hand like they were pom poms. Encircled across the bottom were the words CHEERFUL CLIPS. The white mini skirt was short and covered in fringe. It captured even the slightest movement.
Helen had never worn anything close to that. But then she had never shaved her head or even given it the slightest thought before now. Heather seemed totally comfortable and natural, not at all self-conscious. All the girls did. Helen wanted the job. She knew she would work somewhere on campus next semester. If the barbershop was an option, it’s where she wanted to be. She would not let the clothing be an obstacle. She also realized that she was in no position to negotiate.
“Okay. Just one final step.” Heather broke Helen’s thought process. She had been so engrossed in her own thoughts, she didn’t even notice Hether had finished. Heather walked back with a spray bottle and a towel. She squirted the bottle a few times on Helen’s head. She briefly massaged Helen’s head and then buffed it with the towel. Helen leaned her head back and let out an uncontrollable audible moan.
“Oh, my God. I’m so sorry.” Helen’s face flushed red with embarrassment.
“Don’t worry about it.” Heather smirked. “It happens all the time.” Heather took another few seconds to go over Helen’s head one final time. “So, I take it, you approve.”
“Oh, yes!” Helen smiled as she stared at the new image before her. “It’s even better than I could imagined, if that’s possible.” She turned her head to examine her new look from all angles. “May I?” Helen tentatively started to reach her hand towards her head.
“Of course. You’re all set.” Heather stepped back and smiled at another seemingly satisfied customer.
Helen eagerly shot her hand to her head and started to rub it vigorously as she simultaneously leapt from the chair and headed towards the mirror for a closer look. She started to giggle uncontrollably. “It’s so smooth!”
Heather watched as Helen continued to gush over her new look. Helen could not stop touching it as her smile continued to grow.
“Does this feeling ever go away?” Helen turned towards Heather.
“I’ll let you know.” Heather chuckled as she quickly grazed her own smooth head. “You do get used to it after a while, though.” She continued to watch Helen stare at herself while she explored her head. “I guess you like it.”
“Oh, Heather.” Helen turned towards the small barberette. She searched her arms out. “May I?”
Heather nodded her approval as Helen approached. They embraced, then Helen started to cry,
“Helen, what’s wrong?” Heather pulled back and looked at Helen with concern. “Why are you crying?”
“I’m just so happy,” Helen explained. “I knew I wanted this. I figured that out a few weeks ago, and there’s not much I’m decisive about these days. I just never realized how much I NEEDED this.” She grazed her hand across her head as she said that, and it made her smile. “So! Much!”
“Well, I’m glad it turned out well, but it won’t stay that way. So, you’ll have to figure out what you want.”
“This. I want this.” Helen reiterated.
“Okay. Well, if you plan to stay like that, you’ll need regular shaves.” Heather mentioned. “Just show up around the same time any day and I’ll try to fit you in.”
Helen stared at Heather blankly as she contemplated that.
“Yes, at no charge.” Heather sighed. She was concerned that Helen might take advantage of her good nature. She didn’t mind though, it was her favorite thing to do, it was quick and she liked Helen anyway.
“No, that’s not it.” Helen replied. “But thank you.” Helen was distracted. Her mind was suddenly flooded with clarity. The poor college student, who hadn’t been able to make a decision in months, suddenly knew what she wanted. “I’ll definitely be back.” She grinned widely as she rubbed her head. “Multiple times.” She doubted she’d keep this look forever, although she didn’t foresee an issue if she did. But she knew she wanted to commit until at least the end of the semester. She planned to make this her last stop right before she went home for the semester, so she could be exactly as she was at this moment.
The barbershop quickly became her favorite place to be, and she wanted to be there more. She wanted the job and was willing to do whatever it took to get it. Her summer plans had just changed.
After another minute with Heather, Helen headed back out to the main room of the barbershop. It was virtually empty except for Nikki, who waited by her desk. As Helen walked towards her, Nikki looked up.
“Well, don’t you look different.” Nikki noticed. “And I don’t just mean your hair, although that certainly is a big part of it.”
“Oh, I know.” Helen gushed. “I feel different too. It’s so liberating.”
“So, I’ve heard.” Nikki commented. “I guess you’ll be back.”
“Yes, Heather told me to come by at this time, any day I want, and she’ll fit me in.”
“I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then?” Nikki inquired, as she pulled out the appointment book.
“Oh, I don’t know. I hadn’t thought about that yet…” Helen paused. She ran her hand over her head. “I do know I want to take this look home with me though. So, I know I definitely want to stop by right before I leave for the summer.” Helen watched as Nikki paged through the book. “Also, um, I really want the job. I’ll do whatever I need to get it.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.” Nikki looked up at Helen. “It’s not my call, but I’ll discuss it with Emma and Heather. We’ll let you know.”
CONFESSIONAL
“Emma, I need to talk with you. But as a friend not a coach.” Betty sat across from Emma in her makeshift office. “You can still do that, right?”
“Yes, of course.” Emma sighed. This year was tough. It was situations like this where she needed to tread carefully. She was friends with most of the team and when she made that jump from captain/cheerleader to coach/authority figure was an adjustment for them all. But the cheer season was over, and Betty would graduate in a few weeks anyway. “What’s up?”
“I don’t like how things are with me and Heather,” Betty held back tears. “We got so tight and close. She was my best friend, especially after Katie left. I didn’t want to lose that. It was my biggest concern about getting into a relationship with her.”
“So, what’s the issue?” Emma was there throughout the early stages of Betty’s and Heather’s friendship and blossoming romance. She knew about their breakup but tried to keep her distance.
“Well, you know we broke up.” Betty paused for a moment. “Though, I suppose if you want to get technical, I broke up with her. But I’m graduating and I thought I was doing the right thing… I still wanted us to be friends.” She sighed, “Emma, I wouldn’t be where I am without her. She’s responsible for all this.” She flailed her hands up and down her body. “I’m such a better person, physically, mentally, emotionally…”
“Then why did you end it?”
“Emma!” Betty buried her face into her hands.
“I’m sorry.” Emma apologized, “So what can I do?”
“I need my head shaved.” Betty declared.
“And you want me to do it?” Emma questioned.
“No.” Betty paused. “I want Heather to do it. She’s the only one who’s ever shaved my head. Outside of one small trim late last summer, she’s the only one who’s done anything with my hair since Katie first cut it all off.”
“So…”
“And I know I have to figure something out because I’ll be gone soon.” Betty starts to sniffle. “I thought we’d have more time.”
“Have you talked with Heather about this?” Emma asked. “What has Heather said about any of this?”
“We’ve barely spoken since we came back from break. She’s barely even acknowledged me.” Betty admitted. “It’s been the worst few weeks of my life…”
“Oh, Betty…” Emma leaned forward. She offered comfort. The room stayed silent for a beat. “Do you regret it? Do you regret the breakup?”
Betty froze for a moment. She carefully considered the question. “No.” She sat up, wiped away a tear and further explained. “No, it was the right call. What we had wasn’t love, it was lust. Eventually it would have all fallen apart. I felt it best to end it now rather than string it along. If I regret anything, it’s that we turned our friendship romantic in the first place.”
“You need to talk with Heather. You need to explain YOUR feelings. You need to be prepared for any outcome. But please, for both of you, don’t make this about your hair. You’ve both grown so much beyond that.”
SUMMER PLANS
Anna was annoyed at herself. She had given herself such a hard time about the team’s competition loss that she missed out on a lot. It turns out that Doug was a great guy. Once she let her guard down and opened her heart a little, she saw that. She was mad because she was undeservedly so hard on him and so resistant to him. All that ended up doing was delaying time they could have had together. She hated to admit it, but she was going to miss him.
“I’ve enjoyed our time together, and I’ll miss you over the summer.” Anna confessed.
“Just think how much more time we could have had together.” Doug teased.
“I knoooow.” Anna whined, “I’m never living that down, am I?”
“It’s a story for the grandkids.” Doug smirked.
“Grandkids?” Anna was taken slightly aback. “You’re jumping the gun just a touch, doncha think?”
“You’re right I suppose we need to have kids first.” Doug smirked as he got up to refill the pitcher of soda.
Anna stared at him as he walked away.
“Damn Anna, you’ve got it bad.” Janie noticed as she and Scott walked back over to the table arm in arm. It seemed like Anna was falling for Doug. Janie had already fallen for Scott, and the two had practically become inseparable.
“Shut up, Janie.” Anna blushed. “At least I’m not as bad as you two.”
“Yet.” Janie joked, as she sat back down.
Anna scoffed. Then after a beat. “I don’t know how I’m getting through this summer, you two must really be devastated.”
“Not really.” Janie smiled as she leaned into Scott as he wrapped his arm around her. “We’ll go home for a few days, maybe a week, and then I’m gonna go visit him and stay for a few weeks, then I’ll go home and then he can come visit me.” Janie looked up lovingly into his eyes. “It won’t be easy, but we’re figuring it out.”
“That sounds really –” Anna stopped, as she looked up as Doug came back. “Hey, Doug, would it be okay if I come for a visit over the summer?”
“Sure.” Doug answered as he placed the refilled pitcher of soda on the table and sat back down. He looked at Anna, and then across the table at Janie and Scott, then back to Anna. “I feel like I’m missing something.”
“Oh, nothing.” Anna darted her eyes. “Janie and I were just plotting.”
“We should make sure our visits overlap!” Janie sat up very excited.
“Duh!” Anna equaled her enthusiasm.
“We’ll start planning tomorrow!” Janie declared, as she looked at Doug and they smiled broadly at Scott who sheepishly smiled back.
TWINS AGAINST TWINS
Meanwhile, Jenny and Jessie had no such issue as they already lived close to their boyfriends. It was always interesting seeing two sets of twins out together, but now each set of twins looked different enough to not immediately think they were twins. This did not sit well with Tate.
“You two look more alike than we do.” Tate informed his brother.
“So?” Tim asked.
While Tate had immediately regrown his hair and beard after he shaved it all for the competition, Tim did not. It was the first time in their lives that they looked different. They did not have the same desire for separateness that Jenny and Jessie had. However, Tim discovered he weirdly enjoyed the sameness he now shared with Jessie. Jessie enjoyed being bald and while she knew it probably wouldn’t be forever, she was in no hurry to grow it back. Although it took some adjustment, Tim loved his girlfriend’s bald look and as much as he missed matching his brother, he relished matching Jessie more. So, they were stuck, and Tim and Tate were learning to live slightly more separate lives than they had ever imagined.
“Yeah, what’s the issue?” Jessie leaned into her boyfriend, while she rubbed both their heads. “Besides, if it really bothers you, you can always change.” She laughed.
“NO!” Jenny firmly declared. She had reluctantly accepted her bald twin sister, she did not want her boyfriend bald as well.
“Don’t worry, babe. I wasn’t even thinking it.” Tate defended. “I was just wondering, when my brother – my twin brother, who I’ve shared everything with, including the womb – might want his hair back!”
“Maybe never.” Tim smiled, as he rubbed Jessie’s head. As she leaned in and they kissed passionately. The truth was he imagined the look wouldn’t be forever but had no problem keeping it as long as Jessie did.
Tate stormed off.
“I’m not shaving you anymore.” Jenny threatened as she quickly shot dirty looks at the two baldies before she got up and chased after him. Jessie giggled and hugged her boyfriend tighter.
“Is it wrong that this kind of make me want to stay this way longer?” Tim smiled at his girlfriend.
“Me too, babe.” Jessie giggled. This made her love her bald head and her boyfriend even more. “And don’t worry, I have plenty of other teammates that can take care of it for me.”
“What about over the summer?”
Jessie paused for a moment. Then looked straight into her boyfriend’s eyes. “You could do it.”
Tim looked straight-faced at his girlfriend for a moment. Then his lips slowly turned up as an evil smile formed. “I love you so much right now.” He picked her up by the waist as she wrapped her legs around them as they made out.
Lines had been drawn and neither Jessie nor Tim had any intention of backing down.
A NEW START
Helen had the most amazing day ever. The first thing she did when she got back to her dorm room was look in the mirror. She smiled like it was an old friend. When she went to sleep her pillow engulfed her head in the most spectacular way. She thought her shower was quick when her hair was buzzed… but that feeling of the water hitting her bare head, that made her not want to leave.
Eventually, she did. She got dressed but found most of her clothes didn’t reflect how she felt anymore. Oh well, the life of a poor college student didn’t leave her much choice. She casually ran her hand across her head. A shiver ran down her spine as she smiled. She couldn’t imagine that she would ever get used to that. By lunchtime she decided she would go back. Not that there was ever much doubt, but she solidified the choice and left little doubt it would become a new daily ritual. She mentally rearranged her schedule to make sure it was clear, then she looked at her watch and watched the time slowly tick by.
As evening turned to night, Helen made her way across campus to the now very familiar barbershop. She greeted Nikki and chuckled at the thought that she now had less hair than the multicolored liberty spiked receptionist.
“Somehow I knew you’d be back.” Nikki smirked.
“Was there ever any doubt?” Helen retorted.
“Based on your trajectory, and how you left here last night… not really.” Nikki sat back in her chair. “How does your schedule look tomorrow.?”
“I have a couple of classes in the morning and a meeting later in the afternoon. Why?”
“You still want the job?”
Helen nodded her head and smiled. “More than anything!”
“Can you get here a little earlier tomorrow night?” Nikki asked. “Emma wants to meet you.”
“Interview me.” Helen extrapolated.
“I wouldn’t think of it that way,” Nikki assured her. “I probably shouldn’t say this, because it’s really just a formality. The job is basically yours. Anyway, you can head on back, Heather should be ready for you.”
Helen thanked Nikki and slowly made her way to Heather’s back room. The life of a poor college student may not apply for much longer.
FRIENDS FOREVER
Heather’s days were long. She loved every minute of them, but it was still exhausting. It had been another long day at the barbershop. Heather was in her room, trying to relax before going to bed, when she heard a gentle knock on the door.
“Hey kiddo, it’s me. Can we talk?” The muffled voice said from the hallway.
Heather got up and opened the door. Betty stood in front of her in her nightgown. Heather stepped aside to let Betty in. She went back to what she was doing and getting ready for bed. Betty sat down on the bed and tried to figure out how she wanted to begin. After a couple of minutes of awkward silence, Heather finally spoke.
“Did you want something, Betty?” Heather tried to ask in as friendly a way as possible.
“We’re still friends, right?” Betty finally asked. “Please tell me we’re still friends…”
“It’s what you wanted isn’t it?” Heather replied with just a hint of sarcasm.
“Heather…” Betty began, her voice quivering.
“Betty.” Heather stated. “I need to get to sleep soon. If you want something, you need to say so.”
“I want a haircut…” Betty finally managed at a barely audible level.
“What? A haircut?” Heather tried to make sure she heard correctly. “I wondered about that. Honestly, Betty… When I didn’t hear from you weeks ago, I just assumed you weren’t interested any more. I wanted to respect your decision, so I didn’t say anything.”
Betty looked at Heather, trying to process what she had just said.
“Of course you can have a haircut. Anything in particular?” Heather continued. “Did you want it now?”
“Oh, Heather… you know what I want.” Betty slowly ran her hand through her slowly growing locks. “But it’s late, and I don’t want to keep you. Maybe tomorrow?”
Heather smirked, “Oh Betty… You’re never any trouble. Sit.” Heather pulled her desk chair out and indicated for Betty to sit down. “You’ve waited long enough.” Heather gathered her supplies. Even though she mainly worked at the barbershop now, she aways had a spare on hand.
Betty sat down in the chair and exhaled. “I – I’m … sorry.” Betty apologized. “I never wanted this.”
“Sorry, for what?” Heather stood next to Betty, clippers in hand. “Did you want a shave? Or something else?”
“Headshave, please.” Betty confessed quietly, as she let out a sigh of relief. “Heather, please promise me you’ll never change.”
“I don’t know if I can promise that, Betty.” Heather stated as she turned the clippers on and began to make a pass over Betty’s head. “I’ve already changed so much in the past two years. I can’t say for sure that I’m done.”
“That’s exactly what I’m talking about.” Betty smiled. “Thank you for doing this.”
“Of course. We’re friends and teammates. You know I’m always here for you.” Heather quickly continued to remove Betty’s hair.
Betty started to tear up. “I don’t deserve you.”
“Betty, is everything ok?” Heather stopped the clippers with just a few passes left, “I’ve never seen you like this.”
“It’s just…” Betty paused, trying to figure out her feelings. “We broke up. I hurt you. You’re not supposed to be this open.”
“But we’re friends. That never changed. Friends for life, remember?” Heather reminded her friend as she continued to remove Betty’s hair. “We promised each other remember?” Heather put down the clippers and reached for the shaving cream. “I was actually a little concerned when I hadn’t heard from you. I thought maybe I did something wrong.”
“Oh no, kiddo…” Betty pleaded. “Please never think that. You did nothing wrong. You’re amazing and this team is lucky to have you.”
“No, I’m grateful. I shudder to think where I’d be, or WHO I’d be, without them.” Heather admitted, as she began to massage the shaving cream onto Betty’s head.
“Well, I feel the same about you.” Betty reciprocated. “I never would have made it through last year without you.”
“So, why did you wait so long to stop by?” Heather picked up the razor and made the first swipe across Betty’s head. “I’ve missed you.”
Betty let out a soft moan, not in any sexual way, just… relief. “I’ve missed it too, Heather.”
Betty just sat in silence. She continued to absorb the moment. She closed her eyes as Heather continued to take the razor to her head. She truly had missed this. After a few minutes the job was done. Betty was bald again. And she was happy. Really, truly happy. For the first time in weeks. Betty got up, smiled and rubbed her head. She turned towards Heather and they hugged. “Thank you so much for this.” Betty whispered in her ear. Then she turned to leave. As she reached the door to Heather’s room, she heard a voice behind her.
“Same time tomorrow?”
Betty turned back, “Yeah… of course.” She was bald again. And she had her friend back. Although apparently, she had never really lost her in the first place.
CHECKING OUT
The final few days flew by and soon the semester was over. One by one, the cheer house emptied out as everyone headed elsewhere. Jazmine was the first to leave. She just slipped out without anyone really noticing, which had been typical of Jazmine. She had experience leaving, what she didn’t know as well was coming back. One day she was there and the next she wasn’t.
Jenny and Jessie were still feuding. Never in their lives had they been in a situation like this. They had had arguments, fights, disagreements. They didn’t always get along, but in the end, they were sisters – twins — and they would always make up. This time was different, and they knew it. Neither had spoken to or acknowledged the other in weeks. Not since the schism started.
Jessie didn’t like what was happening but had no intention of backing down. Plus, the more she lived with her new look the more she enjoyed it.
“Babe, please be honest, do you really like me this way?” Jessie turned onto her side to face her boyfriend in bed next to her.
“I do, Jess. I really do.” Tim replied while he reached his hand out and rubbed her head, as if to prove how much he meant it. “Honestly, I’m even a little surprised myself. Even if you never grew your hair again, I’d be okay with it.” He smiled as he pulled Jessie closer to him and kissed her on the top of her freshly shaven scalp, which made Jessie giggle.
“Thanks, that’s really reassuring.”
“Why do you ask? Is everything okay?” Tim asked concerned.
“No, well, I mean it is. But…” Her voice trailed off.
“Jenny.”
“Yeah,” Jessie admitted quietly. “I mean, I love being bald, don’t get me wrong, it’s just –”
“You don’t like what it’s doing to the relationship with your sister.” Tim finished her thought.
“Yeah.” Jessie quietly admitted. “We’ve had fights before. We’ve argued. But nothing like this.” Jessie paused, then looked deep into Tim’s eyes. “I love being bald. I didn’t think I would, and the first couple of times I was, it didn’t stick. But now?” Jessie ran her hand across her scalp, “I kinda love it and the fact that you feel the same makes me love it even more.”
Tim nodded in understanding, as he felt his own bald head.
“But if you didn’t, and you wanted me to grow it back, I would. No question, no debate. Done.” Jessie paused, “Even if you wanted it really long again, like I used to have it. I might not be happy about it, but I’d do it.”
Tim stopped Jessie, pulled her in close and gave her a long passionate kiss. “Don’t worry, I would never ask that. I know how much you love this look, and just short hair in general.”
“Thanks,” Jessie smiled lovingly at Tim. “You sure you don’t mind shaving me?”
Tim looked affectionately at Jessie. He smiled as his hand brushed across Jessie’s head. “Janie did a good job. Nice and smooth.” He paused for a moment, deep in thought. “I hope I don’t let you down.”
“Aw, babe…” Jessie assured him. “You could never let me down. I promise you won’t screw it up.”
“You’re beautiful.” Tim stared into his girlfriend’s eyes. Then he reached for Jessie and held her by the back of her head with one hand and around her waist with the other arm and pulled her close. She giggled as they made out.
The next day they were gone, and their respective twins weren’t far behind. So, both sets of twins left separately for a tension filled summer. They would all be back in the fall for their senior year but none of them knew what to expect.
A few of the girls stuck around longer than they needed to, for various reasons. Janie could have left a few days earlier, but she wanted to spend as much time with Scott as possible. They had already planned to spend a good chunk of the summer together, but she didn’t want the summer to start until she was ready. Anna felt the same way about Doug, but she needed to stay behind a bit longer.
Kathy also stayed. The longer she stayed the longer she could have her head shaved by Melissa. This was a shocking development for her, as she figured to make a nice clean exit and start her regrow process. Melissa had finally started getting better and didn’t need as much help getting around and doing things. But Kathy hated to admit that she was actually going to miss those shaves and the special bonding time she had with Melissa.
Once Melissa was ready to head for home, Kathy followed right behind. For Melissa it would be an adjustment as well. She knew she wanted to keep her bald head but wasn’t sure what her plan was. It was the longest she’d been without an outlet. She relied on Heather during the school year. Last summer it was that scum, Franklin. She even suffered through cuts and scrapes to appease him. Now, most recently, she had had Kathy. She talked with Emma and investigated all her options, so she wasn’t looking forward to summer as much as usual.
Tabitha left next, followed by Madison. Both made sure to stop by and visit Heather right before they went home. Tabitha had embraced her new style and was fully comfortable with any short style. So, she went daring. She needed to prove to her family this is who she was now. And she needed to be prepared to get through the summer without anyone to help with the style. So, she had the bottom of her head buzzed down. It wasn’t all the way to the skin, but close. While she had the top buzzed down to a #3. She wanted to dye it as well, but she didn’t want to completely freak her parents out, so she held off. But Heather promised to dye it any color she wanted upon her return.
“I’ll finally get to be red!”
“If that’s what you want.” Heather assured the rising sophomore.
“It is!” Tabitha declared emphatically, “I’m half tempted to do it now.”
“I’ll let that be your call.” Heather responded. “But I will say, if I do it for you now and you don’t touch it all summer, the grow out will look very strange.”
“No, I’ll wait.” Tabitha thought for a moment and then chuckled. “Red will probably become my sister’s least favorite color. Between Coach Jackie and me, her best friend and her sister… and it’s so SHORT!” She grinned further. “That alone would be reason enough to do it.”
“You’re sure?” Heather stood behind Tabitha, clippers in hand.
“Yes!” Tabitha nodded aggressively. “No guard, and #3 on top.”
“Okay, here we go.” Heather turned on the clippers and plunged them into Tabitha’s hair. Heather made quick work of the hair, while the clippers removed anything in their path.
Soon Tabitha’s head was bare from the crown down. Heather quickly turned off the clippers and put the #3 guard on. Then she proceeded to take swipes across the top of Tabitha’s head.
“You’ve got such nice hair. Is this going to be your look moving forward?
“I have no idea.” Tabitha chuckled uncomfortably. “I mean I’d like to not have to do this all the time. It’s been such a tumultuous year… I’ve done more with my hair during this past year then in all my previous life before that.” She laughed, “I know one thing for sure, though. I’d rather be permanently bald then ever deal with that mess again.”
“You say that like it’s a bad thing,” Heather commented, noting her own head as she continued reducing Tabitha’s.
“Oh, no, not at all.” Tabitha smiled at her friend through the mirror. “Heather, you’re amazing, and I could only hope to look as good as you. I enjoyed my time being bald. The actual first-time experience was amazing. I’d do it again in a heartbeat and I’m sure at some point I will. I just don’t want it to be an always thing.” She looked at Heather, who was finishing up her hair.
“It’s a choice.” Heather nodded. “I don’t fault anyone for NOT choosing it. The same way I don’t fault anyone who DOES choose it.” Heather made her final swipes. “Alright, you’re done. Not get out of here and have a good summer.”
“Thanks Heather!” Tabitha got up from her chair and brushed herself off. “Oh, one more thing,” she turned to face Heather, “Um, I just want you to know, I plan to keep up our run while I’m at home. Every day. Even if it’s by myself.” She hesitated for just a moment, “Which it probably will be.”
Then she disappeared out front, and after packing the last of her things she was gone.
Madison was almost the opposite. Fully back on the grow, Madison wanted to avoid salons as much as possible. Heather touched up her roots and gave an overall refresh to Madison’s teal colored hair. Her long, wavy, hair got a quick clean up and then it would go untouched until Madison’s return. Madison looked forward to her summer and wanted to introduce her new look to all of her friends who returned home.
Finally, it was Anna’s turn. She stuck around longer than she needed to or intended to. But she was dedicated to the team and wanted to be there for anyone who wanted or needed her. But once the team was gone, she had no more reason to stay. Especially since Doug would be waiting for her.
Shandra and Betty were only there because of graduation. The house felt pretty empty, as it was just the two of them and Heather. Shandra was not sentimental at all, but even she started to get a little choked up about the thought of leaving the place she called home the past four years. She had been through a lot and changed, in more ways than one. She sat back in her chair in the living room one final time, as she reached up and scratched her head. Her hand went right through her #3 buzzcut as she chuckled. That was the biggest and most unexpected change of all.
Betty was in a similar nostalgia beat. She was excited for the next chapter of her life but would miss what — and who – she left behind. Especially Heather.
“Tonight’s my last night. I leave tomorrow.” Betty began tearfully. “After graduation.”
“I know, and you want one last shave before you go.” Heather reasoned.
Betty cracked a small smile, “I hope it’s not our last.” She sat in Heather’s room, in a sports bra and athletic shorts.
“I’m sure it won’t be if you don’t want it to be.” Heather started to lather her hands and spread the foam onto Betty’s head.
“I’ve never had anyone but you shave it before.” Betty’s voice got low. “That’s going to change at some point.”
“I’m here any time you want.” Heather tried to stay positive as she grabbed the razor and began to remove the cream from Betty’s head.
“I’ll make you a deal.” Betty suddenly announced, “Anytime we’re in the same vicinity, you’ll shave my head!” Betty smiled at the idea she just had. “No matter what, no exceptions, I promise.”
“Well, gee, Betty. I’d never hold you to that. I do hope to see you again and I’d gladly shave your head any time you want… but anytime is a long time and a lot can change.”
“Heather, I’m serious and I promise.” Betty looked Hether straight in the eyes and emphatically emphasized every word.
“Okay, I’ll always find time for you.” Heather finalized Betty’s shave and then wiped it down with a towel.
Betty stood up as the two embraced, before she made her way out of Heather’s room. She rubbed her freshly shaved skull, feeling better about things.
Then the house was empty and it was just Heather. Without classes or any other distractions, Heather was able to focus on the two things that mattered most to her. If Heather wasn’t at the barbershop, she would be at the gym or on a run. If it wasn’t either of those, she was probably asleep. Nikki forced her out for “fun” once or twice a week, and she stayed over a couple of nights a week to keep Heather company as well.
