The Minister

Rachel remembered perfectly the day she had assumed her first important position: Director of Youth Affairs. She was barely thirty years old, with long hair cascading down her back, shiny and well-kept—a reflection of an ambitious young woman who had not yet felt the full weight of power. Her advisor at the time, Helen, had been the one to first question her image.

“Rachel, look, you’re young, and that works in your favour. Long hair gives off a sense of freshness and approachability, and that will help you with the youth. But,” Helen paused, brushing her fingers through Rachel’s hair, “if you’ll allow me, I think it’s time for something a little more current. Something that doesn’t take away your youthful charm but is less…university.” She smiled. “How about some layers?”

Rachel hesitated for a moment, but then nodded. She trusted Helen’s judgment. Helen called her trusted stylist, Sophie, who came to the office to do the cut.

“Well, Rachel, what we’re going to do is very subtle. Just some layers to add movement and volume, but don’t worry, you’ll still have that long hair you love,” Sophie said confidently, brushing through Rachel’s hair before beginning to cut.

The soft snip of the scissors was almost soothing. Rachel felt the strands falling onto her shoulders.