wozziewoo
It’s the aftermath of the first round of competition & it’s time for Evan & Lacey to leave. What else is going on? Read on to find out.
If you missed the competition, you can find that by clicking here:
The Start of Something New: Volume II Chapter 16 — The Competition – Regionals
To catch things from the beginning, here’s chapter one of this volume:
The Start of Something New: Volume II Chapter 1 — New Beginnings
If you want a refresher of volume one, click here:
Now for the next installment:
A Mutual Understanding
“Hey… mind if I sit here?” Franklin stood over Melissa, then sat down next to her without waiting for an answer. “I think we need to talk.”
“Oh, so now you want to talk with me?” Melissa asked, as she slid over to make room.
“Look, I don’t deserve any of your time. But if you’re willing to listen, I’ll explain.” Franklin pleaded.
“I’ll always listen.”
“You were right about a lot of what you thought about me…” Franklin began. “The truth is I am into you. I’ve been into you for a while. It began long before I even joined this team… in fact, you are one of the reasons why I joined.”
“I don’t understand.” Melissa turned to face her crush. “I was into you too. So, why put me through all that? Why completely ignore me?”
“I don’t like to mix business with pleasure. I’m not making excuses, but I wanted to be close to you without being close to you, if you get my drift. I specifically requested we NOT be paired up for that reason.” Franklin continued.
“So, it had nothing to do with my hair?” Melissa rubbed her bald head.
“Well, it’s complicated.” Franklin took a deep breath. “I think you look amazing. This look really suits you.”
Melissa blushed. “Thanks. I really like it, way more than I ever expected possible.”
“So, it all worked out then.” Franklin smiled.
“That’s not really my point… but I guess it did, if you want to look at it that way.” Melissa admitted.
“Look, I know the competition isn’t over and we still have Nationals coming up, but we do have a week off before we start training for that. Would you like to go out some time and we can discuss everything?” Franklin asked.
“You mean, like a date?” Melissa inquired, butterflies forming in her stomach.
“Yeah, sure. If you want to put a label on it.” Franklin answered.
“I look forward to it,” Melissa smiled.
As the bus pulled up to the house, everyone got off and unloaded. While they were all exhausted and looking forward to some much-deserved time off, Coach Beth and Emma called a quick meeting while everyone was still available.
“Okay, we’ll keep this very short, but we wanted to say a few words while you were all here.” Emma began. “I’ll start by saying how proud I am of everyone. First place is a huge accomplishment. You all earned some time off. But our work is not done. So, I hope everyone enjoys the next week and has a chance to catch up on whatever you’ve missed. Then it’ll be back to work. Nationals is only a short time away and the competition will only get tougher, but we all earned this break. So, take the time and recharge.” Emma turned to face Coach Beth. “Coach?”
“Thanks Emma. You said most of what I wanted to say. I’ll just add one thing.” She reached back & tugged at her ponytail. “So, it looks like you were successful in making my ponytail disappear. How much more of my hair do you want me to lose? I’ll put this to a vote. I can get it cut now, or we’ll wait until after the next round and get it done based on how we do there.”
“Coach, if you get it cut now, would you do it again after we win the whole thing?”
“One cut.” Coach clarified. “Now or Later.” She looked around at the group. No one said a word. “Okay, then we’ll wait. Thanks everyone. You know I have the utmost faith in you all, so I can’t wait until we win the whole thing. Emma?”
“Alright, enjoy your break. See you all next week!” Emma dismissed the team. Of course, they would all still be seeing plenty of each other as they weren’t really on a break. They just had a week off before practice would resume.
The team dispersed. Katie and Heather both took off to Evan’s salon. The sets of twins stayed in the living room before they headed off for a date. Franklin stayed behind to talk with Melissa and work out the details of their date. Janie headed to her room to start downloading footage from the weekend, with help from Anna.
The Big Announcements
Katie pulled up to the all-too-familiar location, the salon that had been the catalyst for what the team had become. She got out of her car and headed into the salon, with Heather right behind. As they walked inside, they were greeted by Lacey. “Hi, Katie. Hi, Heather. Welcome back. How did the competition go?”
“Great! We got first place and we’re moving on to the Finals. It’s good to be back though. Where’s Evan?”
“He’s with a client. They should be just about finished, though. You can both head back.” Lacey grinned.
Katie and Heather made their way back towards Evan’s room. Katie gave a quick knock and then walked in.
“NIKKI!” Heather ran past Katie to her friend. “I wasn’t expecting you here!”
“I know! Surprise!” Nikki giggled and stretched out her arms as Heather ran into them.
“Hey Babe.” Evan greeted his girlfriend. “I’ve missed you.”
“I know, the past few days were torture. How do I get through the next six weeks without you?” Katie embraced Evan.
“It won’t be easy.” Evan replied, before he turned towards Heather. “So, I’ve got a surprise for you, one that I hope will make things a little easier. When you take over, I know you’ll be dealing with a lot. There’s a lot of new clients and a new burden to juggle.” Evan continued. “One thing you won’t have to worry about is the rent. The rent for this building is paid off though the end of the year.”
“Oh… Wow.” Heather wasn’t entirely sure what that meant, but she was thankful for Evan’s help. “I think the team plans to open a barbershop where the coach’s cottage is, in the fall. So, I would probably operate out of there.”
“Well, you’ve got the space here if you need it.” Evan assured.
“That’s not all.” Nikki cut in. “I figured that you would need some help keeping track of it all. That way you can concentrate on everyone’s hair and everything else you have going on, so I’ll be filling in for Lacey!” Nikki smiled as she gave her friend the news. “I’m going to be your assistant!”
“Oh goodness… Thank you.” Heather was feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all.
“And I’ll make sure to schedule myself regularly, so you can keep this up.” Nikki smirked.
“You wouldn’t be the only one.” Heather informed.
“What does that mean?” Evan questioned.
“Melissa shaved her head.” Katie filled him in. “She’s totally hooked and can’t get enough of it.”
“Wow, I did not see that coming.” Evan nodded in approval.
“I’m happy she’s embraced it, and she looks phenomenal, but it’s been a lot.” Heather admitted “I’m still doing more than half the team on a daily basis. In fact, after you leave, I’ll be taking this one as well. Then, it will pretty much be the entire team.”
“This one?” Katie repeated. “Wow, I’m not sure how I should feel about that.”
“I’m sorry, Katie. You know I didn’t mean it that way.” Heather apologized. “I’m honored to get to do your hair.”
“That’s better.” Katie grinned. “But hey, you’re off the hook for now… I plan on spending as much time with Evan as possible over the next week. In fact,” Katie got into the chair that had only become too familiar over the past year plus, “If you don’t mind, babe, I could use a freshening up.”
“Why don’t we leave you two lovebirds alone?” Nikki reached her arm around Heather and guided her towards the door. “I’ll make sure she gets home.” Nikki and Heather left the couple alone in Evan’s room and said goodbye to Lacey on their way out the front door.
The Simple Rules For Dating
Melissa was on cloud nine. She was having the most amazing week, and it seemed like it was only going to get better. To think that shaving her head proved to be such the positive catalyst that it was. It amazed her to think about how against the idea she was only a week ago. She thought that the most she would get out of it was attention from Franklin. But the fact that she enjoyed it as much as she did has proven to be a nice bonus. She stood in front of the mirror and rubbed her head. She smiled. This was the best decision she ever made and regardless of how things ended up with Franklin, she had zero regrets.
The reaction around campus had been interesting. Everyone knew she was a cheerleader, and everyone knew she had held out. Many people knew the cheerleaders were in a competition and had finished round one over the past weekend. Those who knew Melissa personally also knew how attached she had been to her hair, so for many the fact that Melissa was now bald as well, was a bit surprising if not entirely unexpected. However, the fact that she embraced it as much as she did and was so positive about the outcome was surprising to everyone.
As Melissa stood in front of the mirror, she really wanted a fresh shave for her date. Heather wasn’t always easy to track down these days. She seemed busier than ever. She couldn’t wait for the barbershop to open, at least then she would just have to go walk across the path. Maybe she’d learn to do it herself? No matter, she’d deal with it later.
She couldn’t even seem to figure out what to wear. It had been a while since she had a reason to dress up or wear anything fancy. She felt nervous, even though she didn’t want to be. There was a lot at stake.
A few hours later, the doorbell rang. Janie ran to answer it. Franklin was there in a tan sports coat over a striped button-down shirt with the collar open. He had a bouquet of flowers in his hand.
“Wow, Franklin, you clean up nice.” Janie stepped aside to allow Franklin to step in. “Melissa will be right down.”
A moment later Melissa made her way down the stairs. She was wearing a tight, emerald green strapless satin mini dress with large hoop earrings. Her bald head shone and reflected the light as she made her way down the stairs. Franklin looked up and had a huge smile on his face. He obviously liked what he saw. Melissa walked over to Franklin and gave him a hug. Franklin stepped back and handed Melissa the flowers.
“Oh, thank you so much. These are beautiful.” Melissa took the flowers and looked around for a place to put them. Janie held her hand out and accepted the flowers.
“Their beauty pales in comparison to yours.” Franklin charmed.
“Awww,” Janie replied while Melissa blushed.
Franklin extended his arm, which Melissa happily took. They then proceed out the door and down the stairs. When they reached his silver Rolls-Royce convertible, Franklin opened the passenger door and helped Melisssa in before going around to the driver’s side and getting in himself. A minute later they then sped off into the night.
Melissa was in awe. She had never been so spoiled in her life. They were seated at a table in the fanciest restaurant in town. Franklin had been a perfect gentleman all night. Opening all the doors, proudly walking by her side, and holding her chair when she sat down. He even ordered for her! Melissa was already interested in Franklin before she really knew him, now that they were getting to know each other better she was crushing HARD. She was in awe at his charm, his manners, and she had never felt so special in her entire life. They were in deep conversation, and she was hanging on to every word he said. She was infatuated and would do anything he asked to keep him happy.
“So, like I was telling you before, I don’t mix business with pleasure. You are definitely my pleasure, but the competition is business.”
“What does that mean?” Melissa inquired. “Am I supposed to expect the cold shoulder from you again?”
“Just know, I am into you and once that competition is done, I see nothing getting between us.” Franklin continued.
“That’s not fair.” Melissa started to pout. “I’m so into you. Now that I know you feel the same, I’m just supposed to ignore all that?”
“I’ll make it up to you.” Franklin winked at her and smiled. “I’m sorry, but these are the terms.”
“Terms?” Melissa scoffed. “Like a contract?”
“That’s your word, not mine.” Franklin answered, “But if it makes you feel better, then sure.”
“Well, not really.” Melissa pouted. “So, what else? Are there more terms I need to worry about?”
“Nope.” Franklin grinned. “Not now, at least.”
Melissa froze. She looked inquisitively at Franklin, studying his face. “What does that mean? ‘Not now’?” Melissa took a breath. “Let’s just lay all of this out now. I want to know what I’m getting into.”
Franklin reached his hands across the table, held Melissa’s hands in his, and looked affectionately into her eyes. “Don’t worry about it. You’ve already taken care of the most important one.”
“You mean my hair?” Melissa pulled a hand back as she rubbed her head. “Or rather lack of it.” Franklin nodded. “What about it? You want me to stay this way?”
“Is that a problem?” Franklin answered.
“No.” Melissa stated honestly, “I mean, I suppose not. I thought it could be, but I honestly like it, more than I ever thought possible. I struggled with it so much originally. The thought made me sick to my stomach, but at this point I’m so happy with it.” Melissa was no longer surprised by any of what she said. “Is that all?”
“There’s, ah… there’s just one more thing.” Franklin started.
“Just tell me.” Melissa was all in. She had already sacrificed her hair, which turned out better than she could have imagined, so she was sure she could handle whatever Franklin wanted.
“So, I believe that a woman’s body is a temple. It’s sacred. If we’re together you don’t need to advertise yourself to anyone else.”
“I’m sorry, I’m not really following.”
“You have a tendency to wear very little clothing. I get it. You have a great body. You’re proud of it and want to show it off.” Franklin continued.
“It’s not really that-” Melissa started, but Franklin held his hand up, as he wanted to explain himself further.
“No matter. If you want to be with me. I want you to myself.” Franklin pivoted. “In turn you will never desire for anything. Whatever you want, it’s yours.”
“So, you want me to cover up and wear more clothing, and keep my head shaved.” She smiled. “Yeah, I think I can handle that.”
“Then I see no reason, this can’t be the start of something amazing.” Franklin smiled back and winked at his new muse.
They finished the rest of their meal and dessert. Melissa was happy and looked forward to the end of the competition, when they could start their relationship. She thought Franklin’s demands were interesting, but she was willing to engage and was thankful that she had adapted so quickly to her new look and lack of hair.
Team Uniform
For the first time outside the competition the entire team was in on the daily head shaves. Anna, Annie, Emma, Janie, Jenny, and Katie all continued to put on a show and have it filmed as part of their fundraiser.
Elsa had fully accepted her new look. She knew it was her future and no longer missed her bangs as much as she once did. Jessie was still all about the team and was committed to this look as long as her sister and the rest of the team continued their shaves. Shandra was the only teammate not bald by choice, but she had to admit that even if she wasn’t already involved in the shaves, it would be difficult to resist at this point.
Betty had resigned herself that her long-haired days were over. While she still desired to have hair, she just didn’t like how she looked in the very early stages of hair growth. Plus, she knew how much her new girlfriend enjoyed it. She was eager to please and start the relationship off on the right foot.
Then there was Melissa, who suddenly became the most committed of all. She might have been late to the party but was determined to make up for lost time. To please her future boyfriend would normally have been enough, but she was also doing this for herself as well. And now, no matter what happened with Franklin, she was all in. When she thought back, she couldn’t help but think how silly she had been and wished she had participated in the fundraiser with the rest of the team.
Some of the team had started to practice shaves on each other. Anna and Janie, in particular, liked to practice on each other. Apart from Heather, Katie had the most experience and given that she wanted a distraction now that Evan would be gone soon, she was always willing to help. The future was bright, and everyone was on the same page.
The Client List
Heather was busier than usual. Evan was still training her, but she was growing more and more confident in her skills with each passing day. Best of all, Nikki was there almost as much as she was. Nikki shadowed Lacey and aimed to make this as seamless of a transition as possible. Nikki wanted to look out for her best gal and make sure Heather succeeded as best she was capable. Every client of Evan’s tried to stop by to say a final goodbye, even if they couldn’t get in one final appointment. Most had now become Heather’s clients at this point anyway. At this point the back room belonged to Heather just as much as it did to Evan. Katie was also there as much as she could. She knew her boyfriend would be gone soon, and she wanted to make sure she spent as much time with him as she could.
Nikki wanted Heather to succeed. She made sure that Heather’s schedule would not overwhelm her. She knew what Heather liked and made sure that her day stayed well balanced. She now regularly accompanied Heather to the gym most days after they left the salon. This time was important to Heather, and Nikki wanted to make sure she was there for it.
So Long, Farewell
Before too long the day had arrived. Evan and Lacey were all packed. They each had a couple of suitcases, but most of their belongings had already been sent ahead. Nikki, Heather, Katie, and Lacey were all gathered at the salon one final time.
“Well, for better or for worse, it’s yours now.” Evan stood across from Heather and next to Lacey with his arm wrapped tightly around Katie’s waist. He had just finished up one final shave of Katie’s head, as his final act. He was now officially turning everything over to Heather. He held the keys out in his hand. As Heather was about to take them, Katie reached out and grabbed them. Evan looked over at his girlfriend.
“They’re hers, but it’s not like she’ll be here alone.” Katie wanted to take on some responsibility for the version of Heather that she helped to bring out, but she hoped that being there didn’t trigger negative memories.
“Nope. She’s got me.” Nikki cut in. She stood next to Heather, resting her arm on Heather’s shoulder, and holding the keys that Lacey had given her. “And I’ll be here long after you’re gone, not to mention that I don’t have a competition to focus on.”
“Ladies, no need to argue. I’m sure Heather will be fine and is grateful to have both of you.” Evan grinned. “But it’s time to go, we have a flight to catch.” Evan reached out and gave a final goodbye hug to Heather and Nikki, as did Lacey. Then Evan, Lacey, and Katie exited the salon, leaving Nikki and Heather behind.
“You ready for this?” Nikki asked as she guided her new ‘boss’ back to the private room.
“I guess I have to be.” Heather responded as she walked into HER room and Nikki sat down in the chair. “So, what do you want to do this time?”
Auf Wiedersehen
On the way to the airport, Katie, Evan, and Lacey made a quick stop back at the house to say goodbye to the team, whose lives had forever been transformed. The trio entered the house just as Melissa was coming down the stairs. Evan looked up. “Wow, Melissa. You look amazing. I had heard about this, but to see it…”
“Hey Evan.” Melissa smiled and blushed, while she passed her hand over her bare head. “Oh, this? Can you believe it?” She laughed, while going in for a hug. “I really like it.”
“Well, it suits you.”
“I know!” Melissa exclaimed. “I wish I had done it sooner.”
“So, I take it this look is sticking around for a bit?” Evan smirked.
“Oh, yes!” Melissa nodded. “I don’t even miss my hair at all!”
“Well, that’s great! I’m glad to hear it.”
At that moment, Jessie and Jenny came in from the kitchen. They noticed Evan and ran towards him. “Evan! I can’t believe you’re leaving.” Jenny was first to reach the leaving stylist. “I’ll never be able to thank you enough.” She rubbed her scalp. “Don’t worry, once this competition is over, I’m going back to that bowl cut. I love that style so much.”
“Aww, Jenny, don’t worry about it. You look great like this, as well.” Evan replied.
“I still want to try blonde, though. I never thought I’d be bald first!” Jessie chimed in.
“Don’t worry about it, Jessie. I’ve been working with Heather. If you want to be blonde, she should be able to get you there.” Evan confirmed. “All you girls are in great hands. She has some real skills and is a fast learner.”
“Besides, if she screws it up, you can always just shave it all off again.” Melissa chuckled, rubbing Jessie’s head. Jessie shot her a look.
Betty made her way down the stairs. “I heard the commotion and had to come check it out.” Everyone looked up at the glowing co-ed, whose head glistened.
“Nice to see you, Betty.” Evan remarked.
“Hi, Evan. Why are you taking my best friend away?” Betty confronted.
“Well, um…” Evan was slightly taken aback and not entirely sure how to respond.
“Betty!” Katie scolded her friend. “We’ve been over this. Evan is not taking me away. I’m not leaving yet. I’ll still be here for a few more weeks.”
“Whatever. You’re still leaving.” Betty muttered as she walked away. She reached up and scratched her head.
“You know, she’s the only one of the entire team whose hair I never cut.” Evan remarked.
“You cut mine, though.” Janie replied, as she came in from the living room. “Sorry, I was busy catching up on some work, so I needed a minute.” She reached up to Evan. “You will be missed, Evan. I wouldn’t be where I am without your influence.” She smiled as she rubbed her head, a growing trend as the team was saying goodbye.
“I think most of us can make that statement.” Elsa chimed in as she entered the discussion. “I know my desire to hold onto my bangs lead you to create such a unique style for me. I never knew that my bangs would ultimately be what held me back. If Heather hadn’t accidentally cut them off, I never would have this modeling opportunity awaiting me upon graduation. She never would have been in that spot if you hadn’t initially given me that style.” Elsa reached Evan and gave him a hug. “So, thank you for everything you’ve done for this team.”
“I concur. Sorry I’m late, but I’m glad I didn’t miss you.” Emma walked over to Evan and gave him a hug. “I know you didn’t do this.” She rubbed her bald head, “But I never would have taken this step without you. I can’t thank you enough.”
“Remember when you tried to get me and Anna to wear wigs?” Katie ribbed her captain.
“I’m never going to live that one down, am I?” Emma conceded. “Hey, I can admit when I make a mistake. Who would have expected the turn this team would take back then?” She turned toward Melissa and rubbed her head. “Especially this one.” Melissa grinned.
“Your team has certainly left an impression on me as well. I am glad I could give everyone such a positive experience.” Evan admitted. “I wish we could stay and reminisce longer, but unfortunately, we have a plane to catch. Give my best to the rest of the team.”
Evan gave one final goodbye to the rest of the team that was still there. Then as quickly as they arrived, they headed out the door and into Katie’s car. The team followed to the door and stood on the top step, waving as the car sped off down the path and disappeared over the horizon.
Goodbye
Once at the airport, Katie parked and helped Evan and Lacey with their luggage. Katie stayed with them until the last possible moment.
“Babe, how am I going to get by without you?” Katie hung onto Evan as they embraced.
“You’ll be fine. Just stay focused. Your team is there for you. Help Heather out. We’ll be reunited before you know it.” Evan cradled his girlfriend.
“I’ll call you every day.” Katie refused to let go.
***Final Boarding for Flight 917*** came the voice over the loudspeaker.
Lacey tugged on Evan’s arm.
“Yeah, I know.” Evan acknowledged Lacey. “Babe, I need to go. They just called our flight.” Evan started to pry himself away from Katie.
“I know.” Katie pouted as she gave Evan a final kiss.
She watched as Evan and Lacey walked away towards their flight. Evan gave their tickets to the boarding agent. Just as they were about to head down the path to the plane, Evan turned and waved at Katie. Katie smiled and eagerly waved back. “I LOVE YOU!” Katie shouted, just as Evan and Lacey disappeared.
Katie stayed at the airport. She watched the plane as it closed the doors. She watched the plane as it taxied down the runway. She watched as the plane took off. She followed the plane with her eyes for as long as she could, as it got smaller and smaller in the sky until it disappeared. She stayed for a few more moments, just to make sure the plane didn’t come back. Finally, as a tear started to form and roll down her face, she made her way back to her car and headed back to the house.
Surprise Request
“Are you holding back in any way?” Nikki asked.
“Holding back?” Heather stopped what she was doing to field the question.
“With my hair. If you could do absolutely anything you wanted, what would you do?” Nikki clarified.
“Isn’t that what I do now?” Heather responded.
“Well, I suppose, but…” Nikki paused for a moment. “If I said you could shave it all off, would you?”
“No,” Heather stared at Nikki. “Wait, is that what you want? Are you asking me?”
“Well, it will happen someday, and I feel it getting closer. I know we’ve discussed it and there’s a bit of a timeline in place. I was just curious if you thought that I wanted you to wait.”
“If you tell me that you want me to, I will, but also I have a few other ideas in mind first.” Heather faced Nikki. “Honestly, I’m having fun playing. This is all so new and I kind of feel like I have a bit of freedom to do whatever, so I guess I’m taking a bit of advantage of that.”
“Okay, I’m good with that. I was just curious.” Nikki smiled.
“Time to rinse out the color and then you can see what I did this time.” Heather guided Nikki out of the chair and towards the sink. “I think you’ll like it.”
“Oh, Heather, haven’t you learned yet.” Nikki sat down and leaned her head back in the sink. “I know I’ll like it. No matter what you do, I know it will be amazing.”
Heather rinsed Nikki’s hair. It didn’t take long as there wasn’t very much of it. She led Nikki back to her chair. She picked up the shaving cream, squirted a small amount into her hand, and then walked back towards Nikki. She spread the cream on the lower part of Nikki’s head. Nikki smiled as she realized what Heather was doing.
“So, it IS time for a shave.” Nikki stated.
“Not quite,” Heather began. “Last time I gave you a skin fade. This will be similar, but before I only buzzed you down with the clippers. Now, I finish the job.”
“Heather, you’re amazing.” Nikki was excited about the prospect and liked how she got to keep trying new things.
Heather started to scrape away the cream on Nikki’s neck, leaving nothing but smooth skin behind. She carefully sculpted an outline and was careful to blend the hair seamlessly. “It helps to have such an amazing client who is so open, and willing to try anything.”
Nikki started to laugh. “You know, it’s funny.” If my former self could see me now, she’d be horrified.” She paused to reflect on what she said. “I told you it took two years of discussions with Evan before I went for the chop, right? He had me so prepared and ready. I knew I was going to like it even though it was just such a big change.” She paused for emphasis, “But now… Well, anything goes. I get such a rush just sitting in this chair and not knowing how I’ll look when it’s done. It’s such a thrill because literally anything goes!”
Heather finished up and walked over to the mirror. She turned and faced Nikki. “Okay, you’re all set. Ready to see?”
Nikki got excited, stood up, and closed her eyes. “Okay, I’m ready.” Heather pulled the curtain down. Nikki opened her eyes. “Hot Pink!” Nikki squealed. She immediately reached her hand up and felt the back of her head. She shuddered at the smoothness. “Wow, this feels amazing!” She made her way over to her friend and reached out for a hug. “How you keep topping yourself.”
“I take it you like it, then.” Heather grinned.
“As if that was ever in doubt.” Nikki returned. “I told you. This head is yours and everything you’ve done I’ve enjoyed more than the previous looks. You have my complete and total trust.”
“I hope that’s true, because I have a few crazy ideas that I want to try before I shave it all off.”
“Anything you want.” Nikki assured. “I’m game. I promise.” She let go of Heather and started towards the door. “So, are you ready to hit the gym?”
Every day after they left the salon for the day, Nikki would take Heather to get food and then they would both head to the gym together. It was still mostly just Heather going through her workout, but Nikki would join in on occasion and she made sure to film at least part of Heather’s routine to post it. Heather enjoyed the company and appreciated the encouragement. Heather grew more confident each day and grew more comfortable with the woman she was. As time passed on, the person she started the school year as seemed more and more foreign to her.
