Decay - The Matter Maelstrom

Ten || Date Prep

As Raven drives, the conversation flows easily between us. Raven talks about her favorite places in the city, the best spots for coffee, and some of her more memorable missions. It's light, easy, and I'm grateful for it, it takes my mind off the nerves starting to build in my stomach.

"So," Raven says as we pull into the parking lot of a sleek, modern building downtown, "any idea what kind of cut you want?"

I shake my head, feeling a bit out of my depth. "Not really. I just know I want something... different. Something that feels like me."

"Well, you're in luck," Raven says, parking the car and turning to me with a confident smile. "I know just the person to help you figure that out."

We step out of the car and head into the building, which turns out to be a stylish salon with large glass windows and a minimalist, modern interior. The sign outside reads Eden Salon, and as we walk in, I'm immediately struck by how inviting the place is. It's all polished chrome, warm lighting, and soft music playing in the background.

A tall woman with platinum blonde hair and an air of effortless elegance greets us at the door. "Raven! It's been a while," she says warmly, pulling Raven into a quick hug before turning to me. "And this must be Lauren."

"That's me," I say with a smile, trying not to feel too out of place.

"Victoria's the best," Raven assures me. "She's done my hair for years."

Victoria smiles at the compliment. "And now I get to work my magic on you, Lauren. Come on, let's get you set up."

I follow her to a plush chair in front of a large mirror, where she drapes a cape over me and starts running her fingers through my hair, assessing it with a critical but kind eye.

"So, what are we thinking today?" she asks, meeting my gaze in the mirror.

I hesitate, trying to put into words what I'm feeling. "I'm not sure. I just know I want something different, something that feels more like me."

Victoria nods thoughtfully. "I see. How about we go with something shorter, with some layers for movement and texture? It'll bring out your features and give you that fresh start you're looking for."

I glance at Raven, who nods encouragingly. "That sounds perfect," I say, feeling a surge of excitement.

Victoria smiles and gets to work, her hands moving with practiced precision as she starts cutting away the old, shaping something new. The sound of the scissors snipping through my hair is oddly soothing, and I find myself relaxing more with each pass.

"So, how are things with Charles?" Raven asks, her tone casual, but I can see the teasing glint in her eyes through the mirror.

I roll my eyes playfully. "Things are good. Really good, actually."

Raven smirks. "Just good?"

"Okay, fine, they're amazing," I admit with a laugh. "He's... different from anyone I've ever met. He sees me, really sees me, and I didn't think that was possible."

"Charles is one of a kind," Raven agrees, her smile softening. "But so are you, Lauren. Don't forget that."

The sincerity in her voice catches me off guard, and I feel a warmth in my chest that has nothing to do with the salon's cozy atmosphere. Raven has been surprising me lately, showing me sides of herself that I didn't expect — caring, thoughtful, even vulnerable at times. It makes me appreciate her even more.

The conversation continues as Victoria works her magic, and before I know it, she's stepping back, a satisfied smile on her face. "All done. Ready to see the new you?"