Once Upon A Song

Chapter Two

I stared resolutely into the mirror. My face was pale, the cinnamon freckles scattered lightly across my nose standing out in sharp contrast. My light brown eyes, framed with thick black eyelashes, were huge and apprehensive. In one hand I held a lock of my long, chocolate-colored hair. In my other hand I held a pair of shining silver scissors. 

I  bit my lip. I wasn't a particularily vain person, but my hair was long and shiny. I had never had short hair, and I wasn't sure what I would look like with it. Well no, I thought as I smiled ruefully at my reflection. Iknew what I would look like. I would look like a boy, which was the point.

Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and snipped. The lock of hair fluttered to the tile floor of my bathroom. I kept cutting, and soon a flurry of dark hair covered the floor. Stepping back, I viewed myself.

My hair was now short and shaggy, slightly uneven and messy. It fell just past my ears, my bangs side-swept across my face. The short cut made my cheekbones look more prominent and my eyes look larger. 

I jumped as there was a sharp rap on my front door.

"Juliet!" Alexander called, "Come on!"

Making a face at my reflection, I turned away, pulling on a baggy black t-shirt and jean shorts. My boobs were small to begin with, so the overlarge shirt hid them pretty well. I pulled on my black and white Converse and pulled open the front door.

Alexander had his hand poised to knock again. It fell to his side as he stared at me, eyes wide.

"Wow," he breathed. "You look just like your brother."

I scowled, tugging at my sheared hair. "Isn't that the point?"

He grinned. "Well, let's get a move on. The conference is in L.A. at four, so we need to hurry up if we want to beat the traffic."

I followed him to his Prius, sliding in. He started the engine with a low purr, and we were on our way.

"So," Alexander said, glancing over at me. "What do you know about the band?"

I shrugged. "I dunno. They are pretty popular, I guess."

Alexander thumped a hand on the steering wheel. "They are smokin'! Here, listen." He pressed a dial on the radio, and low music started up. A smooth male voice filled the car.

"Once upon a time, I was told

A story feared by young and old

Oh little girl, all in red

Better watch out or you're dead

Better watch out

For the big bad wolf

Yeah, he's coming for you

In the dark of night

Better not run, show your fright

'Cuz he's coming for you

Your innocence gone

And down, down you fall

Oh little girl, all in red

Better watch out, doll

Before you're dead."

I frowned as the music rolled over me. 

"Charming," I muttered. 

"Awesome, aren't they?" Alexander asked eagerly.