Chapter 9 begins the evening before my trip to New Hampshire, with a visit to Supercuts for a quick trim, where I meet Vicky, a stylist with whom I’ve developed a close rapport over the years. Vicky has become more than just my stylist; she’s someone I look forward to seeing during each visit. Her skill with my short hair is matched only by her ability to keep the conversation flowing, making each appointment feel like a pleasant break in my routine. Vicky, though close to my age, has a youthful appearance, with long, dark hair and a radiant smile that immediately lifts the atmosphere in the salon. She is a passionate reader, particularly of historical romance novels, and we often exchange thoughts on the Tudors and Vikings, as she always brings a new book to each appointment. Her enthusiasm for her literary interests adds a refreshing depth to our conversations.

Vicky’s life experiences are evident in the personal touches she has added to her workstation, most notably the photos of her children displayed on the mirror. She has been married and divorced twice, and these photos serve as a testament to her journey as a mother. Her son, Todd, now lives in Brooklyn and works for the Wall Street Journal, while her daughter, Janet, tragically passed away two years ago from a drug overdose. Despite this heartbreaking loss, Vicky keeps Janet’s memory alive by prominently displaying her pictures, celebrating milestones from her life, and reflecting on the deep bond they shared. The presence of Janet in the photos is bittersweet, as Vicky continues to carry her daughter’s memory with her, a reminder of both the love they shared and the pain of losing her far too soon.

In the past few weeks, I’ve found myself confiding in Vicky about my complicated relationship with Maggie, our surprising reconciliation, and the upcoming wedding. Vicky, always attentive and empathetic, listens closely and asks insightful questions, making me reflect on the deeper emotions surrounding the situation. During one of our conversations, I even considered the idea of inviting her to the wedding, appreciating her support and friendship. However, I quickly dismissed the thought, as our relationship has always been limited to the professional sphere, with no real social connection outside the salon. While the idea felt tempting, I wasn’t sure if it was appropriate or if it would cross the line between our professional and personal boundaries.

Later that evening, Vicky dedicated extra time to my haircut, wanting to ensure everything was perfect before my trip. She even treated me to a hot towel treatment, which was both soothing and indulgent, making me feel completely relaxed. At the end of the appointment, Vicky surprised me by telling me that the service would be free of charge, presenting it as a wedding gift. Her gesture, though simple, felt incredibly generous and kind, leaving me feeling deeply appreciated. As I left the salon, I noticed two teenage girls skateboarding outside a nearby Chipotle, and the thought crossed my mind that it might be fun to invite Vicky to join me in New Hampshire for the weekend. It was a spontaneous idea, driven by the excitement of the trip and the potential for new experiences, which made the notion of inviting her feel like the right thing to do.

The next day, I found myself returning to the salon, unsure of what to expect. To my surprise, Vicky was still there, working with a young boy in her chair. Seeing me come back in, I decided to act on the idea that had come to me the night before and suggested that she accompany me to New Hampshire for the wedding. Vicky’s response was both warm and apologetic, explaining that she had prior commitments and could not leave her colleagues behind during such a busy time at the salon. While her answer was disappointing, she offered to catch up after my trip for lunch, expressing an interest in hearing all about the wedding. She handed me her business card as a friendly reminder, pressing it into my hand with a smile.

Although I already had several of her cards, this gesture felt meaningful and reassuring. It was a simple reminder that our connection extended beyond just the salon. I promised her that I would call once I returned from New Hampshire, grateful for her kindness and the sense of companionship she had offered during our conversations. As I left the salon, I felt a renewed sense of gratitude for the people in my life who have shown me support and understanding, no matter how big or small the gesture. The exchange with Vicky, though brief, emphasized the importance of building connections, especially in times of uncertainty. It reminded me that sometimes, even the smallest gestures can make a big difference in how we navigate life’s challenges.