Adam stood outside the salon, his hands in his pockets. He didn't want to be here. He tried to will himself to turn around and go home, but he couldn't. His 'girlfriend' Wendy was forcing him to do this. He discovered that he couldn't resist her at all.

The sleek glass doors and modern decor intimidated him. It was obvious that this salon was dedicated to an exclusively female clientele. Except for a stylist or two, there wouldn't be a man inside the salon. He glanced down at her drab obviously masculine shirt and pants, feeling out of place. His short brown short side side-swept crew cut would be transformed into a feminine cut. Wendy had instructed him which style, but Adam couldn't remember. It was her friend Wendy who had insisted on this appointment, booking it for him as a push toward change. It was a change that Adam didn't want.

Taking a deep breath, Adam reluctantly pushed open the door. The soft chime of the bell above announced his arrival. The salon was bright and bustling with activity, the air filled with the scent of shampoo and the hum of hairdryers. Adam approached the reception desk, his nerves evident.

A friendly receptionist greeted him. "Hi there! You must be Adam. Wendy informed us you would be coming. You're right on time. 1:00 on the dot. Welcome! Please have a seat; your stylist, Ava, will be with you shortly."

Adam looked at the clock hanging on the wall, the time was 1:00 and 11 seconds. He did enter at the exact time expected.

Adam nodded, his hands fidgeting. He found a seat and tried to calm his racing heart. He tried to gain control over himself. He looked toward the entrance. He wanted to bolt, but he couldn't bring himself to act.

Ava, a stylish woman with vibrant red hair and a welcoming smile, approached. "Adam? Hi, I'm Ava. It's great to meet you. Wendy has told me so much about you. Come on over and let's get started."

Adam followed Ava to a comfortable chair by the mirror. His stride seemed casual, although in his head, he was resisting every step. He took a deep breath and started to explain, "My friend Wendy booked this for me. She thinks I need a change."

Then he told Ava what he wanted. He redoubled his efforts to resist saying what he must. There was a short hesitation before he told Ava, "I was hoping to have long, wavy hair and maybe tint it copper red?"