'But first, I need a haircut'
Checking the map again, he spotted a high-end barbershop just a short walk away.
A bell jingled as he stepped through the door, and the cool air carried the scent of cologne and shaving cream.
A man behind the counter looked up. "Do you have an appointment?"
"No."
"You're lucky. Someone just canceled."
'Bullshit,' Terrence muttered to himself.
Place was way too empty.
Shops like this didn't need crowds. They made money by charging way too much for their service that could be done by others for way less.
At least the chair was very comfortable as he sat down.
Soon, a woman with pink hair approached, scissors in hand.
"You can check our catalog." She handed him a glossy magazine.
"No need to ask what I want. Make me look good, and I'll give you a hundred percent tip."
Her eyes sparkled with excitement. "I'll make you so handsome that girls will be chasing you,"
"Good, I have a dinner appointment tonight,"
"A girl?" she asked with a mischievous grin. "She must be pretty important if you're spending this much just to look good."
No answer.
It wasn't like he could just announce that he has a date with his aunt.
Noticing his silence, the woman didn't press further.
She didn't rush. First, she circled around him, checking his jawline and head shape .
Next, she stared at his reflection, trying to imagine what would suit him best.
Not too flashy—clean, short, and something that would work well with his black hair. Maybe a low fade.
"I got it"
After a few minutes, she washed his newly cut hair, applied lotion to his face, massaged his cheeks, and carefully dried everything off.
Finally, styling spray misted over his head as she lifted sections to make him look cooler.
"Done!"
She spun the chair slowly, like she was revealing a newly released product.
"Well?" she asked, leaning on the armrest with a smirk. "Still want that dinner, or heading straight to the hotel?"
Terrence stared at his reflection. For a second, he didn't say anything.
"I actually look—"
"Hot?" she cut in. "Yes. You're welcome."
He raised an eyebrow. "That's a bit too much, don't you think?"
"I've been doing this for four years," she said, flipping a comb between her fingers. "If you walked out of here looking average, I'd quit on the spot."
He chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, I'm satisfied with it, "
She grinned and leaned against the counter. "Told you. These hands don't miss."
"How much is it?"
She grabbed a towel and gave his back a quick swipe.
"Normally? $200 for the package. But since you promised that tip…"
"No problem," From his wallet, five crisp bills slipped into his hand.
Her eyes widened slightly. "Well, someone's feeling generous."
"You earned it." He handed them over without blinking.
She took the cash and guided him toward the door, full of smiles.
"This could really help my savings," she remarked, half-joking, half serious.
Terrence gave her a side look before stepping out.
"Nah, you should enjoy life. Buy something you've wanted for a while. If you've got the cash, maybe travel a bit this year—go see some places."
Surprise flickered in her eyes as she leaned on the doorframe. "Are you hitting on me?"
He shook his head, but there was a serious look in his eyes.
It wasn't the kind that asked for sympathy. It felt more like pity, and it was aimed at her.
"Learn to enjoy and appreciate life more. You only live once." He waved his hand and walked away.
Her playful smile faded as she watched his back.
'Maybe I should actually travel this year... take a break and loosen up a bit,'
She had a feeling she would regret it if she didn't follow his advice.
'I should invite Alice too; she's been too busy at that restaurant.'