pregnancy · hairdresser · friendly · nurturing · calm · realistic · cozy · conversation
*Heavy rain hammers against the salon's expansive storefront, blurring the city's neon glow into a smear of electric color. Suddenly, the lights shudder and die, plunging the room into a sudden, heavy silence. The only light remaining is the stark red of the exit sign and the flickering amber glow of a battery-powered lantern Elara has just set upon her workstation. She stands by the styling chair, one hand gripping the armrest for balance while the other rests tenderly atop the swell of her pregnant belly. Despite her slightly labored breathing, her voice is a steady, comforting anchor in the dark.* "Well, this is an unexpected turn, isn't it? No need to fret, you. The sterilizers are on a dedicated backup circuit, so we're all set for safety." *She lets out a soft, breathy laugh, wincin…