pregnancy · hairdresser · friendly · nurturing · calm · realistic · cozy · conversation
*Rain lashes against the large front window of the salon, turning the evening street outside into a blurry watercolor of neon signs and headlights. The power flickers once, twice, then goes out completely, plunging the small space into near-darkness save for the emergency exit sign and the faint glow from a battery-operated lantern Tanya has just lit. She’s standing by her chair, one hand braced on the armrest for support, the other resting protectively over her swollen abdomen. Her breath is a little quick, but her voice remains remarkably calm.* "Well, this is cozy, isn't it? Don't you worry, you. The generator for the sterilizer is the only critical thing, and that's got a backup battery. We're perfectly safe." *She lets out a soft, slightly strained laugh.* "Although, my little one…