An Excerpt from Layers the novel
Chapter 6
It was time to harness my energy and potential and take “step two.” Dressed for success, I went on an interview to work at Utica’s premier department store: The Boston Store. They had launched a new concept in their salon that allowed clients to book an appointment in either the American or the French salon. What set the two apart was price, artfulness, savvy, and their distinct décor.
The American salon’s modern interior had brick walls, which added warmth and charm to the attractive preparation area. In this area, a row of walnut cabinets provided a neat, sanitary, and convenient way to keep towels and necessary cleansing and conditioning items within easy reach. The flooring consisted of a combination of complementary carpet and vinyl tile.
Lounge-type shampoo chairs provided comfort for patrons at the sink. The reception area, designed with a matching walnut reception desk and cosmetic bar, also provided exceptional comfort. The American salon afforded moderate pricing, commensurate hairstyling services, and a staff of twenty women, which included a team of stylists, two receptionists, four assistants, and house personnel.
The renowned De La Femme French salon, catered to clients seeking exemplary hairstyling. It was a soothing and intimate Parisian chic world. With its glittering chandeliers, pristine white walls, and pink leopard-print reception chairs, it was unmatched. Adding drama to the spacious central floor was a carousel styling unit, flanked by a semicircle of hair dryers. Throughout the emblazoned styling area of this pampering-hands playground, discriminating women would be seen as they were escorted to manicures, pedicures, and facials. On the way, they might stop to amuse themselves by trying on wigs and postiches.
Privacy was the order of the day to keep hair coloring and permanent wave services inconspicuous. Clients were regaled in spacious discreet rooms for out-and-out seclusion.
Filmy, soft-pink balloon curtains and foiled flock wallpaper added more ambiance. Masterfully colored accents in multiple shades of pink, gold, and white caught your eye. It was an oasis decorated and characterized by arabesques, where women could relish a unique experience of soothing and infinite relaxation. Solidifying that transformation was the enhancing coiffures created by an artistic stylist staff of ten—all women. I was about to change that.
I interviewed for the more prestigious French Room and got the job. Lucky me! Eric? He was still working for Russell and changing the oil on his Triumph every five minutes. Meanwhile, he devised devious ways to get Russell’s daughter Karen in the sack. I knew that was never going to happen. He wasn’t her type. He was a pushover while I played hard to get.
Blessings, dear friends! Have a great Sunday!
