“Thanks for inviting me Alex. I really do look forward to it.”
“Uh....” Alex fumbled trying to come up with a good response.
“Thanks for accepting. See you tomorrow.”
“See you tomorrow,” Jennifer answered.
She hung up the phone and sat back thinking. Alex was interesting. He seemed to treat everyone the same. And he was certainly intelligent, but talked very little at their lunch gatherings. She had suspected, but the telephone conversation confirmed, that he was somewhat shy with women. Nothing wrong with that. He'll be a pleasant change from Daryl who was very forward and frequently pushy in an unpleasant way. Jennifer thought.
She got up from the chair and went to her bedroom where she removed her work clothes and put on an old pair of jeans and tattered sweatshirt. She had no idea at this point how much of a mess she might generate as she learned to use her new shaver. She had read the instruction that came with the shaver and the label on the tube of shaving gel. She should be prepared. After a moment of hesitation she dispensed some gel into her palm and applied it to the crown of her head and spread it around. It didn't cover much of her head. She squeezed a larger quantity into her hand and spread it around the back and one side. A third application to the opposite side and to the top and front of her head had finally produced a roughly uniform coating of the gel shaving cream. Now I know about how much is going to be needed, she thought. She knew that the shaver was fully charged. She took it out of its charging stand and looked at it critically.
The moment of truth had arrived. OK. Get on with it. Finally she turned it on. She was not surprised at the sound. The clerk had warned her and she had tested it briefly yesterday. She raised it to her right temple and slowly pushed it upward through the gel. She repeated the action twice more going higher and wider each time. Turning off the shaver she explored the shaved area. Not bad. Maybe I can do better. Turning on the razor again she applied a little more pressure as she pushed it upward over the same area. A second exploration. A lot better. I think I can handle this. With growing sureness she continued up to the top of her head then began working her way to the back. It was not long before she reached the left side and found it to be awkward at best. Eventually she managed it using both hands. The back followed, this time with considerable use of the fingers of her left hand to help guide her right over the areas that had been missed.
Finally it was done, not to her entire satisfaction, but good enough. She felt confident that she would be able to do an adequate job and that she would become more adept with practice.
The shaver had a self cleaning feature which she activated following the instructions in the booklet. A wet washcloth cleaned off the remaining gel and a soft towel got her head dry in preparation for a generous application of a soothing moisturizer.
Jennifer smiled as she survey herself in the mirror. She felt a sense of satisfaction that she had mastered the use of the shaver. It had contributed to a growing sense of being at ease with her bald head. Tomorrow will be a good day, she thought as she cleaned the sink.
Jennifer rolled over to turn off her alarm. She was momentarily blinded by the sunlight that streamed in from the small window by her bed. It was that time of year again. For a few weeks the morning sun would find its way between two building and illuminate her bed for an hour or so. She lay still for a few minutes letting the sun bath her face and head. There was only a faint amount of warmth in it, but she imagined she could feel it. The brightness was also comforting. It would be gone soon not to return until early spring. She sat up, stretched and put her palms with their interlaced fingers on the back of her head, the better to stretch her shoulders. Her hands registered the soft coolness of her bare scalp which she acknowledged with a mental flash of approval. Maneuvering her feet and legs to the edge of the bed, she sat up allowing her feet to rest atop the slippers that lay where they had landed the night before. A little fumbling with her feet and they were in the slippers and beginning to regain the warmth that they had felt while under the bed covers. Standing up she reached for the nondescript faded blue fleecy robe hanging from the back of the nearby chair. The aroma of brewing coffee emerging from her little kitchen and wafting through the open door of her bedroom drew her attention as she breathed deeply savoring it.
In the kitchen the coffee maker chimed its readiness just as she arrived. Pouring a cup, she added a little sugar before taking a sip of the hot brew. It cooled a bit while she searched in her fridge for the can of mixed fruit that she had opened the previous day. The fruit was soon consumed and she shook cereal into the bowl and poured milk over it.
Ten minutes later her comparatively leisurely breakfast over, she hurried to her bedroom, laid out her clothes for the day and quickly showered. She had to repress the urge to stand in the shower to let the warm water cascade over her head. After a brief moment of pleasure she stepped out and turned off the water. She had poured a second cup of coffee and sugared it. Now she took hurried sips as she got dressed, applied her makeup and gathered her shoulder bag with the papers that she had intended to read the previous evening but had not. She checked around the room to see if she might have missed something. Seeing nothing she exited her apartment and danced down the two flights of stairs rather than wait for the slow elevator.
The air was pleasant and she walked briskly toward George and Millie's barber shop, eager to experience the pleasure of having Millie shave her. She arrived a few minutes before eight thirty, tried the door and found it unlocked.
“Hi Millie. Thanks so much for doing this for me.”
“No problem Jennifer. George and I are happy to help you out. Have you tried your new shaver yet?”
“I did - last night. It's going to be OK. I'll get better with practice.”
“How about your work. Any problems there.”
“Not really. A couple of the guys thought that I had over-reacted and of course most of the women find it hard to believe that I would actually shave my head just because I wanted to get back to my real self, but they accepted it pretty quickly. By the end of the day they were rather nonchalant about it.”
“That's reassuring. I was worried that you might get a lot of negative reaction.”
“Actually there wasn't much of a negative reaction and some of the others supported me which put an end to it. One of the guys from the Agency across the hall called me last night and asked me out.”
“That was fast.”
“I think he's always liked me, but wasn't about to say anything as long as I was going with Daryl. He's a little shy. He's actually a very nice guy - smart and hard working too.”
Millie had caped Jennifer and applied a hot towel to her head followed by hot lather. She stropped her razor while giving the lather a couple of minutes to do its work.
“Did you accept?”
“Oh, sure. Like I said he's a nice guy. We've always gotten along well when we worked together. He might turn out to be a little like George. I won't know for sure until I've been out with him a few times.”
“I hope it works out. You must have done a pretty good job last night. It's definitely not like I would expect it to be after twenty four hours.”
“It felt a little strange doing it myself, but after a while I began to catch on to it. I'd never used a electric shaver before – just a disposable one.”
Millie was nearly through with Jennifer's shave by now. She was checking to see if it was smooth and re-shaving a few spots.
“They're very different, that's for sure. I'm about done – Just need to clean you up and put on some of this special lotion. You have something like this don't you? If not you should buy some.”
“I have some. I bought some make up to give it a little color too. I have some with me.”
“Good. I'll put in on for you.”
“Thanks Millie. I do have a little problem getting it even on the back of my head. I'll be glad when it develops some color.”
“When will we see you again?”
“Saturday afternoon I think. I'd like to have you do it so that it will be good for my date with Alex.”
“That sounds like a good idea. And you're all done Jennifer.”
Later that day during one of Jennifer's infrequent breaks from her work, she walked to the reception area to pick up some material that had come in over the fax. At that moment Daryl walked in.
When he saw and then recognized her he stared at her in shock.
“Well, hello Daryl. You have an appointment with Evan don't you. I'll call him.” Barbara greeted him.
“Uh, thanks. Jenny?” Daryl said tentatively.
“Hi Daryl. How are things with you?”
“What the hell happened to you?”
“Why, nothing of consequence Daryl. Maybe you're referring to this,” Jennifer said putting a finger on her head.
“This! This! What the crap are you talking about! Are you out of your mind?”
“Not at all Daryl. I just got rid of some old baggage that I didn't need any more. I'm feeling much better and more like myself. So how are you doing.”
“I think you're crazy. It's a good think we split.”
“Oh, I agree, not about the crazy part, but the splitting part. I'm relieved that it happened. You did me a big favor. Thanks. Have a nice day and enjoy yourself. I need to get back to work.”
Jennifer picked up her papers and walked back to her office while Daryl stared after her momentarily speechless.
“She's gone completely off the deep end hasn't she?” Daryl said to Barbara.
“Not that anyone around here has noticed. She went with us to lunch yesterday and today. She was relaxed and quite cheerful and upbeat. “
“Didn't anyone ask her why she was bald?”
“Of course. And she explained it quite convincingly – to everyone's satisfaction. I think you'd better go see Evan. You're already late.”
Jennifer had anticipated encountering Daryl at the office at some time or another. He worked for an agency across town that generally made use of the Guardian Title and Trust Company. So she had been prepared for the encounter. She smiled, quite happy with how she had handled it.
The remainder of the week was uneventful. Jennifer found that she was becoming comfortable with her bald head, and her coworkers were rapidly adjusting to it as well.
After her dinner on Friday evening she called Tony to ask her about something that had crossed her mind several times since Monday when it was mentioned in passing while she was getting her first shave.
“Tony, it's me again.”
“Are you doing OK. Did something go wrong with you and Alex?”
“Nothing like that. We're fine. He seems like an old friend. No, it's about that Brazilian that you got about a year ago. You told me you had a little problem at first. We've never talked about it. How did that work out?”
“That's right. We usually talk about everything. When I broke up with Tim I was upset and never thought about it again.” Tony laughed. “It took a while, but it's done. It's great. I love it. I'm as bare as a baby's bottom and I love it.”
“What was it like? I thought you said it was pretty uncomfortable?”
“The first treatment wasn't much fun. They didn't use enough skin deadener stuff. I got through it, but I wasn't too happy. They assured me that they would get it right for my first follow-up treatment. My technician said that I should have taken some ibuprofen first. She was right. It wasn't a problem at all the next time. They apologized, but that wasn't much comfort. It took two more treatments after that to get it all gone. That was six months ago. I've noticed a little bit of hair growth and I may go back for one more treatment. They said it sometimes takes up to six treatments to do the job.”
“How expensive is it?”
“It's not cheap, but I think it's worth it. I used to get it waxed, and that was seriously uncomfortable and it's not cheap either.”
“OK, I think I'm ready to try it. Where did you get it done. You told me but I don't remember the name.”
“It's called Ultimate Image. It's very popular and I think they did a good job except for telling me to take ibuprofen before a treatment.”
“Well I'll know about that even if they forget.”
“Since you haven't talked to them you don't know all the options. I got what they call a total brazilian.”
“What's the difference.”
“Well it includes everything all the way around your bottom to the top of your crack and every nook and cranny.”
“A real baby's bottom, right?” Jennifer laughed.
“You've got it. I've been very happy with it.”
“Sounds like just what I want.”
“I'm sure you'll like it when it's done. It's a very good feeling especially when you're making love.”
“I've heard that from some other women. I'm going to call them tomorrow and make an appointment. I like the idea of being smooth all over. I may get my legs and underarms done too.”
That's actually a good idea. I've been thinking of doing my underarms. Let me know how it goes with your consultation. I think it'll work out well for you.”
“I'd better go. I have a ton of things to take care of. I've neglected my place for a week and it's in serious need of some attention.”
“OK. Enjoy yourself with Alex.”
“I think I will.”
Jennifer sat in thought for a while then erupted in a whirlwind of cleaning, straightening, vacuuming and dusting of her apartment. Two hours later she collapsed with a sigh and a satisfied feeling.
It was two in the afternoon when Jennifer arrived at George and Millie's barbershop. As she walked in she had a small panic attack as she saw that four chairs were occupied.
“Hi Jennifer,” Millie greeted her.
“Hi Millie. I didn't think about how busy you'd be on Saturday.”
“Don't worry. There's only one ahead of you. The others are waiting for George.”
“That's a relief. I have to pick up some appetizers and stuff before I go back.”
Jennifer smiled as she sat down. She could see the two twenty something men struggling to keep from staring at her. After what seemed an interminable wait, but was only 20 minutes, Millie called her.
“OK Jennifer. I'm ready for you.”
“I guess I'm a little anxious Millie. It seemed like a very long wait, but it was only twenty minutes.”
“Isn't it always like that on a first date with a new guy?”
“Well, not always. I think Alex is a little different. I've known him as long as I've known Daryl. By the way, I saw Daryl on Wednesday when he came by for a meeting with my boss Evan. He was completely blown away. He couldn't believe it when he saw me. I managed to stay calm.”
“Good for you.”
Millie had already put the hot towel around her head and was now spreading hot lather over it and massaging it with her fingers.
“I'm going to use a safety razor with four blades and shave it against the grain so it will stay smooth a little longer.”
“That sounds good. I would like it to stay smooth as long as possible today. I had to go through all kinds of contortions so that George could shave it against the grain.”
“George! You didn't?”
“Sure I did. It was nice and smooth when I finished too.”
“It did stay smooth for quite a while.”
“There is that I suppose. You're not nearly as pasty white as you were on Monday.”
“I know, but I'm still going to use that makeup for a few more days, maybe longer. It does give my head a nice glow.”
“It does doesn't it. I though it looked very nice yesterday when I did it for you.”
Millie had started on the left side of Jennifer's head shaving upward in front of her ear, removing any hint of hair. A second pass upward beside the first left a wide path of smooth skin. Bending Jennifer's ear down she went around it, followed by another upward pass. She continued this procedure behind her ear, but going upward only to the top of her head. Every two passes she would rinse the razor in the large bowl of warm water behind her. Fifteen minutes of meticulous shaving had left Jennifer with only a cap of white foam, which Millie proceeded to remove starting in the front on the left side. She proceeded slowly, carefully overlapping the strokes. When she had removed the last of the foam she felt the crown area, dampened it and shaved from right to left and then a short amount from left to right. After testing and re-shaving a few areas she put down the razor.
“It's done Jennifer. You're looking quite good with it shaved smooth like that. I'm really getting to like it.”
“Thanks Millie. It kind of grows on you I think. Once you get your mind around the idea of a woman not having any hair you can begin to appreciate it I think.” Jennifer said this last in response to the second of the men who had been waiting for George and the woman her own age who had come in and taken a seat opposite Millie's chair. Both had been riveted by the sight of Jennifer being shaved.
“That's about right. I'll put on some of this soothing lotion and you'll be done.”
With the lotion applied and her smooth bald head given one final polish with a soft towel Jennifer paid and sauntered to the door.
“I think I'll be coming back regularly on Saturday Millie. I like having you do it for me.”
“Thanks. I enjoy doing it.”
It was now nearly three O'clock, but Jennifer concluded that she had plenty of time to do her shopping, return to her apartment and be ready for Alex's arrival, that is if she didn't waste much time. She walked smartly toward the shopping center where she could get some excellent appetizers and hors d'oeuvres at the deli shop there as well some sweets at the bake shop. With her mind filled with thoughts of what she wanted and anticipation of her evening with Alex she was almost completely unaware of the heads swiveling to get another look at the attractive woman with a bald head walking confidently and purposely down the block.
Inside the shopping center she became more aware of the attention that her baldness drew, but she found that she could put it out of her mind. She went into the deli and waited patiently in front of the display case which held samples of the extensive variety of appetizers and hors d'oeuvres that they offered. She picked out several and ordered six or eight of each while the clerk struggled not to look at Jennifer's head and to keep her mind on what Jennifer was telling her. A few minutes of confusion followed, to Jennifer's amusement, but it was soon rectified and she paid and departed. At the bake shop the scene was repeated. Jennifer remained all business and was soon leaving with her sweet goods and walking briskly back to her apartment.
“I certainly do draw attention. I think I'll stop noticing it after a while, Jennifer thought as she turned the corner and headed up the two blocks to her apartment.
At quarter to six, having showered, dressed and put on her makeup, she put the hors d'oeuvres that needed heating in the oven. She suspected that Alex would arrive precisely at six. Sure enough at one minute past six the chime sounded. She pressed the intercom switch.
“Hello, who is it?”
“Hi Jennifer. It me, Alex.”
“Hi Alex. Come on up.” Jennifer said as she pressed the button to unlock the door to the apartment building.
Moments later there was a knock on her door and she hurried to open it.
“Hi, Alex. Come on in.” She reached out to take his hand as he stood and looked at her.
“You look really great,” he said as he took her proffered hand.
“Thank you kind sir. It's nice to be appreciated. Hang up your coat and come on back to the kitchen. I have a wine cooler waiting and the hors d'oeuvres should just about be ready.”
“I brought a very nice Beaujolais. I didn't think we'd want anything heavy.”
“It's perfect Alex. I hope you like these,” Jennifer said as she put a serving platter filled with the hors d'oeuvres and appetizers on the small coffee table and gave Alex a plate. He had already poured two glasses of wine.
The chatted about nothing in particular enjoying the excellent wine that Alex had chosen and the snacks that Jennifer had provided. They had finished a good portion of the hors d'oeuvres and Jennifer put her sweet baked goods in the oven to warm them up. When they sampled them a little while later they seemed to compliment the Beaujolais exceptionally well Jennifer thought.
Jennifer began to realize that she was finding Alex's presence calming. The palpable tension that she had always felt with Daryl – as though something was just on the verge of exploding - was not present. She felt relaxed and herself. In it's own way the feeling was exhilarating.
“I think we'd better start thinking about getting a taxi to the theater. It was almost sold out yesterday when I checked and I don't want to be trapped in the crowd.”
“Give me five minutes to put these in the dishwasher and put on my lipstick and I'll be ready.”
Alex immediately picked up the plates and tray and took them to the kitchen. Once again Jennifer had a little jolt of insight. Daryl would never have done that. He had always expected to be catered to.
The walked hand in hand to the main street where they could expect to be able to hail a cab in a minute or two. The remainder of the evening seem to go by much too fast for Jennifer. They talked during dinner, disagreed and even argued a point or two, but there was little heat in it. They accepted each other's points of view and and laughed at their differences. Alex's nature seemed to complement Jennifer's or so it seemed to her.
When they arrived back at Jennifer's apartment, she realized that Alex didn't expect to be invited in. He seemed content to let her let him know when that time had come.
“Alex. I had a wonderful time. I don't mean to be pushy, but I look forward going out with you again.”
“I'm glad. I thoroughly enjoyed being with you. If there's something special you'd like to do let me know. Otherwise I'll come up with something. Would next Saturday be OK?”
“Absolutely. Whatever you come up with will be great.”
More than two months had passed and Jennifer had begun to develop strong feelings for Alex – feeling that were very different from the ones she had had for Daryl. Despite her original assessment of how she thought Alex was going to react he had not responded to her hints. She had given little hints earlier, but the last two weekends her hints that he could spend the night with her had been rather obvious. Still he had seemed oblivious to them. Finally she called him on Saturday afternoon a few hours before he would be arriving. She was in for another surprise.
“Hi Alex.”
“Hi Jennifer. What's up?”
“I want to ask you something.”
“OK. What is it?”
“It's about us.”
“Us? Is something wrong? You know that I think you're terrific and that I've never met anyone that I like remotely as much as I like you.”
“Yes, but... You know, you've never acted like.... I mean you've never seemed like you wanted to stay over or anything.” Jennifer fumbled.
“I'm not going to be pushy. I figured that when you're ready you'll let me know.”
“I'm ready Alex. Would you like to stay over this weekend,” Jennifer blurted out.
“I'd love that more than anything in the world. I love you Jennifer.”
Jennifer began to cry.
“This is so silly Alex. I love you too.”
As she said those words, she realized that she had never said them to Daryl or anyone else other than her parents and grandparents.
When Alex arrived he kissed her passionately and held her for a long time as he fondled her head and nuzzled her neck before they finally separated.
“You're going to make me cry again.”
“That's OK. I could cry a little myself, but they would be good tears.”
He had brought an overnight bag with a change of clothes. Jennifer showed him her bedroom and where he could put his bag. She had actually showed him her bedroom a week ago. It had been what she thought was the strongest possible hint. Now she knew better.
As they stood in the bedroom her first thought was that maybe he'd want to make love right now rather than do what they had planned. She wasn't quite sure what to make of his seeming lack of overt eagerness. It perplexed her. All the other men she had know had wanted to have sex the first date they had gone on – well not counting her first boyfriend when she was fourteen. Still she could sense ardent desire just beneath the gentle and warm exterior.
The evening progressed almost dreamily for Jennifer. Alex was more attentive than usual if that was possible. The small Italian restaurant where they ate featured a tenor from the nearby music school who sang Neapolitan songs, something that she loved. The movie that they saw was entertaining if not quite the masterpiece that had been advertised. And Alex remained as solicitous as he had ever been. She was so engaged with Alex that she was totally unaware of the number of stares and double takes that her bald head drew.
When they returned to her apartment, Alex opened the half bottle of Eiswein that he had purchased and brought with him. He served tiny glasses of the incredibly fragrant and sweet fruity nectar along with some tarts that Jennifer had purchased earlier. She held his hand as they talked quietly about things they might do in the future.
They sat together for a while before Alex put away the wine and came back to take Jennifer's hand and escort her into her bedroom where he held her for long minutes as they kissed, gently then passionately then gently again. Afterwards he slowly and lovingly began to undress her. Jennifer had never had such a rapturous and sensual experience. She sensed urgency, but it was mostly a muted background to the gentle exploration of Alex's hands as he touched her here and there while he removed her clothes. When she was down to her panties he stopped and began slowly to undress himself. On impulse Jennifer took over and helped him undress. When he was clad only in his briefs she stopped. Alex took her in his arms and kissed her ardently before he helped her remove her panties to reveal her perfectly smooth pubic area, the result of her second laser depilation session two weeks earlier. He touched it and then explored its smoothness. Alex removed his own briefs and helped Jennifer into bed and slipped in beside her.
For Jennifer time seemed to move at a languorous pace as Alex's hands explored her body, caressing it and arousing it to heights of excitement. Massage oil that he had brought with him made a back rub simultaneously sensuous and relaxing. When it proceeded to her waist and then her buttocks, sensuousness prevailed. Her excitement continued to grow as he fondled her breasts and then took her nipples in his mouth causing her to gasp. When he gently massaged her mons she felt her excitement reach a level she had never before experienced. She reached urgently for him as she moaned softly and began to pant. He continued to stroke her pubis before finally stimulating her clitoris delicately.
Jennifer cried out, “Now Alex, NOW.”
As they coupled and Alex held her head in both hands she experienced an overwhelming orgasm accompanied by a prolonged exhalation of her breath in a great moan of release. Still her excitement had not been sated and it began to build again as she eagerly engaged with Alex to bring him to climax, thrusting her hips up and forward in rhythm with his thrusts. Unexpectedly she felt her body rise to another peak of excitement and she experienced a second intense orgasm just before Alex convulsed with the intensity of his climax.
Jennifer wanted him to stay in her. She squeezed her legs and thighs together knowing that he was spent and could not maintain his erection. She would hold him as long as possible.
“Oh my god Alex, that was incredible. Hold me tight.”
Alex held her and continued to fondle her head.
“You're more wonderful than any women I would have imagined. I'm the luckiest man in the world,” Alex told her.
Finally they relaxed and Jennifer found Alex's weight on her body making it hard to breath. After a moment they rolled onto their sides where they continued to clasp each other.
Jennifer was stunned by her own reaction. Alex's prolonged foreplay had triggered something in her that she didn't know existed. It was a revelation.
Long minutes of quiet talking and gentle fondling interrupted occasionally by prolonged periods of kissing and hugging led eventually to a feeling of satisfying release for both of them. Within minutes of settling her head on his chest Jennifer was in a deep and contented sleep. Alex had preceded her into his own sleep, the profoundly gratified and untroubled sleep of one whose patience and generosity had brought to fruition a union that he had dreamed of achieving.
The next morning Jennifer woke quietly, hardly daring to believe that last night had been real and not a dream. She stretched out her hand and found Alex's hip. Sometime during the night she had slipped off his chest and ended sleeping close to where she always slept. She worked her way over and cuddled up to his back nuzzling his shoulder. A moment later he reached back and put his hand on her hip. In a few minutes they found their ardor undiminished and once again they satisfied each other with unalloyed joy if not with quite the intensity of the night before.
“You're pretty special you know, Alex Wilson.”
“You're not just special, you're unique,” Alex responded as they lay in the bed relaxing after their morning exertion.
“Uniquely dumb not to notice you for all that time.”
“No. That happens to all of us. My Mother used to point out to me that the biggest and reddest apples were the least tasty, but they were the ones that people bought. Then she would choose some of the ugliest apples and take them home. Later I learned that they were one of the few apples that would last and get better with time, just like a good wine. Now there are some good looking apples that are good and last too. I wasted a few years making bad choices until I met you. You're like the best wine that I've ever had, absolutely wonderful now and sure to get better as the years go by.”
“You're a poet too!” Jennifer laughed and kissed him. “What would you like for breakfast.”
“What about those great waffles you claimed you could make?”
“Good choice. I'll fix them. I have about half a box of the mix left. Want to take a shower with me first.”
“Now why didn't I think of that! Last one in is a rotten apple.”
Laughing like little school kids they jostled with each other trying to get to the shower and get in. Finally with the water cascading over them they enjoyed each others bodies in yet another way.
“You know if we had a phone book in here, you'd be just about the right height. Making love in the shower might be rather enjoyable.”
“You, sir, are incorrigible, but highly imaginative and very tempting,” Jennifer laughed.
“And you Madam are full of surprises - like this.” Alex ran his hand down to her smooth pubis which he cupped gently.
“You noticed, did you. I've been getting laser treatments. My second one was just two weeks ago. Do you like it?”
“Like seems a little weak to express my impression. It's hard to describe how pleasurable it was to encounter only soft smooth skin when I first explored the area.”
“That's pretty much how it felt to me to. Having you touching me there really set me off. I'm sure it enhanced my feeling, although it was you who caused it to happen.”
“Is it permanent? I know next to nothing about it.”
“Yes and no. I have several more treatments to go through and I should end up with at least eighty percent of the hair permanently gone and the rest much finer and softer.”
“I'm glad you did it – for yourself, not for me although It's certainly a terrific bonus for me.”
“That makes two of us. I think we've wasted enough water for today. Help me dry off and I'll fix those waffles.”
“In the nude?”
“You'd like that?”
“Actually yes.”
“OK, then it's the two of us,” Jennifer laughed. “Go turn up the heat a couple of degrees so we don't get a chill.”
“I can do that. Would you like for me to shave you after we've cleaned up breakfast.”
“You want to shave me?”
“I thought it might be more enjoyable than doing it yourself and I'd like to do it for you. It would give me pleasure too.”
“It would be great for me, especially if my barber is nude.”
“I can accommodate that request if my client is also nude.”
“Sounds like a deal.”
Waffles made and eaten they retired to the bathroom where a chair from the kitchen table served as their barber chair.
“If you don't mind me giving you a little advice...?” Jennifer said tentatively.
“Not at all. Go ahead.”
“You need to shave against the grain to get it really smooth.”
“That makes sense. That's how I shave myself.”
“Of course. I hadn't thought of that.”
“I bet you use a hot towel too.”
“Not all of the time. Sometimes I'm in a hurry. Not today though.”
“Hot towel coming up,” Alex laughed.
How towel removed and shaving gel applied, Alex began shaving Jennifer's head while they carried on a lively if meandering conversation. Once at just the opportune moment Jennifer reached out and took Alex's penis in her hand. That had the effect of stopping the action.
“It's kind of hard to concentrate when you do that, although I'm not complaining.”
“I couldn't resist the temptation. You've done more for me than I believed possible. I'll forebear for now though.”
“I think we're going to have many opportunities from now on. You've made me exceedingly happy.”
Alex continued his progress over Jennifer head. He applied a moderate pressure as he ran the razor up the back of her head, then tested the area before proceeding to a parallel run.
“It feels pretty good. Tell me if I should be using more pressure.”
“Hum, it feels about the same as when I do it, but it's a lot more sensuous with you doing it. Maybe that's because I can't help getting turned on with little Alex being so close.”
“Try not to lose it just yet. I'm almost finished.”
Alex continued his traversal of Jennifer's head with her razor. He checked with his fingers a few placed and concluded that he was done.
“I'm done Jennifer. Why don't you check it and see if I've left some places too rough.”
After a brief examination of her head Jennifer declared “You did just fine Alex.” You really like me with my head shaved don't you?”
“I'd love you with your hair long, short or gone, but I have to admit I like it best the way it is now – top and bottom.”
“Thanks for being honest with me. I guess we'd better get dressed. We have some fun things planned for today.”
“I've been having so much fun already that I'd forgotten about them.”
Without a word being said Jennifer stood up and reached out to Alex. Their two nude bodies seemed to meld into one as they twined their arms around each other.
“Thank you.”
For what”
“For not pushing me and letting me figure things out for myself and then giving me the greatest gift I've ever received.”
“Hello Jennifer. Time for your next session I see.”
“That's right, Jackie. I've noticed some growth for the past week. It's been six weeks since my last session. I need to get cleaned up again.”
“We can take care of that. Come on back.”
“I'll be happy when it's done, although I suppose there'll always be a little growth.”
“I think you're going to be surprised. Most women have a lot more re-growth at this stage that you do. It looks like you're one of those women who get very little return growth after four or five treatments.”
“I hope that's true.”
“I'm curious Jennifer. You had your head shaved when you first came in and it's been quite a while. Are you planning to keep it shaved.”
“I like it shaved. I think I'd feel odd if I let it grow. Alex likes it too. So I'm going to keep it shaved. It's takes a little time to shave it in the morning, but not as much as I used to spend taking care of my hair. It's a little cool in this kind of weather, so I have to wear something when I go out, but that's the only downside that I've found. Of course I get a lot of funny looks too. Can we take a break. I'm getting a little uncomfortable.”
“Sure. I'm about half way done already. Don't you find it awkward sometimes?”
“Not that I've noticed. Well, sometimes people do have a hard time concentrating on what they're supposed to be doing. Of course I get a lot of double takes when people realize they're looking at a bald woman. I'm used to it and barely notice most of the time.”
“I wish I had the nerve to try it. I'm not sure I could be as nonchalant and self confident as you.”
“It's all in your mind. You can do it once you set your mind on it. I have a question for you.”
“Shoot.”
“Have you ever done some ones head?”
“Are you thinking of having your head done?” Jackie asked incredulously.
“The thought did cross my mind. It's just a thought, but it made me curious.”
“Actually we do have a price listed for doing heads. I've never done it on anyone, but one of the other operators has done in on a couple of guys. They were already going bald and decided to get the fringe removed so they wouldn't have to bother shaving it.”
“Well, who knows. Maybe someday I'll come back and get it done,” Jennifer laughed.
“I have to admit that I think you look very sweet and quite charming with your head shaved. I never imagined that I would say that to a woman.”
“I've had several women tell me that they think I look great and they would love to try it, but they don't have the nerve. Maybe someday I'll meet another women who keeps her head shaved. OK, I guess I'm ready to continue.”
“You'll need to spread your legs out a little more. OK, that does it for the front. Let me adjust things so you can turn over and I can get the rest.”
“This is the worst part of getting it done. I feel so ridiculous like this.”
“I know. I felt the same way when I had it done.”
“I'll be glad when I'm through. I plan to do my underarms and legs later.”
“That's a good idea. There, you're done.”
“Good. By the way. You do have a male technician don't you?”
“Two actually. Why do you ask?”
“I think Alex may be coming in for a Brazilian.”
“That's funny. We're actually getting quite a few guys coming in for that. We used to do chests and backs, but total Brazilians seem to be getting popular for guys.”
That's what I heard. Thanks for doing me Jackie. I'll probably see you again in two months or so for my underarms and legs.”
“OK. Just checkout at the desk up front.”
A year had passed since their first date. They had become increasingly certain that they had found their soul mates. So much so that two months earlier they had decided to find a larger apartment with a full sized kitchen where they could enjoy their life together. As things stood they alternated between their two separate apartments on a regular basis.
It was Saturday and they had no outings planned for the day or Sunday - one of the few weekends in the past year that they had spent together just relaxing.
“Alex, I have a little work I'd like to do on that big contract. There were a few items that seemed rather odd and I would like to do some research on what it might be about. It shouldn't take more than a couple of hours.”
“Sure, go ahead. I'll take care of the Kitchen stuff. Didn't you say you needed to pick up some things at the grocery store?”
“I thought we'd go together, but it makes sense for you to get them. I wrote everything down. I don't think it will be too heavy, but you might want to take my little grocery cart just in case.”
“There's a small wine shop in that mall isn't there?”
“It's at the far side right beside the Deli.”
“I'll take the cart and your two grocery bags. It'll probably take me most of the two hours you need.”
“Here's the list.”
“Thanks. I'm almost ready to go.”
“What else do you need?”
“This.” Alex pulled her toward him, held her in an embrace with one hand holding her head and kissed her slowly and thoroughly.
“That's for allowing me to leave you to face the world alone, not knowing the dangers I may encounter, such as not finding the perfect tomato, and not getting back in time to rescue you from the computer demon.”
“My knight! Go! Guide your trusty cart and bring back the magic tomato. I will weep bitterly at your absence. Go, Go my brave one! Fear not. I am pure of heart and no daemon dare assail me.”
A few giggles and several kisses later Alex was on his way.
Hours later they sat enjoying the last bits of chocolate mousse along with a glass of wine. They had been talking comfortably for a while when Alex turned quiet and introspective.
“Jennifer, the past year has been the most wonderful time of my life. I'm sure you know that, but I just needed to say it again.”
“I knew that. It's been the best year in my life as well. You've given me more happiness than I imagined was possible.”
“Jennifer...” Alex hesitated, obviously trying to say something. He reached out to take her hand. “Jennifer, I love you. I think we should get married. “Will you marry me?”
“Of course I'll marry you,” Jennifer blurted out, not realizing what she was saying until she registered the words. She burst into tears and simultaneous laughter. “I love you. I'll marry you!”
That evening they enjoyed a night of love making that was the equal of their first encounter, but they were too engrossed to make the comparison.
Sunday morning after another round of love making they got up to shower together, a practice that had become a regular part of their weekend routine. Jennifer enjoyed the way Alex caressed her permanently smooth skin and he looked forward to the attention she gave his privates which had also become permanently smooth over the last several months.
“I'd like to shave you this morning after breakfast.”
“I'd never turn down that offer.”
During breakfast they drifted into discussing several things particularly their search for an apartment.
“Are there any apartments for us to look at today?”
“A couple, but they don't sound very promising.”
“This is getting ridiculous Alex. We've got to find something.”
“I know. I wonder if we should consider some of those condos a little farther out on the Green Line.”
“Maybe that is a better option, especially if we're going to get married. You did ask me to marry you didn't you? I've been afraid to mention it for fear I was just dreaming?”
“No way Jennifer. I've never been more serious in my life.” I want us to be married, but mostly I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”
“Even if I'm bald the whole time?”
“Even if you're bald. I think you're wonderful just the way you are, but you'd still be the only person I'd want to share my life with regardless of your hair or lack of it.”
“I like being bald. It makes me feel sexy, but I'd like to be able to see what I'll look like at fifty.”
“Look on the internet. Maybe you can find some pictures of bald women who are fifty or older.”
“I'll give it a try. I saw something about women with alopecia going out together. Maybe I can find some pictures.”
“Won't be easy. Most people, men in particular, think that it's the long hair they have that makes women sexy. I'll tell you though, that you're the sexiest woman in the world in my opinion.”
“Haven't I heard that before,” Jennifer laughed as she leaned over to kiss him.
“Come on. Let's get you shaved. You're definitely in need of a little maintenance,” Alex joked.
“OK! I'm ready! You make it such a treat. You make it feel so good,” Jennifer laughed.
“I enjoy it as much as you do I think. Why don't we take a little ride on the green line to where they're selling those Condos. I know which stop it is. If we go this afternoon we can check them out, get some literature and then go to a restaurant for dinner.”
“You sure you want to go out to dinner. I thought I'd fix something here.”
“After all that work looking at Condos you'll be way too tired to cook. Besides you haven't had a good chance to show off for two weeks,” Alex laughed.
“You mean going to work doesn't count?”
“They're so used to seeing this beautiful bald woman getting things done, they think it's perfectly normal. Have any of the other women talked about getting their heads shaved? Here comes your hot towel.”
“Deana has repeatedly told me how much she admires the way I look. She has mentioned getting her head shaved a bunch of times. I'm sure she would if she had a boyfriend who was supportive.”
“Yes, I think that's what she needs.”
Alex had removed the hot towel and applied shaving gel and carefully massaged it for a minute or two.
“I'll never get tired of this Alex. You can massage my head anytime you like,” Jennifer said as she closed her eyes and luxuriated in the feeling of Alex's fingers gently massaging her temples and then moving on to cover every part of her head.
Finally he finished and began to shave her head, taking his time and doing it painstakingly. Twenty minutes later he used the reheated towel to clean off the remnants of the gel. A very soft dry towel was followed by a second massage with the special moisturizer that Jennifer used. When he was done he leaned over, held her head and they indulged in a long lingering kiss.
“I love you Jennifer.”
She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned over so that her smooth head rested under his heart as he stood beside the chair. She could hear his slow regular heartbeat and feel the gentle lifting of his chest as he breathed. She felt utterly content. Without saying a word she reached up and unbuckled his belt, unzipped his fly, then fumbled to release the top button.
She offered him her love in a way that he had not experienced before as she moved her hand over the smooth skin of his crotch and took him into her mouth.
Alex could not refrain from putting both hands on her head as she brought him to the summit.
“Oh my God, Jennifer!” Alex exclaimed, virtually speechless after his shattering climax.
“I love you Alex. I wanted to do something special for you. You've done so many wonderful things for me and that was all I could think of.”
“More than just special – I can't find the words,” Alex said as he held Jennifer's smooth head, that he had so recently lovingly shaved.
After a cursory cleanup of the bathroom they retired to the bed where they embraced, then relaxed, content to be side by side.
“I don't think I'm ever going to let hair grow on my head again. I love having you hold it and touch it and kiss it.”
Alex continued to fondle her head where it lay cradled by his arm. “I'll always love you and it, just the way you are.”
“I could lie here like this all day, but maybe I'd better fix us some lunch before we go to look at those condos. I want to take a few minutes to search for bald women too.”
“Hum. I guess I'll have to get up if I'm going to be of any use. How can I help while I'm nuzzling your head and neck?”
“That's all the help I need. Heaven knows what a strange concoction for lunch I'll come up with if I'm totally distracted,” Jennifer said as she rolled over to be embraced once again.
With a light lunch prepared and eaten Jennifer sat down at her computer to look for pictures. She had looked at various picture sites a year earlier and still had the addresses in her computer. After a quick scan of some of the pictures she found one that got her attention.
“Look here Alex. I can't tell how old she is exactly, but I'm sure she's in her fifties. She look very good, don't you think?”
“You're right. She seems to be a very elegant lady. She looks quite good. You could talk to her and completely forget that she's bald.”
“That's what I do myself. I don't even think about it unless someone makes a remark or really stares at me. I don't feel the least bit out of place or anything like that. It's just who I am.”
“That's the way it should be Jennifer. Your confidence makes you look good just the way she does.”
“I found another one too. She may be younger. It's hard to tell, but she certainly looks good. I'm getting more and more certain that I want to stay bald. I just like the way I look and I love the freedom. I've even gotten so that I enjoy shocking people.”
“Here she is. What do you think? Would I look that good twenty five years from now?”
“I think she looks almost as good as you will twenty years from now. You've convinced me. You'll be absolutely fabulous as a bald fifty something woman. I'll need to carry a baseball bat to ward off all the guys who'll want to get you away from me. It's very interesting. I can imagine that woman being your Mother.”
Twenty minutes later they were on their way to visit the new condo buildings.
After several hours looking at models and examining floor plans they were convinced that they had found what they were looking for.
“Jennifer, the new ones that they're offering look like very good buys, even though we won't be able to move in for six months.”
“I know. Buying early really is a good idea. The three bedroom plan is just what I've always dreamed of having if I were married. We can easily afford it too.”
“Do you think we should sign up? We'd have a month to decide to sign the contract while we think about it.”
“I'd like to Alex. If we find something even better we're not committed.”
Paperwork completed, they shook hands with the salesman. He had struggled trying not to stare at Jennifer. He insisted in explaining the process at great length, giving them a great deal of information even though he skimmed over details that they knew were important. Jennifer looked at Alex at one point and he gave her a raised eyebrow look that said they should just let him finish rather than correcting his mistakes.
When he was finished, in an effort to be friendly, he asked them what they did at their respective companies.
Jennifer answered, “I'm senior analyst at Guardian Title and Alex is lead agent for commercial sales at Summit Realty.”
The salesman looked at her blankly for a moment before he looked down as he tried to compose some appropriate to say.
“You should have stopped me,” he said.
“You were just doing your job,” Alex said to him. “We didn't want to appear smart-alecky.”
“OK. Thanks for being polite and listening.”
“No problem. Thanks for taking care of this for us. And by the way, I know you are curious about me. You don't see bald women every day. I'll just say that I'm perfectly healthy and bald by my own choice. I just like it this way,” Jennifer replied.
They left with the salesman still standing with his mouth open. They were back on the train before they began discussing the future.
“I think we should take the next two weekends to look at apartments and condos, but if we haven't found something very good we should lock up the unit,” Jennifer said.
“I agree. I'll do a thorough search through the listings and the rentals along both train lines and see what I can find. We may need to take a couple of days off if we find some good prospects,” Alex said.
“This is getting a little complicated isn't it. Should we hold off planning our wedding until after we find a place, or maybe we can just do something simple,” Jennifer suggested.
“Both our folks would be very disappointed if we didn't have a nice wedding even if it is small. And you certainly wouldn't want to leave out Tony. And I'd want Keith to be involved for sure,” Alex replied. “Why don't we hold off for a couple of months. We can still set the date if you want. Sometime in early Summer maybe and tell our folks and anyone else that should know,” Alex said. “I liked the way you handled that salesman.”
“Thanks for the compliment. I've figured out several useful responses. I like your plan. I do want to tell my folks and my brother and Tony too. Hey, shouldn't we be getting off at the next stop?”
“No. We're going down to the transfer station and changing to the old number four line,” Alex answered.
“So where are we headed?”
“Surprise. You'll know it when we get there.”
They changed trains and exited a few stations later. Alex led them to a small park where they spent a quiet hour enjoying the Fall colors and sitting on a bench watching birds come and go getting juniper berries and seeds from the surrounding flower beads.
“Alex, they'll be building nests next spring. We're be doing the same thing,” she laughed.
“We found the right mates, so nest building is usually the next step. We're going to build a fine one I'm certain,” Alex said laughing in turn.
They exited the park and got back on the train. Jennifer was content to let Alex lead the way to where ever they were headed. Exiting the train once more they walked a block to a café where they enjoyed coffee and shared a doughnut.
“I made a reservation for seven thirty. We'll be a little early, but they won't mind. We could do a little window shopping to work off that doughnut if you like.”
“Let's do that. Aren't we near the theater where we went on our first date? You're going to keep it a secret – where we're eating I mean.”
“Yes to the latter. The theater is a few block down over on third street. Most of the stores are on second street. We'll head that way.”
It seemed to Jennifer that they wandered aimlessly, but a few minutes before seven thirty they turned a corner walked a few steps and Alex stopped and opened a door for her.
“Oh! I remember this place. We had dinner here after the show on our first date!”
“That's right. It's a nice place. We should come here more often,” Alex smiled.
The maitre d' greeted them effusively. “Benvenuta Signora. It is a great pleasure to have such a beautiful and striking lady visit out establishment again.”
“You remember me from a year ago?” Jennifer said surprised.
“Indeed. How could I not. You make an impression that is indelible.”
He escorted them to their table which was not far from the little stage where the singer had stood when he had performed at their last visit. Tonight there were two chairs in addition to the microphone that was used by the singer to introduce each song. Promptly at eight O'clock a young woman and an equally young man took their positions on stage. The young man introduced them as brother and sister, named Estelle and Harry, both advanced students at the music academy. They would give a program of English folk songs and arias by Handel all accompanied by the lute.
The very first song that she sang had Jennifer enthralled. She heard this breathtakingly beautiful and pure high lyric soprano voice that soared to stratospheric heights as lightly as a feather, that executed runs and trills effortlessly and made each phrase heartrending.
The room had become quite - every conversation stopped as they became riveted by what they were hearing. Even the waiters stopped until she finished her song. There was prolonged applause when she had finished. From the next table Jennifer heard someone exclaim softly “Oh my God!” It was a sentiment that Jennifer shared. She reached out to grasp Alex's hand and observed that his eyes glistened. He had been moved almost to tears just as she had been.
Their main course had arrived, but each time Estelle sang talking and eating ceased. After thirty minutes of songs and two lute solos with short breaks between them there was an intermission.
They had finished their meal finally. The waiter removed their plates and asked if they wanted dessert which Alex ordered along with small glasses of dessert wine.
“Jennifer I have something I want you to have.”
“What is it,” Jennifer asked perplexed.
“It's this. It was my Grandmother's,” Alex said as he opened the small ring box and held it out to her.
“Your Grandmother's! It's beautiful. Oh, Alex are you sure it's OK for me to wear it?”
“Mom wanted you to have it. She gave it to me when we visited last month. You won her over. When I first told her that my girlfriend was bald, she was sure you were one of those crazy Goths with black dyed hair, black cloths, lots of piercings and wild makeup. She was surprised that you looked and acted just like a normal woman except that you're bald. She thinks you're crazy to want to be bald, but she told me your were very down to earth – 'sensible' was how she put it. Helping her in the kitchen fixing meals and actually knowing what you were doing made a big impression on her. She likes you very much.”
“Put it on for me Alex,” Jennifer said as she began to shed tears while she smiled.
“It's a little tight. Grandmother Nanna was a very small lady. There. I think we'll have to have it enlarged a little bit for you.”
“It's the most wonderful ring in the world. I'm sure I'll be able to get it on and off until we get it enlarged. It's just a little bit tight. You have a wonderful family Alex. I'll be very proud to be a part of it. Your Mom is a great lady. No wonder you're such a terrific guy. Can you tell me anything about this ring? I've never seen anything like it.”
“It's a little bit mysterious. Apparently it was in my Grandfather's family. He gave it to Nana as an engagement ring. So it's quite old. It's platinum. The diamond is cut in an old fashioned style as are the two rubies.”
Estelle and Harry took the stage again and most conversations stopped as Harry announced their next song. Jennifer and Alex had their dessert and sweet wine while the listened to Estelle sing. She knew it was fantasy, but Jennifer imagined that she was singing just for them.
Half an hour later Harry announced that the last song for the evening would be from Handel's oratorio Semele “Where'er You Walk.”
It began with a short introduction by the lute. Then Estelle began to sing. “Where'er you walk, cool gales shall fan the glade;” Jennifer was transfixed by both the beauty of Estelle's singing and the words that she sang. She held onto Alex's hand fiercely as tears flowed down her cheeks. When the song ended and Estelle stood with her hands at her side there was a moment of suspension before the diners finally responded with applause and several bravo's.
Before they left Alex went to the Maitre d' and handed him a folded bill with a few words. They walked in silence for a while before Jennifer finally spoke.
“Did you give him something for Estelle and Harry?”
“Yes. Fifty dollars. They deserved a lot more.”
“I felt like she was singing just to us. I've never heard anyone sing like that.”
“I know. Apparently practically everyone there felt the same way. It was remarkable.”
“Did you know they were going to be performing tonight?”
“It was a complete surprise to me.”
“It was perfect for the occasion and for us. I cried a lot didn't I?”
“Half the people in the room were crying. I saw one of the waiters wiping his eyes.”
“Like her last song said, where ever you walk there will be cool breezes, shade trees, flowers and everything will flourish. I want to be by your side where ever you walk.”
“And I beside your.”
Little more was said as they boarded the train, changed to the Green line and were soon walking the three blocks back to Jennifer's apartment. They were content.
The next morning they were all business as they dressed and shaved, Alex doing his face and Jennifer doing her head. They had often laughed at this strange spectacle of the two of them intent on their shaving. When it was done they dressed and had breakfast. Their routine was established.
A brisk walk to the main street where they engaged a taxi, a short ride to their office building and they were walking down the hallway.
Having exchanged quick kisses Alex and Jennifer separated and headed to their respective offices. Jennifer walked through the double doors to be greeted by Barbara.
“Hi Jennifer. There's a message for you from Daryl. He wants to see you about something. He'll be here about ten.”
“That's odd. Did he tell you anything about what he wanted?”
“You know Daryl. He never says anything like that – he just expects people to accommodate him,” Barbara said with mild disapproval.
“OK. Just let me know when he gets here.”
It was about ten fifteen when Barbara called. “He's here.”
“OK. Tell him to come on down.”
Jennifer had a bigger office now that she supervised three other analysts. She had left her door partly open. In his usual brusque manner Daryl pushed it wide and walked in without knocking.
“Shit Jenny. What is wrong with you?” Daryl blurted out when he saw her.
“Good morning to you too Daryl. What makes you think there's something wrong with me. Actually my name is Jennifer. Is there something that I can do for you?”
“Damn it Jenny I was going to see if we could get back together, but I'm not going out with a bald freak.”
“Thanks for the compliment Daryl. You always did have a way with words. Maybe you should stick with your present girlfriend. I'm not available as you can see,” Jennifer said as she extended her left hand so he could see the platinum ring with its large, but old fashioned cut diamond flanked by two good sized rubies, that she was wearing. “Alex and I will be getting married some time next summer or early fall.”
“What's that - a cheap dime store joke. What are you doing in this office?”
“You're making quite an ass of yourself Daryl. Look at the door. I'm senior analyst here at Guardian. And this is a valuable heirloom It's a lot more real than you are. It was Alex's Grandmother's. It's nearly a hundred years old and it's assessed at a small fortune. Now, unless you have some business that we need to discuss, I have to talk to my analysts about some new projects that are beginning soon,” Jennifer said as she stood up. “My condolences about your recent split with what's her name.”
Daryl glared at her. “Bitch” was the last word that he mumbled as he stormed out of her office and down the hall to leave without another word.
Jennifer waited a few minutes before walking to the reception area.
“Wow, you must have really set him off,” Barbara said.
“Actually I was very polite. He barged in and had a fit that I was still bald. He had some crazy idea that I would instantly fall into his arms if he just crocked his finger at me. Apparently he's broken up with whoever it was that he was going with. He wasn't very happy that I was wearing this engagement ring and described it as dime store junk. He thought that I was using someone else's office. I told him he was making an ass of himself. That's when he called me a bitch and stormed out.”
“He was always egocentric. I guess having his little blondie walk out on him and you not at all interested sent him over the edge.”
“Is that what happened? His girlfriend walked out?”
“That's what I heard from a very reliable source. He threw a fit then too.”
“I'm going across the hall to talk to Alex. I should be back in ten or fifteen minutes.”
Two minutes she was in Alex's office.
“What's going on Jennifer. You look a little pale.”
“I guess I probably do. I want you to know about this before you hear it from anyone else. Daryl showed up about ten minutes ago and wanted to see me. His girlfriend seems to have walked out on him. Apparently he thought I'd just take up with him again no questions asked. He got pretty upset that I was still bald and when I said that I wasn't available and showed him Nanna's ring he got belligerent. I told him that he was making an ass of himself and he called me a bitch and stormed out. I need a hug.”
They hugged while Alex held her head which nestled on his shoulder.
“I love you Jennifer. I'll be there for you anytime, especially when some jerk shows up.”
“I know. I did OK. It was just so unexpected. I'm better now. I better get back to work. I just hope that Daryl is completely out of my life now.”
“His ego was punctured. He won't risk that again.”
A month later, their contract for the condo having been signed and their loan approved they were sitting in Alex's apartment on Friday evening. Alex had taken care of dinner in his usual way which was to get a nice bottle of wine and some “elegant” carry out food which he heated up and served on his few mismatched plates. They had been talking about moving into their new condo in early April and getting settled in. That was going to complicate their marriage plans which it appeared would have to be postponed until a least July or even later.
“I guess you're right Jennifer. It would get way to complicated to try to have a wedding in June.”
“OK , that's settled. Oh, by the way. I have a special errand to do tomorrow morning. I can't tell you what it is, except it's about us. So don't ask me. OK?”
Alex laughed. “I won't ask.”
Saturday morning Jennifer got up at her usual time and carefully shaved her head while Alex was still asleep. She woke him up and they showered together before she dressed and fixed breakfast for them. They ate and talked. Jennifer was animated.
“You seem especially cheerful this morning.”
“I am. I'm looking forward to my little errand. I'll have to get ready and go in about about twenty minutes. I think I'll be back by half past twelve.”
“OK. I'll do the laundry while you gone.”
“A man after my own heart. Of course you've already got it so maybe it doesn't count,” Jennifer said laughing.
“It counts. Laundry is just a side benefit.”
They kissed as passionately now as ever.
Jennifer left to hail a taxi and get to where her “errand” was taking place. While riding she took the two tablets of ibuprofen that were recommended.
Paying the cabbie she walked into the spa and signed in.
“Jackie will be right with you Ms. Colson. Please have a seat.”
“Hello Jennifer. Come on back.”
“Hi Jackie. How are you.”
“I'm doing very well. So you're sure you want to go ahead with this. I won't be disappointed if you change your mind.”
“Oh, no. I want to go ahead. I've thought about all the arguments against it and I'm still as certain as ever that I want to do it.”
“Well then, I won't try to discourage it any more. I'm sure you're quite sane. And anyway you're such an attractive woman that I've come to think of you as quite normal. You don't need any hair to be attractive, sexy even.”
“I actually feel better about myself now than I've ever felt.”
“I'm going to put this cape around you so I don't get any of this skin desensitizer on your clothes. You know the drill. I'm going to be generous with this lotion.”
Jackie spread the creamy substance over Jennifer's head covering it completely around the ears and down the back, then set a timer for fifteen minutes.
Jennifer read a magazine to pass the time until the timer sounded and Jackie returned.
“This is going to be quite an experience for me Jennifer. It's not something I ever imagined doing even in my wildest fantasies.”
“I know. I guess I really going off the deep end here, but that's what I want to do.”
“Well you're all cleaned up and I ready to start any time you are. Just let me know, but first you need to put on this little eye protector mask.”
Her eye protector in place Jennifer sat back. “Go ahead Jackie. I'll yell if I can't stand it.”
“OK. I'm going to start at the back and work my way up.”
Half an hour later, after one break Jackie was more than halfway through.
“It's not bad Jackie. It seems to have gotten better actually. You can go ahead.”
Another twenty minutes and it was done. Jennifer's head and brow area was quite red, as though she had been in the sun most of the day without a sunscreen.
“I'll put on this cortisone cream to help get rid of the redness. What kind of a schedule are you thinking of?”
“I'm going to come back twice more at six week intervals, then I going to stop shaving and see the results. I'll probably come in for two more sessions after that. By then I hope it will be as good as my bottom.”
“I think it will be. You're definitely past the point of no return now.”
“I have no regrets Jackie. I know that most people will think I'm crazy, but I'll be no different than all those thousands of women with alopecia. I can deal with the negatives, and they're more than balanced by what I see as positives.”
“I can understand that. We're done here Jennifer. I'll see you in six weeks.”
“Thanks Jackie. Thanks for taking me seriously.”
“You're welcome Jennifer. You are a beautiful bald women. Be happy.”
Jennifer put on a little knitted cap to keep her head warm in the brisk air of early November as well as to cover up the redness of her somewhat irritated scalp. She hailed a cab an headed back to Alex's apartment.
Opening the door, she stepped in, closed the door and took off the knitted cap and her coat and dropped them on the nearest chair.
“I'm back Alex.”
“Be right there. I'm hanging up your slacks.”
Jennifer walked into the bedroom where Alex had neatly folded their cloths and was hanging up trousers, slacks, shirts and blouses. He turned toward her.
“Oh my gosh, what happened Jennifer? You're so red!”
“It's OK. It'll go away by tomorrow.”
Understanding suddenly dawned on Alex. “You had a laser treatment on your head!”
“Yes. That what I wanted to do. You don't think I'm crazy do you?”
“I know you're as sane as anyone I've ever known, but why?”
“I had several reasons. I like being bald. I'm very comfortable with it and I didn't want to have to shave every day to keep it looking good. But the main reason is that you were the first person to accept me and love me as a bald woman and I'm committed to you. There's nobody else that could replace you, so I'm going to be bald, permanently bald, as a visible show of my love and my commitment to you,” Jennifer said as she reached out to embrace him.
Alex eagerly took her into his arms and held her without a word as tears welled up and washed gently down his cheeks. After a while he held her at arms length to look at her as she smiled up at him, then she gently reached up with her finger to catch a tear which she touched to her lips.
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