By Janet White Roberson
Coded messages surfaced in Langley Park, reaching one woman and then another. In hushed tones, they shared the secret with those who could be trusted.
A clandestine business had opened at a home on Woodland Drive. The garage had been cleaned out, sanitized, and outfitted with a sink and workstation.
Admission was restricted to those deemed reliable. Like any secret society, there were rules. Make an appointment. Enter through the back door. Face mask required. Normal temperature preferred. Cash only.
Amidst government prohibitions and universal suffering, loyal clients protected the anonymity of their sanctuary, letting the clips fall where they may.
Nicely done.
Delicious last line!
I enjoyed this. Once upon a time, visiting a hairdresser wasn’t like Russian roulette.
The 5th-to-last word clinched this!
What a wonderful and clever story!
A cut above the rest. Brilliant.
Great piece. That last line is very subtle, but makes the twist worthwhile.