I was guided into the dressing room, a vibrant space buzzing with energy. As I pushed aside the heavy curtain, I was greeted by a line of chairs where several girls were seated, their busy hands applying makeup and adjusting their outfits. "Carol, take the table over there," instructed the woman accompanying me, her finger pointing toward a designated spot. In that corner, a stylist waited expectantly, ready to assist me.
"Thanks," I whispered, my voice barely above a murmur, and I made my way toward the table. Just beside me stood Coco, her hair expertly rolled into an elegant updo, and her face artfully adorned with makeup that highlighted her striking features.
When I met her gaze in the mirror, I was surprised to see her smile flash like sunlight breaking through clouds. "Hi, it's been a while," she said, her voice warm and inviting.