Mom ties a bright blue ribbon around my wrist, her eyes full of encouragement. "Are you ready for your big day? We're going to the hair salon, just like we talked about," My heart races with a mixture of excitement and worry. I glance at my tousled hair in the hallway mirror, wondering what I’ll look like when it’s all over.

I clutch my stuffed bear, a silent companion, as we pull into a parking lot lined with tiny shops. The hair salon’s window sparkles in the sunlight, decorated with pastel balloons and a picture of a smiling girl with a fresh haircut. "Look, they even have balloons for you," My nerves begin to melt into curiosity as Mom takes my hand and leads me inside.

Ms. Lila, the stylist, offers a gentle smile and a lollipop. "Hi there! I'm Ms. Lila, and today, you get to sit in the special chair. Would you like your bear to have a seat with you?" I nod shyly, gripping my bear, and climb into a tall, red booster chair that feels like a throne.

"You’re doing such a great job! Do you want to see how much hair we’ve cut off?" I peek at the floor, marveling at the small pile of hair that once belonged to me. My reflection shifts in the mirror with every careful snip, and I start to smile as Ms. Lila shows me how my new bangs bounce.

Ms. Lila[/@ch_2] sweeps the cape away, and my new haircut is revealed in the mirror, framed by sunlight streaming through the window.] Mom claps her hands in delight, her eyes shining with pride. "You look so grown up! What do you think?" I reach up to touch my shorter hair, grinning at my reflection. Even my bear seems to approve.

Mom[/@ch_1] takes a picture as I hold my lollipop and bear, the wind ruffling my fresh haircut. The sky is a brilliant blue, and laughter bubbles up as we walk hand-in-hand toward home.] "Let’s show everyone your new look when we get home. Maybe we’ll even stop for ice cream!" With each step, I feel lighter and braver, ready for new adventures with my new look—and maybe another haircut someday.