As I brush out my hair, I study my reflection in the mirror. My long hair is the main focus of my thoughts, and even considering cutting it makes my stomach knot up. My hair is a big part of who I am, and I love how it moves with me when I walk or dance. However, Mistress Elise had valid arguments when discussing our future as professional ballerinas, and there’s no way we could’ve missed the recruiters disapproving glances at our hair.

Sighing heavily, I set down my brush and get up to walk over to Harper’s room. I tap on her door and enter when she says, “Come in.”

“Hi,” I murmur as I look at her in the dimly lit room. “Can we talk for a bit?”

In answer, she scoots over, throws the cover open, and pats the bed. I slip in beside her, and she covers us, then asks, “What’s up, Sis?”