Chapter: 20 "This looks so much better! You look amazing!" the hair dresser said brightly. "If you're open to it, we could add some color or give it a slight perm. It would make it pop even more. Heretake a look."..cmMillie glanced down at the brochure, but then softly pressed her hand to her belly."Not today. It's a bit late already," she said. The hair dresser seemed disappointed but brightened again when Millie added, "I'll come back to you for it. Soon."This one knew his onion... He beamed. "Deal!" He quickly reached for his schedule. "Want to pick a day now?"Millie looked down again, thoughtful."Maybe in a week. Two at the most. should be ready by then."That was enough time to recover if things went the way she expected. "Okay, I'll see you soon," the hair dresser said as Millie got up to leave. Smiling, she gave a small nod. With her new haircut, she made her way to the downtown area and wandered into the luxury mall. Designer logos lined the storefronts. She glanced down at her soft, delicate outfit and let out a quiet, mocking smile. This sweet and docile style was what Brandon liked. It was a way of showing she was submissive. But it had never truly been her..w. She walked through several stores, choosing a few pieces before catching a taxi home. She stepped into her new house, carrying the bags in one hand..l. The space around her was still unfamiliar and empty. She looked around without any clear expression. Not happy. Not sad. She changed out of the pastel dress and into something bolder Valentino, sharp in the details. The canvas tote was set aside for a sleek Chanel chain bag. The wedge sandals came off with one soft kick, replaced by a pair of pointed Dior heels. Gazing at her reflection, Millie muttered, "Welcome to your new beginning."But the mirror didn't return her smile. She tried, half-heartedly, to lift the corners of her lips, but it didn't feel real. Not even enough to fool herself. Seven years. She could still feel the ache. And if the smile wouldn't come, she wouldn't force it. With a long breath, she turned away from the mirror and began to get ready for the next day. She had made up her mind to start overand if that was truly what she wanted, she would do it properly.