Chapter 2: A Chance Encounter Turns Into An Obsession

The next day, Travis found himself driving to the salon, his mind consumed by thoughts of Charlie. He couldn't shake the image of her bright smile and curly hair from his mind. As he pulled up to the salon, he felt a surge of excitement. This was it, he was going to find out more about her. Travis walked into the salon, and was immediately greeted by the sound of hair dryers and chatter. He approached the reception desk, flashing a charming smile at the receptionist. "Hi, I'm here to see Charlie. The hairstylist," he said, trying to sound confident. The receptionist looked up from her computer, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Which Charlie?" she asked, her voice friendly. "The one with the curly black hair and bright smile," Travis replied, his eyes scanning the salon. The receptionist chuckled. "That would be Charlie Thompson. She's one of our top stylists. Let me check her schedule." She tapped on her computer, and then looked up. "She's actually on a break right now. Would you like to wait?" Travis nodded enthusiastically. "I'd love to." As he waited, Travis took in the atmosphere of the salon. The walls were adorned with colorful artwork, and the air was filled with the scent of hair products. He noticed a few clients chatting with the stylists, laughing and smiling. Finally, Charlie emerged from the back room, looking stunning in a white apron and her hair tied up in a ponytail. She glanced up, and her eyes widened as she saw Travis standing there. "Travis," she said, a hint of surprise in her voice. "What are you doing here?" Travis smiled, feeling a sense of relief that he'd found her. "I couldn't stop thinking about you," he said, his voice low and sincere. "I wanted to see you again." Charlie looked taken aback, but also a little flattered. "I have to get back to work," she said, glancing at the receptionist. "But I could take a short break. What did you want to talk about?" Travis followed Charlie to a quiet corner of the salon, feeling a sense of excitement. He had no idea what the future held, but he was determined to make Charlie a part of it. As they talked, Travis learned more about Charlie's passion for hairstyling, and her love of music. He found himself drawn to her creativity and energy. Charlie, on the other hand, was torn between her growing attraction to Travis, and her fear of getting involved with someone she barely knew. Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of Charlie's phone buzzing. She glanced at the screen, and her expression changed. "I'm so sorry, but I have to go. I have an emergency appointment." Travis nodded understandingly. "It was great seeing you again, Charlie. Can I walk you out?" As they walked out of the salon, Travis felt a sense of determination. He was going to make Charlie his, no matter what it took. And Charlie, despite her reservations, couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement at the prospect of getting to know Travis better.