It’s probably my own fault for being so naive and trusting. The stylist they assigned me obviously wanted to make a name for herself by doing something bold and creative. She intimated that it would be good for my image to get a pixie cut, that people would love it, that I had “just the right bone structure to carry it off”. It was clear she thought my current style was out of date and I needed something “fresh and exciting”.

I can’t let the salon carry all of the blame as I stupidly let myself be talked into the makeover. But I’m writing this week’s column to serve as a warning to my readers against those hairdressers who think they know best and want to impose their thoughtless creative ideas onto poor unsuspecting customers. The whole thing has left me with a bad taste in my mouth and the feeling that I was taken advantage of. Not to mention the fact that it cost me a pretty penny too.

But never fear, you know me, I don’t stay glum for long. I’m sure next week’s column will be cheerier. Perhaps I’ll do a piece on wig shops. What do you think?

As always, love and peace,

Cassie x

I read it through twice before lifting my gaze to face Jennifer, who looks furiously close to tears, her eyes bright, her mouth pulled into a thin line. The piece is basically a hatchet job on an unnamed Shaftesbury salon, but everyone locally will know she’s referring to Waves. The absolute nerve of the woman. I feel physically sick as I hand Jennifer’s phone back to her.

‘I’ll call her,’ I offer. Although the thought of speaking to Cassie right now has me feeling even sicker.

‘It won’t do any good.’ Jennifer looks down at her phone again before switching it off in disgust. ‘It’s out there now. I’d be surprised if we get any new bookings after that.’

‘Everyone who knows us will know it’s all lies. The magazine can print a retraction. An apology. You could sue or, even better, contact a rival magazine. I bet they’d love to do a piece on your side of the story.’

Jennifer gives a bitter laugh and shakes her head. ‘That will only give her more oxygen. I’d rather just ignore it and let the whole thing die down.’

‘What a bitch. You know that it never happened like that. I was against the pixie cut from the start.’

‘I know you were, Zoe. But she’s your friend. You’ve known her for years, haven’t you?’ I’m starting to get an inkling that Jennifer might hold me partially responsible for what’s happened.