“I love it! You know… I could actually use a barber for some future segments,” Brittani said. “If you’re open to it that is.”

Phileigh looked at me. All the color drained from her face.

“Oh my God. Are you serious?”

“Of course. Now, don’t ask me for all the details because I’m still working it out, but yes. A beautiful plus-sized female barber is something my show needs, sugar.”

“I’d be so honored!” Phileigh replied, her face lighting up at the opportunity.

“Great. Do you have a card, or what is your contact information?” Brittani asked.

I backed off a little, allowing Phileigh to connect with Brittani with a huge smile on my face. This was the opportunity of a lifetime, and I was glad I’d helped with the connection.

“I just met Brittani Shepard! And she took my number for a possible spot in an upcoming segment! Can you believe it?” Phileigh ran over to me once she was done talking to Brittani. She could hardly contain her excitement.

“Congratulations. You handled that like a professional,” I said, leading her out of the building toward a waiting black SUV. I was stuck doing press for the rest of the day, but Phileigh didn’t have to be.

“You mean that? ’Cause I was so nervous, but she was so nice that it made it easier.” She continued on about her encounter as I opened the car door for her.

“I think you made a good impression. Maybe this will lead to some great opportunities.”

“Maybe. She stepped inside the SUV. “Today was unbelievable.”

“I’m glad.”

“That’s Kellon Barnes!” a random voice called out.

“I better get back inside before I’m swarmed.”

“Wait. You’re not getting in?”

“Naw. I have press all day. My mom is going to take you to my crib, get you settled, and take you to grab some clothes.”

“Um… okay.”

“I’ll see you back at the house,” I told her. “Play nice, Ma,” I said as security led me back inside the studio building.

Chapter 9

I sat quietly in the back seat of the SUV, glancing out the window and taking in the sights of New York. I’d never been to a city this big before. It was beautiful. A mix of excitement and nervousness filled my head as I tried to figure out how to strike up a conversation with Ms. Barnes. I couldn’t believe Kellon left me alone with his mom. From our prior encounters, I’d gathered she didn’t like me much, and I could fully understand why. In her eyes, I was a strange woman sniffing around her son for a come up.