Read Online Highlights to Heaven by Nancy J. Cohen - Free Book Online Page A

orientation program which runs every Tuesday, either in the morning from eight until ten, or in the evening from seven to nine. You’re required to take a placement test to measure your math, reading, and language levels. It takes about twenty minutes on the computer. Then a counselor will describe the required classes.”
    Grinning, Marla shook her head. “That’s not why I’m here, although I’d like to learn more. Just to see how things have changed, you understand. I’m a licensed stylist.”
    “Oh, then you’re here about a renewal? We don’t do the HIV/AIDS course here or the other things you’ll need. It’s tough to get part-time instructors, and we have too many regular students. One of the other schools may be able to help you.”
    Marla stood her ground. “I need to speak to a director.”
    Challenged, the receptionist tilted her head. “Maybe you’re here to register for one of our advanced-products seminars?”
    “I’m seeking specific information on my former classmates. Do you keep records from several years ago?”
    Janine’s expression deflated now that she realized Marla wasn’t applying as a student. “You’ll have to speak to Virginia. She’s the cosmetology department chief. I’ll ring her up and see if she’s in.” A few moments later: “You’re in luck. Go down the hall; it’s the third door on your left.”
    Marla marched proudly along the corridor, appreciating how far she’d come since she’d walked these halls so many years ago. No longer a novice, she now had the benefit of many years of experience. She glimpsed into the laboratory on her left, smiling at the scene. Students wearing blue uniforms worked on mannequin heads while others practiced on actual clients clad in maroon smocks. Although part of her felt a wave of nostalgia, she was glad her year of basic training was long finished.
    When Marla reached the office indicated, she knocked on the solid wood door.
    “Come in,” rang out a strong female voice.
    Marla entered. An auburn-haired woman, sitting behind a mahogany desk, glanced up and smiled. Her china blue eyes looked vaguely familiar.
    “Please come in,” the director said. “I’m Virginia Hawkins.”
    “Hi, I’m Marla Shore. I graduated from here a number of years ago, and I need some information.”
    “Please have a seat. I remember you, dear. I believe I was one of your instructors.”
    After sharing nostalgic memories, Marla stated her case. “Do you keep class rosters? I’m interested in looking up a former classmate.”
    “We keep a database on all our former students. Names, addresses, phone numbers, resumes, job placement. We don’t normally give out this information.”
    Marla thought fast. “I’m planning a reunion.”
    “A reunion, how exciting!” Virginia grinned in delight.
    “I think we lost a member,” Marla said in a sad tone. “I’d read in the newspaper about a stylist drowning in an accident. I couldn’t remember whether she was in my class or not.”
    The director clucked with sympathy. “Just let me bring up that window.” Turning to her computer, Virginia typed in a few commands. “You’re talking about Eileen McFee.”
    “May I see?” Marla craned her neck to peer at the monitor. What she saw made her blood run cold. Louise Cunningham, the recent hit-and-run victim Giorgio had mentioned, was on the same list.
    “This is my class! Can I possibly get a printout?”
    “Well, since you’re a former student of mine…I’ll make an exception, but only if you invite me to the reunion.” Virginia pushed the PRINT button. “It’s difficult retaining students with our transient population.”
    “Tell me about it. I have the same problem with my staff.”
    The director’s eyes lit with curiosity. “How long have you had your own salon?”
    “Eight years. I actually used my portfolio design from class.” It had been part of her graduation requirements. The portfolio included a floor plan for an imaginary