No Escape.

[Here's your bonus Chappy! Dirtydew!]

Hugo sat in the barber chair, staring at his reflection with a mix of joy and overwhelming relief.

He turned his head left.

Then right.

Then he leaned in closer, squinting at his flawless, tapered edges.

It was perfect.

A clean, sharp fade that blended seamlessly into the top, which was cut just right—not too short, not too long.

His natural waves flowed effortlessly, giving him that "bad boy who also writes poetry" kind of look.

'I... I actually look dangerous. Like a man who steals girlfriends without trying. Like a mafia boss' illegitimate son. Like I should be on a poster for men's cologne.'

Old Rick smirked, snapping his fingers. "Not bad, right?"

Hugo, still in disbelief, slowly nodded. "Rick…"

Rick raised a brow.

"…for once in your life, you didn't ruin me."

Rick snorted, waving him off. "Boy, you act like I don't got skill."