Many of the women in the circle appeared to Liz to be close to tears, though some were more difficult to read, writing with expensive pens, their briefcases balanced against their slim ankles, their hair blown smooth.

NEWYORKER: Playdate

The hair there was dark and smooth, as if combed.

NEWYORKER: Temporary

She turned on her side to better look at it, and noticed for the first time how comely it was, how round and smooth were its face and shoulders and belly, how lustrous was its hair.

NEWYORKER: A Tiny Feast