Page 50 of Swan

Mon reached under and pulled a tray out. “We have rings and studs with the prettiest colours. See this green? I think it’d go well with your dark eyes.”

“Hmm,” I mumbled. I wasn’t sure if I could go through with getting one done. “I didn’t ask Maya, but I’ve heard it hurts.”

“For all of five seconds. Once it’s in, it’s done.” She laughed. “That’s what he said.” I joined in with her giggle. Mum and Julian, Maya’s uncle, liked that saying too.

“Okay, let’s do it,” I suddenly said.

Mon gaped. “Wait, really?”

I nodded. “Are you able to do it now before I chicken out?”

“Hell yes. Which one are you after?”

“That green stud, please.”

“Perfect. Step into my room, second door down on the right. I’ll grab the form for you to sign.”

“Thanks,” I said. Nerves rattled around inside me, causing my stomach to act up.

Should I do this?

I went to step by the first door, but it was slightly ajar, and I heard Drake say, “You’re doin’ good. We’re nearly done. Lucky it’s such a small piece.”

“I’m in love with it, Dragon.”

The buzzing of the tattoo gun cut off. “Glad to hear that, babe.”

I moved closer and peeked in. His head went back down to hover over the woman’s hip.

“I’ll be sure to spread the word that you’re taking clients.”

I’m sure she’d like to spread something else.

I stiffened.

Where had that thought come from? I took a step back.

Drake chuckled. “Don’t tell too many. Not lookin’ to be booked up just yet.”

“You got it.”

“Just a few more highlights,” he said and lowered his head as the tattoo gun buzzed to life again.

“Ready, Swan?” Mon called.

I jolted, blushed, and quickly ducked into her room when the buzzing stopped from Drake’s.

“Thanks for doing this,” I said, sitting down on the table.

“Anytime you want to get stabbed with a needle, I’ll gladly help.” She grinned. Her gaze flicked over me, observing how tightly I gripped the table edge. “You want Maya in here for moral support?”

“Um, yeah. Please.”

“No problem. I’ll get her. Back in a sec.”

My stomach spun even more when I was alone in the room.

This was a bad decision.

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