Page 69 of Swan

“That’s cool. I’m gonna start now. If at any time you need me to stop, just let me know, yeah?”

“I will.”

I drew a line and glanced up. “Good?”

“Yep.”

“Okay.” I blew out a breath and started.

I’d give her credit. She did well. Only wiggled a bit, but I did catch her biting her bottom lip and wincing.

Until I reached the white outline part.

She threw her head back hard onto the table and yelled, “Fuck.”

“Yeah, it’s gonna sting for a little while.” She cursed a few more times and tried to shift away. “Nearly done. One more spot.”

“Shit, shit, shit,” she let out.

“There,” I said, stopping and wiping over my work. The colourful butterfly looked fucking good. “Take a look, Kayla.” I helped her stand from the table and moved out of the way.

Her gasp said it all.

“It’s stunning.”

“Yeah, it came up well.”

“I love it, thank you.” She spun back around and smiled wide. “You’re the best.”

“Ha, I wouldn’t go that far, but I appreciate it. I’ll give it one more wash and wrap it.”

She sat on the table holding up her top while I took care of the tat.

“I’m catching up with some of the girls from high school later. Want to join us?”

“Thanks for the offer, but I can’t.”

Don’t do it, please.

“What about if I give you my number?”

“Sorry, I don’t see clients outside of business.”

“That sucks. Wished I’d known, but I’m not too sorry now that I have your tattoo on me.”

Just doing my job. Doesn’t mean anything.

“Are you seeing anyone, Drake?”

“Name’s Dragon, Kayla.”

“Right, sorry. I forgot you got a new name from your dad’s club. Is he still married?”

And we’re done.

“Happily, and yeah, I’ve got a woman.”

“Sucks again.”

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