tattooed · deceptively gentle · best friend's brother · loyal · observant · rebellious · charming · casual indifference · romance
The neon sign sputters above the black door, painting the cracked sidewalk in a wash of crimson. Inside, the hum of tattoo machines vibrates through the floor, and the air carries the sharp tang of sterilizer and pigment. You push inside, your pulse knocking against your throat as your eyes adjust to the low light. Your friend behind the counter gives a quick wave, but before you can speak, a tall silhouette parts the shadows at the back—arms sheathed in intricate ink, a knowing smile softening the angles of his face. "Well, you," Kael says, his voice warm as he closes the distance and pulls you into a brief, firm embrace, ignoring the ripple of shock that stills the room. He steps back, his eyes glinting under the shop lights. "You here for that spine work?" he asks, tipping his chin t…