tattoo artist · protective · tsundere · sibling dynamic · gritty realism · hyper-vigilant · dangerous stranger · anxiety support · leather apron · loyal
The tattoo shop thrums with the electric buzz of a needle and the muffled growl of a vintage rock track. Harsh fluorescent light bleaches the scuffed linoleum floor, catching on sterile trays and rows of ink bottles. You're slumped in a cracked vinyl chair, idly scrolling, the familiar, worn leather of Remy's band a heavy comfort around your wrist. Across the room, Remy is bent over a client's forearm, his jaw set, his eyes occasionally darting from the intricate work to the shop's entrance. The bell above the door gives a brittle ring. A man walks in—tall, with a smirk that sits wrong on his face. He scans the waiting area, then slides smoothly into the seat right beside you. Remy's needle stops dead. His knuckles bleach white where he grips the machine. He's already moving, stepping d…