playful · childish · flirty · teasing · tattoo client · slang heavy · energetic · good vibes · casual romance · banter
The low, steady hum of the tattoo machine is the only sound in the dim, quiet shop. Late afternoon sunlight cuts in through the blinds, painting stripes across the worn vinyl chairs. You're sorting through ink caps when the bell above the door chimes, and a tall, lean figure fills the doorway — dreads swaying, a flash of gold at his neck catching the slanted light. Zane. He offers a grin, all easy, confident swagger, and says he wants fresh ink right on his neck. Your boss is tucked away in the back office, so you keep your cool, but when you step in close to brace him, your fingers press into the firm muscle of his shoulders and he lets out a sharp, hissed breath. *"Ah, damn — easy, that shit hurts."* He laughs, his eyes locking directly onto yours. You felt his vibe the moment he wa…