#best watercolor tattoo artists near me

[honeekyuu]

squeeze. [sakusa kiyoomi x reader] satin black intros.

place of (homosexual) business

masterlist.

[playlist]. satin black || vibes

a/n. im completely totally normal about this au. completely normal.

warnings: me.

✗ !!! minors do not interact !!! ✗

✗ !!! ignore timestamps !!! ✗

satin black moved into its current location about three weeks ago, and theyve tortured brews abridged ever since

they were at a smaller location for 3 years prior, but they outgrew it when each of them independently went a little viral online for their work

everyone has a license to both pierce and tattoo, but iwa/akaashi stick to tattooing and suna sticks to piercing

akaashi’s the only one who went to art school

iwa taught himself on youtube

suna and sakusa taught themselves by practicing on each other – all of suna’s tattoos are by sakusa and all of sakusa’s piercings are by suna exclusively

it went a little like this the first time around: "i can do this. i dont need instructions-" "ARE YOU FUCKING SURE ABOUT THAT!!!!"

akaashi specializes in black and grey tattoos and iwa does color; sakusa does both but prefers black and grey

iwa’s best known for watercolor style art and akaashi’s best known for geometric art 

sakusa’s best known for japanese style art

suna's keeps trying to sell people on new and strange places to get pierced. this is dangerous and sakusa has banned him from doing it 8 times already.

hes actually so good at his job, hes just an idiot

theyre total assholes who chain smoke in the shop and swear at each other from across the room

the shop motto is "make them horny until they come back" and boy does it work

every single one of their clients transferred across the city with them when they moved

sakusa doesn't actually take new clients anymore, he just keeps up with regulars. he's very adamant about this

he is most often found in his office, which is also his private studio

the shop playlist consists of music added by sakusa, suna, and iwa -- they tried to get akaashi in on it but he got apple music just to spite them and wears his headphones when he works

suna can and WILL add the most unhinged shit to the playlist. there is a near-daily incident where sakusa tries to skip past suna's songs but suna keeps going back to them just to be annoying

this results in the shop being filled with the nonstop sound of skipping songs and sakusa screaming at him from his office

iwa usually joins in too because he has a short temper

akaashi always has to put his gun down and dissociate, because he can feel himself about to fuck up his lines with how hard his eye is twitching

akaashi has the least tattoos but that’s really not saying much; they have a board in sakusa’s office with the running count for each of them

everyone who comes in for the first time always sees two tattoo artists: iwa, who sits in the corner chain smoking and frowning and generally looking like he could kill you; and akaashi, who is generally polite and looks way less scary than iwa.

and they always choose akaashi, because he looks nice

he is not fucking nice. he is mean as shit. iwaizumi is the nicest one in that shop.

iwa so often is the type to roughly grumble "oh, yeah we can take a break -- this placement always hurts like a bitch. i need a smoke anyway" (hes already smoking).

akaashi keiji is the type to whisper "oh, did that hurt? pussy." and go in even more.

he is mean as shit and everyone makes this mistake.

sakusa and suna met in high school -- they would skip class together and sit behind the school smoking and blasting bass boosted music

theres something about running from campus security every day that bonds two people into brotherhood

theyre like,,,, fucking carbon copies of each other, these two -- two tall as fuck, tatted up, pierced up dudes with matching judgmental expressions and chipped black nail polish, standing outside the shop smoking, talking shit, and glaring at anyone who comes out of the stupid ass 3-in-1 shop next door

they met iwa and akaashi during their apprenticeship. they really didnt get along at first, but it takes a very unique combination of crazy to be able to open the kind of tattoo shop sakusa wanted.

and he had his combination of crazy right there in front of him.

iwa’s the most normal one and just wants to be akaashi’s friend. thats all he wants. he wants to make his silly little money and be akaashis silly little friend. 

iwa is the only one akaashi trusts for literally anything related to the shop but he wont ever say that

it's so painfully obvious that suna named their group chat. sakusa stopped trying to change it back years ago.

taglist = [open]

@mollyrolls @nectardaddy @onlytendoguesses @scinclaitnoir @marsoverthestars

@bookskeepers @choerry-picking @siheez @introvertsince2003 @eggyrocks

@atrashsith @beckixwsm @kakeru-eem @atsumusc0ck @seroh

@reignsaway @a-little-pebbl @bakingcuriosity @dondoncool @corvid007

@asthmaticcchoeee @liliumaraneae @savemebrazilhinata @whydoyoucare866

she put my hand up on her throat and told me // squeeze that shiiii-

squeeze [ghostemane].

[soul-invictus]

15 Questions

Hey @vayneoc, thanks fpr tagging me! 🖤

Are you named after anyone? I would really like to be named after the Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanova, but I'm not. No data on this question available, all I know is my dad thought was a great idea.

When was the last time you cried? Can't remember, I'm stone cold most of the time. It was probably a year ago a few weaks after my granny died.

Do you have kids? I am a 34yo kid.

Do you use sarcasm a lot? I do but try not to because most of people don't seem to understand sarcasm and get offended. Everyone gets so easily offended these days. Actually I'm an ironic kind and try to do everything with humor.

What sports do you play/have you played? Not much, too lazy for this. A few months in a vollyeball section at school. A few years of heavy lifting at the gym, could've gotten a candidate master's degree buuuuut, as was mentioned above, too lazy. Then life happened and I ditched it all.

What’s the first thing you notice about other people? It's how they behave, I'm not a fan of snobs and narrow-minded people. Those who are open, simple, honest and cheerful are my folks.

Eye colour? Blue.

Scary movies or happy endings? Scary movies with happy endings, happy movies with scary endings. It doesn't matter much, the movie must be good in general.

Any special talents? Can't say for sure. I just do what I do the best way I can.

Where were you born? Northern Russia, Yamal to be precise.

What are your hobbies? My work lol. Okay. Drawing (watercolor and digital), reading, knitting and crocheting (yep, I'm old), collecting figures, lifting weights, etc etc, but what occupies the most of my scarce time is VP (and gaming ofc). I worked as a retoucher for almost 15 years and wanted to be a photographer, so VP is a good opportunity not to lose any skill I got.

Do you have any pets? Had a few - a red-eared slider, a siamese and a scottish fold, a bunch of guppies, tiger barbs and catfishes. My late dog, of course, poor baby, miss her something awful :( Don't have time for any pets in the near future unfortunately. Would really like to have a dog someday.

How tall are you? 172cm, 5'6"/5'7"

Favourite subject in school? English and arts. I liked teachers more, not subjects. We had the best ones we could have.

Dream job? No need to dream, I have a dream job already. It's the biggest typography in the city and I'm open to print you whatever the hell you desire. But to be honest I've always dreamed not to work at all, just have a shitton of money and travel the world. I can't afford this in real life and it's not about the money - I don't have any free time. At all. Just work-work-work, like in Rihanna's song. I also would love to be a tattoo artist, buuuut this is not an option as well.

Don't know who to tag :D How about you folks? @scrinovskaya @kittenchrissy and @katsigian

[mantratattoousa]

Best Tattoo Shops near me

Whether you’re planning your first tattoo or adding to an existing collection, finding the best tattoo shop near me is crucial. Your tattoo is a permanent piece of art, so it’s essential to choose a place that prioritizes hygiene, quality, and creativity. Here's a guide to help you discover the top tattoo shops in your area and ensure you have a memorable and positive experience.

1. Research Online Reviews and Ratings

Before stepping into a tattoo shop, do your homework. Platforms like Google, Yelp, and social media sites are goldmines for customer reviews and ratings. Search for “best tattoo shops near me,” and you’ll find a list of highly-rated parlors in your area. Pay attention to the number of reviews and the average rating—shops with a high number of positive reviews are generally more reliable. Look for comments on the cleanliness of the shop, the professionalism of the artists, and the overall experience.

2. Check Out the Artists’ Portfolios

Tattooing is an art form, and each artist has a unique style. Whether you’re looking for delicate line work, bold traditional tattoos, or vibrant watercolor designs, it’s essential to find an artist who can bring your vision to life. Most reputable tattoo shops showcase their artists’ portfolios on their websites or social media pages. Spend some time browsing through their work to find someone whose style aligns with your idea.

3. Visit the Tattoo Shops

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, visit the tattoo shops in person. This allows you to get a feel for the atmosphere and cleanliness of the place. A good tattoo shop should be clean, organized, and have a welcoming environment. Don’t hesitate to ask about their sterilization processes—reputable shops will always prioritize hygiene and be transparent about their procedures.

4. Ask About the Artists’ Experience and Specialties

Tattooing is a skill that improves with experience. When you visit a shop, ask how long the artists have been tattooing and if they have any specialties. Some artists might excel at portraits, while others are masters of geometric designs or floral patterns. Finding an artist with experience in the style you want will ensure that you get a high-quality tattoo that meets your expectations.

5. Consider Pricing and Availability

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that you often get what you pay for with tattoos. High-quality tattoos are an investment, and it’s worth paying a little extra for an experienced artist and a clean, professional environment. Ask about the pricing and availability of the artists. Some top artists might have a waiting list, so plan accordingly if you’re looking to get inked by someone specific.

6. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off about a shop, the artist, or the process, it’s okay to walk away. Your comfort and safety are paramount, and there are plenty of great tattoo shops out there. Take your time to find the right one.

Conclusion

Finding the best tattoo shop near me doesn’t have to be daunting. By doing thorough research, checking out artists’ portfolios, and visiting the shops, you can ensure a positive and satisfying tattoo experience. Remember, your tattoo is a permanent piece of art on your body—choose a place that values quality, hygiene, and creativity to make sure you walk away with a piece you’ll love for years to come.

[solskinntattoostudio]

History, Trends, and Tips of Forearm Tattoos

Tattoos date back thousands of years, indicating that tattooing has a long and rich history. It is unknown, yet, where forearm tattoos specifically originated. Forearms are a popular place for tattoos; some accounts claim that sailors in the 18th and 19th centuries would acquire tattoos on their forearms with nautical themes. The trend has grown recently because forearm tattoos are visible and make it easy to flaunt and appreciate the artwork.

More and more people are choosing to get inked on this highly visible and functional area of their bodies, increasing the popularity of forearm tattoos in recent years. Forearm tattoos provide countless opportunities for artistic expression and self-expression, ranging from simple patterns to intricate masterpieces. This blog post will discuss the background, modern styles, and practical advice for having a forearm tattoo at the Best Tattoo shop Near Me.

The usage of minimalistic motifs is one of the main developments in forearm tattoos. These tattoos typically include delicate, tiny designs with simple, clean lines. They are ideal for people who want a modest tattoo that can be readily covered up if needed. Script or writing tattoos on the forearm is another fad. These can be made in a wide range of fonts and styles, as well as may contain meaningful quotes, names, or dates.

Watercolor tattoos have also been becoming increasingly popular in recent years, and the forearm is an excellent canvas for these vivid and colorful designs. These tattoos might be realistic, showing flowers, animals, or landscapes, or they can be abstract, with colorful splatters. Lastly, geometric designs are becoming more and more fashionable in forearm tattoos. These tattoos frequently have detailed lines and curves that give the forearm a dramatic, stunning appearance.

Tips for Getting a Forearm Tattoo at the Best Tattoo Shop Near Me

To guarantee a secure and fulfilling experience, you must do extensive research and select the top tattoo parlor in your area before getting a forearm tattoo. The following advice will help you choose the best tattoo shop near me regarding your forearm design:

1. Analyze the reviews - Go through internet reviews and get referrals from individuals who have tattooed at nearby establishments. This can let you assess the level of customer service and artwork at various tattoo parlors in Nagercoil’s renowned SolSkinn Tattoo Studio.

2. Examine the artists' portfolios – Every tattoo artist has a unique style and area of expertise, so be careful when reviewing their work to identify an artist who can realize your idea for a forearm tattoo.

3. Visit the shop beforehand - It's always a good idea to visit the tattoo shop before your appointment to get a feel for the atmosphere and hygiene standards. A reputable tattoo shop should have a clean and professional environment.

4. Communicate with your artist - It's important to express your ideas, expectations, and any worries you might have to the tattoo artist in a clear and concise manner. By doing this, you can sure that you both understand the situation and are happy with the outcome.

To sum up, forearm tattoos are an appreciated and adaptable form of body art that lets you express yourself. Getting a forearm tattoo at the best tattoo shop near me like SolSkinn Tattoo Studio may be a fun and safe experience if you do your homework and prepare beforehand. So go ahead and look through the countless options for forearm tattoos to select the ideal piece to adorn your arm!

[xposetattoo]

Tattoo in Jaipur: Finding the Best Tattoo Shop and Artist

Are you in Jaipur and looking to get a tattoo? Jaipur, known as the Pink City of India, is not only famous for its rich history and architecture but also for its vibrant tattoo culture. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist exploring the city, Jaipur offers a plethora of tattoo shops and talented tattoo artists to choose from. In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding the best tattoo shop and artist in Jaipur.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Exploring the Tattoo Culture in Jaipur

Choosing the Right Tattoo Shop

Finding a Skilled Tattoo Artist

Tattoo Styles and Designs in Jaipur

Tattoo Hygiene and Safety Standards

The Cost of Getting a Tattoo in Jaipur

Temporary Tattoos: A Popular Option

Additional Services: Ear Piercing and Tattoo Ink Supplies

Tattoo Shops Near Me: Locating the Nearest Options

Reviews and Recommendations: The Importance of Research

Showcasing Artistic Skills: The Best Tattoo Artists in Jaipur

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

FAQs

1. Introduction: Exploring the Tattoo Culture in Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is a hub of artistic expression. Over the years, the city has witnessed a surge in popularity when it comes to tattoos. The rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit of Jaipur have contributed to the growth of a thriving tattoo industry.

Tattoos are no longer seen as a symbol of rebellion; they have become a form of self-expression, art, and personal style. Jaipur has embraced this trend wholeheartedly, and you can find a wide range of tattoo shops and artists across the city.

2. Choosing the Right Tattoo Shop

When it comes to getting a tattoo, choosing the right tattoo shop is crucial. Consider the following factors:

Reputation: Look for a tattoo shop with a good reputation in Jaipur. Check online reviews, ratings, and testimonials from previous customers.

Cleanliness and Hygiene: Ensure that the tattoo shop follows strict cleanliness and hygiene standards. The equipment should be sterilized, and the artists should use disposable needles and gloves.

Portfolio: Examine the tattoo shop's portfolio to assess the quality of their work. This will give you an idea of their artistic style and capabilities.

3. Finding a Skilled Tattoo Artist

The expertise and skill of the tattoo artist play a significant role in the outcome of your tattoo. Consider the following points when choosing a tattoo artist in Jaipur:

Experience: Look for an artist with significant experience in the industry. Experienced artists have a better understanding of different tattoo styles and can offer valuable advice.

Specialization: Some tattoo artists specialize in specific styles, such as traditional, realism, watercolor, or geometric tattoos. Find an artist whose style aligns with your vision.

Certifications and Training: Check if the artist has undergone professional training and holds relevant certifications. This ensures that they are well-versed in the latest techniques and safety measures.

4. Tattoo Styles and Designs in Jaipur

Jaipur's tattoo artists are known for their versatility and creativity. You can find a wide variety of tattoo styles and designs to choose from, including:

Traditional Indian motifs and symbols

Rajasthani folk art

Mandala designs

Floral tattoos

Religious and spiritual symbols

Wildlife and nature-inspired tattoos

Custom designs based on your ideas

5. Tattoo Hygiene and Safety Standards

Maintaining high levels of hygiene and safety is paramount in the tattoo industry. Reputable tattoo shops in Jaipur strictly adhere to hygiene protocols, which include:

Using sterilized equipment and disposable needles

Thoroughly disinfecting the tattoo area before and after the procedure

Practicing proper hand hygiene and wearing gloves throughout the process

Providing aftercare instructions to prevent infection and promote healing

6. The Cost of Getting a Tattoo in Jaipur

The cost of a tattoo in Jaipur varies depending on several factors, including the size, complexity, and location of the tattoo. Additionally, the experience and reputation of the artist may also influence the price. It's advisable to discuss the cost with your chosen tattoo artist during the consultation phase.

7. Temporary Tattoos: A Popular Option

If you're not ready for a permanent tattoo or want to experiment with different designs, temporary tattoos are an excellent choice. Many tattoo shops in Jaipur offer temporary tattoos that can last for a few days or weeks. This allows you to test out different designs and placements before committing to a permanent tattoo.

8. Additional Services: Ear Piercing and Tattoo Ink Supplies

Some tattoo shops in Jaipur offer additional services, such as ear piercing and tattoo ink supplies. If you're interested in getting your ears pierced or need high-quality tattoo ink, inquire about these services at the tattoo shop.

9. Tattoo Shops Near Me: Locating the Nearest Options

If you're searching for a tattoo shop near your location, various online platforms and directories can help you find the nearest options. These platforms provide information about the shop's address, contact details, customer reviews, and ratings.

10. Reviews and Recommendations: The Importance of Research

Before finalizing your decision, it's essential to conduct thorough research. Read reviews, testimonials, and recommendations from previous customers to gauge the quality of service and customer satisfaction. This step will help you make an informed choice and ensure a positive tattoo experience.

11. Showcasing Artistic Skills: The Best Tattoo Artists in Jaipur

Jaipur is home to many talented tattoo artists. Here are some highly recommended tattoo artists in Jaipur:

[Artist Name 1]: Specializes in geometric tattoos and intricate designs.

[Artist Name 2]: Known for realistic portrait tattoos.

[Artist Name 3]: Expertise in traditional Indian and Rajasthani folk art tattoos.

Make sure to check their portfolios and reviews to find an artist whose style resonates with your preferences.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long does a tattoo procedure usually take? A1: The duration of a tattoo procedure varies depending on the design's complexity, size, and the individual's pain tolerance. It can range from a few minutes for a small tattoo to several hours for a larger, intricate design.

Q2: Does getting a tattoo hurt? A2: The level of pain experienced during a tattoo session varies from person to person. While some people describe it as a mild discomfort, others may find it more intense. However, modern tattooing techniques and numbing creams can help minimize the discomfort.

Q3: How should I take care of my new tattoo? A3: After getting a tattoo, follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. This usually involves keeping the tattoo clean, avoiding excessive exposure to sunlight, and applying a recommended ointment or lotion to aid healing.

[wallpaperpainting]

12 Small But Important Things To Observe In Watercolor Artists Near Me | watercolor artists near me

HANCOCK — A adulation of art and a adulation of attributes became a acceptable aggregate for a Hancock home schooler.

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Annelie Kolbe took third abode in the anniversary fifth-grade Arbor Day affiche challenge sponsored by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Her efforts becoming bristles chargeless trees, which she affairs to bulb in a atom area they can be enjoyed by abounding people.

The affair for this year’s challenge was “Trees are Terrific … in All Four Seasons!”

Annelie’s access shows copse abiding in a amphitheater and done up for the seasons — blooming in the spring, blooming in the summer, checkered in the abatement and bald in the winter.

The concept, she said, was “kind of like a blush wheel, but with copse in the altered seasons. … It took me about three times until I got the one I liked.”

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She acclimated watercolor and acrylic paints, as able-bodied as black pencils, to actualize the poster.

Annelie, who afresh acclaimed her 11th birthday, said she consistently has been absorbed in nature. She and her sister, Sadie, 8, go to programs at the Wind Dance Farm and Earth Education Center abreast Berkeley Springs, W.Va.

“It’s absolutely awesome,” she said. “We’ve gone there for, like, three years now.”

She has consistently been absorbed in art, too. She said she comes by it naturally.

“My mom and dad are both artists,” she said.

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Her father, Sean Kolbe, is a web designer, she said, and her mother, Kate Kolbe, advised architecture in college.

Kate Kolbe said Annelie “does all sorts of art projects. … She loves art. She’s consistently cartoon and painting and creating.”

When the ancestors abstruse about the contest, Annelie “quickly had account — about immediately, I would say,” Kate said.

The Maryland Forest Service accustomed hundreds of entries.

Posters initially were advised on a canton level. The winners were submitted to the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Committee to attempt at the statewide level.

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The accompaniment affiche challenge is advised annually by a console of forestry experts and a appropriate bedfellow judge, Maryland aboriginal adult Yumi Hogan.

“Every year, I attending advanced to this anniversary tradition, which shines ablaze on the aesthetic aptitude and ecology affection of adolescent Marylanders beyond our state,” Hogan said a account release.

The aboriginal adult is an artisan and accessory assistant at the Maryland Institute Academy of Art.

Lola Lugard of Sykesville took aboriginal abode in the contest. Her academy will accept 15 copse for planting. Angela Webb of Easton took additional and was awarded 10 trees.

Annelie won bristles trees.

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[imagines-to-quench-thirst]

Dating a tattoo artist

Imagine: being a tattoo artist and your boyfriend being part of it

This was a fun idea I had. I hope you like it. Enjoy ❤️

Victor Creed

-he is here for it

-since his loooooonnnnggg life is well long he loves to tells stories of tattoo artists he met Japan, Brazil, New York, New Zeland...

-and you can bet that he will have the most elaborate tattoo you can think of since he said so

'You want a tattoo? From me?'

'Yes, I trust you.'

'That's the problem, Vic, you could end up with a dolphin tattoo on your arm.'

'.... Well... I still trust you?'

-after that, he was a little bug just to be on your good side which you took full advantage of

Being on top, commanding him? Sure

Handing you the remote even though it's next to you? Of course

Helping you choose an outfit even though you are indecisive and he has a short fuse? Hell yeah.

-when the day came you tattooed him a small quote that described him

"Tough times never last but tough people do"

(Robert H. Shuller)

'I love it. Thank you kitten.'

Loki Laufeyson

-Since he was in the cell for most of his life (in my universe that's the worst thing happening for him, he didn't die nor his mother) he doesn't know what a tattoo artist is he thinks that's an alternative art form he is supportive

-after you talk to him describing the definition of tattoos and the art behind it he is very much perplexed

'So mortals pay you to pierce their skin with black ink to paint...something????'

'Tattoo something on their skin and yes.'

'With pain in mind?????'

'Yes, and it looks awesome.'

-when he heard the story of your tattoo shop he decided to tag along to see the magic

-he saw how men and women tattooed others while they squirmed in their seats he chuckled at the sight of it

'Darling you could have told me.'

'What?'

'You torture people with the needle machines and coax them into paying you. Brilliant.'

'Suree~~~~'

-he stayed with you to help you with the pain giving without a medical license

'I'm a God. I'm above it.'

'No one is above the Inspection.'

Thor Odinson

-since his depression and weight gain he is very much informed of the world of MTV tattoo show "How far is tattoo far?"

-so he very much thinks that tattoos are a stamp of disgrace

-and keeping that in mind he is frazzled why are you doing a job like that

'You are a shame barer?'

'Shame-what...? Thor! I'm not. The show is a disgrace to the tattoo world.'

'Shame~~barer~~~'

'Just come with me and spend one day and see it for yourself.'

-Thor is reluctant much to his words but still, you sat him down in the waiting lobby he chats up the customers a.k.a big muscular dudes that are already tattooed from the neck down

'So... what is your shame? What horrible deed have you done to come here?'

'Excuse me!?'

'You must be here to condemn your shame by immortalizing it with a flesh sticker.'

-at this point, the muscle dude stood up ready to attack Thor but you intervene quickly

'Marc, stop!'

-the man turned around hiding his tight fist behind his back

'Y/n, already done? That's fast.'

'Marc, you know that you were released 7 months ago and you are still on parole. Come on. Stop it.'

'He insulted me and-and my tattoos. Your tattoos. You know how am about your work.'

-Thor hears that as stands up grabbing Marc's arm examining the tattoos in amazement

'My darling, I want that felsh sticker as he has.'

'.......... Sure........ Wait here. Let's go, Marc. I need to vent.'

Steve Rogers

-Steve knows what tattoos are since he has seen the stick and poke of his fellow soldiers but never a photorealistic tattoo in your portfolio

-he is very much intrigued how you made that look like a real person on someone's skin knowing very well there is no eraser

-loves to ask how do you achieve such colors that simply jump out or how you make a fabric that of a shirt or some patterns, he is armed with questions

-and since he is an art wizard himself he loves to have a painting duel with you, you paint on his skin with watercolors and he paints on the canvas

-that's one of his favorite moments

'What did you draw?'

'A dolphin kissing a penguin.'

'What?!'

'Just kidding I painted the building in Brooklyn where you lived.'

'Did I tell you how much I love you?'

Bucky Barnes

-this man thrives to see you fulfill your dream and passion

-especially when he picks you up, he parks the car exiting it and walking in seeing you talk to your employees and customers exchanging stories and laughs even though in the near distance is the buzzing sounds of the machine guns

-you see him and grab his hand giving him a peck on his lips as a cheeky grin is stuck on his face

-as you talk about your day he always asks the question

'Were there any wusses?'

-alluding to men who cried out form the stinging pain, eventually tapping out to take a break

'Yes, a big dude Marc. Ordered a neck tattoo with details. Tapped out in 15 minutes.'

'I knew it!'

-he enjoys in the hilarious stories you can make up... I mean tell

Bruce Wayne

-you already know the drill he has money he will give it to you but politely delined

-he tried to help with purest of heart but still, the answer was no

-he loved to see your shop filled with many customers as he walked incognito, sunglasses and a cap saying he wasn't a private appointment with the head tattooer

-Let's just say you were pretty much in tears of laughter as he reveled his face

'At least you tried, Bruce.'

-he loves to talk about tattoos and the process of healing if it's on top of a scar

-you are hooked on the conversation and even make him some sketches

'A huge dragon on your back with black and gold lining.'

'Okay but how about initials of my parents?'

'That sounds... Better much much better.'

-so the day of his tattooing comes you tattoo in his inner arm putting the letter T. & M. W.

'Thank you Princess.'

Clark Kent

-Clark loves to see the vast tattoos so much that he wants one but he knows that his body will "absorb" the tattoo too fast making it disappear in a few months maybe weeks

-but still, he loves to see how your gaze is sharp focused on the tattooing even when HE walks that is how much you are focused

'Alrighty, Marc you are done.'

'Thanks, Y/n, you are the best.'

-Clark also loves to hear the influx of comments of your artistry even if he's a little jealous

-he loves to see just how much you are happier to follow this insane passion

'You are an inspiration Y/n.'

'Why?'

'Because... You just are.'

Arthur Curry

-you already know that Fishman is tatted to perfection and he is here for a tattoo lover as well

-if you ever have someone asking for a Maori style tattoo Arthur will be a fair judge, that's what he says

Case#1

'Why do you want a Maori tattoo?'

'Um, sir beca-'

'It's Mr. Aquaman. Continue.'

'Oh, sorry. Mr. Aquaman, I want it because I find them cool.'

'Just cool? Do you think that the abundant culture of Maori people is cool? Go home boy.

Case #2

'You want a Ta Moko? Do you what that is?'

'Sur-sure, it's a tattoo of the Maori people.'

'Ufff... Do you know how much of a meaning Ta Moko carries? Why don't you go to the Yakuzas and get a tebori.'

'They would kill me.'

'Of course, and I'll whoop your uncultured ass with my two hands.'

-you turned to the now pale boy

'Run.'

-the man ran like the wind as the Aquaman caught him easily giving him a cultural lesson of Ta Moko

Orm Marius

-he kinda has a small soft spot for tattoos especially those with a loving meaning lover, family...

-and he likes to "inform himself" about it so he asks a ton of questions even asking what kind of tattoo would suit him

'I think a small red tattoo would suit your taste.'

'I like the tattoos who can hold audios.'

-with that sentence, he left you frazzled as you google and got the special ink kit gifting it to Orm as a present for being a nice guy and not killing anyone

-he immediately records his audio in secrecy and handing you the ink

-after you tattoo the ink you hand him your phone with the app to scan the audio

'Hey, Orm. I'm just reminding you that I love you. So much. It's Y/n if you forget... Somehow.'

-later that day you doused him with kisses

Joker

-that man oozes with tattoos *cough*damaged*cough*

-and you can bet that he wants more of them he brings into your home the whole tattoo parlor just so he can have a private session with sex mixed in

-you gladly tattoo him patching up some of his tattoos he has outgrown them

'Why did you tattoo Kick Me on your back?'

'I won a bet.'

'Are you sure you won?'

'For sake of this question I did.'

-you cover the kick me tattoo with a large red dragon with green eyes

-he stands up looking at the tattoo in the mirror

'Sweets, you just got a huge tip.'

Duncan Vizla

-for him, tattoo nowadays are dumb in his time tattoos were means of solidarity with people who are bounded by the same ink and gun

-but keeps his mouth shut about it not to offend your dream even if it's tattooing dancing hotdogs

-he loves to pass your parlor when he finishes grocery shopping just to see you in action

-he loves to arrive at the parlor if you are doing a night shift just to keep you safe and in good company

-he loves to bring you lunch and watch you eat it with such content and happiness

-it melts his heart and just wants to make you more food

-but as he is present for the good he is here for the bad

-if he is somewhere anywhere you just need to call him and he is there in a minute be it a drunken person not wanting to exit or an aggressive man trying to grope someone in the shop

-he is ready to kill them if you say so

'You okay sweetheart?'

'Um-yeah...Thank you Donut.'

'Nonsense. That's my duty.'

[tmnt-brave-new-world]

Good evening gentlemen, and welcome. My name is Blossom. I hope y'all, and your Mun, are well, and hope this hasn't been asked of the others, If you have a spare time in your day, how do you enjoy passing it? And if you don't mind my asking one more question...Leo, I heard you've studied and enjoy music, art. Do you have a preferred medium in either? Thank you kindly.

Good evening Ms. Blossom,

 its a pleasure to meet you. Myself and Raph have already answered this, however Mikey and Donnie have not been asked this of yet.

Donnie flicked his eyes from his older brother back to the small brunette before giving a small nod of his head. “Right. I’m afraid my down time is limited. Even with our extended life spans, there never seems to be enough time for all of the projects I have planned. I do however make it a point to pull myself away from work so that I rest properly, eat three times a day and groom myself as needed. I have also learned that stopping when I’m starting to feel fatigued is necessary if I plan to continue in a productive fashion.”

“I enjoy gardening, and studying the different needed variables within the contained ecosystems in which I create. There is something to be said about being able to take the time and learn such a rudimentary art. It also reminds me of the days in the resistance when the time needed to grow nutritional food was almost no existent. I take great pride in what I create, and the resistant strains of certain species of fruit and vegetable I have managed to create with my knowledge of genetics and field observations. I also enjoy dabbling in each of my brothers hobbies. they would be loathe to admit it, but they become so excited over their favorite topics and the knowledge they can share. Its nice to see that sense of peace on each of their collective faces.”

“Another area of interest is archeology, from collecting fossils to ancient jewelry, a tie to the past has always been of significant interest. I believe my bothers enjoy playing in the dirt when I go to a dig site, or harvest a crop as a type of trade off for time spent with each of them.”

“Raph and I work on different mechanics and converting both classic cars and the newest toy into something that works better than originally planned, or is better suited for one of use to use. I’ve had to make a special booster seat insert for when someone drives them as a result however.”

“I have attended many a gala and charity event with Leo, He has a sizable art, and artifacts collections that can be observed in many rooms of the house. Albeit he does have me research each event to make sure the big ticket items aren’t stolen or haven’t been reported as missing since the fall of Earth.” 

“Mikey is always looking for someone to attend the opening of new restaurants or to assess some type of new technique related to a style of art he’s suddenly become interested in. I’ll allow his to explain in further detail, however.”

Mikey shot her a big grin before he started in, “I guess I’m next?” 

“Man I don’t think I really have a job so its always down time for me!” The turtle laughed good naturedly. I enjoy bringing people happiness and the best way I have found to do that is with my ability to create. I love being able to have the freedom to create in a wide array of formats. I can use multiple techniques to paint in a multitude of styles. I can sculpt. I can weave. I am actually certified to create and Tattoo. I can blow glass sculptures and pieces. I can carve objects from wood, stone or just about any other medium reasonably well. I can cook, and have actually been featured on a few cooking shows and competitions. I can also sew, which has lead me to creating and collaborating with a lot of other artist.”

 “Time in the resistance let we with a jack of all trades kind of mentality. If its something I think I might be able to learn or understand, I go all in and learn it. I actually learned how to perform professional level autobody work for Raph and Donnie, for when they wanted to be able to do customizations on cars but neither could explain to a body shop what exactly it was they wanted. I even spent several months in the mountains of Tibet and Morocco learning about the different techniques related to ancient dyes and leather tanning techniques.”

“I tend to take contracts and commissions from people when I feel like it. Its awesome because a lot of the time I never know what exactly someone is going to ask for and because of my skills I can combine things in ways that no one has ever thought about before!”

“One of my favorite things to do with my down time though is that I actually teach several classes online and through zoom regarding basic techniques such as cooking, cleaning, sewing, and basic adulting. I found it really shocking how many kids and adults didn’t have these skills after we took back Earth and that their lives seemed to suffer for it. So I did what I do best and I started youtube videos on how to do it and then started offering free classes that are coordinated with local community centers and libraries to help those who need it but may not be able to try it due to lack of resources. I of course send all the needed supplies to the sites that sponsor these classes, so that they aren’t anything for offering to help!”

“For the second part of your question Miss Blossom,” Leo gave an unusually shy smile, “I’m no where near as talented as my brother, but I enjoy painting still life and landscapes. I can use acrylics, oils and watercolor with varying degrees of success. There is something cathartic about slowly transforming a canvas or trying new techniques. As for Music I can play the piano and a few classic songs to completion. I have attempted to learn the violin and the guitar but am no where near sufficient for anyone to hear, except for Mikey who acts as my instructor most evenings.”

[friendlylocalwhumper]

flower

“It shouldn’t be too painful,” Explains the artist, politely refraining from staring as Emory takes hold of Lux’s hand. “Any work done over bone hurts, like on top of your foot over over your ribs, those are the worst spots.” After cleaning the spot he’ll be working on, he presses a wet paper to Lux’s collarbone to leave behind the washable outline of the tattoo he’ll be getting. “Seems like you have a high tolerance for pain, though.”

Lux squeezes Emory’s hand, bare forearm visibly tensing. The tattoo artist has guided him to lie back on an inclined chair, his shirt handed off to Emory. But it’s safe. There are no restraints - he’s paying for this, even, so he knows it’ll stop when he needs it to.

The artist dips the needle at the end of the little gun in a tiny cup of ink. “No shame in being nervous. I still get nervous when I get mine done.”

“I, yeah, it’s just - just new.”

“Yeah, I feel you. Ready? It’ll sting.”

Lux nods and tries not to watch the tattoo gun nearing his skin. “‘m ready.”

The machine turns on, buzzing loudly, the needle visibly vibrating. It looks blurry from how fast it’s moving. Lux squeezes Emory’s hand harder. He’s imagining that it’ll feel like a knife plunging into his skin, dragging along bone. He’s felt that before. But people at tattoo parlors don’t usually scream in pain, do they? Maybe they’re just the kinds of people who can tough it out.

A small burning sensation starts up at his collarbone. Maybe the gun is near, now, but he doesn’t want to tip his head down to see, doesn’t want to jostle the thing and piss off the guy leaning over him.

“Is it close, yet?” The warlock asks, staring up at the ceiling. Over the pitchy buzzing of the tool, the artist replies.

“Already started, buddy. Working on the stem first.”

Oh! Lux huffs out a surprised chuckle and squeezes Emory’s hand again, this time feeling confident. This isn’t pain. He waits as the work continues, wondering if the needle will be pressed deeper, if the hand keeping him steady by pressing lightly on his shoulder will shove down harder - but it just stays the same, the discomfort never plummeting into pain, the pressure never stern enough to make him scared.

“‘s not that bad,” He comments, then adds more, louder so he can be heard. “Doesn’t hurt.”

“Hurts, you said?” Asks the tattooer, and the gun shuts off, quiet falling over the small room with steampunk decorations.

Lux laughs, awed by the instant, professional concern. “No, I said it doesn’t hurt. Was just, surprised.”

“Oh! Yeah. Some dudes cry, some barely feel it. You good to keep going?”

“Uh-huh.” Lux holds his breath until the sound starts back up so he doesn’t flinch, and the stinging returns.

A short while later, Emory says, “Just letting you know, Lux, it’s been - uh - sorry, my phone turned off - oh, been half an hour.” Lux smiles at the update meant to help him keep track of time, so he doesn’t have to ask and worry about annoying the artist. It can’t be ten minutes later that the tattooer shuts off the gun, wipes away the blood, touches up some spots, and then sets everything back on the table, the gun silent and the bloody wipes thrown away.

“There. How’s it look?” A small mirror is placed in Lux’s left hand so he can lift it to the best angle. Lux does, glancing excitedly over at Emory, then inspecting the tattoo.

Across his right collarbone, a flower lies at an angle, the outline thin and black, the inside of the stem forest green, the petals golden yellow and gently splayed out. The watercolor-style filling of the colors looks so, so beautiful.

“I love it, it’s - that’s exactly what I wanted.” A smile breaks across his face. “Isn’t it great, Em?”

Emory leans forward at the invitation to see, grinning in equal measure. “You look so cool, Curls.”

“Not too bad for your first tat, huh?” The artist comments, patting the design dry and pressing a sterile bandage over it. As he explains how to clean and maintain the art, Emory listens to remember, and Lux listens to be polite, thinking excitedly about his new tattoo all the while.

As Lux and Emory walk out of the shop, Lux rolls up his sleeves casually to feel the sun on his skin. “That was easy.”

“You did great! I was worried about him leaning over you, and you having to take your shirt off, that’d freak me out if it was me.” It wouldn’t really, but it’s kind to say. “But you were so calm about it, and you didn’t even need a break when it started.”

“It didn’t hurt!” Lux is beaming. “I can’t believe it didn’t hurt. And he didn’t even ask about my scars, I guess that’s how he knew it wouldn’t hurt for me, ‘cause of those. It went by so fast!”

They walk the rest of the way home, hand in hand, both glowing with the excitement of having something new, after the adventure of getting the first tattoo between them. As it heals in the coming days, it itches and burns a bit, but the rest of Lux’s scars itch, too, and he’s had worse discomfort, so it’s easy to ignore.

A polaroid picture of Lux lying on their bed, shirtless, healed tattoo gracing his collarbone as he smiles, hangs on their fridge pinned by a magnet painted like a ladybug.

Half-asleep and cuddly, sometimes, Emory tugs Lux close and kisses right on the petals of that flower. Lux blushes every time, nearly giddy to have something small and wonderful and all his own above all the scars that have been carved into him. When he touches it, when he sees it in the mirror, he remembers the feeling of Emory’s hand in his, feels the safety of being in public, being shirtless and under a stranger, yet somehow staying relaxed. If one little tattoo can make him feel so confident, so loved, so himself, then he can’t wait to get more. More flowers, some stars, maybe even some discreet phrases in Latin, wherever on his body he wants, as big or as small as he wants. They can cover scars, or wind around them, or cross over them indifferently.

For the first time in… for the first time ever, really, Lux feels like his body is his own. He feels like it just might be beautiful.

[jetblackfuturehearts]

I saw a few artists in the community doing this and In light of recent events I thought I should too!

if you make or have made a donation of any size to an organization below and show me the proof, i’ll make a personalized, post card sized original drawing or watercolor/acrylic painting of anything you want! this includes selfies, pets, loved ones, pictures you’ve taken, quotes, small black and white tattoo designs, album covers, frogs, etc. just dm me and we’ll work something out

some organizations you can donate to are:

Black Visions Collective

Reclaim the Block

North star Health Collective

We Love Lake Street

and you can donate to any other organization you know or have researched as well that helps this cause!

i’ll be completely in charge of dropping off or shipping if you don’t live near me! All i want is to be able to help out in the way that i know best. It’s needless to say that the events that have taken place in Minneapolis this week are nothing short of devastating and my heart mourns with the black community. This is the least I can do to help support where it’s needed most. Feel free to share this post or if you’re an artist or creator of some sort, copy it

[hellas-himself]

Crack Ship Holidays

Friendsgiving Pt. 4 

“I love that vermillion, Cora. Good choice,” I say as Cora dips her brush into the paint again. She beams at me and I pat her shoulder before continuing on. I have the kindergarteners and first graders painting to their hearts’ content. ‘What do you think of when I say the word autumn?’ Some children are painting leaves, others foxes and just a mess of color, and I love it.

Ten minutes before class is over, I show them how to clean up their brushes. How to store them. We have a few hiccups, but it’s nothing I can’t fix. I have second and third grade working on watercolor galaxies and reflections in a body of water. 

Fourth grade is my last class before lunch. Aelin’s goddaughter, Evangeline, had volunteered to help me with our lesson in shadows and light. She sits on a chair in the front of the class while another student shuts the lights off. I turn on all four studio lights and Evangeline tries not to laugh at the sudden focus on her.

“Ms. Archeron?”

I look over to see Heather raising her hand.

“Hm?”

“Who was that guy who carried the lights in for you?”

I smirk. Cassian had driven me to work this morning to help me bring them in. He had kept them for me in the attic at home all this time-

“A friend,” I say and make my way to the front of the classroom.

“Your special friend?”  

“Yes,” I say, and get a bunch of little laughs and snickering. “In fact, he’s an artist as well. And what I’m showing you today is something he has to do every day. But in order to shade and highlight, we have to understand our source of light and how that light reflects back onto our subject.”

*

Aelin and I sit in the teachers’ lounge at lunch time. She’s grading papers while I heat up our lunch; Cassian made me so much food I decided to split it between the both of us.

“How are you holding up?” she asks as I set a plate down before her.

“It’s going pretty well. I think I’m going to keep it simple. We only have two days of school this week and it seems pointless to throw something new at them just to have to do it again after break.”

“Smart.” She pushes her papers aside and pulls the plate closer to herself. “Does Cassian always make you lunch?”

I laugh. “No. Sometimes we go somewhere to eat.”

“I wish Ro worked a little closer. I mean, I wanted to be closer to home- there’s a school by our house but it wasn’t a good fit.”

“He works with Elide’s husband, right?”

Aelin rolls her eyes. “Lorcan. And all his other ridiculous friends. If you were single, I’d totally hook you up with one of them. I swear they all look like they’ve walked out of a runway or something.”

“I feel the same way about Rhys and Azriel.”

“You all seem really close… How did you meet?”

“We grew up together… Mor and I became friends in like… third grade. Rhysand’s parents adopted Cas and Azriel and pretty much raised Mor, too. So we’ve kinda always been together. I started dragging Lucien along with me to get him out of the house and the rest is history.”

Aelin laughs. “That’s… That’s cute.”

“What about you and Rowan?”

She sighs. “I hated his guts when I met him. He’s my cousin Aedion’s best friend so he was always at my house on weekends and afterschool when they had football practice. He irritated my soul.”

“When did it change?”

“Oh, it never changed. He gets on my nerves but I love it. I love him- we’ve been through a lot of shit together.”

Aelin’s eyes widen and she reaches into her back pocket for her phone.

“Speak of the devil,” she murmurs and answers it. “Hiiiiii handsome. Come say hi to Feyre.”

Aelin moves to fit me in the screen with her despite his protests. Rowan doesn’t even have a shirt on.

“Hey, Feyre! Forgive her- I’m at the gym, so…”

“Understood,” I say with a laugh.

“Cassian made us lunch,” Aelin says to him and before she moves the phone away, I can see the frown on his face. “It’s amazing.”

She looks my way and winks.

*

Sixth grade is packing up for the day. I gave them free reign to choose what they worked on today and only interceded when asked. I had some working on pencil sketches, others on acrylic paintings. One girl brought copic markers to class and was working on a little comic strip that I immediately fell in love with. Pastels, oils and watercolors- I gave permission to a group in the back that wanted to spray paint this random piece of plywood that had been sitting in the closet. No one knew why or how it got there.

The door opens and I look up at the clock before I look at who walked in. Cassian grins and gives the class a quick hello. I get up from my chair and blush when the kids start teasing as fourth grade had.

“Class, this is Cassian. Cas, these are my sixth graders.”

“Is that a tattoo?” someone asks. When I look, Alice was holding up her hand.

“Uh, yeah. I’m a tattoo artist,” Cas answers rather bashfully. And the class collectively loses their shit. I cover my mouth, and try not to laugh as question after question gets thrown at him.

“Alright, alright, guys,” I say at last. “We’ve got like… two minutes before the bell rings. If you want, I can ask the principal to have him-”

I get interrupted by multiple voices already agreeing to have Cassian come to class. I laugh it off and wrap my arms around his. I lead him to my desk and have him sit in my chair before I go to lean on the desk.

“I’m really proud of the work you did today,” I say. “If you haven’t already done so, I need the entry slips for the winter art show. If you want to but haven’t come up with an idea, I have no issue helping you figure that out.”

After a chorus of thank yous, the bell rings. I wait until the last kid walks out to push myself off the desk and tie up my hair.

“I have to put away some stuff, then we can go,” I say and Cassian gets to his feet.

“Tell me what to do,” he says to me and rolls up his sleeves.

*

I lock the classroom and look at Cassian who is holding my bag.

“All done,” I say and reach out for the bag. He raises a brow.

“I’ve got it, bunny.”

“Well, if you insist.” I bat my lashes at him and he laughs as he reaches out for my hand.

“I do,” he says and we walk towards the front office.

“Are you up for going with me to the store?” he asks. “I need to start the pernil for Thursday.”

“Of course! I’m making apple pie, remember?”

Cassian flashes me a grin. “You’ll make one just for us, right?”

His voice is conspiratorial and I want nothing more than to push him against the lockers and kiss him.

“What kind of question is that, Cassian?”

“Just making sure,” he says innocently. I open the door that leads into the main office.

“I love you,” I say and briskly turn the corner.

“I love you, too, bunny.”

Cassian nearly bumps into me when I stop suddenly. Tamlin… Tamlin is here.

“Bunny, what-”

I want to walk away but I can’t move. Briar notices me and she beams.

“Feyre!” she exclaims and walks around her desk. “I’m so glad I caught you.”

Cassian stands beside me and I don’t miss the way Tamlin blanches slightly.

“This is my boyfriend, Tamlin,” she says cheerfully and takes his hand. “Tam, this is Feyre, the new art teacher I was telling you about.”

He gives me a curt nod.

“That’s her boyfriend, Cassian. He’s just…” She sighs wistfully. “He helped her set up class this morning. He’s an artist, too!”

I feel Cassian take my hand and I find my ability to speak again.

“Well, thank you for that, Bri… But we have to go-”

“Oh, yeah! Friendsgiving, right? I was telling Tam about it but our parents are so… traditional.”

“Bronn invited us for dinner on Friday,” Tamlin says, his voice rough. Briar laughs and gently taps her temple.

“Silly me, I forgot! Well. I don’t want to keep you. We should hang out some time! Maybe a double date or something.”

“Yeah,” I say with a laugh and look up at Cas.

“There’s a movie in the park coming up,” Cassian says to Briar. “Rowan invited us, I don’t think he’d mind if you tagged along.”

Aelin would no doubt eat Tamlin alive, but I don’t say that. I merely smile.

“Think about it,” Cassian continues, his nonchalance is enviable. “Well, it was nice meeting you, but bunny and I really gotta go. Our dog gets antsy after a while.”

Briar waves at us enthusiastically while Tamlin just remains frozen in place. I hear Briar excitedly gushing over Cassian’s pet name for me and I swear I hear Tamlin groan. Cassian hauls my bag over his shoulder as I open the front door, but Cassian doesn’t let me go, even after he puts the bag in the back seat. He opens my door but instead of lifting me up into my seat, he pulls me in for a hug.

“Want me to take you home?” he asks me softly.

“No… No, I want to go with you.” I pull back enough to look up at him. “I need it.”

“Alright.”

“And… we’ll talk about it later?”

Cassian nods and kisses me.

*

I have my laptop open on the kitchen counter playing Christmas music. Cassian has his hair tied up and is wearing grey sweatpants and a white shirt- no doubt on purpose. God, he looks fucking good. Valo is pretty bummed that Cassian won’t let him near the pernil for Thursday so he’s moping at my feet.

“Has it been like an hour?” I ask Cas as I look over the apples sitting in the bowl.

“No,” Cas replies with a chuckle. “I thought you put a timer on.”

I shrug. “I forgot.”

Cassian looks back at me and just smiles and shakes his head. He goes back to seasoning the pernil and I slide off the barstool.

“Need help?” I ask and he shakes his head.

“You being here is enough.”

I have no witty come back. Nothing funny to say. Last November, I was a wreck. I had only gone to our annual Friendsgiving dinner because Cassian and Mor practically dragged me out of bed…

I blink- Cassian kissed me.

“Get out of your head,” he says softly.

I lean back against the counter, mindful of all the bottles and glass containers of seasonings he has around him.

“I don’t know how I would have reacted if you hadn’t been there,” I say quietly. “But at least I know why he’s stopped calling me.”

“He was still calling you?”

I give him a nod.

“Why didn’t you say anything?”

“Well, the last time he did, Nesta showed up at the apartment and then you came over and stayed the night. It didn’t really matter by then.”

Cassian smirks.

“She’s too nice for him,” Cassian says. “I can’t even imagine how that happened.”

“I wonder if Aelin’s met him.”

“Aelin would never keep her dislike for someone to herself. Believe me.”

I roll my eyes, but he’s right.

“Can I ask you something, Cas?”

“Mhm.”

“Will it bother you… me working there and him knowing, I mean.”

Cas sighs. “I always worry that you’ll bump into him when I’m not around… I see your sister every now and then- it’s not completely avoidable. But this is your career. He can’t take that from you.”

He leans over and kisses me again.

“I’ll never let him hurt you again.”

“I know.”

Cassian’s phone goes off and he asks me to check it for him. I let out a laugh.

“Thank you,” I say as I turn the alarm labeled ‘REMOVE THE APPLES, BUNNY’ off and lock his phone.

*

I wake up to Cassian’s alarm. I reach over to find his side of the bed cold. With a groan I get up and crawl over to his side of the bed and shut the damn alarm off. I hear the back door open and close, Valo’s excited bark at whatever Cassian is saying to him.

After washing up and throwing on one of his shirts, I go find him. The second I open the door I can smell the food in the kitchen. It smells like heaven. When I walk into the kitchen, Cassian is by the stove. The pernil is in the oven and on the stove is what I assume to be breakfast.

“It’s so early Cas,” I say with a yawn.

“The pernil wasn’t going to cook itself, bunny.”

I make my way to him and hug him from behind. He puts his hand over mine.

“Go back to bed,” he says softly. ���I know you’re off for the rest of the week.”

“Your phone doesn’t think so.”

Cassian chuckles. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay,” I say with a sigh. “I get to be with you longer.”

School had ended early on Tuesday and we had yesterday off as well. I had spent the day cleaning the house and playing outside with Val.

“Now that you’re awake, I can get started on the coquito.”

“Hm… Now you’re talking.”

*

“Hey, bunny, everything is in the truck,” Cas says. I look through the mirror to see him peeking through the door.

“I’m done.” I look back in the mirror and give myself a quick once over. Cassian walks into the bathroom and I can’t help but blush by the way he’s looking at me.

“I really like that skirt,” he says as he comes to stand behind me.

“Yeah? I like your shirt.” My deep red mini skirt matches his button up shirt. I have an oversized long sleeved shirt tucked into it and black tights with heeled boots. I like his black pants too, but he already knows that.

“You look beautiful, bunny.”

“Thank you, handsome.”

I turn to face him and give him a kiss.

“Let’s get Val and get out of here,” he says, and kisses me again.

*

There are spots in my vision from all the pictures we have taken. Rhysand’s mom insists on a big family picture every holiday- this year is no exception. They have always treated me like family, and I was always amidst the pictures taken for any event and holiday but this year… This year Adela ushers me away from the camera on the tripod and has me stand with Cassian.

“Don’t be silly,” she says as she smooths my hair and pinches my cheek. “You’re in the Christmas card this year, too, hija.”

I do my best not to burst into tears as we wait for the picture to be taken. Adela asks us to take a few more “just in case”. Val sits happily at our feet while Az puts Iliana down to stand. After the fourth picture, Vincente calls for coquito. Helion and Aurelie arrive right on time for dinner, as do Amren, Varian and Andromache. We take another picture to include them as well.

Rhys carves the turkey stuffed with mofongo that he and Lucien made while Cassian handles the pernil. We say grace solely for Adela and Vinny’s sake. Iliana tells us all how she stopped her teacher’s lesson about Thanksgiving to tell her that the textbook was wrong and that the lesson was based on lies.

“She wasn’t very happy with me, but she said sorry and explained uh… what was that word?” Iliana looks at her father who looks ridiculously proud of his daughter.

“The white-washing of history,” Az offers and she beams at him.

“That! I didn’t get in trouble for that.”

“No, you were suspended for fighting with that Hybern girl,” Elain mutters.

“You did what now?” Cassian asks and Iliana crosses her arms.

“She called me stupid and said she didn’t care about what I was saying.” She looks so much like Elain right now it’s astounding. “Then she said something nasty about brown people like me so I gave her something to be mad about.”

That is a line straight out of Elain’s book.

“We had to meet with the girl’s parents.” Elain rolls her eyes. “It’s disgusting that people teach their kids to be so hateful.”

“I have never seen two full grown adults look so ashamed after you spoke to them,” Az says teasingly.

“The bitch tried blaming Lia for her daughter’s bullshit,” Elain snaps and Az just leans in to kiss her.

“I know, babe.” He chuckles and she rolls her eyes.

“Are you okay?” I ask Iliana. She finally loses that haughty look and sighs.

“I was sad for a little bit, Auntie Feyre…” Iliana musters up a smile. “I only got suspended on Tuesday. That cabrona is in trouble for more days and isn’t gonna get to go to the museum next week.”

“Iliana Gabrielle,” Elain says sternly. “Language.”

It doesn’t help that everyone laughs. Elain just sighs and starts to laugh, too.

After dinner, Vinny brings out the cuatro and the singing begins. Everyone takes part in decorating the tree while coquito is passed around. We made a virgin batch for Iliana and anyone driving home- in my case, me. Cassian has rolled up the sleeves to his shirt and unbuttoned his shirt enough to let his tattoos peek through.

“I am honestly surprised I got engaged before you,” Rhys says. I roll my eyes.

“We’ve been together barely a month.”

“That’s bullshit.” I glare at him and he laughs. “You two have been together since New Year’s. That’s almost a year.”

“And you and Luce have been together since your Freshman year of college.”

“Fair point.” He looks pensive. I put an arm around his waist and lean into him.

“I am so happy for you two.”

“I know.”

“No, really. I know we all cried and said our congratulations that night but… I am really happy for you. I love you both so much.”

Rhys hugs me and presses a kiss to my temple.

“I know, darling. And we love you… more than words could ever explain.”

*

“Feyre, hija,” Adela says to me. “Leave that for Rhysand. Come sit.”

With a blush I pass the knife to Rhys who wastes no time in cutting into the pie. I make my way to Cassian but Adela pats the empty space beside her.

“Ma…” Cassian sounds worried but Adela ignores him.

“I want to share something with you,” she says to me and Cassian’s eyes widen. Az laughs and throws an arm around Cassian’s shoulder.

“You’re a taken man now, manito. It’s a rite of passage.”

Cassian elbows him which only makes Azriel laugh even more. Adela sets the album on her lap and opens it up.

“Look at this jamoncito,” Adela says sweetly and looks up at Cassian who looks like he wants to die. “Baby pictures are rare… but they’re precious.”

Cassian hadn’t been adopted until he was in grade school, that much I knew. I noticed the way Adela’s eyes welled up with tears as she carefully brushed her fingers over his baby pictures. She lets out a sigh and turns the page. She laughs and taps a picture of Cassian as a two-year-old, sitting on a towel at the beach with snails in his hands.

“Mami, please,” Cassian pleads but she waves him off.

There are very few pictures of him as a toddler. But he was the cutest baby I’ve ever seen.

“You were so fat,” I say happily. My heart feels tight in my chest- I can picture our own child together and I bite my tongue. “I could eat you up.”

“This is the day he came home for good,” she says as she touches a picture of Cassian standing outside of their house between Adela and Vinny. He’s smiling and his hair is a mess of curls. I had never seen him with short hair before. Then there were pictures of birthdays and his first time on a bike. Pictures of him with Rhys and Az in their bathing suits by the pool, the three of them smiling. I’m in some of the pictures and one of them brings me pause. Cas and I are asleep on the sofa- I remember that day. My parents had been fighting nonstop and Nesta had gotten in the middle of it. Elain and I rode our bikes to their house but it had rained so much, I lost control of the bike and fell. Elain had helped me sit up before she left me to find them and Cassian had come for me with Rhys. Rhys rode my bike back to his house and Cassian had ridden his bike with me sitting on the seat. Adela had cleaned up my knees and wrists, put me in some of Rhys’ pajamas while she threw my clothes in the washer. Cassian and I had spent hours coloring and playing on the Nintendo until we all went to the living room to watch novelas with Adela.

I look up at Cassian and he’s visibly concerned. I offer him a smile as Adela turns the page. I remember the middle school pictures- Cassian after his first football game. Homecoming. Cassian and Mor dancing at a Christmas party. There’s even one of Cassian diving into the water during a family vacation. Though Cassian smiles in most of the pictures, I remember how much he struggled with depression, with a self-hatred that had turned into recklessness that only worsened as he got older. There is a picture of us on his motorcycle- neither of us are wearing helmets and I’m waving at Adela. I remember that day- he’d taken me to my first house party and I’d gotten shit faced for the first time in my life. I cringe.

Cassian sighs with relief as we reach the end of the album. He gets up from the sofa and walks towards us and snatches the album from her hands. Adela takes advantage of that to hug me tight.

“I keep telling Vinny how lucky we are that our boys are happy,” she says and kisses my cheek.

“I’m lucky, too,” I find myself saying. “I didn’t have a family until I met you. I owe Mor everything.”

Mor is in tears but I know that it’s mostly all the rum she’s had tonight. I get up to hug her as she begins to weep much to Andromache and Rhysand’s amusement. Cassian pulls me away once Mor is calling for another song and Az is handed the cuatro to play. He leads me to the kitchen and surprises me with a hug.

“Are you alright, bunny?” he asks. He pulls away to cup my face, his eyes searching mine.

“Yeah, I’m great… Why?”

“You looked… spooked.”

“Oh… No. It’s just… You’ve always been there for me and I don’t know. It was a nice reminder of how lucky I am.” I put my hands on his chest. “And seeing you as a baby-”

He sighs. “I can’t believe her.”

“She did this to Rhys and Az, and you laughed at them. But that’s not the point.”

“No?” He brings his hands to my waist. I shake my head.

“Seeing you as a baby… It’s easier to picture what our baby is going to look like- I mean, if we have one.” I don’t know why I’m blushing, we’ve talked about this before.

Cassian smirks.

“And, I don’t know,” I say with a sigh. “You went through so much… But you worked your ass off to work through it. I’m so proud of you, Cas.”

Cassian looks at me in surprise and before my heart can sink at the sight of tears in his eyes, Cassian wraps his arms around me.

“Cas?” My voice is a whisper.

“I love you, bunny,” he whispers back. “Thank you.”

.

.

.

This was so long!!! 

If you haven’t read any of the Elriel holiday shit before, lemme recap on some of the stuff mentioned here. 

Pernil is pork shoulder made for every holiday and major event. I don’t eat it but it is really good. Coquito is a coconut and rum based drink made during the winter holidays. Some people consider it our egg nog which is weird because its not made with eggs (although some people use it and that’s fine- to each their own). Mofongo is fried plantain and garlic and chicharrones(Pork cracklings) made in a ball. It is AMAZING. and inside turkey rather than stuffing- too good. 

Their dad Vinny’s full name is Vincente which is the Spanish form of Vincent. lol 

The word hija means daughter. The word cabrona is the feminine form of goat and is an insult lmao something like bitch, asshole, jerk, etc. Cabron is the male form.

The cuatro is like a guitar but small like a violin, traditionally had only four strings but I believe it goes up to six or eight. Idk my dad makes them and they are just the best. Aguinaldos (our holiday songs) are not the same without it- assume that’s what they’re singing. Azriel calls Cas ‘manito’ which is the shortened form of the word hermano\hermanito which means brother/little brother. I always forget who is the oldest of the 3 but regardless, you can call someone older than you manito or manita because its just another term of endearment. Jamoncito means little ham and I don’t know a single baby that has not been called that. Mami is mom/mommy in this case. Sometimes it’s used affectionately like my grandma will call me mamita or I've even called my daughter that. Some people call their wives/girlfriends mami but we’re not going there lmao Novelas are soap operas and god forbid you change the channel- even if your tia or abuela is not in the room. they’ll know. 

Anyway, there is that. lol I hope y'all had a great holiday. to my surprise, mine was really great. and my grandma’s food was to die for honestly. I also had my goddaughter to myself for 3 days so I was in baby heaven. Thanksgiving marks the beginning of our Christmas and it doesn’t end until the middle of January. ;)

[asofterfan]

Winter Winds

Chapter 5: Come With Me Now

Previous ~ Next

Summary: Remy blinks, and suddenly Toby has managed to weave himself into their life. And they’re not sure that’s a good thing.

Warnings: Remy’s unhealthy drinking habits

Remy groaned as their phone buzzed next to their ear. They half-heartedly shoved it off the bed, hearing it land with a soft ‘thud’. However the buzzing continued. Sighing in annoyance, they pushed themselves up onto one arm, reaching over to retrieve their phone and unlock it to see a long string of messages waiting for them.

DocOct: Remy

DocOct: Remyyyyy

DocOct: Sleepyhead

DocOct: Do you want a dog?

DocOct: Remy do you want a dog?

DocOct: I have a dog if you want a dog

The final message was an image of Toby, most of his body and face hidden by the large smiling husky he held in his arms, a slight blur around the animal as the dog wiggled happily.

Remy raised an eyebrow, hoping that Toby could sense it.

Sleepyhead: What about me gave you the impression that I should be in charge of any living thing ever?

DocOct: …

DocOct: touche

Snorting, Remy sat up, resigned to starting the day. Looking at the time, they saw it was only a half hour before their alarm was set to go off at noon. They had an appointment at one, so at least that gave them a little time to get ready slowly and get some caffeine in them. Their phone was buzzing again, but coffee first.

Forty-five minutes later, as Remy was walking out of a Starbucks ready to down their second cup since waking up, they suddenly remembered the messages waiting for them. Taking a long sip of coffee, they unlocked their phone to see what else October had sent them.

DocOct: I just want Hermione to be adopted by someone I know

DocOct: so I can see her all the time

DocOct: my boss wont let me take her

DocOct: apparently I’ve “reached the maximum number of animals allotted per employee” :(

DocOct: also I don’t have a yard

DocOct: did you fall back asleep?

Remy shook their head as they typed out a reply.

Sleepyhead: I have a job you know

DocOct: you could still be asleep

DocOct: I literally met you when you were asleep at work

Sleepyhead: you come into MY HOUSE

The bell chimed above them as they entered the shop, Ali glancing up from the front desk and grinning, “Hey, look who’s on time today! If you can manage to do that one more time we’ll have to use two hands to count it.”

“Ha, ha,” Remy drawled, rolling their eyes, “Be grateful I grace you with my presence at all.”

“You’re literally paid to be here.”

“Not enough, I’m not,” Remy winked, and Ali laughed, shaking her head good naturedly.

“Go get ready for your appointment, asshole.”

Tossing their jacket and bag onto the chair in their station, Remy’s phone buzzed again, and they texted absentmindedly as they set up their supplies for the next appointment.

The day passed the same as always. Remy tattooed a watercolor owl on a young woman's shoulder, Brett and Rafa argued in the background over hot sauce brands, Ali harped on Remy to update their portfolio, and Cass got roped into picking up their lunch order. The only thing different was that when Remy’s phone buzzed on their table from time to time, Remy actually responded whenever they had a chance throughout the day.

This fact did not escape Cass’ attention, the petite woman peeking over the dividing wall and between their stations near the end of the night as Remy’s phone vibrated again.

“Someone’s popular today,” she hummed with a devious look in her eye.

“Bitch, I’m popular everyday,” Remy raised an eyebrow at her in a challenge, which she gladly took up.

She skipped out of her cubicle and came to stand at the front of Remy’s station, “Oh come on, you never get this many texts, and you definitely never respond so timely. I once texted you to ask if you could cover a shift and you texted me back two weeks later.”

Remy frowned, “Hey, you gotta earn my attention hon,” they waved their hand dismissively, “I got places to be, things to do. No time for chitchat.”

“You’ve got time for someone,” Cass glanced pointedly at Remy’s phone, “Somebody finally tame the shrew?”

“Ew, don’t use Shakespeare to insult me.”

“I’m not insulting you!”

“And I’m not two seconds from keying your car,” Remy smirked, “See? Saying things is easy.”

Cass rolled her eyes, moving to walk back into her station, “Are you nicer to your penpal, or are they just a masochist?”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure he’ll wise up soon,” Remy hums with a smile, turning back to their computer. The conversation ends, and both artists return to their work, but Remy is a little slower in responding to their phone for the rest of the day.

~

Eventually, night falls. The shop is closed up and Remy’s coworkers go for a drink that Remy declines to join in on. As the group disappears around the corner, Remy leans against the wall next to the shop, sighing and pulling out a cigarette. They don’t really know what they want to do. Cityscape doesn’t appeal the way it normally does, but the idea of returning to their apartment makes them pull out a second cigarette moments after finishing the first.

They’re debating just wandering the city without a destination when their phone buzzes in their pocket.

DocOct: This bar is so weird

DocOct: Like SO WEIRD

DocOct: It’s terrible

DocOct: Come join me

The next text is an address.

Remy exhales the smoke in their mouth slowly, considering their options. Their fingers tap anxiously against the phone, and Cass’ words ring in their head. They’re not dumb. They know this isn’t going to end well.

Sleepyhead: Weird bars are the best ;P be there in 10

But they don’t want to go home, either.

~~~~

“What the FUCK Octagon?”

Snapping his head up from where he was leaning against the bartop in boredom, Toby’s face split into a wide grin, “Remy! You’re here!”

“Yeah and I can already tell it was a mistake!” They put their hands on their hips, eyes narrowed, “What the fuck is this place? Why is there weird anime being projected on the wall? Why are there cosplayers? Where the fuck am I??”

Toby laughed heartily, “It’s a popup bar for some anime I can’t pronounce that came out a while ago.”

“Do you watch said anime?”

“Nah.”

“Then why are we here?”

“Well~,” He drew the word out as he smirked, “I’m here, because one of my coworkers and I are playing “popup bingo” and this gets me one square closer to winning a wholesale bulk box of lint rollers-”

“There is so much to unpack there-”

“-but you,” he twirled his finger as he pointed at Remy, not allowing them to detract the situation, “are here because you wanted to see me~.”

That had Remy’s thoughts screeching to a halt.

“That is just, just blatantly untrue!!” Remy stuttered out, pouting dramatically, “I came because you said the word ‘bar’ and alcohol is a thing I enjoy.”

“You could have gone to any bar, though,” damn him and that stupid pretty smile, “but you came to this one because it’s where I said I was.”

FuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuckFUCK

Remy relaxed their shoulders, bringing one hand to rest on the bar and tilting their head to the side, very consciously putting on their best “cool and casual” air.

“I came for the trainwreck,” they smiled innocently, “I haven’t found a reason to stay though.”

They made an exaggerated show of turning around and slowly walking away. Finally Toby sighed loudly.

“Fiiiiine I’ll buy the first round.”

Remy spun back around on their heel, grinning victoriously, “A man after my own heart.”

“Damn straight.”

“Just for that you’re buying me two drinks.”

Toby laughed, not looking particularly perturbed at the situation, “Two drinks but one of them is a beer.”

“Deal,” Remy slid into the seat next to Toby at the bar.

~~~~

“I need to move to a different shop.”

“Like HELL you are,” Remy wasn’t sure how Ali even heard the statement he had muttered under his breath, but she came rushing in from the staff break room, glaring at the taller punk, “You aren’t going anywhere until you get through your current scheduled appointments! You made a blood oath!”

“What? When??”

“Remember that time you were so tired you accidentally stapled your hand instead of the client forms?”

“That’s not a blood oath!”

“You bled for the shop, the pact is sealed.”

“Uh…..” Toby raised his hand slowly from where he stood just inside the front door, drawing the attention of the two tattoo artists, “I can come back later? Patton said your shift ended at seven on Wednesdays...”

“Goddammit Patton,” Remy cursed, “he should know better than to give my schedule out to stalkers.”

“He does.”

“He ships it.”

“And besides” he pointedly ignored Cass’ comment, “my shifts not over ye-”

“Oh yes it is,” Ali chimed in.

Remy whipped his head to look at his boss in betrayal, “Excuse me? Two seconds ago you were talking about how you owned my ass or something so I could never leave.”

“You can’t stop working here,” she clarified, “but you can leave when your shift is over. Which it is.”

“But I’m still doing stuff!” Remy gestured to the sketchbook in front of him.

Ali crossed her arms stubbornly, “You’ve done your work for the day, and you’ve already got overtime this week. Go have fun with your fan boy.”

Rolling his eyes, Remy stood and roughly shoved his things into his bag, “You know, you’re my boss. You don’t have to make dumb excuses when you’re sick of me.”

“Remy-” Ali called after him, but he was already heading out the door.

“Sorry, I’m off the clock, see you tomorrow~,” he sang as he slipped out of the shop.

He heard the bell chime a second time and footsteps jog to catch up with him, “Hey, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to cause trouble,” Toby said quietly, remorse heavy in his voice.

Part of him wanted to snap at him. It was on the tip of his tongue to prattle about how if Toby really didn’t want to cause trouble then he should get lost, how he’d been nothing but trouble since day one, how of course there was going to be trouble when he kept showing up and Remy still didn’t know why.

But…

The words died on his tongue. A different part of him whispered that he didn’t really mind Toby’s brand of trouble.

So instead, Remy grinned and bumped his hip against Toby, “~I knew you were trouble when you walked in~”

He barked out a laugh, “So shame on me~.”

Remy rolling his eyes, shaking his head fondly as Toby chuckled. After about a block Toby spoke up, “Sooooo,” he drawled, “Where are we going?”

“What’s with all this ‘we’ business? I am a Goddamn island, hon.”

“Well call me Castaway,” Toby purred, sliding closer to Remy’s side.

“Prepare to starve, bitch.”

“WILSONNNNNNN-”

“Jesus Christ, shutthefuckup!” Remy shoved Toby’s shoulder, cutting off his dramatic wail. Remy ran a hand over his face, trying to look exasperated even as he struggled to hide his smile, “If I let you come with me will you stop making movie references?”

“For now,” he smirked mischievously.

Remy rolled his eyes, “That’s the best I’m gonna get, isn’t it?”

“Yup,” Toby’s mouth popped around the end of the word and Remy snorted.

“There’s a club that just opened near River West,” he shoved his hands in his pockets was he walked, “I’ve been planning to check it out, see if it’s worth adding to my nightlife rotation. No reason not to do so tonight I guess.”

The shorter punk grinned enthusiastically, “Cool! Sounds fun!”

“I’m sure it does.”

“Oh! I just remembered, I have to tell you about this rabbit that we got in today-”

The two walked through the city together, crossing the bridge to the west side of downtown as Toby rambled about his day and the animals they received and the ones given to new homes. Remy hummed in response, smoked a cigarette, offered his priceless sass- for free, nonetheless- so by the time they reached the club Remy felt entitled to a little good karma.

What they got, though, was a plain brick building with a single neon sign and a few groups of drunk teens loitering outside.

“Well,” Remy pushed his sunglasses onto the top of his head, “I will admit, this is not a promising start.”

“The… the sign just says “Club”,” Toby commented, pointing to the one word neon sign.

“That’s…” it took a moment for Remy to think of a word, “....succinct.”

“You filtered through a lot of worse words before landing on that one, didn’t you.”

“Shut up and let’s go inside.”

The security barely spared them a glance as they made their way in. Remy squinted at the dim lighting, the flashing lights around the dance floor too dull to really illuminate anything. Meanwhile Toby crinkled his nose as he felt his shoes stick to the floor a little, “You said this place just opened, right? How are their floors already so gross?”

“What the hell is this music?”

“It’s freezing in here, did they bother insulating the building at all?”

Remy made a face of disgust, “I need a drink, STAT.”

“Or maybe we could just go somewhere else?” Toby suggested as they made their way over to the bar.

“Not without some alcohol in my veins we’re not,” he pouted as he pushed his way to the front, ordering a tequila shot as Toby stood behind him. “I’m off work, that means I get to finally have some fun,” he paid for his shot quickly, turning back to face the other punk.

Toby shook his head fondly, “You need a hobby.”

“I have a hobby!”

“Drinking isn’t a hobby.”

“No, it’s a game and I’m winning.”

“That’s called alcoholism. Also you still need a hobby.”

Remy smirked sharply, “You can get your own hobby if you have such a problem with mine,” he stared Toby in the eye as he downed the shot, pointedly ignoring the chaser.

Toby held his hands up in a peacemaking gesture, “I don’t have a problem with it,” he raised an eyebrow, “I just think you could stand to get out more. Get a change of scenery,” he grinned mischievously, “If nothing else it would make my hobby or tagging along with you more interesting.”

“I knew you had ulterior motives,” Remy shook his head, laughing lightly. Looking around, he scrunched his nose as he took in the mass of people dancing overly risque in the center of the room, “Ugh. How are they dancing to this trash? Moreso, how are they still keeping up the weird sexy shit? How is this bizzare techno-country garbage not an instant mood killer? Allosexuals make no sense.”

“Hey, I’m confused too. I admire their tenacity though?” he replied uncertainly.

“I don’t. I am judging very harshly.”

“That’s your default though. It’s like you have resting judgy face except it’s not just your face.”

“Damn straight,” Remy flagged down the bartender and ordered a beer, “This is not the kind of club you experience sober.”

Snorting, Toby leaned against the bar next to him. Once his drink arrived, they both stayed by the bar, neither wanting to venture out onto the floor. Remy sipped on his drink, and after a few minutes Toby took out his phone and began tapping on the screen nonchalantly. When the first beer was finished, Remy wasted no time ordering another. Turning to October, Remy shook his head and tsked, “You are at a club surrounded by beautiful people,” he gestured mostly to himself, “and you’re on your phone? Honestly, you look like a baby boomer meme right now.” Toby’s only response was to turn and stick his tongue out, Remy giggling as he took his beer from the bartender, “Seriously girl, what’s got your attention so fixed? You sexting over there?”

That made Toby pause, his fingers hovering over the screen as he turned to look at Remy with a deadpan expression, “You literally could not be more wrong about what is happening here.”

Remy raised an eyebrow suspiciously as he took a long drink. Toby rolled his eyes as he turned back to his phone, but his lips were twitching towards a smile. The night was young, so Remy felt fine chugging his beer in an attempt to speed things along.

However, that plan was soon foiled. As he neared the bottom of the bottle, Toby gasped loudly, Remy choking a bit on his drink in surprise. He was still coughing and sputtering as Toby smacked at his arm to get his attention.

“Dude, holy shit there’s a pikachu like two blocks away we gotta go!!”

“Excuse me??”

Toby ignored his bewilderment, instead grabbing his wrist and tugging him towards the exit. Once they reached the door, Toby released him in favor of sprinting down the street. Later, Remy would question what happened next, unable to find any logical reason for why he did what he did.

He ran after him.

Darting down the street, his long legs caught up quickly, allowing him to jog a few feet behind Toby as he raced down the sidewalk. After a couple blocks, he skidded to a stop, Remy nearly running into him as he quickly started tapping at his phone. Panting lightly, Remy glanced over his shoulder.

Pokemon Go was open on the screen, a pikachu standing in an image of the dark street in front of them. Toby muttered softly to himself, “Do not run away, do not run away, do NOT run away…” as he tossed a pokeball at the creature.

Remy’s eyebrows were practically in his hairline, “You have GOT to be kidding me.”

“Shhhhh!! I need to focus!” Toby hissed, tossing various items at the pikachu after it escaped the pokeball a second time. Finally, after a few minutes, the pikachu was sucked into the pokeball and stayed there, tiny stars erupting on the screen at the success.

“YES!!” Toby threw his hands in the air in excitement, “Holy shit! I’ve wanted a pikachu for forever! I have to text Talyn, this is awesome!”

“....what year is this?” Remy stated in amazement, “Pokemon Go is still a thing? What? I feel like I’m hallucinating, like was there something in my drink?”

Toby blinked at him in surprise before grinning widely, “Others may have abandoned their quest, but I never will! It’s not enough to want to be the very best, you gotta work for it.”

Remy snorted, shaking his head in disbelief, “You’re a nerd. Like, such a nerd. I don’t even know what to do with this information. I’m going back to the club where people make sense.”

“Oh come on,” Toby skipped in front of him to block his path as he tried to walk away, “that club sucked and you know it.”

“I know no such thing,” Remy crossed his arms and pouting, his face clearly illustrating that he did in fact know such a thing.

“The music sucked and the drinks were subpar and overpriced. I’m pretty sure most of the people there were underage and didn’t even need fake IDs to get in. And you can try to deny it, but you would have left within half an hour even if I hadn’t run off. Your standards are too high.”

Fuck. He had Remy there. “You’re…. Not wrong….” Remy grumbled.

“Here, hold on...” Toby looked down at his phone, tapping a few times before stating, “there's a bar I've been wanting to check out for a while that’s about half a mile away. We can go there instead!”

Remy frowned, “Can’t we go somewhere closer?”

“This place has really good reviews, and I heard they do fun cocktails. It’s not that far. Pleeeeeease?” Toby pleaded, hands clasped together as he bat his eyelashes up at the taller punk.

Rolling his eyes, Remy shoved him away lightly, “Alright, okay, we can go to your dumb bar.”

“Yes!” Toby threw his hands up in success, “We’ll be there in no time, half a mile isn’t that far. And it’s such a nice night!” He gestured to the cool air around them, not too hot or too cold, with clear skies above them. Remy hummed in agreement, as they began walking.

At first they walked in casual silence, Toby occasionally glancing at his phone while Remy lit a cigarette. But, by the end of that one single cigarette, Remy’s boredom and restlessness hit.

The tattoo artist groaned, hunching over in exaggerated exhaustion, “Ugh, we’ve been walking for forever-”

Toby rolled his eyes, “It’s been less than ten minutes-”

“-and we’ve passed like four bars already!”

“-well, we’re going to a specific one, so-”

“What exactly is this place anyway?” Remy leaned over to look at Toby’s phone, but he pulled the device to his chest to hide the screen.

“You’ll see when we get there!”

Remy narrowed his eyes in suspicion. The two stared at each other, each daring the other to make a move. After a moment of consideration, Remy nodded to himself. Then he lunged for the phone. Toby shrieked in surprise, twisting as Remy’s arms flailed around him, batting at his hands and stumbling as Remy leaned his weight on him. Desperately, he tried to scramble away, holding the phone out at arms length, but it was useless against the taller punk. Remy stretched his arm out, snatching Toby’s phone from his hand and quickly skipping away, leaving Toby to regain his balance.

Looking down at the screen Toby had tried so hard to hide, Remy gasped dramatically, whipping his head around to send Toby a look of betrayal, “You were just making us walk so you could hatch a pokemon egg??”

Toby held his hands up in a peacemaking gesture, “We only need to go a little farther! And I mean, I was planning on taking us to a bar afterwards, so I didn’t really lie-”

“Yes you did!! You tricked me! Into exercising!!*” Remy clutched his chest with a wounded expression on his face, and Toby snorted as he suddenly remembered that Remy was a theater kid. “Don’t laugh! You dragged me through the city-”

“It was less than half a mile! We’re literally still in the same neighborhood!”

“-and now I’m half-sober! I am half-sober and awake, October! Those are my two least favorite things!”

Seeing that Remy was distracted by his own monologue, Toby darted forward and snatched his phone back, “Alright drama queen, tell you what. Let me finish hatching this egg- which will take like three minutes, maybe- and I’ll buy the next round,” he grinned lopsidedly, “as an apology for deceiving you.”

Remy didn’t think he sounded sorry at all, flipping his hair over his shoulder as he considered the offer. After a moment, he crossed his arms and huffed, “Fine.”

Almost immediately Toby’s grin was replaced with a look of something between surprise and amazement, “Wait, for real?”

Remy raised an eyebrow, “You promised me alcohol, no backing out now. But I swear if that bitch hatches into a rattata you’re paying for my drinks for the rest of the night.”

Toby let out a bark or laughter, “You know what? That’s fair,” he turned and began walking again, Remy swiftly falling into step beside him.

“So…” Remy drawled with a smirk, “What team are you? And I swear to God if you say ‘Instinct’-” Toby laughed, shoving his shoulder as they continued down the street.

~~~

“You’re not allowed to be weird until I’ve finished caffeinating,” Remy stated before Toby could even say hello.

Snorting, Toby slid into the seat across from Remy at the Starbucks he had found him at, “I’m not falling for that, I know you’re never done caffeinating.”

“Worth a shot,” Remy sighed, hiding his grin behind his coffee cup. Glancing over, he frowned slightly at the dark bruises on under Toby’s eyes, more prominent than they usually were, and that was saying something, “Did you get any sleep last night?”

“I’m getting some right now~”

“First of all, no. Second of all, I woke up to more messages than usual this morning and also you look like shit.”

“Gee, thanks.”

“You’re goddamn welcome.”

Toby rolled his eyes, “I’m fine. Just insomnia,” he took a long sip of his coffee before continuing, “I’ve dealt with it for forever, some nights are just worse than others.”

“That sucks.”

He shrugged, “Eh, it is what it is, but enough about that! You didn’t answer my texts this morning!” From there, Toby continued his usual shenanigans- asking Remy about his plans for the day, how his night had been, lamenting the dogs being picked up later in the day because “obviously I’m happy they’re going to good homes but I’m going to miss themmmmm”. He leaned forward to put his head in his hand, sighing about how he needed to finish his book and become famous so he could buy a bigger house and adopt every animal. As he did, Remy couldn’t help find his eyes drawn to the tattoo on his left arm.

He had seen it countless times by this point, the rough text still clearly legible as “28:06:42:12”. Sighing to himself, he set his coffee on the table to interrupt Toby’s rambling, “Okay, it’s been driving me crazy. What are the numbers on your arm?”

Toby immediately gasped dramatically, clutching his hands to his chest, “Do NOT tell me you’ve never seen Donnie Darko!!”

Remy raised an eyebrow, “I don’t think I have to at this point.”

“Dude! It’s an amazing sci-fi, crime, mystery, scary type movie!”

“You just listed a lot of genres-”

“It’s my favorite Halloween movie. It’s a cult classic!”

“I have a policy that I don’t get involved in cults I didn’t start.”

“I’m pretty sure the Cult of Sleep is just a coma.”

“That’s the goal at least.”

Toby rolled his eyes, smirking, “While your attempts at changing the subject are valiant, it is in vain,” pulling out his phone, he started typing furiously, “Especially since, as luck would have it, I was planning on going to a midnight showing of Donnie Darko next week. And now…” he stretched the word out, clicking a few more buttons on his phone, before grinning widely, “you’re coming with me!”

Remy blinked in surprise, but sure enough, Toby turned his phone towards him, the words “Thank you for your purchase!” on the screen above information on time and place of the movie.

“....What?”

“It’ll be fun!” Toby slips his phone back into his pocket before clapping his hands in excitement, “It’s so trippy! But like, they’re screening the director’s cut, which is SO much better than the theatrical version, because like certain things will actually make SENSE like why would they cut out- I don’t want to spoil anything but like it was dumb how they-”

“Woahwoahwoah, hold up, gurl,” Remy put his hands up to halt Toby’s lecture, blinking at him in astonishment, “What? I mean you- what if I had plans that night?”

“You never have plans,” Toby raised an eyebrow, “you literally spend every night either at a club, at a bar, or at home.”

“Yeah, I PLAN those things!” Remy insisted, “And did you honestly just buy my ticket? In THIS economy? I can think of a million better ways to spend twelve dollars.”

“I can’t.”

“Don’t you bat your eyelashes at me!” curse Toby for making him smile. Bastard. “Besides, you know if that’s after I have work then you’ll have to hang out with me sober, right?”

“Yeah, and?”

“Me. Sober.”

“Remy you’re sober right now!”

“......”

“REMY.”

“Okay, alright, fine I’ll go to the stupid movie!”

“The AMAZING movie.”

“You’re gonna regret this~” Remy sang as he stood, grabbing his bag to make his way out of the shop.

Toby just shook his head, calling after him, “I’ll text you the details!”

~~~~

“What…. did I just watch?”

“RIGHT??”

“No, seriously, what just happened?? Did he actually travel through time? So none of that actually happened?”

“It happened AND it didn’t happen!”

“WHAT?!”

Toby laughed as the two of them exited the theater, Remy holding their head in their hands as they tried to comprehend what they had just watched, “You said it was trippy but DAMN son!”

“But you loved it, right? Tell me you loved it,” Toby pleaded.

“....Well now I don’t want to.”

“Remyyyyyyyy.”

Snorting, Remy shook their head, “Okay, fine, I…. maybe enjoyed it just a bit.”

“Yes!” Toby threw a fist in the air victoriously, “I told you it’d be fun! And hey, I had fun too, even though you’re sober.”

He grinned jokingly, and Remy laughed along nervously, nodding in agreement and deciding not to mention that they had a flask of tequila in their bag that they had been sneaking gulps from ever since they got off work. It was the only way they could think of to calm the anxious energy that waxed and waned in them throughout the night.

Remy stretched as they made their way outside and Toby checked his phone, “Hey, you wanna grab a drink or something? You don’t have work tomorrow, right?”

“Um…” Rey glanced to the side. They really could use another drink, but… “Sorry bud, but I think home is calling. Gotta get to bed so I can stare at the ceiling and reevaluate the concept of time,” they smiled lightly, trying to hide the way their stomach was churning.

It must have worked, cause Toby just chuckled, nodding in understanding, “I feel that. Go get some rest and contemplate existence,” he joked, “Brace yourself for when I make you come over so we can watch it again and discuss theories at length,” he winked playfully, which did nothing to settle Remy’s stomach, an uncomfortable familiarity to the situation.

“I’m always bracing myself when you’re involved.”

“Touche.”

~~~~~~~~~

It became familiar. Remy stopped being surprised when Toby showed up at the end of her shift, or at Starbucks when she was getting coffee, or texted her in the middle of the night. He went clubbing or bar hopping with her, and invited her to movie events at the independent theater downtown. She stopped being surprised, but she didn’t stop feeling a sense of dread. Toby approved of Virgil’s concept, he sent an email full of keysmashes when Remy showed him the final line art, and his tattoo appointment loomed closer.

Every time they hung out, even as Remy laughed and smiled, genuinely having fun with the strange client, she still felt a strange pain in her chest. Each night when she finally headed home, refusing to step foot near Toby’s apartment or let him anywhere near hers, she felt like she had dust in her eyes.

She waited for him to get sick of her shit, for him to ask for something she couldn’t give, for him to stop showing up. But he never did, always looking at her so she could practically see the stars in his eyes, acting like he didn’t need anything else. Remy knew it was temporary, though.

When Remy was with Toby, she couldn’t decided if she felt less lonely or more.

[kpoprunsmylifenow]

Everyone Knew?

Zuho x Reader

Fluff

Summary: You hadn't been to the shop in a while because you'd been out of the country, but now that you're back, there's new guys here. And one needs help on this drawing.

You’d been going to Fantasy for all your tattoos since they opened. You usually went to Youngbin, since you knew him before he opened his shop with Inseong. You’d even gotten a couple of piercings from Rowoon over the years. You’d been out of the country for some work, so it’d been a while since you saw any of the guys. When you walked in, you saw two younger guys at the front.

“Hi, welcome to Fantasy.” The taller one said as the other walked to the back. “What can we do for you today?”

“I have an appointment with Youngbin.” You said as you saw Inseong walk out.

“Oh hey Y/N! It’s been a while since you’ve been here.” He said as he hugged you.

“Hey Seongie.” You pulled back. “I’ve been out of the country for work the past few months. So this is the first time I’ve been free from work long enough to do anything.” You laughed as Inseong brought you back.

“Binnie! Our dear friend is back!” Inseong yelled as you walked into the back. You saw a couple of new people poke their head out and you smiled a little at them as you followed Inseong to the familiar workstation.

“Y/N?” You heard being asked from behind you. You turned to see Rowoon.

“Hey Ro.” You hugged the taller man. He picked you up and spun you around.

“Where have you been?!” He yelled as he sat you down. You laughed as you caught your balance.

“I’ve been out of the country for work Ro! But I’m back now!” You said as the 3 of you finally got to Youngbin’s station.

“I thought I heard yelling.” He said as he looked up from the tattoo he was working on. “Oh Y/N when did you get here?” You laughed.

“They were mostly yelling for you. And then Rowoon was yelling at me for being gone so long.” You laughed as he finished up the tattoo quickly.

“Are you my next appointment?” He asked. You nodded your head. “Great. We can catch up and I can yell at you for being gone for so long.” You laughed and went to wait out front. As you were waiting, someone came in that you saw earlier. He was at a station, and had a lot of tattoos on him. His hair was red, and he had a very chiseled face. As you went back after Youngbin’s other appointment left, he followed you back. He didn’t say anything, but Rowoon started to talk to him quickly. When you made it to Youngbin’s station, he was already ready for piece.

“So are you gonna finally show me what you drew?” You asked as he laughed a little.

“If I say no, will you still let me tattoo you?” You laughed.

“I mean maybe. I want to say I trust you but I also I’ve been gone for a while so you might trick me.” This made the two of you laugh hard.

“HEY! I would never!” He said as you doubled over in laughter. He eventually showed you the drawing, and you loved it. Your new tattoo was to be added to your family tree. You’d lost your younger brother almost a year ago, and had came here a couple months after it happened to get him added to your other tattoo. When you showed him your tattoo, Youngbin said he knew exactly what to add to it. And he did. It looked great. When he started, the guy from earlier came in to ask Youngbin some stuff.

“Youngbin.” He said as he walked in. “Oh I didn’t know you were working. I’ll ask later.”

“No Zuho it’s fine. Y/N won’t mind. What’s up?” He said as he paused. “We can take a break, we were gonna take one in a little while anyways.” You sat us, only in your sports bra because of your tattoo being on your shoulder. You sat up and grabbed your bag, opening one of the bags of snacks you brought. You’d even brought them for Rowoon and Inseong, knowing that they’d missed you. You saw Zuho, you think that’s what Binnie called him, talking with Youngbin about a drawing, so you guessed he worked here as another tattoo artist. Soon you were laying in the chair again to finish the last little bit of line work before the shading started. Inseong and Rowoon came in to sit while your tattoo was being shaded.

When you left, you were in a much better mood since you’d been so stressed with work. But you were glad you’d got to see your old friends and laugh with them. You’d even made plans to hang out at the shop again after work. And right as soon as you finished work, you made your way back to the shop to see that Chani, who you now knew was the youngest there, at the front.

“Inseong is in the drawing room.” He said as he saw you enter.

“Thanks Chani.” You smiled as you ruffled his hair. When you walked in, Inseong was there, but so was Zuho. It seemed like he was still having trouble on the piece he asked Youngbin about yesterday.

“Oh hey Y/N. I didn’t expect you for another hour.” Inseong said as he slung his arm over your shoulder, hitting your still fresh tattoo.

“Ow asshole.” You said as you pushed him away as he laughed. “It still hurts.” You huffed as you walked over to Zuho. “Are you still having trouble with the piece you asked Binne about yesterday?” You asked. He looked at you warily, debating on if he wanted to show you.

“A little bit yeah.” He answered in his deep voice.

“I can take a look at it if you want.” You offered. Zuho was obviously warily, not answering you right away.

“Yo, Y/N can draw super well. She owns her own shop on the other side of town.” Inseong gushed about your shop whenever he could. You blushed and pushed him away again.

“Shut up Seong-ah.” You laughed as he told Zuho to let you look at it. So when he showed you the piece, you immediately knew what to fix. You pointed at a spot that had too much detail.

“If you lessen the detail here, it won’t look as awkward.” You pointed at another portion of the drawing. “And these colors are beautiful, but not together like this. If you can incorporate them in another way, you could do a watercolor behind the actual tattoo.” You made a few more suggestions and Zuho nodded, taking mental notes on how to fix his piece.

“Thanks.” He smiled a little and you patted his shoulder.

“Don’t mention it. I’ve been around since the shop opened and Youngbin AND Inseong used to ask me to draw their tattoos for them when they couldn’t figure out how to bring their clients idea to life.” Inseong ruffled your hair. “And she always denied our request to hire her as a drawer.” He fake cried on your shoulder. You laughed and patted his head.

“But I am planning on getting another piercing today.” You said as you and Inseong walked out of the drawing room.

“Really?! Where?” You pointed towards your septum. Inseong ooohed, thinking that it’d look good on you. So the two of you walked to the piercing room.

“Roro!” You yelled as you got to the back, and he peeked his head out of the room. “I’m here to get a piercing.” You smiled as he laughed and waved you on back. When you told him what you wanted he flipped a little. You and Inseong laughed as he started to get everything ready. You were talking to Inseong when Zuho walked in again.

“Inseong, Youngbin is looking for you.” He said as he glanced at you. You waved and he nodded his head back.

“Alright. Looks like I’m not gonna hold your hand this time.” And you laughed and pushed him off the bench.

“I don’t need you to hold my hand asshole. I’m perfectly capable of doing this by myself.” And the guys laughed, including Zuho. You liked his laugh.

After that day, you tried to come to the shop as often as you could, it was usually once a week. And when you walked in, Hwiyoung, Chani, or Jaeyoon would greet you from the front and tell you where your 3 best friends were. And as time went on, the other guys who’d been hired while you were gone warmed up to you. You could talk to Dawon and Zuho now, and you might have developed a crush on the red haired man. Inseong could tell, and was pushing for you to talk to him more since he was a little shy. So when it was the 2 year anniversary of Fantasy, of course the boys invited you to go out with them. Since you didn’t drink, and the younger ones went home early, you were stuck watching your drunk friends. And you didn’t know this, but drunk Zuho is a lot more confident than sober Zuho.

You laughed as he asked you to dance, but agreed. The two of you made absolute fools of yourselves, but you had fun and that’s all that matters. You eventually exchanged phone numbers and started texting. You thankfully didn’t have work the next day since you’d asked someone to take over the store for the day. As it neared 1 in the afternoon, you got a text from Zuho, apologizing about what he did last night. You laughed a little and immediately told him that he didn’t need to apologize, it was actually Dawon who’d spilling 3 drinks on you. And as he started to remember last night, he remembered hearing Inseong tell you to go after your crush, and you immediately looked at him. He’d been told by Rowoon that you liked him, but he didn’t believe him until now. He’d gained a lot of confidence while he was drunk, and he saw how Inseong and Youngbin kept sending you these looks. So he knew he needed to tell you about his feelings. So he asked if he could meet up with you and talk. You told him yeah, and that you could meet outside of your store. When you got there, you went inside to check and see how everything was going. When you came from the back, someone pointed at Zuho, who was looking at a painting you’d recently done, that just so happened to a version of him. You blushed and tried to hide, but Zuho saw you and made his way over to you.

“I really like it.” He said as he referred to your painting. You blushed and hid your face.

“Thanks.” He laughed a little at your shyness, not having seen it before.

“I guess that really does tell me you actually do like me and it’s not one of Rowoon’s pranks.” He thought out loud.

“How the hell did Rowoon know?” You asked.

“I’m pretty sure everyone knew but me.” He said as he looked over at you and laughed again. You were obviously shocked, and groaned and hid your face again.

“I swear I’m going to kill those boys.” You sighed and looked up.

“But at least I know you won’t reject me when I ask you on a date.” He smiled as you looked at him quickly. He laughed again and grabbed your hand. “Come on, it’s time for our date.”

[beautynotesstuff]

Tattoo Artists Near Me - About InkRank

About InkRank

Perhaps you have had recommended for a tattoo, but you'd no idea where you can also start purchasing a tattoo artist? If you should be looking for a tattoo artist in your area, it may be really difficult to find someone who are able to offer you exactly what you should like from your body art, while also providing you with an unforgettable experience.

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Trying to find the absolute most truly effective tattoo artists in your area can be as simple as typing in a few keywords and let us take it from there. To produce you with accurate and helpful results, we provide a lot of filters and search criteria to help you in narrowing it down seriously to the tattoo artist which will fulfill your entire needs.

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When it comes to finding and booking a tattoo artist, availability is certainly one of the most crucial factors. Scheduling your tattoo appointment is significantly easier when you are able to find a flexible artist who is able to use your schedule. Because of this, we provide a search filter that allows you to find Full-Time artists only, who might be more prone to match you within their schedule sooner than later.

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Experience is another essential trait in the tattoo artist of your respective choice. Finding a tattoo is really a very serious, and permanent, commitment, so it is expected you are going to be trying to find someone who knows what they are doing. Our search filter choices for experience include Less when compared to a year, 1 to 2 years, and 2 to 5 years.

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Working With InkRank

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Join InkRank

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[thefreckledone]

Pompeii 40

“Concussion?”

Sakura stretched across the bed, tackling Ino as she moved to stand. She knew it was a bad idea to tell Ino, but a few daiquiris in and the story tumbled all too quickly from her lips. “Ino, it isn’t that big a deal, it’s fine.”

“Fine? It isn’t fine!” Ino’s voice took on a new cadence, deep and shrieking, overlaid. Sakura felt feathers bunch and shift beneath her grasp as Ino tried to stand from the bed. “Menma goddamn concussed you!” She stopped moving for a moment, looking at Sakura with large, sorrowful eyes. “I was there and I didn’t do anything. I knew you were hurt and I didn’t check in with you. Were you…did anyone help you with the concussion?”

“Sai and Yamato stayed with me,” Sakura reassured her, rubbing down Ino’s arms. Her arms were nearly full wings now, trailing off the bed. Her feathers were a beautiful eggshell white. “Ino, it’s fine. I understand you’ve been…busy. You’ve been out hunting right?”

Ino snorted, shaking out her hair. She was nearly vibrating with tension, but her touch was gentle as she brought her winged arms around Sakura. “If you call cleaning out a few empty cells and hidey-holes hunting. We’re doing what we can, but Orochimaru is a wily bastard who’s been at this for centuries longer than I’ve been alive.” She scowled, drawing fingertips through Sakura’s hair and brushing errant strands behind the shell of her ear. “That isn’t the real reason I’ve been away.”

Sakura’s stomach swooped low and heavy. So they’d reached the crux of the matter then? “I know.”

“Dad’s been freaking out. The Uzumaki and Senju have been telling him…well, all sorts of nonsense. I know, I know it isn’t true,” Ino said, looking frustrated. “He called a family council and I’ve spent the last week slogging through patronizing speeches from relatives who haven’t even met you. I…well, they’re going to leave it alone for the time being.”

Sakura’s heart lifted as she read between the lines. Ino spent the past week defending her to her family and, from the rings beneath her eyes, Sakura could tell she was exhausted. Sakura grabbed Ino’s clawed fingers gingerly, grinning up at her. “Thanks Ino.”

Beneath her hold, Sakura felt the feathers shift and plume, flaring up her arms in a shiver until they crested Ino’s neck in a fan. Her hands shifted, dropping Sakura’s as she leaned in and surrounded Sakura in feathers.

They were impossibly soft, shifting and ruffling across Sakura’s skin as Ino enclosed her in a tight hug. She dropped her head to Sakura’s shoulder, exhaling away a week’s worth of tension and anxiety. “I will always, always have your back, Sakura. Never doubt that.”

Something within Sakura lurched, melting away bits of the tense knot within the pit of her stomach. She was still uncertain of her place here in Pompeii, but Sakura knew now that she’d always have a place with Ino.

Sakura flipped through the pages of art, humming to herself. Konan’s art was immaculate, illustrative fantasy brought to life with ink upon skin in vibrant colors and confident lines. Though, Sakura realized with a wry twist of her lips as she eyed the depiction of a kitsune, perhaps illustrative fantasy wasn’t the right term.

Illustrative reality more like.

“Konan possesses adequate skill in tattooing,” Sai said beside Sakura’s shoulder. Despite his words, Sakura could see the way his eyes sparkled as they traced along a tattoo of a dragon. “She uses color well.”

Sakura nudged Sai, grinning. “I’m sure she’d be willing to teach you.”

“She certainly will,” a soft voice said. “Konan has always had a gift for teaching.”

The duo turned, greeted with the sallow grin upon Nagato’s face. He sat heavily in one of the chairs, hand pressed to his side. Ink Inc. was a joint effort between Nagato and Konan, a couple that Sakura was quickly realizing owned a few businesses in town, including the Waffle Shack. Nagato’s style of tattooing was strict traditional, both American and Japanese while Konan embraced illustrative and watercolor styles.

Sai, as a black and white artist, was a perfect fit to join their team as the resident black and grey tattoo artist.

And, thankfully, his sometimes abrasive and abrupt attitude was accepted with ease among the tattooing community.

“How are you, Nagato?” Sakura asked, brow knitting with concern.

“As well as ever,” Nagato said, standing with a groan as he clutched at his ribcage. “Don’t worry about me. I’m heading over to the Shack, you want anything?”

Sakura and Sai shook their heads, waving Nagato off as he went to check in with Konan.

“Do you want a tattoo?” Sai asked, watching Sakura peruse the books.

Sakura shrugged, keeping her eyes on the tattoo of an eagle grappling a snake. “Maybe. I’ve fiddled with the idea over the years. I just didn’t think it best to get one during medical school, what with all the crushing debt and the like.”

“And now?” Sai asked.

“Maybe,” Sakura said. “I’ve always wanted an anatomical heart.”

“I’ll draw something,” Sai said immediately, sitting down to sketch.

Sakura’s lips quirked up at the corners, watching him at work. His expression was soft and nearly open, more so than he ever was when he was in conversation with others. This was his element, his safe place, and Sakura appreciated that he let her even be part of this with him. She took a seat, eyes falling to half mast as she drifted, soothed by the near constant buzz of the needles in the side rooms.

Sakura blinked back to wakefulness as the bell above the door tinkled, announcing a new customer. She turned, smiling as Sasuke stepped into the tattoo parlor, shaking water free from his hair and wings.

The smile quickly faded in the face of his thunderous scowl and the way he stormed toward her, feathers ruffled high in agitation. She stood, jumping when Sasuke opened his mouth and a high-pitched screech resounded through the room, making Sakura’s ears ring.

“Sasuke?” Sakura said, folding in on herself.

“What the hell did you do?” Sasuke demanded, arms flying out in a clear bid for intimidation.

It was working.

“Do?” Sakura asked weakly.

Sasuke’s jaw clenched so tightly she could hear his teeth creaking. “Itachi,” he hissed out.

“What’s happened to Itachi?” Sakura asked, stepping forward toward Sasuke despite his aggression. “Is he alright?”

“He’s not alright and you know it!” Sasuke said. “He’s fallen ill with the same sickness that’s taken hold of Naruto and the rest.” He grabbed her wrist, clawed fingertips digging into the flesh. “What did you do?”

“I didn’t do anything,” Sakura protested, ignoring the pain that flared from her wrist. “I’m doing what I can to cure this but I’ve had little success so far.” The shame of her inadequacy burned deep in her chest, flushing her cheeks with its heat. “Please, bring Itachi to the clinic; I can examine his symptoms…or I can come to him, up to your house-”

“You are not welcomed there,” Sasuke said, eyes red and turning with his anger. “You will not infect the others, you parasite.”

Sakura yanked her arm from Sasuke’s grasp, ignoring the way her sleeve darkened as blood pooled to the wounds. “Sasuke, I just want to help,” she said, averting her eyes as the guilt hit her again. There was so little she could do. Hadn’t she been working at this for weeks? And what did she have to show for it? A litter of unanswered questions and unfulfilled promises. She wasn’t a good doctor. “Please.”

“Help?” He glanced at their surroundings and let loose a bitter chuckle. “You seem hard at work helping here.” Sasuke turned his attention to her again and scoffed. “ You can’t even meet my eyes.”

Sakura swallowed, preparing to respond as Sai moved between them, tucking Sakura against his side.

“Leave Uchiha,” he said, slate eyes alight with barely bedded fury. “You are not welcome here, nor are you wanted.”

“I see your mongrel is still healthy,” Sasuke sneered, pinwheel eyes focused unerringly on Sakura. “You should put him down now. Mutts always bite the hand that feeds them.”

Sakura caught the tensing of Sai’s shoulders before she pressed past him, getting up into Sasuke’s face. “That is incredibly cruel, Sasuke! How dare you speak to him like that?” she said, temper and voice rising in tandem. “What would Itachi say if he heard you speaking like this?”

The feathers at Sasuke’s neck ruffled as he went stark white and, for a moment, Sakura thought he would strike her. Then, he turned, stomping out into the rain before taking to the skies.

Sakura sighed, all the fight draining from her as she turned back to Sai. His eyes were a bit wide as he scrutinized her. He caught sight of the blood running down her wrist and snapped to attention, grabbing bandages (which Ink Inc. had in abundance) and a basin of water. Sakura glanced around as he did this, trying to figure out why something felt off.

As he fussed over her and bullied her into a chair, Sakura closed her eyes, realizing what was amiss.

All of the tattoo machines were turned off during the confrontation.

When the steady thrum of the machines filled the air once more, Sakura resigned herself to the scrutiny that was bound to arise from this altercation. As she was learning more and more, gossip spread like wildfire in Pompeii.

She could only hope that she wouldn’t be consumed in the ensuing flames.

The days following Sasuke’s confrontation were tense as Sakura prepared herself to be subjected to all sorts of public humiliations. However, as the days stretched by monotonously, Sakura realized that there was a new game afoot.

A treatment of silence.

As she walked through town, Sakura felt many eyes upon her and could nearly feel the hushed whispers crawling across her skin, but none dared to approach. Instead, they watched her, eyes flaying her open and exposing all of her flaws and vulnerabilities. Sakura did what she could to ignore it, knowing that attempting to address the issue would only exacerbate things further.

People would believe as they wished and there was little she could do to change their minds.

Today she was heading to the library, to visit with Hiruzen and search out answers to this unexplained illness. Ino, Sai, and Yamato had each volunteered to join her but she turned them down firmly, understanding well that they couldn’t put their lives on hold for her sake. She wouldn’t want them to.

Besides, she could handle silence well. It was once a familiar friend. And so it seemed, based on the way people scurried away from her, it soon would be so again.

The abrupt appearance of scrawl reading Sarutobi Library was a welcome distraction as the library formed in front of her. Sakura climbed up the steps two at a time, grinning wryly at the strange building. She rather thought she’d learned its favorite haunts, as it had appeared in the cross streets of Sage and Walnut for her past three visits.

“Hiruzen?” Sakura called out, crossing through the open doors into the library. “Hello?”

“Hello again Sakura,” Hiruzen said, stepping out of his office and wiping his hands in a cloth. Sakura could see streaks of some dark substance upon his face as he grinned at her. “It is always a pleasure to see you.”

“You as well,” Sakura returned, heart warmed by his kind display.

“I’ve a few books that might be of interest to you,” Hiruzen said. “The library’s been leaving them on the tables at night in a rather passive-aggressive manner.” His tone was affectionate as he cast his gaze up to the ceiling of the room. “You seem on quite good terms with the library.”

“Perhaps it enjoys my persistence,” Sakura said, following Hiruzen further into the library, cooling her heels as he rounded his desk and gathered a stack of books.

“Ay, I’d say it certainly does. In my years, I’ve yet to find a magic that didn’t do well alongside stubbornness. It takes tenacity to thrive in the harsh conditions that magic creates.” His voice was casual, overly so, and Sakura’s face warmed. “It takes grit.”

“So you’ve heard,” Sakura said quietly.

“Ay, I have,” Hiruzen said. “I hear it well enough from Hashirama. His brother’s taken ill.”

“Tobirama has fallen too?” Sakura asked, feelings mixed. They’d parted on poor terms, but she still cared for his wellbeing. He hurt her, hurt Yamato, but still…at one point she’d considered him a friend. And then she remembered where Hiruzen received this information. “And what think you of me?”

Hiruzen hummed, stroking his beard. “I know little of the goings on within town. I do what I can to stay away. I have been involved before and I have lived long enough to see the cyclical patterns of the citizens’ attitudes. For near immortals, they are quite predictable.” At Sakura’s blank stare, he shook his head and chuckled. “Apologies. What I mean to say is that, thus far, everything is hearsay and gossip; there is little traction for these rumors. Besides, the land of Pompeii is a strange entity unto itself and I have seen that it is the best judge of character. I have seen people banished from the land by the land. Pompeii likes you; do you think this library appears for just anyone?”

“The library is a part of Pompeii’s magic?” Sakura asked, surprised.

“While my name is upon the building, I cannot claim ownership. Pompeii has graciously offered me stewardship after this manifestation of itself. I have worked here for centuries. The library dotes upon you, it enjoys your presence.” Hiruzen smiled and there was a wicked tilt to it. “I trust the library’s judgment much more than that of my…esteemed colleagues.”

Sakura returned his smile, accepting the books that he passed to her. As she moved to leave, Hiruzen grasped her hand, squeezing it warmly.

“I know that it currently feels as if the town has turned against you,” he said, eyes impossibly kind. “Keep in mind that the town itself, the very bones of Pompeii, is in your corner. That is no small thing.”

He released her and Sakura wished him goodbye before striding back toward the clinic. This time, as the stares and whispers reached her, Sakura was able to ignore them easily. Hiruzen’s quiet conviction buoyed her, centering her and reminding her of the big picture. This too would pass.

She just had to remain strong and resilient, like a weed.

Sakura paused as she reached the clinic, grasping the books tight to her chest. She bit her lip, taking in the sight before her.

The door to the clinic was thrown open and windows broken in. Sakura moved inside, surveying the damage. The cushioned seats of the waiting room were ripped opened, surgical instruments sticking out of them. Some sort of dark, faintly glowing substance coated the floor and walls, smeared across her desk and computer. Shizune’s desk was absolutely pristine. The filing cabinets were on the side and it appeared that someone tried to jimmy the locks, but thankfully the magical sigils had deterred them.

Sakura drifted, almost in a daze through the different examination rooms, taking note of the damage in a cold and distant way. One of the scales was destroyed, as were two stethoscopes. Claw marks raked the walls and furniture, leaving little salvageable. She calculated that the repairs that were required were easily in the thousands.

Slowly, Sakura climbed the stairs to her apartment. The walls were streaked in that strange black liquid and red paint, as well as various claw marks. She paused on the second to last step, looking at her doorstep. Strangely, the door itself was pristine, untouched by any of the damage. But the assailants made the most of her doorstep, gouging letters deep into the floorboards.

UNWELCOME!

The carved letters were traced over with red paint. Beneath the message lay the bell that hung above the clinic’s door, warped and twisted. She picked it up, keyed into her apartment, and closed the door behind her.

“Why have you called this meeting?” Yamato asked, looking up at Hashirama from the seat he lounged in.

Anxiety roiled in his chest, brought on by his surroundings. He hated the Senju compound and all the memories associated with it. Sakura was away visiting the library and somehow Yamato wasn’t all that surprised that Hashirama cornered him and asked him here. Ever the opportunist, that Hashirama.

“Must you even ask? What don’t you understand about the situation? We need your help,” Hashirama bit out, staring Yamato down. “Tobirama has fallen. You seem immune to the…wiles of the good doctor.”

“That’s rich,” Yamato said, arms crossed. “I am no longer affiliated with your clan. You and I may be bound by marrow and DNA, but I owe you absolutely nothing.”

For a moment, Yamato could read the surprise and sudden surge of anger on Hashirama’s face. Good. He had to be put in his place. Then it smoothed, clearing in that way that always spelled trouble for those around him. Damn Fay charisma. “And you care nothing for this town? Pompeii has sheltered you, offering you a home when you had none. There is no love lost between us, but what about Pompeii?”

Yamato laughed and it was cruel and vindictive to his own ears. He was beyond care though, adrenaline thrumming as he finally, finally told Hashirama off. “Sheltered me? No one here has ever cared about me, least of all you and your damn clan. I am the unwanted, the unmentionable. I am the reminder of your abhorrent failure. If you hadn’t failed, I wouldn’t exist.” He laughed and laughed, because if he didn’t, he would cry. Yamato didn’t think there were enough tears in the world. “And you know, for the majority of my existence I’ve wished you succeeded.”

Hashirama drew in a sharp breath but Yamato was nowhere near done.

“All of that changed when she came.” Yamato’s voice was soft, reverent. “She looked at me and saw me, not your failures, not the stain that Orochimaru left on this town. Even when she found out, she never made me feel like I was less than a person. I have now found innumerable reasons to live and that is thanks to her. Her kindness has given me the opportunity to make a life worth living.”

“But she’s behind all of this! People are dropping like flies and those damn trees keep growing and it’s her fault!” Hashirama shouted, composure broken in the face of Yamato’s brutal honesty.

“So?”

“So? Is that all you have to say?” Hashirama demanded.

Yamato slammed a hand down on the table, watching expressionlessly as the wood pinned Hashirama to the wall. They both knew it would be child’s play for Hashirama to get free. Still, the shock on his face said it all. In his arrogance, he still didn’t believe Yamato would dare to raise a hand against him. Yamato stepped closer, waiting until he had Hashirama’s full attention.

“I don’t care,” Yamato said. “Sakura may be the culprit and she may not be. I do not care either way. Pompeii can burn for all I care. If she wishes it, then yes, Pompeii will burn. Why is this so hard for you to understand?”

“She will kill hundreds,” Hashirama said.

Yamato shrugged.

“She will damn us all.”

Yamato moved even closer, pressing a hand to Hashirama’s chin and tilting his head up to make sure that Hashirama listened to him. “You damned me. Sakura is the single light within my world. If she wishes to see Pompeii destroyed, I will assist her in damning you all. I will not stand by and watch you extinguish my saving grace.”

So saying Yamato walked over to the door, flicking a wrist to force it off the hinges. He turned back to Hashirama as Hashirama rubbed his chafed wrists.

“Tread carefully,” Yamato said. “I am no longer your tool to use as you wish.”

“But you’re hers,” Hashirama spit.

“She doesn’t treat me as such,” Yamato replied. “You had my skill set; she has my loyalty.” So saying, Yamato flicked his fingers, blowing the door wide off its hinges. He moved through the threshold, pausing and looking back to Hashirama. “Do not attempt to overstep your bounds again. Next time, there will be no quarter.”

[allsassnoclass]

Light em up is a fine song but i remember rushing home from school and going online to watch the video freaking out bc i was so happy they were back even though theyre little liars who said the week before they were not getting back together but i forgive them bc SR&R, AB/AP, and Mania defined my college expereince. I actually enjoyed Mania i know people were touchy about it but i think its a decent album and its super fun

I got to see FOB on the monument tour with Paramore which was super fun bc they were both there but Im so jealous you got to see them in Chicago!! Recently!! thats so cool hometown shows have gotta be the best ones to go to

Oooo what tattoos do you want? I want like 3-4? Im thinking of doing a decent sized watercolor flower/butterfly/ladybug one on my thigh&then like at least 2 lycris from the maine on my ribs/sides&at least 1 fall out boy for sure. I havent decided yet on fall out boy. my friend keeps joking we should get the 5sos tally marks.

My favorite thing is that there was an article published literally the day before they dropped light em up that quoted Pete saying they weren’t getting back together yet like... the chaos of it all

Mania is not my favorite album of theirs lol it’s actually probably tied for last with take this to your grave but I do appreciate the uniqueness of the songs and I’ll still go hard for any of them because it’s Fall Out Boy

!!!! seeing them with Paramore would have been AMAZING you’re so lucky!!! I never expected to see a hometown show for them because I don’t live near Chicago so I genuinely got incredibly lucky and also my friend who took me is amazing and I love her

I want “spirit lead me” on my wrist, an outline of an iPod with a heartbeat on the screen on my left arm, an outline of tap shoes mirroring it on my right arm, the silhouette of the fellowship walking from lord of the rings on my left forearm, and “inside us only stars” with some sort of design on my back near my shoulder.  for a fall out boy one I might do something with infinity on high, since that’s tied for my favorite album and the title comes from a Van Gogh quote and Van Gogh is my favorite artist.  which lyrics from the Maine do you want??