“You do realize that area can be pretty painful, right?”
“Crap, I didn’t think of that.”
“We can still do it there, I just don’t want it to be too painful for you. Especially since it’s your first one.”
“Would you recommend a different area?” she asks.
“Not directly on bone. Maybe if we drop it slightly, so it’s closer to your hip, but not actually on the hip,” I say, pointing to the area on my body.
“That would work. I’d still be able to keep it covered when at work.”
I grab one of my business cards from the counter, quickly jotting down my cell number on it before handing it to Cam.
“Here’s how to reach me. I put my cell on the back, so feel free to text or call me directly. We don’t always have someone working the desk. If you want to rework either design, just let me know, and I can change any element for you.”
Cam stands, reaching out her hand to me, and I take it in my own, feeling that spark as soon as our skin connects again. The flash in her eyes tells me she felt it, as well. “Thank you so much, Ethan. I really appreciate your help and look forward to coming back to get the tattoo.”
After we say our goodbyes, Cam and Lilly head out of the shop while I grab my things from my station before locking up and heading home.
Chapter Three
Cam
I’ve had the designs Ethan drew up for a few days now. I really love both of them, and finally decided I want to have Ethan combine them together. I also haven’t been able to get him out of my mind. From his bulging muscles peeking out of the t-shirt he had on the other day, to the scruff covering his face, it made me feel something I haven’t felt in many years. His “boy next door” looks and charming smile also had me feeling butterflies deep in my stomach, and maybe just a tad lower, in my nether region. I don’t know that I’m ready to read into that feeling, but I definitely noticed it. I also can’t get past the zing I felt each time we touched. I saw the realization in his own eyes when we shook hands before I left his shop.
Cam: Hey, it’s Cam. I wanted to discuss my tattoo. Can I stop by sometime soon to do so?
I go back to unpacking and getting all my things put away in my new apartment. I love my new place and how everything is coming together as I get it all unpacked. I’ve just finished emptying a box when my phone chimes with an incoming text.
Ethan: Hey! I’m at the shop all day today. I have some free time between appointments around 2 for an hour if you want to stop by then.
Cam: I’ll be there! Thanks!
Ethan: Anytime, see you this afternoon.
I’m so excited to finally be moving forward with this tattoo. Ben was such a huge part of my life and even though I miss him every day, I’ve promised myself that with this move, I will move on. Nothing can change the fact that he’s gone, and I know he would want me to find someone to love again. Hell, he made me promise him shortly before he died that I would.
I finish up another few boxes before it’s time for me to walk over to Ethan’s shop, arriving a few minutes early.
“Hi,” I tell the woman working the reception desk. “I’m here to see Ethan. He knows I’m coming.”
“Sure thing,” she replies. “Have a seat over there. Ethan is just finishing up with his client and should be done shortly.”
I give her a smile and walk over to the couch. While waiting, I pull out my phone and check my Facebook. My cousin Shannon has posted a few new pictures of her new baby. Cue ovaries exploding. He is such a cute baby and makes me long for kids of my own. I keep scrolling through my feed until I hear my name being called.
“Cam, come on back,” Ethan says, walking up next to where I’m sitting.
I try to ignore the deep timbre of his voice as I slip my phone back into my purse and stand, following Ethan back to his area. I take advantage of walking behind him to let my gaze wander over all those sinewy muscles that nicely fill out his t-shirt and jeans. Once we make it to his room, I pull out the original drawings he made me.
“So, what did you want to discuss?” he asks, as he takes a seat on his stool, smiling at me.
“I loved both of these options, so I was wondering about possibly combining them.”
“Sure, I can do that. What are you thinking?”
“My idea is to take the feather and turn it so it’s under these words, with the birds coming up on the right side like this,” I tell him, pointing to the saying he had on his drawing with the feather. “Then take the heart with Ben’s name and place it under the feather.”
“So, like this.” Ethan grabs his sketchbook and, within a few minutes, has put together a new drawing, showing what I envisioned.
“Exactly like that,” I answer, the emotion evident in my voice.
Ethan looks up at me, a huge smile on his face. “I’ll clean up the drawing before we actually tattoo it onto you, but if you like that, then let’s get you scheduled. How soon were you wanting to get it done?”
“Oh, um…. soon-ish, I guess. How far out are you booking?”
“For a tattoo like this, I can get you in almost any day that you’re available. What’s your schedule like?”
“I start my new job on Monday. So, until then, I’m just working on unpacking, and getting my apartment all set up.”
“If you want it tonight, I can do it after my last appointment. So, around 8 or 8:30.”
“Really?!” I shriek.
Laughing at my excitement, Ethan nods his head at me. “Yes. I’ll clean up the drawing between now and when my next client gets here, and then you can approve it before we get started tonight.”
“Oh my God, I can’t believe it’s finally happening. Thank you so much, Ethan!” I exclaim, wrapping my arms around him in a hug. I don’t even realize I’m doing it, until I feel him stiffen slightly, then bring his arms around me, hugging me back, pulling me tighter against his body.
“You’re welcome, Cam. I’m glad I could help you design something you love,” he says quietly against my ear before we release each other.
“How much will it cost? I need to swing by the bank before I come back.”
“I forgot to ask this earlier, but did you want it all in black, or did you want color?”
“Black is fine.”
“For all black, it’ll be $250,” Ethan replies.
“Sounds good. I’ll be back around eight tonight.”
After leaving the shop, I stop by the ATM to grab cash, then return home. I only have a handful of boxes left to unpack, and it’s my goal to finish them today. I want the last couple of days before I start my job to be free and relaxing.
When I arrive at home, I finish those boxes within an hour, leaving me with some downtime before I need to be back at Ethan’s shop. I’m relaxing on the couch, with the TV turned on to a marathon of Say Yes to the Dress, when my phone chimes with an incoming text.
Lilly: Hey, girl, how’s it going? Have you finished unpacking?
Cam: Good! I finished unpacking just a little bit ago. I’m going in around 8 tonight for my tattoo! I went and saw Ethan this afternoon to finalize the design, and absolutely love it!
Lilly: What design did you end up picking?
Cam: I actually had him combine the two that I loved. I couldn’t decide, so I asked him to shift things around a little. I’ll text you a picture once it’s finished tonight. ;)
Lilly: You better! Do you have plans this weekend? We’re having a get-together and I wanted to see if you’d like to come?
Cam: Nothing really. Now that I’m done unpacking, I don’t have much to keep me busy until work starts next week. I’d love to come! Just tell me when and where to be, and if I can bring anything.
Lilly: Our house, Saturday 11-ish. Cash will probably start the grill closer to noon. Just bring your pretty little self. If you want to crash here, bring a bag and you can have the guest room.
Cam: Sounds good! I’m excited to see you again, and everyone else. I bet the kids a
re so big!
I set my phone down and return my attention to the marathon on the TV for the next hour or so until my stomach rumbles, and I realize it’s dinnertime. I grab my purse and phone, and head out to try another restaurant in my neighborhood.
I walk around for a bit, trying to decide what sounds good tonight. One of the bars has a chalkboard sign out on the sidewalk, advertising the specials for tonight, and the shrimp tacos sound amazing.
Just as I’ve finished my dinner, I remember Ethan saying he had clients up until I come in tonight, and he’s staying late for me. I decide to send him a quick text to see if I can bring him anything to eat.
Cam: Hey! I’m just down the road, eating at Charley’s and realized that you’re staying late for me. Can I possibly bring you anything to eat?
I place my phone back down on the table, picking up my drink to finish it off. As much as I wanted to enjoy an alcoholic drink tonight, I know I shouldn’t before having the tattoo. Within a couple minutes, my phone lights up.
Ethan: Thanks for the offer. If you’re sure, that’d be great. I usually order in something when I’m working late but hadn’t gotten around to it yet.
Cam: Absolutely! You’re staying late because of me. Would you like something from here, or I can stop somewhere else.
Ethan: Charley’s is perfect. The shrimp tacos are amazing.
Cam: They sure are! That’s what I just finished eating.
Ethan: Great minds think alike. ;) An order of them would be great, and I’ll pay you back when you get here.
Cam: One order of shrimp tacos coming up, and my treat.
Ethan: Cam, no, you don’t have to buy my dinner.
Cam: I offered, my treat. It’s my way of thanking you for staying late at work for me.
Ethan: If you insist…
Cam: I do.
Ethan: See you soon, my client just sat back down from our short break. Need to get this appointment finished so that I can start yours on time.
I flag down my server and put in Ethan’s order to go, as she refills my glass with more lemonade. I sip it slowly while I scroll through my Facebook feed. I stop on a post from Ben’s brother, Jack. He proposed to his girlfriend tonight, and she said yes. I always loved his family; they were the nicest people and welcomed me right in. I’ve kept in touch with his mom and sister Emily the most, but our contact has become more infrequent as the time since Ben died grows. I quickly leave my “congratulations” comment and try to hold back the emotion that fights to overtake me. Had Ben still been alive, I’m sure we would have been there for this exciting event in Jack’s life, and that just makes me miss him even more.
Fucking cancer.
I’m pulled from my fog when my server approaches and sets down the to-go bag, along with my bill. I quickly pay her and leave. I still have about a half hour before I need to be at Ethan’s shop, so I window shop and people watch to pass the time.
Upon entering the tattoo shop, no one is manning the front desk, so I take a seat on one of the couches to wait. I know Ethan is with another customer and wasn’t sure exactly when he’d be done. I pull out my phone to send Ben’s mom, Candace, a message, since I haven’t talked with her in a while.
Cam: Hey! I see congratulations are in order for Jack and Cassie!
Candace: Thanks, sweetie, he is on cloud nine. How are things? How’d your move go?
Cam: Things are good, I’m all moved and unpacked. I really love my new place and the neighborhood! It’s full of little local shops and restaurants. I start my new job on Monday. And I’m finally getting my tattoo. I’m actually sitting in the tattoo shop waiting for my appointment right now.
Candace: I’m glad you’re settling in well. Please send me a picture once it’s done! I sure miss your sweet face.
Cam: I miss you all so much. I’ll send you a picture for sure. I think you’re going to love what we came up with.
Candace: I’m sure I will. Call or FaceTime me soon so we can catch up. Love you, sweetie.
Cam: Love you, too. I’ll try calling this weekend.
I flip back over to Facebook and my nerves kick in a little as the time passes. One of the reasons I’ve put off getting this done is I’m worried about the pain involved, both physically and emotionally.
Chapter Four
Ethan
I’m just finishing up the last little bit of this tattoo when I hear the door chime. Knowing that Cam is coming, I focus on wrapping up, so I can get out to see her. I don’t know what it is about her, but she does something to me. I’ve never been the one to have a serious relationship; hell, I’ve perfected the bachelor lifestyle over the years, and it has always suited me just fine.
“All right, man,” I tell James, as I wipe down his new tattoo. “You know the drill. Keep it covered, apply the healing lotion, and don’t scratch it.” I hold up a hand mirror, so that he can see his new ink.
“Thanks, man. It looks great. Can you snap a quick picture of it before you wrap it up?” he asks, handing me his cell. I take a couple pictures for him before covering the ink and sending him on his way. I clean up my station, making sure to take my time and not rush the cleaning process.
I walk out to the reception area and see Cam sitting there, looking at something on her phone. I stand there, admiring her for a few moments. I take in the way she smiles when looking at a picture on her screen, moving on to a small chuckle at something she finds funny.
I don’t know what it is, but there’s just something about her that makes me want to know everything I can. I feel this pull toward her, and that’s something I’ve never felt with a woman. It’s kind of weird, especially since I’ve only been around her for maybe an hour total, and don’t really know anything about her, except that she just moved to town and lost someone important to her.
“Hey,” I say, the word coming out gravelly.
Cam looks up from her phone and smiles as soon as she sees me. “Hey! Here’s your dinner. Do you want to sit and eat before we start?”
“Yes, but let’s head back to my station. You can take a look at the finalized stencil, and make sure you don’t want anything changed.”
Cam stands, handing me the takeout bag, and we walk back to my area.
“You can hang your stuff on the hook behind the door, and take a seat in the chair,” I tell her, as I set my food down on my table and pull out her stencil.
“Here’s the final drawing.” I hand it to her, to inspect and approve.
“Oh my!” Cam gasps. “Ethan, it’s perfect!” she exclaims, as she covers her mouth with one hand. I see a tear escape the corner of her eye, and I instantly reach out to wipe it away, but quickly drop my hand from her face.
“I’m glad you love it,” I gruffly tell her. Clearing my throat, I open my to-go box, pulling out the first taco. “Take a seat, and I’ll scarf down this food quick; then we can get started.”
Cam sits, still looking at the drawing. I want to get her mind off the pain I can see splayed across her face.
“So, what brought you to Nashville?”
“Lilly, and my job.”
“Have you known Lilly for a long time?”
“We met in college. We were on the same dorm floor our freshman year, and had a couple general education classes together. We ended up studying together a lot of the time, and our friendship bloomed from there, until we became best friends. I was really sad when she moved back home to be with her parents, shortly after she got pregnant with Ashlyn. We kept in touch, though, never allowing the distance to come between us. She was my rock when Ben died, and has begged me to move out here for months. She knew I needed a change to really move on, so when she saw the job listing for my position, she texted me a link right away.
“I took my sweet time applying for it, but finally took that leap and sent in my resume. Within days, I had a phone interview, then one by Skype, and finally, they flew me here to have an ‘in person’ final interview. I walked out of that meeting with a job offer in hand and
a calm sense of peace over me. I knew this was what I needed to truly start my life over, without Ben.”
“Sounds like the best kind of friendship to have,” I reply, as I take the last bite of my food. I didn’t realize how starved I was until I opened the box and the smell hit me. I clean up my small mess and stand to wash my hands before pulling out a pair of gloves.
“Let’s get this started. Are you still okay with the placement we talked about before?” I ask.
“Yes, I think I want it on my left side, about here,” she says, lifting her shirt to point to the area.
“That will work perfect. Can you slip your shirt off, so it’s out of the way? I’ll also roll the top of your jeans down just a bit, so I have room to work.”
Cam slips her shirt off over her head, and I do my best not to ogle her too much as I take in her almost naked torso. I’ve seen every body part on countless women—some as they undress before we fuck and the others because of my job. But the sight of her smooth skin, and breasts that look like they could fill my hands perfectly, nearly takes my breath away and causes my dick to harden, until it’s pressing against the zipper of my jeans. Fuck, I need to calm down. This girl has me tied up in knots.
I take a few calming breaths, and grab the stencil, holding it up next to her skin. “Does here work?”
“Yes, that’ll be perfect,” she answers, as I press the stencil against her skin to transfer the design. I pull the transfer paper off, revealing the outline of the design on her.
I help position her in my chair, where she will be the most comfortable, yet in the best position for me to tattoo her without much movement needed. Once she’s settled, I get my equipment ready and we get started. I notice her flinch when I first start, but she quickly relaxes while I work.
“Are you from Nashville?” Cam asks, breaking the silence.
“No, I grew up in Michigan. Went to school at U of M, where I played hockey. I was drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes after my senior year. I played for them for a season, and then was traded to the Nashville Predators. I played for them for two seasons before I suffered a career-ending injury during the offseason. I loved it here, so I decided to stay. It took me awhile to figure out what I was going to do, now that I can’t play hockey at that level.”
Happily Ever Alpha: Until You (Kindle Worlds Novella) Page 2
