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He holds his hands up in surrender. “A’ight, say no more. Nice to meet you, Ainsley Davenport. Your ride is dope.”
Ainsley’s cheeks pinken under his perusal. I totally feel her; he’s made me blush on more than one occasion. The man can charm practically anyone out of their panties.
“It’s nice to meet you, too,” she says shyly. “And thank you.”
“Ladies, step into my humble abode.” Kai steps aside so we can enter the tattoo parlor.
I nod my head to the beat of Nipsey Hussle's "The Life" as it bumps through the overhead speakers. God, this place brings back memories. Shawn and I spent a lot of time here just chillin' when Belle was on a playdate or if my mom had a day off. I see that nothing's changed, which is comforting considering how much change I've had in my life lately. A small reception desk still sits in the corner, and framed photos still cover the walls, showcasing various designs. A workstation is set up in the middle of the floor where Kai sees most of his clients, but I know from previous visits, there's also a room in the back for people who get tattoos in areas that shouldn't be exposed to the general public.
Malakai's always kept the place in pristine condition—I could probably eat off these floors. If you ask me, that's a huge selling point when selecting a tattoo parlor. Kai's a true artist, and he takes pride in that, but he's also an astute businessman. He bought into the shop when it was struggling, and it's done really well ever since he made some minor changes to their operations. It's given him purpose, too, which keeps him out of trouble. There was a point in time where he could've easily gone in the other direction.
A burly guy with a scruffy beard steps out of the back. He looks like a big, scary biker, but in reality, he's a teddy bear.
The man smiles, showing off a set of white, perfectly straight teeth. “Well, I’ll be damned. It’s been a minute since I’ve seen your beautiful face. Look at you, girl.”
I laugh when he swoops me into a hug. “Hey, Ty.”
Tyson is Malakai’s business partner and fellow artist. He’s also the uncle I mentioned earlier.
Ty pulls back, holding on to my upper arms. “What brings you to the neighborhood, Jazz?”
“I turned eighteen recently, so I wanted to get my first tat. Rumor has it, Kai’s the best in town.”
“Damn straight,” Malakai boasts.
Ty laughs. “Baby, that boy don’t need an ego boost. His damn head barely fits through the door already.”
Kai flips off his uncle in response.
Ainsley tries to stifle her laughter, but she’s not very successful.
I tilt my head in her direction. “Tyson, this is my friend, Ainsley.”
Ty’s large hand swallows hers as they shake. “Nice to meet you, pretty lady.” He turns back to me. “I heard you moved up to a big house in the hills. Why’d you come back? I’m sure they have plenty of fancy artists up there by the rich folk.” He winks at Ainsley. “No offense, beautiful.”
She smiles. “None taken.”
I cross my arms over my chest and narrow my eyes once Ty’s attention is back on me. “Because this is my home. This is where my roots are, and that will never change. You got a problem with that?”
His lips curve. “Naw, girl. I’m just makin’ sure you’re still the same old Jazz we know and love. And from the fireballs
you’re shootin’ at me with those pretty brown eyes, I’d say there’s no doubt.”
My lips twitch. “Well, as long as we’re clear.”
“A’ight, enough small talk, Ty. Some of us have work to do.” Malakai swings his arm over my shoulder and leads me to the client’s chair. “Make yourself comfortable while I get set up.” He pulls a chair from the waiting area and scoots it closer. “Ainsley, you wanna watch?”
Ainsley’s eyes widen. “Really? I wouldn’t get in the way?”
Kai shakes his head. “Nah. It’s cool.”
Tyson wanders toward the back of the shop while Ainsley takes a seat beside me.
Kai starts digging through his trolley, setting everything he needs up top. “Same spot we talked about?”
“Yeah,” I confirm.
“So, are you going to tell me what you’re getting now?” Ainsley asks. “And where?”
