#ella1

Jennifer flicked the ash from her cigarette, the black residue falling down and onto the shoe of another student. “You’ve got something on your shoe,” She blew out a smoke ring.

   Should Jaime really be back at work? No, probably not, but there he was anyway, a large bottle of painkillers within arms reach. When the doctor suggested a full month off to heal entirely from his broken ribs and severe concussion, Jaime knew then and there he’d never be able to stay away from his ink and needles that long. Plus, with the studio already running painfully short on staff, the artist didn’t feel right staying gone for longer than needed. So, there he was, wincing his way through one tattoo after another. 

   When the little chime of the door sounded, Jaime felt himself somewhere between excitement and dread. Yes, it was good to get a client, and he had a free hour - but damn, was his chest and sides sore. With some effort, Jaime moved from his little studio room to the front desk, smile brightening when he saw Ella. In his months living and working in Wilmington, he’d seen her once or twice, and was pleased when she came back for more work done by him. And he liked the flirtationship he had going with her, too. “Couldn’t stay away for long, huh?” He grinned, leaning into the desk counter-top for support, not a bit of his physical pain showing on the outside. “You’re in luck. I’ve got room for one more today. What’s it gonna be this time ‘round?” 

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