Page 19 of Ghost Of You

We arrive at the corner where the studio stands, a cosy refuge amidst the stormy weather. A modest space, where creativity thrives amid the organised chaos of sketches, ink bottles, and tattoo machines. I unlock the door and push it open, letting the soft light spill out into the gloomy morning.

“After you,” I say, holding the door open for Ethan.

“Why, thank you, kind sir,” he replies with a mock bow, stepping inside.

The studio’s familiar clutter welcomes us. I head over to the reception desk, readying it for the day’s work, while Ethan makes himself comfortable on the couch, stretching out with a relaxed sigh.

“So, what are you working on today?” Ethan asks, glancing at the array of reference photos and sketches I’ve spread out.

I pull out the detailed plans for Taylor’s tattoo. “It’s a full-leg sleeve—floral and butterfly work, inspired by a picture of Laelia. Should be a good challenge.”

Ethan raises an eyebrow. “Sounds ambitious. I’ve seen some of Taylor’s ideas; she’s got a strong vision. You’ll make it look amazing, though. You always do.”

I appreciate his confidence. “Thanks. It’s going to take some time and effort, but I’m up for it.”

As I start sketching out the design, the rain begins to intensify outside, creating a rhythmic patter against the windows. Ethan grabs a stack of magazines from the coffee table and starts flipping through them absentmindedly.

“So, how are you doing?” Ethan asks, breaking the silence. “I know things have been a bit hectic lately.”

I glance at him, touched by his concern. “I’m managing. Laelia’s been busy organising everything for the baby. It’s surreal but exciting. We’re both just trying to get everything in order.”

Ethan’s expression reveals his dissatisfaction with my answers. “Okay. Just... if you need to talk or anything, you know I’m here. It’s important to not keep everything bottled up.”

I’m taken aback by his insistence, feeling a knot of unease tighten. “Thanks, Ethan. I appreciate it.”

He nods, though he seems unconvinced by my reassurances. “Alright. Just remember, sometimes things can seem worse than they are. Don’t let it all pile up.”

I give him a weak smile, sensing that there’s something he’s not saying. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Chapter nine

For the past three hours, I’ve been immersed in a blissful loop of drawing and rocking out to some high-energy tunes, with "Sin on Skin" by Those Damn Crows currently blasting through my speakers. I've lost count of how many times I've seen this band live, but their performances never fail to leave me in awe. Last year was particularly unforgettable, with concerts in both Chepstow and Tenby standing out as highlights.

In Chepstow, the band played at the historic Chepstow Castle, and the main singer, Shane, delivered a jaw-dropping moment by scaling to the top of the castle and leaning precariously over the edge during the concert. It was a stunt that seemed straight out of a rock star’s playbook, demonstrating just how fearless—and perhaps a bit reckless—he can be. Shane has a knack for these adrenaline-fuelled antics. At every show I've attended, he's pulled off some kind of daring escapade, whether it's climbing over the edge of a balcony, crowd surfing in an inflatable boat at the Tenby gig, or scaling structures he probably shouldn’t be climbing.

I've already got tickets for their next concert in mid-October, and I’m eagerly anticipating what Shane will come up with this time. Laelia, Ethan, and I will be there, though I’ve been trying to convince Laelia to skip this one since she’ll be heavily pregnant by then. However, she’s adamant about attending and insists we’ll be comfortable sitting in the balcony seats.

Since we started dating, Laelia and I have racked up quite a number of concert experiences, with our tally comfortably in the double digits. We’ve rocked out to Alter Bridge, Black Veil Brides, Those Damn Crows, Mason Hill, Tribeless, Valhalla Awaits, Halestorm, and several others. Our very first concert together was Alter Bridge, setting the stage for many more unforgettable nights of live music.

15th December 2018

The atmosphere in the AO Arena in Manchester is electric, a pulse of anticipation vibrating through every corner of the packed venue. The crowd's chants rise and fall like waves, each roar a testament to the shared excitement that fills the air. Flashing lights dance across the crowd, creating a kaleidoscope of colours that momentarily turns each face into a living canvas of exuberance. The strum of an electric guitar reverberates through the arena, a sonic wave that sweeps over the sea of eager fans, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.

From our vantage point, I watch as the crowd, a sea of enthusiastic souls, gathers tightly around the barriers, their pints held high in anticipation. The arena is a hive of energy,every seat occupied, a clear sign of the night's sold-out success. The crew on stage scurries about, their movements a blend of urgency and precision as they ensure every piece of equipment is perfectly tuned for the performance. Their frenetic energy is a prelude to the magic about to unfold.

Nestled in our seats, I glance over at Laelia, who has propped her feet comfortably on the seats in front of us. She’s indulging in a small tub of pick and mix, a treat that cost me nearly eight pounds but is worth every penny just to see her smile. Her laughter and contentment are my own personal symphony, and I find myself lost in the sight of her.

Tonight, Laelia has outdone herself. Her hair is elegantly curled, her eyes defined by a sultry line of eyeliner, and her lips painted a bold, passionate red. She’s dressed in black leather pants that accentuate her graceful figure and an Alter Bridge band t-shirt, a nod to the band we're here to see. She is a vision of effortless glamour and radiance.

As the lights dim around us, the arena transforms into a stage of ethereal beauty. Beams of light cut through the darkness, casting everything in a dreamy, almost cinematic glow. Time seems to slow as I watch Laelia’s face illuminated by the lights, her smile widening with each passing moment. Her eyes sparkle with excitement, and her cheeks flush with a soft, rosy hue. In that fleeting moment, it’s impossible not to feel overwhelmed by how stunning she looks.

She is mine, and the realisation fills me with a profound sense of joy. As her smile broadens, she swiftly moves her feet and stands, drawn into the growing frenzy of the crowd. I stand beside her, our hands intertwined, and we cheer together as Sevendust strides onto the stage. The band’s arrival ignites a fresh wave of enthusiasm, and the arena erupts in cheers.

In that moment, surrounded by the collective energy of the crowd and the magic of the night, it feels as though time haspaused just for us. Every note, every cheer, every shared glance is a memory in the making, and I’m grateful to be here, sharing it all with Laelia.

An hour and a half flies by as the opening acts wrap up, and the excitement for the main act builds. I decide to grab a couple of beers to pass the time, so I make my way to the bar. As I wait in line, my thoughts are lost in the music and the night ahead when I suddenly feel a tap on my shoulder.

I turn around to find Heather standing there. Her long, blonde hair cascades in waves, and her blue eyes, deep and reflective like the ocean, lock onto mine. Her tattoos, a vivid display of ink that seems to tell stories of their own, adorn her arms and neck, giving her a striking appearance.

---