Page 4 of Love in Design

“I can’t be everything you know?” I tease. Jim laughs. “So, Jim, are you going to get a tattoo?”

“I’m thinking about it. Have you done these tattoos?” Jim is walking around checking out the artwork on the wall. We don’t have pictures of tattoos but show the tattoos on people.

“Yes. The photos with the copyright symbol on them mean that we won’t do any more of those as they are a one-of-a-kind tattoo.”

“My kids will like that you do that as they talk all the time about getting a family tattoo, but it drives their mother crazy.” He chuckles. “I’ll be back around five when the streets are all lit up, and people will be here. I wanted to get pictures of the outside before it gets crazy.” Jim walks away. “Thanks for bringing your business to Cupid’s Cove and buying baked goods from the wife.” He was out the door before I could say anything.

“Seems like a nice guy.” Ryan comments.

“The whole town is like a Hallmark movie, all so friendly. They’ve helped Victoria and me.”

“Of course, the hot single dad covered in tattoos,” Bethani teases.

I roll my eyes. “Finish the t-shirt shelves.” I walk to check the POS system to check if it’s all connected.

Could I date someone, run this shop, and take care of Victoria?

Chapter Four

LAURA

The talk of the office and parents is the tattoo shop opening today. A lot of the moms are going to it. I heard from Lily there was another handsome man at the studio. I should attend because Nate is a parent. I try to do it for everyone, and if I don’t show up, what will people think?

I look at the time on the microwave. “Shit. I’m going to be late.” I get into my car and drive to Bow and Arrow Drive, but there is no parking, so I pull into a parking lot about two blocks away. I’m glad I bundled up for this. As I walk, kids shout, “Hi, Miss Laura,” as they run past me.

I wave back and say hello. The kids are all a blur, so I can’t tell who is who. Lily is watching Victoria while Mayor Jim does his speech. It seems like I made it in time. Lily summons me to stand with her.

“Glad you could make it. Didn’t I tell you that guy was a hottie?” I can’t help but giggle. Lily is seventy years old, but she sometimes reminds me of a teenager with how she talks.

“Welcome everyone to the ribbon cutting of our newest business. This is a fantastic addition to Bow and Arrow Drive. I know Cupid’s Arrow Tattoo Parlor will do beautiful artwork while telling stories special to their clients. Ryan and Nate have opened five shops together, their sixth one being here in Cupid’s Cove. Many celebrities seek these two out, so you know they’re talented and only employ the best. Nate Sullivan is now a resident of Cupid’s Cove along with his precious daughter, who you all know and adore already, Miss Victoria.” Everyone claps. “Victoria, do you want to come up here and help your dad and Ryan cut the red ribbon?”

I notice she looks at Nate, who nods. The way his face lights up when she is around, or someone mentions his daughter tells me what kind of father he is. He adores her, and she walks on water. There is nothing that girl could do that could disappoint him. She runs from the lady on the other side of Lily and helps hold the scissors, which are half her size. Once they cut the ribbon, everyone claps, and there are a few cheers.

“Hi, my name is Nate, as many of you know, and this is my best friend and co-owner, Ryan. He doesn’t live around here, but he and his beautiful wife Bethani Joy came to help celebrate this opening. We’re most excited about this location as it has become the forever home of my daughter Victoria and me. You have welcomed us with open arms, and as a single parent, I couldn’t ask for anything more. So come on in to check out some of the artwork we’ve already done, some delicious treats from Bishop’s Bakery, and don’t forget to book your tattoo appointments. Thank you again for being here with us.” Nate nods and moves around Ryan.

“Oh, Laura, this is Bethani. The elementary school principal I was telling you about.” We shake hands and make small talk since the line to get in so long.

“This is crazy. Are these women single?” Bethani is curious.

“No. Most have husbands but enjoy flirting with the hot single dad,” I blurt out before covering my mouth. Lily raises her eyebrow. “Don’t.” I pretend to scold her.

“So, you think I’m hot.” I mentally slap my forehead before turning around to Nate and Ryan standing there.

“No. I was repeating what the moms say.” I try to sound believable but end up stuttering my way through the sentence. “Not believing me, are you?”

“No, not really.” Nate laughs. “Thanks for being here. I was hoping you’d show up.”

“You were?” He piques my curiosity. It was his turn to get flustered. He tries to start a sentence three times but can’t get the words out. We laugh. Someone yells his name, and he apologizes before leaving to go inside. Bethani is running the computer and has some questions. Lily and I finally make it into the studio.

“Do you have any tattoos?” Nate’s hot breath hits my ear, making me shiver.

“No. I’ve always wanted one but too scared to get anything done.”

“Virgin skin, my favorite. Why don’t you make an appointment to come in sometime? We can do a special session after hours if you’re worried about anyone seeing you.”

Could I let him touch me, or would I burst into flames?

Chapter Five

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