Page 2 of Challenged By the Ex-Military Tattoo Artist

"Okay," I hear myself saying before my brain can catch up. "A small tattoo, just to get a taste of your work."

Max's grin broadens, and I can't help but wonder what I've just gotten myself into.

Chapter 2 - Max

Maria's eyes widen slightly as the words leave her mouth, almost as if she can't believe she agreed to get a tattoo. I can't help but smirk, enjoying the way I've managed to catch this put-together woman off guard.

"Well, if you're free, we can do it right now," I suggest, pulling out my phone to show her some examples of my work. "That way you can get a taste of the needle before fully committing to renting me the space."

I scroll through the photos, showcasing my bold linework and shading skills. Maria leans in, examining the images with curiosity.

"These are really good," she admits, chewing on her lower lip. "But I'm a little nervous about the pain."

I laugh softly.

"Don't worry, I'll be gentle. How about we start small?" I tap on a simple butterfly design. "This could look nice on that delicate wrist of yours."

Her eyes dart to my finger hovering over the picture, and she gives a tentative nod.

"Okay, yeah. A tiny butterfly to start."

Without a word, I step closer, gently taking her wrist in my hand and turning it over to expose the smooth, unblemished skin on the inside. She inhales sharply at my touch but doesn't pull away.

"This is perfect," I murmur, letting my thumb graze over her pulse point. "The needle will barely hurt here."

Maria's throat bobs as she swallows hard, and I fight back a grin. Getting a rise out of her is proving to be immensely satisfying.

"Should we go ahead and get you set up?" I ask, meeting her wide eyes. "I can have you marked up in no time."

There's a brief hesitation, then she gives another small nod.

"Yeah, okay. Let's do it."

Grabbing my portable inking kit, I begin prepping the necessary supplies while stealing glances her way.

Up close, it's impossible not to notice just how beautiful she is. Long lashes frame those expressive eyes, and her lips are full and inviting. My gaze drifts down to the tantalizing glimpse of cleavage peeking out from her v-neck top, and I have to clench my fists to maintain control.

I quickly remind myself this is just a simple tattoo, not an excuse to ogle the client.

"Have a seat," I instruct, gesturing to the chair as I finish setting up. "And try to relax. Tensing up will only make it worse."

Maria obediently takes a seat, though the tight set of her shoulders betrays her nerves. I grab a cloth and some disinfectant, gently taking her wrist again.

"I'm just going to clean the area first," I explain, keeping my voice low and even.

She gives a jerky nod but doesn't speak. With practiced motions, I swab the inside of her wrist, feeling the rapid flutter of her pulse beneath my fingertips.

"You sure you're ok with this butterfly?" I ask, forcing myself to meet her eyes instead of letting my gaze travel elsewhere.

"Y-yes," she manages, her voice slightly shaky. "I want to start small."

"Smart move," I praise with a hint of a smile. "We'll go nice and slow for your first time."

Her pupils dilate at my choice of words, and I mentally kick myself. Get your head out of the gutter, Max.

Shaking off the inappropriate thoughts, I transfer the stencil design and quickly prepare the tattoo gun. This part I can handle without issue - it's the tempting proximity to Maria's entrancing beauty that has me struggling.

"Deep breaths," I remind her as the needle buzzes to life. "I'll make this as painless as possible."

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