Beautiful Apparation (Tony Perry FF)

thirty-two

It's been a week since Hannah's absence. None of us are over it but we needed to set those num feelings aside because today Jeff is going to interview a new tattoo artist.

Jeff hasn't told us much about him except that he thinks the guy's 'legit' and could take over Hannah's spot. He showed us all of his drawings and work, can't lie, I'm very impressed. His line work is clean, practically flawless. I haven't even met him yet and I'm already jealous.

"Make sure to be nice." Jeff points a stern finger at all of us. "I don't want you scaring this clearly talented guy away, got it?" I've never seen Jeff so moody. Guess he can't ignore the fact that Hannah made this whole place more cheery with her presence. I still expect her to walk through the door with her handbag in one hand, coffee in the other.

We all agree to be good and continue to work once again. The clock ticks, taunting me. When is this mystery new tattoo artist going to make his arrival?Corey, Lynn, and I are ready to meet this new guy.

Out of boredom I pick up an Alternative Press magazine. This month's issue has All Time Low on it. Tyler told me last night that this was the band they were touring with next. I'd have to check them out for sure. As I'm flipping through the pages someone taps on the bell, grabbing my attention.

I look up to some guy. Just by the vibe he gave off, I knew he was the new tattooist.

"How may I help you?" I ask putting the magazine down.

"I'm Devin, looking for someone by the name of Jeff."

I take in this guy's features. He has a sleeve of tattoos, his eyebrow is pierced, blue eyes, black hair. I can admit to myself that he's good looking. I almost forget to speak, but pull myself together. First impressions are the most important ones after all.

"He's over there." I point and he walks off after murmuring a 'Thanks.'

Lynn immediately comes up to me after he left. "I'd probably go straight for him."

"Stop lying to yourself," I giggle. "You're too gay to function."

She rolls her eyes. "Mean Girls references are outdated. Please stop."

"I'd probably go gay for him," Corey butts in. We give him a look. "Joking. I have a girlfriend, remember?"

"Yes and I know right, she's real!" Lynn chuckles. "How did that happen?"

He rolls his eyes. "Well I don't see you getting any."

"Well I don't need any," She retorts.

"You guys are acting like sixth graders," I interrupt. "Shut up."

"Someone is sassy today," Lynn laughs. "What's gotten you all heated?"

I shrug, "Nothing. I'm just so fucking bummed. I know you guys all feel the same way, Hannah isn't here."

They nod their heads in agreement.

"But who knows?" Corey begins. "This Devin guy might be a keeper."

"We'll see," I mumble.

>>>

I grab my bag and sling it over my shoulder. Even though Devin has been here all day, I haven't talked to him since he first got here. I don't stress off of it, it's time for me to get the hell out of here anyway. Before I can leave the shop Jeff's voice calls me back. Great.

"What's up?" I ask, walking back into the entrance.

Why did he have to stop me from leaving? Home sounds pretty awesome to be at right now.

"Mind giving Devin a tour of the place real quick? I would do it, but I gotta go to my sister's dinner rehearsal and if I'm la-"

"Jeff, shut up. I got this. Go have fun at the rehearsal dinner."

"I owe you." He hurries off, not before scuffing my hair. I find Devin sitting on one of the chairs we tattoo people in.

"So," I slowly make my way up to him. "It's official now?"

He stands up and smiles. "Guess so. You're Audrey, right?"

"That is me. So I need to take you to look around. There isn't much to see so it'll be quick and we can both go home."

"Alright, what's first?"

"Well obviously the space we're in right now is the 'lobby.' We tattoo people here and sell merchandise as you can see. Let's go to my territory."

I take him past the curtain where Corey and my station stand.

"This is where we pierce. You most likely won't ever be back here, but it's worth pointing out." I shrug.

He observes the photos around my mirror and points to one. It's of me and Kyle. His birthday.

"Your boyfriend?" He asks.

"No," I say quickly. "My brother."

He leaves it at that and I show him the inventory room. Every time I'm in here it reminds me of that heated moment Tony and I had. I'd repeat it over and over again.

"That's it," I shrug. "Can't get lost in here."

He chuckles and together we both walk out of the shop. I also teach him how to lock it up. He seems to be getting everything I'm telling him, which is good because I don't have to repeat myself.

"So, I'll see you tomorrow?" I hold out my hand.

He shakes it.

"Tomorrow."

>>>

"Did you guys make-out in the inventory room?" Hannah gushes on the computer screen.

Tony's sitting on my bed as I talk to her, but she obviously can't see him. His reaction to her question is priceless, I have to laugh.

"No Hannah, I'm very professional. I thought you knew this."

She puts her hands up in defense. "Whatever you say. I can't believe you guys are replacing me! I've only been gone for a week."

I roll my eyes.

"You know I'd rather have you here right now. How is it over there anyways? Enjoying your crumpets and tea?"

"Stereo type much?" She giggles. "No, but it's actually quite nice. Here's the big news though, I'm going to be launching my own tattoo shop here. Black Stabbath."

"Wow, that's a big deal Hannah. I'm so happy for you. Oli is lucky to have such a talented lady."

"I cringe at that word 'lady.'" She makes a sour face. "Listen, I gotta go. Oliver is taking me out to eat tonight."

"Have fun!"

"Muah!" She blows me a kiss before logging off.

"You guys are really close," Tony says from beside me.

"I know." I sigh closing my laptop.

"So the new guy, is he really that 'dreamy' profile you told Hannah."

"He's cute, but you're cuter." I pinch his cheek and he blushes. I love the fact that I can make him blush.

He grabs my laptop and places it to the side. I end up being straddled in his lap, that's when he begins to kiss me, over and over again. I love how soft and sweet his lips were. They fit perfectly with mine, everything just feels so right when he kisses me.

"Tony," I pull away. I want to say it out loud. Not in my head anymore. He waits. "Never mind."

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so new guy devin! can't wait till you guys find out how he's a big part in the story. pay attention (;