Touch of Ink

Every year tattoo fest came, it left amazing experiences in the minds of all in attendance. Stories and captured memories were alluring enough to make Makayla insist she would not miss this one. A ticket was secured, friend group assembled, outfit planned, and an off day requested. This would be her first time at the event she would never forget.

With the day beginning, the anticipation of finally living this experience filled her with excitement. Upon arrival, Makayla was officially done putting this off. The army of booths displaying their creations from jewellery, books, food, collectibles and the many stars of the show each sketch, picture and presentation of unique talents decorated across the space from tattoo artist who flew in just to be there.

Tattoos had always amazed her, not just the pain tolerance but the results of enduring it while artist showed their style using skin as a canvas. The depth of their meanings and flawless lines were enchanting to her. The stations were so full of artistry it was like a siren call to every chair in view even though the thought alone scared her. Makayla had never had a tattoo, nothing past the pierced ears she had from a baby.

She watched as her friend Tae got comfortable to discuss his next tattoo, a wolf done in a style called Trash polka with an artist whom he been in contact with from New York, a tall blonde hair woman well decorated with colourful ink and looking at her showcase, that woman belonged at that expo.

Makayla ran around the building taking in all she could wishing to somehow gain the courage to get her first tattoo. Would she scream? Or cry? What if she passed out from the pain in the middle of the event? Breathe Makayla. She watched as her friends got their tattoos and piercings, flinching even more than them just thinking about the pain. Maybe next year? That was all she thought.

She sat recording her friend getting two tragus piercings, not even blinking at the pain which blew Makayla's mind. Did she even feel anything? Alyssa, a young pretty woman with long red braids was the definition of short and sweet with her outspoken nature and warm energy but truly she handled that like a gangster.

"Which hurts more? A tattoo or a piercing?" Makayla asked Alyssa who was about to get her own first tattoo.

"Well, I can't speak on the tat just yet, but the piercing wasn't bad" She replied hopping off the station. "Think you will face your fears today?"

Makayla shrugged at the question thinking as they left the booth. Strolling around the space, her eyes fell on the games that stood by the stage, surrounded by a crowd who were excited for the giant Jenga competition to begin. Makayla loved Jenga from the family games she played when she was younger.

"You should compete, Kayla." Alyssa said as they moved closer.

The Mc announced the beginning of the competition and the prize of a free tattoo from a randomly chosen artist. Maybe this would be the push she needed, knowing her competitive spirit would carry her, Makayla went to the front to join the games instantaneously shaking as it began.

Taking her place at the table from the start the game was fierce. The way the loud and energetic MC commentated every move did little to calm the nerves but never broke her concentration. Her opponent, a tall man sporting basketball shorts and a too calm demeanour, was cocky as he swiftly removed each brick with an air of confidence.

Shaking, Makayla analysed the bricks hoping they would not fall from her touch. The game was intense and calculated, heated by the determination of them both. The tower gained more height at the cost of its stability with every move and then, just like that! The structure fell to the floor as Makayla's opponent tried to yank with a speed that it just could not handle.

The Mc shouted for the DJ to play the music as they had a winner and a free voucher for a small tattoo from the artist at booth thirteen. Makayla basked in cheers for her victory, basically skipping cheerfully to show her friends. Through their congratulations they wondered what tattoo she would get and giving her fear would she even indulge in her own prize.