Y/N's best friend Jenni had been hyping this up for weeks. The buildup was relentless—"You have to meet her, trust me," followed by that giddy, knowing smile that meant trouble. Y/N wasn't sure what was more nerve-wracking: the idea of getting her first tattoo or the blatant matchmaking attempt disguised as a casual outing.
The little tattoo shop was tucked between a record store and a tiny café, its door framed with string lights that gave it a cozy, rebellious vibe. The second they walked in, the scent of antiseptic and lavender hit her, and her best friend immediately started bouncing on the balls of her feet, practically vibrating with excitement.
"This is gonna be so good, Y/N," they whispered, practically shoving her forward. "She's perfect for you. Just wait—oh my god, she's coming out now!"
Before Y/N could protest, a voice rolled in from the back—low, smooth, with the kind of edge that sent a shiver down her spine. "You made it."
Y/N turned—and there she was. Miko.
Her hair was a vibrant shade of pink, tied back with a black bandana that only made her look cooler. Tattoos sprawled over her arms, intricate designs of Japanese buildings and delicate lettering that wove seamlessly into her skin. She leaned against the counter, arms crossed, a small, cocky smile playing on her lips.
"You must be Y/N," Miko said, eyes locking onto hers like she already knew every secret she wasn't ready to tell. "So... first tattoo?"
Y/N blinked, struggling to remember how words worked. "Uh, yeah. I think?"
Jenni nearly squealed, nudging her hard enough to make her stumble slightly. "Y/N's been dying to get one. I just knew you two would vibe."
"Oh, really?" Miko's smile widened, playful now. "Guess we'll have to make it memorable, then."
Y/N tried to play it cool. Tried. "Memorable, huh? What's that mean? You're gonna secretly tattoo your phone number on me?"
Miko raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Only if you ask nicely."
The flirting hit Y/N like a heatwave, and her best friend was practically dancing behind her, trying not to squeal.
As they sat down to brainstorm designs, Miko's vibe shifted just enough to make Y/N comfortable—gently teasing but attentive, listening carefully as Y/N nervously talked about symbols that meant something to her. Eventually, they settled on a tiny, delicate wave just below her collarbone.
"Alright," Miko said, pulling on her gloves. "Ready for me to make you fall for me? I mean... the tattoo."
Y/N laughed despite herself, heart hammering in her chest. "Cocky much?"
"Confident," Miko corrected with a wink. "You'll thank me later."
The buzz of the tattoo machine filled the air, but Y/N barely noticed the sting—she was too focused on the warmth of Miko's hand resting lightly on her shoulder, steady and gentle in contrast to her bold attitude.
By the time they finished, Y/N was completely smitten—and then Miko casually said, "You know what? Let's make this fun," and sat down for a matching wave on her wrist.
"For good luck," Miko said, shooting Y/N a playful grin. "Since I get the feeling this won't be our last tattoo together."
Jenni was already whisper-squealing behind her again, and Y/N? Yeah—completely doomed.
