Evil....Maybe Not

Marriage!?

Deku's POV:

Yesterday was a bit of a blur. I was so tired that I couldn't even form a proper sentence all day. I have to thank Kacchan; he helped a lot.

This morning, I woke up groggy and disoriented. The weight of exhaustion from yesterday still clung to me, but I pushed through. I got out of bed and shuffled down the hall, the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee guiding me to the kitchen. I prepared myself some toast, the crunchy bread providing a satisfying contrast to the smooth, rich coffee that helped kick-start my day. Despite it being Christmas break, I had to check on the shop. I'd left Dabi in charge, but I wanted to ensure everything was running smoothly.

Before I left, I gave kisses and hugs goodbye at the door. Izumi was still sleepy from hanging out with her friends the previous day, and Kacchan, who had been a rock through the rough patches, was also drained from taking care of me.

The drive to the shop was short. I played a few songs through Bluetooth to wake myself up a bit. This morning's playlist was a mix of upbeat indie rock and mellow acoustic tracks, chosen to jolt me awake and keep me energized. As "Young, Wild & Free" by Snoop Dog, Wiz Khalifa, and Bruno Mars blasted through the speakers, I felt a slight boost in my mood.

The shop, named "Ink & Echo," was a cozy, modern space with a welcoming vibe. It was located on a bustling street, its large windows letting in plenty of natural light and giving the interior a bright and airy feel. The name "Ink & Echo" reflected my belief in tattoos as a form of personal expression. "Ink" represented the artistry and craftsmanship involved, while "Echo" symbolized the lasting impression and personal significance tattoos held for those who wore them.

Inside, the walls were decorated with a blend of vibrant artworks and tattoo flash sheets showcasing the range of styles they offered—from traditional Japanese designs, rich with cultural symbolism, to intricate geometric patterns that spoke of modern minimalism. This display was more than just decoration; it was a testament to my journey. I had started as a young artist fascinated by tattoos, eventually training under a local tattooist. My dedication and talent quickly grew, leading him to save diligently and eventually open my own shop.

The shop's interior was a reflection of his artistic vision and dedication. Framed pictures of past clients proudly displayed their new tattoos, adding a personal touch to the atmosphere. These images captured not just tattoos but the joy and stories of those who had walked through the shop's doors, making "Ink & Echo" a place where stories were etched in ink and echoed through time.

The reception area featured a sleek counter with a high-backed bar stool for the staff, and the waiting area was furnished with comfortable leather chairs and a few coffee tables stacked with tattoo magazines and art books. A soft rock playlist played in the background, creating a relaxed ambiance that contrasted with the usual buzz of the shop. This setup was designed to ensure clients felt at ease, whether they were there for their first tattoo or their tenth.

As I walked through the shop, I could see that everything was running smoothly. The atmosphere was lively yet calm, with the steady hum of conversation and the occasional clink of tattoo needles. It was clear that "Ink & Echo" had become more than just a tattoo parlor; it was a community hub where art, stories, and personal connections came together.

"Hey, isn't this your break week? You should head back home and rest!" Dabi called out, his tone laced with concern as he manned the counter.

I chuckled and waved him off. "I'm alright, Dabi. I just wanted to say hello to everyone." I flashed a friendly smile, and a few customers looked up from their seats.

There was a young woman getting a delicate floral tattoo on her forearm. Her sleeve was rolled up, and she was engrossed in a magazine, her eyes darting occasionally to the artist, who was meticulously outlining the design. She gave me a cheerful nod as I passed by.