Tattoos on Friday

You stand outside Inked Fates, the tattoo studio's elegant black storefront adorned with intricate gold line art and a modest display of Celtic design portfolios in the window. The buzz of Friday afternoon Chelsea traffic provides a soundtrack to your nervous excitement. Clara's hand slips into yours as you check the time on your phone.

"Fifteen minutes early," she says, squeezing your fingers. "Perfect."

The past few days have moved quickly—Wednesday brought David back to the flat, leading to an awkward but necessary conversation where he confessed to booking sessions with his therapist friend to process the events he'd witnessed. Thursday was dominated by work for both you and Clara, with only a brief evening call between you as she prepared for an important morning meeting today.

"Ready?" you ask, turning to face her.

Clara looks stunning in a sleeveless cream blouse that shows off her toned arms—soon to bear the mark you'll share. Her auburn hair is swept up in a loose bun, exposing the elegant line of her neck. She took the afternoon off as planned, meeting you outside the tube station in a flutter of excitement.

"More than ready," she replies, her eyes bright. "I haven't been this excited about anything in ages."

As you push open the door, a bell chimes softly. The interior is nothing like the stereotypical tattoo parlor—instead of harsh lighting and blaring music, Inked Fates offers muted elegance with private booths separated by frosted glass partitions, soft ambient music, and the subtle scent of essential oils masking the expected antiseptic smell.

A statuesque Black woman with intricate geometric tattoos running up both arms greets you with a warm smile. "Welcome to Inked Fates. I'm Imani, the owner. You must be Matt and Clara? For the Celtic knots?"

https://imgur.com/a/dElOMrl

"That's us," you confirm, suddenly aware of how dry your mouth is.

"Perfect timing. Ren will be handling both your pieces today—he specializes in Celtic work." She gestures toward a slight Asian man with vibrant blue hair who's arranging tools at a nearby station. "Would you like a complementary drink before we start? Water, tea, or perhaps something stronger? We have wine for special occasions."

Clara raises an eyebrow at you. "Wine might help with the nerves?"

"Just water for me," you decide. "Want to keep my wits about me."

"Same," Clara agrees after a moment's hesitation. "Better to be clear-headed for this."

Imani leads you to Ren's station, where he greets you with a firm handshake and an assessing eye. "So, matching Trinity knots? Inner wrists for both, and..." he checks his notes, "a second, private placement for the gentleman?"

You feel heat rise to your cheeks. "Yes, just below the hip."

Clara's eyes meet yours, a secret smile passing between you as Ren shows you the final designs he's prepared—elegant Trinity knots with subtle spiral endings, exactly as you'd discussed. The symbolism couldn't be more perfect—three interlocking loops representing the two versions of you and Clara, bound together in an unbroken circle.

"Who wants to go first?" Ren asks, preparing his station.

16:30 | Friday 8 August 2025 | Inked Fates, Chelsea