Page 65 of Scars of Silk

“Not yet.”

“You’re being a bastard.”

“I know.” He sighs down the line. “I know and believe me it’s hurting me more than I’d like to admit.”

“So stop being an idiot.”

“I’ll try.”

“I’ve got to go.”

“Are you coming into the office?”

“Do you need me? I could do with the day off.”

“Granted.” He pauses for a second. “Listen, Si. I’m your oldest friend, and I will say this one last time.”

“Yeah?”

“Have you ever thought maybe you should just leave them all to it? That maybe your mum’s choices are just that. You can’t keep giving up your life to protect her.”

“What sort of daughter would I be if I did that? I’d be no better than Will.”

“You’d be happy.”

My mind skitters to last night.

“Bye, Elijah.”

“Think about it.”

“Go home, Elijah. Stop being a dick.”

He hangs up and I smile a little to myself. Can I do what he says? Can I just leave my mum to make her own choices?

I don’t get the train back to the flat, nor do I get my car and go to my parents' home. Instead, I get the tube to Camden and search through every tattoo shop until I find the one I want.

“Can I help?” The girl behind the counter smacks her gum. Jeez, she’s hot in a way I did not pull off when I played receptionist for Dan. Her hair is pink; her clothes denim and leather, and tight. Pale skin, ink, and tattoos make her stand out.

I pull at my baggy jumper regretting my wardrobe choices.

“I’m looking for Dan. Hoping he can fit me in.”

She tilts her head, her gum smacking again as she evaluates me. “Dan, you’ve got a late walk-in.”

He walks in to view, and my mouth dries a little as he sweeps his dark gaze over me. “Alright, darling? What can I do for you?”

“I want a tattoo.” I raise my chin.

“No chance.”

The receptionist twists her gaze between us.

“You can’t turn me away. I’m a paying customer.”

He steps closer, lowering his head to murmur against my ear. “I can and will. I’ve told you what I think about that.”

Fuck, he’s such a turn on. I literally melt with his body close to mine. “I’ll pay the next available artist then.” I raise my voice. “Two thousand pounds to have a tattoo done this afternoon.”