“Sass, Delatorre had cameras in our house. How can I relax?”

“Fuck! He had what? Come on, let’s get inside and figure this shit out.” She says, taking me by the hand to the front door.

Walking inside we are surrounded by the designs on the red painted walls. Each intricate piece of work brings something new to life for someone. Hearing the buzzing of the tattoo gun in the back room, I’m immediately itching for a new tattoo. I have a sparrow on my right hip in memory of my mother and a robin on my wrist to represent the bond Sass and I share. Maybe Sass is right, and it’s time to get that tattoo I’ve been wanting on my left hip. Yes, I have a thing for bird tattoos and it drives Sass crazy.

Tripp is leaning against the counter talking to a beautiful lady. She’s probably in her fifties, but time has treated her well. There’s vibrancy in her eyes as she’s chatting with Tripp, her face telling the story of a strong woman. We approach the counter.

“Doll, Sass, this is Momma C. And Momma C, you remember Rex. This is Doll and Sass.”

Introductions out of the way, I’m overwhelmed with a sense of comfort. Momma C gives me a feeling of home. Being around her reminds me of being with the ol’ ladies of the club. The level of nurturing and compassion that is held in the depths of Momma C’s eyes wash over me. I’m smiling and I’m comfortable here even with all the chaos surrounding my life. Tripp was right, I’m safe here. Even without meeting Jared, it’s obvious Momma C will protect those around her.

A man with spiky hair, gaged ears, and full sleeved tattoos emerges from the back room. He’s followed by a man that walks over to Momma C pulling out his wallet, making it obvious he is a client. Immediately, the spiky hair man greets Tripp and Rex with that man half hug, back slap shit. When he’s done, he stares at me momentarily. He extends his hand. When I place my hand in his, he holds it.

“Name’s Delilah, but everyone calls me Doll. You must be Jared.” I say looking into his eyes. They tell the story of a strong man.

“Beautiful name for a beautiful woman. Tripp’s a lucky mother fucker.”

I laugh at his comment. “Tripp’s not my man.”

He pulls me into a hug and whispers in my ear, “With the death glare he’s giving me, I think he may disagree, Doll.” He kisses my cheek before releasing me.

He greets Sass quickly and escorts us to the back office area. The client is done paying, raises his hand in a slight salute wave in goodbye as he exits the building.

“Mom’s locking up. Here’s the key to the apartment upstairs. I’ll be here the whole time. No one will get to you without getting through me.” Jared informs us as he’s handing Tripp a key.