by
Welcome to the small town of Appleton where if it’s meant to happen, it will.
Locryn, a Fae with a love of rain and puddles, has been working as a hair stylist in the friendly town for the past five years. He enjoys his life, full of friends who might not know the truth about him, but they care about him all the same. Which is why, when a new man moved to town, the ladies who frequented Locryn’s salon were quick to tell him about the tattooed stranger.
“That’s why we’re in Appleton. No paranormals. No covens. No wolf packs and no weird mages running around in their fancy robes trying to summon me every five minutes..."
Demon Zac moved to Appleton for the peace and quiet. He was tired of getting himself into trouble, just trying to fit in. In Appleton he could be himself, ply his business as a well-respected tattoo artist, and… and… well, a few hobbies were mentioned, but for now Zac was focusing on his business and getting to know the locals.
“If it’s funny business you’re after, then close the door and ensure the blinds are drawn. No point in giving the locals out for their evening meal a free show.”
The Fates are canny ladies who know when to give a subtle push when it comes to bringing unlikely couples together. Although, to be fair, this time the fault could lie with Locryn’s interfering father.
But when Locryn and Zac do meet face to face for the first time, Zac is shocked to learn that sex and a bite aren’t enough to be considered a couple in the quaint town. There’s a courting ritual to go through as well… and couch buying?
This very short (22,800 words) story is a standalone that I was compelled to write – I wanted sweetness, and fun, with just a tiny bit of angst. I think this one hit the spot. This is a complete story and can definitely be read as standalone.
- 1 Read list
Cover Artists:
Genres:
Pairings: M-M
Heat Level: 4
Romantic Content: 5
Ending: Click here to reveal
Character Identities: Gay
Protagonist 1 Age: Ageless/Immortal
Protagonist 2 Age: Ageless/Immortal
Tropes: Fated Mates / Soul Mates
Series Type: Same Universe / Various Characters
“I’ve always been partial to tattoos myself.” Locryn straightened, looking over Mabel’s head and checking her hair in the mirror. “When they are well done, they can be a beautiful and very artistic way of expressing individuality. Many people get a tattoo as a personal memorial for someone special. I’ve always thought people with tattoos were unique and interesting people.”
“You’ll love Mr. Tattoo Guy then.” Mabel giggled. “I haven’t seen him myself, but Peter at the shop claimed the man had ink all over his neck and arms, right down to the tops of his fingers, would you believe? And those were just the ones he could see. Jenny claimed a man who would tattoo his fingers would likely tattoo other appendages, too, if you get my drift.”
READ MORE“I always get your drift, Mabel, my sweet.” Resting his hands lightly on the older woman’s shoulders, Locryn sent the tiniest trickle of magic through to her frail bones. “There you go. Looking as gorgeous as ever for another week.”
“You’re a miracle worker, Locryn. I swear, I always feel ten years younger after a session in your chair.” Mabel’s smile was genuine. “You know, Mr. Tattoo Guy has got long hair, too, similar to yours, only his is black, by all accounts. I like the pink in yours. You never know. If he’s a colorful character, he might like your look, too.”
“I’m sure if Mr. Tattoo Guy needs any hair tips, or a trim, he’ll come and tell me himself.” Locryn laughed as he helped Mabel out of her seat. “I already have my hands full keeping my lady clients happy. Mr. Tattoo Guy will have to make an appointment just like everyone else.”
“It wouldn’t do you any harm to drop around and leave him a business card,” Mabel suggested with a wink as she headed for the door. “You know, a friendly business gesture. You might try to hand it to him, and he’s so bedazzled by your beautiful eyes that he drops it, and you both bend to reach for it at the same time. Then you bang heads and laugh as you recognize you’re made for each other.”
“Get along with you, you scheming woman.” Locryn laughed as he held the door open for her. “I don’t need one of your meet-cute situations. I’m perfectly happy with my single life.”
“This is Appleton,” Mabel called out as she left. “If it’s meant to be, it will be.”
COLLAPSE
