“Anyway, the really cool news is I’m opening my own tattoo shop!” Her favorite customers clapped and encouraged her. But her glance went sideways to Nico at the judging table. He’d stopped looking down at the ballots, his eyes on her. “And I guess I should mention that I’ll be partnering with none other than your favorite local musician, Nico Cruz.” He shot her a look but then shook his head in exasperation. He laughed and stood, giving a casual wave to the crowd.
