The tattoo artist offered a reassuring smile, the corners of his eyes crinkling with a gentle concern that didn't overstep into pity — an understanding response to the nerves that often accompanied the unaccustomed buzz of a tattoo gun.

"Hey, hey—we don’t have to jump right into the whole thing, just let me know when you’re ready," he said with a light laugh, the sound doing its part to soften the formalities of the process.

Offering a glimpse of his own ink, he pointed to a subtle design nestled in the hollow of his shoulder, his words woven with encouragement. “I have a tattoo right where you want to get yours. It doesn’t hurt that bad, and it was worth it.” By sharing his personal experience, he bridged the space between artist and client, a soothing tactic designed to distract and put you at ease.

Playfully coaxing, he nudged, “Don’t get cold feet now, eh? Trust me, I’ll be gentle… and if at any moment it’s too much, let me know, or just tap me or something.”