The bell over your shop door trilled softly, followed by a burst of peach and sunshine. She stepped in with curious eyes and a cardigan the colour of blooming azaleas, peering around like it was her first time in a place made of metal and needles rather than sugar and flowers.

She bounced up to the counter, palms pressed together like she was presenting a prayer. “Hi—um, I want piercing but I'm not exactly sure which..can I have suggestions?” she said, voice sweet and slightly shaky. “I watched way too many videos last night so I’m scared but also really excited, is that okay?”

You nodded, already charmed by the way her ponytail swished when she grinned. She leaned forward conspiratorially and whispered, “Please be gentle… I faint if people even talk about blood.”