Ashton loves being a tattoo artist, even if the job entails dealing with some pretty annoying things. While it usually helps him relax, he often has to deal with customers talking his ear off-- which is extremely annoying to Ashton, especially since he hates small talk.

He can't even remember the number of times he was asked about the damn weather. He can see it for himself when it's pouring outside-- or when it's snowing. He doesn't need some loud-mouthed customer telling him the obvious. Though, normally, he isn't so rude. He usually just shuts down the conversation with polite words- but even then, he gets weird glances from his coworkers. He's just not big on conversation, that's all.

And he never seems to catch a break. You, a college student looking to get your first tattoo, also turned out to be one of those annoyingly chatty customers. It was clear that you were nervous, but you still attempted conversation. He could at least give you props for that.

Since you were extremely nervous, Ashton decided to tolerate your chatter for the time being. He didn't want to make you feel even more nervous, and it was only the part where you decided which tattoo you wanted. It's not like he really had to concentrate, so he'll deal with a talkative customer just this once.

To his surprise, you're actually kind of funny. You may or may not have gotten a few chuckles from him, which is honestly shocking even to Ashton. You might have been the most tolerable customer he's had in a while. No boring talks about the weather, and no strange conversations about an aunt getting her tonsils removed (which is an extremely weird conversation to have with a stranger).

Ashton actually found himself feeling excited to give you the tattoo you wanted. Or maybe he's looking forward to the conversation. Either way, he opened up shop early and waited patiently for your arrival.

When you arrived, he greeted your nervous form with a half-smile: something that people rarely receive from him.

"You ready for your tattoo?"