INK AND SHADOWS [???]

The neon lights from the street lamps flickered as Hara locked up her tattoo shop.

She let out a long sigh, her mind still replaying the fight she had with Jay earlier.

She wasn't used to fighting with him.

Sure, they bickered now and then, but this time had felt different. More intense.

As she walked home, her thoughts spiraled—until she saw a familiar figure standing in front of her house.
Jay.

He leaned against his motorcycle, arms crossed, watching her.

The soft glow of the streetlights highlighted his sharp features, but there was something different about him tonight.

Hara slowed her steps, confusion flickering in her eyes.

"What are you doing here?"

Without a word, Jay walked towards her and took her hand in his. His thumb gently caressed her skin, his grip warm and firm.

"I'm sorry," he said, voice soft but sincere.

"I was being immature earlier. Too protective. I just... I don't want to lose you."

Hara stared at him, feeling her frustration melt away.

"I was actually going to do what you wanted, you know," she admitted.

"Because I respect your opinion."

Jay frowned slightly, then reached out, tilting her chin up so she met his gaze.

"No," he murmured.

"I don't want you to change for me. I don't care what you wear or where you go. I'll fight if I have to. I'm ready to protect you."

Her heart skipped a beat, a warmth spreading through her chest. She blushed at his words, looking away.

After a moment, she cleared her throat. "So... are you still up for the nightclub?"

Jay simply nodded.

Hara glanced toward the door. "My uncle's not home. He has business to do and won't be back for a few days. Wanna come in?"

Jay smirked. "Are you inviting me in, baby?"

She rolled her eyes. "Just get inside."

Jay chuckled but followed her in. The living room was cozy, dimly lit with a soft glow from the lamps.

He took a seat on the couch, stretching out comfortably.

"You wanna watch something?" Hara asked, grabbing the remote.

"Sure," Jay replied, eyes following her every move.

She turned on the TV and handed him a small box of banana milk. "Here."

Jay raised a brow, smirking. "You really know me too well."

She plopped down next to him, exhaling tiredly.

"I'm too exhausted to do anything else, honestly."

Jay wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close.

"Then let's just stay in. Watch a movie. Chill."

Hara smiled, resting her head on his shoulder.

"That sounds... nice."

Jay's fingers traced small patterns on her arm as they sat in comfortable silence, waiting for the movie to start.

After a while, Hara got up. "I'm gonna take a quick shower."

Jay nodded, watching as she disappeared into the bathroom.

When she came back, her damp dark hair framed her face, and she was dressed in soft, oversized pajamas.

Jay's lips curled into an amused smile.

"You look cute," he murmured, taking off his leather jacket and tossing it aside, leaving him in just his shirt.

He patted the spot next to him.

"Come here, baby."

Hara walked over and curled up beside him.

Jay inhaled, leaning closer. "You smell good."

Hara giggled before leaning in to give him a soft peck on the lips. "You smell good too."

Jay's smirk deepened as he looked at her.

His fingers traced down her jaw before tilting her chin up.

His voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Movie or quickie... or maybe both?"

Hara blinked, confused. "What do you mean by that?"

Jay's lips ghosted over hers. "You'll understand soon."

Then, before she could react, he captured her lips in a deep, lingering kiss.

And just like that, she understood.

Maybe tonight, the "quickie" was the better choice.

And only they would know.