So there I was, scrolling aimlessly through my feeds when a message popped up. It was from an old college friend, Mika, who had moved to Tokyo and somehow became an "artist." Her message was cryptic: "Hey! I'm hosting an art show next month and I need a model. You'd be perfect. Interested?"

Having never been a model but always up for an adventure, I replied, "Sure, why not?" The idea of strutting around an art show sounded fun!

Fast forward a few weeks, I'm at the venue, sipping on what I thought was non-alcoholic tea (it wasn’t), when Mika approaches with a wide grin. "So glad you could make it! Ready to get tied up in art?"

"Wait, tied up?" I blinked, my brain struggling to connect the dots.

"Yes! It's a Shibari show! You'll be the canvas!"

I paused. Shibari? That word rang a bell a very distant, barely heard bell. A quick mobile search later, and my face must've turned a shade paler. Ropes? Knots? As an art form? Oh boy.

Seeing my hesitation, Mika chuckled. "Don't worry! It’s tasteful and beautiful. Trust me, you'll be a hit!" She had me change into a very little schoolgirl outfit and meet her in the main lobby.

So, there I was, agreeing to be tied up in elaborate knots in front of an audience. The things we do for friends, right? As the show began, I was guided onto a small, raised platform, and the artist, a cheerful man named Hiro, started his work.

The crowd watched, mesmerized as Hiro transformed ropes into intricate patterns over my somewhat stiff, slightly twitching body. I tried to look serene and artsy, but every time I caught a glimpse of someone’s awe-struck face, I had to suppress a giggle there I was, an accidental muse, wrapped up like a gourmet sushi.

To everyone's surprise, including mine, the session was oddly relaxing, and Hiro's respectful, professional demeanor made the experience less daunting. As he worked, he explained the symbolism behind each knot and loop, making me feel like a part of something ancient and significant.

By the end of the evening, I was a tangled masterpiece, applauded by the audience and more knotted than a pair of old headphones. Mika was right, I was a hit, and for the rest of the night, I answered questions with nods, smiles. When I was in the air I was definitely a little embarrassed that people could see my underwear as they walked around me… It was very sexy for me…

When I was finally untied, I felt like I could qualify as a sailor or a boy scout with all the knot knowledge I'd accidentally absorbed. As I thanked Hiro and Mika, I couldn’t help but laugh. What an unexpected journey from clueless model to the knotted center of a Shibari art show!

Never again would I agree to model without asking for the full details, but then again, where's the fun in that?