Little Red and Her Wolf

Chapter 1

It was cold as balls in Maine even in September. You can only imagine the chill that mid-October gave.

Rowan sighed heavily, watching the fog her breath made as she leaned against her truck, thankfully it wasn't currently pouring rain. She should be waiting in the car but her boss, George, has a challenging time recognizing her through any kind of glass. His eyes were going fast but his ears were still that of a hawk, thank God for small miracles.

She worked as a bartender at a nice bar that was older than George. It was a shit pile before he bought it; he fixed it up all nice. It had all the modern fixings a normal bar should have, like a dishwasher. Though George preferred the fancy glassware to be hand-washed.

This place was mostly full of regulars every night but there was the occasional new person, it kept the job interesting.

George's old pick-up truck drove up next to her own. George took his thick glasses off before opening his door. George was definitely a handsome ladies' man when he was younger. It still showed from time to time. Even now that he was in his early seventies.

"Sorry Ro, the old truck was giving me trouble again," he said as he pulled his bundle of keys out of his pocket.

"It's okay, I suspected as much anyway. You really should sell that old girl and get something newer," she said, her Louisiana accent slipping out. George scoffed as he unlocked and opened the front door of the bar.

"And get something like your fancy truck? I'm fine, new cars have way too many buttons now n' days. Now get in here before you freeze," he said holding the door open for her.

The next hour was mostly Rowan setting up the bar and the tables. She'd greet other co-workers as they came in. The place did offer food, so they did have some kitchen staff.

She was the main bartender though, there was only one other, Steve. Steve was a sore on Rowans' backside that was for sure. He only came in some nights, but he'd always get too close and friendly with her. She told George this but didn't tell him how close Steve got, just that he made her uncomfortable. As a result, he cut some of his hours or scheduled him on days she wasn't working.

So gave a forced smile as Steve walked into the bar. It was a Saturday night, the night that had the most traffic. So, she couldn't fault George for bringing him in to help.

Steve was an attractive guy, she had to admit. His silky dark blonde hair and blue eyes, along with his athletic build brought in most of the female customers. That was the only perk he had.

Though she knew he abused that attraction. On more than one occasion she'd walked in on him fucking some random woman during his break in the bathroom. The women were always willing that was clear, but he didn't have to do it in the bar.

"Hey Beautiful, glad you're working tonight," he said flashing his brilliant player smile.

Rowan tried to resist the urge to vomit, "Yeah," she swiftly replied. She aggressively scrubbed the martini glass she was washing. Steve didn't push it, thank God, he only nodded and went to clock in.

At four pm on the dot, two regulars wandered in.

"Henry, Kevin! What can I get y'all tonight?" she cheerfully said as they sat at the bar. These two brothers came here every Saturday. Mostly to get away from the wives and kids but they were one of the kinder customers she's had.

"Just the regular two Guinness," Kevin, the older brother said.

"No, actually I'd like to try something different tonight," Henry quickly said.