The Mechanic

Prolugue

He was soaking wet.

The rain continued to pour, letting me see more of his body features behind his white shirt. The headlights of his car were giving me a clearer picture despite the cruel showers the black sky was dripping.

Did I just see a butterfly tattoo? And birds?

"What happened?"

I blinked, taking away my sight from his toned stomach and chest. He was staring at me. I couldn't comprehend if he was annoyed or what. But one thing was sure, he caught me checking him out.

Well, shit.

I tightened my grip to the umbrella I was holding, then hastily brushed the stubborn bangs away from my eyes.

"I, uh. I flat a tire," I said, almost whispering.

He looked at my car which was parked beside me. "Do you have a spare?"

"No."

He squinted at me. I couldn't see his eyes properly because of the rain, but his dimples waved at me when he snickered.

Oh, my.

"I thought I'm living in the age of extreme female independence. Never thought I'll encounter a damsel in distress in 2015."

Did he just make fun of me?

"If you're going to mock me, just leave. I'm not asking for your help," I said bitterly. I admit, a spare tire is a must, but I wouldn't let this stranger treat me like an idiot.

No matter how hot he was right now.

He flashed a half smile. "I have a spare tire. Are you sure you don't need my help?"

I swallowed hard, thinking about my situation. My phone died minutes ago so I couldn't call Dirk. Not to mention it was almost midnight and there weren't any vehicle passing by.

"Of course you need me," he said, his smile broadening. "Please tell me you have the tools needed."

I shook my head. I cleaned my car this morning and I didn't put the toolbox back.

He let out a deep breath. He walked to his car, opened the trunk and went back with his toolbox and a spare tire.

He started to work. The rain seemed to never bother him, but I stood beside him to shelter him from the rain with my umbrella. He was already soaked. Even his hair which was tied in a bun was dripping.

His muscles tightened in every grip and twist of the wrench. his arms wrestled with the tire while I was just standing here, watching his every move.

I saw the other inks he had. I couldn't have a proper glance, but his left arm was undeniably covered with tattoos.

A final clang floated in the air and he was done.

He stood up, and that's when I realized how tall he was. My head couldn't even reach his chin.

"You're good to go," he said, holding the wrench and wiping the raindrops around his eyes.

"Thanks," I smiled.

"That's it?" he asked, arching a brow. "Just thanks?"

"Uh, how much should I pay you?"

He snickered and rubbed his chin. "I don't need your money. I need something else. If you know what I mean."

What the?

My mind started to race, along with my chest. It suddenly hit me how stupid I was to trust a complete stranger. I didn't even have second thoughts! What if he drags me to his car and rapes me?

What if he's planning to do it now?

His gentle laugh surfaced, defeating the sounds of the pattering rain. "I'm just kidding. Drive safely, the road is wet and slippery." He turned his back to leave but looked at me again. "And one more thing. Don't forget to bring a spare tire next time," he added, then gifted me with another smile before returning to his car.