RUNAWAY

/ 61 \

💄VERITY💄

While I settled into the car I waited for Mr. Mountain to put my suitcase in the trunk. After he sat in the driver's seat he turned towards me.

"My apologies for my weird greetings. I woke earlier than usual and did all the food prep for your welcome celebration. Not that I'm excusing my behavior, but I hope I didn't ruin your image of me."

Before responding I took note of how disappointed in himself he appeared. He'd gone from being Mr. Mountain to a sad golden retriever.

"You have nothing to apologize for Garr-en-." Can I call you Garr?"

"Sure."

"Your greeting was warm and comical. You didn't ruin the image I had of you, just changed it a little."

"What does that mean?"

"You may be a mountain, but you're cute."

"Thank you. I haven't been called cute since I was in elementary school."

"Aww, that's just criminal."

"Ughh.."

"Since you did so much for me, why not let me drive?"

"I couldn't let the guest drive. Plus I have to stop at the local bakery."

"How about this? Don't think of me as a guest but as your employee. Also, you can direct me the way to the bakery and clubhouse."

"Alright. But. A few minutes before the clubhouse you have to let me drive the rest of the way. Deal?"

"Deal."

We shook hands before stepping out of the car. In the driver's seat, I had to adjust everything. The seat, the seat belt height, the steering wheel, and the rearview mirror. Once I glanced over everything one more time I backed the SUV, and drove it towards the exit. As I drove down the highway, Herc leaned over toward the knob titled music.

"May I?"

"Have at it. It is your car."

"Is eighties rock okay?"

"I love bangin' it to eighties rock." I quickly turned my head and grinned.

"That's a relief. Axton isn't much of a fan. He's more into pop. Or rap.

"We'll have to find more opportunities to rock out together."

"I look forward to that." He beamed and I couldn't help smiling at his infectious joy.

💄💄

"We'll need to turn left at Barlow Street." Herc pointed out thirty minutes later.

"Copy."

"Thanks again for driving for me."

"No problem I enjoy driving. Though I mainly drive my motorcycle. It's actually nice to drive a vehicle now and then. I guess I'll be driving a car from now on with the Twins."