ambivalent | hes

2

I clocked out at 6 pm. Amelia demanded that I stay past my shift to make up for being late today and all of the times before that. Which meant I missed the bus and had to walk home. I lived close by, but by foot it was a 25 minute hike. I put in my headphones and began the dreadful walk.

The sky was starting to turn dark, the threat of rain looming ahead. Great.

A drop of rain fell on my cheek with perfect timing. The sound of thunder cracking made me jump, and I started walking a little bit faster. I was 5 blocks away when it started to rain. It wasn't bad at first, but then it was. I was drenched in minutes.

I had began using my purse as a shield from the rain when I heard a car horn behind me. I turned to see a black car pull over to my side of the road.

I was slightly nervous as the stranger put their window down. I recognized the man as a customer I had served earlier this morning.

"Are you alright?" He asked.

"Yeah, just heading home." I stated bluntly.

"In the rain?" He asked, looking concerned.

"Unfortunately, yes."

"If it's not a bother, I could give you a ride. Do you live nearby?"

"No offense, but I really don't know you. I can walk."

"Alright, get home safely then. "

I bit my lip, shivering as I contemplated my choice.

"Wait," I said abruptly as he began putting his window up, "I'll take you up on the offer, as long as you promise you aren't going to murder me."

He chuckled. "I promise I won't murder you."

Without hesitation, I hurried to the passenger side and hopped in. I was thankful to be out of the cold, pelting rain and engulfed in warmth.

Harry reached into the back seat and retrieved a sweater, handing it to me. I pulled it on and then put on my seatbelt.

"I really appreciate this." I said, watching the rain drops pelt the passenger side window.

"It's no problem. I'd hope someone would do the same for me if I needed it." He replied.

I gave him my address, and he made a left turn.

"How was your shift?" He asked, probably to fill the silence that had settled upon us.

"It was fine... " I remembered how upset Amelia was with me.

"Just fine?" He raised an eyebrow.

"Despite my manager being on my ass all day, it was just another day at work." I shrugged.

He nodded as he pulled onto my street.

"It's the third house on the left." I informed him.

He pulled into the driveway, putting his car in park.

"Thank you again. For the ride, and for not murdering me." I said.

He smiled. "It was my pleasure."

"I just realized, we never introduced ourselves." I said. "I'm Lyla."

"It's nice to formally meet you, Lyla. I'm Harry." He stuck out his hand, and I shook it.  "If you're ever stranded again," He reached into his pocket, pulling out a business card, "Feel free to call me."

I gave him a thankful smile as I took it. "It's nice to meet you too, Harry. I'll keep that in mind."

I exited the car, slipping my bag over my shoulder as I said bye to him.

He drove off as I opened the door, stepping into the warm foyer.