I Like You

Part One

Thud. Your boot thumped against the tire of a midnight black '67 Mustang. It wasn't like her to break down, but the smoke coming from the undercarriage was a definite sign that you weren't going any further on this old highway and kicking the tires sure wasn't going to get her running again, so you popped open the hood and took a quick look. It was apparent that you did not have what you needed to fix her up on the side of the road at the moment, especially not at 2:30 in the morning. Thankfully, the familiar buzz of a neon vacancy sign greeted you just a short way up the road and you were able to snag a room for yourself. Seeing as you weren't going to be able to grab anything from the McDonald's from in town, the vending machine seemed like the next best thing.

All the spare change you could gather jingling in your pockets, you sauntered out into the cool, winter air and set your sights on the vending machine. Turning the corner, you felt your shoulder collide with something hard, but before your lack of coordination landed you flat on your behind, a strong arm found its way around your waist. You looked up and all you saw was green. A bright, beautiful pair of soft green eyes, twitching themselves into a gaze of concern.
"Are you all right? I'm sorry I didn't see you there." That voice. So kind but so..husky. You nearly forgot how to speak.
"Y-yes." You cleared your throat and nodded affirmatively.
"Yes, I'm fine. I'm sorry, I should've been more careful." Your smile was sheepish at best. You only prayed he didn't notice it falter when he reclaimed his arm.
"Oh no, that was all me." He chuckled. "Looks like I took on one too many bags of Doritos." Kneeling down, he began to pick up the numerous bags, stuffing them into his jacket pockets. You couldn't help but giggle like an inane schoolgirl. His grin had that affect.

"Well, they are delicious. Can't have too many I suppose." You could feel that dumb, telling smile creeping onto your face as you watched the corners of his lips turn up in amusement.
"So, what's a pretty girl like you doing at a dump like this at this time of night?" He took a casual step closer.
"My car broke down just up the road. Cut my journey short a bit." His brow arched, intrigued.
"Yeah? How far? I could take a look if you'd like. I'm pretty good with cars." His smile seemed a bit proud, but honest. I couldn't help but return a grin.
"Thank you, but I know what's wrong. The seal on the coolant system leaked into the engine and it overheated. Unfortunately, I can't do a damn thing about it until I can get into town tomorrow to find a new seal, so here I am. Motel paradise for the evening." His brow furrowed, inquisitively. Somewhat surprised even.
"You know a thing or two about cars I take it?"
"Sure do." Your smile was genuine. Some of your best memories came to the forefront of your mind. Tinkering on your dad's car on Saturday afternoons, both of you singing along to whatever rock anthem came onto the old radio, until you had the engine tuned up just right.
"What do you drive?" The question broke your reverie and a playful, mischievous smile made it's way across your face.
"I'll tell you, on one condition. What's your name?" His chuckle coaxed subtle dimples in his cheeks.
"Dean. And yours?" He took another step closer and you could smell him. A gentle blend of leather and the faintest scent of motor oil. It was heavenly.
"(Y/N)." He nodded, as if giving his approval.
"I like that name. Always have." You could've sworn you were blushing, but if he noticed, he was enough of a gentleman not to give it away.
"Well, deal's a deal.'67 Mustang. She's in damn good shape too. Surprised she's down for the night, honestly." If he didn't look surprised enough before, he certainly did now.
"I'm sorry, did you say a '67 Mustang? No way." His chuckle was hearty, but not mean-spirited. "I gotta see it. I could take a look at it too. I keep spare parts in my car, just in case. Maybe I can find a seal that fits."
"Really? That would be great. Thank you." Your soft, grateful smile earned you one in return from Dean and you followed him to his car.

"Wow." You looked over the Impala, impressed. "She's beautiful. And in such good condition."
Dean's smile turned into more of a proud smirk, he loved this car. That was obvious.
"Yeah, I work on her whenever I can. We've been through hell and back together." He chuckled gently, as if laughing at something you wouldn't understand. You furrowed your brow and a curious smile played across your lips as you observed him. He shook his head, grinning as if he understood your inquisition.
"Long story." He opened up the passenger seat and closed the door after you before hopping in to the driver's side.
A very short while later, you arrived at your car and he whistled as he stepped out.
"Damn. She looks good." You giggled before you could respond.
"Thank you. I like to think I treat her well." He nodded in agreement and to your pleasant surprise, stripped off his jacket and his flannel button down, leaving him in just a form-fitting white t-shirt. It took some will power to keep your feet rooted and your jaw in it's proper place.
"Mind if I take a look?" His words almost surprised you and your immediate reaction was to clear your throat.
"Hmm? Oh yeah, no go ahead." You watched his smile shift into a shy, sideways grin as he popped open the hood.