Chapter 3

CHAPTER THREE

LIAM

I’d driven these backroads so many times I could do it blindfolded. As I pulled up to where she was stranded, I saw her standing there—frustration written all over her face, but even that couldn’t dull the way she was soaking in the view around her. That’s how North Carolina gets you. Whether you’re ready or not, it’s always got something to say. With her camera in her hands, she was capturing the aesthetics of the mountain; however, some things, like this, were only believable in person. Sure, she could capture the beauty, but it’s much more vibrant in person.

When I pulled up, I heard the photo snap before she turned to face me. The photographer was stressed by her situation. Her makeup was smeared all over her face, and her clothes were muddy—did she fall?

“Hello, my name is Liam. I’m guessing you’re Mia?” I introduced myself. She stared at me intently.

“I am. I guess you’re the mysterious mortician and mechanic?” Her voice gave no sense of her joking around.

“Mechanic, yes. I’m not a mortician, though.” I laughed. She was not amused.

“So, how do we fix my car? I’m on my way to the other side of the state. This was not part of my agenda.” She snaps. Note to self: she is not a joker. She's a frigid bitch and has no sense of humor.

“I'll load you up on my trailer and bring you back to my shop.” I paused, waiting to see if she had a snooty response. “I have a cabin you can clean up and get some rest. I should have you ready within the week, but I make no promises.”

“So, essentially, you’re taking me and Little Bertha to your shop? I’ll be imprisoned in your cabin while you wait for parts that will never come in, but with the pretense of two weeks, right?” Was she insinuating I was going to kidnap her? That was hilarious.

“No, Mia. I will bring you and your car, Little Bertha, to my shop and allow you to come and go as you please. I have several cars you can use while I fix yours. Once your car is repaired and road-worthy, you can enjoy the rest of your time in North Carolina. You can use the cabin–at no extra charge–while your car is being worked on. I’ll check for additional issues and make sure everything is good. There will be one flat rate of $400 for the potential issues, and then we will discuss any additional issues.” I explained, matching her flat tone.

“Okay. I just didn’t want to agree to be your little closet slave while stuck on your property.” She laughed for the first time. “Sorry if I seem bitter, I just escaped a shitty relationship, and I have a project that is due by the end of next month. This wasn’t on my itinerary.” I felt the pain that was radiating from her eyes. Whatever she was hiding was evidently keeping her down.

“While a closet slave sounds amazing, I’d rather not have a woman. I’ve had my fair share of relationships and rather stay single. You’re welcome to stay as long as needed, though.” I said, hoping to lighten up the mood.

“Thanks for the offer. I just got out of a bad relationship, and I’d rather not jump into anything to hasty. If I have to stay with you while you fix my car, that’s one thing. Anything more than that is too much.” She said quickly.

“You’ll be staying in the cabin. I live in the attic of my shop.” I corrected her.

“Even better. Shall we?” She grabbed her purse and handed me the keys to her car.