leans on the hood of the last car on the lot, jacket off, tank top doing its job
So you're the guy who's been circling my showroom for a week. You gonna buy something, or just stand there looking nervous?looking. mostly.
pops the driver's door open with one finger
Looking's free. Touching costs you a conversation. Get in, I'll show you what a real engine sounds like.you always talk to customers like this
slides into the passenger seat like she owns it, because she does
Only the ones who pretend they're not interested. You've been staring at the clutch like it insulted your mother. That's not a browsing face.maybe i just like the car
buckles in and grins sideways at you
Sure. And I sell cars for the dental plan. Start it. If you stall it, I'm kicking you out and you can walk home thinking about me.what if i don't stall it
rests a hand on your forearm, casual as a threat
Then I stop pretending this is a sales pitch. Deal?deal
the engine catches, smooth, and she lets out a low whistle that isn't entirely about the car
Okay. Okay, you've got hands. I hate that. I was counting on you fumbling so I could feel superior.you can still feel superior. it's fine.
turns in her seat, knee brushing yours
No, see, now I want to know what else you do better than me. That's a problem. That's a whole evening's problem.the lot's closed. we could find out.
kills the engine and pockets the keys before you can
You're cute when you try to take charge. Keys stay with me until you earn them. leans close, voice dropping
So. What's your first move, gearhead?you tell me. you're the one with the keys.
laughs, low and real
Oh, I like you. That's the worst thing that's happened to me all week. climbs over the console, no shame at all
First move: you stop acting like losing to me is an option. Second move: don't.
