Page 82 of The Manny

“I’m happy you feel that way.” She tucked her card back in her wallet. “Glenwood is lucky to have a reputable repair shop. Before I found you, Sam’s Auto Repair across town was where I used to go. Every time I went in they charged me over two-hundred dollars. It didn’t seem to matter what they did, it was always expensive.”

I didn’t like bad-mouthing the competition, so I simply smiled. “Everyone’s pricing is different, but I’m sure happy to have your business.”

“See, you’re too nice. Trust me, Sam talks you down every chance he gets.” She shook her head. “Not everyone is honorable, Jack.”

Don’t I know it.

“I appreciate your business, Mrs. Garcia. Let me know if anything feels off when you drive home.”

“I will.” With a friendly wave, she left.

I tucked some credit card slips under the counter, and when I glanced up, Scott Taffet was strolling toward me. I smiled. “What brings you to my humble business?”

He sighed. “I’ve been eyeing a 1967 Mustang fastback across town. The price is too good to be true, and I wondered if you’d take a look at it before I put in an offer.”

“What are they asking?” I came around the counter.

“$12,000.”

“Good condition?”

“Looks like it, but that’s way too cheap. The lowest I’ve seen for one in good condition is $15,000. Makes me leery.”

“Sure, I’ll go check it over for you.” I smiled. “When?”

“Now?”

I laughed, rubbing the back of my neck. “Uh… I’m kind of swamped right now. Polly is on break and Brody is picking up parts. Not to mention I’ve got six cars stacked.”

His mouth drooped. “Damn. I thought sure you’d take care of me.”

“Um… if you could at least wait until Brody gets back?”

“When will that be?”

I glanced at my watch. “I’m guessing half an hour?”

He sighed, studying me. “I guess I have no choice.”

“There are other car guys in town.”

“Nobody I trust as much as you.” He shrugged. “Okay, I’ll wait. Can you keep me company in the waiting room?”

I laughed. “I’ll do you one better, let’s go to my office.”

“Sweet.” He looked pleased.

I led the way to my office, and once there, had him sit on the small sofa I had in there for late nights. “Coffee or something stronger?” I offered.

“Something stronger, please.” He eyed a stack of flyers on the side table. “You’re having a party?”

I grimaced. “It’s our five-year anniversary in a few weeks.”

He scowled. “Anniversary of what? Have you been holding out on me? Are you in a relationship?”

I laughed gruffly. “God no. It’s Jack’s Automotive five-year anniversary.”

“Oh.” He looked relieved. “You scared me. I thought you were officially off the market, and that broke my heart.”

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