Page 29 of Wintertime Heat (Holiday 1)

“Stay back, Aaron,” I warn as I pop open the hood.

* * *

“You stay back as well,” Steven frowns. “That looks dangerous.”

* * *

I give him a scornful look, “I’ve been taking care of Gertha since I bought her. I know what I’m doing.”

* * *

I look for the source of the smoke, ignoring the annoyance on his face. Things seem a little out of tune, but nothing that a little visit to the mechanic wouldn’t fix.

* * *

However, when my eyes land on the essential gray part of the car engine, my heart sinks.

* * *

I groan, “The capacitor is fried.”

* * *

When Steven makes a small noise, I turn my head, glaring at him, “I’m sorry. Do you have something to say?”

* * *

He coughs, delicately, “Not at all. Why don’t we give you a ride back?”

* * *

I open my mouth to say I’d call a cab when I realize I have forgotten my wallet at home.

* * *

Sighing, I close the hood with an audible snap, “I would appreciate that.”

* * *

Steven’s car was a beautiful black jaguar, and I blink, “I thought your car was in the shop.”

* * *

His hand slip around my elbow as he steers me toward the passenger seat, “That was the other one.”

* * *

I let Aaron clamber into the backseat, all the while gaping at his father, “How many cars do you own?”

* * *

“Dad has a lot of cars!” Aaron pipes up. “Our garage is this big!”

* * *

I smile weakly at the way the boy tries to widen his arms to show me.

* * *

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