Sex Appeal

“I’m outside the sh-shop. I’ve already locked it up for the night…. Brent?”

“I’m trying to figure out how long it’ll take me to get to you. I’m still new to the area, remember.”

“You don’t have to—”

“Yes I do.” She heard the smile in his voice. “Get in your car and lock the doors. I’ll be there as quick as I can.”

“I could call a cab.”

“I won’t argue with you, Shadow. Do as I told you and I’ll be there in about five minutes.”

She stared at the phone, appalled by his preemptory gall. She was more than ready to tell him what she thought, despite the bitter cold, when the phone went dead.

She returned the receiver to its cradle. Five minutes? Only if he sped. More like ten, probably. Bracing herself for the blast of bone-chilling cold, Shadow left the dubious comfort of the phone booth and hurried back to her car. She immediately locked herself inside—which she would have done with or without his instruction.

It was only about four minutes later when she saw the man approaching. But it wasn’t Brent; she was certain of that. He wasn’t nearly tall enough, didn’t have Brent’s long-legged, purposeful stride. The lighting at this section of the lot was dim, not quite reaching into the corner where she’d parked. Shadow stared, wide-eyed, as a face came into view.

The stocking cap pulled over his forehead and the scarf around his neck concealed his features until he stood directly in front of her window. He gave a broad smile and motioned for her to roll down the window.

With immense relief, Shadow recognized him.

“Hi,” she called through the window.

He leaned against her door, propped his arms on the window frame and stared in at her. “You need some help?”

She shook her head. “No, everything’s fine.”

Again, he motioned for her to roll down the window.

The lie came easily to her lips. “I can’t,” she called loudly. “It’s broken.”

He frowned then, but said, “Open your door. I’ll see if I can fix your car.”

Again she lied. “There’s nothing wrong with it. I’m just waiting for someone.”

He seemed surprised by her answer. He straightened, stalked two steps away from the car, but quickly returned. There was a distinct scowl on his features now. “Open the door,” he said again, and added, “I need to talk to you about the contest.”