More than a friend

SMITH

Another glance at my two deflated tires and I felt increasingly, unbearably pathetic. Of all the days in the world, why did it have to be today, tonight?

I was already late for Carla's first day. Her shift started an hour ago. I should have been there already. But here I was, stuck with a deflated tire and no hope of fixing it yet.

Towing it down to the mechanic's workshop had been an inconvenience. But I did it.

Now, I've been waiting for the mechanic and he isn't here yet. I've called him over ten times. God knows he might be getting irritated by my incessant calling, but I have no fucking choice.

Carla needs me. I need to be with her. I just hope she's okay before I arrive. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if anything should happen to her.

"Excuse me, Sir." It was the young apprentice of the mechanic. He seemed a bit younger than I was. Or was he just a timid type who barely hit the gym? "Are you sure you don't want me fixing your car? It seems my boss is having a hard ti