The mechanic took a drag on his cigarette. “If there’s a problem, I can give you a ride, sweet thing. It ain’t far.” There was a hint of seediness to his tone that instantly pricked the fine hairs on the back of Gabe’s neck.

The girl gave an immediate shake of her head. “I’m… No. Thanks, but no. I’ve, uh, got to make a call.”

She stepped out from underneath the awning into the light rain, crossing the parking lot as she lifted her phone to her ear. With her free hand, she tugged the hood of her windbreaker over her head. A strong gust of wind blew the rain at an angle, and she tucked her shoulders high as if attempting to create a wind block. She probably didn’t want to get in Gabe’s truck any more than she wanted a ride with the sleazy guy who was clearly trying to pick her up.

Gabe looked from the crates to the mechanic, who was eyeing him like a bee who’d just interrupted his picnic. He could hear Yun the same as if she were still on the phone with him, telling him not to be an ass. Didn’t it matter that he had his reasons? Aside from Yun and some of his immediate family members, women weren’t in his life by design.

But leaving this one stranded wasn’t going to sit right, and he knew it. He jogged into the parking lot after the girl. So much for being resolute. “Hey, lady, I’ll give you a ride.” He stopped five feet from her. “To New Madrid.”

She turned around and looked from him to the mechanic, a frown turning down her lips. “Hold on a sec,” she said to whoever was on the other end of her call. She sucked in one side of her cheek and shot a glance toward his truck. Relief seemed to flood into her features at the sight of Samson, who was standing in the driver’s seat, watching them from the window with an easy pant curling his mouth into a smile.

She met Gabe’s gaze again. “You aren’t involved in the rescue?” she asked as if trying to make sense of what he was doing here.

“I’m not a driver, but I am headed down to help.”

She was quiet for a few seconds before she nodded. “Okay.” She lifted her phone again. “Hey, I’ve got a ride. We’re back to the original plan. I’ll see you down in New Madrid tonight.” She turned away and dropped her voice, but Gabe could just make out her words. “No, not him. The other one. It’s fine.” A pause. “He’s got a dog. It’s fine. I’ll text you.”