You Shouldn't Have Come Here

by Jeneva Rose

“This creepy old gas station attendant a ways back . . . kind of chased after me. I didn’t even get to finish filling my tank because of him.” I twisted up my lips. “Well, shit. I’m sorry about that. You okay?” I nodded. “Yeah, I’m fine now. Just caught me by surprise.” “You don’t have to worry about any of that here. I’ll keep you safe, Grace,” Calvin said with a smile. I let out a small laugh and shook my head. “What’s so funny?” he asked, never letting his smile falter. “Oh, nothing. I just realized how I sounded, like some damsel in distress.” “I didn’t think that at all.” Calvin chuckled. “But let me help you with your bags and get you settled in.” He walked toward the back of the vehicle. “Oh, you don’t have to do that.” I didn’t really like people touching my stuff. “Nonsense.” He pressed the button below the license plate, popping the trunk. “Is this because of the whole damsel thing?” I teased. “No, Grace. I specialize in hospitality.” Hoisting both bags out of the car, he threw one over his shoulder and carried the other. “I’ll treat you so good, you won’t want to leave. That’s my motto,” Calvin said, widening his smile.