The sound of my car refusing to start is officially the worst sound in the world.
I twist the key again.
Click. Click. Sputter.
Nothing.
I let out a frustrated groan, smacking my hands against the steering wheel like that's somehow going to help.
"Come on," I mutter through gritted teeth. "Just work for once in your miserable existence."
It's late, I'm exhausted, and this is the last thing I need. My car had been acting up all day, but I figured if anything went wrong, Ethan would be able to pick me up.
But Ethan is not answering his phone.
I grab my phone and try calling him again. Straight to voicemail.
"Seriously?" I groan. "You have one job, Walker."
I try a few more numbersâmy mom, a friendâbut no luck. I'm officially stranded.
I hesitate for a second before scrolling past a name I really don't want to call.
Jaxon Walker.
I stare at it.
Nope. Not happening.
I'd rather walk home.
...Okay, maybe not. It's freezing, and hypothermia isn't exactly on my to-do list.
I groan before giving in, hitting dial before I can second-guess myself.
It rings twice before he picks up.
"Well, well," Jaxon's voice is amused. "Didn't expect to hear from you so soon, Carter. Miss me already?"
I groan. "Don't flatter yourself."
I hear a chuckle on the other end. "Alright, what's up?"
I exhale sharply, resting my forehead against the steering wheel. "My car won't start, and Ethan is absolutely useless. Can you just... come get me?"
Jaxon is silent for half a second.
Then, "Send me your location. I'm on my way."
I blink. "Waitâjust like that?"
"Yeah. Why?"
I hesitate. "I don't know. I just figured you'd make a bigger deal about it."
His voice is lighter this time. "Oh, don't worry, Carter. I plan to fully enjoy this moment when I see you."
I groan. "Just hurry up."
---
Fifteen minutes later, Jaxon's truck pulls up next to my dead car.
He steps out, looking far too smug for my liking.
"Carter," he greets, leaning against his truck like this is the most amusing thing to ever happen. "Fancy seeing you here."
I cross my arms. "Just open the door."
He chuckles but obliges, unlocking the truck as I climb into the passenger seat.
I slam the door shut, rubbing my hands together for warmth.
Jaxon slides into the driver's seat, starting the engine with a low rumble.
For a moment, we drive in silence.
Then, he glances at me. "So... what do I get in return for this heroic rescue?"
I scoff. "My eternal suffering isn't enough?"
Jaxon smirks. "Tempting. But I was thinking something more along the lines of a favor."
I narrow my eyes. "What kind of favor?"
"Haven't decided yet. But don't worry, CarterâI'll think of something good."
I exhale, shaking my head. Why do I feel like I just made a deal with the devil?
Jaxon's smirk widens as he shifts gears smoothly. "If you think the devil drives a hard bargain, wait until you see what I come up with."
I let out a dramatic groan, sinking lower into my seat. "Great. If you could send over the contract, I'd like to get a head start on finding the loopholes."
Jaxon chuckles, eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, no need for a contract. You've already sealed the deal by getting in the car."
His smirk deepens. "You're welcome to look, Carter, but don't be disappointed when you come up empty. I craft my deals like I play basketballâ flawless and unbeatable."
I cross my arms, muttering under my breath. "One day, I'm going to regret this."
Jaxon winks. "If you haven't already, I'm not doing my job right."