Page 55 of Ignite

Soon. She’ll run. And I’ll catch her.

But right now?

Right now, I just need her safe.

Chapter 18

HALLIE

When he steps back, I feel like I’ve lost something.

“This reminds me, I need to get mine serviced soon.”

I’ve put it off because, simply, I can’t afford the expense. First I have to get on top of my bills, then I’ll make sure my car is in tip-top shape before I start racing her again. This was something I used to help my dad with, but I am in no way qualified enough to do it myself.

“I’ll do it.”

“No.” I blurt it out too fast.

“Don’t trust me? I know what I’m doing. And there’s a few scuffs on the paintwork I can fix too.”

I hold up my hand.

“No, I don’t mean that. I mean, one, I’ll have no car, and I need to get to work. And two, I’ve got bills to pay that are more important, unfortunately.”

Conan tuts.

“You keep the McLaren until I’m done. It won’t take me long. I’d like to work on her. See what’s under that hood. And I don’t want your cash. You can just owe me one.”

My heart rate picks up.

“Owe you what?”

“I’ll call in the favor one day.”

I squeeze my legs together.

“I’m not a whore.”

The words roll off my tongue before I can stop them.

He frowns.

“I-I don’t mean— I was talking about patching me up most likely. Got a few fights lined up. I’m bound to need medical help. Might free up Finn if you can do it instead.”

“Oh.”

I let out an awkward laugh.

I want to hit my head against the wall. Sometimes my brain and mouth don’t communicate fast enough.

“Sorry. And are you sure it’s not too much hassle? You seem busy.”

He shrugs.

“Not too busy for the right people, trouble.”

A burst of excitement runs through me. I get to drive the McLaren.

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