Page 3 of In Knots

They are on their bikes and revving their engines before I have time to make a decision.

Ryan flips up his visor, waving at me. “Nice to meet you, princess. Hope we’ll be seeing you again.” He winks at me as the other three glide out into the road, and then he’s sliding down his visor and following after them.

I watch them go, the sun catching on the mirrors and reflecting bright light back at me. Ryan lifts his hand in salute as they disappear around a bend in the road and under the shade of fully leafed trees.

Walking around the car, I go to inspect the new tyre, kicking it lightly with my foot. I don’t know why. I don’t think they were messing with me. It appears as if they really have changed it.

I swipe the back of my palm around my brow, curious at the fluttering in my stomach, wondering why those four men left me feeling all flustered and climb behind the wheel.

I’m probably still in a panic about the car, about getting caught. Everything is OK now, though. I can drive back home before my parents return, before anyone notices me gone, and arrange for the garage to replace the tyre on the sly.

I let out a slice of tension through my teeth and, adjusting the shade against the sun, go to switch on the engine.

It’s then I see it, a slip of white paper resting on my dashboard.

Call me, princess.

And a phone number scribbled underneath.

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