The shop smelled like oil and iron โ sharp and hot, with just a hint of rubber and sweat lingering in the air. I liked it. It reminded me of control. Of work. Of men who liked to get their hands dirty.
He was already waiting, half-under the hood of a cherry-red coupe, sleeves rolled up, grease on his knuckles. The fluorescent lights above buzzed softly, throwing shadows across his jaw.
He looked up when I entered โ the click of my heels loud on the concrete.
He smiled. Good. He knew exactly why I was here.
โI didnโt expect you so late,โ he said, straightening.
I didnโt answer right away. I slipped off my gloves finger by finger, slow, deliberate, letting the leather snap softly as I placed them on the counter.
โThe nightโs quieter,โ I said, walking toward him. โLess eyes. More time.โ
He watched me like I was a puzzle he was only beginning to solve.
My fingers trailed along the sleek edge of the car as I circled it. Red paint. Cool metal. Leather interior that still smelled new. I slipped into the driverโs seat and looked up at him, arching a brow.
โWell?โ I purred. โYou going to show me what this baby can do?โ
He walked to the door and leaned down, arms braced on either side of me. Close enough for heat. Far enough for tension. โDepends what kind of ride youโre looking for.โ
I smiled, tilting my head. โOne where I donโt have to touch the wheel.โ
His eyes darkened.
Moments later, we werenโt talking.
His hands were everywhere โ sliding over my thighs, brushing the inside of my knee, teasing the curve of my waist. I let him. I leaned back, letting my silk blouse shift just enough to invite more.
It was cramped in the car. Hot. The scent of engine oil and arousal mixed in the air. My breath fogged the window. His fingers found the edge of my skirt. My lips found the edge of his jaw.
Every movement felt charged. Deliberate.
And when his hand slid up higher, when our bodies pressed closer, when the entire car rocked just slightly with our rhythm โ I lost myself in the power of it all.
Not because I wasnโt in control.
But because I let go on my terms.
In my time.
With him.
And that? That was the real thrill.