I'm not sure what I'm doing right now. Oh wait, I think I do. I'm being reckless and stupid and going against everything I've learned as a surrogate daughter of police chief Scorpio. But, Lord, I just wanted to get out of that rain.
So badly that I'm now sitting in the car of the possibly crazy man who almost mowed me down while I was crossing, legally mind you, at a crosswalk. But it's so warm and dry that I don't think I'd budge even if he started singing show tunes while simultaneously waving a gun in my face.
"Why aren't you wearing a jacket?" That's an odd thing to say. Especially in that accusatory tone. I mean, who just nearly killed whom here?
"I left it at home." My voice comes out strong and confident, despite the childish content of my words. I'm pleasantly surprised to find that that's how I feel as well. This place is having a good affect on me already.
"Well, next time don't." I stare at him incredulously. Is he giving me a lecture? Who is this person? His style of driving certainly doesn't allow for that sanctimonious tone. I feel like now is the perfect time to say something clever and cutting, but then think better of it. Small steps, Maxie. "I'll drive you home." He starts the car. "Where do you live?"
"The Pine Valley Inn." I saw it in the brochure I was reading on the bus. Sure, it seemed a little pricey, but for some reason I don't think I could bring myself to stay at one of those sleazy rattraps. Maxie Jones had developed higher standards since relocating to Pine Valley.
Now it's his turn to stare.
"You live at the Inn? Well, I guess we have something else in common, besides our mutual love for rainy weather." All right then. Maybe this guy was a little off center. But he was the only thing standing between me and the ongoing downpour outside, so I plaster I smile on my face.
"Well, that's convenient. I'm Maxie, by the way." I instantly regret what I say as I wait for the laughter that usually accompanies my name. I guess he's a little too old for that. Regardless, I decide to introduce myself as Maria from now on.
"David Hayward." For some reason his name sounds familiar, although I have no idea why it would. I've certainly never seen this man before in my life. I'd probably remember. He's pretty hot. "Nice to meet you, David." He grunts something in return and I sigh and stare out the window, even though I can't see a thing.
How metaphorical.