It's been a long and dreary day. Xavier gets out of his car once again. His hands are smeared with engine oil. There's a black line on his forehead from his hands. The white shirt he was wearing, is a crumpled, filthy mess. His jeans are still semi-decent. Luckily he has an extra shirt in the boot. His overnight bag is still there from the weekend.
For a 43 year-old, he looks good. His hair is now the famous salt-and-pepper colouring, kept short, -military style. He is lean, fit. His health is in mint condition and the fact that he this looks good, makes it even better.
He sighs, frustrated, annoyed. Why must the shit always happen when he is in a hurry? He looks up and down the road. There is nothing. No other cars in sight. He grabs his bag from the boot, locks up the car, puts on a fresh shirt and then takes to the road. There is still a good hour's drive. He'll be late for his meeting.
He checks his cell phone again. Still no network connection. He kicks at a stone in the road, and hears the rumbling engine of a truck slowing down behind him. He moved out of the road, and sees the woman pulling over. Should he be hopeful?
He runs towards the passenger side of the truck, as the woman leans over and opens the door. "Get in, darling" She purrs.
He climbs in, and smiles gratefully. "Hi, I'm Xavier. I just need a ride to the next town please. My damn car broke down." The frustration is clear in his voice, and he looks flustered.
"I'm Cassidy." Her voice sounds sweet and thick, music to his ears, "I saw your car back there. You'll die walking in this heat." She grins at him, her long black hair falling around her face in beautiful waves. Her sunglasses cover her eyes, but the crow's feet prove that she laughs often.