I started working the front desk to earn my keep. The garage is loud, chaotic, and smells perpetually of gasoline—a far cry from the sanitized, silent penthouses of my past. And I love it. I organize his messy receipts, sweep the bays, and even help hand him tools under the hoods of cars. But my real test came on a sweltering Tuesday afternoon.

A customer stormed in, furious that his alternator repair was taking too long. He slammed his fist on the counter, towering over me, screaming insults. Every instinct in my body screamed to shrink, to apologize, to smooth things over. That was my designated role in life. The peacekeeper. The good, compliant girl.

I frantically glanced toward the open bays. Luke was leaning against a tall red toolbox. He held a heavy wrench, his knuckles white, but he didn't move to rescue me. He caught my eye and just gave a single, firm nod. Stand your ground.

My heart pounded against my ribs like a trapped bird. I pulled my shoulders back, stared straight into the angry man's flushed face, and let my voice ring out, steady and cold. "No. You will not speak to me that way in this shop."

The man blinked, stunned into silence, mumbled an awkward apology, and backed away. After he left, my legs went weak. Luke walked over slowly, a rare, breathtaking smirk playing on his lips. He reached out, his thumb gently swiping a smudge of black grease from my cheek. "Look at you," he murmured softly. The touch sent a wild spark straight down my spine. I was finding my voice, and I was dangerously close to losing my heart.

That smirk! Luke is officially falling for our messy, brave princess! 😭 Who else cheered when Claire finally stood up for herself? Drop a ❤️ to show how proud you are of her growth, and let us know if you think a kiss is finally coming! 💋