Ryan blew out an exasperated breath. Alina’s car refused to start. He pressed the hood button, then opened the door and stepped out into the cold, ankle-deep water. His umbrella provided little protection with the wind whipping it about like a kite. Once again, he felt the chill midway to his knees. He pushed away the thought of ruined shoes and new dress pants, inside which the label read: DRY-CLEAN ONLY. His mental outlook flagged while he waded to the hood. Scrutiny of the engine told him nothing more than he already surmised. Dead battery. Alina wasn’t going to like this. She must have left her headlights on this morning. He slammed the hood, made his way back to the driver’s door, and retrieved her keys. He had serious doubts anyone would attempt to steal a car in this weather, especially one that needed a jump start. Assessing the situation, he saw no alternative but to ask Alina to steer the car while he pushed it to higher ground. A few more inches of water, and she’d be replacing the interior.
