He looked at me and then slowly moved his gaze to the passenger door. At that moment I understood and shook my head quickly and grimly.

Absolutely not!

I didn't need any help from him.

He smiled amusedly, then walked to the driver's side and got in. As the engine began to hum, I said goodbye to Mona and Tara and promised to text them the answers to their math homework later.

I waved to them briefly as they turned around and strolled back to their cars, chattering excitedly.

Meanwhile, I noticed the entire parking lot watching me.

To escape the curious glances, I quickly opened the passenger door and...