Fuel Is Low

"Helen, we have a problem." Kristen's dad explained, his voice carrying a hint of worry. Kristen and her mom both raised an eyebrow in his direction, expecting an explanation.

"The fuel light is on. I didn't notice until just now. Son of a bitch..." He trailed off. Suddenly Kristen's stomach growled, interrupting her father's rambling.

"How far to the nearest gas station?" Her dad questioned. Helen responded grimly with "An hour..."

He quickly pounded his fist on the steering wheel in frustration. Helen was quick to calm him down, and rubbed his shoulder. "Hey, Ian, its' OK. We can probably ask someone inside to give us a lift or some gas. I have to imagine someone around here could spare us enough gas to make it to town."

Slowly but surely, he took a few deep breaths. But a look to the backseat reminded him that another problem had been amplified by the situation.

"Helen, what are we supposed to do about her? I don't think they would be too happy if we brought a naked girl inside their restaurant, but the car can't stay in idle forever. We need all the gas we can get."

Helen glanced to the backseat, and rolled her eyes. "Oh, right. Maybe ask if they have something she can wear? I'm not leaving her in this car, if it can be helped.

Ian nodded his head, before stepping outside the car. He sprinted across the parking lot and through the front door of the diner, the door swinging behind him.