You know what she wants, but you'll make her say it anyway

After quite some time, she stands a little straighter and seems to gather enough resolve to finally ask you.

"Would it be alright for you to give me a ride back down?" She asks, looking apprehensive as she knows how selfish she must sound.

"Hmn." You grunt softly, looking away from her and staring at yourself in the rear view mirror. You tap your fingers on top of the steering wheel, considering the request.

"Please," she says softly, "you're the only one who can help."

You stare her straight in the eye, and she flinches reflexively.

"You want me to delay my trip home." You start.

She nods.

"For a silly girl walking without direction."

She nods again, her cheeks reddening with shame.

"A girl I don't even know."

She hangs her head, dejected.

"A girl who might even be dangerous."

"No, sir!" She exclaims, "I won't be any trouble to you."

"In fact," you continue as if she never said anything, "I've half a mind to call the police and tell them there's a strange girl walking on my mountain."

"Please don't!" she cries, "They'll take me back!"

"Take you back where?"

"Mister," she says in between sobs, "I ran away from home."

"That's your adventure?" You pry, "You're a runaway girl."

"Yes sir," She affirms, "I don't want to go back. Please don't call the police, I-I'll just walk back down and get out of your way."

You look at her again, and her meekness sparks something primal in you.

"I can do something else for you," you tell her.