Red, white and you!

When Ellie brings her classic car in for a tune-up ahead of the July 4th parade, her handsome new mechanic sets off fireworks in her heart

- Maria Gorman

Ellie was thrilled to learn that her hometown was hosting an American Spirit Parade to celebrate 250 years of America. Organizers were looking for volunteers to join the parade.

Right away, she thought of her cherry-red 1964 Ford Mustang, a gift from her grandfather, sitting under a silver tarp in her garage. She decided to offer her American classic for the celebration.

The carefully preserved car, brought out only on special occasions, needed work. Nothing drastic, but after a three-year hibernation, it was time for a much-needed tuneup.

Ellie was disappointed to learn that her longtime, trusted mechanic had retired and that his son had taken over. Only after she insisted on speaking with Mr. Frank himself did she agree to let his son work on her car.

The next morning, Ellie arrived just as the garage door was lifting, revealing the familiar space inside. She was surprised to see Mr. Frank, who looked older than she remembered, waiting for her. He greeted her with his usual bear hug.

“You look great, Ellie,” he said with a smile, then turned to the car and let out a low whistle. “She sure is a beauty.”

“She is,” Ellie agreed, then froze as a younger, handsome man walked over to them. Dark gray coveralls did little to hide his clearly toned body. Car grease smeared on his face somehow enhanced his near-perfect features, and when their eyes met, a slow, sultry smile formed.