The day had started off fine, but by the time Tom wrapped up his last lecture, the skies had broken open, releasing a relentless downpour. He dashed to the parking lot, hoping to beat the worst of it.

Sliding into the driver's seat, soaked and breathless, he jammed the key into the ignition, only to be met with a series of sputters and mechanical groans. The car refused to start.

Frustration tightened in his chest as he slumped back in the seat, staring at the rain streaking down the windshield. He wasn’t going anywhere. Just as he was beginning to accept the idea of being stuck there for a while, a voice pierced through the sound of the storm, pulling him out of his thoughts.