"Brother, I only became a ghost recently, and I haven't harmed anyone," the ghost driver began, trying to plead his case as he drove.
"I've picked up many passengers, but mostly to chat and vent my frustrations," he continued. "I usually just drop them off..."
"I only wanted to give you a scare, nothing more."
The ghost driver first established his "innocence" and then tried to bond with Alex Carter, chatting away.
"Brother, how can you hit me so hard as a human?"
"Are you a disciple of some hidden sect on a journey?"
"I dabbled in fortune-telling, and the moment I saw you, I knew you weren't ordinary."
The ghost driver's survival instincts were impressive. Even Alex found it a bit much, his ears buzzing.
"Are you done yet?" Alex finally asked, his expression darkening.
"Yes, yes, all done..." The ghost driver nodded, silenced.
He recalled past passengers, all trembling in fear, careful not to anger him. Yet today, everything was turned upside down!
How did I end up with such a terrifying passenger?
"Are you secretly cursing me?" Alex's head appeared beside the ghost driver.
"Ghost!" The ghost driver jumped, losing control of the steering wheel as the hearse swerved wildly.
"Get a grip!" Alex grabbed the handle, slapped the driver, who quickly regained control, braking to stabilize the car.
"You're a ghost scared of ghosts? Really?" Alex chided.
The ghost driver felt a flood of grievances, nearly bursting into tears. People scaring ghosts—who'd ever heard of such a thing?
What did I do in a past life to deserve this?
The driver became so miserable he fell silent.
Alex, satisfied, took out his phone to catch up on his drama.
After about half an hour, the car entered the city, stopping in front of Alex's office.
"Big... brother, we're here." The ghost driver's voice wavered, knowing his fate hung in the balance.
"That was quick." Alex looked around, confirming he was home, and nodded approvingly.
Of course, it's fast! It's a hearse, after all! The ghost driver felt a brief swell of pride before panic set in again.
"No! I can't just sit here!" As Alex prepared to exit, the ghost driver shouted, "Wait a moment!"
Alex paused, his eyes narrowing.
"I'll get the door for you!" the driver declared, his tone bravely defiant, yet his actions were meek.
He hurried out, opened the passenger door, and even shielded Alex's head.
Alex sighed, feeling a twinge of regret at the thought of selling him.
But ghost trafficking is my business, Alex reminded himself. I can't get soft now!
Resolute, he stepped out of the car and said, "Okay, you can go."
"Phew~" The ghost driver exhaled in relief, bowing repeatedly. "Thank you, brother! Thank you!"
Finally free...
The driver turned to leave but froze.
In the rearview mirror, Alex discreetly reached behind him, pulling out a brick...
"..."
The ghost driver hesitated, then abruptly turned and knelt, "Brother! I've changed my mind!"
Alex quickly hid the brick, feigning nonchalance. "Oh? What did you change your mind about?"
"Brother! From the moment I saw you, I knew you were extraordinary!" the driver proclaimed. "You knew I was a ghost but didn't attack, instead testing my character. That's benevolence!"
"I attacked you, yet you spared me. That's righteousness!"
"Meeting such a benevolent and righteous person is an honor. I'm willing to serve you, brother! As your driver, please accept my loyalty!"
The ghost driver bowed deeply, his conviction almost convincing himself.
"A genius ghost indeed," Alex mused, suppressing a grin, and considered.
Despite the driver's shamelessness, his assessment was accurate. Plus, Alex didn't own a car!
And this was a hearse, with a ghost driver!
A perfect match.
Maybe I should keep him. After all, he wouldn't fetch much on the market.
Decision made, Alex cleared his throat, addressing the driver. "In that case, you can stay. I could use a truthful ghost like you."
"..."