Lost a mechanic (long post)

[TahoeDirtGirl]

Fuji, please do something about it.

I had something similar happen when I went car shopping in Feb. I knew something was up when the sales guy I talked to said I sounded beautiful on the phone. I should of just went somewhere else. Duh.

But no, I wanted this jeep so bad, I went to the dealership at night (strike one) and went on a test drive alone with him (strike two) where he grabbed me and tried to kiss me (strike three). I promptly spun the jeep out and went back to the dealership. It could have been worse. I just wanted out of there. Yes, I was embarrassed, I have no idea why but that quickly turned to anger. Here I was, all alone on the east coast, this guy has my address, knows where I live, knows everything because I filled out my info before test driving. So I left.

The next evening, I came back. I did bring a male with me and had him stand off to the side. Little did anyone know, it was my bike mechanic. I went to the salesmanager and told him what happened. I wanted the sales guy to know that I wasn't alone. He wasn't a part of conversation, he was just there. He didn't hear any of the conversation, just outside displayed nicely in the big plate glass.

The guy got fired. End of story. They were very apologetic in fact, very surprisingly apologetic. Which makes me think this wasn't his first complaint.

The reason I went back? All night I kept thinking, what if he did that to another woman and didn't take no for an answer...what if she was me but 20 years old? I have to tell you ladies, in my 20s I was not this bold. I learned by being tested, and I just kept thinking, if that happened to someone's daughter or sister, I would by very mad.

The reason I brought the bike mechanic? I wasn't scared, but I wanted to make sure if this guy was a wingnut that I did have someone in my corner if something happened to me. I didn't want to be followed, or harassed.

So Fuji, do what you think is right, but just make sure you do it how your gut tells you. BF in the car, right next to you, whatever...listen to that instinct that we were given and use it...sometimes we all need a little help and there is no shame in that. I would say that having him next to me would be unnerving for me...

[Skierchickie]

How creepy! And scary. An infuriating. I wouldn't want to go back there, either. His boss needs to know, though. Your instincts were definitely right about this guy - good job keeping yourself safe.

I don't know what the "right" response is, or whether the BF should be with you. Moral support is a wonderful thing, though. Maybe he could go with you, but wait in the car while you talk to the manager? He doesn't have to be involved - just there to give you "attagirls" when it's over. Personally, I don't deal well with confrontation, and would be wanting it all to go away. But would that help you? Or his next target? Or his employer? Talking to the manager doesn't require confrontation, anyway.

Innocent puppy, or sinister stalker - either way he needs a severe reprimand - don't feel sorry for him. His poor family, yes.

No does mean no - whatever your tone of voice.

Tahoe - wow! How horrible!

[Irulan]

THD, did they make you a good deal on the jeep? They should have.

[Fujichants]

Thank you for all the advice. I am going by the store tomorrow to speak with the manager. I know the mechanic will be at Interbike so I am happy I don't have to run into him when I go into the store.

And yes...I need to start learning to take care of my own bike! I am just so afraid i'll end up breaking something

[TahoeDirtGirl]

THD, did they make you a good deal on the jeep? They should have.

You know Irulan, the universe works her mysterious magic.

I just wanted out of that place as soon as possible. I was so turned off by it I just cooled my heels and did my searching online for the perfect jeep.

I was going to go back but found out...a month after all of this, they had..CLOSED! So that to me was a big sign.

I bought it in RI and got a killer deal. Now if I could just get the stupid nav and radio to work right. I'm on my third system!

Sorry to hijack, thinking of ya Fuji!

[Iris616]

Fujichants-Good luck today. Let us know how the conversation with the manager goes.
Sending "be strong" thoughts your way.

[sundial]

Kali and Niki, my german shepherds, send their spirit of protection so that you'll have all the courage you need.

[Becky]

That's what you should take with you to see the manager- a German Shepherd! Now there's some back-up!

Seriously though, good luck and be strong. I know that you'll do fine!