He observed the flaxen vehicle whizzing past, his brown orbs twinkling in the dim stadium light. What was her name again? Cruz Ramirez, yes, he remembered. The 'rookie sensation', they called her. He had never seen her except on television, until now.
She was quite the racer, though he knew that he could probably beat her bumper any day. It was one reason Dodge Chargers were so well known, and he prided himself on his speed. He wasn't vain, no. That was his archenemy's job. Jackson Storm had the ego, the charm, and the quiet confidence he would never have. But that was fine by him—he was here for a reason, and it wasn't to beat the cocky Next-Gen.
It was the last lap now, and Cruz was struggling to keep the lead. Storm was gritting his teeth, pewter irises glinting with fierce determination, a slight smirk on his lips as he stayed behind, tailgating Cruz. It was only when the finish line was a meter away that he streaked past, leaving a certain daffodil car behind. Interestingly, he saw guilt reflect in Storm's eyes, but it was gone in an instant.
Cruz Ramirez shot a glare at a smug Jackson Storm before, panting, driving up to Lightning McQueen. He watched her break down for a few moments before pulling her aside and turning around—he loved Cruz as if she was his daughter, but he wanted to avoid paparazzi questions.
"Hello," he said as smoothly as possible. Lightning seemed shocked for a second before regaining his posture. After returning the greeting, Lightning briskly asked to leave. It was too early for that, though. He blocked Lightning several times before the veteran finally got the idea to introduce himself.
"I apologize," Lightning said with a tight smile, "I might've forgotten to introduce myself. I am Lightning McQueen, and this is Cruz Ramirez."
"I know," he said. "I've been watching you."
"Who are you, anyway?" asked Lightning with a slight frown.
"The name's Ace, Justin Ace."
Yep, that's right! My OC is FINALLY in the Cars universe! And as my favorite car, the Dodge Charger. Oh, before I go, as per government regulations when it comes to mentioning other brands in your content...
I'M NOT SPONSORED BY DODGE OR ITS AFFILIATES.