Part 4-A SINISTER PLAN
The High Tides Inn was an exclusive, secluded waterfront inn just to the north of Raytona's city limits. It was an old plantation style building brimming with old South genteel elegance, which catered to the very wealthy who vacationed in the resort town. The proprietor also prided himself on his reputation and in as such, he was the very soul of discretion when it came to the privacy of his guests. This made his inn an ideal place for illicit affairs and shady deals all under the guise of respectability as long as the price was right.
Phil Pistone carried his matched alligator luggage and walked arrogantly to the desk where he rang the bell impatiently. "Avante! Anybody! Come on out here, now!"
A haughty looking middle-aged man with sharp features came out of an office and looked over his glasses disdainfully. "May I help you?" he inquired with a hint of ice.
"Yes, I'd like a room. Preferably one with a view," Pistone commanded.
The man sniffed, "I doubt you can afford to lodge here. We're quite exclusive and--" His next words were cut off as he viewed the large wad of money Pistone casually took out of his jacket pocket. "You did say a room with a view, didn't you sir?" he purred obsequiously.
Pistone chuckled snidely at the way the snobbish man changed his tune. It never failed, just the sight of cold, hard, cash was enough to melt any human iceberg whether it was a ice-princess beauty queen or a snooty innkeeper. The latter summoned a bellboy to retrieve Pistone's luggage.
"Take Mr. Pistone to room 209," the innkeeper ordered as the bellboy picked up the bags.
As Pistone and the steward passed the lobby area, a man with a newspaper surreptitiously watched them go by. He was especially interested in the tall Italian racer who was in the process of following the bellhop up the sweeping staircase. Tossing the paper aside, he jumped to his feet and laid his hand on Pistone's shoulder.
"Mr. Pistone?"
Pistone whirled around and skewered the man with a glare. "Si. And what do you want?"
The mysterious man smiled. "I understand that you are in need of a ride."
Pistone sneered, "Good news she travels fast, uh? So what?"
"My name is Fixer and my partner Mr. Wiley would like to speak to you. Do you have a minute?" Fixer asked politely.
Pistone was about to refuse when he remembered that Wiley was the millionaire who owned the Alpha Racing Team. His eyes lit up in interest. "I may. Where is he?"
"Up in his suite. May I escort you there?"
Pistone smiled, "Lead the way."
The two men climbed the curving grand staircase and Fixer led Pistone to a suite of rooms that were to the right of the stairs. Fixer knocked on the carved oak door and opened the door to let both himself and Pistone in.
A shadowy figure stood silhouetted against the tropical sunlight streaming in through the window and turned to face them. A man, late fifties, in a dark suit contrasting with the pastel décor of the suite set an imposing figure as he regarded the two men.
"Well, well, Mr. Pistone. I'm pleased by the fortuitous circumstances that allowed our paths to cross. Please make yourself at home," Wiley said cordially.
Pistone took a wary seat. "Who are you?" he asked imperiously.
"Forgive my lapse in manners. My name is Wiley. It's a pleasure to meet a man of such great talent."
Pistone was not impressed. "I was told by your partner Wiley, that you wish to speak to me. So let's end all this other foolishness and get to the point."
Wiley smiled blandly. It seemed that the reports of this young man's arrogance were not contrived but he was unfazed. "I have a proposition for you."
"Yes?"
"I understand that your position with Cannoli Racing has been terminated?" Wiley asked softly.
Pistone's eyes narrowed at the reminder. "That is correct," he replied coldly.
"So you are available to drive for my team?"
Pistone smiled a slow smile that did not reach his eyes. "Ifa the price is right."
Wiley reached to his side and brought out a large black briefcase. He placed it on the coffee table beside Pistone, dialed a combination and the case sprang open, revealing bundles of stacked currency. He withdrew a stack and tossed it toward the Italian racer.
"That should serve as a down payment. So what do you say?"
Pistone gaped at the stack as he thumbed through the bills. "All this to drive for the Alpha Team?"
Wiley smiled grimly. "There is another task I wish you to do. Do you know a lovely young lady by the name of Trixie Shimura?"
Pistone's wariness returned. "I believe she's the spotter for the Go Team. And she's the girlfriend of their driver, Speed Racer." His eyes glittered as he thought of Speed and a burning hatred filled him.
Wiley nodded. "I want you to dispose of Miss Shimura," he commanded quietly.
Pistone felt icy fingers of dread clutch at his spine. As much as he had wanted revenge on Speed, murder was definitely not his style. He handed back the stack of bills.
"Grazie, but I'ma afraid that I'm not interested. I don't want to go to jail so mi scusi." He made to get up but Fixer and another man both forcefully pushed him back down.
Wiley chuckled and Pistone felt as if Satan himself was there in the midst. "You won't, not if you handle it in the proper manner. Accidents do happen you know."
Pistone stared at the man incredulously then stared at the enormous pile of money before him. It beckoned and taunted him, like a siren song and then the added bonus of exacting the most excruciating revenge to Speed, to take away the person that meant the world to him sealed his decision. He smiled slowly as he cast his lot.
"You got a deal."
Wiley smiled a pleased smile. "Splendid. Welcome aboard." He offered his hand to shake and Pistone took it, his deal with the devil complete.
After Pistone left, Wiley picked up the phone and dialed a number. He waited until the line answered. "I need to meet with you about what we spoke of last night. Yes, I did and now I want you to do your part to make sure Speed Racer doesn't interfere with my plans. And remember, I'm paying you well. Yes, I will. Thank you." He hung up the receiver with a smug expression.
At the Raytona Speed Oval driver's area where all the racing teams had their coaches and trailers, Speed stepped out of his and strode over to the one Trixie was housed in. He knocked on the door.
"Come in," Trixie's voice called out.
Speed opened the door and walked in. "Hiya, Trix. You disappeared since practice and we had a date. What are ya doin', homework?"
She was seated at the table and had a map and legal pad before her. She was making notes as she studied the map. She glanced up at him briefly then turned back to her task. "Yep. Just getting prepared for the race," she said shortly.
"Ah, I see. Why don't you take a break and go for a ride with me? Sparky fixed up the Mach 5 after the crash and she's good to go. So how about it?"
"I'm busy."
"Yeah, but all work and no play," Speed coaxed as he took a seat right next to her and reached his hand to brush a stray curl from her eyes. But he was dismayed when she moved her head away and scooted away from him, closer to the wall.
"Hey, what gives. You mad at me?" he asked, puzzled. "What'd I do now?"
Trixie sighed as she pushed the pad and pen away and turned to face him. "Speed, can I ask you a question?"
"Sure, shoot." He smiled affectionately at her.
Her eyes bored into his. "Why did you have to file that formal complaint? It really wasn't necessary IRC had already fined Pistone and the Cannoli Team. So why did you?"
Speed's smile faded and he got to his feet as he became somewhat belligerent. "So you're gonna give me grief about it too, huh?" he said acerbically. "You saw what that reptile did to me!"
Trixie got to her feet and right into Speed's face. "Yes, Speed I did. But I think that you should've just let IRC handle the incident and let it go."
Speed folded his arms across his chest obstinately and his face was set in a stubborn scowl. "Save the lecture. Pops reamed me out about the whole thing before. But I would've expected you at least to be on my side, Trixie."
She reached and brushed his hair from his eyes. "Oh Speed, I am on your side. I just hope that what you did doesn't come back to haunt you. These things have a way of coming home to roost," she said sagely.
Speed's expression softened. He took her hand in both of his and kissed it. "Stop worrying, honey. I had to do it or Pistone will just think that he can get away with being a dirty racer. Rules are rules and we all have to follow them."
"Are you sure that's the only reason, Speed?"
"What'd you mean?"
Trixie sighed, "Aren't you just a little vindictive 'cause he was talking to me the other night?"
Speed scowled again as Trixie scored a direct hit. He remembered Pistone asking him where she was before the practice run and how it had infuriated him. But he partially denied it, saying, "That certainly didn't endear him to me. But reporting him had nothing to do with that, what he did to me was illegal to race rules." He continued insisting, "Racing like that could get someone hurt."
Trixie looked unconvinced so Speed changed tact. He slid his arms around her, pulled her against him and gazed into her sea green orbs with his own ocean blue ones. "Listen, I have a great idea. Why don't we just put everyone and everything aside for the moment and concentrate on us?" He buried his face in the hollow of her neck and nuzzled her earlobe, sending a delicious thrill through her senses.
"Speed," she protested weakly.
"Shhh," he whispered, his mouth tracing a fiery path along her shoulder and neck. She sighed contentedly and surrendered to his tender insistent passion.
They were interrupted but a strident seven-year-old summons as Spritle's voice sounded from outside, "Speedy! Trixie!"
Speed groaned in annoyance as he broke away from his girlfriend, "I need to put a muzzle on that kid. He's got the worst timing."
There was a constant banging on the trailer door. "Trixie? Is Speedy in there with you?"
Trixie giggled and said resignedly, "We'd better let him in."
"Do we have to?" Speed pseudo-whined like a little boy.
Trixie threw him a look then opened the door to let the Racer family baby with his ever-present monkey pal in.
"Hi Trixie! Hi Speedy! Whatcha guys doin'? It's a great day to go to the beach, so let's go, huh?"
Speed and Trixie exchanged glances. Then Speed spoke up, "Listen Spritle, Trixie and me have some work to do before the race. So you and Chim Chim go play, okay?"
"Yeah, sure you both just want to be alone and get all mushy. Yecch!" Spritle wrinkled his nose in distate and Chim Chim mimicked his buddy.
With that remark, Speed's frustration had reached its limit. "Yeah, well if you hate it so much how come every time me and Trixie go out on a ride, you stow away in my trunk, huh?" he snapped his patience thin. "I can't even take my girl for a ride to be alone with her without you tagging along, spying on me. You're the original third wheel."
"Speed," Trixie pleaded as Spritle lowered his head in shame and tears began to flow.
He brushed tears away impatiently. "I-I'm sorry I bothered you." He and Chim Chim scurried to the door.
Trixie threw a reproachful glare at Speed as she went out after the boy. "Hey Spritle, wait up. Speed didn't mean what he said. Honest," she gently reassured him as she knelt down and grasped his small shoulders.
"B-but h-he was so mean, Trixie. I-I don't mean to be a pest, I just like being with you guys so much," Spritle wailed, his tears flowing in earnest as he buried his head in her shoulder, sobbing. Chim Chim patted his back to comfort him.
Speed sighed as he heard Spritle's anguish and he became filled with self- loathing. He exited Trixie's trailer and walked hesitantly over to where his kid brother and girlfriend were huddled and knelt beside them.
"Gee, Spritle, I'm sorry I made you cry. I didn't mean what I said, I was just sore. Will ya forgive me?" Speed asked contritely as he put his hand on his brother's shoulder.
Spritle looked up from Trixie's shoulder sniffling, "I-I forgive you, Speedy." He pulled away and launched himself in his brother's arms. Looking up into his brother's face he asked hopefully, "C-could we go to the beach, Speedy?"
Speed looked at Trixie sighed and shrugged. "Okay, Spritle. Go over to the folks' suite and get your suit on."
"Yea! Groovy!" Spritle crowed happily. He turned to the chimp, "C'mon Chim Chim. We're going to the beach." He took off like a shot, with Chim Chim right behind.
Speed got to his feet and helped Trixie up. "Well, that takes care of the rest of the day," he said in resignation. "What is it they say about the best laid plans?"
Trixie patted his shoulder comfortingly. "Cheer up, it'll be fun."
"Ya think?" Speed said glumly. "Seriously, baby, I wanted to spend the day with you."
"Well, when we come back from taking Spritle to the beach, we can do something," she promised with a twinkle in her eyes.
Speed brightened, "Yeah, how about dinner tonight and then maybe some dancing. Or whatever you want, I know some groovy out of the way places around here."
"Out of the way?"
"Yeah, places that I know we won't be bothered. I found them when I came out here one year for Spring Break. We can have privacy and have a good time at the same time. So how about it, I want to make up for what happened at the press party," Speed said persuasively.
Trixie grinned, "Okay. You got yourself a date." She reached over and kissed him then said, "We'd better get a move on, Spritle will be here any minute."
"Yeah, don't remind me."
They split up and went into their respective trailers to change into bathing suits.
A soft sea breeze was wafting in from the shore that evening at sunset as Speed and Trixie rode the Mach 5 through town, the gentle wind swirling their hair as they tooled along. Speed had the radio on and some Four Tops Motown was drifting up from his speakers and they sat close as usual, shoulder to shoulder.
Speed pulled into a palm tree lined driveway that led to a beachfront bungalow which had a large sign that read Kahuna's Hut. He drove into a parking place and cut the motor.
Trixie glanced around and noticed that there were few cars parked in the lot. "Speed, how'd you find this place? There's hardly anyone here."
Speed grinned, "I found it when I was here last year. The food's great and the atmosphere's really groovy. Kind of like a beach bum's hut like in all those Gidget flicks." He got out of the car and came over to her side to help her out. "C'mon."
They made their way into the place and Trixie looked around. Speed's description was dead on ball accurate, there were fishing nets and lanterns as far as the eye could see. The tables all had different colored citron candles and there were Hawaiian travel posters on the walls. A jukebox was playing some Young Rascals tune and there were few people in the place to match the scant amount of cars outside in the parking lot.
A waiter took two menus and led them to a table that had a fishnet draped decoratively around one side, closing it off from the rest of the room, making the seating somewhat private while they faced the sunset hued beach. Speed assisted Trixie in her chair then he sat across from her and grasped her hand.
"So how do you like it?"
Trixie glanced about. "It certainly has atmosphere," she said smiling. "I gotta hand it to you."
"Told ya. The perfect place for a quiet meal. You hungry?"
"Uh-huh."
They both made their selections, and as the orders came, enjoyed what had become a rarity of late, a nice quiet time together. Conversation flowed from the upcoming race to families, dreams, and the future. Speed found himself as always when with Trixie, mesmerized, drinking in her dulcet tones, her delicate beauty, her bright mind. He had known for a while that he was head over heels in love with her but wanted to move slowly, for both their sakes. He had just turned 19 and he felt the world was his oyster, beginning the racing career that he hoped would take him well into middle age. A serious relationship with a woman was something that he wanted but it wasn't a priority, racing was first. At least that's what he had thought before he met Trixie. Now she was the kind of girl that he thought he would never find, adventurous, unafraid, and at the same time, loyal and supportive. She loved being part of the Go Team and put everything into her role which made him love her even more if it was possible.
For Trixie's part as she conversed with Speed, she found herself in awe of the changes in her life in just the span of a month. The events were occurring and changing at breakneck speed, and she felt at times like she were at the mercy of a whirling vortex, with circumstances constantly in flux. She also found herself placed firmly in the midst of a loving, caring group of people, the likes of which she had never before been privileged to be part. All her life, she had been the proverbial "poor little rich girl", whose mother died when she was a toddler and her father's business had occupied his time. He had wanted to take her with him all the time but it was hardly practical to take a little girl along while he and his fleet of pilots flew for the Formula 1 racing circuit. So she had been left in the care of an au pair until old enough to go to exclusive boarding schools. Summer vacations, however were golden times when she accompanied her father all over the world as he flew for the circuit and her love for racing and flying grew. That was her family life.
There were times that Trixie could hardly believe that she was firmly in the life and circle that included the most talented and celebrated young racer in the circuit, Speed Racer. That she was on his team was incredible enough but to be his girlfriend, and spend tender moments alone with him while he held her close to his heart was like a dream. She loved everything about him but she loved especially his eyes, eyes blue as a warm ocean with a depth and honesty to them that drew her like a moth to a flame. She knew that she was in love with him, and sensed that he was with her but she knew she needed to proceed slowly, for their youthful age was an obstacle that stood as a barrier to pushing things beyond the point of reason. She also knew his family would not want him to settle down so young. And his family had adopted her and made her so much a part of them, they were as dear to her as if she were truly of the same flesh and blood so she did not want rash decisions and unbridled passion to jeopardize her place in their hearts. Since first born son Rex's hasty and bitter departure, Speed had become the family's cause celebre, the Great White Hope and he was eager to live up to, meet, and exceed those expectations. This was something she did not want to infringe upon, Speed and the Racers were too important to her.
When the meal was finished and paid for, Speed led her back to the Mach 5 and then drove her to a nightclub called TROPICA CALIENTE and pulled into a parking place. This place was considerably more crowded and Trixie felt some trepidation as she took Speed's hand, getting an unsettling feeling of déjà vu. But Speed had been so sweet and attentive and he was looking forward to doing some dancing so she kept her fears to herself as she clung to Speed's hand with both of hers.
He must have picked up on her nervousness because as they entered the noisy crowded place, he leaned down and shouted in her ear, "Hey, are you okay?"
Trixie looked up at his concerned face and smiled as she nodded. "I'm fine."
Speed was unconvinced. "Are you sure?"
She nodded again as she perpetuated the lie. "I'm fine, Speed. Really."
He grinned and squeezed her hand as he led her into the multitude of revelers.
They finally found two seats against the wall to the right of the dance floor and sat down. Speed hooked his arm behind the back of Trixie's chair to settle in and get comfortable and to allow his arm to brush against her bare shoulders. He loved the feel of her silky skin and took every opportunity to touch her when he could. Earlier at the beach while Spritle and Chim Chim had given them a brief time alone he had been able to snatch a moment to rub suntan lotion on her back and he had savored the soft smoothness, wishing that his brother was not so close by. Her perfume softly assailed his senses then as it was doing now, sending his mind into a spin, and he determined that later he would pick up with her where he had left off this morning when Spritle had interrupted him. Speed brought his hand up to cup Trixie's shoulder and he gently kneaded it, making her smile up at him.
"That feels good," she said looking up at him, her eyes aglow.
Speed grinned. "Well, there's more where that came from."
He leaned down to capture her lips when a loud feminine voice cried out, "Look, it's Speed Racer!" A gaggle of girls suddenly pushed their way through the crowd and made their way to where Speed and Trixie sat.
"Oooh, It's really you!"
"Isn't he dreamy?"
"Will you give me your autograph?"
"Speed, you are so cool!"
As Speed politely fielded the fan adoration heaping on him, Trixie slipped quietly away, heading for the ladies room. Once in there she grinned at her reflection and said, "Better get used to it, Trix. This is one of the drawbacks of being involved with a major sports celebrity."
She opened her purse and ran a brush through her chestnut curls then freshened her lipstick and gave herself the once over in the mirror. Satisfied, she patted the miniskirt of her pink sundress and headed back out. As she picked her way through the crowd back to where she and Speed had been seated earlier, the smile that had curved her lips froze as her eyes viewed the scene right in front of her. She shook her head and blinked to do a double take to make sure she was actually seeing what her mind was trying to comprehend. Seated in the chair next to Speed she had temporarily vacated was none other than Debbie, dressed in a skin-tight black halter minidress that left very little to the imagination. Like the night of the press party, she had her arms hooked around Speed's neck, purring at him seductively, as his expression was one of mixed emotions.
Trixie debated as what to do. Part of her wanted to vanish among the milling throng, which she was positive, given the size of the crowd, would have gone unnoticed. But with a look of grim determination, she decided that the best route was not to run as before but to face this problem head on. She straightened her shoulders and walked over. "Humph! Am I interrupting anything?"
Speed looked relieved as he disengaged himself and shot to his feet. "Trixie! Baby, where'd you go? I was looking for you." He rushed over to Trixie and slipped his arm around her shoulders.
"Yeah, so I see," Trixie said dryly. "Speed, aren't you going to introduce me to your.friend?"
Debbie got to her feet and smiled a saccharine smile that didn't reach the cold violet depths of her eyes. She offered her hand. "I'm Debbie Donne. Me and Speedy are old friends aren't we, lover?"
Trixie graciously took it and was amazed by the brevity of the gesture. She was immediately on guard with the latent hostility emanating from the other woman. "I'm Trixie Shimura. Speed and I have been dating for about three weeks." She slid her arm around his waist possessively and smiled, tossing a gauntlet at the strawberry blonde.
Debbie's eyes narrowed slightly but she smiled her fake smile. "Isn't that sweet? That was about the time I had let Speed down easy because I was headed to Paris for my modeling shoot. Poor Speedy was destroyed, weren't you, honey?"
Speed's eyes widened. "I-I was what?" he said incredulously.
"Destroyed. Now don't try to be brave, I know you, Speed, laughing on the outside, crying on the inside. But you don't have to. I'm sure Tammy doesn't mind do you, dear?"
"It's Trixie."
"Oh I'm sorry," Debbie said with assumed repentance as she smiled her Cheshire Cat smile. "But, really you don't mind if Speedy is himself. He was always himself with me, weren't you?" She sidled up to Speed and brushed imaginary lint from his shoulder as he stood there dumbly and blushed.
Trixie felt her temper rise as Debbie seemed to weave a sensual spell over Speed, whose arm slid from around her. She watched as the other girl bewitched him and her heart sank as she sensed him slipping away. She suddenly felt like an intruder as she felt the sparks between them.
Trixie then watched the strawberry blonde as she broadcast her intentions leaning on Speed's chest, with her batting violet eyes and it took every bit of control she possessed not to want to scratch her eyes out. But the hardest thing for Trixie to deal with was Speed's inertia, he was just standing there in suspended animation while Debbie wove her seductive web. Enough had finally become enough.
"Well, if you'll excuse me," Trixie said with all the iciness she could muster. "But three is definitely a crowd and far be it from me to be part of a crowd!" She whirled on her heel and fled off into the thick throng of people.
Her leaving woke Speed out of his speechless trance. Finally oblivious to Debbie's presence he dove into the crowd, yelling at the top of his lungs over the throbbing dance music, "Trixie! Trixie! Aw, come on come back. Trixie!" leaving a triumphant Debbie behind gloating. She made her way through the crowd to the pay phone and dialed a number.
"I've made sure that you have a clear way to her," she told the party on the other line.
Trixie had somehow made her way to the exit, blinded by the tears that finally fell. She didn't even know that she had reached the outside when she bumped into a broad muscled chest and firm arms with strong hands that grasped her and held her fast, keeping her from going further. She looked up into the handsome face of Phil Pistone with tear-filled eyes.
"Hey, hey now! Such a bellissima face marred with tears. Whatsa matter?" he said soothingly.
Trixie sniffled as she answered, "N-nothing, I-I just want to leave, that's all." She tried to break away but he tightened his hold on her.
"Look, I gotta my car here. Let me taka you home," Pistone said affably as he began to lead her toward the parking lot. He could not believe the stroke of luck to run into Trixie Shimura here. He could carry out Wiley's order to get rid of her tonight by gaining her trust and providing an "accident." He was filled with gleeful anticipation. "Rescuing a lovely lady is my pleasure."
A hand reached out and pulled Trixie away from the Italian racer's grasp. He whirled around in annoyance and was confronted by the solid form of Racer X. A sneer curled his lip.
"Whatta you think you're doing, signore? The lady needs a lift." He reached to take back Trixie's elbow but Racer X skewered him with his eyes as he pulled her away.
"You're too kind Signore Pistone, but I will see to it the lady gets home safely. You needn't trouble yourself," Racer X replied smoothly with a steely glare from his eyes.
Pistone was not a man to take what he perceived as impertinence willingly but his built in sense of self-preservation told him something about the masked man that had him on his guard. This was no man with which to cross swords.
"Very well, signore. I leave her to your capable hands. Good evening, signorina," he nodded shortly then disappeared.
Trixie heaved a sigh of relief. "Thank you Racer X. I didn't know what to do."
Racer X smiled, "That's okay, Trixie. But where's Speed? Isn't he here with you?"
Trixie shook her head and then gestured inside. "He's.busy."
Speed, in the meantime, made his way through the nightclub crowd to the door, brushing off fans and pushing himself forward until he finally reached the door. He exited and headed at a dead sprint toward the parking lot then stopped short as he spotted his girlfriend and the masked racer. He hurried over, out of breath.
"Trixie, why'd you cut out on me like that?" he wanted to know as he caught his breath. He eyed her in mild annoyance.
"Humph! Like you even noticed. I got the feeling I was in the way so I split."
"What are you talking about? Of course I noticed, I came right after you. So what are you doing here." he asked as he tossed his head toward Racer X, "with him?"
Racer X spoke up, "Speed, Pistone was here and he was about to take Trixie home but I stopped him."
Speed's eyes narrowed to sapphire slits. "That joker's got a hell of a lot of nerve." He turned on Trixie. "And you were just gonna go with him?"
Trixie bristled and she raised her chin. "I acted the same way you acted when Debbie was hanging all over you," she spat. "I didn't know what to say and then Racer X came and got me."
Speed's expression changed to one of grudging gratitude. "Thanks again, Racer X for rescuing Trixie and thanks for the other night. She told me that you got her back safely. I'm grateful."
Racer X smiled, "Glad to help. Have a pleasant evening." He headed into the parking lot.
Speed watched him go then noticed Trixie had turned her back to him. He became filled with a burning in his gut that pushed him to make amends and approached her hesitantly. "Trix?"
Trixie remained ramrod straight, her back to him and silent. Speed sighed, realizing that it wasn't going to be easy. He walked up to her and grasped her shoulders gently. "Not that I don't deserve it, but are you gonna stick me in the deep freeze all night?"
Trixie shrugged her slender shoulders. "I should. You were frozen like an iceberg when that tramp had her hands all over you. I thought you were nailed to the floor," she sniffed.
Speed turned her around and took her chin in his hand to raise her eyes to meet his. "You're right. You're completely and totally right and I'm sorry, sweetheart. I should've set Debbie straight from the get-go. Forgive me?" he pleaded, his blue eyes wide.
Trixie's pretty face was doubtful but she felt herself drawn irresistibly into his earnest moonlit cobalt orbs and her anger and hurt dissipated like smoke in the wind. "Yes, Speed I forgive you," she replied demurely.
Speed enfolded her in his corded arms. "You're the best, Trix." He cupped her face in his hands and brought his mouth to hers in a deep lingering kiss, parting her lips so he could taste her sweetness.
They remained so entangled until Trixie pulled away remembering where they were. "I guess we never got to dance," she remarked breathlessly.
"Yeah, but I got a better idea. How about that moonlight drive you owe me," Speed said persuasively as he pulled Trixie into the parking lot and over to the Mach 5. He opened the passenger door and helped her in, went over and leapt into the driver's seat, fired up the vehicle and then peeled off into the soft tropical night.
The High Tides Inn was an exclusive, secluded waterfront inn just to the north of Raytona's city limits. It was an old plantation style building brimming with old South genteel elegance, which catered to the very wealthy who vacationed in the resort town. The proprietor also prided himself on his reputation and in as such, he was the very soul of discretion when it came to the privacy of his guests. This made his inn an ideal place for illicit affairs and shady deals all under the guise of respectability as long as the price was right.
Phil Pistone carried his matched alligator luggage and walked arrogantly to the desk where he rang the bell impatiently. "Avante! Anybody! Come on out here, now!"
A haughty looking middle-aged man with sharp features came out of an office and looked over his glasses disdainfully. "May I help you?" he inquired with a hint of ice.
"Yes, I'd like a room. Preferably one with a view," Pistone commanded.
The man sniffed, "I doubt you can afford to lodge here. We're quite exclusive and--" His next words were cut off as he viewed the large wad of money Pistone casually took out of his jacket pocket. "You did say a room with a view, didn't you sir?" he purred obsequiously.
Pistone chuckled snidely at the way the snobbish man changed his tune. It never failed, just the sight of cold, hard, cash was enough to melt any human iceberg whether it was a ice-princess beauty queen or a snooty innkeeper. The latter summoned a bellboy to retrieve Pistone's luggage.
"Take Mr. Pistone to room 209," the innkeeper ordered as the bellboy picked up the bags.
As Pistone and the steward passed the lobby area, a man with a newspaper surreptitiously watched them go by. He was especially interested in the tall Italian racer who was in the process of following the bellhop up the sweeping staircase. Tossing the paper aside, he jumped to his feet and laid his hand on Pistone's shoulder.
"Mr. Pistone?"
Pistone whirled around and skewered the man with a glare. "Si. And what do you want?"
The mysterious man smiled. "I understand that you are in need of a ride."
Pistone sneered, "Good news she travels fast, uh? So what?"
"My name is Fixer and my partner Mr. Wiley would like to speak to you. Do you have a minute?" Fixer asked politely.
Pistone was about to refuse when he remembered that Wiley was the millionaire who owned the Alpha Racing Team. His eyes lit up in interest. "I may. Where is he?"
"Up in his suite. May I escort you there?"
Pistone smiled, "Lead the way."
The two men climbed the curving grand staircase and Fixer led Pistone to a suite of rooms that were to the right of the stairs. Fixer knocked on the carved oak door and opened the door to let both himself and Pistone in.
A shadowy figure stood silhouetted against the tropical sunlight streaming in through the window and turned to face them. A man, late fifties, in a dark suit contrasting with the pastel décor of the suite set an imposing figure as he regarded the two men.
"Well, well, Mr. Pistone. I'm pleased by the fortuitous circumstances that allowed our paths to cross. Please make yourself at home," Wiley said cordially.
Pistone took a wary seat. "Who are you?" he asked imperiously.
"Forgive my lapse in manners. My name is Wiley. It's a pleasure to meet a man of such great talent."
Pistone was not impressed. "I was told by your partner Wiley, that you wish to speak to me. So let's end all this other foolishness and get to the point."
Wiley smiled blandly. It seemed that the reports of this young man's arrogance were not contrived but he was unfazed. "I have a proposition for you."
"Yes?"
"I understand that your position with Cannoli Racing has been terminated?" Wiley asked softly.
Pistone's eyes narrowed at the reminder. "That is correct," he replied coldly.
"So you are available to drive for my team?"
Pistone smiled a slow smile that did not reach his eyes. "Ifa the price is right."
Wiley reached to his side and brought out a large black briefcase. He placed it on the coffee table beside Pistone, dialed a combination and the case sprang open, revealing bundles of stacked currency. He withdrew a stack and tossed it toward the Italian racer.
"That should serve as a down payment. So what do you say?"
Pistone gaped at the stack as he thumbed through the bills. "All this to drive for the Alpha Team?"
Wiley smiled grimly. "There is another task I wish you to do. Do you know a lovely young lady by the name of Trixie Shimura?"
Pistone's wariness returned. "I believe she's the spotter for the Go Team. And she's the girlfriend of their driver, Speed Racer." His eyes glittered as he thought of Speed and a burning hatred filled him.
Wiley nodded. "I want you to dispose of Miss Shimura," he commanded quietly.
Pistone felt icy fingers of dread clutch at his spine. As much as he had wanted revenge on Speed, murder was definitely not his style. He handed back the stack of bills.
"Grazie, but I'ma afraid that I'm not interested. I don't want to go to jail so mi scusi." He made to get up but Fixer and another man both forcefully pushed him back down.
Wiley chuckled and Pistone felt as if Satan himself was there in the midst. "You won't, not if you handle it in the proper manner. Accidents do happen you know."
Pistone stared at the man incredulously then stared at the enormous pile of money before him. It beckoned and taunted him, like a siren song and then the added bonus of exacting the most excruciating revenge to Speed, to take away the person that meant the world to him sealed his decision. He smiled slowly as he cast his lot.
"You got a deal."
Wiley smiled a pleased smile. "Splendid. Welcome aboard." He offered his hand to shake and Pistone took it, his deal with the devil complete.
After Pistone left, Wiley picked up the phone and dialed a number. He waited until the line answered. "I need to meet with you about what we spoke of last night. Yes, I did and now I want you to do your part to make sure Speed Racer doesn't interfere with my plans. And remember, I'm paying you well. Yes, I will. Thank you." He hung up the receiver with a smug expression.
At the Raytona Speed Oval driver's area where all the racing teams had their coaches and trailers, Speed stepped out of his and strode over to the one Trixie was housed in. He knocked on the door.
"Come in," Trixie's voice called out.
Speed opened the door and walked in. "Hiya, Trix. You disappeared since practice and we had a date. What are ya doin', homework?"
She was seated at the table and had a map and legal pad before her. She was making notes as she studied the map. She glanced up at him briefly then turned back to her task. "Yep. Just getting prepared for the race," she said shortly.
"Ah, I see. Why don't you take a break and go for a ride with me? Sparky fixed up the Mach 5 after the crash and she's good to go. So how about it?"
"I'm busy."
"Yeah, but all work and no play," Speed coaxed as he took a seat right next to her and reached his hand to brush a stray curl from her eyes. But he was dismayed when she moved her head away and scooted away from him, closer to the wall.
"Hey, what gives. You mad at me?" he asked, puzzled. "What'd I do now?"
Trixie sighed as she pushed the pad and pen away and turned to face him. "Speed, can I ask you a question?"
"Sure, shoot." He smiled affectionately at her.
Her eyes bored into his. "Why did you have to file that formal complaint? It really wasn't necessary IRC had already fined Pistone and the Cannoli Team. So why did you?"
Speed's smile faded and he got to his feet as he became somewhat belligerent. "So you're gonna give me grief about it too, huh?" he said acerbically. "You saw what that reptile did to me!"
Trixie got to her feet and right into Speed's face. "Yes, Speed I did. But I think that you should've just let IRC handle the incident and let it go."
Speed folded his arms across his chest obstinately and his face was set in a stubborn scowl. "Save the lecture. Pops reamed me out about the whole thing before. But I would've expected you at least to be on my side, Trixie."
She reached and brushed his hair from his eyes. "Oh Speed, I am on your side. I just hope that what you did doesn't come back to haunt you. These things have a way of coming home to roost," she said sagely.
Speed's expression softened. He took her hand in both of his and kissed it. "Stop worrying, honey. I had to do it or Pistone will just think that he can get away with being a dirty racer. Rules are rules and we all have to follow them."
"Are you sure that's the only reason, Speed?"
"What'd you mean?"
Trixie sighed, "Aren't you just a little vindictive 'cause he was talking to me the other night?"
Speed scowled again as Trixie scored a direct hit. He remembered Pistone asking him where she was before the practice run and how it had infuriated him. But he partially denied it, saying, "That certainly didn't endear him to me. But reporting him had nothing to do with that, what he did to me was illegal to race rules." He continued insisting, "Racing like that could get someone hurt."
Trixie looked unconvinced so Speed changed tact. He slid his arms around her, pulled her against him and gazed into her sea green orbs with his own ocean blue ones. "Listen, I have a great idea. Why don't we just put everyone and everything aside for the moment and concentrate on us?" He buried his face in the hollow of her neck and nuzzled her earlobe, sending a delicious thrill through her senses.
"Speed," she protested weakly.
"Shhh," he whispered, his mouth tracing a fiery path along her shoulder and neck. She sighed contentedly and surrendered to his tender insistent passion.
They were interrupted but a strident seven-year-old summons as Spritle's voice sounded from outside, "Speedy! Trixie!"
Speed groaned in annoyance as he broke away from his girlfriend, "I need to put a muzzle on that kid. He's got the worst timing."
There was a constant banging on the trailer door. "Trixie? Is Speedy in there with you?"
Trixie giggled and said resignedly, "We'd better let him in."
"Do we have to?" Speed pseudo-whined like a little boy.
Trixie threw him a look then opened the door to let the Racer family baby with his ever-present monkey pal in.
"Hi Trixie! Hi Speedy! Whatcha guys doin'? It's a great day to go to the beach, so let's go, huh?"
Speed and Trixie exchanged glances. Then Speed spoke up, "Listen Spritle, Trixie and me have some work to do before the race. So you and Chim Chim go play, okay?"
"Yeah, sure you both just want to be alone and get all mushy. Yecch!" Spritle wrinkled his nose in distate and Chim Chim mimicked his buddy.
With that remark, Speed's frustration had reached its limit. "Yeah, well if you hate it so much how come every time me and Trixie go out on a ride, you stow away in my trunk, huh?" he snapped his patience thin. "I can't even take my girl for a ride to be alone with her without you tagging along, spying on me. You're the original third wheel."
"Speed," Trixie pleaded as Spritle lowered his head in shame and tears began to flow.
He brushed tears away impatiently. "I-I'm sorry I bothered you." He and Chim Chim scurried to the door.
Trixie threw a reproachful glare at Speed as she went out after the boy. "Hey Spritle, wait up. Speed didn't mean what he said. Honest," she gently reassured him as she knelt down and grasped his small shoulders.
"B-but h-he was so mean, Trixie. I-I don't mean to be a pest, I just like being with you guys so much," Spritle wailed, his tears flowing in earnest as he buried his head in her shoulder, sobbing. Chim Chim patted his back to comfort him.
Speed sighed as he heard Spritle's anguish and he became filled with self- loathing. He exited Trixie's trailer and walked hesitantly over to where his kid brother and girlfriend were huddled and knelt beside them.
"Gee, Spritle, I'm sorry I made you cry. I didn't mean what I said, I was just sore. Will ya forgive me?" Speed asked contritely as he put his hand on his brother's shoulder.
Spritle looked up from Trixie's shoulder sniffling, "I-I forgive you, Speedy." He pulled away and launched himself in his brother's arms. Looking up into his brother's face he asked hopefully, "C-could we go to the beach, Speedy?"
Speed looked at Trixie sighed and shrugged. "Okay, Spritle. Go over to the folks' suite and get your suit on."
"Yea! Groovy!" Spritle crowed happily. He turned to the chimp, "C'mon Chim Chim. We're going to the beach." He took off like a shot, with Chim Chim right behind.
Speed got to his feet and helped Trixie up. "Well, that takes care of the rest of the day," he said in resignation. "What is it they say about the best laid plans?"
Trixie patted his shoulder comfortingly. "Cheer up, it'll be fun."
"Ya think?" Speed said glumly. "Seriously, baby, I wanted to spend the day with you."
"Well, when we come back from taking Spritle to the beach, we can do something," she promised with a twinkle in her eyes.
Speed brightened, "Yeah, how about dinner tonight and then maybe some dancing. Or whatever you want, I know some groovy out of the way places around here."
"Out of the way?"
"Yeah, places that I know we won't be bothered. I found them when I came out here one year for Spring Break. We can have privacy and have a good time at the same time. So how about it, I want to make up for what happened at the press party," Speed said persuasively.
Trixie grinned, "Okay. You got yourself a date." She reached over and kissed him then said, "We'd better get a move on, Spritle will be here any minute."
"Yeah, don't remind me."
They split up and went into their respective trailers to change into bathing suits.
A soft sea breeze was wafting in from the shore that evening at sunset as Speed and Trixie rode the Mach 5 through town, the gentle wind swirling their hair as they tooled along. Speed had the radio on and some Four Tops Motown was drifting up from his speakers and they sat close as usual, shoulder to shoulder.
Speed pulled into a palm tree lined driveway that led to a beachfront bungalow which had a large sign that read Kahuna's Hut. He drove into a parking place and cut the motor.
Trixie glanced around and noticed that there were few cars parked in the lot. "Speed, how'd you find this place? There's hardly anyone here."
Speed grinned, "I found it when I was here last year. The food's great and the atmosphere's really groovy. Kind of like a beach bum's hut like in all those Gidget flicks." He got out of the car and came over to her side to help her out. "C'mon."
They made their way into the place and Trixie looked around. Speed's description was dead on ball accurate, there were fishing nets and lanterns as far as the eye could see. The tables all had different colored citron candles and there were Hawaiian travel posters on the walls. A jukebox was playing some Young Rascals tune and there were few people in the place to match the scant amount of cars outside in the parking lot.
A waiter took two menus and led them to a table that had a fishnet draped decoratively around one side, closing it off from the rest of the room, making the seating somewhat private while they faced the sunset hued beach. Speed assisted Trixie in her chair then he sat across from her and grasped her hand.
"So how do you like it?"
Trixie glanced about. "It certainly has atmosphere," she said smiling. "I gotta hand it to you."
"Told ya. The perfect place for a quiet meal. You hungry?"
"Uh-huh."
They both made their selections, and as the orders came, enjoyed what had become a rarity of late, a nice quiet time together. Conversation flowed from the upcoming race to families, dreams, and the future. Speed found himself as always when with Trixie, mesmerized, drinking in her dulcet tones, her delicate beauty, her bright mind. He had known for a while that he was head over heels in love with her but wanted to move slowly, for both their sakes. He had just turned 19 and he felt the world was his oyster, beginning the racing career that he hoped would take him well into middle age. A serious relationship with a woman was something that he wanted but it wasn't a priority, racing was first. At least that's what he had thought before he met Trixie. Now she was the kind of girl that he thought he would never find, adventurous, unafraid, and at the same time, loyal and supportive. She loved being part of the Go Team and put everything into her role which made him love her even more if it was possible.
For Trixie's part as she conversed with Speed, she found herself in awe of the changes in her life in just the span of a month. The events were occurring and changing at breakneck speed, and she felt at times like she were at the mercy of a whirling vortex, with circumstances constantly in flux. She also found herself placed firmly in the midst of a loving, caring group of people, the likes of which she had never before been privileged to be part. All her life, she had been the proverbial "poor little rich girl", whose mother died when she was a toddler and her father's business had occupied his time. He had wanted to take her with him all the time but it was hardly practical to take a little girl along while he and his fleet of pilots flew for the Formula 1 racing circuit. So she had been left in the care of an au pair until old enough to go to exclusive boarding schools. Summer vacations, however were golden times when she accompanied her father all over the world as he flew for the circuit and her love for racing and flying grew. That was her family life.
There were times that Trixie could hardly believe that she was firmly in the life and circle that included the most talented and celebrated young racer in the circuit, Speed Racer. That she was on his team was incredible enough but to be his girlfriend, and spend tender moments alone with him while he held her close to his heart was like a dream. She loved everything about him but she loved especially his eyes, eyes blue as a warm ocean with a depth and honesty to them that drew her like a moth to a flame. She knew that she was in love with him, and sensed that he was with her but she knew she needed to proceed slowly, for their youthful age was an obstacle that stood as a barrier to pushing things beyond the point of reason. She also knew his family would not want him to settle down so young. And his family had adopted her and made her so much a part of them, they were as dear to her as if she were truly of the same flesh and blood so she did not want rash decisions and unbridled passion to jeopardize her place in their hearts. Since first born son Rex's hasty and bitter departure, Speed had become the family's cause celebre, the Great White Hope and he was eager to live up to, meet, and exceed those expectations. This was something she did not want to infringe upon, Speed and the Racers were too important to her.
When the meal was finished and paid for, Speed led her back to the Mach 5 and then drove her to a nightclub called TROPICA CALIENTE and pulled into a parking place. This place was considerably more crowded and Trixie felt some trepidation as she took Speed's hand, getting an unsettling feeling of déjà vu. But Speed had been so sweet and attentive and he was looking forward to doing some dancing so she kept her fears to herself as she clung to Speed's hand with both of hers.
He must have picked up on her nervousness because as they entered the noisy crowded place, he leaned down and shouted in her ear, "Hey, are you okay?"
Trixie looked up at his concerned face and smiled as she nodded. "I'm fine."
Speed was unconvinced. "Are you sure?"
She nodded again as she perpetuated the lie. "I'm fine, Speed. Really."
He grinned and squeezed her hand as he led her into the multitude of revelers.
They finally found two seats against the wall to the right of the dance floor and sat down. Speed hooked his arm behind the back of Trixie's chair to settle in and get comfortable and to allow his arm to brush against her bare shoulders. He loved the feel of her silky skin and took every opportunity to touch her when he could. Earlier at the beach while Spritle and Chim Chim had given them a brief time alone he had been able to snatch a moment to rub suntan lotion on her back and he had savored the soft smoothness, wishing that his brother was not so close by. Her perfume softly assailed his senses then as it was doing now, sending his mind into a spin, and he determined that later he would pick up with her where he had left off this morning when Spritle had interrupted him. Speed brought his hand up to cup Trixie's shoulder and he gently kneaded it, making her smile up at him.
"That feels good," she said looking up at him, her eyes aglow.
Speed grinned. "Well, there's more where that came from."
He leaned down to capture her lips when a loud feminine voice cried out, "Look, it's Speed Racer!" A gaggle of girls suddenly pushed their way through the crowd and made their way to where Speed and Trixie sat.
"Oooh, It's really you!"
"Isn't he dreamy?"
"Will you give me your autograph?"
"Speed, you are so cool!"
As Speed politely fielded the fan adoration heaping on him, Trixie slipped quietly away, heading for the ladies room. Once in there she grinned at her reflection and said, "Better get used to it, Trix. This is one of the drawbacks of being involved with a major sports celebrity."
She opened her purse and ran a brush through her chestnut curls then freshened her lipstick and gave herself the once over in the mirror. Satisfied, she patted the miniskirt of her pink sundress and headed back out. As she picked her way through the crowd back to where she and Speed had been seated earlier, the smile that had curved her lips froze as her eyes viewed the scene right in front of her. She shook her head and blinked to do a double take to make sure she was actually seeing what her mind was trying to comprehend. Seated in the chair next to Speed she had temporarily vacated was none other than Debbie, dressed in a skin-tight black halter minidress that left very little to the imagination. Like the night of the press party, she had her arms hooked around Speed's neck, purring at him seductively, as his expression was one of mixed emotions.
Trixie debated as what to do. Part of her wanted to vanish among the milling throng, which she was positive, given the size of the crowd, would have gone unnoticed. But with a look of grim determination, she decided that the best route was not to run as before but to face this problem head on. She straightened her shoulders and walked over. "Humph! Am I interrupting anything?"
Speed looked relieved as he disengaged himself and shot to his feet. "Trixie! Baby, where'd you go? I was looking for you." He rushed over to Trixie and slipped his arm around her shoulders.
"Yeah, so I see," Trixie said dryly. "Speed, aren't you going to introduce me to your.friend?"
Debbie got to her feet and smiled a saccharine smile that didn't reach the cold violet depths of her eyes. She offered her hand. "I'm Debbie Donne. Me and Speedy are old friends aren't we, lover?"
Trixie graciously took it and was amazed by the brevity of the gesture. She was immediately on guard with the latent hostility emanating from the other woman. "I'm Trixie Shimura. Speed and I have been dating for about three weeks." She slid her arm around his waist possessively and smiled, tossing a gauntlet at the strawberry blonde.
Debbie's eyes narrowed slightly but she smiled her fake smile. "Isn't that sweet? That was about the time I had let Speed down easy because I was headed to Paris for my modeling shoot. Poor Speedy was destroyed, weren't you, honey?"
Speed's eyes widened. "I-I was what?" he said incredulously.
"Destroyed. Now don't try to be brave, I know you, Speed, laughing on the outside, crying on the inside. But you don't have to. I'm sure Tammy doesn't mind do you, dear?"
"It's Trixie."
"Oh I'm sorry," Debbie said with assumed repentance as she smiled her Cheshire Cat smile. "But, really you don't mind if Speedy is himself. He was always himself with me, weren't you?" She sidled up to Speed and brushed imaginary lint from his shoulder as he stood there dumbly and blushed.
Trixie felt her temper rise as Debbie seemed to weave a sensual spell over Speed, whose arm slid from around her. She watched as the other girl bewitched him and her heart sank as she sensed him slipping away. She suddenly felt like an intruder as she felt the sparks between them.
Trixie then watched the strawberry blonde as she broadcast her intentions leaning on Speed's chest, with her batting violet eyes and it took every bit of control she possessed not to want to scratch her eyes out. But the hardest thing for Trixie to deal with was Speed's inertia, he was just standing there in suspended animation while Debbie wove her seductive web. Enough had finally become enough.
"Well, if you'll excuse me," Trixie said with all the iciness she could muster. "But three is definitely a crowd and far be it from me to be part of a crowd!" She whirled on her heel and fled off into the thick throng of people.
Her leaving woke Speed out of his speechless trance. Finally oblivious to Debbie's presence he dove into the crowd, yelling at the top of his lungs over the throbbing dance music, "Trixie! Trixie! Aw, come on come back. Trixie!" leaving a triumphant Debbie behind gloating. She made her way through the crowd to the pay phone and dialed a number.
"I've made sure that you have a clear way to her," she told the party on the other line.
Trixie had somehow made her way to the exit, blinded by the tears that finally fell. She didn't even know that she had reached the outside when she bumped into a broad muscled chest and firm arms with strong hands that grasped her and held her fast, keeping her from going further. She looked up into the handsome face of Phil Pistone with tear-filled eyes.
"Hey, hey now! Such a bellissima face marred with tears. Whatsa matter?" he said soothingly.
Trixie sniffled as she answered, "N-nothing, I-I just want to leave, that's all." She tried to break away but he tightened his hold on her.
"Look, I gotta my car here. Let me taka you home," Pistone said affably as he began to lead her toward the parking lot. He could not believe the stroke of luck to run into Trixie Shimura here. He could carry out Wiley's order to get rid of her tonight by gaining her trust and providing an "accident." He was filled with gleeful anticipation. "Rescuing a lovely lady is my pleasure."
A hand reached out and pulled Trixie away from the Italian racer's grasp. He whirled around in annoyance and was confronted by the solid form of Racer X. A sneer curled his lip.
"Whatta you think you're doing, signore? The lady needs a lift." He reached to take back Trixie's elbow but Racer X skewered him with his eyes as he pulled her away.
"You're too kind Signore Pistone, but I will see to it the lady gets home safely. You needn't trouble yourself," Racer X replied smoothly with a steely glare from his eyes.
Pistone was not a man to take what he perceived as impertinence willingly but his built in sense of self-preservation told him something about the masked man that had him on his guard. This was no man with which to cross swords.
"Very well, signore. I leave her to your capable hands. Good evening, signorina," he nodded shortly then disappeared.
Trixie heaved a sigh of relief. "Thank you Racer X. I didn't know what to do."
Racer X smiled, "That's okay, Trixie. But where's Speed? Isn't he here with you?"
Trixie shook her head and then gestured inside. "He's.busy."
Speed, in the meantime, made his way through the nightclub crowd to the door, brushing off fans and pushing himself forward until he finally reached the door. He exited and headed at a dead sprint toward the parking lot then stopped short as he spotted his girlfriend and the masked racer. He hurried over, out of breath.
"Trixie, why'd you cut out on me like that?" he wanted to know as he caught his breath. He eyed her in mild annoyance.
"Humph! Like you even noticed. I got the feeling I was in the way so I split."
"What are you talking about? Of course I noticed, I came right after you. So what are you doing here." he asked as he tossed his head toward Racer X, "with him?"
Racer X spoke up, "Speed, Pistone was here and he was about to take Trixie home but I stopped him."
Speed's eyes narrowed to sapphire slits. "That joker's got a hell of a lot of nerve." He turned on Trixie. "And you were just gonna go with him?"
Trixie bristled and she raised her chin. "I acted the same way you acted when Debbie was hanging all over you," she spat. "I didn't know what to say and then Racer X came and got me."
Speed's expression changed to one of grudging gratitude. "Thanks again, Racer X for rescuing Trixie and thanks for the other night. She told me that you got her back safely. I'm grateful."
Racer X smiled, "Glad to help. Have a pleasant evening." He headed into the parking lot.
Speed watched him go then noticed Trixie had turned her back to him. He became filled with a burning in his gut that pushed him to make amends and approached her hesitantly. "Trix?"
Trixie remained ramrod straight, her back to him and silent. Speed sighed, realizing that it wasn't going to be easy. He walked up to her and grasped her shoulders gently. "Not that I don't deserve it, but are you gonna stick me in the deep freeze all night?"
Trixie shrugged her slender shoulders. "I should. You were frozen like an iceberg when that tramp had her hands all over you. I thought you were nailed to the floor," she sniffed.
Speed turned her around and took her chin in his hand to raise her eyes to meet his. "You're right. You're completely and totally right and I'm sorry, sweetheart. I should've set Debbie straight from the get-go. Forgive me?" he pleaded, his blue eyes wide.
Trixie's pretty face was doubtful but she felt herself drawn irresistibly into his earnest moonlit cobalt orbs and her anger and hurt dissipated like smoke in the wind. "Yes, Speed I forgive you," she replied demurely.
Speed enfolded her in his corded arms. "You're the best, Trix." He cupped her face in his hands and brought his mouth to hers in a deep lingering kiss, parting her lips so he could taste her sweetness.
They remained so entangled until Trixie pulled away remembering where they were. "I guess we never got to dance," she remarked breathlessly.
"Yeah, but I got a better idea. How about that moonlight drive you owe me," Speed said persuasively as he pulled Trixie into the parking lot and over to the Mach 5. He opened the passenger door and helped her in, went over and leapt into the driver's seat, fired up the vehicle and then peeled off into the soft tropical night.