WHEN EVENTS COLLIDE
It was June 1st, a balmy sunny day and Speed and Sparky were submerged beneath the raised hood of the Mach 5, giving her a tune-up in the driveway of the Racer home. Ordinarily, they would have been working on the car at the Pops Motors garage but they opted to do the maintenance at the house so that is where they did it. The carport was well stocked with the necessary parts and tools so both young men were hard at work when Trixie's yellow convertible pulled up with Trixie and her bridesmaids.
Speed wiped the grease from his hands as he drew up to the driver's side to greet his future wife. With a smear of grease marring his handsome features he grinned and waved at the young women as they all climbed out of the vehicle.
"Hiya, everybody. Hey, baby," he said to Trixie, leaning over for a kiss but she shied away. Hurt by her sudden and unexpected rejection he asked, "What gives?"
Trixie wrinkled her pretty nose, "Speed, you're covered in grease. I don't want to get any on me."
"Humph! That never bothered you before," he protested in dismay as she went to the rear of the convertible opened the trunk and reached back and grasped a large plastic garment bag. Janine, Lilly, and Calcia did the same.
Sparky came over and gave Janine a kiss. "So what have we all here?"
Speed grunted, perturbed. "Beats me, but at least you got a kiss." He regarded Trixie with a curious frown. "So what's all this, Trixie?"
She looked at him in amazement. "You forgot all about today, didn't you?"
"Yeah, I guess I did. So humor me and refresh my memory."
Trixie sighed, "I had my final fitting for my wedding gown today. Remember, I told you that me and the girls had to pick up our gowns." She stood off and pouted, miffed.
"Ahhh, yeah I guess I did forget," Speed said, realizing that that was why Trixie avoided him.
"That's right, Speed. You wouldn't want to get grease all over Trixie when she has to try on her wedding gown, now would you?" Lilly Marker admonished.
Speed grinned sheepishly. "No you're right, Lilly. I definitely wouldn't want to do that." He approached Trixie gingerly. "I'm sorry, baby. I forgot, forgive me?"
Her expression softened. "Of course I forgive you." She smiled invitingly. "And later when I'm done and you clean up I'll make it up to you."
Speed's eyes sparkled at the promise. "I'm gonna hold you to that."
The front door opened and Mom Racer stepped on the stoop. She called out, "Trixie! I thought I heard a car pull up. C'mon inside all of you, I'm dying to see the gowns." She withdrew back into the house.
Trixie leaned up carefully and planted a kiss on Speed's clean cheek. "Remember, Speed, you can't come in. You can't see me in my gown before the ceremony." She headed up the stoop and in the house with Calcia and Lilly right behind.
Janine turned to Sparky. "I've gotta split too. See ya later, Spark." She kissed him again and scampered into the house. Sparky stood there rubbing his cheek with a smitten look.
Speed gave his buddy a knowing grin. "Boy, is it my imagination or did the temperature just rise out here?" he asked as he fanned himself theatrically, his cobalt eyes wide with innocence.
Sparky shook himself out of his daze. "Whattya mean?"
Speed snickered, "Maybe I'm not the only one giving up the single life, huh pal?"
Red as a beet, Sparky looked nonplussed. "I don't know what you're talking about." He turned huffily and headed back to the Mach 5 burying his head under the hood while Speed followed and continued to chuckle, thoroughly amused.
That evening as the sun was setting, the Mach 5 was parked in Speed and Trixie's favorite spot at Lake Icy Chill. With his arm around her, Speed was telling Trixie all about Sparky's reaction to his good-natured ribbing about Janine.
Trixie scolded him, "Oh Speed, that wasn't very nice of you. Teasing Sparky about Janine and his dating her, really!"
"But, honey you should hear how he ribs me about us. Sometimes he really ticks me off," Speed protested. "Besides, he's my best friend, we kid around all the time, you know that."
"Still, that doesn't make it right," Trixie insisted.
Speed sighed deciding that the last thing he wanted to do was get into a silly argument about his buddy's love life with his fiancée so he changed tact. "So how much more needs to be done for the wedding?"
Trixie sighed, "Well, it looks like everything's in place. I've been in touch with Natalie, she's President Gabriele's personal secretary, on a daily basis and she's arranged for the caterer and the flowers. Because the girls' gowns are going to be multi-colored, I decided on a mixture of spring flowers to match the gowns. Do you have all your ushers picked?"
"Uh-huh. Sparky's the best man, of course, then Racer X and then I thought Spritle could be an usher too. I mean he's almost twelve and he seems to be growing up a bit."
"But I thought he hated the fuss with the wedding. He certainly acts that way when I'm with your mom and we're talking about the wedding."
"Yeah, but it's a smokescreen, believe me. I asked him and you should've seen his eyes light up. I never told you this, Trix, but when we started getting serious about each other Spritle asked me if you and I would get married one day. He's really crazy about you." Speed informed Trixie as he ran the back of his hand along her cheek back and forth in a slow caress.
"Really?" she said softly. "He was always fighting me and at times I thought he was jealous of your attention to me."
"He was just a kid at the time, sweetheart. But I recall a time when we were all trying to help Pops get the Mach 5 ready for the Alpine Race and I told you to get some rest. You dozed off and Spritle curled up right next to you. I was busy working on the car but when I saw that, I swear it was the sweetest thing, it touched my heart and I never forgot it. It showed me that you were as much a part of my family as any of us. And so …" he finished. "it's only natural that we get married."
"Yeah," Trixie agreed. "We've come full circle." They leaned into each other for a soft lingering kiss as the advancing sunset flooded them in gold and orange light. As they drew slowly apart, Trixie looked into Speed's warmly glowing blue orbs gazing lovingly at her.
"Speed?"
"Uh-huh."
"I was thinking. I'd really like it if we could say our own vows to each other. After we say the traditional ones, kind of to finish the ceremony," Trixie asked shyly, her eyes downcast.
Speed continued studying her as her request burrowed itself into his mind. He felt a twinge of dismay because writing was not one of his fortes and to express his feelings in the written word scared him like nothing else. "W-well, baby. It's a groovy idea but I don't know," he stammered looking discomforted.
Trixie became concerned by his reticence. "Why, Speed?"
Speed sighed as he stared ahead at the beautiful colors of the sunset reflecting in the lake's mirror surface. "I don't know if I can write the right words to express my feelings to you that won't sound corny or make you laugh," he said in a low voice suddenly very shy.
Trixie's eyes widened in amazement. "Oh, Speed." She reached and ran her hand down his cheek and took his chin in her hand to turn his head to face her. "Anything you write will be precious to me. Know why? Because," she paused for effect and pointed to his chest, "it'll come from your heart."
Speed's eyes became luminous sapphire pools radiating love like rays from the summer sun. "I love you so much, baby," he murmured as he pulled her to him and with his other hand brought her mouth to his. Her words inflamed him as he had never been and his mouth slowly, tenderly expressed is heart as the sun sank lower behind the trees and shadows of evening advanced.
The next week was filled with preparation both for the race and the wedding. Trixie was actually the busiest, her job as PR director for Pops Motors and the Go Team keeping her hopping, with setting up publicity shoots, interviews, and responding to invitations to press junkets in Mont Royale. She was also in constant touch with Natalie Mirabeau, the private secretary for President Gabriele to fine tune the arrangements for the wedding and preparing for her spotting duties for the Grand Prix. Speed was getting worried that she was driving herself to exhaustion and tried to approach her about it one day at the track.
He pulled the Mach 5 up to Sparky who had the stopwatch in his hand and after doffing gloves and helmet vaulted over the side of his car ignoring his mechanic who had begun to relay his readings on the Mach 5's performance.
"The setup for the 5's outtasight, pal," Sparky began but Speed had already exited and made his way to the landing blue helicopter. Sparky sighed as he shook his head.
Speed drew up to the craft as the propellers were slowing and the engine cut off. He opened the hatch and offered his hand to assist Trixie out. He grasped her waist and helped her down, keeping his hands there as he leaned in and nuzzled her neck, slowly bringing his lips in contact with hers.
After a short time Trixie drew back and gently pushed him away. "I'm sorry, sweetie but I don't have time. I've got tons to get done, you understand, don't you?"
Speed sighed disappointed and a bit annoyed, "I'm trying to, Trixie, I really am. Do you realize that this is the first time in days we've had alone together? And we're not as alone as I'd like to be, either."
Trixie sighed and laid a placating hand on his chest. "I know and I'm sorry. But with the race and our wedding both next weekend, I'm really swamped. Plus I have to go over the final details for the wedding with your mother, without her help I'd be lost."
Speed grunted, "Well, with everything goin' on I'm beginning to feel a bit neglected. I haven't been able to spend time with you alone now for about over a week."
She studied the perturbed expression on her fiancé's face. "Speed," Trixie said as if she were explaining to a child. "You have to realize that pulling everything together in two months to assure that our wedding is beautiful has been like climbing Mount Everest. In addition to that, I've had to do my job and get ready to spot for you. It takes everything out of me."
"Yeah I see," he admitted grudgingly. He examined her closely and with concern. "Have you eaten at all today?"
She shrugged, "I grabbed something on the run. I just don't have the time."
Alarmed, Speed's eyes shot up and his visage became set with a stubborn tilt. "That settles it, c'mon we're gonna go get something to eat." Before she could lodge a protest, he grabbed her elbow and began leading her to the Mach 5 but their progress was cut short by Trixie's assistant, Pete Parks.
He ran up to them, out of breath. "Trixie, I'm glad I found you. The IRC wants to speak with you concerning some rule changes for the Grand Prix. They want you to call back ASAP."
Speed said crisply, "Sorry Pete, but Trixie hasn't eaten yet and she's goin' to lunch with me." He continued to guide her to the waiting car but she withdrew her arm.
She said apologetically, "I'm sorry, Speed but I've been waiting for this call. I have to go and make it so you go ahead." She planted a quick peck on him and took off with Pete in tow.
Speed watched with growing resentment as Pete assisted Trixie into his car and they both took off to the factory. Sparky came over and addressed his friend.
"Tough luck there, pal. I guess there's no rest for the weary," Sparky sympathized but he was taken aback by the look in Speed's eyes of cold fury.
"So why does she need HIM to go with her to return a phone call," he growled, incensed.
Sparky patted him on the shoulder. "Hey man, take it easy. You don't have anything worry about with Pete, he just works with her, don't jump to conclusions."
Speed took a deep breath and his anger dissipated. "Yeah, I know, Spark. But for the love of Mike he gets to see my girl more than I do lately and it's getting to me." He folded his arms across his chest and stared off into the distance, brooding.
Sparky said reassuringly, "Yeah but in about a week you'll be seeing her everyday and if I might add, every night. You'll wake up in the morning and there she'll be, right next to you."
Speed pondered his friend's words and then acquiesced with a sigh, "Yeah, you're right. I'm just pissed and making a mountain out of a molehill. And I'm starved."
"Well, then let me buy you some lunch. C'mon." Sparky placed an arm about Speed's shoulders as they both headed toward the Mach 5.
Later that afternoon, after practice Speed made his way to Trixie's office to talk to her. After having lunch with Sparky, Speed got behind the wheel of the Mach 5 and as he was doing his laps he mulled over what he and Sparky discussed at lunch and realized that all his feelings were a combination of pre-wedding jitters, pre-race concerns and missing Rex. He also realized that Trixie was under way too much pressure, she had an overflowing plate and he intended to lighten the load somehow. He knocked on her office door and walked in.
"Hiya, baby. Can I talk to you?'
Trixie looked up from what she was doing and gave him a dazzling welcome smile. "Oh Speed, I'm so glad you're here." She jumped up and rushed over to him from behind her desk.
"I wanted to apologize to you for the way I've been acting," they both said in unison. They looked at each other, blinking in amazement and then both burst into laughter and then embraced.
Trixie drew her head back, "Am I forgiven?"
"Done. Am I forgiven?" Speed's blue eyes twinkled.
"Uh-huh. So," she said pulling him into a chair and then sitting in his lap. "Anything else I can do for you?" she asked with a seductive gleam in her green eyes.
Speed sighed and answered, "With you looking at me that way lots, but unfortunately Pops sent me here to get the information from the IRC when they talked to you before. So what new rules have they come up with for the Grand Prix?"
"Well, they want to make sure the field is more even, competitive but even."
"So what else, that's not exactly new."
"There's now a rule that states that we can't fly lower than 2000 feet to spot. Apparently, some teams have been doing that and other teams have leveled complaints," Trixie informed him.
"You've never flown lower than 2000 feet have you?" Speed inquired.
Trixie regarded him sheepishly. "Sometimes, but it was usually when you were way, way out in front. But that's out now and it's going to hamper things somewhat 'cause I won't be able to see some things closer."
"Hmmm. They give you any idea who put up such a fuss," Speed wanted to know.
"Nope. Just that some teams got together and complained that other teams have had an unfair advantage. So IRC is trying to level the playing field." Trixie said laconically.
Speed nodded then began, "Listen, Trix, another reason I came to talk to you was that I'm kind of worried about you. You've been going at warp speed lately and I'm concerned."
Trixie brushed it off. "I'm fine, Speed. There's just so much to get done and I have to do it." She made to get off his lap but he tightened his arms on her keeping her from going anywhere.
"Well, Pops and I had a talk and we both agree. We're hiring someone else to fly the helicopter and spot for the race. You've got too much to do before the wedding," Speed announced definitely.
"But it's my helicopter."
"We decided that it's best for everyone to get another pilot."
Trixie eyed him askance, her previous smile gone. "Let me up please," she said icily.
Perplexed by her sudden coolness Speed did as he was asked. She got up and whirled around, her eyes boring into his, "So you both have lost faith in me." She then turned away, tears threatening to spill.
Speed inwardly cursed as he got to his feet and clumsily grasped Trixie's shoulders. She nudged his hands away and he said, "It's not that, sweetheart, it's that we both think that you have too much to do. Look at you, Trixie you're worn to a frazzle." He grasped her shoulders and gazed into her face. "Have you eaten at all today? That's why I wanted to take you out to lunch, so you could have a decent meal."
Trixie looked at Speed, teary-eyed and the dark circles under her eyes disturbed him. "I-I," she stammered but he laid a finger on her mouth.
"Shhh. It's okay, don't cry, baby," Speed said soothingly. "Of course we haven't lost faith in you. We just thought that you'd be overloaded with the race the day before our wedding. But if you think you can handle both, then okay. I'll tell Pops to forget it." He wiped the tears from her eyes with his fingertips.
Trixie looked at him hesitantly. "You mean it?"
"Sure, you bet I do. I had no idea it was so important to you," Speed replied gently.
"Oh Speed helping you win has always been important to me. I can't think of myself missing even one race you're in, even if it is the day before our wedding," Trixie said vehemently.
"Okay, okay, you win. But how're you gonna get the chopper over to Mont Royale?" Speed wanted to know as he released her and leaned on the desk with his arms crossed.
Trixie went behind the desk to grab some papers. "I plan to leave the day after tomorrow and fly the helicopter over to Mont Royale. I can refuel on one of the transatlantic tankers and be there by the next day."
"By yourself?" Speed said incredulously. He shook his head energetically. "Uh-uh, no way, baby. Sorry but you've got a snowball's chance in hell of me letting you fly all that distance alone."
"But, Speed--"
"No ifs, ands, or buts about it. You are not flying that helicopter across the Atlantic Ocean alone, and that's final," he stated adamantly.
"Are you dictating to me, Speed Racer?" Trixie inquired sweetly with a withering glare.
"Since I am about to become your husband I feel it's my duty and privilege to do everything in my power to see to it that you don't break your pretty little neck," Speed said eyeing her calmly.
"And what makes you think I'd do that?"
"Simple. Helicopters are not aircraft that are made to travel long distances. And you can't fly high enough to pick up the Jet Stream. Suppose something happens and you're over the water with no land in sight. Uh-UH no ever-lovin' way, honey. I'm not gonna become a widower before my wedding."
"B-but, Speed--" she tried.
"No buts, Trixie. I said it's final. Find some other way to get the chopper over there."
Trixie sighed as she gazed upon the picture of her intended. Speed was leaning on her desk, arms crossed, his eyes were closed and he looked as immovable as Mount Rushmore. She realized that he had completely dug his heels in and when he did that, watch out it was like talking to a wall. She opened her mouth to say something but the buzzing of the phone interrupted their impasse.
Trixie went to answer it while Speed said to himself, "Saved by the bell." He didn't know how long he would be able to stand his ground. Although he had closed his eyes he could tell by the sound of her voice she was going to plead with him, her eyes wide and beseeching and making his heart and resolve melt like ice in the sun, like they always did. Then a portion of Trixie's phone conversation caught Speed's attention.
"Okay, Natalie. You're sure His Excellency won't mind, I really need to use one of his helicopters for the race. Uh-huh, then I'll fly over with Speed and I'll see you in a few days. Thanks and bye." She hung up the phone then went up to Speed and placed her hand ever so gently on his crossed arms. "Speed," she purred.
Speed opened his eyes and regarded her warily. "Uh-huh?"
"That was President Gabriele's secretary, Natalie. I asked her if I could use one of the military's helicopters. She said no, but His Excellency has a private helicopter and it's at our disposal," Trixie informed him as she wrapped her slim arms around his neck. "So problem solved."
Speed unfolded his arms and slid them about his fiancée's tiny waist. "You understand why I had to put my foot down, don't ya, baby?" he asked with his eyes warm and drawing her in. "If I had let you do what you were gonna do and something happened, I'd never forgive myself."
"I know," Trixie said demurely, her head down. "And I love you."
Speed crushed her to him in a tight hug. "I love you, too. So, so much," he whispered, his voice hoarse with emotion.
The commonwealth of Mont Royale was a tiny independent principality located just to the north of the French Rivera making it a favorite place for jet setters to hang out. President Rudolph Gabriele was a man in his middle forties with a handsome swarthy complexion, bright golden eyes, and a physique that belied his years. He was a widower, having lost his wife some years before in childbirth as she gave birth to a stillborn son. He never remarried but instead dedicated his life to serving his constituency to very best of his abilities which made him well beloved by the people in Mont Royale.
The official limousines of the President crept sedately to the palace residence and came to a halt just at the door. A slim elegant thirtyish woman with auburn hair pulled back in a bun with wispy tendrils escaping and framing a sculpted face smiled a warm smile of welcome as the chauffeurs opened the doors and the Go Team climbed out. She addressed Speed and Trixie, who was right beside him.
"Speed and Trixie. Welcome to Mont Royale. I am Natalie Mirabeau, secretary to President Gabriele." She proffered a neatly manicured hand, which Speed shook first then Trixie. "Trixie, it's especially nice to meet you, after having spoken to you so many times. So how is the happy bride-to-be?"
"Nervous," Trixie replied truthfully as Speed looped a comforting arm around her shoulders.
With the wedding only four days away she was absolutely a bundle of nerves and Speed wasn't much different. The two of them were on edge for similar and different reasons. For Trixie it was the approach of her wedding and hoping that the arrangements were done properly to ensure a beautiful day. For Speed, however his impending nuptials were serving to fill him with a maelstrom of mixed emotions, joy, trepidation, and regret, regret that his big brother, Rex, would not be there. And of course, there was the race. But knowing how emotional Trixie had been in the last few days—she had even burst into tears twice on the plane ride over for no apparent reason—he kept his fears to himself as he comforted her.
Natalie smiled at the couple as the rest of the party, Pops, Mom, Spritle, Sparky, and the three bridesmaids all joined them. "Well, allow me to help you get settled." She rang a bell and several attendants came out and headed to the limousines to get the luggage. She smiled graciously to the group. "If you will follow me, I will show you to your quarters. President Gabriele insisted that I make you all feel at home." She turned and headed into the palace with the group following.
Once inside they all couldn't help but marvel at the grandeur of the dwelling. It was lavishly decorated in the style of Louis XIV, with ornate objets de arte and paintings adorning the walls. The furniture was provincial and elegant.
"Oh how lovely," Mom Racer commented in awe as she scanned the foyer and mounted the curving staircase to head to their rooms. Natalie stopped at a section closed off by double doors opened them and led the group into a hallway with several doors.
"You all shall be staying in the west wing. Mr. & Mrs. Racer, this is your room." She indicated toward a carved door, which opened into a room of great beauty with a large king sized bed. She then guided the rest of the group to the other doors. "The young men will all have rooms on the right of the hall, the young ladies to the left." She went down the hall and assigned the rooms to each individual, and as it turned out Speed and Trixie's rooms were adjacent to each other.
The attendants were coming into the hallway, bearing the bags and baggage, including the girls' gowns and the boys' tuxedoes. Natalie directed them to bring the luggage for each individual to each of their assigned rooms then turned to the group.
"Well, everyone please feel free to relax and get settled. There are cold drinks and fruit waiting in your rooms for your enjoyment. And if you need anything else, please don't hesitate to call. Trixie, later I'd like to go over the seating plan for the reception." She eyed Trixie matter-of-factly.
"Okay, Natalie. I just want to catch my breath for a few minutes, then I have to meet with the pilot at the heliport to see the helicopter and get acclimated with it." Trixie answered.
Speed watched Trixie with concern to see if she was showing signs of being overstressed but she appeared calm just determined. She and the girls headed toward their rooms.
"Very well then. I'll be in my office if you need me. Enjoy your stay." She turned and exited, leaving the group in the hall in front of their rooms.
Pops addressed the group. "Well, I'm gonna relax a bit. Speed, you and Sparky ought to head out and check the airfield for the transport plane to see about getting the Mach 5," he ordered.
"Sure, Pops. But I want to get settled first," Speed insisted.
"Yeah me too," Sparky piped up. "Uh Speed, got a minute? I need to talk to you about something."
"Sure, Spark." He turned and addressed Trixie. "Are you gonna be okay, sweetheart?"
"Uh-huh. You just go and take care of the Mach 5. When you get back we can go over the course in the president's helicopter."
"Okay, but don't overdo it. See ya later, I love you." Speed kissed her gently and then went into his room with Sparky behind him. He took a seat on the large bed. "Okay, what's up."
"Sparky grinned, "I got all the plans for your bachelor party, pal. The guys are all anxious to give you a great big blowout for your last night of freedom."
Speed eyed his best friend dubiously. "What exactly do ya have planned?"
Sparky shook out a list. "Boy, I'm glad you asked that, pal. First, we're gonna tie on a major feed bag courtesy of one of the classiest restaurants here, Le Bon Mont and then retire to their official party room for the festivities and dessert." Sparky smirked slyly.
Sparky, what's goin' on, huh?" Speed asked suspiciously. "Don't forget the race is the next day."
"I didn't. Don't worry, it won't be too wild, we'll be ready to race the next day."
Speed shook his head in wonder. "If I knew it was going to be like this, I would've asked Trixie to elope."
Ahhh, c'mon Speed lighten up," his best friend admonished. "This is gonna be your bachelor party. It's not going to be a frathouse melee but it ain't gonna be a church social either." Sparky chortled with glee and rubbed his hands together.
Speed groaned, "Why do I get the feeling like I'm headed to a firing squad?"
In her room, Trixie, Janine, Lilly and Calcia were all shaking out the beautiful champagne ivory colored wedding gown, in jacquard with seed pearls and crystal beaded lace. The cathedral train was intricately embroidered with crystal beads, like the trim of the bodice and the skirt.
"Ohh Trixie, every time I see it I'm more in love with it, it's absolutely exquisite," breathed Calcia, her jade eyes wide with admiration.
"Oh yes," Lilly echoed. "It's an absolute dream. Wait till Speed sees you walk down the aisle in that!"
Trixie nodded as she gently fingered the beautiful garment, a dreamy expression on her pretty face. "Oh I know. I can't believe I'm going to be wearing this gorgeous gown in just three days and saying 'I do' to the man I love."
Janine smiled fondly at her friend. "You're going to be a beautiful bride, Trixie. You and Speed are going to be so happy, I know it. He just worships you, Sparky's told me how he's always talking about you."
Lilly and Calcia nodded in agreement. "I knew the day I met you two that you were inseparable," Lilly stated. "Remember when we pulled him out of the lake and I tried to keep him warm while you radioed for help? You pulled me away to take hold of him and when he came to and saw you, the look on his face said it all. I knew he was in love with you."
Calcia nodded and added, "And when I thought I was Cleopatra in the desert and Splint Femur tried to have you burned alive? Speed went to get the Statue of Isis and when he came back in time to save you, as exhausted as he was I saw how happy he was to see you alive. It was so obvious even then that he loved you."
Janine chimed in, "Because of you and Speed I have a career in racing. I'm not a racer of Speed's caliber but I'm good enough in the secondary circuit to win some races. He taught me so much and he was a gentleman, he never, ever was improper toward me. Then when we'd take a break he'd tell me all about you and how he couldn't do without you. It was so sweet to hear a guy go on and on about his girl, especially a guy like Speed."
Trixie smiled, thinking about Speed. "Uh-huh, he's pretty sweet. I'm very blessed to have him." She glanced at her watch and alarmed said, "Ohh, I have to go and check out the helicopter I'm gonna use to spot for the race." She scampered to the door and said as she left, "See you guys later."
The girls all exchanged glances and shrugged as they all separated and got to their rooms.
The next morning Trixie was at the helicopter pod, located off the east wing and over the multi-level garage with President Gabriele's pilot. He was explaining some of the fine points of the craft when Speed joined them. He and Trixie then entered the helicopter and she started the craft's engines and after the propellers were up to speed, it glided slowly up and away.
The young couple flew the length of the road course for the race, Speed making notes and directing Trixie along as the chopper hovered over various checkpoints. Soon they were through and she headed back to the palace.
"So what are you guys going to do at the bachelor party tonight? Go crazy?"
Speed snorted, "To tell you the truth, I have no idea what Sparky's got planned. But I'm sure he's got something memorable up his sleeve."
"Humph, I just bet! Well, you just remember that you're getting married, Speed Racer when those floozies throw themselves at you," Trixie sniffed disapprovingly.
Speed grinned engagingly at her. "Honey, believe me you have nothing to worry about. I'm not too jazzed about this party anyway," he assured her, squeezing her hand.
"Oh sure," she scoffed.
"No really, I'm not. I'm just going 'cause it's tradition. I really would rather blow it off," he answered as they were landing on the pod.
Trixie cut the motors and opened her hatch to alight to the tarmac and Speed followed suit. As he exited and joined his fiancée's side they were pleasantly surprised to be met by the President of Mont Royale.
"Speed, Trixie, how good it is to see you both. I trust that everything is satisfactory so far," President Gabriele said jovially, shaking Speed's hand.
"Everything's super, Your Excellency. And we'd like to thank you for your generosity toward us, you really have done so much, we're completely overwhelmed," Trixie stated with a smile.
Gabriele smiled back. "I'm pleased to have been able to do this." He brought the daily paper to show them. "Your wedding is front page news."
Speed and Trixie took the paper and skimmed the front page. The main headline said "Defending Formula 1 Champion to Wed After Grand Prix". Speed was amazed because right below his and Trixie's official engagement picture was the article announcing the re-inauguration of Gabriele as President. He felt a twinge of guilt at his wedding upstaging the inauguration of the commonwealth's own elected leader.
"Uh, it's very nice Your Excellency, but your inauguration should be first. After all, if it wasn't for your generosity our wedding would've had to have waited," Speed politely pointed out.
"Think nothing of it, my friend," Gabriele brushed off modestly.
Speed then came up with an idea. "Your Excellency, I would be honored if you would attend my bachelor party tonight. It's being held at Le Bon Mont."
Gabriele smiled warmly and replied, "It's been a long time since I've attended a bachelor party. I'll be there."
Speed grinned, "Great, it'll be at 8 PM. I'll look for you." He took Trixie's arm and the three of them headed for the exit.
At about 7:30 in his room, Speed was finishing tying his tie and donned his red dress sports jacket with the gold "G" emblazoned on the breast pocket. He was running a comb through his raven hair when there was a knock on the door.
"Come in."
Sparky entered, dressed in a dark blue sports jacket and pants with his ever-present red baseball cap. He strode over to where his buddy was grooming himself and commented, "You look gorgeous, pal, the guys will love you."
Speed snorted, "Yeah, well I like to be well groomed regardless of who's going to be at the party."
"Uh-huh," Sparky answered. He glanced at the desk in the corner and sauntered over casually to see an empty pad of paper and a pen. But what really caught his eye was the wastepaper basket on the side of the desk, it was filled to overflowing with balled up papers and several on the floor. "Whatcha doin' here, Speed, starting your own paper drive?"
Speed sighed and bent down to pick up the stragglers and put them in the basket. "If you must know, I was trying to write some vows down for the ceremony."
"You're putting me on," Sparky said incredulously.
"I wish," Speed said fervently. "It's Trixie's idea. She wants us to share our own words after we say the traditional ones. And I'm having a hell of a time trying to write something that doesn't sound like a double order of corn or that I'm a high school drop-out."
"Women," Sparky commiserated. "They really make things tough sometimes."
"Yeah," Speed agreed. He put the pad in the desk drawer and clapped his hand on Sparky's shoulder. "Well, let's split." They exited the room, closing the door.
Le Bon Mont was a trendy restaurant/nightclub that was a prime hot spot in Mont Royale. This night as with any other, the place was packed to overflowing with patrons of the jet set but the crowd also had the racers entered in the upcoming Grand Prix all of whom were waiting for the guest of honor, Speed Racer. It was like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, a definite party atmosphere.
The Mach 5 pulled into the packed parking lot and slid into a space. Sparky glanced about and gave a long low whistle.
"Man oh man, the joint is jumpin'. Looks like we're gonna have a blast," the Go Team mechanic crowed his eyes bright with anticipation. His manner became subdued when he spied his companion's dubious expression. "Hey, Speed, what gives? Why the long face?"
Speed sighed and glanced at his buddy. "I'm just thinking about Rex again. If things were different, he'd be here with me, celebrating my last night as a bachelor."
Sparky nodded, "You really miss him, don't you. And after all these years."
Speed answered, "He was always there for me as a kid, teaching me everything, how to fight, how to work on engines. He even talked to me about girls even though at the time I was the age where I thought girls were stupid."
"Yeah, remember those days? And now you're getting ready to get married. Life's strange, huh?"
Their introspection was interrupted by the Shooting Star purring up and parking right next to the Mach 5. Racer X extricated himself from the cockpit of the long, low yellow and black racer and strode up to his brother's sleek white vehicle.
"Hello, Speed, Sparky. Are you two waiting for something?" he inquired.
Sparky replied, "Nah, we're just talking. Ol' Speedy here's a bit leery about going in but he's just avoiding the inevitable." He vaulted over the side and joined the masked racer.
"No I'm not," Speed protested. "I'm just missing my big brother, Racer X. If things were different, he'd be here tonight."
"I'm sure he's with you in spirit, Speed." Racer X assured him.
Speed studied the tall enigmatic man in the mask. Even with a dark evening jacket and light slacks he bore an air of mystery but again there was something so comfortably familiar about him, the camaraderie that existed between them was so natural that it was eerie.
Sparky changed the subject. "Well, fellas, shall we go join the party? Our are we gonna stay out here all night and have deep soul-searching convos?"
Speed and Racer X shrugged. Speed hoisted himself over the side of the Mach 5 and planted his feet on the ground. "Okay guys. Let's split inside."
"Now you're talkin'. Let the games begin!" Sparky said announcer-style.
In the club, as soon as the trio entered, the maitre'd directed them into the private back room where the racers and their crews were having a rowdy good time. There was plenty of pitchers of beer around and a buffet table laden with all types of hearty foods to satisfy men's appetites.
Speed, Sparky, and Racer X stepped into the room. Loud Motown party music was playing and the crowd appeared to be feeling no pain, having been imbibing all along.
"So Spark," Speed began. "Whattya have planned?"
Sparky grinned, "It's a surprise, buddy." He picked up two empty beer mugs and clapped them together to quiet the room. "Hear ye, Hear ye! Can I get everyone's attention, please?" The room hushed to a low murmur. "Gentlemen we are gathered here tonight to see another of our rank exit the brotherhood of the single male to enter into the sacred institution of holy matrimony." A few "Aww's" and some "boos" were scattered across the room. "However, we all intend to give our esteemed colleague Speed Racer a send-off that will be a fond memory to him one night as he's washing the dinner dishes." Laughter rolled around the room as Speed grinned and waved.
"Thanks a lot, fellas!" Cheers and whistles greeted him.
The door opened and President Gabriele entered the room that was rocking with whoops and cheers. He approached Speed and said cheerfully, "Well, Speed, it seems like it's quite a party for you."
Speed smiled at the man. "So glad you could make it, Your Excellency. Please feel free to go and enjoy yourself."
Unknown to the group in a corner of the room, a darkly clad man sat huddled, sipping a beer quietly. His dark eyes however, scanned the smoky, noisy room like a lighthouse beacon. His eyes widened as he spotted what he was looking for but he remained unobtrusive, biding his time.
Sparky continued, "Men, we have some terrific food and drink here and then some entertainment on the way so please enjoy yourselves and don't forget to stop by and pay your last respects to ol' Speedy here on this, his last day of freedom. Have fun."
Speed admonished, "Geez, Sparky you're making it sound like I'm going the last mile to the slammer. I'm getting married for Pete's sake, not buried."
"Same thing in my opinion," Sparky stated as he poured three mugs full of beer and passed them to himself, Speed and Racer X. They took their seats at the head table and he addressed Speed, "Lighten up buddy and have some fun. This is all for you."
The party was in full swing as the music and especially the beer began flowing in earnest. Sparky had several racers get up and say a short speech of tribute to the groom-to-be, punctuated by toasts and chug-a-lugs in his honor. But Speed was there in body, pasting a smile on his face as he brooded and nursed his beer, his mind and spirit with Rex, wherever his older brother could be.
Racer X noticed Speed's reticence in the festivities and commented mildly. "You seem preoccupied, Speed. Are you having second thoughts about getting married? You are just 21, maybe you're not ready."
Speed shook his head. "No sir, Racer X, that's not it at all. I love Trixie with all my heart and I can't wait till she's my wife. It's just that--"
"You miss your older brother," Racer X finished for him.
"Uh-huh. He was my hero when I was a child, I followed him everywhere. And he never thought I was a drag, he always included me in everything he did. I really miss him and I wish he could be with me the day after tomorrow when I say I do."
Racer X pondered at what Speed said. It would be so easy to tell Speed the truth, and he knew after the initial shock had worn off Speed would be thrilled. And the rest of his family, especially Mom and Spritle would be glad. Pops was a question mark but Rex wasn't the angry man-child he was when he stormed away from his family so long ago so he was sure he could deal with Pops. But should he chance it now when the recovery of the Rubicon I was the most important thing and it was imperative his cover as Racer X was intact? He examined his younger brother carefully as he mentally weighed the pros and cons.
Slightly sloshed, Sparky got to his feet and banged the table to get the room to quiet down. "Okay, all you animals listen up! The time has come for what the French say is the pasty resistance, the highlight of the evening for our boy Speedy." He leered at Speed who still sober, blushed.
"C'mon Sparky, what're you up to?" he asked peevishly.
"Hey now buddy boy, cool it. I jus' wan' to get you ready for your 'dessert'." He chuckled drunkenly. "Okay, bring the cake out!"
A cart bearing a huge white and green cake was wheeled out from the double doors to the party room with everyone whistling and cheering. The cart was pushed through the throng until it reached the head table where Speed, Racer X, Sparky, and President Gabriele sat. Sparky stumbled over to the oversized confection.
"Gentlemen, we have here a cake with a special filling for our groom-to-be. So it's only fair that he be the first to get a piece, if you'll pardon the expression. So go ahead, Speedy, your dessert's ready!"
At that cue, the top of the cake flew off and out popped a beautiful titian-haired girl, scantily clad in an emerald green and black low cut teddy with sequins all over, black fishnet stockings, high heels, and long black satin gloves. Her full bosom was pushed up to the plunging sequin trimmed neckline until it threatened to overflow. She smiled and curtsied as she climbed to the top layer and blew kisses to the crowd of men showering her with cheers and wolf whistles.
"Now where's our groom-to-be?" she purred as she accepted the hands of two eager men who offered their help in getting her down. They gestured to the coal-haired good-looking young man in the red sports jacket sitting at the head table, staring into his half full beer mug. She sashayed over to Speed with a seductive smile.
"Now, such a long face at such a happy gathering! And such a handsome face to boot, let me try to put a smile on those full, firm lips of yours." She reached and gently caressed Speed's face as she drew her ample bosom close to his face, much to his dismay.
"Uhhh, miss, I'm sorry but could you step back," Speed said politely, trying not to stare at the girl's attributes.
The girl drew back, perturbed. "You've gotta be putting me on, sugar. This is your bachelor party and I'm here for you, don't get uptight, enjoy it." She took his face in her hands but he shrugged and pushed her away.
"Humph! Well, I certainly don't need a brick house to fall on me!" She straightened up and flounced over to a table of raucous drivers who called her over. She went and smiled sensuously at Flywheel Forrest, a driver with the Lightning Motors team and jumped into his lap.
Sparky looked at his buddy askance. "Man, what is bugging you? You never turned away from a pretty chick before. Trixie must've totally brainwashed you."
Speed grunted, sitting back with his arms crossed. "I'm just not interested, Sparky."
Racer X had noticed the blatant disinterest in the cake girl as well and became concerned. "Speed, you need to snap out of this. In two days you're going to be marrying the woman you love, you need to stop obsessing over what happened with Pops." Racer X's eyes widened as he realized his slip.
Oblivious, Sparky nodded. "He's right, Speed. Ya gotta lighten up."
The slip did not go unnoticed by Speed as he ignored Sparky and with a strange glow in his cobalt eyes he boldly asked, "Racer X, are you my brother Rex?"
He was about to answer but the man at the back of the room that sat so quietly in the corner chose that very moment to jump to his feet and took aim at the head table with a revolver, which he fired in the direction of President Gabriele.
Always alert to danger, both Speed and Racer X noted the movement in the back and saw the gun before the would be assassin fired the bullet. The two Racer men simultaneously leapt to their feet and tackled the president, knocking the stunned leader to the floor just as the bullet whizzed by. The room became chaotic as the racers all turned their attention to the rear corner and the burly form of Fuele Injector, the racer for the Belchfire Racing team had a smarmy looking man immobilized in a half Nelson. During the melee, someone had alerted the authorities and soon two police officers came in and took him into custody. As they hustled him out, a man of average stature watched the shaken president of Mont Royale with interest, his eyes bright with malice.
After answering questions for the police, Speed, Sparky, and President Gabriele headed back to the presidential palace. As both the limousine and the Mach 5 pulled up to the front façade of the mansion, all three men exited and ascended to enter the building. They all looked a bit worse for wear.
Once inside, the three exhausted men climbed the stairs to the sleeping quarters. The president stopped and shook Speed's hand gratefully. "I owe my life to you, Speed. And to that masked man, if the two of you hadn't knocked me down, I'd have lost my life tonight." Speed shook his head, brushing the complement off.
"Think nothing of it, Your Excellency. Are you sure you're okay?" he asked in concern.
"Yes, I am. All I need is a good night's sleep. Good night, gentlemen." The president turned and headed through the double doors to his private chambers.
Speed and Sparky headed down the dimly lit hallway to their respective rooms. Once there, Sparky turned to his friend and yawned.
"Well, gotta hit the sack. Race starts at noon so I gotta be at the 5 bright and early."
"Yeah, me too," Speed said absently. He glanced at the light still showing under Trixie's door and made a decision. "See ya in the morning, Spark."
"Okay, 'night Speed." Sparky disappeared behind his door leaving Speed alone in the hall. He rapped lightly on his fiancée's door.
"Trix? Hey Trixie, are you awake?"
The door muffled her voice. "Speed, is that you?"
"Yeah. Can I please come in, I need to talk to you," he whispered.
Trixie's voice was adamant. "Speed, the wedding's in just over a day. You know I can't see you before the ceremony."
Speed groaned, "Trixie, this is ridiculous. What about the race tomorrow, how're you gonna spot for me if I don't see you."
"I can still talk to you over the radio without seeing you, you know that, Speed."
"Look, baby, I really, really need to talk to you," Speed tried again.
Trixie sighed and looked around her room. Then she spotted a silk ornamental screen in the corner and got an idea. "Okay, Speed. Just give me a minute, okay?"
"Okay."
She took the screen and dragged it over so it was in front of the doorway of the bathroom. Once it was secure, she went and opened the door to let him, in and then dashed into the bathroom, behind the screen.
Speed came into her room and closed the door. "Thanks baby, I really need to talk about--," he began but all he saw was a blur as she scooted behind the screen. "Hey, what gives? Trixie, are you here?"
"I am here, Speed." she replied from behind the screen.
"Trixie, I'm really in no mood for games. Would you please come out and talk to me, for Pete's sake?" Speed asked, getting annoyed.
"Look, Speed you either talk to me this way or leave. I have no intention of letting you see me before the ceremony," Trixie answered firmly.
Speed sighed heavily, "Okay, okay! Have it your way." He got up and paced restlessly. "I'm sure you'd like to hear about the bachelor party."
"Actually, I really don't," Trixie said a tad irritated. "I'd rather not hear how some strumpet jumped out of a cake and spent the evening in your arms."
"Trixie, that didn't happen, believe me."
"You didn't have a girl come out of a cake?"
"Well, yeah but she didn't spend the evening in my arms. As a matter of fact, I pushed her away. But Racer X was there and he said something really funny that has me bugged."
"What'd he say?" Trixie asked curiously.
Speed stopped pacing and stopped right before the screen. "He mentioned about what happened with Pops. Using those exact words and I swear, baby, he sounded just like Rex. Something about the way he said 'Pops' just rang a bell in me."
"Oh Speed, are you sure you're not just imagining it? Isn't this just wishful thinking?" Trixie suggested gently.
Speed whirled away, incensed, "I'm not imagining it, Trixie! Remember the Trick Race and how Racer X knocked me out when the Car Acrobatic Team captured us? He left his mask on the ground by me and when I came to I found it. I figured it out then but I never said anything to anyone." He slammed his fist in his palm and he said, "I may be crazy, Trixie but I know Racer X is my brother Rex!"
Trixie was silent as she sensed Speed's distress. She ached to go to him and take him in her arms but she knew she couldn't. Instead she reached around the screen with her hand. "Oh, Speed."
Speed was frustrated by having to talk to the woman he loved from behind a screen. He was about to turn and leave when he heard Trixie's sweet voice speak his name then saw her hand peeking out from around the screen. With a wry grin, he took her hand in both of his.
She began, "You aren't crazy, you are one of the sweetest, most level-headed men I have ever known and the man who will be my husband. And Rex was your older brother who you adored, of course you have to believe that after all these years that he's close to being found. So if you believe, Speed, I believe."
Speed felt his heart fill with such profound love for his future wife that he felt it could burst. "Thank you again for being here for me. I love you, baby." He pulled on her hand and coaxed, "You really won't come out so I can thank you in a better way?"
"Speed," she admonished.
"Okay. But ya can't blame a guy for tryin'. So I'll just have to thank you properly on our wedding night."
"Is that a promise?" she inquired coyly.
"Uh-huh. And you know I always keep my promises." He leaned down to kiss her hand and his lips sent chills up her arm and down her spine.
Several minutes later, Speed left Trixie's room and entered his own. He sighed as he tried to diffuse the heat in his body caused by his chaste encounter with his fiancée. He leaned against the closed door and closed his eyes, remembering their last passionate embrace, the sweetness of her mouth as he drank so very deeply of her, his heart pounding and his loins on fire. No girl had ever brought that kind of response out in his body, only Trixie.
Fantasy over, Speed reached and flipped the light switch on and was startled by the broad dark suited form of Inspector Detector sitting in a chair by the French doors leading to a terrace. Any residual heat dissipated and he approached the waiting officer. "Inspector Detector?"
The tall, muscular Interpol officer got to his feet. "I came here to wait for you after I spoke with His Excellency. The Mont Royale police sent me here to ask him some questions and they told me that your timely intervention saved his life."
"Uh-huh. Both Racer X and I pushed His Excellency down before the gun went off," Speed informed him.
Inspector Detector regarded Speed carefully. "That actually isn't the reason for my wanting to talk to you. I really didn't know you were staying here until I read the papers and then when Mont Royale's police called me about the assassination attempt and said you had thwarted the culprit, I decided to drop in on you."
Speed sat on his bed, his eyes never leaving Detector's bearded visage. "Go ahead, Inspector, I'm listening."
Detector took a deep breath. "Speed, I'm sure you've heard that the Rubicon I has been stolen."
Speed nodded, "Yeah, it was lifted about three months ago. It was considered the perfect crime 'cause there were no suspects and few clues."
Detector nodded, "Yes, it seemed to disappear. But our operatives at Interpol and the undercover operatives of IPF have strong reason to believe that the gem is somewhere here in Mont Royale and it will be smuggled across the border during the Grand Prix tomorrow. I'm asking you, Speed if you can assist in keeping that from happening."
"Sure, Inspector I'll do all I can to help but how are you sure that this will happen during the race?" Speed wanted to know.
"The Elite Racing Team is actually an offshoot of the Hidden International Spies Syndicate. Their driver, Pace Jordan is entered in the race, isn't he?"
"Yeah."
Detector went on, "We believe that he's going to be the runner to get the gem over the border. The race course goes over the border briefly then turns back into the commonwealth so it makes sense."
Speed pondered the words spoken. "Uh-huh. Well, I'll do my best to stop him, Inspector." They both got to their feet to shake hands.
Detector grinned, "Thanks, Speed. I knew I could count on you."
Speed grinned back and then addressed the Interpol officer. "Inspector, I hope you plan to be here for my wedding. It's the day after tomorrow you know," he said shyly.
Detector's grin widened. "Speed, my friend, I wouldn't miss it. I'll be there with bells on."
TO BE CONTINUED---IT'S RACE DAY AND BOTH SPEED AND RACER X ARE TRYING TO WIN THE GRAND PRIX AND RECOVER THE RUBICON I
NEXT---THE RACE FOR THE ICE
Note to my readers: Thank you for reading my work but I want to say just because I choose not to accept anonymous reviews for my own reasons does not mean that I dislike reviews. If you are signed in I would appreciate a review. I just have a low tolerance for mindless scribbles of meanness that have no constructively critical value to them. They waste my time and the Web's bandwidth. Constructive criticism however is welcome because it only serves to make me a better writer. Thank you again for reading.