Lightning walked through the pit garages to find his. The large number 95 is up above the door. He sighed. Curious if the Bolt was in there or not already. Suddenly a hand on his shoulder, he turned to see Sally. He smiled. She smiled back, "YOu sure about this?" She asked. Lightning snickered, "No. But..." He frowned. Sally wasn't sure about this decision of hos either. "Stickers, you can still race next week. Get back in the season. You haven't told anyone anything yet. I don't want you regretting this.." "Oh, I'll regret it but I think it's best. I.. There is something wrong with me. I don't want to quit but I don't even feel the drive. It's leaving me. It's like I can feel the passion being drained out of me and all I can think about is that shooter, that I can't talk to Doc and that." He paused as he stared at her. "I almost lost you. I can't concentrate on driving like this and the pills have me so fucked up right now. I feel dysfunctional. Like my brain can't stay on track. I see the 95 above then think of the Bolt which makes me think of the wheels. Whether or not they are tight or not then I think of where they came from, which leads my mind into some crazy thing about what if the allinol guys are behind something else and I'm"-"You are paranoid. Calm down. If you think this is best, okay. Take the season off. I'm standing with you when you return." "Will you be?" LIghtning asked. Sally raised a brow. "Of course, Stickers! Why would you ask me that?" "You just told me last week that you wanted me to retire. You're not going to be pushing me to stay off the track next season, are you?" Sally sighed and had realized how wrong that was of her. "I was just angry and afraid of losing you last week. I said a lot of things that I didn't mean. I'm sorry. I should have addressed this sooner. Lightning, I will never ask you to quit racing. It's who you are. I'll even push you onto the track next season. I can help keep you in shape for the time you are staying home." She smiled. LIghtning snickered. Glad to hear that but still worried she would change her mind when it came time for him to return.
"LIGHTNING!" MIranda shouted as she approached the couple. LIghtning and Sally turned and greeted the agent. "What are you doing here, Miranda?" Asked Sally. Miranda swatted the air, "I had to see how my favorite racer was doing. How are you, stud?" LIghtning sighed, "I'm.. Alright. I need to talk to you about something." "IS it bad? About the drug approval? If so, I already sent in a request to look into it. Maybe we can find something else to help you that you can take while driving out there." "NO, don't worry about it. I wanted to talk to you about that. Driving." "Yeah?" "Yeah, uh.. Well. I've thought about it this last week and.. I'm not ready to come back." "I know." "NO, I mean.. At all. For the season." Further explained the racer. Miranda stared at him in disbelief. Silent. Sally leaned over to Lightning and muttered, "I think you broke her..." LIghtning waved his hand in front of Miranda's face. Nothing. "Um.. MIranda?" He questioned. Miranda blinked a few times before coming back, "YOu want to retire!?" She shouted! This grabbed a few eyes of other racers. Most shocked. Lightning blushed as he faked a smile, "No, no, no. Just... Take the season off.." Miranda slapped her forehead. "Lightning, this is a career-killing move. You know that, right? This is the kind of thing that will either weaken you as a racer and make you lose your edge or your sponsor can find another driver." She reminded.
Lightning shook his head, "Rusteze won't do that to me. And I plan on continuing training. Doc has taught me everything I need to do when off track. I'll just do as I do in the off-season." Miranda shook her head and asked, "And what about me? What am I supposed to do?" "I don't mind entertaining the fans still. You can still have the job. Just fewer meets." "This is a very bad idea, Lightning. I mean, I know it's been a tough year for you, but.. You should be coming back harder than ever after what happened! Not giving up!" Lightning sighed as he grew frustrated. Beginning to wonder if he was making the right choice. MIranda then asked, "Have you told anyone officially yet?" Lightning shook his head, "NO. Just you and Sally." "GOOD! Don't tell anyone else until you and I way the good and the bad, alright? I'll get running numbers." She ordered as she scurried off. Sally mutters, "She does not make your decisions. You want the year off, take it. YOu are Lightning McQueen and can make a great come back next season." "Yeah.. I know.." Lightning replied softly. But he was wondering if he really could or not?...
Lightning walked up to the 95 pits to find the team, Rusteze, and Tiffany getting ready for practice and qualifications. Lightning put on his sunglasses as the sun was giving him a headache. "Hey, Tiff." He shouted so she could hear. Tiffany smiled as she looked over. "LIghtning!" She exclaimed and ran up and hugged him. "Ow!" LIghtning snapped as it hurt. Tiffany pulled away apologizing, "SORRY! Sorry, I forgot! OH my gosh.. I can't thank you enough for this opportunity. Driving the Bolt is going to be amazing." Lightning nodded, straightening up his shirt. "Yeah, just.. Take it easy and keep her off the wall." "You got it." She said with a wink. A rookie driving the bolt. Lightning cringed with the thought but it wasn't a thought. It was happening. Rusty walked up and asked, "How are you doing, kid?" Lightning smiled, "Better than the last time you saw me. Sorry about making such a fuss about not racing." "Awe, no worries, kid. I understand. Eager to get back behind the wheel." He chuckled. LIghtning just nodded with an uneasy expression. "Where's the coach?" he asked. Rusty raised a brow and asked, "YOu fired him. Don't you remember that?" LIghtning did and didn't. Shit. His memory was fucked up. "Oh.. RIght.." "Yeah, so we had to scramble to find one for Tiffany." "Did you find one?" "Sure did. His name is Bruce. My brother just calls him beefcake." "Beefcake?" Lightning questioned.
Rusty laughed, "Yeah, I know. My brother, the wet mop. Anyway, Bruce is great and he'll work well with you once your back. He use to coach in the truck series, so he's got creditable experience." "Well, that's good. Tiffany will need that out there." RUsty just agreed with slow nodding. Dusty walked up and gently patted Lightning on the back as he asked, "Ready to get back out there champ?" LIghtning awkwardly smiled replying, "Awe, yeah.." DUsty raised a brow and asked, "WHat's up with your face?" "What face?" "That face." Rusty pointed out. DUsty nodded adding, "Never saw that face on you when talking about racing." "MY brother is right. You okay, kid?" Asked RUsty. Lightning nodded assuring, "I'm fine. Just tired." Rusty and Dusty glanced at each other. But they worked long enough with Lightning to know that something was off in the champion. "Need to talk?..." Dusty asked softly. Lightning sighed with a frown, "Actually.. Yeah.." Rusty and Dusty frowned. Fearing they were going to hear the retirement talk in the kid. They never thought he'd be ready for that. They weren't even ready for that. What would happen to Rusteze? The team? RUsty nodded and motioned for them all to follow as he said, "Come on. Best we speak privately in the tent." SO Rusty, Dusty, Sally, and Lightning went on to talk...
Lightning sat down in one of the chair rows with Sally next to him. RUsty sitting across and Dusty standing there. "So what's going on, kid?" Asked RUsty. LIghtning glanced at Sally who gave him a supportive nod. So with a sigh, Lightning began. "I want to make it clear that this has nothing to do with you guys. You two and Rusteze is the best sponsor I've ever had. And I am not quitting on you guys. But.. I've.. I've been thinking about taking the rest of the season off. Just this season and then I'll be back for the twenty-thirteen season, I swear." Rusty smiled with relief, "Oh good." Dusty nodded with a chuckle, "We thought you were going to tell us you wanted to retire!" LIghtning snickered, "Never. I love you guys too much. But.. WHat are your thoughts on that? MIranda doesn't think I should but.." "I don't care what anyone but you say." Said, Dusty. Rusty agreed, "Yep. If you want a break, you got it." LIghtning raised a brow asking, "And you guys are okay with this? Rusteze won't take too hard of a hit from this?" Rusty shrugged, "Rusteze will be fine. Might lose popularity by the end of the season but we'll be fine." "YOu do you." Added Dusty. Lightning smiled. Glad that his sponsor was so forgiving. Rusty continues, "And if you decide you can come back sooner, we'll have the Bolt in the garage and ready for ya!" Dusty asked, "So when will you make the announcement?" LIghtning sighed, "Not sure. I haven't planned a speech yet." Rusty laughed, "Just say it. No need to sugarcoat it. The fans should understand." Lightning nodded. So he would do it today. After Tiffany's race...
Bobby took first, Cal third, and Gorvette in second. Tiffany ran up to where Lightning was on the side of the lines and asked, "How did I do? Did I do alright?" LIghtning chuckled answering, "YOu did well. Next to last is nothing to be too ashamed of." He assured. Tiffany glared. He sounded sarcastic. Rusty walked up to Lightning and said, "I told the stage rep that you needed a moment up there. The President wanted you to say something about improving track safety as well." Lightning raised a brow, "What about it?" Rusty shrugged. LIghtning sighed. Nice. The President was so good at communicating. Lightning rolled his eyes and began taking the steps up the stage where he shook hands with Cal, Gorvette, and Bobby. Patting Bobby on the back before running up to the other side of the stage and standing next to one of the officials who spoke, "Now that was some race today." Fans cheering! " Now we have a special request from Lightning McQueen himself today. He wants to talk to YOU!" Pointing out to the crowd. Of course, fans cheered. Lightning just waved his hand at them all. The cameras were on him and the official handed the mic to Lightning. LIghtning smiled and asked, "How was that race today?" They cheered. "Did ya miss me?" He asked cunningly. They cheered. He glanced at Bobby who rolled his eyes. Cal shook his head with a laugh. Lightning snickered, "Let's give it up one more time for these three. They raced their hearts out today!" They all cheered.
Miranda ran up to Sally and asked, "WHat the hell is he doing up there?!" The President smiled as he walked up to Sally and Miranda and asked, "Is he announcing his come back?" Sally shook her head. Miranda lost it! "He better not announce he is quitting the season!" The President spit out his coffee all over the person in front of him! "WHAT! I thought he was going to talk about track safety!?" MIranda rolled her eyes. The President then yelled at security, "Get him down!"..
LIghtning did talk about track safety. "I won't bore you all with details of last weekend. But I assure you track safety is being reinvented. I feel safe as you should to. Security is doing better than ever now to keep you guys and our teams even safer than before. I trust my life to these guys. And.. I have got something to talk to you guys about. You all have been the best of fans." THey of course cheered to this, a few yelling about how they love Lightning. LIghtning smiled replying, "Love you to. So.. After considering"-The President suddenly ran up and took the mic from Lightning and interrupted, "After considering how last weekend went for Mr. McQueen, I think we should all give him a round of applause for his return today!" He laughed nervously. The crowd of fans and press cheered loudly and applaud the racer. Lightning glared at the President who then handed his mic to the nearest official and pulled Lightning off stage rather pushy-like.
Lightning quickly snapped, "What the heck was that for?!" The President grabbed him by the shirt collar and scolded, "DOn't you ever make me and the board look like a fool! You never make surprise announcements without my approval, McQueen! MY tent, now!" He then shoved LIghtning away, almost knocking the racer down. Sally ran to her future husband's side. Worried more than anything...
Lightning, Sally, and Miranda made their way to the President's tent where the man quickly scolded further, "You should have told me that you planned on quitting!" "I'm not quitting, it's a temporary break!" Lightning corrected into the man's face! The President scoffed, "Oh Please! Once a racer leaves for a season, they never come back the same! You would have made it seem like you are leaving because you are afraid for your safety! DO you realize how bad that looks!? Not to mention, you being out o the cup loses a lot of money in the sport! You are one of our most profitable drivers!" "So this is about money?" LIghtning asked rudely The President sighed as he rubbed his eyes, "NO, of course not." He shook his head, "Look.. Lightning.. I don't want you to feel like it's a money thing, but.." "But it is, right?" "NO!" SHouted the man! Lightning glared and asked, "Then why is it a problem if I take a leave?" The President shrugged answering, "IT's not a problem technically. But I have seen it all too many times. A racer thinks he needs some time to do whatever and then when they come back, they are never the same as they were. You, Lightning, are a great racer. You are in lead by points, by rank, by cups.. You leave and you will lose most of that!" LIghtning frowned. Thinking or rather overthinking. Maybe he would regret this. What if he couldn't come back like he was planning. His eyes filled with tears as he tried explaining his reasons, "I'm not the same now. I can't concentrate on the track and my mind is everywhere it shouldn't be. The people I need now are dead. I-I.. I was shot and could feel myself dying. I should have been killed back in England!" He stood up continuing, "I have nightmares of this crap nightly! I have to try and calm myself before each race and now that calming and quiet is just me overthinking and putting myself through torture! Just to race!" Sally pulled him back down into his seat gently. Miranda realized Lightning was messed up right now. She sighed with a frown. The President just stared at the driver. Thinking about what to say next.
"Are you seeing anyone for this?" He asked. Sally answered, "He doesn't want to." Miranda butted in wit, "You really should, LIghtning." The President leaned forward to ask, "Can we do a test run next weekend? You race and see how you do, how you feel? If it doesn't work out, you take that leave like you say you need but if it does? Come back to us, LIghtning. We want you in the cup series." He smiled. Lightning didn't seem very happy about it though he nodded in agreement. "Sure.." "Great! IN the meantime, I'm going to push for your medications approval. Maybe this will get the board to approve new drugs that are approved if anything!" He exclaimed. LIghtning shrugged muttering, "Yeah, maybe.. IT would be good for the drivers." Which it would be. Sally gently rubbed Lightning's back in support. He seemed confused. Trying to make his own decisions and between the President of the Sport, herself, Miranda.. He was being slung around like a pinball. She realized how awful she had been. She needed to just support whatever he wanted to do. Especially right now in his more delicate state. It wasn't fair that Lightning wasn't able to just make his decisions...
Next race weekend.
Lightning walked through the trucks and trailers and made his way to the 95 garages where the Bolt was waiting for him. He opened the door to find the hood opened and someone messing with the bolt! "Hey!" LIghtning snapped as he slammed the door shut. "This is a private garage, buddy. I'm gonna have to ask"-He stopped as he walked around to see it was Tiffany. Dressed in her race suit, top half tied on her waist and a red and pink sports bra on. He stared at her tan skin under the bra. He never would have thought she had abs that seemed to be coated in honey. Her glossy hair is all up in a shiny, mid-high ponytail. He blushed as he stared. "T-Tiffany?.. What are you doing? I'm racing today." Tiffany set the wrench down and, wiping her oily hands on her hips and smiling, "Oh just a tune-up." "With a wrench?.." LIghtning questioned. Tiffany nodded proudly but Lightning was nervous at the idea of someone messing with his car. "Thank you." She said. "For letting me race for your team last weekend." Lightning nodded, "Yeah, sure. Thank you I guess. The team said good things about you. You are pretty easy to get along with." "Great! I always enjoy a compliment." She smiled. Lightning couldn't help staring at her torso. It was rather distracting. Seeing the little dews of sweat roll down her abs and to her belly button.
Then he noticed her piercing there. A small diamond belly button ring and then some tattoo on her pelvis on the left side near her hip. Some writing. "WHat's that?" He asked curiously. Tiffany glanced down at her tattoo. Se smiled and pulled her suit down further, revealing her lace, hot pink panty side. Then she pulled the panties down of her hip to reveal her full left pelvis region to the upper thigh, showing her butterflies down her thighs and above in cursive writing 'Float like a butterfly' LIghtning stared a moment, reading it. Tiffany happily shared, "I got this a few years ago. When I decided to give racing a bit of a try. I mean, I failed back then. Miserably." She then pulled everything back up. Lightning quickly looked up so she wouldn't notice him staring at her pelvis. Plus, that was a little weird of him. It made him feel weird.
"Sorry I lost by the way." She added. LIghtning blushed, "What?" "Last weekend. When I raced for you. I'm sorry I lost." "It's alright. Kind of expected." He replied. Tiffany was a bit shocked and hurt by that. Lightning quickly realized how that sounded! "Oh not that we expected you to lose! JUst.. Most rookies don't.. Win easily.." He explained. Tiffany just giggled. "It's okay. Deep down, I know I'm not a racer." "Don't say that. You just need a good trainer and a coach. Back in my days before rusteze, I was horrible. I mean, I was the best and fastest but also the weakest and probably most miserable in classes." "Really?" "Mmhmm." "Well.. I know I'm not meant to be a racer." She admitted. LIghtning raised a brow and asked, "Then why do it?" Tiffany shrugged. "MOstly because of my Dad I guess. And the attention. But.. I mean it pays well." She smiled. Lightning snickered. He honestly hated that Tiffany didn't care about racing as a driver but ost because he had worked his ass off to get where he was when she had just had it handed to her. "So.. You're going to race today?" SHe asked. Lightning sighed, "Yeah, I guess so." "DOn't seem very thrilled there, Champ." She then gently fist-bumped his shoulder. Lightning shrugged, "I.." He began but shut down instantly. "Yeah, I'm happy." NO, he wasn't.
Tiffany stared at the champ. She could tell he wasn't feeling it today. She sighed and closed her eyes. Taking a deep breath in then out. "There is nothing I can't do if I believe in myself." LIghtning raised a brow as he stared at her. Tiffany opened her eyes and smiled at him. "Come on, I know you do it too." She reminded. Lightning smiled a little then with an eye roll. He stared at his race car a moment before closing his eyes and motivating himself. "Speed.. I. Am. Speed.." ... TIffany adding, "Faster than fast, quicker than quick." LIghtning opened his eyes and looked over at the attractive and perky girl next to him before finishing, "I am Lightning." Tiffany was proud of herself and slapped the champion on the back. "You got that right. And hey, it's like you always say. You can handle anything, so you got this." She assured. Lightning wasn't so sure about that but at the moment, he didn't have much of a choice...
"Welcome for another great day of racing, race fans." Said, Michael. Darrel agreed with a nod, "Yes, SIr! Gonna be a nice day today too. The weather out here in Florida is just beautiful!" "It sure is Darrel. Now let's go to the pits and see what some of these drivers have to say."
The cameras went to Jeff Gorvette who said, "I think today is gonna be full of surprises. All of us racers sure are competitive this year more than the last." Then to Bobby Swift, "MAn I can't wait to race today! The weather is amazing! Perfect day for racing!" Then to Joe Holland, "All I can say is the other drivers better watch it because Joe is at the top of the rounds today." Then to Lightning, "Uh.. It's nice out. I expect a good and clean race." The anchor asked, "How are you feeling after the incident in Tennessee?" Lightning stared at the camera. Glancing at the news anchor for a moment before answering, "Uh.. I feel good. I'm back, aren't I?" He smiled awkwardly.
Sally watched from the screen back home. SIghing with a frown. "Poor Lightning.." She mumbled...
Lightning walked up to his pits to see what was barely a team out here. "Where is everyone?" He asked one of the crew members. The pittie answered, "Well.. A few team members felt they were.. Um.. Unsafe.. Being a part of the crew." Lightning sighed. He understood though. SO he nodded and asked, "Did the Bolt pass inspections?" The pittie nodded. "Good. Check the fuel." Ordered LIghtning. The pittie raised a brow and asked, "Check the fuel? What do you mean?" "Check the fuel. Make sure it's what we always use and nothing else." "What else would it be?" The pittie asked with confusion. Lightning stared a moment thining. "Um.. I don't know, just do it." He growled. The pittie shrugged admitting, "I don't know how.." Lightning growled with frustration. "Never mind. Useless.. I'll take care of it myself!" Then stomped off to inspections. Once there he asked the official, "The Bolt, ninety-five. Did it pass?" The man nodded. "Was the fuel alright?" The official raised a brow before answering, "Yeah, same as always. Why? Should I be worried?" LIghtning hesitated, "Uh-no. NO, but do me a favor and check it again." "The car?" "The fuel. Check the fuel again." Lightning repeated more firmly. The official grabbed out a clipboard with the 95 car information on it then nodded. LIghtning sighed and headed back to the pits. He was overthinking and he knew he was. The Bolt was fine and fuel was fine but he was just a little more worried today...
Lightning walked into his trailer, closing the door and letting out a sigh. He felt hot and sweaty. He wiped his forehead and was almost grossed out by the amount of sweat. "What the hell is wrong with me?" He muttered. He then walked over to the mirror in the trailer and looked at himself. Bags under his eyes, his nose a little red and the sweating was making his hair all funny looking. "I look awful.." He whined. Knock, knock, knock. He looked towards the door and asked, "WHo is it?.." Nervously. "Josie." Called a sweet angelic voice. Lightning sighed and hesitated to open the door. He looked like crap! But it was Josie so he opened the door. Josephine walked in and closed the door before, "Woah.. You look.. Tired.." She muttered. LIghtning shrugged. before sitting on the couch and asking, "What are you doing here?" Josie sat next to him answering, "Come to see how you were doing, after all, that happened. Are you racing today?" She asked. Lightning nodded. Josie brushed his hair back softly and replied, "Good. I'll be watching like always." LIghtning smiled a little hearing that. But then suddenly, "I miss you." Lightning muttered. The two stared at each other. Josie with a more shocked expression though. Staring into each other's eyes. "Lightning..." She began, "I.. Why would you say that?" "Because I do. I miss you a lot sometimes." He admitted as he placed his hand over hers. Josie glanced down and asked, "What about Sally? IS-is that, is that still happening?" Lightning stared at Josie a moment before admitting, "I don't-Yes!.. I love her so much but.." He paused, thinking. "There are just a lot of doubts right now..." He admitted softly. Josie raised a brow and asked, "WHat-what is this coming from?" "I don't know... I just.. SHe's crazy." "No, I mean.. Lightning.. You've been off lately." "Yeah, because I.." He paused and sighed. "You're right.. I'm sorry. I shouldn't be saying any of this to you and me.. I love Sally. I don't know, maybe I'm overthinking it." He admitted. Josie smiled then kissed his cheek. "Goodbye, Lightning. Glad you seem to be healing. You are good to Sally for me. Can't wait to see you race today. WIn for me, baby." She teased before leaving. Lightning let out a sigh of relief. So stupid. How dare he even say that to Josephine. He quickly made his way to his duffle, pulled out his painkillers, and took two before heading back out to the track...
SLAM! Behind him as he entered the 95 garages. Lightning took off his helmet and threw it across the pretty much empty garage! THUD! "FUCK!" He yelled! Passerbyers outside could hear things being thrown against the garage door from outside Tiffany frowned as she heard this. Lightning raced hard today and struggled. Usually, he didn't struggle so badly but he was off his game, overthinking, and was hesitating when he usually didn't out there which led to his opponents having the upper hand. Bobby walked up and asked, "Anyone talk to him yet?" Tiffany shook her head, "No, not yet." "I reckon I will." But Tiffany stopped him placing her arm in front of Bobby. "Don't worry about it. I got it." She assured then walked over and inside the garage. She closed the door as LIghtning slammed every tool on the table to the concrete floor loudly! She whistled, grabbing his attention, "Tough break." She muttered. Lightning's brows lowered as he snarled, "WHat do you want?" "Oh, nothing.. Just seeing how many tools will need replacing before next week." Lightning glared at her. "The team would have done better letting you race today instead of me." He growled. Tiffany snickered, "That's not true. The team wants you. You are Lightning McQueen. You were just shot and are still recovering! Understandably, you had a tough day, dude." Lightning sighed. She was right and he knew it.
Tiffany walked up and jumped up onto the table, sitting on it. "You did well for your first race back. Better than I would have if it were me. If it were me, I wouldn't have even come back." Lightning snickered admitting, "I didn't want to. Not yet.." "What do you mean?" "I wanted to take a break for the rest of the season. I needed a break and that's not aloud for racers like me." "You are Lightning McQueen. You could do whatever you want and the board can't say shit." Giggled Tiffany. Lightning snickered, "I wish it worked that way but that's not quite right." Tiffany stared at Lightning then asked, "Let me see your hand." "What?" Lightning questioned. Tiffany smiled, "Your hand. I want to read your palm." LIghtning looked at her like she was stupid. "Excuse me?" He growled. Tiffany rolled her eyes then hopped down and took his hand, pulling it towards her and tracing his palm lines with her index finger. "MMhmm.. Very good. Yeah. Yeah, I see good things." She smiled. LIghting glared and jerked his hand back. He did not believe in things like that. Tiffany placed her hand on Lightning's upper arm and continued, "You are a great racer, Mr. McQueen. YOu are kind of like my idle out there. I wish I was half as good-no! A fourth teaspoon as good as you are out there. Even on your bad days, you are amazing and everyone loves you out there." Lightning stared down at her. "You have an incredible life. So relax. Things are gonna be fine." She assured staring up at him. LIghtning glanced down at her in her cute little race suit then back up to her eyes. "Yeah.." He muttered, "Sure." He just agreed to shut her up mostly.
Tiffany glared and crossed her arms. About to say more when the door opened and the President walked in asking, "Lightning! How are you doing? Feel like continuing racing the season?" LIghtning sighed before turning and facing the man. "No, I don't. Today was horrible. I was dizzy, I felt groggy and I was in pain the entire time! I need a break! Besides, this isn't up to you. It's up to me and my team." "Well, sure. But you do realize that you never changed your terms with Rusteze." "Yeah, so? I never needed to sense I never left them. WHay are you bringing that up?" "It states that as the new driver for Rusteze, you agree to keep your place or be replaced." "By who? They won't race anyone except me. This is a joke." "They already have, Lightning." The President explained. Lightning's eyes widened. "What?" He asked in disbelief. "No, Rusteze would never do that to me." "The moment they grabbed a backup who signed waivers and a contract as a fill-in, also put that driver as a replacement line up. As long as she says yes." LIghtning looked at Tiffany in shock. Tiffany quickly defended her so-called idle, "I would never do that to Lightning!" "Take it down a notch." Warned Lightning. Tiffany blushed and repeated, "I would never do that to Lightning.." Much calmer than the first time. The President glared at the two racers and explained, "You should re-think that, Tiffany. Rusteze is sought out as a mediocre sponsor now." "And why wouldn't it after the name Lightning has created for it?" Asked Tiffany. The President sighed in disappointment. "So you don't want to continue racing?" He asked the champion in the room. Lightning hesitated. Staring at the man. "I.. I don't care honestly.. Not anymore-or.. Not right now..." He frowned. The President crossed his arms and thought about his choice of words before replying, "Alright. I want to see you next week." THen he left slowly. As if he almost added something but decided best to just leave.
Once that door shut, Tiffany lost it! "How dare you let that man talk to you like that!" You're Lightning McQueen!" "Would you stop saying that!" LIghtning yelled! Tiffany only whined, "Why are you acting like you are giving up!?" "Because I am!" He shouted into her face! Tiffany's eyes widened. She couldn't understand. "But.. Why?.." She cried softly. Lightning stared at her. Not sure how to answer that because he didn't quite know himself. "You.. I.." He was speechless. Tiffany frowned. Her heartbreaking for Lightning even. He sighed as he stared at the floor. Both silent for a moment. Tiffany then knelt and began picking up the tools Lightning had tossed on the floor in his outrage. LIghtning knelt to help and said, "You should go.. NO need for you to be here and I'll clean this up. It's my mess." Tiffany looked at Lightning, "I don't mind helping you when I can, Mr. McQueen. I'm worried about you." The two gathered the tools and placed them all disorganized onto the table. Lightning sighed but thanked her. Tiffany nodded then said goodbye and left. Leaving Lightning alone with his thoughts for a while...
Knock, knock. "Hey, Lightning, it's me!" Announced a familiar perky young woman's voice. Lightning sat up from his bed in the motel and looked at the time. 7.45 and his flight wasn't until 2. He rolled his eyes then slipped on some pants over his boxers before making his way to the front door and opening it. Glaring down at Tiffany who had two or three shopping bags with her. "Why are you in my room?" He asked. Tiffany reached into one of the shopping bags and pulled out a medium, small blue box that reads OCEAN on it. "I got you a gift!" She exclaimed. LIghtning closed his eyes and sighed before asking, "ANd the gift of sleeping in wouldn't have sufficed?" Tiffany glared replying, "I also brought coffee and a few books that might help you out of this little rut you in, partner." She winked. Lightning raised a brow. "Partner?" He asked. Tiffany nodded then asked, "Can I come in?" Lightning stepped out of the wat and motioned for her to enter. She did happily. Lightning closed the door and asked, "Why did you get me stuff?" Tiffany set the bags down in the nearest chair then opened up the OCEAN box. "Well for two reasons." She answered, "One, I was stressed and shopping helps me relax." "Of course it does..." Lightning growled. "And two," SHe continued, "Gifts always put a smile on a person's face. So here." She then handed Lightning a cologne bottle.
Lightning glanced at it then handed it back. "I have my own, thanks." Tiffany then sprayed some of this one on her wrist assuring, "Nothing like this! I guarantee it. Just smell it!" She then pushed her wrist up to Lightning's nose. He inhaled the scent without even trying. Having to admit, "Oka, that.. Does smell good.." "I know, right!? NO woman will be able to resist you!" She assured. Lightning snickered and joked, "NO woman can resist me now." Tiffany rolled her eyes and slapped the champion across his bare chest. Staring at his pecks. "Wow.. You are really tough." She complimented with a smile. Lightning shrugged. "I barely work out." He admitted proudly. Tiffany then sprayed the scent onto Lightning's neck then sniffed him. "Mmmmm.. That smell is just amazing. I could fall asleep to it." She joked. Sort of. It did smell that amazing!
Lightning blushed and stared into Tiffany's eyes. She gazed up into his and suddenly muttered, "Wow.. Your eyes are blue." Both still staring into each other's eyes. Tiffany pulled back, clearing her throat. "I got me some perfume. I think you will like it too. It's Brazilian." She then pulled out her perfume from another bag and sprayed it on her wrists, patting it over her neck then tilting her head, "Go on. Give a whiff." She pushed with a smile. Lightning started at her neck, why not? So he hunched a bit and sniffed her neck "It's.. Like a perfumey, salted caramel." He husked before pulling away. "Smells good, right?" She asked. Lightning nodded. Tiffany began sorting through another bag. "So I also got you a few books. One of them is all about finding your inner self in the dark. Sounds cool. I think you can get into it." When Lightning suddenly grabbed her arm, "Tiff.." He called quietly. Tiffany stared up at him with confusion. HIs eyes were so blue and needy. She yanked her arm away and asked, "Um.. Should I go? I'm.. Getting mixed signals here." She blushed. Lightning smiled nervously, "Uh-What?" He asked. Tiffany rubbed the back of her neck as she bit her lips. Lightning stared at her and tried figuring out why Tiffany felt so uncomfortable suddenly. Tiffany shrugged replying, "Look, you can do whatever you want and I don't care. I don't even care that you are engaged or anything. You do you. I mean.. Obviously, this makes you a sort of shitty person but who you are as a person doesn't define how you drive like a racer. Some of the greatest racers in the world are assholes." LIghtning's brows lowered, "Wait.. What?" He asked. Tiffany shrugged, "I can stay. I don't mind. What you do is your business I won't tell, I'm not a tattle tell.. Or I'll go.. Whichever you wanna.. Want to.. Do..." She smiled awkwardly. Lightning stared at her. A little confused but also starting to realize what Tiffany meant.
Lightning stared at the young woman. So now he had the chance to chat. And Tiffany was probably a lot of fun. Young, tiny, perky, fun, and rambunctious attitude. He was on the fence with this one. He wanted to and he didn't. "Um.." He mumbled, "You should.. You should go.." He frowned as if he was disappointed in himself. Tiffany nodded then left the bags and headed to the door. "Well I'll see you next week, Lightning" And she was gone. Lightning sighed. Man, he wanted that girl. He swallowed a lump down and tried to think of Sally but Tiffany was on his mind now. Fuck. He had to get out of here and back to Sally as soon as possible...
Lightning walked into the house and closed the door behind him quietly. He sighed before calling out, "Sal.. I'm home." He hung his jacket and set his keys down as Sally walked over and hugged him. Pulling his face close and kissing the side of his face. "Hey, Stickers.. I'm sorry I couldn't go.." Sally greeted. LIghtning smiled at his future wife. "It's alright." "So? How was it? What have you decided?" "Well.. It felt horrible. I felt horrible.." "I'm sorry." "DOn't be... I..I guess I'll keep it up for now." He answered finally. Sally raised a brow. "Keep racing?" She questioned. Lightning nodded. "Stickers," She began, "I thought you wanted a break after everything that has been happening." LIghtning snickered, "I did-I do. Sort of. But.." He paused and sighed, "I'm not big enough to make the decision entirely. MY Sponsor isn't.. Um.. Ranked high enough to keep on without me. Not yet anyway." "BUt RUsty and Dusty said"-"I know but.. IT doesn't matter. I'm going to keep racing." He said firmly. Sally frowned. Worried for him. "What about your medications?" "I'll make it work, Sal. I can handle it." "Can you?" She asked. Lightning stared a moment before admitting, "Not really, but... I've no choice right now." He shrugged before walking into the kitchen after a drink. Sally stood there a moment thinking about what she could do for her love. This wasn't right...
Lightning showed up to the next race. Sitting in his garage on a metal chair. Staring at the red race car as he thought hard about this. How he felt so distracted again. Tapping his knee up and down. UP and down.. Up and down... Tapping, tapping, tap, tap, tap.. He closes his eyes. Taking a deep breath and trying to calm himself down. His heart raced? Badm, adum, badum. "Hey, Lightning." Called from the door. Lightning opened his eyes to see Tiffany closing the door of the garage. "Hey.." He greeted. His voice cracked a bit. Tiffany walked over and leaned on the Bolt, crossing her ankle and arms. "How is it going today?" She asked. Lightning looked up at her and shrugged. "I feel like shit." He answered honestly. Tiffany snickered, "DOn't we all anymore. It's obvious the President is a piece of shit." The two stared at each other. Silently. FOr a good amount of time it seemed. Neither knew what else to say. Tiffany wet her lips with her tongue before sniffling and saying, "I'm sorry if I made things awkward before. I wasn't trying to assume that you"-"No, no. It's alright. I'm.. It's not the first time a woman assumed I wanted... It's... Let's-it never happen. I must have... Sorry." He stuttered. Tiffany snickered with a smile. "But I'd totally be down. You know, if you were totally up. Or single or whatever. You seem like you'd be fun." She explained as she stared seductively. Lightning stared at the nose of the Bolt as he heard this. Not sure how or what to say to that. Tiffany sighed, "Well... Are you racing then?" SHe asked. LIghtning looked at her and nodded, "Yeah, I plan on it." "Okay. See you out there." Tiffany replied before leaving. Lightning watched her go. No way he was going to stop her. She was a mess. A young and stupid, irresponsible mess...
Lightnin walked into Bobby's garage. Seeing Bobby shut the hood of his race car and his crew putting away some tools. Bobby smiled seeing his friend, "HEY! McQueen! How are you feeling?" He asked. LIghtning shrugged, "Alright. Was hoping to ask a favor." "Sure, anything." "Um.. Alone.." Lightning muttered. Bobby glanced at his crew then motioned for them to go. They took a moment to, but they all left, closing the doors behind them. Bobby then asked, "So what's up?" Lightning sighed and began pacing, "I'm not okay, Bobby.. My head is all over the place and Tiffany.. Fuck. She's just teasing me constantly anymore." "Wait, Tiffany? The trainee?" Asked Bobby. Lightning stopped and looked at his friend with such a pathetic expression. It made Bobby chuckled, "Fuck. You really are messed up right now. Is everything okay back home?" He asked. Lightning nodded then shrugged. "I don't know, Bobby... I'm tired. All the time.. I don't feel happy anymore. It's been weeks since Sally and I.." He stopped and sighed. Bobby grew concerned. "Woah, this is serious.. What happened?" "I got shot! I can't think straight! I don't even want to race.. I mean I do, but.. I don't.. I feel so exhausted by everything. I'm hurting all the time and.." "And?... What?" "And I need more pain killers... Or something to help the anxiety I think." "Aren't you taking medications for that?" Asked Bobby.
Lightning brushed his hands through his hair before whining, "Yes, but it's not strong enough.. Bobby.." He pleaded, "I know you are always taking drugs that you can pass by the tests.. Do you have something?" He asked. Bobby crossed his arms asking, "Is that why you came to see me? For a high?" He snarled. Lightning frowned. It was clear he did. Bobby shook his head but nodded, "I got stuff you can take. But you wait until after you qualified and take the test before taking these or it will be detected and you will be flagged and banned." "I never even thought of that." Lightning admitted. Bobby raised a brow. "About what?" "That taking other drugs would get me out of the race." BObby stared at Lightning with confusion for a moment before asking, "Are you trying to get out of a race?" Lightning shook his head but Bobby didn't truly believe that. With a sigh, Bobby walked over to his bag and pulled out a mints box. "Just take the whole can." He said. "That way if you need more later." "Are you sure?" Asked Lightning. Bobby nodded handing the box to his friend. "Thanks.." LIghting muttered. He began to leave when Bobby stopped him asking, "And what's this with Tiffany?" Lightning stopped, sighed then turned around, "She's a tease and trouble." Bobby chuckled, "Well yeah, why do you think I fucked her?" He asked. Lightning shook his head, thanked Bobby once more than left...
Lightning pulled the BOlt into the garage, the large metal door closing behind him after another failed racing attempt. He sat there. Parked in the room. Engine off and just quiet. Sitting alone and thinking as he sat in the seat. Helmet off and next to him. Staring at the wall before him. He sighed. Maybe this was it. Maybe it was time to quit. He wasn't doing well. And things seemed to keep on getting worse. Knock, knock, knock. Lightning crawled out the window and called, "WHo is it?" "Tiffany. Can I come in?" She asked. Lightning sighed, "Sure.." MOre of a growl. Tiffany came in and closed the door. "Are you okay?" Lightning shook his head, "Not really.. Eighteenth is bad for me." Tiffany snickered as she walked up to the racer and loosened his collar. "It's fine. No one expects you to be perfect after what happened to you." Lightning took Tiffany's hands and the two stared into each other's eyes. "Tiff..." He began, staring down into her sparkly eyes. "Why do you care so much about me lately?.." "What?" The young woman asked, "Well, because I do. You have done so much for me and, You are so cool and I love you. Do YOu know? More appreciatively than anything. Like a brother really." LIghtning sighed as he brushed some of her hair behind her ear. Tiffany swallowed nervously then closed her eyes. Seeing nothing but the darkness as she could feel Lightning's breath moving closer to her face, to her lips before slowly his velvet lips touched hers.
They kissed so softly and slowly. So quietly. The kiss was so lust-filled, gentle, passionate, and slow. Slowly both kissed into each other. Getting into it. Their mouths opened and let each other in. Exploring each other's mouths, teeth, tongues. Lightning's hands glided to her shoulder, to under her arms, her shapely body, gliding down to her ass as they made out softly. Tiffany moaned into his mouth softly. Lightning gently pushed her back, making her run into the side door of the Bolt as they continued kissing effortlessly. Making out and lightly caressing each other's bodies. Tiffany continued her soft and subtle moans as she reached for his belt and loosened the suit. Taking the zipper at his throat and beginning to take it down his body slowly. As if she wanted this moment to last forever. Oh, how good it felt to kiss her, to touch her, to smell her sweet strawberry creme' scent in his nose. It was a nice thought. NO strings attached, no talk of kids, no fight later, no I love you or mess to clean up, no responsibility to deal with after, no worries.
Lightning broke the kiss to move his lips to the crook of her neck and collar bone. Kissing and suckling at her skin of sweet creme' SO soft to touch. Like newborn baby soft. Fuck he was straining in his suit right now! Tiffany took the shoulders of his suit and began to pull them from his arms when the door opened. Lightning pushed away from Tiffany so fast! His face red and turning away, back facing the door as he pushed the shoulders of his suit back up. Fuck. Tiffany glanced over to see Mack as he stared at the two of them. Mack was speechless. Staring at Tiffany who looked flushed and Lightning who was facing away. "Um.." He mumbled. "Should.. Um..." He was trying to figure out if what he thought he walked into really was happening or not. Lightning cheating on Sally? But he had grown up so much. Of course, it wasn't Mack's business what Lightning did. But Mack always looked out for the kid and Sally. He just grew to care for Sally after she and Lightning had been together for so long. Sally was family to the team. Long before they had become engaged. "Um.. The team has the pits packed up." He announced finally. Tiffany bit her lips, looking a bit guilty.
Mack noticed this a lot. Lightning sighed, still facing away. "Okay." He replied. Mack frowned and reminded, "If you need to talk, I'm here kid." Lightning nodded and looked over his shoulder replying, "Sure, okay, thanks. Just.." "I'll go." Suddenly announced Tiffany. And before Lightning could argue with her, she scurried off around Mack and out of the building. Leaving the racer and his driver alone. Lightning sighed and announced, "t's not what you think." Mack swallowed nervously, "It's not my place to"-"I love Sally." Lightning interrupted as he finally turned around and faced Mack. Mack nodded agreeing, "I know you do." Lightning nodded and zipped his suit up. Lightning stared at Mack. His eyes were glossy and honestly, the racer looked like he might cry! Mack sighed and closed the door before asking, "Is everything okay? With you and Sally?" Lightning nodded answering, "Technically, yes. It's not her, it's.. Well, I guess it is both of us. I can't trust her anymore. She is bossy and makes all our decisions and I just.. I'm unhappy and she doesn't even"-"Do you want to.. End things?" "No! NO, never!" "Then what was just happening with Tiffany?" Asked Mack. Lightning stared at his driver. Not sure if he wanted to be honest or not. Then he remembered,. Mack sent Sally the picture of him and Josie alone.
Lightning's brows lowered as he got defensive, "I don't know what you think you saw, but whatever it was, you're wrong. Now LEAVE!" HE shouted as he pointed to the door. MAck's brows raised as he was in shock. Lightning's behavior was so erratic lately. Mack frowned. Obviously Lightning was going through something and he wished he could help.. But you can't help those who don't want the help. Mack nodded and walked away. Leaving Lightning alone. Lightning sat on the floor near his race car. "Fuck." He scoffed as he lay flat on his back on the floor. He was so close to cheating. SO close he could taste it, literally. Sally didn't deserve that. He was a horrible boyfriend. A horrible fiance. He glanced over at the table to see the mints box. Maybe one or two would help this guilt and pain fade away for a while...