Lightning walked over to his car over at Willy's butte with a tool box. Tuning it up before running a few laps with it. Mater walked up and asked, "Hey, bud. What you up to?" Lightning glanced at his friend before answering, "Just tuning the Bolt up some. Noticed she was pulling against me a bit. How have you been?" "Good. You know, we don't hang out to much anymore." "Yeah, I know. Sorry, Mater. I'm just busy with the season ending here." "Yeah, I understand." Replied Mater. Lightning shut the hood and tossed the tools off the track. "Maybe later we can do something?" Asked Mater. Lightning shrugged with, "Maybe. I told Sheriff I'd help him get the town decorated for Christmas soon. I think He was wanting me to help him get everything out of storage and clean it up a bit." "Could I help!?" Mater asked with excitement. Lightning smiled, "I don't see why not." "Greta! Oh right.. I almost forgot. Sally told me that your brother called and wanted to talk about you two coming down for Christmas." "Yeah, okay. I'll call him back later." Lightning grabbed his helmet and out it on before hopping into the Bolt. Mater leaned into the race car and asked, "So are you and Miss Sally okay? Flo and Ramone were talking a bit and I overheard a little of it… I just worries about yawls is all." Mater did indeed worry about the couple. Lightning nodded and assured his friend that things were okay. "We're just.. Going through a rough patch. Been a rough few years on us. That's all." "Right.. Right.. Alright. See yuh later, Buddy!" Mater shouted as she walked back to his pick up. Lightning watched his friend go, but wondered how on earth that truck was still running. Then he stared out at the track, taking a few breaths before whispering to himself. "Speed… I.. Am… Speed.." And pressing the gas as he shifted the car into gear! Gunning it down the dirt path hard and fast. Lightning knew the Bolt was having some issues and it was time to manage a few upgrades at Ramones when he had time…..

Sally was busy in her office. Going through some documents on the computer and trying to clear out any old information that the Cone didn't need, getting and confirming reservations up at Wheel Well when she heard the loud roar of Lightning's engine pull up. She stopped and looked out the window to see her husband exit the car. He walked into the cone office and greeted, "Hey, Babe." "Hey." "How is work going?' He asked. Sally leaned back in her chair before answering "Good. Not much to do sense all the staff has been showing up." "That's a good thing, right?" Lightning asked. Sally giggled and nodded. Lightning sat on her desk and asked, "Want to go for a drive?" "A drive?" "Yeah, a drive. You know? That thing we use to do time to time?" He smiled. Sally smiled back answering, "Sure. That sounds great. What time?" "Well. I will be honest with you. I didn't think that far ahead before asking." That made Sally snicker at him. "Okay.. Um.. Say six?' He asked his wife. Sally nodded with, "Six sounds good." "Great, I'll meet you over at Flo's and we'll race up to Wheel Well where we will sit down and have a nice dinner before racing home and I'll run you a hot bath with lavender bubbles of corse then rub your neck and shoulders. How's that sound?" He asked. Sally raised a brow before answering, "Sounds like you are up ton something." "Nope. Up to nothing. I just want you." "Alright. I'll see yo at six, Stickers." "Six it is." He said with a smile before heading out and taking off in the race car. Sally sighed with a smile. Things were getting better and that was amazing. She really had let go of the idea of having a baby for now. She needed to focus on their relationship more than anything right now….

Lightning pulled into his trailer and parked the Bolt. Sitting in it fora moment and taking a breath.He was not feeling the greatest. He was… He frowned. Faking this for her. He was so unhappy. Nothing made him happy. Sure, he had moments where things felt great and were amazing. And he loved Sally, but… He noticed when he was in the office. The separation papers were sticking out of the file cabinet. He knew it was them because of the corner having the RS court symbol. Sure, It could be something else of Sally's, being the lawyer she was, but.. She hadn't been working any cases lately. Was she still.. Considering. She agreed no baby.. Lightning hopped out the car and walked over to his tool box in the front of the trailer and grabbed out his pills. Taking a few of them painfully dry. How much longer could he put on the charades before Sally caught on?….

Sally glanced at the clock. 5:40pm. About time to meet Lightning. She sighed and grabbed her paperwork and walked over to the cabinet to foley's them away for now and finish some things up tomorrow morning. When she opened the cabinet drawer, some court papers fell. She put the ones she had away then knelt down and began to gather them up. She noticed what they were. She still had them. The separation papers. She stared at them for a moment. Thinking about how she felt when she was filling them out. She stared at them. Kind of.. Wondering.. What would life be like if she went through with it. God.. Two failed marriages?… Sally just sat there on the ground, staring at them. Telling herself.. No more pushing for the baby.. The marriage is more important… But.. Was it? She thought about her first one.. Ben.. She was heart broken and didn't think she could ever be in love and happy again.. But then Lightning came around… If she left Lightning… Then.. Surely someone else would come around… Right?.. It would be a lie to say that she wasn't faking being happy around Lightning sometimes.. She just.. Was tired of fighting and crying… It was easier to lie and let him think she was happy again. Dropping the baby she desperately wanted.. The baby she went to clinics for and the baby she started fertility treatments… Her eyes teared up… How long had it been? How long was Lightning going to punish her and never give her children? She wondered. Almost three… Years… She realized it had been nearly three years of this hell with him!…..

Lightning sat in the Bolt. Waiting near Flo's. Was Sally coming? He wondered. He frowned and grabbed out his phone, pulling up her name. He hesitated. Taking a deep breath and putting on a smile for his wife before dialing her number.

Sally gathered the papers and placed them in her bag when suddenly, BBBBBbzzzzz… BBBBbbzzzzz. She stared at her phone, 6:08pm. "Crap." She muttered. So she grabbed her bag, tossed it into the car and rushed over to Flo where Lightning was waiting. She pulled her car up next to his and smiled, "Sorry, late." "Yeah, I didn't notice." Lightning joked. Sally rolled her eyes then revved her car's engine. Lightning snickered and revved his up, but then Sally took off! Now this could actually be fun! He thought as he gunned the Bolt after her!!!…..

Lightning pulled up to the Wheel Well and parked next to Sally's car. Both meeting at the hoods of the cars. "Can't believe you beat me." Lightning snarled. Sally rolled her eyes and teased, "You let me." "Yeah, of course." Lightning kissed her cheek gently. Sally smiled, but it was fake. This time, Lightning noticed that. That didn't sit well with him. But he chose to say nothing and walked his woman to a table. They sat across together and Guido brought them drinks. Sally thanked him and leaned forward to the table and asked, "So.. What's the plan for Christmas after the cup?" Lightning shrugged answering, "Well…I know Mom and Chad want us up there." "And my Dad wants us." "Does he?…" Lightning asked carefully. Sally crossed her arms and asked, "What does that mean?" Lightning smiled awkwardly and explained, "Well.. Your Dad hates me and… I'm sure he knows.. More than I know he knows…" Sally frowned. Actually she hadn't been talking to her Dad about them. Well… Expect about the… Separation papers… "Um.. No, he doesn't hate you." Sally assured. Lightning glared at his wife, asking, "Really?" "Really." "I don't believe that at all. What about Ben?" Lightning asked. Sally blushed and asked, "What do you mean, what about Ben?" Lightning sighed and explained, "He always comes up here around this time." "No, more like… January." Sally corrected.

Lightning rolled his eyes and asked, "Do you think that maybe this year..He didn't?" Sally sipped her champagne and asked, "Why not? It's just Ben." "Well, yeah.. To you it's just Ben. To me.. He's… Ben." Sally didn't understand. Lightning decided to let it go and not start a fight. Just let Sally have her ex husband all over like usual as she wanted. It wasn't like Ben ever actually crossed a line anyway, so whatever. Sally and Lightning sat there a little awkwardly tonight. Both unsure what to talk about. Sure, things were good, better, but… Neither one knew the other was actually miserable right now. Lightning decided to break the silence with, "So… You um… You're happy?" He asked. Sally stared wide eyed and laughed, "Of course. Why wouldn't I-we be hap-happy? Aren't you?" She asked. Lightning snickered answering, "Well, yeah! Duh. I'm with the most amazing woman on earth right now." He smiled. It didn't seem real though. Both awkwardly laughed that off. Lightning cleared his throat and asked, "Um.. So.. You are coming to the race?" "Of course! It's the last race of the season, Lightning. You are going to win." "And when I do, I'll dedicate it to you." "No." Sally insisted, "Dedicate it to your team and yourself. After everything we've.. Been through.. You did it. I wasn't very…. Supportive." She admitted. Lightning stared at his wife. Though he did agree, he would not say that to her. He just remained silent to that. And then it got awkward again. Guido returned and asked if they'd like the usual, both nodded. Guido left them alone again and again. They just sipped their drinks and stared at each other. Looking around at the beautiful town below. For Lightning, if this had been a date with some girlfriend, he would have made up an excuse to leave by now. Sally sighed and sat there. Her smile disappeared as she stared down at the town.

Lightning noticed and asked, "What's wrong?" Sally glanced over at him and smiled, "Nothing. Why?" "Nothing." He replied. And quiet again. Then the musicians for the night came up and began playing music. The beautiful and busty female singer grabbing the mic and spoke, "Any couples out there want to join? Feel free. Let's liven this place up!" The band playing "sway" as the singer began to sing. Lightning looked to Sally and asked, "Should we?" Sally's eyes widened, "No." "Of course not. That's weird." He replied. But.. Was it weird to ask your wife to dance? The couple stared and watched the singer. Lightning glancing at Sally. He had to do something!n This date was terrible! It was so bad! "I'll be right back.." He mentioned before getting up and disappearing for a few moments. Sally set her glass down on the table and sighed. This date was so boring and.. Not fun at all. Tapping her fingers on the table and biting her lower lip. How could she get out of this? Lightning returned and stood next to Sally, giving her his hand. Sally stared at his hand and shook her head saying, "NO.. I don't want to dance.." Lightning snickered and said, "Well.. You have to." "Excuse me?" "Come on. I requested a song. Come on." He coaxed her. Sally sighed and hesitated. The song had ended, it was quiet. But she took Lightning's hand and he pulled her up, pulled her close and began to gently sway with her. Their bodies close and in rhythm together slowly. Then the music started. The singer started in a slower way than normal at first.. Just subtle background piano and the singer "Life…. Could be a dream….. Life… Could be… A dream…" Then the piano began to play the song in its normal tempo as the singer continued the song. Sally looked up into Lightning's eyes and he in her's. Life could be a dream sweetheart. Sally nestled her head under his neck and into his chest…. Every time I look at you, something is on my mind, if you do what I want you to baby. Sally closed her eyes and went with his sways. Feeling his body with hers, his warmth against her. People watched of course. The couple was famous. Sally's eyes teared up. Lightning could feel her sniffling and beginning to cry. Tell me that I'm the only one that you love… Life… Could be a dream… Sweetheart…. Lightning wrapped his arms entirely around his wife and kissed her head as the music came to an end. Guido noticed the stared and quickly grabbed the attention of the crowd by juggling wine bottles on the bar table.

Sally wrapped her arms around Lightning and her crying became full. Her tears pouring into his shirt. Lightning swooshed her quietly then guided her to her car where he placed her into the passenger side. Then he got into the driver side. Her crying was loud and hard. Lighting reached over and pulled her close. Letting her have a good cry in the car as he held her. She was so broken. He just.. Didn't know she was this broken right now…..

The couple returned to their home. Lightning watched Sally walk to the bedroom. She was hurting and not able to hide it for the rest of then night. Lightning sighed and let her go for a moment before going to run her a bath. He frowned and stood there in the door way fo their home. Honestly… He wasn't sure he could fit this. After the past year… Things were not the same between them…He needed help.. he needed advice… He needed.. Out of this darkness. He needed Sally to be happy again and to cheer her up. But how?……

It was late. Sally was passed out asleep in bed. Lightning sat up and glanced at her. He sighed and smiled at her. She was gorgeous. He quietly snuck out of bed and outside the house. To have a smoke. He lit the cigarette and breathed in it's pleasure. Thinking to himself. Trying to think how to fix this. But maybe there was no answer. Maybe this was a time thing. He went into his garage and grabbed out his pills, taking them then into the kitchen and grabbing a beer. Not knowing that Sally was in the back corner. She saw him. She saw the drugs, the drinking… The darkness overtaking his heart. She frowned and quietly went back to bed….

And it's gonna be close!!! The winner of the 2015 cup is Lightning McQueen!! Shouted the announcer! Sally jumped up and down, cheering on her husband form the pits! The crowd cheered and screamed for the race! Seven cups! Seven!!! Lightning pulled the car into the pits and hopped out of the car where his crew jumped with pride and excitement! Rusteze proud of the racer that Lightning had become! Sally jumped into Lightning's arms and the couple kissed passionately in the pits! Lightning taking his wife in his arms and spinning her around for the show! Cameras came and flashed tons of pictures, mics shoved his way as everyone wanted to talk and interview McQueen after such. Victory!

Lightning sat down with the press and let one of the women interview him real quick. She used the mic back and fourth asking, "How does it feel to become tied with Stri Weathers and Earnhardt?" Lightning smiled answering, "It feels amazing! I am honored to be tied up with the greats. Truly." The woman then asked, "Any plans for next season? We heard we got some great new rookies coming into the picture." "Nah, just um.. Somebody's got to teach those kids how it's done." "And that might as well be you, huh?" She asked. Lightning just shrugged. The lady then asked, "What are the plans for the break? Any new training techniques?" Lightning smiled answering, "Not sure yet. But I guess next season you and all the fans can find out." "I guess so." Suddenly two small cannons of confetti went off behind him, making Lightning jump a bit. Cal and Bobby running for their lives after popping the confetti cannons at their friend like that. Lightning shook his head and laughed a bit. Those guys were fun…..

Lightning stared at the newspaper of the cup race. The front photo was him jumping from the dam confetti canons. Lightning glared at it and growled, "I'm gonna kill those two." Sally glanced at it and tried not to laugh at the picture. "Look," She pointed out, "It says '7 time cup champ'." Lightning glared at her and rolled his eyes. That was a very unflattering photo of the racer. But fans thought it was funny and cute. Sally took the paper and tossed it next to her on the couch. She and Lightning watching RSN and getting a peak at some of the new rookies coming in next season. "Looks like a good group this year." Sally spoke. Lightning nodded and agreed with, "Yeah, they look like most of the rookies we get. Eager and ready to get their dreams crushed." Sally slapped Lightning gently across the chest for that one. "Not that long ago you were a young rookie, mister." She reminded. Lightning scoffed, "Yeah, but I was actually good." "Okay, Super star. I'm gonna go get dinner going. Going to be a busy break this year." "Yeah?" "Yup." Replied Sally. Lightning sighed and turned up the volume as Sally left the room. Just watching the latest of RSN….

So in the end, Sally and Lightning decided to do thanksgiving with the McQueen's and Christmas with Carrera's. Breaking it up and taking a vacation to themselves between the two to Florida.

Lightning pulled into his Mom's drive way. Most the family would not arrive until the day of. Lightning and Sally got out of Sally's car and stared at the house for a moment.sally glanced at Lightning then asked him to grab the bags. He nodded and went to the rear of the vehicle. Monty walked out to the porch and greeted, "Hey, you two." Sally smiled and greeted, "Hey, Minty!" Minty crossed her arms and glared at her daughter in law for a moment before walking down the steps and giving Sally a friendly hug. "How are you? You look good. It's been a while." She reminded. Sally nodded and apologized, "Yeah, sorry.. Lightning and I have been.. Busy." "I know." Minty replied. Lightning walked around the vehicle, carrying their bags. Minty hugged her son and asked, "How's my baby boy?" Lightning sighed answering, "I'd be better of you didn't call me that. Chad walked outside and chuckled, "Well, you are the baby." Lightning glared at his older brother. Chad sacred at Sally a moment then greeted, "Hey, Sally. Nice to see you again. "You too, Chad." She replied. Minty then grabbed one of the bags and rounded everyone up inside. Once situated, Sally and Lightning and Minty sat in the living room with some tea. Minty asking the couple, "How are the two of you doing? Lightning has told me some things. I'm sorry to bard in with that, but… I really want to know if… We might have any… Issues come up during thanksgiving dinner." Sally and Lightning glanced at each other then Lightning answered, "No issues, Mom. Sally and I have worked out a lot of things." "And?" Minty added. Sally sighed and announced, "No more trying. We… Decided together that things are better without that," Minty sighed and nodded. Honestly, she couldn't agree more with everything Lightning had said had been going on.

"So what's new?" Minty asked. Lightning shrugged. Minty giggled some then said, "Don't be shy! My seven piston cup champion! I got something for you." She announced then got up and went into the other room for a moment. She came back with a box that was all taped up. "I would have wrapped it, but Chad forgot the paper at the store." She explained as she handed the box to her son. Lightning snickered replying, "You didn't have to do that." "I wanted to. Go ahead, open it." She insisted. Lightning hesitated, but pulled the tape off and opened the box. He stared inside at the gift. A little stunned. Minty smiled saying, "It was Robert's. I think he'd want you to have it a long time ago. But… We just found it in storage." Lightning reached into the box and pulled out a small trophy. It was one of Robert's first wins. Lightning smiled staring at it. Remembering when Robert put it on the shelf in his old room. Lightning was young and asked him what was so special about a stupid trophy. Robert placed his hands on his hips and snickered, "Well, Mon. That trophy represents my future. I'm going to become one of the best. Get the big sponsors and make a lot of money." "Are you going to leave us?" "No, of course not. I'd buy a huge RV and take the entire family with me." Robert answered with a smile. "Maybe you can win one of these one day." Robert teased. Little Lightning asking, "Really? Think so?" Robert chuckled before answering, "Sure. Soon as you can reach the pedals."

Lightning stared at the trophy then looked at his Mother and smiled, "Thank you." Minty nodded. Sally placed her hand on Lightning's thigh. It was a sweet memory he has with this trophy and Robert. Sally sipped her tea then asked, "Why does it look different in here?" Looking around the room. Lightning answered for his Mother with, "While I've been here a lot, Chad and I redid the floors." Sally's brows raised. "I didn't know you could do that sort of stuff." She admitted. Lightning shrugged it off as he set the box and trophy with it on the floor. Lightning then stood up saying, "I'm gonna unpack some stuff and take a nap. I'm exhausted from the drive." Minty nodded with a smile. Lightning grabbed his tea and walked to the kitchen to clown it up. While in there, he grabbed a beer and walked upstairs to his room. Sally noticed the beer as he walked by to get to the stairs. He had been drinking more than usual. Minty sighed and looked at Sally a moment. So much she wanted to ask why about, but… Instead just asked, "Do you love my son still, Sally?" Sally nodded answering, "Yeah, of course." Minty nodded without replying to that. Then, "You can help me with dinner tomorrow morning." she said. "Sounds good to me." Sally said with a smile. Minty smiled a little, but she was not happy with Sally at all for the recent events…..

Sally woke up to the feeling of a kiss on her cheek. She looked over to see Lightning. He smiled at her and greeted, "Good morning." Sally smiled back, "Good morning." Lightning rolled over on top of his wife and kissed her lips gently. The two gazed into each others eyes. "Love you." Sally whispered. Lightning snickered and kissed her lips once more before getting up and out of bed. Sally watched him get dressed and asked, "What will you be doing while I help your mother?" Lighting zipped his jeans and slid on his belt as he answered, "Probably just.. Hang out with the guys." "You mean drink?" Sally asked with a little bit of a rude tone. Lightning stared at his wife a moment. Unsure what she was hinting with that tone, "What do you mean by that?" He asked. Sally sighed and rolled over saying, "Never-mind" Lightning stared at his wife. Would she ever be happy? So slipping in his shirt and putting on his shoes before heading down stairs….

Sally looked at her phone. Time to get up and help with dinner for tonight. She got dressed in a button up and black dress pants and ballet flat shoes then headed down to the kitchen. She passed by the living room and saw Lightning with two of his brothers. Two beers on the table. Was one his? Both his? Sally was concerned. But went ahead to the kitchen. Lightning had been staying with Minty a lot lately so maybe she was one to ask if she'd notice anything. Sally walked in to find Minty breaking beans and laying out veggies and fruits on the table. Lightning's Sister Allison helping. "Hey, Sally!" Allison greeted with a cheerful smile. Sally walked over and hugged her then asked, "How have you been?" "Great." Replied Allison, "How is the baby making…" She stopped when she saw her mother giving the cut off your head motion. Sally pretended not to hear it and turned to Minty. "How can I help?" She asked.

Minty pointed to the flour, "Start making the rolls for us." Sally walked over and looked over Minty's recipe. She glanced over at Lightning's mom and cleared her throat before asking, "Has um… Lightning been drinking a lot when he's here?" Minty and Allison both stared at Sally a moment before Minty answered, "My son is a grown man. He can drink as he likes." Sally blushed a little and added, "Of course! I just meant.. I've noticed or I think I've think I noticed him drinking more." Allison looked to her Mother and spoke, "Mom… If Monty is drinking… We can't"-"He's going through a lot right now!" Minty snapped! Allison glanced at Sally with confusion. Sally sighed. She meant her. Lightning was going through a lot with Sally. Allison snarled, "If he is drinking more, going through things is no excuse. He has family he could talk to." Minty looked at her daughter and explained "Not the things he's going through. It's fine. I've talked to him. Letting him relax and drink a bit is fine." Sally frowned. So the answer was yes. It wasn't just Sally thinking it. He was drinking more…..

Lightning laughed at his brother Neil then asked, "So have you found anyone sense that awful date?" Neil shook his head as he sipped his beer. "No. After that one, I think I'm going to just be alone." "Interesting." Replied Lightning. Chad then asked, "While on the subject, think you got any marriage advice for Monty here? He's had some trouble lately." Neil raised a brow and asked, "What kind of trouble? Last I spoke to Mom, the two of you were trying for a baby. Oh…" Neil paused and thought about the time line from when Minty told him about that. "Can you two not.." he began gently. Lightning shook his head and explained, "It's not like that. We have decided not to have a baby right now. And I don't need advice." Lie. Neil then looked to Chad and said, "Seems like you need advice on how to actually get and settle with one woman." Chad shrugged and joked, "I can't help it that I'm to much for a woman to handle." Lightning rolled his eyes hearing that. Drinking his beer before standing up and suddenly feeling a sharp pain in his stomach, "Ou!" He snapped.

Neil stood up immediately and asked, "What's wrong?" Lightning had to take a second to breathe. Clenching his upper abdomen with a facial expression that read pain. "I'm fine. Just give me a sec." He growled. He breathe in and out for a second before finally able to let go of his clench and breath normally. "See. Fine." He assured. Neil shook his head arguing, "No… That's not fine." Chad adding, "I'd trust him. He's a doctor." Lightning glared down at Chad for a moment then back up at Neil he assured, "It was one random pain. I'm fine." Then he sipped his beer and walked out and to the kitchen. Chad and Neil glanced at each other for a moment.

Lightning walked into the kitchen seeing his family there getting dinner prepared. "Hey, beautiful." He greeted his wife as he walked by her. Lightning put the empty can in the trash then walked passed again and kissed Sally on the cheek as he passed her. Minty sighed and ignored them while continuing to cook. Sally frowned, but didn't say anything. Allison awkwardly staring back and fourth between her Mother and Sally. Confused as to what exactly was going on. But something was going on and it was about Lightning and Sally….

Lightning walked up to his room and grabbed his pain killers. Taking them in the bathroom and sipping some water with them straight from the sink. He shut off the water and looked at himself in the mirror. Staring a moment. He sighed. He was tired. Exhausted still. It was like no matter what he drank or took or how much he slept.. He was always tired anymore…..

Lightning made his way downstairs to find that the gang was here finally. Neil, Allison, Chad, and Kristine… And Kristine's new boyfriend. Some preppy looking, short guy with blonde hair that was all done up nicely. Kristine walked up to Lightning and asked, "Would you like to meet my man?" Lightning's face was one of disgust as he scolded, "Don'y say it like that." Kristine rolled her eyes then motioned for her boyfriend to come over. "This is Gabriel. Gabriel, Monty." Gabriel flashed his pearly whites and greeted, "Why Hello, Monty McQueen. It is such a pleasure to meet you." Shaking Lightning's hand softly. Lightning slowly pulled his hands away. Why was Gabriel's hands so… Soft… And why was his voice so… High for a man? He wondered. Chad leaned into Lightning's ear and whispered, "Gay…" Lightning wiped his hand on the side of his pants as if he were afraid to have gay cooties or something. Kristine noticed and scolded, "Don't do anything embarrassing to me." Lightning shook his head replying, "I don't think I'll have to do that for you… This is… Um.. Nice to meet you Gabriel." Gabriel smirked saying, "Oh please. Call me Gabe." Lightning nodded awkwardly. Then Minty came in the living room and announced, "Dinner is ready!" So everyone went to the table and sat down. Minty stood and asked, "Will you all join me in prayer?" Everyone became silent and readied themselves as Minty began, "Dear, Lord.. Please continue to be with all of our family. Those with us and those no longer with us. Keep us close and help some of us grow closer to you in times of need. Ne with our little ones and future generations to come. Help us make good choices and continue to keep us all safe so that we may meet for Dinner next thanksgiving as well. Amen." And everyone began to dig in.

Neil asking Gabriel, "So.. Gabe… What do you do for a living?" Gabriel smiled answering, "Oh I don't work. Not yet. I'm actually working on this article and currently working towards becoming a traveling blogger with photography." Everyone stared at him like a weirdo. Kristine added, "He wants to take pictures of monuments and send in articles about them." Chad quietly mumbled, "That's a job?" "YES!" Kristine snapped. Gabriel quickly added, "It's alright, Darlin'. Your family doesn't understand the concept of art and history being in the same tone." Neil just stared at this kid for am moment. Lightning muttering, "Right…." Gabriel looked at Lightning and asked, "So.. Aren't you that famous race care driver? Seven time champion?" "Yup, that's me." Lightning answered proudly. Gabriel leaned on the table and asked, "The same racer who is aiding in the destruction of our planet? Pouring millions of fumigation onto our earth every week?" Lightning just stared. Not sure how to answer that. "Did you know electric cars are proving to become the better energy and life saver?" Gabriel asked. Lightning's brows lowered as he answered, "Yeah, and they almost killed me." Gabriel went silent. He did not understand what Lightning meant by that. Sally then butted in with, "Neil's a doctor." Neil looked at her with a raised brow. She just shrugged. Gabriel rolled his eyes and complained, "Oh good… Another person using people illnesses to get rich quick. The system of the hospital is not for the care of the injured and sick. You literally go there to die." Chad snickered hearing this little brat complain about everything. Sally cleared her throat and defended, "Doctors do help save lives, Gabe. Sure, there are bad doctors or ones doing it for the money. But some put their entire life into it the the point they would.. Leave their family to save a stranger." "Sure, darlin. Hospital policies say differently." Gabe griped.

Where the hell did Kristine find this dude.

Allison then complimented her Mother, "Dinner is great, Mom. And that was such a thoughtful prayer. Thank you." Minty smiled. Gabriel rolled his eyes and asked, "Why do any of you actually believe there is a god?" Everyone stared at this man like they were about to beat his ass. Gabriel noticed their faces and asked, "What did I say?" Kristine tapped her boyfriend's hand and said, "Maybe.. Try the pumpkin pie…" "Sure. Is it organic?" Gabriel asked Minty with a smile. Minty was about to kill this kid. Lightning could not help chuckle little. Sally elbowed him to shut up. But it was funny. Lightning decided to probe and asked, "So um.. Gabe.. Did you know that Kristine here use to spray weed killer in the fresh grass for fun." "WHAT?" He asked in shock! Lightning nodded with, "Mmhmm. Killing everything with poison. Pretty sure she tried to poison me a few times to." Kristine just glared and snarled, "I didn't try." Lightning stared directly at his sister. Not sure what she meant by that entirely. Sally sighed and asked, "So what are your plans, Kristine?" Kristine crossed her arms and answered, "Not marrying some always gone race car driver who fucks anything in a skirt." Lightning choked on his drink and Minty snapped! "KRISTINE!" "What?" She asked, "We all know he's still a whore." Sally looked at Lightning and asked, "What does that mean?" Lightning shook his head answering, "I don't know. She's a bitch." "MONTY!" Minty yelled! "SHE IS!" He defended! Gabriel stood up, disgusted and snarled, "Why does it feel like I don't know you or fit in with your family?" Kristine answered calmly, "Because no one fits in with this family." Minty growled a bit hearing that. Neil stood up and asked, "Anyone want a beer?" Lightning raised his hand which Sally quickly scolded, "You've already had some today." Monty then scolding her with, "He's a man, leave him alone and stop controlling him." Lightning stared at his mother and asked, "What's wrong with you and Sally?" "She doesn't treat you well." Chad then got up and followed Neil to the kitchen for a beer. Lightning defending Sally with, "We didn't treat each other well recently. We are working on it." Kristine then scoffed, "Whore." Lighting shot her a mean look for that one. Minty standing up and shouted "SHUT UP! EVERY ONE OF YOU! SIT DOWN AND SHUT UP!" She was pissed. Everyone sat down. Including Neil and Chad. Minty sighed and continued, "Everyone be quiet and eat." Then she sat down and continued her plate. Everyone was awkwardly quiet. Just the sounds of forks hitting plates. Chad then cleared his throat and said, "Sorry." "ZIP." Minty snapped.

"But I"-"Nu-uh." Minty snapped again. Lightning snickered and mumbled, "Sheesh.." Minty got up and left the room. Chad growled at Lightning with, "Wait a go, Mon." Lightning snapping back with, "Hey, I didn't bring the gay kid." Gabriel looked at Kristine and asked, "Who is gay?" Then gasped as he realized who Lightning meant! Minty returned with a rolled up newspaper and SMACK across Chad's head then SMACK across Lightning's! "Fuck! Mom! What was that for?" Lightning shouted. Minty then Smacked him quickly five more times on the head. "Okay! Sorry!" He yelped. Minty glared at Lightning then SMACK! One last time before walking to her seat and sitting down. Gabriel stood up and shouted, "I have to get out of here… This family is way to crazy for my delicate well being!" And he ran out the door! No one moved a muscle, but they all looked towards Minty. Minty sighed and nodded before saying, "Well.. I'll be sure to pray for him before bed." Then continued to eat. Kristine looked at Lightning and mouthed, "Your dead." Lightning rolling his eyes at his sister. Chad then added, "I don't think Gabe knows he's gay yet." Minty began to stand, but Neil motioned for his Mother to sit down then WAP, he smacked his little brother across the back of the head. Minty then spoke, "Kristine.. There is nothing wrong with being Gay. It's just not what the Lord intended and not what we approve of in this house hold. But I'm sure he's a good kid." Kristine nodded. Yeah, he was gay and she knew it. She really brought him along to ruffle her brothers' feathers. She had always been a trouble maker….

Lightning moaned as Sally sucked his member in bed. Only not a moan of pleasure, but a moan of frustration. Sally sucked what she could, but it was quite flaccid and gummy like in her mouth. Lightning tried to enjoy it, he tried thinking of something that would make him hard. Anything! But nothing was working. Sally popped his member from her mouth to breathe but before she could go back down, "Stop, just stop." Lightning growled. Sally glanced up to his face and asked, "What am I doing wrong?" Lightning whined, "Nothing. You're doing nothing wrong. I just… I can't, I don't know." He was extremely frustrated in himself. Sally sighed and gave it another try. Suckling his member into her mouth. Rolling her tongue around it over and over. Sucking mostly on the tip.

But Lightning finally had enough and whimpered, "Please… just.. Just-Enough." He snapped. Sally released as he sat up and pulled his pants up. Sally sat up on her knees in bed and asked, "This has been happening a lot, Light… Do you think."-"No. I don't need to see a doctor. I'm fine." He growled before she could even suggest it. Sally wiped her lips with the back of her left hand then asked, "Is it me? You can be honest." "It's not you. I don't know what it is. I think… I think I'm just tired is all." "Yeah, of course. I'm sorry, Stickers." She apologized. She then kissed the side of his face and got up out of bed. Getting her clothes out for the day. Lightning sighed and watched her. Trying to think of why he couldn't get off at times lately and it seemed to be happening more and more when he was with Sally.

Knock, knock, knock. The couple heard at the door. Lightning called out asking, "Yeah?" "Chad's about to head to work if you want to say goodbye before you leave." Minty announced. Lightning sighed before replying, "Yeah, okay. Be down in a sec!" Sally frowned as she stared at her husband and asked, "Are you gonna be okay?" Lightning snickered as he grabbed clothes to change into. "Yeah, I'm fine. I'm gonna change and say bye to my brother before we start packing up, okay?" Sally nodded and watched Lightning disappear out of the room. She sat there alone for a moment. Thinking to herself about what had just happened. Lightning really had been having some problems lately… Maybe there was more to it though… She wondered….

The couple buckled up into the car. Sally immediately taking charge of the radio. Lightning snickered and asked, "What's on the playlist today?" As he reversed out of the drive way. Sally shrugged answering, "Well, it is almost Christmas. Maybe that will help set the mood a little more." "Depends on what kind of mood we're talking." "Based on earlier, I think that mood needs to be addressed professionally." "Professionally?" Lightning questioned as he drove. Sally nodded, "Yeah. I understand those things happen, but… It's been happening a lot with you." Lighting just rolled his eyes hearing that. "It's nothing." "Is it me?" Sally asked. Lightning scoffed with, "Of course not. Don't start asking questions.." Whining in his tone. Sally's brows lowered, but for the sake of the long drive, she let it go…..

Alas, The couple made it to Florida where they drove up to the luxurious penthouse they had rented for a week. Lightning began to unpack the vehicle as Sally unlocked the house and unset the alarm. Walking in, it was beautiful. White marble flooring, Black accent furniture and kitchen cabinets. Open floor and huge of course. Dark cherry looking counter tops, stainless steel everywhere. "Wow. Nice." Sally complimented. Lightning walked up behind his wife and added, "It also has an indoor spa. We can call up one of those spa people anytime and you can have your very own personal massage." Sally snickered, "Well I do like the sound of that." The couple grabbed their bags and took them up to the room. Sally began to unpack as Lightning made himself comfortable on the alaskan king bed. "Tired?" Sally asked. Lightning shrugged answering, "A little. That drive made me a bit tired." "You? Tired from driving?" Sally asked with a giggle. Lightning rolled his eyes with a smile on his face. This was going to be nice. Just him and his wife, just the two of them and a nice vacation to relax and get some space from both of their busy lives of stress. Or so Lightning had hoped…..

Lighting jerked up out of bed. Breathing heavily. "Just a dream?.." He asked himself. He looked down at his wound and looked at Sally. She was still sound asleep. He let out a sigh of relief. Thankful it was only a bad dream. Staring, gazing a Sally. She was beautiful to him still. So why was he having issues with.. Sex with her? It wasn't her, surely. Lightning knew after his dream he would not be able to get to sleep. He glanced over at the clock. 3:45AM. He sighed. He was tired as hell, but whatever. He grabbed his clothes and went to the bathroom to change. Staring at himself in the mirror a moment before grabbing his medications and taking them. Staring at himself once more before headed down to the kitchen and grabbing some tap water. Grabbing his phone and reading some of the latest news. List of the rookies coming into the new season. One to watch was Jackson Storm. He looked funny. Wavy and black silk like hair. His car looked pretty clean though. Lighting continued to swipe through the phone and the news and checking the weather. He should really treat Sally to something special, he thought. A nice and romantic dinner could be good for them. That is, if the press didn't spot them. They could really be annoying at the most worst times….

Sally awoke alone in bed. She sat up in the gold colored silk sheets. Looking around the room. Lighting was no where to be found. So up she got, slipping on her pink robe and walking up to the large window seeing her husband smoking outside. She sighed. She wished he'd stopped with the smoking by now, but just stared at him a moment more before slipping on her slippers and heading down to the kitchen where she began the coffee maker and grabbed a menu that listed the different places to order food from to have delivered. Hmm.. Not many options for a good breakfast. Suddenly the door opened and Lightning walked in. He smiled and greeted, "Good morning." Sally smiled, "Morning." Lightning glanced at the menu she had and whined, "Not much for breakfast, huh?" He asked. Sally shrugged. Lightning walked over to the pot of coffee and fixed two cups, giving one to Sally and she thanked him. The smell filled the room. The most amazing smell in the morning. "So what should we do?" Sally asked. Lightning carefully sipped his hot cup of Joe as he shrugged. Sally sighed and grabbed her phone, looking up things to do in town. Sally glanced over to her husband and asked, "Why were you up so early? Would have thought you might have slept in with me." Lightning stared a moment. He thought about lying and not telling Sally, but fuck it. "I had a bad dream and couldn't go back to sleep." Sally's eyes widened slightly as she asked, "What kind of bad dream? The Prix? The.. Shooting?"

Lightning shrugged answering, "Just.. Us." "Us?" "Yeah, well. The prix and… I almost lost you, but I've almost lost you so many more times than that. I've done some terrible things to you lately. The baby thing and our marriage and"-"Stop. We are not staring this now. No more. I do not want us to fight anytime soon." Sally stopped him. Lightning sighed. A little grateful though. Still, he had almost lost Sally so many other times than just form that stupid prix race. "Why don't we go for a morning walk?" Lightning suggested. Sally raised a brow and asked, "A walk? Sense when do we do that?" Lighting snickered and reminded, "We use to in Radiator Springs all the time. Back before I was famous." He smiled. Sally rolled her eyes and sipped her coffee, "Yeah, exactly. We take a walk, and it's going to be a game of tag with the press." "Nah, it'll be fine." Lightning reassured her…..

Sally and Lightning hid behind large bush of a smaller home. A few press ran by wondering where the couple had went. Sally glared at her husband who smiled like an idiot and said, "People want what the people want." She gently and quietly slapped him across the shoulder and once the coast was clear they stepped out of hiding. Lighting apologized, but Sally laughed abut it. "You aren't mad?" He asked. Sally shook her head answering, "Not really. It's kind of funny. But hey, got our exercise in for the day. I'm starved, let's grab a bite before they find us again." Lightning nodded in agreement. "Sounds good to me, but tonight…" He paused and pulled his love close. "Tonight I want to take you out, okay?" As if he was asking for permission. Sally smiled and nodded, "Okay."