I am so sorry it took so long for another chapter. Life is so hard right now and Christmas was happening. I really wanted to upload this chap for christmas or something, but it was not finished and was only about four thousand words. Now I am considering dropping out of school to focus on myself and the kids and that would mean write more, but then again.. I wouldn't be in college for an entire semester. I have also considered changing my degree and looking into writing as it helps me destress anyway. Why not learn to write properly and start my own actual story/book? But then again... I have no clue what I'd write and making my own characters would be rather hard. Thanks for sticking by and waiting for so long.. SO sorry fam...

Lightning grabbed a coffee, got dressed, brushed hair, teeth, shoes on, quick breakfast, phone, watch, wallet then stared at Sally. She was still passed out asleep and he needed to go speak to Rusty and Dusty. They wanted to see him before he left for the week. Lightning smiled with a sigh, walking over and leaned down to quietly kiss Sally on the head before grabbing a pen and paper and leaving her note on the bedside table and heading out to the tracks...

Lightning paid the taxi for taking him to the track then made his way around to the Rusteze tent. He walked on to see Rusty and Dusty talking with a few older people in the corner. When Rusty noticed Lightning, he smiled and shouted "HEY! Lightnin!" "There's our favorite race car driver!" Added Dusty. Lightning smiled as he walked up to them and greeted "Hey guys. I want to apologize for doing so poorly lately. I assure you its' not a permanent thing." "Permanent?" Asked Dusty with confusion. Rusty laughed saying "We never even thought you might consider quitting racing!" Dusty laughed to explain "We figured it was about Doc." Lightning raised a brow and asked "Doc? So, wait? You guys know?" Rusty and Dusty nodded, Rusty explaining "Doc told us after he told you. He wanted us to know in case anything odd happened out there later in the season." Dusty nodded adding "Yeah, so don't you worry Lightnin. We completely understand." Lightning was a little shocked, but also relieved to see his Sponsors take it so well. "Wow.. Uh.. Thanks I guess. I'm glad you aren't upset or anything." "Are you kiddin!?" Asked Dusty. "We know better than that!" "Besides, we would never let you go." Assured Rusty. Lightning smiled and thanked them, but then wondered. "Was that all you wanted to talk about?" Rusty and Dusty glanced at each other before Rusty frowned a bit answering "Uh, no.. Well.. We worry about you Lightning." "Yeah, and.. We'd hate to see anything bad happen to you out there." Added Dusty. Rusty nodded continuing "So we would like to propose a temporary lay off." "Just until next season." Dusty assured with a smile. Lightning's brows lowered as he questioned. "Wait, what? Lay off? I.. I'm fine to race guys. It was only one bad race." Dusty nodded and Rusty explained "Just until... Things with Doc.. Ease up on you. We wouldn't be firing you, just.. Hiring another driver for the playoffs.`` "What?! No. No, I can win the playoffs guys. Don't you two worry, I can manage just fine, but thanks for the concern and thoughts. I got this though. I mean.. I'm Lightning McQueen, right? I can handle.. Anything.." His voice went lower and he looked hurt. He didn't believe himself anymore. Rusty and Dusty looked at one another then at Lightning, Dusty saying "It's your choice kid. If you want to race, you got it." "Yeah, we're with you one hundred percent Light." Assured Rusty. Lightning put on a smile, a fake one, replying "Thanks guys. I'll see ya'll next week." He then turned and walked out, his fake smile fading with him.

Lightning stepped out the tent and took a deep breath. He could not handle this. Not anymore. And a back up driver? Really? What was it they called it? A temp lay off. That was unreal to Lightning. No matter. He was going to race and he was going to win. For Doc...

Lightning began heading out and grabbed his phone to call a ride when he noticed the dinico girls, old ones and new ones and.. Josie. He stared a moment at her. Things were left so horribly between them and he hated it too. He did it for Sally because it was what she wanted though. Sally came before any and all women. Heck! Any and all people in Lightning's life anymore! Lightning continued to stare and watch her until Josie seemed to notice and stared back. He felt pretty stupid as they locked eyes from afar. Josie said something to the other girls then suddenly began coming closer and closer towards Lightning. Lightning's eyes widened as she walked up and greeted "Hey." "..Hey?" He sounded like he was asking rather than greeting. Josie snickered and asked "How is Sally?" "What?" "After last night?" Josie reminded. Lightning snapped out of it and remembered, answering "OH, yeah.. Uh.. She's better now. I dealt with the racers." "What do you mean? You told on them!?" Josie asked in shock. Lightning nodded. Josie shook her head and sighed. "Oh Lightning... They are going to be after you next week.." "I know.. It needed to be done though.." He muttered. Josie shook her head, disagreeing "Not being rude, but Sally needs to know her place on this track. You boys do those things to piss each other off and she will have to learn to handle it without crying about it or you will get the backlash from it." "I know, but.. I'd rather take it than Sally." Josie stared with a little surprise hearing that. Lightning would rather make things harder on him than let Sally handle a few bullies herself? "Wow.. Okay." "I used to stick up for you too." Lightning reminded. Josie smiled replying "I remember. From fans though, not racers." She added. Lightning sighed and asked "Did you have fun? WIth your... Reunion?" Josie nodded. "Oh yeah. Those girls haven't changed at all." She giggled. Lightning smiled. It was nice. Talking to Josie, but being with Sally. Josie was a friend. Nothing more.

Josie sighed and once again apologized. "Look... I am really sorry about how I acted before with you and Sally. I was so stupidly jealous and.. I shouldn't have ruined our friendship like that. I understand why Sally hates me." Lightning snickered. "She doesn't exactly hate you." "She called me a slutty bitch Baby." Josie recalled as she crossed her arms. Lightning blushed some and rubbed his hand over the back of his neck. "She did do that.. I'm sorry. Sally gets jealous pretty easily lately and things are hard on us right now with Doc so.. I can't really blame her for lashing out, but.. She should have taken it out on me, not you. Thanks for, well. Helping last night." "Of course Baby! And.. What is going on with Doc? That's your coach, right?" Lightning nodded, but then frowned and admitted "He was. He.. Was.." It got awfully quiet after that. The two kind of stood there awkwardly. Staring. Lightning took a deep breath and announced "I should go. I need to get to Sally and we need to pack and head home anyway. Thanks Josie.. I'm glad we aren't on such bad terms like before which was.. My fault and I'm sorry for that." "Yeah.. I wish I could say Sally and I could get along. I have a feeling if so, we could all be good friends together." "Yeah, maybe." Lightning agreed. Josie then hugged Lightning, to which he did not pull away. He hugged her back and mmm. She still smelled amazing like expensive perfume. "See ya around Baby." Josie said with a smile and a wave as she walked away. Lightning waved goodbye as he watched her go. And I mean he WATCHED her go. "Yeah, she's still got it." He mumbled to himself before walking away and back to the motel to the woman he loved...

The large 95 hauler pulled up behind Flo's cafe in Radiator Springs. Lightning thanked Mack before he and Sally exited the truck. They walked hand in hand to the entrance of the cafe where Flo waited for them. She didn't look happy at all. Lightning was first to ask "What's wrong?" Flo sighed answering "It's Doc. He's in the hospital again." Sally gasped! Lightning panicked asking "What? Why? What happened this time?" Flo shook her head, explaining "He passed out. Shanon took him in and he's been there for about two days now. He's not doing so great Honey." Lightning and Sally looked at each other for barely a second before both rushed out the cafe and to the hospital!...

They walked to the desk, got Doc's room number and went straight for it. Lightning didn't knock, just opened the door to see Shanon sitting and reading in a corner and Doc asleep in the bed. Shanon saw the couple and shut her book. The couple walked in and Sally asked "How is he?" "What happened?" Lightning asked. Shanon stood up and walked over before speaking and answering their questions. "He just didn't wake up when it was time for some medications so I brought him here. He woke up a little, but he had a hard time staying awake." Sally covered her mouth with her hands as her eyes teared up. Lightning stared at Doc then back to the nurse asking "IS he going to be okay?" Shanon stared at Lightning a moment before biting her lips and answering "He's.. He's really sick and.. If I were someone who loved him, I'd be preparing myself and others." Lightning's brows lowered. "No. No, Doc said he had months still." Sally grabbed onto Lightning, sort of hiding in his arms. Shanon nodded and replied "That was an estimate.. He knew he didn't have long. It's hard to know how long exactly. He could be like this for a few more months and.. He could not be around suffering like that long. I'm truly sorry.. I am only a nurse.. I can go get the doctor if you'd like?" She offered. Lightning nodded whimpering "Yeah.. Please.. Please just leave us.." Shanon nodded once more before leaving quietly.

Sally and Lightning cried quietly together there for a few minutes. More like soft whimpers than anything. Just holding each other as they stayed near Doc. Doc looked peaceful right now. And Shanon was right, he was suffering. This wasn't fair by any means and all anyone could do is pray for a miracle. Knock, knock, knock. The door opened and a doctor walked in. Sally and Lightning stared. The man closed the door and walked over to the couple. "Hi.. I've been looking over Hudson here. How may I help you?" Sally quickly asked "Is he going to wake up?" "Maybe, probably. He is just very tired and.. Near the end, the body has a hard time waking up." Lightning shook his head then asked "Is there something you can give him? To help him get better or with pain?" Sally added with "Is he in pain?" The doctor sighed answering "He is on some pain medication. The only other option was for him to try different treatments, but I'm afraid he doesn't want that." Lightning suggested that "What if you give him treatment without telling him?" "Lightning!" Snapped Sally. Lightning only continued "Would that buy him more time?" Sally yanked Lightning back and forced him to look at her as she reminded "Doc doesn't want that. You know that Stickers." The doctor then said "Mr. Hudson has chosen not to take or try anymore treatment for the cancer, I'm sorry... I know this can be a difficult thing to process.. May I recommend some therapeutic help? We have excellent people in that field." Lightning growled furiously and whined "You can't just give up on him! You're his doctor! What happens if he dies?!" "We come to that road when we get there. We try to make sure to give cancer patients that choose to.. Let go.. A painless, comfortable death." "Are you kidding me!?" Lightning yelled. Sally grabbed him arm in a way to wordlessly calm him down. Lightning glanced at her and saw the pain and pleading in her eyes. She needed him as much as he needed her. Lightning closed his eyes and took a deep breath before looking at the doctor again and apologizing "I'm sorry.. I.." "It's alright. I understand.. I'm here if either of you need anything. Just press the call button." He said, pointing to the little red call button on the side of Doc's bed. Lightning glanced at it, at Doc and sighed. This was the end of his world almost. His world was ending. Maybe not literally, but it sure felt like it...

Lightning sat in the hall on a bench outside Doc's room. Just to get away and take a break from this. He was hurting. More than he ever hurt his entire life. He suddenly realized one person he hadn't talked to about all of this that he should have been. His Mother. Lightning grabbed out his phone and pulled up his Mother's contact. He stared a moment. How would he tell her? How was he supposed to tell this to his Mother exactly. That Doc's time was even shorter than expected! Lightning pressed the call and it rang a few times before Chad answered.

Hello?

"Hey, It's Li-Monty.. Can you give the phone to Mom, I need to talk to her."

Sure, but what's it about? How did you quit last weekend's race? That was pretty bad Monty. What happened out there?

"Give the phone to Mom, Chad! It's important."

Fine.. Sheesh... MOM! It's Monty!

(Phone fumbles around.. Silence...)

Monty?

"Mom..."

Woah, what's wrong?

"It's Doc Mom. He's not doing so good.."

He told you...

"What?"

Monty, I'm sorry.. What's happening?...

"He's unconscious.. Has a hard time waking up now. The nurses, the doctor.. He doesn't think Doc has long left.."

...

"Mom... Say something. I know the two of you.. Were something.. How do I get over this?"

Oh Mon.. You.. You don't get over it.. You get through it, okay?

"I can't."

You can. You have to Monty.

"Can... Can you... can you please come here? Please?"

I... I don't know if I should..

"Mom.."

Okay.. Okay, yeah, I'll... I'm on my way. I'll be there tomorrow Monty. I love you.

"Love you to.. I'm sorry I just.. I can't.. I don't know what else to do.."

... I'll be there soon baby.

Lightning hung up and wiped his tears as Sally approached. He looked up at her and apologized. "Sorry. I.. I had to breathe." Sally nodded. "Doc's awake." She announced softly Lightning's eyes lit up and he quickly ran back into the room. Sally followed. Lightning stared at Doc who looked so tired and worn out. He walked over greeting "Hey Doc.." Doc breathed loudly and smiled at the racer. "Hey Rookie." Lightning pulled a chair up and sat down saying "You really scared us Doc." Doc glanced at Sally. His eyes were all red and a little swelled. Sally sighed saying "Shanon said you've had a hard time waking up.." As she sat on the end of the bed. Doc nodded and took Lightning's hand in his. "Kid.. Lightning.." "No. Don't do this." Lightning whined. Doc snickered quietly then coughed a few times before continuing. "Lightning.. I want to come to next week's race." "Wait, what?" Lightning asked with confusion. "You want to come to the race?" He asked. Sally then added with concern "Are you sure you can make it Doc? I mean you.. You are not in any condition to be traveling." Doc nodded a little answering "I'm sure. I want to see one last race, real racing. I want to see you race." He smiled at his racer. Lightning smiled back. It was kind of nice, but.. Lightning's smile faded. "Please try treatments.." He pleaded. Sally softly murmured his name, but Doc stopped her and explained to the man. "Lightning, I would.. I really would if I thought it was worth it. I'm accepting this, it's time you did. You all did." He said, looking at Sally. "You quit." He began. Lightning wiped his eyes and honestly in all the emotions of coming home to find Doc like this, he forgot all about last weekend's race. Lightning nodded and tried explaining "Yeah, I.. I just couldn't do it. I need you Doc." "No you don't. Stop telling yourself that. I taught you all I know. You're ready to do it alone. Besides.." His grip tightened. "You won't be alone." He then glanced at Sally. Lightning looked at Sally. His future wife. Lightning sighed and swallowed painfully loud before replying "I'm gonna miss you Doc." Doc smiled replying "I'm going to miss you to kid." Sally sniffled some and wiped her eyes. "Dammit you two." She giggled. Lightning and Doc looked at her. Doc saying "Don't you go tellin everybody about us being all emotional. It's a guy thing. We don't like people knowin we have actual feelings." Lightning chuckled a little. It was a funny joke and lightened up the mood a little, but no matter what anyone would do.. Doc was dying. Doc stared at Lightning and asked "Can you push through those emotions? Those feelings when I'm gone? Or is this it for the great Lightning McQueen?" Lightning shook his head answering "No, I'm not done racing. I just.. I don't know what to do or how to control it. I asked Cal, but he wasn't much help." Doc smiled a little saying "I'm glad you're talking to someone about this though. Glad you're not hiding all of this and getting more and more worked up, but.. Lightning if you quit more races, you will lose points, you will get a bad rep and you will lose fans.. You will be taken out by the President if you cause drama. You.. You.." Doc paused and fell under the spell of yet another coughing fit. Lightning grabbed a tissue box and Doc took a few tissues out and.. Blood. A lot of blood. It was as if the amount was increasing. Doc coughed so hard that he splattered blood at Sally who flinched and jumped off the bed. Lightning pressed the call button for a nurse as Doc continued coughing. "What do we do!?" Sally asked in panic! Lightning stared with fear in his eyes. There was nothing they could do!

The doctor came in and ran to Doc's side. After a few more of what felt like minutes, Doc's coughing spell finally ended, but it left the elderman worn and bruised and weak. The doctor glanced at Lightning and Sally on his way out and disappeared into the hospital. Doc breathed loud and heavy. Sally walked up and took Doc's hand in hers saying "You rest up Doc and I'll see what I can do about you traveling with us next week, okay?" Doc smiled and nodded without any words. He was too worn to speak. Lightning walked up and asked "You want me to stay a while? Just sit with you?" Doc shook his head at first, but then held up one finger and nodded. Lightning and Sally looked at each other. Lightning caressed her the side of her face. "I'll be home late." Then kissing that same side of her face softly. Sally smiled at him, replying "Okay. You better grab yourself something to eat than. Love you." "Love you." He whispered. Sally then looked at Doc and said "Love you Doc." Doc snickered, no words. Sally left and Lightning sat down to stay with Doc for a few hours. No conversation continued. Doc was too weak to talk really. But even just being there with Doc was enough...

Lightning and Sally woke up together in bed. No words.. No greetings.. Nothing. They both just stared up at the ceiling. Both hurting from what was happening with Doc. Lightning sighed. Sally looked over at him. Staring at him. "You okay?.." She finally asked. Lightning looked at her, into her eyes before answering with such an honest "..No.." Sally frowned. She hated that. Lightning then asked "What about you? You okay?" Sally looked back up at the ceiling answering "Not really." Lightning looked back up at the ceiling. Both just staring up at it. Not sure what else to do or say. Bandit began to whimper from across the house in his crate. Sally sighed and sat up, but then Lightning got up and out of bed saying "I got it. You sleep in." "I'm awake." Sally reminded. Lightning slipped on a shirt and grabbed some grey sweatpants and slipped them on. "Well lay in bed a while. I got Bandit and I can take care of the morning run with the motels this morning." Sally raised a brows asking "Really? Because sometimes customers get a little flustered at the sight of you giving them breakfast. Remember the last time?" She asked. Lightning thought back a moment...

Knock, knock. "Breakfast!" Lightning announced from the other side of the door of a cone. The door opened. It was an older couple with some kids. The man was shirtless, kind of on the heavier side and hairy. Every inch of his chest was hairy except his head. Lightning put on a smile and began "Complimentary of The Cozy Cone Mo"-"Aren't you Lightning McQueen?" "Uh.. Well, Yes." "It's Lightning McQueen!" The man shouted. His wife ran over and screamed "Oh my gosh it really is! Clara! It's Lightning McQueen!" Their daughter and another child ran over and were in awe. Lightning was still holding the breakfast tray and asked "If you could just take your breakfast, I'll be on my way.. I have a few other customers to get to." "HEY EVERYONE! It's LIGHTNING MCQUEEN!" The man shouted! Suddenly every customer was all over Lightning and taking photos...

"Yeah, that was a disaster..." Lightning muttered. Sally smiled and got up out of bed. "You take care of Bandit, I'm going to go to the motels and handle breakfast. Thanks anyway." "Why can't we hire someone?" Lightning asked. Sally laughed at the idea. "Why would we hire someone?" She asked. Lightning shrugged. "I don't know.." He answered. "So you wouldn't have to work so much. Think about it, than you could come to my races more often. I'd get to see you more, we could travel together. Like Cal and Meg do." "Meg doesn't work Lightning." Sally reminded. Lightning nodded replying "I know. We make plenty of money. You know you don't have to work, right?" Sally laughed once more. "What else would I do? Sit around like some trophy wife?" Lightning didn't say anything, but part of him wanted her to relax and.. Well be his trophy wife. "You are hilarious Stickers. The day I quit working is the day you quit racing." She joked, knowing he would never stop until he absolutely had to. Lightning sighed muttering "Alright, alright.. I get it. I think after everything.. We are going to need a vacation." He griped. Sally walked up to him and hugged him. Nestling her head into his chest. "I agree Stickers." She whispered. Lightning held her in his arms and kissed the top of her head. "Love you baby." "I love you to Lightning. Hey," She began as she pulled away. "I'll see you for dinner." "Sounds good." Lightning replied then let her go. Watching her walk away to the bathroom to get dressed and cleaned up as she did every morning. Lightning turned away and stared out the window at the desert scene. It was going to be a long morning...

Lightning let the dog out, had a cup of coffee, got dressed, headed to the store and grabbed a few groceries for the home, went to the gym in town and worked out a bit, home and showered, then let Bandit out again, played with Bandit a little then had another cup of coffee and lunch, he called his Mother and she would actually be coming tomorrow. The day before he was heading out to another weekend of racing and this time.. Doc was wanting to come along. It hurt a lot. Knowing the only reason Doc wanted to come was to see ONE LAST race. That hurt a lot to think and over think about. Lightning then grabbed his phone and played on sites a bit, then bored, watched some news... Nothing interesting at all. he then grabbed keys and headed to the hospital.

Lightning walked into Doc's room to find the bed empty which made him worry. He walked back to the front desk and asked "Where did Doc Hudson go?" The man at the desk looked up and answered "Oh, he went home this morning." "Oh. Okay, thanks." Lightning then got back into the car and drove over to Doc's.

He quickly knocked on the door and Shanon opened it greeting "Hey Lightning." "Hey Shanon, is Doc awake?" "No, he's sleeping. I can leave him a message for you, if you'd like?" Lightning shook his head and asked "Is he going to be okay traveling this weekend for the race?" Shanon sighed answering "Between you and me.. It would be better if he stayed here, but.. He really wants to go. You know, you and racing is all he talks about when he's awake with me." "Really?" Lightning asked. Shanon nodded. Now that did make Lightning smile a little. Shanon then assured "I'll make sure to have everything he needs packed up and ready to go. I'm calling hospitals around to see if I can get him a room like that.. So far I can only find nursing homes and we both know Doc won't work with that." "No, he won't.. If anything, the two of you can stay with Sally and I." "Well.. I'll try to find a room first. Thanks though Lightning. I'll call you whenever Doc wakes up." "Thanks and thanks for taking such good care of him." "Of course, it is my job." Shanon said with a smile. Lightning smiled back then headed back to his car. He hated this. Doc was sleeping so much anymore. He hated this entire thing!...

Ding Dong . ... Ding Dong, knock, knock, knock!

"What time is it?..." Sally asked with a yawn as she rolled over. Lightning looked over at the clock as he lay on his stomach then smacked his face down into the pillow. "Four forty-eight.." he growled. Sally let out a sigh saying "Well maybe they'll go away." The couple ignored it, but the door bell rang again, followed by a loud and persistent knock. Lightning growled asking "Who the hell is up at this hour?!" Sally suddenly opened her eyes and asked "What if it's about Doc?..." Lightning's eyes opened quick. He was up now. What if it was about Doc!? What if... No.. Not yet. Not already! Lightning slung the blanket up and jumped out of bed and ran to the door wearing nothing but some red, flannel sleep pants and ran to the knock on the door. He clicked the locks loose, opening the door to the sudden and surprising sight of flashing cameras and reporters! "WHATDOYOUHAVETOSAYABOUTDOCSANNOUNCEMENT?!""HAVEYOUTHOUGHTOFPLANSFORNEXTSEASON!?""ISTHISWHYYOUVEBEENTRAININGUNDERANEWCOACH!?""DOESTHISMEANANEARLYRWTIREMENT!?" SO MANY LOUD QUESTIONS! Lightning panicked and shut the door and locked it. Pressing his back to the door. He let out a sigh and thought. What announcement? Then cameras and knocking at the nearest window. Lightning looked across to see the same reporters there. Banging at the window and snapping photos! He quickly ran over and shut the curtains. Not just that window, but every window in the house! Sally walked out asking "What is going on?" As she rubbed her eyes. Lightning finished closing the last of the curtains then looked towards her and explained "Doc apparently made an announcement and now reporters are everywhere." "What?" Asked Sally in disbelief. She then walked over and began to open the curtain when Lightning grabbed her hand, stopping her. She stared up into his eyes and could see the strangest thing. Fear and heart ache. He wasn't ready to face them. She sighed and frowned a little. "Lightning..." she cooed. He only looked away and released her hand. Sally pulled his face back around gently, forcing him to look at her. "You can do this. We can do this." "It's only going to get worse.." he reminded. "Once Doc passes, they will never leave me alone.. They won't let us grieve." "I know..." Sally whispered then wrapped her arms around her boyfriend tightly in a supportive hold. "I'll be right with you though Stickers." She reassured. Lightning hugged her to. He was lucky and proud and happy to have her. Grateful is a better word. Lightning kissed Sally's head then insisted they get dressed before the ratzi caught anymore photos they shouldn't have...

The doorbell went off at Doc's. Shanon stood up, but Doc stopped her saying "No, no.. I'll get it." The old man slowly stood up from his chair. "I could use the exercise." He admitted before staggering to the door. He opened it and found Lightning. "Hey kid." Doc greeted. Lightning let himself in at this point and closed the door before snapping rudely "Did you announce you're cancer to the fucking world!?" Doc's brows lowered. "Don't you take that tone with me." He warned. Lightning shrugged asking "Why not!? You told someone and they told the press! Now I'm being ambushed with questions about my racing, what I'm going to do next season!" "Well what are you going to do next season!?" Doc shouted into Lightning's face! Lightning only snapped back, yelling "I don't know!" "You gonna quit!?" "NO!" "Gonna go out alone again? Like in your rookie days?" "No! Doc, stop! I don't know!" "Than figure it out!" Doc scolded! Lightning stared into Doc's dying eyes. Lightning swallowed nervously. Thinking as he stared. It wouldn't be long and he'd never be able to see Doc again. The kid suddenly wrapped his arms around Doc tightly and whimpered "I'm going to miss you.. Please... Please don't die like this.." Doc teared up and patted Lightning on the back before hugging him gently. "I love you Lightning.. Trust me.. I've done what I can." Lightning couldn't help but cry. The tears flowed and he whimpered. Crying over Doc's shoulder. Doc really hated it to. He hated seeing Lightning fall apart like this. This was partially why he called and made the announcement. He knew Lightning couldn't do it and wouldn't want to talk about it. So doing this before hand gave Lightning some time to process this. The realization of what was going to happen...

Mater walked into Flo's carrying a small brown box that he got in the mail. He sat it down on the counter of the bar next to the register as he called out "Flo! Flo, you here?!" Flo walked out the kitchen and made her way up to the register as she wiped her hands. "I always am sugar. What you need?" "Is McQueen here? He got this here box in my mail. He told me it is very important that he gets it asap. Whatever that means. Told me to make sure Sally does not get it first." Flo's eyes widened with excitement. "Let me see that box!" She exclaimed with a huge smile as she reached for it. Mater snatched the box up into his arms snapping "Nuh-uh! McQueen put my address and trusted me. I won't never let my best friend down. Why you want the box anyway?" He asked suspiciously. Flo crossed her arms answering "I don't think you know why he addressed it to you, do you?" She asked. Mater glanced at the box a moment. "No, not really." He answered. "Do you know what it is?" He asked. Flo glared at Mater anserting "Maybe. Why don't you leave it here and I'll give it to him next time he comes in for a drink." Mater glanced at the box once again before answering "Nah I got it. I promised him I'd get it to him and that's exactly what I'm gonna do." Flo sighed, replying "Alright. Well he's not been in here sense yesterday, but there are a lot of cameras out today. He's probably hiding out right now." "Yeah, you probably right. I'll just swing by after breakfast. Hey, can you bring me some of them eggs. The runny in the middle kind but not all mooshy like?" He asked as he set the box on the counter. Flo nodded answering "The way you always order them. I'll have them right out. You just go make yourself at home Mater." Mater smiled at Flo before she walked back to the kitchen. He then walked away to grab a seat.

The little bell went off at the front door and Minty walked in. She looked around to see if she would see Doc. He wasn't here though. She sighed with some disappointment. Doc was dying and it hurt her. She walked up to the counter and tapped the little bell next to the register. She noticed the box. Addressed to Lightning, but it wasn't his address. "That's strange." She muttered. Then it hit her and she gasped! It had to be the ring! Minty stared at the box, but then the little bell went off and she glanced over to see Doc and some woman in what looked like scrubs with him. Minty stared and Doc noticed her to. The older two stared at one another for a moment. Speechless. Doc walked over slowly and sat on the barstool there next to the register. "Evening." He greeted. Minty stared at him. Facing him. A smile slowly crept onto her face. Flo walked out with a plate of eggs and noticed the two. "Hey Minty, hey Doc. Be right with the two of you." She said as she walked by. Minty paid no mind to Flo. She was just gazing into Doc's eyes. Lost in them. She reached and took one of Doc's hands in hers. "Evening old timer." She greeted. Doc smiled up at her. Sheriff walked by and noticed their hands and asked "You let me know if he gets any wild ideas now." Minty and Doc glanced are sheriff. Minty giggled answering "Oh will do Sheriff." Sheriff stepped behind her, noticed the box and glanced at the label that was adress to Lightning, but had Mater's address. That was odd, he thought. Minty continued to gaze into Doc's eyes and asked "How are you doing?..." quietly. Doc sighed answering "Well.. Not so good if I'mbeing honest.. Won't be long now and everyone in this town and out will hear the news.." "You gonna tell them?" "I told a reporter and.. News travels fast.." "Oh Hud... That isn't the way to tell your friends." Minty whined. Flo reappeared and asked "You two want anything to eat or drink?" Minty shook her head answering "No, not me. I was just going to ask if Lightning had been by yet." "Not today." Answered Flo. Doc then said "Probably due to the press.. He did come see me this morning, but he wasn't happy. He is who everyone should be worried about, not me." He warned. Flo frowned asking "What do you mean there Doc? We are worried you might overdo yourself or wind up back in the hospital sooner rather than later." Doc nodded, but explained "I'm going to die and once I do that's it. Lightning however, is breaking apart and it's too close to the playoffs. If I past away during or before the cup, his driving is going to be nothing but reckless. Have you not seen his last races?" He asked bluntly. Minty looked afraid and at this point, Doc figured she should be. Maybe fear would drive her to get Lightning back on track mentally.

Doc sighed and explained to Minty. "I called the reporter because it was the only way I could tell the public. All my friends already know anyway.. I had to tell the world for Lightning." Minty sighed with a frown. Doc stared at her and wondered why she was even here. "What brought you here anyway?" He asked. Flo walked away as Minty snickered answering "My son called me in tears. He wanted me to to come. He told me you weren't doing so well Hudson.." Doc frowned and admitted "I reckon I don't have long... But I'll make the most of it." Minty smiled a little. Just gazing at Doc. Doc missed her and he was so thankful he got to see her again. "I didn't think I'd get the pleasure of seeing you again Minty." Minty giggled quietly. "Well I'm here. At least for a few days." Doc took her hands in his and made a surprising suggestion. "Stay with me." Minty's eyes widened and she pulled her hands away. "What?" She asked. Doc took her hands back once more and repeated. "Stay with me. Please." "Hud..." "I love being near you Minty.. I forget I'm old and that I'm dying when I'm with you. I forget that things aren't so great for a little while. You make me happy Minty. Stay with me tonight." "Hud... I.. I can't watch you die.. I just can't.." she whispered. Doc hurt badly hearing her turn him down. He pulled his hands back gently in shame and embarrassed. Minty sighed and said "I have to see my son... I'll call though. I promise. I'll at least think about it..." She assured then turned around to grab the box, but it was gone! Minty panicked and looked all over the counter. The floor, the other side of the counter. Doc had to ask "What are you looking for?" "The box! The box addressed to my son!" "A box for Lightning?" Doc asked with confusion. Minty grabbed Doc's shirt by the collar and explained into his face. "THE box for lightning! Not any old box." Doc took a second or two, but then he got it. The box. The box addressed to Lightning, but under Mater's address. The box with the ring. The ring he purchased to propose to Sally. The engagement ring. The ring in the box, the box with the engagement ring. Doc looked at the counter then said "Sheriff did walk by. Maybe he took it?" He questioned...

Sheriff got into his patrol cruiser and tossed the box into the passenger seat before turning on the car. He shut the door, buckled up when he saw Sally's car pull up to the diner. Almost immediately, she was crowded by cameras and reporters. Sally opened the porsche door and tried to hide her face and walk by, but the crowd of people made it impossible! Sheriff growled aloud quietly to himself before getting out of the car and stomping over to the crowd and yelling "Hey! Back up and give the lady some space before I arrest you all!" The reporters seem to listen thankfully. Sally sighed with relief and thanked Sheriff saying "Thanks. It has been crazy sense Doc announced his condition earlier." Sheriff snickered saying "You have no idea. I had to got out to his place this morning. It was terrible. These people are more like termites or bed bugs. Annoying and hard to get rid of." Sally giggled and thanked the man once more before Sheriff stopped her saying "Hold on, I have a package for Lightning under Mater's address. I was going to take it up to the post office before you showed up. You want to just give it to Lightning later?" Sally shrugged answering "Sure. If it's addressed incorrectly, it's probably just fan mail junk. What kind of package is it?" She asked as Sheriff guided her to the cop car. He opened the passenger door as he answered. "Just a small medium box." But there was no box in the seat of the car. "What!?" Sheriff asked in shock! "But I put it right there!" He shouted! Sally glanced at the empty seat then at Sheriff. She patted his shoulder saying "It's alright Sheriff. It was probably junk anyway." She then walked back to the cafe diner where she went inside and hoped to avoid all ratzi. Sheriff was dumbfounded. He could have sworn he tossed a box into his cruiser...

Mater walked down the road, headed towards his scrapyard and tossing around the small box in his hands. "Wonder what's in this thing anyway?" He asked himself aloud. What could be so important to not let Sally see, he thought. Mater walked into his scrap yard and to his shed of a home. He turned on the light and placed the box on the counter like shelf on the side wall. He stared at it and wondered aloud. "Would McQueen be all upset if I opened it? I think he told me what it was.. Did he? Dang, I can't remember nothin." He groped. Mater grabbed his old phone and dialed up Lightning's number. It rang a few times before he answered.

Hey Mater, now isn't really a good time.

"Oh. Well your box showed up."

Box? Oh! That box. Great, uh.. Maybe you could bring it buy the house now?

"Right now? Sure, I'd love to see you anyway. You know we haven't hung out in a while McQueen. Think maybe that's what you need to cheer you up."

No, it's... I.. Yeah, okay.. Maybe. But whatever you do, do not loose that box Mater. It's very important.

"I ill not loose it again. I promise."

What!? What do you mean loose it again? You lost it!?

No. I have it here. But I went over to Flo's about an hour ago of that and had to get some eggs even though it's not really breakfast time anymore and I set the box on the counter next to the register and forgot about it. I actually was leaving the doner when I saw it in Sheriff's cruiser, but he was busy with Sally, So I grabbed it and took it back to my place where it would be safe. I think I saw your Mom talking to Doc to."

Ugh.. Okay, look.. Can you bring the box here now.

"Well I sure can. I'll be there in a few, then we can do some best friend stuff."

Uh... Sure Mater. Just I have to leave tomorrow for the race. I can't be up too late.

"I understand."

First thing first.. The box.

"Right! Be there faster than you can say pickle in a Christmas tree!" And he hung up and ran out the door, almost forgetting the box again...

Lightning opened the front door to see Mater and a bunch of cameras flashing. "Boy! You sure are getting famous-er now." Mater exclaimed. Lightning's brows lowered as he pulled his friend inside the house and shut and locked the door. Keeping the flashing cameras and annoying reporters out. Mater questioned "What are all them here for?" Lightning took the box from Mater answering "Doc told them about his cancer. They are selfish and heartless people wanting the scoop on what I'll be doing without Doc. Hey, thanks for doing this for me." Referring to the box. Mater smiled proudly saying "Ain't nothing. What's in it anyway?" "Not here. Let's go to to the garage." Lightning suggested. The two went in the cold garage where the beat up vette sat. Mater stared at it asking "You ever gonna fix that thing?" Lightning glanced the car for a moment before shrugging. "Eventually." He said then grabbed a pocket knife out and began opening the box up. Mater watched curiously. He pulled out another box and opened it to another box. Only this box was small and dark blue velvet. Lightning opened it gently to see the ring. Mater's eyes widened. "You really are gonna ask her, aren't you." As if he finally remembered. Lightning smiled as he stared at the ring a moment. "Yup. I'm finally going to do it." He replied. The ring was absolutely beautiful and made for Sally. (I'll go make one up online and set it as the cover of the story soon)

Mater placed a hand on his friend's shoulder saying "I'm happy for you Buddy. Sally is amazing to. You two sure are perfect for each other." Lightning shut the box and sighed. His smile faded. Would Doc even live to see that? Their marriage. Lightning looked around him. "Now I have to hide it some place she won't ever look." He explained. Mater stared around the garage and asked "Does she come in here?" Lightning nodded answering "Not often. But she does spend time in here with me when I'm busy on the car sometimes. Um..." he looked around. Where could he put the thing that she won't look? Tool box? No... she hands him tools from there sometimes. Car? No.. she rides in it a lot... shelves? To open. It made him think and wow. He didn't have anything private and to himself anymore. Sally was over everything and was everywhere. Sheesh. "I'll hide it in the roster trailer later I guess." He then slipped the box into his pocket for now. Mater then asked "You want to go do something fun now?" "No, I can't leave the house." "That's fine. I'll find us a movie on that smart TV of yours." Mater exclaimed and took off into the house. Lightning sighed and took the box out his pocket and opened it, staring at the ring. "Marry me.. Will you.. Marry me?" He muttered. He hated his voice. He sounded broken. He sort of was right now. He frowned and closed the box. He was in no place to be asking Sally to marry him. This thing with Doc would push that. He had planned to ask her next week after the first play off race, but.. He thought about it and what Doc had said and with everything going on. He decided maybe.. Maybe wait a while more... It would be best to wait. Bbbbzzzzzz. Bbbbzzzzz. Lightning grabbed his phone out of his pocket to see his Mother's name before placing the phone to his ear.

"Hey Mom."

I'm outside your house, but there are a lot of news people out here. What is going on?

"Doc made-you know what, just come in through the side of the garage. I'm in here anyway."

Okay, see you in a moment.

Lightning hung up then unlocked the door and waited a moment before opening the door and letting his Mother inside. "Oh Monty." She cooed as she hugged her son. "How are you doing baby?" She asked. Lightning sighed answering "I'll, I'm okay." "Did you get a box yet? I saw it at Flo's but then it kept disappearing and I won't lie, I panicked a bit." Lightning chuckled answering "I did Mom." Then showed her the blue velvet box. Minty gasped and covered her mouth. "Can I see it?" She asked. Lightning nodded and opened the box. Minty's eyes teared up. "Oh Monty, it's beautiful. She is going to love it." Lightning stared at his Mom and a smile came to his face. "I sure hope so." He admitted. Minty took the box and looked at the ring closely. "How real is it?" She asked. "You didn't cheap out like you were going to do for that other girl back home?" Lightning rolled his eyes before answering. "No Mom. It cost nearly 6 grand, but I wanted the best for her." The ring was a round 3/4 carat diamond of the best quality resting on a 14k white gold head with a double halo of diamond stones, single mounted with a peek a boo princess shaped diamond underneath on a 14k rose gold metal with a scroll design engraved outside and the words "always and forever" engraved on the inside.

"And you designed this?" Minty asked. Lightning chuckled answering "Yeah. Took a few days. Well, a week or so really, but.. I think this one is perfect." He smiled proudly in a subtle way. Minty shut the box and handed the velvet box back to her son. Patting his hands gently as she said "She will love it. I'm proud of you Mon. This is a good thing and she's an amazing woman. She'll take care of you." She smiled. Lightning snickered a bit. He knew she was right. Sally was more than amazing. "You still asking after this race?" Minty asked. Lightning sighed and frowned. "It was next week's, not this one and no.. No, I... I think I should wait now.. Just.. A lot going on with Doc and.. Now these stupid reporters are asking me what I'll do next and.. I don't know.. I.. I really don't know Mom.." Minty hugged her son again saying "It's going to be okay, no matter what.. I may stay with.. With a friend tonight." "I have to leave early morning Mom. I have a race, a job still.." minty sighed as she still held her youngest son. "Okay. I'll come along." Lightning pulled back with wide and surprised eyes. "Really!?" He asked. "I don't think you've been to any of my races sense college!" He exclaimed. Minty crossed her arms and corrected "Now that's not true. I've been to a few that have come by to the home track. What time you all heading out. Is Sally coming?" She asked. Lightning shrugged answering "I think so. If she doesn't have a lot of work to catch up on. I told her I wanted her to come to the play offs.. But.. It doesn't matter now anyway." He said depressingly as he glanced at the box before placing it in his pocket. Minty sighed then placed her hand on the side of her son's face. "Don't let this break you. I know what happened to Robbie was hard on you.. It made you act out. Don't do that now. You're older and have a life with an amazing woman... A great career and I don't want to see you let this destroy everything you have worked for. Why don't you come home for a while. Stay with me and Chad. It may be good for you Mon." Lightning pushed his Mother's hand away replying "No, I'm fine. I won't get that.. Messed up. I'm fine, I'll be fine." Minty raised a brow then looked over at the beat up car and muttered. "Something tells me that may not be entirely true.." Lightning sighed and he looked towards the car. Suddenly Mater reappeared asking "Hey! We gonna watch that movie or-oh. Hey there Mrs. McQueen. Are you going to watch the movie to?" Minty snickered answering "No Mater, but thanks. I have a few places around town to see then I reckon I'll be heading to bed early to get up and pack up with Monty here." She patted her son's chest. Mater nodded saying "Okay, but if you change your mind and come back, bring some of that orange soda stuff. That stuff is the bomb." He joked then ran off. Minty giggled and sighed saying "That man is a wonder. Well. I'll see you tomorrow morning Monty. You get rested up and don't lose that ring." "I won't." He assured as he watched his Mother go. He locked up behind her and thought about that ring for a moment more before heading in the house to watch whatever movie with his best friend...