The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 68: Food City 500 (Con’t)

Sunday, April 15 – Bristol Motor Speedway

It’d been a quiet period of time waiting for the rain to pass, but it also didn’t seem like it’d be stopping anytime soon. It was at that time that NASCAR made the decision to regroup and come back on Monday to try and finish the rest of the Food City 500.

“Considering the car is wrecked and we’re out of it, we could just pack up,” Kenny suggests, catching a glance from Chase. “I know you’ve been through quite a bi-”

“Everything that happened last week has no effect on me standing here right now, or coming back tomorrow,” Chase cuts him off, which caught the crew chief by surprise. Kenny could also tell that it wasn’t the full truth, either. “Besides, we are spending another weekend working together. Let’s use tomorrow as practice for getting to know each other more, and then maybe we can make something work in Richmond.”

“If that’s what you want to do, I’m as committed as you are and I’ll see you tomorrow.” Chase nods his head with a small smile as he goes to head off. “Chase?” Chase then stops, glancing back towards Kenny. “I have no clue what happened this past week, or what Alan and Jordan know. But I will say this – whatever it is that happened between yourself, Sarina, and Alison, I hope it works out. I hope that you’re able to work your way through whatever feelings you’re having. I hope they’re able to find her so you can put your mind at peace. If you want to talk, you know my door is always open…”

“I appreciate that, Kenny, but I’m going to be fine.” Chase takes a pause, followed by a deep breath as everything flashes before his eyes once again. “I don’t think I could bring myself to talk to you about it, if I’m being honest. I just can’t find those words. But I appreciate the offer.”

“Anytime. Remember, we’re all family and we will do whatever we need to do for each other.” Chase nods his head, not needing a reminder considering Alan’s past couple of instances.

Monday, April 16 – Bristol Motor Speedway

Chase shakes his head as he glances out the window of the motorcoach. It was supposed to be nicer weather today, and get the rest of the race done – but yet it seemed worse. How did they get to the point of sleet falling at Bristol?

He then hears a knock at the door, and rolls his eyes at first. He had half-expected it to be one of the crew members with concerns for him, giving his distance through the weekend. Could you blame him for what had happened just the week before? And how could you expect him to say something? It wasn’t something he wanted everybody knowing.

He was caught off-guard when he opened the door, though, seeing his dad standing there instead. Since seeing his parents at the hospital after he woke up, he hadn’t seen them much since, focused solely on the racing that weekend and wanting to avoid everything concerning Alison.

“Hey,” Chase says quietly as he backs away from the door, watching his dad follow him back up inside.

“Hey,” Bill replies as he keeps his eyes on Chase, watching him closely. “How are you?” Chase sits down on the couch, half-expecting the conversation to come.

“I’m alright. I told you on Friday that I was fin-”

“I know what you said, Chase. I listen when you talk to me. But it’s been some time since then, and clearly everything has been on your mind more than likely. Can I guess that it’s still bothering you?” Chase lets out a sigh as he looks back out the window.

“I woke up Friday night, as well as last night in the middle of the night because I was thinking about Alison. I was worried that she was going to show up once again. I was worried that she’d try to do something even further pushing because of her frustration in what happened. I was also sick and disgusted about what happened.” Chase then looks back towards his dad. “Is that what you wanted to hear, rather than my cover-up that I’ve told everyone?”

“It’s a start, if I’m being honest. We talked about it when you woke up in the hospital – your feelings, what happened, and the fact that you pani-”

“I was scared for Sarina. I had just watched her get shot after being kidnapped for a whole week. That didn’t have to do with what Alison did.” Bill takes a deep breath, trying to stay as calm as possible despite being frustrated as ever with Chase.

“Sure, that explains what happened. But what about Jordan and Alan finding you in the bathroom, sick and disgusted, having been up crying most of the night? That’s what worries me, Chase. The fact that you’re avoiding dealing with those feelings by putting it off as if nothing happened. I bet you haven’t said anything to anyon-”

“I brought it on mysel-”

“She sexually assaulted yo-”

“I made the deal, didn’t I?” Chase takes a deep breath as he glances back out the window. “I accepted it for Sarina’s safety, and I have to live with the consequences, whatever those may be. I’m dealing with it.” Bill rolls his eyes as he knew that wasn’t the case.

“Avoiding discussion isn’t dealing with it, Chase. You need to get a battle handle on it. When I mentioned what she did to you, you couldn’t even look me in the eye. You were about to break down in tears – but hey, there’s nothing remaining right? I let it go that day at the hospital because you were right, seeing Sarina was the most important thing that day.” Bill reaches out and places a hand on Chase’s, catching his attention. “Stop hiding it. I know you’re hurting, and it hurts me more than anything to see you like this…”

“I just want to forget it happened. I just want to find out that she’s been caught and I never have to see her again. Can we please just not tal-”

“Avoiding the topic isn’t going to make it go away, Chase. You need to talk about this with someone.” Bill reaches with his other hand into his pocket, pulling out a booklet and placing it down on the couch, catching Chase’s attention.

“There’s no way I’m talking to a complete stranger about this, Dad…” Bill takes a deep breath.

“I know it’s a daunting task, but that’s why there are psychiatrists. They can help you with your feelings because even beyond what she did this past week, she’s been messing with you for awhile now. Everybody can see that.” Chase rolls his eyes.

“Right, because that’s just how I am. Nobody believes that I can handle this and am stron-”

“Are you serious right now? Listen to yourself for a second. If you ask me, I have no question about how strong you are in how you’ve been able to face what she’s thrown at you, and keep everything else in your life in order. Not a lot of people could say or do that. I’m just trying to give you a way to stop fighting the silent fight anymore. Talk to someone, please. Take this number and call it, or talk to me, talk to Sarina, talk to your mom, talk to Jordan, or even talk to Alan. Just talk to someone and address your feelings, please…”

“I’ll think about it, okay?” Chase takes the booklet and places it up on the table. “Dad, I’ve got this. I don’t need you treating me like a kid anymore. I’ll be fine…”

He then stands up, grabs his phone and sunglasses off the table, before heading out to go to pit road. Bill could only glance in the direction he headed, and let out a sigh.

“Bill?” Sarina asks, catching his attention. “Please tell me he’s going to be okay….”

“He’ll be okay,” Bill replies as he gets up and walks over to her. “I know he’ll be okay. I just wish he would make it easier on himself…”

It was a long day, but their attitude paid off as they were able to gain some positions – and with every point mattering to qualify for the playoffs, they weren’t going to complain. But even with that said, Chase was certainly glad to be heading out of Bristol.

“I love you,” Sarina comments as he comes out of the back room after getting changed out of his firesuit.

“I love you, too,” he replies, lightly kissing her lips as she wraps her arms around him.

“You’ve been here for me through everything, and even are still here for me. I wouldn’t be able to make my XFINITY Series debut next weekend if it wasn’t for you being there, holding my hand, listening to me, letting me grow, and helping me be a better person. I can’t thank you enough for everything that you’ve done. We’re a team, Chase, so let me be here for you now. Talk to me about Alison, your feelings, your fears, how you feel. I’m willing to listen to you.” He watches as she lays her head against his chest, letting out a sigh as he rests his chin on top of her head.

“I wish I could just tell you everything, spill my guts out here and now. I wish I could just make the feelings go away by pouring them out. I wish I could do what you want – but I can’t. I can’t bring myself to say what happened….” She then glances up into his eyes.

“Is it because of the shame? Or something else?” He shrugs his shoulders as he wraps his arms around her.

“I don’t know, honestly. But I do appreciate you being here, and I love you. Nothing will ever change that.” She then lays her head back against his chest.

“Chase, I’ll always be here, forever and always….”

Friday, April 20 – Richmond Raceway

Chase makes his way into the garage area, a smile fixated on his face as he stops by the car.

“I don’t want to be insensitive here, but that smile normally means something….” Jordan starts as he leans over from the other side of the NAPA Chevrolet. He had wanted to make the dip in that something had happened, but didn’t want to push his luck just yet. He could only guess that the topic of sexual contact was still a sensitive subject.

“Check the XFINITY leaderboard and then get back to me,” Chase offers, earning a curious glance from Jordan. However, he did as requested, seeing that Sarina had ended both XFINITY series practice sessions ranked third on the board.

“She looks like no damn rookie out there!” Chase shakes his head no with a smile of his own.

“And the odd thing? She wasn’t using the bottom lane. Justin pointed it out, and I noticed watching, that she was using the middle groove instead of the bottom.” Jordan was now even more impressed as he kept his eyes on his driver.

“Are you going to try and steal a secret from your girlfriend now?” Chase just gives him back a wink as Jordan laughs. “Hey, whatever makes ya happy is all that matters, right?”

“We just need to survive this week and our boss is back next week.” Jordan nods his head in agreement as he makes his way over to Chase.

“You know, Alan told me to keep an eye on you.” Chase glances over intrigued. “He was worried about how you were feeling, and how Kenny would treat things. I mean, we both know what happ-”

“I don’t want to talk about tha-”

“Let me guess – you haven’t said a single word about that to anyone all week, have you?” Chase lets out a sigh as he lays his head on the roof of the car. “As Alan predicted. Look, we’re both just worried about you and being that we’re the only ones that know besides Sarina and your parents, we’re the only ones that can truly be here for you – unless you tell someone else.”

“Jordan, please…..” Jordan places a hand on Chase’s shoulder.

“I know you’re going to take your time and do this at your own pace and do whatever the hell you want with it. But please, don’t keep putting it off. You’re just going to make it worse. It’s like you’ve always said – don’t give someone the power to eat at you. What have you been doing with Alison for months? Don’t give her this power.” Chase glances over at the interior mechanic.

“And how am I supposed to just remove that power without question? The minute that I go to let my guard down is the minute that she strikes and does something.” Jordan nods his head, having seen the pattern over the past couple of months.

“So making yourself sick in thought is better? That doesn’t sound healthy, Chase. But hey, it’s your life.” Jordan walks away as Chase just lets out a long sigh.

Hopefully he wouldn’t have to deal with this much longer as he’d get the news they’d been waiting to hear all along. For now, though, he could use his racecar as a good distraction with the pair of practice sessions.

The first practice went amazing as he was comfortable in race trim through most of the session, and managed to top the speed chart with a qualifying trim run at the very end.

The second practice didn’t show the speed on the chart (25^th), but that wasn’t Kenny’s focus as he was more focused on getting Chase comfortable over the long run. Given the pair of the practices, he had to admit that he was confident going into Saturday night’s race.

Chase makes his way into the garage area, hopping up onto the shelf with a sigh as Kenny glances over.

“For someone who just qualified second for the race, you don’t look happy,” Kenny comments as Chase looks over his way.

“Trust me – qualifying second is great, as is Sarina starting up front tonight too,” Chase replies as Kenny was now confused. “There’s more to life than that, though.” Kenny hated to intrigue on his driver’s personal lives when he worked with them, but the confusion pushed him to do so anyway.

“Enlighten me…” Chase rolls his eyes as he wanted to just forget about it.

“Media center, post qualifying. Did you not hear how they implied cheating on purpose, pressure getting to us, tension in the team?” Kenny nods his head, having watched the feed, and laughed through it all. “Alan and I have the best friendship, ever, and yet we’ve got to deal with that? They don’t understa-”

“When did it matter to you what they said, Chase? They’re just fishing for a story.” Chase lets out a sigh as he knew that was the case.

“I also had the autograph session – which by the way, it went great for the most part as the fans were awesome. But of course, someone has to remind me that she’s alive.” Kenny was now ultra confused, and even a little worried.

“Alison?” Chase lets out a sigh as he nods his head, pulling his phone out of his pocket. He loads a photo of the note, having handed the original over the authorities, before handing the phone over to Kenny. “Just because I’ve left you alone for a couple weeks doesn’t mean I’m done with you. We were just getting started…” Kenny looks up at Chase. “Did she hand it to you herself?”

“No, she left a note lying around with my name on it and someone handed it to me – typical Alison style.” Kenny just shakes his head in disgust as he hands the phone back over.

“That’s just sick and retarded. But hey, everybody is watching for her-”

“They have been for the past several months and we’ve had nothing happen. She was within feet of police officers and managed to escape.” Kenny almost felt his barrier drop immediately as he watched his young driver.

“For whatever it is worth, I believe it will work out. she’ll be found, caught, and eliminated from your life – and she won’t pull anything else ever again. I know that because of how many people have your back, and how strong you are. No matter what she throws at you, you can push it away.” Chase glances up at the crew chief.

“I used to believe that, until she played my greatest weaknesses and vulnerabilities against me. Now, I don’t know how much I can take…” Kenny almost wanted to reach out, but resisted doing so as he wasn’t sure where things stood with them together.

“You’re still standing here, right? You’re still pushing forward. You were able to keep a straight face all last weekend. That should say something, right?” Chase wanted to believe that as he kept saying that, wanting to use that strength to actually move forward, but he also felt stuck.

“What if while I put on this great front it is tearing me apart inside slowly? I can’t even begin to describe how sick she makes me feel. The thought of her makes me sick to my stomach. I don’t even want to think about the feelings that I had….” Chase takes a deep breath as he feels the emotions coming to the forefront once again.

“But the only way that you’re going to see them through-”

“I know I need to talk about them to someone, Kenny. You’re not the first person to tell me that. Sarina has told me that. Jordan has told me that. My dad told me that. Alan told me that. But how do you talk about something that makes you so sick?” Kenny wasn’t even sure where to go with it as he shook his head.

“I don’t know because I’ve never been in your shoes before. You could always make sure you’re comfortable, knowing that she can’t hurt you from memories, knowing that you will be okay.” Kenny then looks over at Chase with sympatric eyes. “I wish I could tell you some magic cure…”

“I wish there was some potion that I could drink that would make me forget everything that happened – every single motion, feeling, entrapment. But I can’t get that wish either.”

“Life isn’t meant to be easy, Chase. But for what it’s worth, you have the right friends around you and I know you’ll find that answer you’re looking for.”

“When?” Kenny shrugs his shoulders.

“I don’t know, but hopefully sooner than later. Stay strong, it’ll work out…” Kenny then heads off, leaving Chase to think over his thoughts.

“I hope you’re right, Kenny…..”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 67: Food City 500

 

Sunday, April 15 – Bristol Motor Speedway

It was a new day, and already it felt better than last week. For 500 laps, he would be in his own little world. Couldn’t complain about a distraction right now, right? Even with the threat of rain, hanging around with Ryan and Joey was a great change of pace.

“Do you have any dirt on Ryan?” A new voice caught him off guard. He glanced over his shoulder, seeing Darrell Wallace.

“Nothing new,” Chase replied, which wasn’t a lie. Where was the time lately?

“He locked me in my motorcoach. I had to climb through the door above the toilet to get out.” Chase couldn’t help but laugh in response. “It’s not funny, Clyde.”

“Oh no, it’s just a shitty situation.” Darrell rolls his eyes as Chase chuckles again. “Are you sure Ryan did it?”

“It’s right up his alley….” Chase knew from experience, but still wasn’t positive.

“He’s also been consumed lately with a distraction.” Darrell smiles as he glances over at Lindsay and Sarina on pit road. “I can’t believe they’re still together.”

“I thought he told us this relationship was impossible.” Chase nods his head, remembering the discussion. “Somebody else said the same thing and now you’re engaged to her.”

“I know, and I would do anything for her, too.” He takes a deep breath, knowing he couldn’t linger on that right now. It was time to have a fun afternoon.

Unfortunately, the fun didn’t last long as Michael McDowell got loose on Lap 4, collecting Chase among others. Sarina was already cursing up a storm on the pit box, even with both Jordan and Josh trying to calm her down.

“Mcfuckell finally qualifies good and he still can’t drive a wooden screw!” She lets out, visibly frustrated.

The team made as many repairs as they could, losing a couple laps in the process, before going back green flag racing. The day didn’t look to be improving as Chase began complaining of an exhaust leak, telling the team they better fix it next caution. That yellow came at Lap 45, which was the scheduled competition caution. Rather than time to make repairs, the red was flown for rain.

“I feel terrible,” Chase says as he stands on pit road with Kenny Francis. “I couldn’t see or do shit. I thought I was clear, but nope – somebody else had better ideas. I literally don’t get what happened there.”

“You met the class clown,” Kenny comments, earning a couple chuckles. “There was nothing you can do. We will salvage what we can and move onto Richmond. Josh has an idea to fix the leak so we will do that once we go back racing. If it doesn’t work, we’re done.” Chase nods his head before heading off with Sarina.

 Rain delay fun didn’t take long to be found, following an offer from Brexton to come play with him.

“Ah shit!” Samantha lets out from the kitchen. “How does one forget to buy eggs if they’re making cookies?” Sarina shrugs her shoulders.

“We’ve got none or I’d help you out,” Sarina offers.

“Why don’t you girls go to the store?” Chase suggests, catching them both off-guard considering the past week. “I’ll watch Brexton.”

“Are you sure about that?” Samantha questions and Chase nods his head.

“I can keep my eye on him.” Sarina, meanwhile, looked like a bucket of nerves.

“What about Alison?” Sarina wonders as Chase takes a long deep breath. He didn’t need that reminder right now.

“I’ll be fine,” he assured her. “Besides, I have everybody around here on the lookout. Go and have some girl time…”

“Okay.” Sarina then gives Chase a small kiss. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

The girls get ready and head out soon after, leaving Chase and Brexton to the spread of toy cars on the floor of the motorcoach. It didn’t take long for the girls to reach the car, or head out set for a trip to the store. However, there were other thoughts on Samantha’s mind.

“You know that you can talk to me always….” She casually let out, catching Sarina’s gaze immediately. “I heard the hesitation with Chase in your voice.”

“Can you blame me given the past week?” Sarina questions and Samantha shakes her head no.

“I don’t know what I’d do in that situation. I’d probably go crazy.” Sarina knew that feeling, but for other reasons.

“I almost did in worry for what she was going to do to me. Then it changed in worry, panic, fear for Chase when she told me details.” Samantha glances over confused.

“I heard that Chase had contact with her all week…”

“If she saw him, I was fine and saved. She used me as leverage to get to him.” Samantha felt an instant wave of shock in hearing that small detail.

“I don’t want to know, do I?” Sarina lets out a sigh, shaking her head no. She didn’t want to say it, but she needed to get it out to someone and knew Sam wouldn’t tell anyone.

“She sexually assaulted him, Sam. She made him kiss her. She made him enjoy bodies rubbing against each other. Then, in front of me, she stuck her hand down his pants and rubbed him. It’s one thing to feel physical pain, but it’s another feeling and watching that.”

“Sweetheart, I don’t even know what to say….”

“I felt like I was going to be sick – heck, Chase has gotten sick over the thought of it. I felt violated, betrayed – but yet it was him going through it and not because he had chosen to.” Samantha takes a careful deep breath.

“It’s understandable because of how much you love him, and how much you care about him, and that bond. It’s like she broke that privacy barrier.” Sarina nods her head as she looks down at her ring.

“When we first saw each other afterwards, he didn’t say a single word. He just slipped the ring back on my finger, holding my hand, completely silent.” Sarina glances up and at Samantha. “He’s always been the strong one. He’s always helped me. Now it’s role reversal and I feel helpless…” Samantha reaches over, placing a hand on Sarina’s.

“Just be there. Listen to him, hold him, comfort him, let him cry, make him feel safe. It sounds so simple but that’s all it takes. He will come around when he’s ready.” Sarina nods her head, hopeful, feeling her heart cringe.

“The worst feeling is knowing my touch scares him. I went to kiss him at the hospital, and he pulled away initially. He won’t say it, but it affected him. He can’t stand that simple touch now. Its a reminder, I guess…”

“He’ll come around, Sarina. Give it time. Take a slow, be assuring, comfort his fears. You’ll reach that understanding with him.” Sarina hoped that Samantha was right.

“I guess I just want that connection back so badly for selfish reasons.” Samantha smiles a little.

“Hey, I don’t blame you. Every girl is like that – no matter how much they’re there for their man. Kyle was dealing with his leg surgery and healing, and yet I wanted everything that I had before no changes.” Sarina smiles, having heard stories of that time.

“You had an excuse. You were pregnant.” Samantha smiles.

“I chalk some of the begging and tears to that, but I don’t think it was all that. Face it – we’re both spoiled. Our guys treat us as Queens and we can’t get enough of it. Now it’s your turn to repay Chase for everything…”

“I won’t hold back…”

At the track, Kyle had finished up his chats with the crew, as well as some fellow drivers, and decided to go check on Samantha and Brexton. He makes his way to the motorcoach, letting himself in, as he makes his way inside.

“Sssssh,” he hears and looks on surprised in seeing Chase lying on the floor beside Brexton, with Brexton passed out. “I finally got him to calm down and take his nap.”

“I’m impressed,” Kyle comments as he sits on the couch. “Where’s Samantha?”

“She went to get eggs to make cookies.” Chase had just realized that the girls had been gone longer than expected, but a text message in response to the photo of Brexton passed out had kept his nerves calmed. “I think they got sidetracked.”

“Isn’t that normal?” Chase chuckles as he sits up.

“Actually, it may be good. Sarina is still a little upset about what happened…” Chase lets out a sigh, as Kyle crosses his arms.

“She’s not the only one….” Chase shakes his head no.

“I’d rather not talk about it, though.” Chase trusted Kyle and liked their friendship, but not too tell him what happened with Alison.

“Hey, that’s fine….” Kyle smiles as he looks towards Brexton. “All I can do is say I hope it gets easier, I hope they find her, and you can babysit anytime.”

“I may hold you to that offer.” Kyle chuckles a little. “He may be cheering for me more than you…”

“Hey now, easy there…” Chase just smiles. “Say, I challenge you to game of NASCAR Heat.”

“Challenge accepted.”

Couple rounds later and the call was given by NASCAR for drivers to their cars as the track was dry.

With the call being made to get back going, the No. 9 crew began repairs – though a little early as the red flag was still being displayed. As a result, they were issued a one lap penalty from NASCAR. The team didn’t let that deter them, making the necessary repairs.

“NASCAR wants you to back up in the stall,” Kenny comes over the radio, as they were set to serve their penalty.

“Is there anything else that I can do for them today?” Chase snaps back after following the orders as requested. It was clear that the remainder of this race would be no fun.

With the penalty served and damage fixed mostly, he returned to the track to make laps and hopefully make up ground. Sarina had one eye on him, but also another on Ryan as he was in dominate form with the lead. Since Chase couldn’t win, she’d have no problem with Ryan winning. However, just like Chase, Ryan got caught up in someone else’s mess, wrecked while trying to put a bunch of cars a lap down.

“Did someone let out the clowns today or what?” She asked in total disbelief. “Ridiculous!”

It didn’t take long for the race to get back underway – or stopped again, with a second flag flying at Lap 204.

“Did we get it fixed decent enough?” Josh asks and Chase nods his head.

“It’s actually driving pretty decent, considering,” Chase answers earning an glance of approval from the crew. “What happened to Ryan?”

Jordan took the liberty of explaining, which earned a glance of shock and disbelief from Chase in return. He was then intrigued by what the interior mechanic had to share about others upfront and the nature of the track thus far.

With the discussion behind them and hopes of staying dry, the decision was made to retreat back to the trailer.

“Hey, are you okay?” Jordan asks as he lingers behind the others with Chase.

“I’m fine,” he tells him as Jordan takes another solid glance.

“Are you sure? I mean, I know how tore up you were-”

“Jordan, I’m fine. I’m just focused on making the most of today right now. We can worry about that later – or really not at all.” Jordan wanted to scream in response as he knew taking that approach wouldn’t help. “Just promise me you haven’t told the guys.”

“I would never break your trust – as long as you promise to come to me if you need anything.” Chase takes a careful deep breath. He did have one wish.

“I just want to forget what happened, how she made me feel, and rid of her out of my life forever. But wait, I can’t do that because she could be hiding around the next corner planning another attack. If you want to know the truth, there’s no way I’m going to feel completely over what happened until I know she can’t do anything to me, Sarina, or anyone ever again. Will that day come?” Jordan hoped and prayed, but still didn’t know for absolutely certain anymore.

“I know everyone is doing what they can. It will end soon, Chase.” Chase wanted to believe those words, but it seemed distant and repetitive given the past couple of months.

“I hope you’re finally right….” He then heads into the hauler, joining the rest of the team. Jordan wanted to continue the conversation, but for now respected his driver’s wishes.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story — Chapter 66: Zombie 150

Thursday, April 12 – Nashville, Tennessee

Bill sat by the bed as quiet as could be, just waiting for something, anything out of Chase. He knew he would be waking up soon, and could only imagine what would be on his mind.

He didn’t have much longer to think about what to say, as eyes were slowly opening before him.

“Where am I?” Chase’s first words were as he pulled against the restraints that bound his wrists.

“Easy…..,”Bill encourages as he places a hand on each of Chase’s, staring him straight in the eyes. “You’re in the hospital. Take a deep breath and calm down, you’ll be ok.” Chase tried to focus on his father’s words, but the restraints didn’t feel comfortable.

“Can you get these removed, please? Why the hell are they even on me?” Alan sneaks out of the room as Bill keeps his eyes on Chase.

“Panic attack. In case you woke up freaking ou-”

“Sarina!” It was like everything that happened came to him that minute. “Dad, please….”

“She’s okay. The bullet just glazed the shoulder. Some stitches, no internal damage, and a bandage, and she’s good to go. Kyle and Sam are with her. She’s okay….” Chase nods his head. That was all that mattered as he had done everything for her.

“Alison?” Bill takes a deep breath, knowing this wouldn’t go well.

“She got away.” Chase was ready to curse up a storm, cry, anything as that meant the games weren’t over yet. “They told me when you woke up, they wanted to check you ov-”

“I’m fine, Dad. I just want to see Sarina.” Bill understood, but felt more comfortable following the doctor’s instructions.

“Let them check you out, please. There may be something you haven’t noticed. Also, I would accept the preventative STD medicine because you never know, right? A test wouldn’t hurt anyone, either. Isn’t peace of mind meaningful? They also want to give you a tetanus shot due to what happened, and they ordered a rape ki-”

“She didn’t rape me-“

“She still sexual assaulted you, molested you – everything possible without actually raping you. There are still a lot of effects. You don’t need to pretend it doesn’t bother you.” Chase glances away from his dad, feeling the familiar hot tears. “Chase, talk to me, please….”

“All that matters is Sarina is oka-”

“You may have accepted her offer, done what you believed was right, but you don’t need to suffer alone.” Chase takes a deep breath as the doctor comes in.

“I’m fine…”He then holds up his hands as high as he can. “Can we get this over with, please?”

The entire process didn’t take long, but it was still longer than Chase would’ve preferred. The constant prodding, pokes from needles certainly weren’t well received. However, eventually he was left to the condition they didn’t want to him leave yet, but he could go see Sarina.

It wasn’t a long walk to her room, but it may have as well been. It also didn’t hurt that reaching her room, he stood frozen in the doorway, thankful she was okay, but also disgusted at what had happened due to Alison’s intensions for him. Taking a deep breath, he gets his wits about him as he watches both Kyle and Sam exit together. He then slowly makes his way in, sitting beside her bed in the chair.

“Chase……” Sarina says quietly, reaching her hand out to touch his. “I’m okay, trust me.” He pulls the pink diamond ring from his pocket, slipping it on her finger slowly. “Say something….”

“I’m glad you’re okay,” he says quietly, before kissing her hand. “You never should’ve been put in that situation.” She knew he blamed himself, just like the last time. Except now it probably felt 10 times worse.

“Chase, it is not your fault, none of this. You don’t need to shoulder the blame, just like you told me about my brother. Don’t do that to yourself.” He takes a deep breath, slowly nodding his head. ”I saw what she did. I know she did more beyond that. You don’t need to be strong for me, Chase. You can tell me how you feel.”

“Disgusted, sick, violated, angry, upset – I couldn’t sleep last night because I kept picturing it over and over.” He then glances down at her hand. “I broke our commitment to us, and I think that hurts more than ever.”

“I’m not mad at you. I know why you did it. There is no telling what she would have done otherwise. So I actually thank you for being willing to suffer through that for my sake. I love you, Chase.” She then leans over, kissing his cheek lightly. His breath hitched at the first simple thought of her touch, but calmed in how tenderness and light she was. He even stayed relaxed when she went in for a second kiss, this time on the lips. “It doesn’t change how I feel about you. If anything, I thank you and am proud of your strength. We are going to be okay. You will get through this.”

“Thank you…..” He then looks up, smiling a little as he looks into her eyes.

“Now, can we cuddle already?” He nods his head, climbing up in the bed beside her. “Whenever you want to talk, I’m here for you.”

“I just want to hold you….” She had no reservations about that, allowing him to wrap his arms around her, laying her head against his chest. “I heard the news about your XFINITY debut. I’m proud of you. You absolutely deserve that opportunity.”

Friday, April 13 – Bristol Motor Speedway

Chase walks into the garage, ready for a weekend of fun. Anything to rid of the thoughts of the past week was welcome in his books. He also wasn’t about to take for granted that Sarina was back with him, too.

“Should you be here?” Kenny Francis asks as he watches the pair walk into the garage. Chase just glances over at Sarina a little surprised before looking back towards the crew chief.

“I’m fine, Kenny,” Chase says as Kenny just nods.

“What about you?” Jordan wonders as he walks over to them.

“My shoulder is sore but I am fine,” Sarina says. “It’ll heal eventually but I am ready for this weekend.” She then gives Chase a little kiss on the cheek. “Have fun.” She then heads out, ready to find her crew.

“First run in 15 minutes,” Kenny says before walking away to find Josh. Jordan, meanwhile, had his eyes locked on driver with secret in hand.

“Are you okay?” Jordan asks as he wraps an arm around Chase’s shoulders.

“I said I was fi-” Chase starts, almost annoyed. Jordan was making this harder than necessary.

“You don’t need to hide it with me…..” Chase lets out a sigh as he leans back against the car.

“It’s better today than yesterday, okay? With knowing she is back, she is okay, and we are going to be fine – it helps. But I would be lying if I said it doesn’t bother me at all. I still feel sick thinking about it, but I accepted the deal so I’ll deal with it. And before you start, I know it is not my fault as it is Alison’s for manipulating me based on my emotions, but I still need to convince myself of that.” Jordan nods his head accepting, as he leans back beside him.

“Well, I’m always here for you.” Chase takes a deep breath, debating if he should say something.

“You know, it affected me more than I realized. I thought having Sarina back would make me feel better instantly. But when she went to kiss me, I pulled back. I was almost scared to feel her touch. How is that fair? I love her, I know I am safe with her – but I couldn’t almost stand her touch and that was a simple kiss. What if I do the same when she wants more?”

“Give it time, you’ll come around. It’s all part of the feeling of disgust, betrayal. You’ll grow comfortable again.” Chase glances out of the garage.

“I just wish they’d catch her already. I think that’s what bothers me the most is the fact she is still out there, lingering, and could do something agai-”

“You can’t let her get into your head like that. She isn’t going to get another chance.” Chase lets out a sigh.

“I wish I could believe you….” Chase then fixes his shoes once more before climbing in the car.

The Cup practice went smoothly, as he and Kenny found common ground quickly. Despite wishing they had more speed being 26^th on the board, he couldn’t complain too much about the handling being that it was just a little snug.

He then spent the K&N practice atop the hauler, eyes focused on his girl. While she had kept assuring him that morning she was fine, he couldn’t help but be nervous. Sure, the bullet had just glazed her skin – but that was a bullet regardless how you said it. What if she was more sore than she was willing to admit? Thankfully, though, her thoughts were more accurate than his, as she ended the session second on the charts behind Harrison.

The rest of the day went smoothly, as Cup qualifying saw no issues with a solid top-20 effort. Of course, the evening was made sweeter by Sarina winning the K&N pole.

“Are you okay?” Chase asks her as they head back to the motorcoach following photos.

“Is that even a question after watching me win the pole?” She questions and he just chuckles, before turning back serious.

“I mean it…” She glances over, clutching his hand.

“I’m okay, trust me. I may need some ice tonight but I am fine to run 150 laps tomorrow. I just need you to change the bandage.” He nods his head, accepting. That wasn’t a bad compromise.

Saturday, April 14 – Bristol Motor Speedway

It was no lie – last night was longer than Chase hoped for, unable to sleep with thoughts swirling in every direction. Sarina offered as much comfort as she could, and eventually he was able to get to sleep.

“We could get Justin to run the car,” Kenny suggested after hearing details.

“I’ll be fine,” Chase assured him. “Besides, we need to get more time together.” Chase then climbs in the car, getting the belts all tight.

“Is he always like this?” Jordan just nods his head.

“He will use racing as his distraction until he is ready to tell us,” Jordan comments. “He’ll be fine…” Jordan then kneels down, ready to stick to business as usual.

The pre-practice worries didn’t last long, as the speed was there immediately, with Chase timing in 10^th and second quickest in the two sessions. It was also nice to have time to not think about Alison, but rather focus on the car and adjustments. The post-practice breakdown was filled with so much fun, it went longer than anticipated – with Josh being the one to realize the XFINITY race had finished, and the K&N race was ready to go.

Knowing he wanted to see her before the green, Chase hurried out to the grid as everyone was getting ready to go.

“I just want to pop in and say good luck,” he says, catching her attention.

“How come you haven’t changed yet?” She wonders, surprised.

“I was having fun with the guys….” She smiles as it was actually nice to see him having fun with a good distraction. “Go kick some ass, okay? I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

Not even caring that he was still in his firesuit, he made his way up on top of the pit box, ready to take in the action. The race started off well with Sarina leading the first 50 laps. Unfortunately, she would get a little too tight, fading back to third by the checkered.

Standing on pit road post-race, she couldn’t help but be disappointed. But there was no sad faces in knowing she got beat by her besties, Todd and Harrison. She even chuckled when Todd offered to share his sword with her, if he got to keep the trophy and zombie.

“You can use it on someone,” he said with a slight chuckle.

“Yeah, that’d be perfect,” she replies, noticing how Chase tensed up a little. “Are you okay?” He nods his head as he takes a deep breath. She then wraps both her arms around him, leaning her head against his chest. “We are going to be okay, Chase. We have each other, always.”

 

The Tale of Love and Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 65: “How did you know?”

Thursday April 12, 2018 – Nashville, Tennessee

Jordan grips the door handle, turning it as he enters the adjoined room with Alan in toe. Given how late in the morning it was and not a single word heard from Chase yet, the pair figured they better check on him.

They hear what could be assumed to be tears coming from the bathroom – taking a glance at each other, before making their way in that direction. Jordan glances in the room first, feeling his heart break immediately.

“Chase?” He calls out quietly, earning a small glance from Chase as he glances over their direction. Chase could only let out a sigh, leaning back against the wall as he runs his hands through his hair. There was no strength left anymore to put on a good face for them. “Are you okay?”

“This is just making me sick to my stomach,” Chase confesses as he lets out a sigh. Jordan slowly makes his way into the bathroom, sitting down on the floor beside him. “I tried to sleep last night – but I kept thinking about what happened, and I couldn’t Jordan…” But rather than it being his worry about Sarina as they probably thought, the sickness was solely based on Alison.

“You should’ve and came and got us. We would’ve come and sat with you, or tried to do something…” Alan nods his head agreeing as Chase lets out a sigh. Why was it so hard to say the truth?

“I appreciate that, but you’ve both already done so much for me that it wouldn’t have been fair.” He also felt bad in knowing that he’s been lying, too.

“Like I told you before, and I’ll tell you until my face is blue – we will do anything for you, and keep doing it as long it makes sure you and Sarina are okay,” Alan states as he leans back against the wall. “I meant those words, Chase. Somebody doesn’t dodge a bullet and not run for no reason.” Chase feels his breath hitch in his throat, knowing that was the first time Alison tried to pull one of these moves. Then came the comments in court, followed by this past week – which brought the vomit back up stream again.

“Easy….” Jordan comments as he rubs Chase’s back, watching the young man throw whatever was still left up. “Breathe, Chase, it’s going to be okay…”

Jordan then stands up and walks over to the sink, grabbing the washcloth and running it under the cold water. His eyes immediately caught a bit of a pink shine on the counter, glancing that way as it was so familiar. It brought a smile to his face as he recognized it immediately, but then brought confusion.

“Alan….” He whispers just loud enough for the crew chief to hear, catching Alan’s attention. He points to the ring on the counter, which results in the crew chief looking back confused as well.

“I’ll handle this,” Alan whispers back as he takes one glance at Chase. Seeing him sitting on the floor shirtless trying to calm the fears again, he noticed the mark on his collarbone and immediately remembered Alison’s words in court. “Please….”

Jordan knew by the crew chief’s reaction that he wanted alone time with Chase as there was a theory in development – even if he had no clue what Alan was thinking. Regardless, he followed direction and slowly made his way out of the bathroom.

“Take a deep breath, relax, take another deep breath,” Alan offers as he rubs Chase’s forehead with the cloth. “Just take a series of deep breathes. She’s going to be okay, as well as you.” Chase tries to follow direction, but the images of the past couple nights fill every thought. He closes his eyes, attempting every bit of focus, feeling the coolness on his forehead, followed by his cheeks. He then feels it go away, flinching a little and almost jumping a bit away from Alan as it returns on his back.

“I’m sorry – I’m just a little jumpy,” Chase quietly replies as Alan takes a deep breath himself. It seemed with every reaction, his theory was building to be even more true.

“It’s okay….” Alan keeps running the cloth along Chase’s neck, followed by down his back, trying to do whatever he could. “You’re safe with me and Jordan. We won’t let anything happen to you – we promise. You’re safe, we would never hurt you, or let someone touch you…” Chase slowly glances up and looks towards Alan. The hurt that Alan saw behind the brown eyes almost brought him to tears.

“How did you know?” It wasn’t the response that he was expecting, figuring he would’ve had to claw the details out of Chase, but it confirmed the theory as Alan stared back, almost in shock.

“The mark on your collarbone seemed a little out of place, and you were sitting here nervous and pretty much sick in thought. I was there in the trailer, and I was there in the court room. Sarina wouldn’t just let the ring go easily so I know Alison would’ve given it to you, but not without earning something in return.” The hot tears that were previously there the night before begin to trickle down again. “How far did she go?”

“Not all the way, but far enough….” It was like a punch in the gut for Alan in hearing that detail – especially considering he was in the next room over as this happened. “She made me strip down to just my boxers, lie on the bed, and then pushed herself on me, moving against me, kissing me….” His breath quickens as the tears fall even harder. “She didn’t rape me, Alan.”

“But she went far enough that you felt every sensation that goes along with that. Chase, it may not be rape – but it still has the same consequences of that happening. Sexual assault is sexual assault one way or another, and brings those feelings, and fears..” Alan wraps an arm around Chase’s shoulder, pulling him close. “And I can tell you right now that no matter what you’re feeling, you’re going to be okay. Everything is damn well going to work out and you will get through this – I promise. And it’s not your faul-”

“That’s a li-”

“Listen to me-”

“Alan, I accepted the deal from her to allow her to do that for Sarina’s safety.” Alan looks over a little confused. “She has simply tied up Sarina, stole the ring, and just left her- and will continue to do so as long as I agree to her game each and every night. I agreed because it gives me comfort in knowing Sarina is okay until the police find her.”

“So she has this power over you, rips you apart from the inside mentally and physically? Someone once said that you can’t let someone control you, or else they’ll keep doing it. That’s what you’re doing right here and now.” Chase nodded his head, knowing that – perhaps that tore him apart the most about this.

“I just want Sarina to be oka-”

“But this isn’t a solution, Chase. We need to tell the police what she’s been doing so they know just how twis-”

“No, nobody finds out about this Alan, please.” Alan takes a deep breath, understanding the fears and almost was ready to agree. But one look back at Chase and he knew that wasn’t going to work here.

“I know it’s going to be the worst thing ever telling them, but you need to. How else are they going to understand just how crazy Alison is? Furthermore, you need to go get chec-”

“No, not at all. I’m fine….” Alan looks at him a bit of surprise. “I’ll be fine.”

“You need to let them look you over, please…” Chase shakes his head no as he lies his head against the wall. “Besides, the more evidence the bett-”

“I took a very long hot shower last night before trying to go to sleep. I didn’t want to feel any part of her on me ever again…” Alan glances at Chase.

“Please let me say something so you can stop living this nightmare, please….” Chase lets out a sigh as he nods his head.

“I can’t do it, Alan. Can you pleas-”

“Absolutely. Chase, I’ll do whatever you need so you can feel better.” Chase takes a deep breath as he tries to stay calm.

“Can you make the memories go away?” Alan lets out a sigh as he slowly stands up.

“I wish…” Alan makes his way out of the bathroom, finding Jordan sitting on the edge of the bed. “I’m going to tell you something, and then I want you to go back in that bathroom and just hold him, let him cry, be there, do whatever he needs. I would do it myself, but I promised him that I would take care of this.”

“Whatever he needs,” Jordan states as Alan takes a deep breath.

It was only a small span of time, but Alan wished he never had to go through doing this. Then again, the pain of saying what happened and thinking about Chase’s feelings was onl small in comparison to what Chase was going through right now.

After detailing everything to Jordan and making sure the mechanic had a good hand on taking care of Chase, the rest of the pieces fell into place.

Alan made the hardest phone call first, revealing the details of what happened to Cindy and Bill. Between the anger and pain he could feel in Cindy’s words, and watching Bill even choke up a little despite his calm demeanor, Alan wished he could take back every ounce. However, he knew Chase’s support circle and knew that those within it would be the most important in moving forward. He knew that included Ryan and Darrell, and didn’t make that call for the time being. That would be up to Chase to handle.

He then called the investigator, asking for a meeting at the hotel. He depicted the details in full, even showcasing the text messages that Chase had received from Alison through Sarina’s number to develop the trail.

“Where is Mr. Elliot-” The investigator began afterwards.

“You don’t need to put him through anymore hell or reminders,” Alan cuts him off. “There’s no additional information that you need at this time to continue the investigation. Really, if I was him, I would be furiously angry in knowing that Alison has easily visited him, manipulated, controlled, molested now without you being able to catch her. I mean, it really makes me sick standing here telling you.” Alan takes a deep breath, knowing that losing his temper would get them nowhere. “I know you need his word, but for now you need to just trust me. Once we know Sarina is okay and this is over, then you can get a statement from him. Right now, I feel it’d be too much for him to take.”

“I understand, but we also need to make sure that he is okay and have him chec-”

“There’s no trace because he said he took a shower last night. Physically, he’s okay. Mentally is another story, but I feel we have it under control with what we’re doing. I think your focus should be getting Sarina away from that witch. It’s only a matter of time before something happens. Alison has Sarina to get to Chase, but what happens when she gets bored of that?”

“We will need the ring for eviden-”

“You’re going to have to once again trust us. You’ve seen it as I showed it to you, as well as the fact that it was in the original photo that Chase received from Alison. But for now, that ring needs to stay with him. It’s the one thing that he can hold on to for hope….”

It took time for everything to continue to fall in place as the investigators did whatever they wanted with the information, while Alan continued to keep Bill and Cindy in the loop as Jordan took care of Chase.

It was three hours later that Chase had emerged from the bathroom, sitting on the edge of the bed, phone in hand, trying to avoid getting shaky. He had to do this one more time, he had to keep on a straight face and be strong. This was going to be the most important meeting, and he couldn’t screw it up no matter what. This was the only plan they could figure working at this moment.

He hears a knock on the door – his breath hitching in his throat as he glances down at the floor. Every part of him wanted to run right now, but he had to do this for her. He slowly makes his way over to the door, opening it.

“You are dressed appropriately this time,” Alison comments with a grin on her face as she enters the room, watching the door close behind her. “I’m impressed…”

“That was my intension,” Chase replies as he sits back on the edge of the bed. “That was why I reached out to you.” Alison crosses her arms watching him closely.

“I was really impressed to hear that you wanted to see me….” Chase fakes a smile, as he resists every urge to break down in that moment.

“Let’s face it – this is about me and you, and nobody else. This has always been about how far you can push me, how crazy you drive me, and clearly based on your feelings for me.” He then reluctantly reaches out for her hand, clasping it. “I’m done letting my friends get hurt. If you let Sarina go, I am willing to do whatever you want – whether go with you, sleep with you – I don’t care. I just want her to be okay, please…”

“Are you absolutely certain without a shadow of a doubt?” Chase knew the key plan – get the phone away from her and then call in the backup. However, that wasn’t possible right now and they didn’t want to capture her without knowing the location of where they were supposed to be going. So it was down to the second ridiculous plan that he wished he never had to believe in.

“Please, I’m begging you at this point…” Alison smirks back in return as she walks towards the door.

“Get dressed, and come downstairs. Walk over to the 2015 Camaro and get in without a single word. We’ll see how this goes…” Chase slowly nods his head as he takes a shaky deep breath, watching her walk out of the room.

He reaches onto the dresser, slipping on the t-shirt, followed by the jeans. Taking a glance in the mirror, trying to compose every bit of himself, he grabs his sweater and slips that on over the t-shirt.

“You’re going to be okay,” Alan comments as he comes out of the bathroom, placing a hand on Chase’s shoulder. “They’re going to follow…” Chase nods his head as he takes the black box off of dresser, placing it in his jean pocket. “It’s going to be okay, I promise…”

“I know…” Chase replies as he makes his way out of the hotel room, down to the lobby and outside. It didn’t take him long to find the Camaro and he followed the directions to a key, climbing in the car and sitting in the passenger seat. It was easy to see how she got around given the tinted windows.

“You’re such a good boy,” Alison says as she reaches over, covering his eyes with a black eye cover. “Don’t fight me or the deal is off…” Chase was glad that she couldn’t see his eyes to see the pain, the tears, the fear, as he tried to keep his breathing composed, knowing the plan and what was involved.

“Just do what I asked, please…” Alison chuckles as she grabs his wrists, tieing them both together tightly. “Easy..” She just laughed harder as she turned the key on the ignition, heading out of the parking lot.

The drive may have only been a half hour, but it felt like forever for Chase. He had no ability to have an clue as to where they were going, along with no ability to move or relax.

Once they arrived, he easily got out of the car, allowing Sarina to lead him to where they were supposed to be going.

“Chase!!” Sarina’s voice rang through the room as she watched him being voluntarily led in by Alison, her eyes locking to the pink diamond on his pinky.

“It’s time for some fun,” Alison comments as a smirk forms on her face.

“Please let Sarina go….” Chase says quietly as Alison laughs in response.

“I thought about that, but this will be more fun. Now, you’re going to listen and goodbye goes your girlfriend.” Chase felt every tinge of fear, worry, and nerves, but knew he just had to play along for a short amount of time. He feels the tie around his wrists loosen, stretching out a little. “What did I say?”

“Sorry….” He wished he could see that Sarina was okay for himself, but clearly that wasn’t going to be an option.

“Strip down…” He felt his breath clutch once again in hearing those familiar words, as he reaches underneath his sweater, slowly taking it off. He just needed to buy himself some time. “Faster or else….”  He then undoes the buckle on his jeans, feeling them drop to the floor immediately, taking a deep breath. He wondered if the black box was defective and where the cops were. He also wondered what Alison had in mind. What else could happen now? He then reaches underneath of shirt, pulling it off.

“Chase…” Sarina lets out, knowing where this was going immediately having heard Alison reminisce of the fun times that she had with him.

“I hope you enjoy the present I left for him, as well as what you’re going to receive,” Alison says as she brings her body against his, pinning him up against the closest wall. “Let’s give her a show…” Chase feels the hot tears returning as Alison’s lips meet his once again, pushing every bit of her against him. She then reaches her hand down his boxers, stroking him slowly… “You’re so hard, baby.”

“Alison Reynolds!” The shout catches everyone off-guard as Alison immediately spins around. She then takes the rolling chair that she had Sarina tied on, pushing it across the floor as the gun goes off from the officer.

“Oh fuck!” Sarina lets out immediately, glancing towards her shoulder, seeing the blood seeping down her arm as one of the paramedics rush over.

“What is going on?” Chase says, still frozen in the same spot. He feels hands wrap around, untying the mask immediately. “What happened?!?”

“Alison escaped out the back room after putting Sarina in the fir-” Alan starts, keeping his arms wrapped around Chase.

“Sarina!!” Alan grips him even harder, not letting him get any closer. “Alan, let me go, please. I need to help her. She nee-”

“Medical services are already taking care of her. She’s going to be okay.” Chase keeps fighting against Alan as Alan maintains his grip. “Chase, calm down. We need to let them look at yo-”

“I’m fine! Let me see her, please!!” His breathing quickens as panic begins to set in against Alan’s hold, as Alan keeps every grip possible, resisting the urge to break into his own panic.

“Chase, take a deep breath, please. Calm down. The worst is over….”

************

“22-year-old male, sedated due to panic attack setting in at the scene,” the paramedic states as they enter the hospital. “No other known injuries or concerns, except sexual assault being discussed by officers.”

“Cubicle 1,” the doctor instructs. “Get his vitals up immediately, along with restraints in place in case he wakes up. Rape kit order should be placed as well.”

“21-year-old female, gunshot wound to the shoulder. It looks to be a flesh wound, but the extent of the damage is not known. May require a blood transfusion as it took awhile to slow the bleeding. She was kidnapped and tied up for a total of four days, dehydration was present.”

“Cubicle 2. Ordering immediate x-rays on the shoulder as that should be taken care first, while beginning fluids.”

Bill stands by the desk, and just looks back in total shock as he watches Alan enter the room, visibly exhausted.

“I tried to get them to avoid giving him the sedative,” Alan states as he walks over to Bill. “I tried with everything I could, but he was totally freaking out no matter how hard I trie-”

“Stop, please,” Bill requests as Alan glances up at him. “I know that you did what you could. I know you wouldn’t make it worse, and damn it Alan, he’s going to be okay. They’re both going to be okay. But what the hell went wrong today, and why did you ever agree to this plan?”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 64: “I can’t do this…..”

Tuesday April 10, 2018 – Charlotte, North Carolina

Chase hears a knock on the door, and just lets out a sigh. He didn’t want to move, just hoping the person would go away. He already felt enough blame on his shoulders – and as much as worry consumed him, guilt was catching up. How could he face anyone?

Taking a deep breath, he makes his way to the door, slowly opening it.

“Hey,” he says quietly backing away immediately as Kyle makes his way inside the house.

Chase swallowed the lump that formed immediately in his throat in the process as he shut the door. How could he face the person who truly believed in Sarina as much as he did from the beginning? It was easy to push off for those who didn’t know her or her story well, but Kyle was a different story.

“Hey,” Kyle replies as he turns back around to face Chase. “I was headed to the shop and thought I’d stop by on the way. Have you heard anything?”

“Not a single update or clue,” Chase answers, biting his tongue in the process. He wanted to spit it out and tell Kyle about the visits, the video, Alison’s seduction, their deal – but he couldn’t. The fear of Alison doing something to Sarina overrode everything in his mind.

“How is that even humanly possible? One woman can’t simply make her way around without being recognized considering everybody is looking for her. You’d think that they’d find her by now.” Chase nodded his head in agreement as he back on the couch.

“If that was the case, Alison never would’ve gotten her hands on Sarin-”

“Marcus feels so terrible, I can’t even begin to describ-”

“I’m not upset with Marcus. I’m upset with the authorities because they can’t damn well do their job. She’s been running around for months now!” Chase takes a deep breath, knowing his own situation was running his tension higher than normal, and he wasn’t about to risk slipping – but maybe that’d be to his benefit.

“I don’t know what to say….” Kyle glances towards the kitchen, noticing a lack of plates, cups, really anything. “Please tell me you’ve been taking care of yourself….” Chase knew that wasn’t going to be a smooth answer.

“I couldn’t sleep last night. I kept waking up every hour, thinking about where she was, how she was, whether she’d be okay, and what Alison could possibly be doing to her.” He also found himself contemplating his options, even trying to come up with a plan, and wondering just how far Alison was going to take things.

“Have you eaten?” Chase glances to the table, where a half-eaten mini pizza sat. “Chase….”

“I’m trying, but I just can’t….” He takes a deep breath, once again feeling the disgust and guilt. Why could he just say the words? “I want to believe, but it is getting harder.”

“She’s going to be okay…” Chase simply nods his head accepting. They both hear the front door crack slowly, instant nerves forming, but watched them relax as Samantha entered with Brexton.

“I’m sorry, but he has to go pee,” Samantha offers as Chase simply points down the small hall.

“She took him over to the park, figuring he could play while we talked,” Kyle comments after the pair were out of earshot. “I’m worried just as much as you are – so is Sam. It’s hard at times because how do we look at Brex as if nothing is wrong?” Chase shakes his head, not even sure where to go with that since he could barely handle himself. “But you have to believe me – she will be fine and you need to take care of yourself.”

“I’ll try….” Kyle nods his head accepting as he watches Brexton come running down the hall.

“Chase!” Brexton lets out as he rushes over, jumping up on his lap. Kyle just glanced over at Samantha, who looked back with uncertainty.

“Hey buddy,” Chase says with a small smile. How could you look at him and not smile?

“Sarina?” Chase takes a deep breath, resisting all urges to let down his defenses in front of Brexton.

“She’s not here right now – she went away with a friend.” He almost puked in saying the words as Kyle watched on.

“Brexton, why don’t we go back to the park?” Samatha offers, having seen Chase’s reaction.

“I like Chase….” Brexton rambles off as Samantha glances back towards Kyle.

“It’s okay Sam,” Chase comments as he looks into Brexton’s eyes. Being with him then, she could see why Sarina never gave up an opportunity to babysit for Sam or Kyle. “Did you have fun at the park?”

“Big slide!” Chase lets his eyes go wide in surprise as Brexton smiles. He watches the little boy reach in his pocket, pulling out some cars. “Daddy car, Uncle Denny car, Uncle Kurt car, Chasey car…” Chase smiles as it surprised him that Brexton even had one. “Sarina truck.”

“Those are awesome. Now, who wins the race?” A big smile forms on Brexton’s face as he pulls out another one.

“McQueen!” Chase chuckles as he had to admire the effort, and knew where they came from given Kyle’s toys for Brexton at home.

“He is pretty cool, huh? Now, does Sarina beat daddy and me?” Brexton nods his head. “Of course…”

“I love Sarina. She my girl…” It was now time for another surprised face, even if Chase felt a bit of heartbreak in hearing it.

“I love her, too. She’s amazing, Brex.” He feels a couple tears forming in his eyes as he glances down at the cars in Brexton’s hand.

“Alright Brexton, it’s time to go….” Samantha starts again, having seen the emotions.

“I come again?” Brexton asks and Samantha nods her head. “Yay! Bye Chase!”

“Bye Brexton,” Chase says as he slowly puts him down, watching him run back off with Samantha.

“Are you okay?” Kyle asks and Chase nods his head. “Remember what I said.”

“I will,” Chase answers. “And Kyle, thanks for bringing him by. He can make any girl smile.” Kyle smiles as he watches Samantha walk out the door with Brexton.

“That’s what scares me for when he goes to school.” Chase laughs as he watches them all leave together. he then goes to get up, feeling something by his side. He reaches down the cushion, picking up the toy truck. Letting out a sigh, it must’ve fallen out of Brexton’s pocket as he was leaving.

“Don’t worry Brex – you’ll get to play with her again.” He then takes a deep breath, walking over to the TV stand and placing the truck on one of the shelves, before texting Kyle that he had it.

The incident was almost set to be the motivation to do something about Alison, and he almost had a thought stuck in mind for what to do when she showed up at her usual time. However, hearing the back door open again, it was like nerves tied all doors shut for him.

“We meet again,” she offers as she walks into the living room.

“If this is about me, then why keep Sarina locked away?” Chase questions as he looks up at Alison, not moving a single inch from the couch. He wasn’t about to startle her knowing what one little button could do.

“Because it keeps you on your toes, and it helps make those decisions so much easier.” Chase knew that because it was the perfect leverage.

“Why not just kidnap me instead?” Alison laughs as she bends over, locking eyes with him.

“Because this is more fun. I told you that I like a game, and I always win.” Chase lets out a sigh, knowing that wasn’t a lie as she had played him perfectly so far. When was that going to end?

“How long is this going to go on for?” He watches Alison just shrug her shoulders.

“Until I get bored. What? Is Chase wanting to end the game early? There’s only one way to do tha-” He could see the hand reaching for the pocket, and knew better.

“No, I’m willing to play.” She smiles widely as she takes out the phone, placing it on the table, bringing up the same video footage as before. “You haven’t touched her….”

“This isn’t about her, remember?” Chase nods his head as his eyes remain focused on the screen, not wanting to lose sight of Sarina. If he was only going to get these seconds, he wanted to savor every single minute. “It’s time to up the stakes.”

“What do you mean?” Every bit of fear and nerve tingled through his whole body as she reached down, running her hands up underneath his shirt, taking it off. He felt those nerves twitch even more as she reached down, pulling the zipper of his jeans down. “What are you doing?”

“Remember our deal. Do you want her to live or die?” Chase swallows the lump in his throat, tries to cut off the tears in his eyes, almost make himself numb as he feels the nerves pick up more.

“Live…” She then pulls his jeans down to his knees, revealing the boxers underneath.

“Every time we meet, you’re going to be like this – exactly how you’re sitting now. Am I clear?” He slowly nods his head as he tries to keep his eyes focused on the phone screen, remembering that he’s doing it for Sarina’s safety, not wanting to think about Alison’s plan. “Good boy….” She then takes off her own shirt, revealing a skinny bra underneath that barely covered her. She follows it by taking off her pants, revealing her thong. “One step at a time….”

“Please….” She had to chuckle at his pleas as she licked her lips, locking her eyes on his brown ones.

“Your wish is in my command.” She then straddles herself on top of him; pushing her body against his, grinding as she may, following the movements she wanted, once again going for the kiss, deepening it against his lips. She kept the process going, as a small moan escaped her lips, before drawing back. “I can see why she likes you so much, and I can’t wait for that special moment….”

“I hate you….” Alison just laughs as she climbs off of him, putting her pants and shirt back on.

“You may say those words, but you were growing hard….” She then grabs the phone off of the table, making her way back out the back door, leaving him sitting there stunned.

He felt sick. He felt terrified. He felt scared. He felt anger. How could he let her do that to him? How could his body react in that fashion? How could he let himself be controlled and manipulated so easily? How could he let Alison continue to have this hold over him? Worst of all, how could let Sarina continue to spend time with this psycho witch?

Feeling hot tears run down his cheeks, and his stomach flip upside down, he rushes down the hall, barely making it to the bathroom in time before what little he had ate was back up stream.

“I can’t do this….” He says to himself as he sits back against the bathroom wall afterwards. “I can’t…..”

Wednesday April 11, 2018 – Nashville, Tennessee

After landing the plane, Chase followed Alan and Jordan across the short parking lot, as the group get in the rental car that Alan had already arranged.

Earlier that morning, they received a phone call from investigators requesting Chase to come to Nashville to discuss Sarina’s situation in person where it happened. To him, it seemed like a waste of time as he was betting Sarina was in Charlotte given Alison’s frequent visits. Furthermore, he didn’t want to screw up those visits.

Knowing he couldn’t make the trip alone, Alan immediately offered to go – having been at Chase’s house at the time of the phone call. Furthermore, it seemed the crew chief had some more time on his hands right now.

“Do me a favor – do not try and attempt stupid shit anymore,” Chase had told Alan when he heard about the suspension. He had heard the reasons, and immediately put the pieces together – they tried a similar situation to Kevin’s and obviously it failed. He didn’t know whether to be shocked of having two penalties on a year, or the fact that they tried something another team was caught with.

Regardless, the happenings there didn’t change the friendship values because no matter what, he and Alan would always have each other’s back given the events that transpired, friendship, and the fact that he did believe in what they had. Alan was only doing his job trying to win, right?

It didn’t take them long to reach the police station, or be escorted to the conference room. As expected, there were no updates.

“We just want to go over some things further,” the investigator states as Alan crosses his arms.

“He’s sick with worry and you’re wanting to push him more?” Alan questions as the investigator glances over Alan’s direction.

“I can understand your frustration with the department, and I sympathize. Hence why we’re trying to do whatever is possible. Please let us do our job…” Alan rolls his eyes before focusing back in Chase’s direction. “Alison’s path of record is interesting. What type of place could you see her focusing a kidnapping on given tha-”

“You have police report upon police report upon police report – along with a psychological evaluation. Couldn’t you just use that?” Chase hears his phone go off, reading the text message immediately. He wished they could trace the location of a text message right now, but also was glad they couldn’t read it as he typed back a response.

“Mr. Gustafson, could you please allow me to do my job?” Chase swallows the lump in his throat as he sets his phone on the table. “Is there a problem, Mr. Elliott?”

“No, the text message is nothing to be concerned of,” Chase comments, knowing he could lie through his teeth if necessary but almost wished he wasn’t doing that right now. “To answer your question, there’s no pattern to location or matter with her. It’s always a mix of stuff. The initial kidnapping was a set of abandoned offices at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but she also did an abandoned warehouse in Atlanta.”

“And she hasn’t been in contact with any other incidents in this state, correct?” The investigator asks and Chase shakes his head no. “Okay…”

“Anything else or can you stop wasting both of our time?” Alan questions. “I mean, you should be out looking for her-”

“We have people on the jo-”

“If we put both of you, that’s two more. Maybe you’d actually accomplish something here!” Chase feels his stomach flip flop as pictures from last night fill his mind again.

“I’m sorry….” He immediately leaves the room, finding the first bathroom as he does, letting everything out right away.

“Chase?” Jordan asks as he follows, stopping in the doorway. “Hey, are you okay?” Chase sits down on the floor, as he takes a deep breath. “Chase….”

“I haven’t been sleeping, I haven’t been eating as I can’t eat – I’m just a mess.” He glances up at Jordan, knowing there was something very important he was leaving out but how could he say those words? “I just want her to be okay….”

“She’s going to be…” Jordan makes his way in, sitting down on the floor with Chase. “She’s going to be okay, Chase. They’re going to find her and she’s going to be okay – just like I told you Saturday night. Do you remember what I said?” Chase nods his head. “Believe me….”

“The other day I was thinking about what you said, and how strong she is, and how she‘s so amazing. You told me to think of the good times and remember that to get through this.” He glances towards his phone, making sure the messages were closed, as he loads an audio file. “I laughed at her when she saved that clip of me singing to her while we were away in Amsterdam, but yet the only thing that seems to be saving me right now is this clip I saved of her…” Jordan looks over a little confused, but also relieved. In having this conversation, he could see Chase calming down immediately.

“What is it?” Chase smiles as he presses the play button.

“When I was in Las Vegas for pageant week, she left me a voice mail so I could hear her voice, think about her, feel connected even separated. She told me how much she loved me, how she wanted to be with me, and then sang me a song – one call away. I wish I could just get that one call now that she’s okay.” Jordan smiles a little as he listens to the clip.

“You guys are more adorable than I have words for….” Chase chuckles as he closes his eyes.

“You know what the odd thing is? Pageant week is when Alison entered our lives for the first time….” His voice trails off as  he glances back down at the phone. “Even the sweetest most romantic moments can’t be our own anymore because she…..she….” Chase feels the emotions building again, wanting to spit out the words but unable to. Instead, the phone goes flying across the bathroom, shattering against the wall.

“Chase, it’s going to be okay…” Jordan wraps an arm around him, holding him as the tears begin sliding down Chase’s cheeks.

*************

It took a good bit to get him calmed down, but Jordan eventually got the tears to stop and they were able to leave without incident. They even managed to stop at the mall for a new phone. Checking into a hotel for the night, Jordan was pleased once he saw Chase get a good bite to eat, followed by a hot shower.

“Get some sleep tonight,” Jordan offers. “We’ll be in the adjoining room next door if you need us.”  Chase just nods his head in return.

It was only a couple hours later, but he had slipped the door open, having received the text message that she was there.

“You kept your end of the deal – I’m impressed,” she states as she walks in the hotel room. “This will work even better….”

“Do I get a reward?” Chase questions as he keeps his eyes locked on her, almost wishing Alan and Jordan would hear them.

“In sweet dear time…” Alison then spins around. “You’re wearing too many clothes. What did I tell you about how you should appear for me?” Chase swallows the lump in his throat, trying to shoo away the butterflies as he follows orders in stripping down to his boxers. “For that, your chance a prize for me being impressed is revoked.”

“Can we just get this over with, please?” She smirks as she turns to face him.

“On the bed, spread eagle….” He simply follows the orders as she places the phone just out of reach from his fingers, allowing the live video feed to play once again, as she strips out of her clothes. “I should almost just do what I really want tonight to make you suffer for that comment. Actually, I could simply just send the messa-”

“No, please. Leave Sarina alone. Take me. Do whatever you want. Just please leave her alone.” Alison smirks even wider as she climbs on the bed, laying on top of him.

“I could easily take these off….” She runs her finger tips along the waistline of his boxers. “But we’ll save that for another night…” Just like the previous night, she begins off the same way, her breathing picking up as she did so, matched by his doing the same with a tinge of fear and pain mixed in. But yet, she was getting her satisfaction in feeling him harden against her even through the fabric.

“The….ring….” He grabs her hand, bringing it to closer view of his eyes, seeing the familiar pink diamond. “You took Sarina’s ring…” Alison smirks as she looks into his eyes.

“She doesn’t need tha-”

“Take it off!” Now he really wished that Jordan and Alan heard them. “Take it off!”

“Shut up and kiss me like you mean it, and maybe you’ll get your wish….” He takes a deep breath, accepting the kiss that she had to offer, as well as the continued body movements. “Good boy….”

“Please….” She then moves her lips down his collarbone, sucking as hard as she can as a moan escapes her lips once again.

“I know you want me….” She then sits up, slowly rolling off of him. “But that’ll have to wait.” She then takes the ring off, throwing it on the bed. “Goodbye….”

He watches her leave the room, hoping someone, anybody would recognize her, as he laid there frozen. He felt the same feeling returning – sickness, pain, heartbreak, anger – and all he could do was wish that he found the strength to do something about it because he knew there was no way he’d last another night with her.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 63: O’Reilly Auto Parts 500

Sunday, April 8 – Texas Motor Speedway

Chase wakes up, grabbing his phone immediately as he checks for any text messages or phone calls. Seeing nothing, he lets out a long sigh as he puts it back on the small night table. He wanted to believe that last night was a nightmare, but the text that did remain on the phone told him otherwise.

Taking a deep breath, he slowly gets out of the bed, making his way into the small kitchen of the motorcoach. He was actually taken by surprise when he smelt breakfast, giving him another bleep of hope that it was a nightmare, but seeing just Jordan at the table said otherwise.

“Hey,” Jordan says quietly, unsure of really what to say in response. “I heard you wake up, so I made you breakfast.” Chase simply sits down quietly.

“Thanks,” he replies as he picks up the fork.

“Was there any updates?” He shakes his head no as he tries to eat a piece of the egg. “Damn. Listen, you’ll get something soon, I’m sure. They’re going to find her. You have to belie-”

“Alison is the master of the hide and seek as she’s played that game with me all season, Jordan. It really gives me so much hope that they’re going to find her.” Jordan understood the response, but wanted to believe otherwise.

“I get it, I really do. But you can’t ever stop believing in Sari-”

“Don’t you dare go questioning that, Jordan…” Jordan lets out a sigh.

“Look, I don’t know what to say to make you feel better. I just know that things are going to work out somehow.” Chase glances up, simply nodding his head in return.

“And I didn’t mean to cut your head off, either – today or last night.” Jordan knew that as it wasn’t like Chase, but he understood with the current circumstances. That’s why he just let the attitude continue to slide off his shoulders.

“From what I’ve heard, Alan says that your parents are going come by and stay with you – or even let you head out to Nashvi-”

“Why would I leave the state when I have a race today?” Jordan’s jaw almost dropped immediately in hearing those words. He was all set to get the car ready for Elliott Sadler to drive. “Oh, that’s right. Everybody is concerned about me so arrangements have been put in place for either Elliott or Justin.”

“Chase, your mind is elsewhere right now as we know you’re worried sick over Sarina. We both know that you were up late last night. We both know that you’re not thinking the clearest because you want to make sure that she is okay. It was just an executive decision made by Alan, Rick, and Jeff because of what happe-”

“I understand, and trust me – I appreciate everybody being so caring. But, I am racing today.” Jordan just shakes his head in return as he texts Alan. “I’ll be fine, and I can handle i-”

“Are you even listening to yourself right now?” Chase nods his head as he sets his fork down.

“Jordan, I know myself better than anybody else, right? I also know what Sarina would say to me right now. Whether it’s this way or if the roles were reversed, we’re both racers at heart. We would want the other to go out there and try our hardest to win that race for the other. She was in the hospital, and all she pushed was for me to go race. I did the same to her. I will be fine today because I am going to do everything in my power to win for her.” Jordan could understand where Chase was coming from, and believed in his best friend. He just wasn’t sure if that was going to be an understanding across the board.

“I texted Alan and told him what you said. He told me to send back to you that you don’t have to feel pressu-”

“I’m not feeling any pressu-”

“I already told him, Chase.” Jordan takes a deep breath as he reads the next message. “Alan says if you’re insisting, then we’ll go with it. But the minute that there’s something off, we’re switching drivers. Morgan has also cancelled morning appearances.” Chase nods his head as he picks his fork back up. “You know, you can tell me what’s on your min-”

“I told you last night, didn’t I? I just want her to be okay.” Jordan nods his head accepting.

“Let me know when you’re ready and we’ll head out…”

Jordan sat back quietly allowing Chase to go through whatever morning ritual or whatever he wanted. It wasn’t long before they were ready to go, though, meeting up with the rest of the team who expressed their support and concern. With that out of the way, Alan made the call in the meeting for everyone to simply focus on their jobs for the rest of the day – while noting he’d watch Chase’s phone for updates during the race.

The pair then went to the driver’s meeting together, receiving the same comments of support and concern from fellow competitors. There were even a couple who wondered why Chase was even there, but understood once they heard the explanation.

Chase then retreated back to the hauler, changing into the fire suit, before giving his phone another glance for a possible update. With a simple nod, the trip was made out to pit road and once again – all eyes laid on his shoulders. There were some fans and other team’s pit crew members who felt the worry they knew he had, while others wanted to lend a hand of support. And just like his competitors, some even had doubts in the back of their mind.

For Chase, it didn’t matter what everybody was thinking around him. taking a deep breath, he was there to do a job and for the next four hours, he could forget about the worry – and hope that once the race was over, maybe they’d have the answer he wanted.

Starting 20^th on the grid, the race started out strong for Chase as he was able to put himself in the top-10 before the end of the first stage. It seemed the plan to do something special for Sarina was going along fine. A ninth in the first stage, followed by a sixth in the second, and it was easy to see why the team was happy.

Of course, their happiness was subsided a little when about 20 laps into the final stage, Chase reported a vibration. Citing the better safe than sorry route, he headed down pit road, giving up fourth-place, for four tires and fuel under green. Chase’s concerns were also valid as Alan confirmed a loose wheel with the pit crew.

“Come on guys – let’s stay on task here,” he reminds them. “Remember we’re trying to make something special happen today for someone….” The crew just gave the crew chief a nod, not needing another word as Alan made his way back on top of the pit box.

Thankfully, there were no wrecks or incidents during the entire pit cycle, allowing everybody else to pit that was on the lead lap and cycle Chase back to the front. Nothing like a double lucky whammy in watching the caution fly shortly after, allowing them to pit under yellow and remain on the lead lap.

“Get a drink here,” Eddie says, as per his usual duties and like any other caution. However, it was extra requested here in wanting to make sure driver took care of himself with everything going on. Alan also had the extra duty in keeping tabs on the radio for any signs that a switch was needed.

“Hydrated here,” Chase reports back. “How about you?” Eddie had to roll his eyes as normally he didn’t get asked back in response. Besides, it wasn’t a good reminder of the his current situation either.

“I have to pee….” The entire team chuckled on pit road in hearing the news, wondering if they had binoculars they could see Eddie doing the potty dance.

“I do too, actually. it’s cold here…” Eddie could’ve smacked him almost in that moment as if it was cold in the car, that meant freezing on the roof top – and that was exactly the case.

Back under green, Chase was able to work his way back up to fourth as the leaders began to make their way down pit road. With debate whether to go the full fuel run hoping for a caution but losing time to those who pitted, or to come down early, Alan elected for the lather of the pair.

Once they were back on- track, Chase had fallen a lap down and back in 14^th. However, if it continued to cycle out, they’d be back in the top-10 about where they felt they were car-wise in eighth position approximately.

Then it happened. A blown tire for Ryan Newman brought out the caution, trapping him a lap down, as four other cars hadn’t pitted yet along with Newman.

“Four tires and fuel,” Alan made the call on the radio as Chase came down pit road with the leaders. Another glance at the leaderboard and Alan wanted to smack himself silly. He hadn’t realized that Ricky Stenhouse Jr. was still up there and lead lap, meaning they were a lap down. On top of not being able to take wavearound now, they would be stuck starting tail end of longest line for pitting too soon. “We’re fucked. That’s my bad. I didn’t even realize. It’s on me…” Alan just shook his head as he glanced back down at his own notes.

“Dude, are you okay?” Kevin Hulstein asks as he takes off the headset so only the pair could hear each other.

“I’m fine – I just made an honest mistake,” Alan tells him as Kevin nods his head.

“Kevin and I can take over if you want,” Tom suggests as Alan looks over confused. “You don’t need to explain it to us. We know Chase may be off his game because of what’s going on, but we also understand if you are as well. We can handle the rest if you wa-”

“I’m fine, and this had nothing to do with Sarina being missing. I literally made an error in not letting it register in my mind that Ricky was leader when I checked the monitor as everybody pitted. I fucked up as I said – and for no other reason that you’re trying to convey.”

“Okay – we’re just looking out for you.” Alan simply nods his head back in return as he focuses back on the on-track action.

Following the restart, Chase was able to work his way up from the 14^th spot to 11^th in the lucky dog position with 20 laps to go. Unfortunately, no more cautions resulted in being trapped there, handing them an 11^th-place finish.

Alan immediately apologized following the race to Chase, stating that he had screwed up on both occasions with strategy and the final pit sequence.

“We all make mistake,” Chase tells him. “We’re getting stronger as a team, and we’re finding the speed we’ve been lacking. It’ll come together, don’t worry.” He then accepts his phone from the crew chief, checking once again for a message. “No updates?”

“Not a single thing,” Alan replies as Chase shakes his head. “I know your worry is growing because it’s a whole day, but I will keep saying it just as Jordan has – she will be okay.” Chase nods his head, accepting.

“I know. I just wish I knew something, anything. But I guess right now, no news is good news.” Alan simply accepted that as he wrapped an arm around Chase’s shoulders as they head to the garage area together.

Chase walks in the front door of the house, closing it and leaning back against it immediately.

After being surrounded by the entire team all weekend, he had asked them to give him space that night and just leave him be. His emotions were going 200 miles per hour, and he just wanted some kind to catch his breath – alone. Really, in his mind, he would prefer that Alison try something with him alone because it’d lead him to Sarina and right now, he’d do anything.

His eyes caught the phone once again, waiting, begging for any sort of message to come through. But he wasn’t that lucky or spoiled, as it remained just like before – silent.

Taking a deep breath, it almost made him sick to his stomach standing there in their house with her missing somewhere stuck with someone like Alison. How was that even humanly fair?

“I wondering when you’d get home,” he hears a female voice, taking him out of his thoughts. His hope meter pegged, wanting it to be Sarina so badly as he followed the source of the voice to the front room. However, instead, he saw the horror of sights.

“How did you get in?” He immediately questions, only to hear a laugh back in response.

“I can find my way anywhere I want – remember?” He takes a deep breath, not wanting to let her words mess with his thoughts. There was only one goal now.

“Where’s Sarina?” That was meant with another laugh.

“I’m not telling you.” He wasn’t surprised by the answer.

“Look, this is between you and I; it has always been between us from day one. Let her go, and let’s settle this between us. I don’t care what happens to me – I just want her to be okay, please.” Alison licks her lips as she keeps her eyes locked on the young man.

“I can’t just obey your orders, but you’re going to obey mine.” Chase makes his way further into the room, feeling as though there’s nothing to lose. If she gets caught right now in his house, then at least she’s away from Sarina and it’s a matter of just finding her.

“Really? Because all I want to know is one thing – where’s Sarina?” Alison shakes her head no. “You’re going to tell m-”

“Actually, I’m not, because I have something in mind for you.” She then stands up, standing face-to-face with him as she pulls a phone out of her pocket. “There’s a video feed I can show you on here that show your little pretty little girl, as well as a friend of mine. All I have to do is press send on my phone, and he will do what I request – finish her. However, we can make a deal.” As Chase had said, he would do anything for Sarina – and he meant those words. There was no way that he was going to watch Sarina get hurt further because of Alison.

“I’m listening….” Alison smiles as it was the reaction she expected.

“You’re going to do as I request right here and now and I won’t hurt her. You’re going to let me leave without holding me back, and I won’t hur-”

“How can I trust you?” It was a question worth asking based on history.

“Because I’ll be back tomorrow. I want something from you each day in return for her safe keeping. Consider it payment for my hospitality.” Chase felt disgusted immediately, but knew there was no other choice.

“What do you want?” A smirk forms on her face as she pushes him back on to the couch.

“I think you know what I want…” He felt disgusted immediately, and wanted to scream with all his might, but bit his tongue instead in knowing the stakes.

“Fine….” She places the phone beside him, pressing a button as the video feed comes into view. “Sarina….”

“She can’t hear you, babes….” She immediately straddles herself on him, pushing her lips against his, deepening the kiss as much as she could while reaching underneath his shirt. She rubs his chest a little, before pulling her hand out, and backing away. “I need to go before I am caught. Remember the deal. I’ll see your sweet ass later.”

“Just promise me you won’t hur-”

“You have your answer already.” Alison then picks up the phone, heading back out through the back door where she had broken in.

Closing his eyes, running his hands through his hair, feeling the hot tears roll down his cheeks, all he could do was wish it was over as soon as possible. For the rest of the night, it was like he couldn’t get the disgusted taste of Alison off his lips, continuing to feel it despite washing his lips off as many times as he could.

**********************

Monday, April 9 – Charlotte, North Carolina

“Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” Alan asks as he stands by the doorway of the house.

The pair had spent the entire day together as Alan had picked him up in the morning, not wanting to see him driving right now with the worry meter pegged. They had gone over to Hendrick Motorsports for a series of meetings, before spending some time talking about his worry in the office. They even accepted visit from the officers who, like always, had no further leads or updates for them. However, the questions they had were answered for whatever it was worth.

They made a quick stop over at Kyle Busch Motorsports, wanting to double check how everybody was doing there. Kyle wasn’t lying when he said Marcus was upset beyond anything, but Chase assured him that the crew chief did what he could, and Sarina would be okay.

Now back at the house, it was dinner and another round of discussion, followed by Chase assuring Alan it was okay to head home for the night as he would be okay.

“I promise,” Chase assures him as he looks over from the couch. “I’ll call you or text you later if it makes you feel better.” Alan nods his head, accepting.

“Stay strong, kid,” Alan says, before heading out the door, still not sure about the whole leaving him alone aspect.

Chase spent the next two hours sitting on the couch, contemplating his nerves. He so badly wanted to say something to someone, anyone about Alison’s visits but couldn’t bring himself to say the words. What it if meant further harm for Sarina? He couldn’t risk that. So instead, he kept it to himself, and waited for her to come.

Just like before, she came through the back door and just like before, she loaded the video so Chase could see that Sarina, indeed, hadn’t been harmed any further.

“A deal is a deal,” Alison says as she once again assumes the same position, pressing her lips once again against his, as he debated grabbing her and returning the favor. However, seeing Sarina on the screen, he held back every bit of resistance, as Sarina pushed her body further against his. Satisfied after a good 20 minutes, she gets up and leaves without a trace.

“You can’t keep doing this,” he tells himself as he remains stunned on the couch, tears once again rolling down his face, part of him ready to reach for the phone and almost doing so. However, a deep breath and another attempt to wipe the taste away, and he stayed frozen.

Nobody could know – not yet anyway. He had to put a plan in mind first.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 62: North/South SLM Challenge

Saturday April 7, 2018 – Texas Motor Speedway

Even with knowing the crew guys were close, and a solid conversation with Sarina, Chase could admit that his nerves were admittedly fried right now. He wanted to forget the note that he had read the night before, but it was the only thing that kept filling every thought in his mind.

“So I was thinking we’d start off where we finished last session, and go from there,” Alan states, though his comments go right over Chase’s shoulders without a single reaction. “Earth to Clyde!” Chase glances over immediately, actually surprised.

“You never call me that…” Chase comments and Alan nods his head.

“You were totally spaced out; I had to do something.” Chase runs his fingers through his hair with a sigh. “Do you want to talk about it?” Chase shakes his head no. “Hey, it’s okay to admit that you’re worried, or whatev-”

“Can we just focus on practice, please?” Alan could only cross his arms.

“I was trying to do that, but my comment just flew right over that head of yours. It seemed you were the one that was spaced out, not me. But, I don’t blame you.” Alan reaches out, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Like I told you yesterday, we’ve got your back – the entire team. We’re going to do whatever it takes for you this weekend. She’s not going to get near you. I also shared our concerns surrounding someone being involv-”

“Really?” Alan nods his head slowly. “You did that without even asking me?”

“Your safety is all that matters at the end of the day, and that’s part of taking care of you. I had to do what I had to do, Chase. But I will let you know that the sentiments have been felt by NASCAR’s head brass, and Brent said that he would do his part to look into the officials and such to make sure nothing is off. He also added that he will make sure to coordinate in every way possible with the officers.” That response didn’t surprise Chase one bit, almost sounding too textbook in how NASCAR’s President Brent Dewar had worded his comment. However, what else were they supposed to do?

“I want to be mad at you for saying somethi-”

“I was looking out for yo-”

“But you did it behind my back, Alan, and part of me wanted to strangle you. However, you’re right – given the situation, I can’t be upset.” Alan smiles a little.

“I’m doing what I can, and you know at anytime you can cut me off and we can talk about it rather than the racecar.” Chase nods his head, having heard that too many times. But what could he say that hadn’t been said yet?

“Now, what were you saying about practice today?” Alan glances back towards the notes, bringing up the plan for the first session.

“I’m going to start with something close to what we ended off yesterday with, and we’ll go from there. Being that it’s like 35 today and will be 50 on Sunday, I want to just work on getting it comfortable and being able to make adjustments.” Chase nods his head, accepting.

“You’re the man that gets paid the big bucks, right? I’m just supposed to get in and turn left.” Alan rolls his eyes as he watches Chase head to the car in the garage and get ready.

“Oh – did you mean it when you said that Sarina was 24^th in practice?” Chase glances over, nodding his head. “Holy shit. I thought she said working with Marcus was supposed to bring good results.”

“That’s what she told me. But they didn’t get the full session in – cut real short actually – so they didn’t have time to work their proper magic. Don’t worry, she’ll be fine today.”

“I hope…”

The pair of practices both went smoothly, but perhaps not the way that Chase would’ve absolutely hoped for. He was 20^th in the first session, followed by placing 18^th in the second. The only hope that he had going into Sunday was that they were getting better in speed and handling, so at least Alan was heading in the right direction. If they continued down that path, then maybe they could turn Sunday into something decent.

Rather than taking in the XFINITY Series race as originally planned, Chase hung out in the lounge of the trailer watching the late model qualifying coverage to see how Sarina made out. Seeing that she had ended up 13^th, it was certainly better than how practice had gone for her as well.

Chase hears a knock on the lounge door, actually surprised as nobody the crew guys would just burst their way in. He watches as it opens slowly, seeing John standing there.

“Jordan and Alan are hoping you can make your way out here for a second,” John Gianninto says, causing Chase to be a little confused. “They said it was important.” Chase knew if the boys were saying that, it meant business. He could only wonder what they had to offer.

Chase follows the crew member back through the trailer to the front where the pair stood, along with an officer. Chase could only look concerned as he glanced between them.

“Do I want to know?” He questions and Jordan gives a questioning glance to Alan.

“Actually, you may want to know,” Alan answers, as Chase simply crosses his arms. “Remember how we spoke about someone important being responsible for Alison’s weekly entrances?” Chase nods his head.

“A fan came forward with a photo that we believe you should see,” the officer states, handing the photo to Chase. He simply takes the images, glancing it over before shaking his head. “I don’t think any words are necessary.”

“You were right after all,” was all Chase could manage as he handed it back to the officer. The image certainly showcased what they knew as you recognized Alison standing beside one of the NASCAR officials.

“The fan stated that they were going through images shot from the day, and noticed something that looked interesting, taking a closer glance. He said that if he would’ve known it was her right away, he would’ve said something but he didn’t realize.” Chase could only chuckle in response.

“Hidden in plain sight like she was does, right?”

“One of my fellow officers has already gone to NASCAR with the image to see if we can match it with an official’s description. Given that we can only see part of them, there’s no clues to identity so we will have to see if it can be matched. We will also be questioning all the officials, as well.” Chase just rolled his eyes.

“Talk to us…” Alan says, noticing the glances right away.

“Our suspicion is confirmed, but what can we do from here?” He questions. “There’s nothing we can do if we don’t know who and what they’re doing. So she’s just going to keep getting away with it. Needless to say, I’m not reassured yet.” Alan glances back over towards the officer.

“Clearly you can see that so far, you guys have done nothing to comfort him or assure him and make him feel safe. Clearly, it seems like you’ve failed to do your job because she’s been running around since January terrorizing everybody. Every race for the past couple of weeks – Martinsville and California – he has seen her in the flesh. He also saw her at an appearance that he made one weekend, too. When are you going to step up and do your job?”

“We are doing the best that we can given the circumst-” the officer starts as Alan shakes his head.

“I don’t want to hear any more excuses. We’re done. I was done the minute that bitch took a pop shot at me because I was trying to be a friend to him. I mean, if I was you, I would have security on him at all times knowing what it is possible. I would make sure that someone is always watching knowing what she’s planning to do. But hey, what do I know? I’m just a crew chief.” Alan walks away heading for the lounge as Chase glances back in that direction.

“If you want security, I can arrange for that to happen.” Chase then looks back towards the officer.

“So it takes someone suggesting it to you for you to do that? I think you know my answer…” He then turns to follow in Alan’s direction as Jordan is left standing there stunned. Chase slowly enters the lounge, finding the crew chief relaxing back on the couch. “Hey…”

“Hey,” Alan says as he takes a sip from a bottle of water, watching Chase enter and close the door.

“I want to apologize,” Chase starts as he leans back against the door. “I’m so sorry for bringing you into the midd-”

“It wasn’t your fault. You didn’t ask for this, right?” Chase nods his head as he glances towards the ground.

“I still feel like shit. You shouldn’t have to deal with this and while you want to sit here and tell me that it’ll be fine and whatever, I can tell that it’s getting under your skin.” Alan couldn’t deny that as he pulled out his laptop.

“I just want to know that you, and every single one of my guys is safe and doesn’t have to worry about someone being right over their shoulder constantly. I thought we could trust everybody in this garage and it turns out, we can’t. My frustration isn’t with you. It is with someone being able to do within NASCAR’s staff. It is with the officers for taking their damn sweet time to find her.” Alan lets out a sigh. “I’m sorry I blew up there…”

“Don’t be.” Chase comes over and takes a seat beside the crew chief. “We all have our moments. As long as we stick together, we’ll get through this and come out stronger in the end – in victory lane for that matter.” Alan smiles, nodding his head in agreement. “So, what’s the hot ticket set-up for tomorrow?”

“I was just about to start working on that because I’m not sure yet…” Chase glances over concerned as Alan looks up. “Don’t’ worry – I won’t let you down. I’ll give you something to work with.”

“I wouldn’t expect otherwise. Care to watch a Late Model race while you work?” Alan focuses back on his laptop.

“Be my guest. I want to see if she can kick some ass.”

After grabbing them both a snack, the pair settled in – Chase focused on the TV in the lounge while Alan worked away at his notes.

Here and there in the midst of watching the event, Alan would throw a quick question Chase’s way about how the car drove through the practice sessions. But for the most part, he allowed his driver to focus on the late model race. There were even times that Alan stopped working and glanced up himself, intrigued by the action.

“That track looks like a lot of fun,” Alan commented midway through speaking of the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway.

“It is,” Chase replied as he glanced over at the track. “I would put it up there with the top short tracks that I’ve ran.”

“Didn’t you get a guitar from there?” Chase nods his head, remembering that late model win.

Despite starting 13^th, Sarina was able to make a decent run of it for the 100 laps. Focused on conserving tires most of the race and avoiding trouble, she cracked the top-10 with 35 laps to go, before working her way up to fourth by the end.

Chase called her up, giving her a shout of congratulations based on what happened – as well as an update about what they had learned in relation to Alison. He told her that he’d be going out to dinner with the guys, but looked forward to seeing her later that night. She made mention that she was staying for the ARCA race to see how Harrison did, but would make her way to Texas right after.

“I’m surprised she’s coming,” Alan states after the call was over.

“I was too, but she told me that she doesn’t want to miss it,” Chase comments. “I know, before you say it – I’m spoiled.” Alan just chuckles as he looks over at him.

“Just let me know when the wedding is because I know it’s coming…” Chase rolls his eyes as they head out for dinner with the rest of the guys.

The fun night of laughs was almost like therapy as for those couple hours around the table, everything else was totally forgotten. Everybody found themselves entertained by the series of stories told by fellow teammates, as well as jokes that were shared. Who knew some of their stupidest past mistakes would become the biggest laughs today?

Chase even got the biggest laugh when a couple of the guys tried to go and join the band that was playing in a song. The guys also pushed for him to do the same, but he wasn’t willing.

With dinner in the books, he and Alan made the trip back to the track – with Jordan agreeing to spend the night on the motorcoach couch as part of the team’s plan to keep an eye on their driver.

Reaching the motorcoach and pulling out his key, Chase hears his phone go off on his pocket. He opens the door, allowing the pair to enter first, before pulling his phone out of his pocket. He smiles, seeing that it was a new message from Sarina, opening it immediately.

“What the fuck?!?” He says, instantly causing Alan and Jordan to turn around on a dime.

“Chase?” They both say together, slowly coming back down the stairs to where he was standing outside.

“Alison….” He couldn’t find his voice as he tried to say what was on his mind. “Alison…” Alan snatches the phone from his hands, reading the text message instantly.

“You pulled the wrong move and now I have no choice but to make a different decision,” Alan read out loud. He then looked at the attached image, which showed a photo of Sarina tied up. “Holy shit! Jordan, get him inside! I’ve got this.”

Jordan simply nods his head, wrapping his arms around Chase’s shoulders and guiding him inside as Alan takes out his own phone, dialing the investigator’s number immediately.

It wasn’t a long conversation on the phone as the investigator promised to be there immediately, while making sure to contact those that were in Nashville close to the situation.

“Alan!” Alan hears, watching as Kyle comes hurrying his way. “Have you hear-”

“Alison has Sarina tied up somewhere,” Alan cuts him off, showing him the image on Chase’s phone. Kyle resisted the urge to let out a big long curse. “You know?”

“Marcus just called me. He and Harrison were leaving the track, along with some of the other guys, and a laughing gas bomb went off. It knocked them ou-”

“….and Sarina was kidnapped by Alison in the process…” Kyle nods his head. “Are they okay?”

“Yeah, Marcus says that he and the guys are fine. He also has already told local authorities and they’re looking into security cameras, whatever they can.” Alan simply nods his head. “How’s Chase?”

“Totally stunned. He couldn’t even get the words out. Jordan took him inside…” Kyle just shakes his head.

“I can’t believe she’s taken it this far….”Alan wanted to believe the same thing, but he couldn’t.

“Based on what she said in the court room that day, and the fact that she took a shot at me, I’m not.” Alan crosses his arms as he tries to remain calm about this. “She wants to get to Chase in every way possible. By simply killing Sarina, that’s not going to do it – we both know that. I have a feeling that there’s going to be a second part to this.”

“She’s going to try and lure Chase in to doing what she wants?” Alan slowly nods his head. He didn’t want to say or think about the next set of words, but the scene in the trailer that day said it all.

“And he’ll do anything for Sarina so you know what the results will be.” Kyle nods his head, knowing where this was going on.

“Marcus feels absolutely terrible that for a second time, he hasn’t done enough to stop her.” Alan could understand that, given the friendship Marcus and Sarina had.

“I still can’t believe you broke those two up…..”

Inside the motorcoach, Jordan had sat Chase down on the couch, simply sitting calmly beside him. Jordan only got up and went to the fridge, pouring a glass of water, and bringing it over to hand it to him.

“Do you want anything else?” Jordan asks.

“I just want Sarina to be okay, and here with me,” Chase answers as he glances over at the mechanic. “Is that too much to ask?” Jordan shakes his head no as he wraps his arm back around Chase’s shoulder.

“She’s going to be okay. She’s strong. She’s fought through so much so far, and she’ll damn well make sure Alison doesn’t hurt her. We both know how strong she is, Chase. Keep telling yourself that…” Chase nods his head as he glances down his hands, the keys still resting in them. His eyes immediately caught to a key in particular as he holds it firmly.

“For our anniversary, I gave her a heart locket and I’m the only one that has the key for it – the key to her heart. Cheeky, huh?” Jordan hated to, but he chuckled a little even in the moment.

“Corny, but absolutely adorable at the same time.” Chase couldn’t help but chuckle a little, before letting out a sigh as he glanced back down at it.

“I always kept it on my key ring with the plane keys, truck keys, motorcoach key, house key – whatever. I thought I lost it when I crashed the plane in February. When it came to recovering the wreckage, they weren’t able to save much – but one of those things was that key. I was probably more thankful about that little key than I should’ve been. But right now, it’s all I can think about….” Chase glances up at Jordan. “She’s got to be okay, Jordan….”

“She will be. They’re going to find her, and she will be okay without a doubt in my mind.”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 61: “So about this weekend….”

Thursday April 5, 2018 – Charlotte, North Carolina

Chase walks in the house, freezing immediately by the door as he sees the familiar pair of cowboy boots sitting there. He was certain that Sarina put them in her bag the night before so why were they sitting out now?

He then makes his way up the stairs, hearing some noises coming from the bedsroom. He enters slowly, stopping in the doorway as he sees the open suitcase on the bed. He notices the items immediately – normex underwear, sponsor t-shirt, jeans, long socks. He then watches Sarina emerge from the closet with her firesuit, folding it carefully.

He smiles carefully as he knew exactly where she was headed, and couldn’t find an argument against her going. In her shoes, he would’ve done the exact same thing; he actually did the same thing while running his limited truck schedule and the XFINITY Series.

“So about this weekend….” Sarina starts as she glances up, noticing him standing there with his arms crossed. Even just a simple t-shirt and jeans, she found herself resisting the urge to prance right over and jump him.

“You’re going to Nashville?” He questions and she slowly nods her head. “Kyle let you play with the late model this weekend?” She nods her head once again.

“He only gave me a heads-up about doing it today as he wasn’t sure if the team would be ready to go. I’m sorry. I should’ve told you sooner, other than that false hope from last nigh-”

“Why are you apologizing?” She was now confused. “You’re a racecar driver, just like me. I know the first thought that goes through that pretty head of yours – going as fast as you can as many times as you can. I’ve been in your shoes, Sarina. There’s nothing like a good late model short track event, and the Fairgrounds is great for putting on a show. I have no issue with it – as long as you bring me back a guitar.”

“Don’t you have one of your own that you haven’t even learned to play yet?” He nods his head, remembering the exact year that he won there. “So what you’re saying is we need a matching set?”

“Exactly, and I believe in your talent.” He then walks in the room, lightly kissing her lips. “I’m going to miss you being in my arms this weekend and supporting me, but my heart will be with you all weekend, believing in you, waiting to hear back some good news.”

“I expect the same from you, too. I’m also going to be there for Sunday anyway. I already talked to Kyle.” Chase couldn’t help but smile as while he was willing to let her explore and have fun, there’s no replacing having her there with him at the track.  “Oh, and Marcus is crew chiefing this weekend.”

“A small reunion of sorts?” Sarina smiles as she leans back against the bed, keeping her arms wrapped around Chase’s waist.

“Rudy is focused on the truck program, so Kyle figured it’d be fine to let me and Marcus have a fun weekend together for a change. He knows the friendship we have, so might as well have some fun. It doesn’t change what I told you the other night, though. I’m willing to make it work with Rudy because I believe in him and we’re getting there, together.” Chase nods his head, having seen the progress firsthand at Martinsville.

“Like I said, I expect to hear that you got a guitar…”

“A guitar to play while I check out that cowboy hat on your head?” He laughs, nodding his head. “I still say you’re absolutely adorable with it.” He could only roll his eyes back in response.

“You’re cuter with one if that makes this discussion any better.” She then just chuckles back in return.

“Two days apart, can we honestly survive?” He nods his head.

“You promise to call and text, right?” She nods her head back in response.

“Constant updates, just like I expect from you too. Alan and Jordan have my num-”

“Just like Marcus has my number. I love you.” He then kisses her lips.

“I love you, too.” She then glances down at their fingers intertwined together. “If Alison com-”

“You told me that we were done with her and she wasn’t going to hurt me again. I’m standing by those words as she’s getting caug-”

“Chase, listen to me, please…” He could feel her voice quiver a little, immediately silencing his thoughts. “If she does, though, please don’t hide it from me. Please tell me what happened and the details, or at least get Jordan or Alan, too. I’m strong enough to hear about it and I want to be there for you – just like you’re always here for me.”

“I promise I’ll be honest with you – but you have nothing to worry about.” She nods her head, slowly, trying to tell herself that over and over, but feeling a tinge of nerves in being separated. “I have my guys, and you have your guys. Everybody has an eye out for her. She’s going to be caught sooner than later and be locked far away with Chris.”

“I know…” He then puts his hand underneath her chin, tipping her head up so his eyes could see into hers.

“You can tell me what’s on that pretty little mind of yours. I know this hasn’t been easy for you…” She takes a careful deep breath, as she tries to look away. “Sarina…..”

“I’ve just got so many mixed thoughts about Chris, still. It hurts me as much as I mean it when I say that I miss my brother and I love him. How can I say that after what he did, Chase?” He rubs his hand slowly over hers as he motions them to the bed so they can both sit down.

“In your eyes, he’s the same brother that you grew up with, played with, went to the playground with, shared fun times together, and all those memories that you talk about. Whenever you look at him, into those eyes, you see those memories. It’s okay to miss those times and that brother you knew – it’s understandable. I don’t fault you for that, and it’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with feeling that way.” She then takes a deep breath, trying to compose her thoughts.

“But he hurt us beyond anything we could imagine.” She then slowly looks back into his brown eyes. “I could’ve lost you that nigh-”

“But you didn’t, did you? All we can do is be thankful that we’re still here and we’re both strong as ever. We can carry those memories that you have, but also recognize that we’ve done the right thing for our future based on his actions. We also know that we tried to do right by him and give him a chance, and he failed to accept that.” She slowly nods her head.

“Do you think Shelley will ever come around?” Chase shrugs his shoulders. “I mean, I don’t care if she does or doesn’t. I was so done with family that it doesn’t bother me because I don’t want that toxicity in my life anymore. I’m thankful to have Lindsay back, but I’m glad the rest of the drama is gone.”

“I don’t blame you one bit based on what you’ve told me. Besides, I think you have it pretty good with your current family.” She nods her head in agreement.

“I don’t know what I’d do without Sam some days. As much as everybody says Kyle is the boss, she’s just as much as he is – and even better at times for me. I mean, I don’t know where we’d be without her after what happened…” Chase knew she was referring to New Year’s and the miscarriage, remembering how tore apart they both were in that moment. “She hasn’t given up, by the way. She’s gotten everything looked at more by the way. She actually called me to her office to let me know that she has some more ideas surrounding it. They can’t give us a definite answer, but if we did want to get pregnant, there’s certain things that we can do so we don’t have the same thing happen.”

“That’s good. I’m glad that she’s been able to do that as it makes me feel better in knowing that you have your answers, and we’re going to be able to do it safer – if we want to one day.” Sarina smiles a little as she looks down towards the ring.

“Who knew that one day I’d be engaged, and thinking of having a baby…” She then looks back up into his eyes. “I’ve told you this countless times, but I will tell you again – thank you for everything, and changing my life beyond what I could imagine. I know you keep telling me that my talent and ability and strength got me here, but I really couldn’t have done it without you.”

“I couldn’t do this without you, either. I would’ve gone insane over Alison without you.” She then squeezes his hand a little tighter as their eyes lock together.

“You can talk to me if you need to. I know she’s a insane psycho witch that’s driven you to your wits ends.”

“I’m fine, really, but I appreciate the offer. As long as I have you, I can do this.” He then leans in and kisses her lips once again.

Friday April 6, 2018 – Texas Motor Speedway

Chase walks over, scanning over the faces, before a glance towards Alan.

“Is Ron not here?” Chase questions, expecting to see Ron Malec filling in for Josh Kirk as they did two weeks ago at Martinsville. It made sense to have Ron fill in based on his car chief experience over the past several years with Jimmie.

“Ron couldn’t do this week,” Alan explains, without much of explanation as he wasn’t told much from Kenny Francis anyway. “Kevin Hulstein is going to fill in. He has experience with the guys, and he knows what the role entails. We’ll be fine.” Chase nods his head as he glances over the group once again.

“I’m not worried. I trust you guys and will always trust you guys no matter what.” Alan nods his head in agreement.

“So where’s Sarina?” One of the engineers, Matt Barndt, asks, catching everybody off-guard.

“Isn’t that Jared’s job?” Chad Avrit wonders as Alan could only roll his eyes.

“I thought I got rid of this when we got rid of Jared,” Alan comments, although half-joking as it wasn’t his choice to remove Jared from the team. However, NASCAR’s new pit road requirements had done that for him.

“She’s racing a late model this weekend for Kyle at the Fairgrounds,” Chase answers, earning a simple nod back in response.

“We can all go back to work with ease as grumpy driver alert is turned off,” Matt adds, which simply caused Chase to give him a glance. “What? If you’re fighting with the girl, you’re a little off edge. I didn’t want to push the buttons if that was the case.”

“They’re over their differences and have grown up – unlike most of this team,” Alan comments, earning a chuckle from Chase as they walk off together. “I’d be worried about adding all of these guys to your wedding guest list.”

“Woah, woah, easy there….” Chase says as they enter the trailer together. “We haven’t even began planning a wedding. One step at a time, please.” Alan turns back around with a smirk.

“I know how much she loves you, Chase. It’s only a matter of time…” Chase could only roll his eyes as Alan now sounded like Jimmie and Dale.

“Can we focus on why we came in here to begin with?” Alan nods, pulling out his notes.

“So I was thinking we’ll do a qualifying run, and then back it up with two race runs….” Chase glances over the notes.

The pair emerged themselves in conversation about the various notes across the page as Alan explained some of his different set-up ideas based on what they had learned so far that year, as well as previous years at Texas. He also broke down some of the crew chief discussion they had during the break and changes that were made on the cars as a result.

Completely focused on their conversation, they were both caught off-guard when they heard a series of loud knocks on the door. A glance at each other in confusion – perhaps a brief flashback to a couple weeks ago – Chase got up off the couch and opened the door.

“So where’s your girlfriend?” Lindsay asks without a single greeting or anything else first.

“She’s in Nashville racing a late mod-” Chase begins to explain.

“Why doesn’t anybody tell me these bloody things?” Chase shrugs his shoulders.

“I only found out last night after she found out yesterday morning. If you have a problem, you have her number. Sorry.” Lindsay just lets out a sigh as she glances over at Alan, before turning back to Chase.

“I didn’t mean to interrupt an important meeting. It’s just a feel a little lost here without her. I don’t know anything here!” Chase couldn’t help but chuckle. “What?”

“You grew up a racing fan, and you’ve been to some races already this year. Just go with the flow and have some fun. Hang out with Ryan, hang out with his guys – you’ll be surprised.” He then places a hand on her shoulder. “If you’re totally screwed over there, it’s also okay to betray your boyfriend and hang with us.”

“Careful Chase, she may pass over some secrets,” Alan interrupts, earning a stern glance in return from Lindsay. “Hey! I was kidding! Lighten up a little….”

“How do you guys all work together, and then yet you go hang out with the Kyle Busch Motorsports boys?” Lindsay wonders as Chase shrugs his shoulders. It’d almost come second nature now.

“We just respect boundaries and have an understanding,” he offers as Alan nods his head back in agreement.

“Sarina isn’t able to take a single glance at this notebook – same way I know Chase hasn’t seen any of Kyle’s notes,” Alan adds.

“Alright, I’ll try to make this work…” Lindsay offers, before turning on her heels and leaving.

“That’s it? We don’t even get a good luck wish or a goodbye?” Chase shakes his head no as he closes the door once again. “Dude, what did you do to her this past weekend?”

“I did nothing, okay?” Chase pleads. “We all hung out and had a really good time.” He then sits back on the couch with a glance over at Alan. “Trust me – I didn’t do a single thing. I guess she’s just pissed that Sarina isn’t here and I’m getting the brunt of it. Oh well….”

“Anyways, let me try and get back to what I was saying…..”

Chase lets out a sigh as he glances up pit road. Was this really happening?

They had been decent in practice – not the fastest or the smoothest handling, but they were pretty fast as he was able to at least be seventh quickest. But now with lightening canceling qualifying after the first round, they were going to start 20^th.

How does that happen?

“At least you can pass here,” he comments to himself as he pulls his phone out, looking for updates from Nashville.

“Don’t tell me you’re in a bummer mood…” He hears and glances up as Alan walks over. “I know starting 20^th sucks especially when Jimmie is all the way up there in the top-10.”

“It’s like we’re taking one step forward, two steps backwards…” Alan nods his head in agreement as he was back to glancing over notes.

“I honestly thought the track was going to be a little slippery in the other end, but I ended up over-adjusting. Really, I think it threw a lot of teams for a loo-”

“Stewart-Haas swept the top-three spots. How is that possible?” Alan shrugs his shoulders.

“They’ve got something figured out, and I promise you we will do the same soon.” Chase nods his head, knowing that Alan was right. Despite his bummed out attitude at that moment, they were making strides.

“I know, and trust me – I believe in you and every one on this team as much as I ever have. I just am bummed out about qualifying a little.” Alan places a hand on his shoulder.

“That’s fine, because I’m bummed out too. We should be better than this, and I won’t stop until we are.” Alan then walks up pit road to meet up with the rest of the guys as they were pushing the car back to the garage.

Chase reads over Sarina’s message, seeing practice got cut short in Nashville due to rain but the limited amount of laps she was able to make felt pretty good. Letting out a sigh, he texted back a vote of confidence for her, while detailing his weekend so far.

He then stands up and goes to leave pit road when he spots an envelope. A shiver immediately escapes his spine as he texts Alan immediately, while slowly picking it up. He opens the envelope, sliding out the note as he shakes his head.

“Wha-” Alan starts, seeing the envelope and piece of paper immediately.

“Nobody had access to this spot on pit road except our own team and the official,” Chase cuts him off immediately. “If it’s none of our guys and trust me, I believe it isn’t because we wouldn’t do that, then it has to be an official working with her. The content simply says that I know you’re alone this weekend and I can’t wait.” Alan grabs it off of him, reading it over, before stuffing it in his pocket.

“I’m not letting you out of my damn sight for the rest of the weekend. You are not allowed to step foot anywhere alone and somebody is staying in the motorcoach lot with you.” Chase looks back at the crew chief with total surprise.

“So I need a babysit-”

“No, you need a damn guard and someone to protect you to make sure nothing happens to you, Chase. Right now, that’s me because I am going to do whatever it takes – whether you’re willing to accept my help or not.” Alan could tell despite defiance being written in Chase’s response, he was appreciative the offer.

“Thank you…” Alan wraps an arm around his shoulders as they keep walking down pit road together.

“It’s going to be okay. They’re going to catch her, and that damn official…”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 60: Some Time Away

Thursday March 29, 2018 – Key West, Florida

“Are you girls ready yet?” Ryan asks as he glances towards the bedsroom from the couch.

“Two girls together – you know how long that means we’re going to be waiting?” Chase questions as he glances up from his phone.

“I heard that!” Sarina shouts from the room, as he just chuckles.

After a long day at Martinsville and the past few weeks, they stuck to their word in making sure to grab some time away during the off-week – just not how they originally envisioned. While it was supposed to be time away for two, finding out Lindsay was able to get some more time and Ryan’s crazy own plan landed them in Florida together.

With the sun and the beach, the past couple days had been spent simply relaxing, letting everyone get tense emotions – along with pain in some respect – out of their system without doing much. However, there was no way the boys were going to go spend time in Florida without going out a night.

“So I figured we’d go to the Tiki House,” Ryan offers as Chase nods his head accepting. With having spent previous time down there, they’d found places that worked and others that didn’t. “The girls can grab something to eat, and we can make a night out of it.”

“Oh boy,” Chase comments, knowing where this was headed. “Are you sure you’re up for that with Lindsay?” Ryan then glances over a little confused.

“I’m not that bad when I’m drun-”

“You obviously haven’t heard the stories from Sarina then about Lindsay.” Ryan was now really confused as he glances back towards the room. “Sure, Sarina isn’t one for living up – but that doesn’t mean Lindsay isn’t. She has some choice stories from going out with her fellow dancing ballerin-”

“Just because someone dances, it doesn’t mean they’re a ballerina,” Lindsay cuts him off as she comes out of the room, set to go. “Only those that do ballet, and I didn’t say that I was a ballet dancer. My mom may have been, but I took the jazz and hip hop route.”

“You’ll have to show me sometime,” Ryan says as he wraps an arm around her waist. Chase could only roll his eyes as he stood up and made his way to the room.

“Are you…almost…ready?” Chase questions, his breath catching in his throat as she spins around to face him. He felt everything turned on immediately in seeing those cowgirl shorts, t-shirt, and boots. “Damn….”

“Do I look alright?” Sarina asks, immediately worried and all Chase could do was simply nod his head back in return. “Are you sure? I mean, I could get chang-”

“No, you look absolutely perfect!” He reaches out and grabs her hand, pulling her to him. “Actually, you look better than perfect.” He then kisses her lips lightly.

“That kiss almost makes me want to stay in tonight.” He couldn’t help but smirk in return.

“Are you coming?” Ryan asks once again.

“We better go,” Chase tells her as they head out of the room together, ready for a night out.

It didn’t take long to get to the Tiki House, and an immediate round of food was on tap to kick off the night. After some influence from the boys, the girls got the taco salad – minus the tomatoes on one of the servings, along with a round of drinks.

“I still can’t believe you don’t eat tomatoes, but yet like a good dish of chicken parmesan,” Lindsay teases as Chase just shrugs his shoulders.

“I even offered to pay him $20 to eat a tomato and he wouldn’t,” Ryan recalls as Chase just rolls his eyes.

“Can we talk about something else, please?” He questions, picking at the chips.

“Fine,” Lindsay states as she looks over at Sarina. “You still haven’t touched any alcohol…” it was now Sarina’s turn to roll her eyes.

“Actually, she did if I recall a special trip,” Ryan comments, causing a glance of shock from Lindsay. “There was a beer that had vanilla and chocolate in it while we were away in Amsterda-”

“Strangest name – Goose Island,” Sarina recalls with a smile. “Caramel, vanilla, chocolate, and burnt oak. It was so good.” Chase smiles a little as he thinks back to the late night exploring he had done earlier that week as a surprise for her.

“But that’s it?” Lindsay questions and Sarina nods her head. “Get out of here!”

“I told you then and I’ll tell you now, and that’s final. But girl, don’t let me stop you tonight.” She then glances over at Chase. “Besides, I can keep an eye on this one here…”

“On me?” Chase asks as he looks over surprised.

“Oh come on, he doesn’t need a babysitter,” Lindsay comments, causing a fit of laughter from Ryan.

“You’re in for a surprise – or two for that matter tonight,” Ryan offers as he sips on his glass.

As expected, the stories continued around the table – with Lindsay inquiring more about the trip to Amsterdam last year as everybody recalled some of their favorite moments. Lindsay then offered some details of trips that she’s been able to take for dance competitions, including going to Germany a couple years ago. As those stories continued, the drinks also kept going down the hatch and it wasn’t hard to tell the boys were starting to feel it.

“Well, I’ve got to run to keep from hiding,” Ryan and Chase start singing together midway through the night. “And I’m bound to keep on riding, and I’ve got one more silver dollar but no, I’m not gonna let them catch me – no, not gonna let ‘em catch the midnight rider.”

Sarina just sat back and smiled as she watched them, earning a couple glances from Lindsay.

“Is this seriously happening right now?” Lindsay questions, earning a laugh and nod from Sarina.

“Like I said – you’re getting a surprise or two tonight,” Sarina tells her. “When you get some alcohol flowing, someone just so happens to open up more than you’d probably believe. Actually, that’s where we got our song from.” Lindsay looks over surprised as Sarina pulls out her phone, playing the audio of Chase singing ‘What if’ from when they were away.

“So wait – he dedicates you a full song and doesn’t make you delete that despite knowing you have it…” She then picks up Sarina’s hand. “And yet it took you this long to get engaged? Am I the only one that sees something wrong with this picture?” Sarina shakes her head no.

“I honestly don’t know why I held out this long to begin with now.” Ryan then comes over and puts his arms around Lindsay’s waist.

“Come dance…” He instructs, which was an offer she couldn’t resist.

“You better come too,” Chase tells her as he holds out his hand.

“I don’t want to get showed up by my cousin,” Sarina states, causing a sad face immediately on Chase’s face.

“I promise I won’t embarrass you.” She then lets out a sigh, giving in as she joins him immediately.

“You should show Lindsay how to line dance after…” Lindsay then glances over, even more surprised as Ryan and Sarina both chuckle.

“I’ve never been able to figure that out and you can?” Lindsay offers and Chase nods his head. “You were right, Ryan…”

The partying and fun continued for another couple of hours and it felt totally amazing to actually be able to focus on just themselves and fun, rather than worrying about everything. Even if just for a night, it was nice to forget the chaos that was Chris and Alison.

Around one in the morning, the group decided it was time to make their way home, heading up the short walk across the beach. Sarina and Chase walked together holding hands, laughing as Ryan tried to keep Lindsay steady, eventually picking her up and carrying her.

“Remember when they told us when we went away that they’d never connect that close?” Sarina questions and Chase nods his head.

“Should we make them say I told you so?” He wonders and she just laughs.

“Nah, it’s actually nice to see. I’m glad that she has Ryan – but not as much as I am glad that I have you.” She then leans in for a quick kiss. “When we get back to the cabin, I think I have a plan in mind for yo-”

“No.” She then looks at him with a total surprise, considering his comment earlier that night. “I love you, and I want to do right by you. That includes avoiding drunk, sloppy sex.”

“You’re not dru-”

“I am enough that I’m feeling pretty, pretty good right now. Just please?” She wanted to go back and forth, but taking a deep breath, she also respect his stance. Besides, knowing that he was always part of her life, she could wait for another time.

“I love you, and thank you.” She then snags another kiss as they reach the cabin.

********

Friday March 30, 2018 – California

“Why couldn’t they have waited until next week?” Sarina questions as they walk up to the doors of the court room. “How does a court even operate on Good Friday?”

“Because they have a habit of ruining everything,” Chase answers as he wraps an arm around her.

“Didn’t they delay us leaving for Amsterdam by a day?” Ryan wonders and they both nod their heads.

“You didn’t have to com-”

“Are you kidding me? I’d do anything for my best friend and he did poison me – remember?” Chase slowly nods his head, remembering the instant worry he felt getting that text message from Emma. “I didn’t mean to bring up sor-”

“I just feel bad for all the shit that you’ve dealt with because of this. You and Jared didn’t deserve to be poisoned, nor did you deserve to have to jump out of a plane mid-ai-”

“Do you see me complaining, Chase? it doesn’t change how I feel about you, or hanging around you, or Sarina. Besides, I got to practice my diving skills.” Chase just rolls his eyes as they take their seats. “The only person who may want to kill you is Emma.”

“That doesn’t surprise me…”

“I haven’t even met your sister yet,” Lindsay interrupts, causing a shocked expression from Chase.

“Seriously?” Chase questions and she nods her head. “I would’ve thought that she’d want to meet you immediately. She’s very protective over Ryan.”

“Can you put in a good word for me?” Chase wasn’t too sure of that based on Ryan’s first comment.

“I can try…”

They then watch as Chris is led in by the officer and Chase wraps his arm around Sarina tighter, taking a deep breath. He knew that he’d do anything in his power to protect her, and that included making sure that Chris stayed where he belonged after everything.

They then stand as the judge walks in, keeping their eyes focused forward, not wanting to give Chris the satisfaction of seeing their reactions right now.

“We are here today in matter of Chris Dryer and the psychological reconsideration,” the judge states as he opens the file. “I have received a pair of separate evaluations to consider in my findings today regarding Mr. Dryer’s future. While the psychologists will remain anonymous on record, I can state one of them found Mr. Dryer mentally capable while the other found him mentally incapable. Therefore, the decision is solely based reading through both reasonings, as well as the previous case once again to determine what will happen next.

“Although Ms. Shelley Dryer stated a fair case in feeling that Mr. Dryer is well-deserving of a second chance, I do not feel the same about that. Mr. Dryer was given multiple chances per his sister Ms. Sarina Ott, and failed to deliver on each of those accounts. He instead continued to manipulate or turn her life upside down, including the involvement of other innocent bystanders. Furthermore, reading the statements provided by those affected – Mr. Chase Elliott, Mr. Ryan Blaney, and Mr. Alan Gustafson,  it clear that his actions went above and beyond.

“Therefore, this court finds today with complete finalization that Mr. Dryer will not be given any sort of psychological release, and have to serve his full sentence as originally indicated. There will also be no further appeals, as my ruling comes at the highest level.

“Court adjourned!”

With smiles on their face and glad that one chapter was over, the group made their way out of the court room.

“Are you happy now?” Shelley questions as she passes them.

“I’d be lying if I said no,” Chase answers as he keeps his arm wrapped around Sarina tightly. “I thought you said that you’d be fair about this after you revealed your contact with Alis-”

“I was fair because I didn’t try to manipulate or push the system otherwise. I’ve also co-operated in everything with regards to her, haven’t I? It doesn’t mean that I need to be over joyous with this decision.” Chase really didn’t want to get into this here, but it was worth a shot considering what was on the line.

“Just so you’re aware, Alan and I figure there’s someone working on the inside – an official or security guard – that is allowing Alison the access that she has gotten to me and Sarina. If you know any information about that, I suggest you hand it over.” Shelley shrugs her shoulders.

“I don’t know anything. Sorry.” She then walks away as Chase glances over at Sarina.

“Do you think she’s telling the truth?” Sarina questions and Chase lets out a sigh.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if she wasn’t anymore,” he answers as they head out across the parking lot. “Ready to get back to Florida?”

“You’re not going to Road Atlanta to watch your dad?” With some time of his own to play, Bill was taking part in the vintage road racing event at Road Atlanta.

“He’s a big boy. He can handle himself – unless you want to go.” Sarina shakes her head no as they get in the car together.

“The more time that we can get away together, the better.” He nods his head in agreement.

**********************

Wednesday April 4, 2018 – Charlotte, North Carolina

Sarina walks in the front door, setting the bag down as she glances around the house.

“Back to reality, huh?” She questions as Chase walks up behind her.

“Unlike you, I do have a race this weekend,” he answers and she nods her head. “You could’ve stayed away a little lon-”

“I couldn’t stand being apart from you.” He smiles as she spins around, snagging another kiss. “I want to spend as much time as I can with you as ever humanly possible. I’d follow you across the Earth to make sure that happens, too.”

“I’m so blessed…” They then carry their bags inside and head up the stairs, placing them on the bed. “Oh, my mom is bringing Max with her this weekend. Even just being a puppy, he’s already showing how much he loves being at the track.”

“I know. I saw the photo that she took of him sitting in the car on Saturday.” Chase nods his head, as she had sent it to him before posting it on Instagram. “Your mom absolutely loves him already.”

“I didn’t know what to get her for her birthday – until I saw those brown eyes look back at me. I knew that she’d fall in love with him right away.” He then rolls over as he watches Sarina unpack. “Did you have any pets growing up?”

“I had a Dalmatian from when I was a baby until he died when I was 12.” She then lets out a small sigh. “Even through all the chaos, I could always look to Spot and she would make me smile, Chase. I could always lean on her for comfort or just ramble on to her and it’d make me feel better. Maybe that’s how I got through it at times – I don’t know.” He felt his heart crack a little in hearing that, but taking a deep breath, a smile came to his face in seeing how far she’d come.

“How about having a pet now-a-days?” She then looks at him surprised.

“Our lives are chaotic enough. Could you imagine watching a dog on top of that?” Chase chuckles as he thinks of the possibilities.

“If we really wanted to, we could make it work. We’re very determined people after all.” He then glances over at her cowboy boots as she takes them out of the bag. “Those are coming with you, right?”

“You just love seeing me in those, don’t you?” He just smirks a little.

“Is there anything wrong with that?” She shakes her head no as she goes over to the closet, grabbing a hat and twirling around to face him. “Now that’s even better….”

“You know what to do Sunday….” He lets out a sigh, knowing what she meant immediately, just nodding his head in return. It was time to make it happen.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 59: Martinsville Double

 

Sunday March 26, 2018 – Charlotte, North Carolina

With the race being postponed until Monday and not really encouraged by another night in the motorcoach, the group made the two hour trek back up home, with Ryan dropping off Sarina and Chase at their place.

Knowing that Monday would be a long day regardless of what happened, Sarina knew she needed to do whatever it took to make sure that Chase was as comfortable as possible for that night. It was why she snuck into the bathroom, running a bubble bath with her bath soak that she had gotten for nights after long races with Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Lemongrass in it.

“How are you feeling?” She asks, heading back into the bedsroom after running it. Since getting back to the house, Chase had spent the day relaxing in the bed, trying to do as little as possible.

“Sore,” he answers, as she lets out a soft sigh. “I heard you running water in the bathroom…”

“I thought a nice, hot bubble bath would do you some good. It may help ease some of the pain, actually. I put my bubble bat-”

“So I’m going to smell like a flower now?” She then chuckles, shaking her head no.

“It doesn’t smell like flowers, Chase. It’s actually a nice peppermint to it. I wouldn’t punish you that much…” He smiles as he glances over. “Let me help you there and out of your clothes, and in the water. You’ll thank me afterwards, I promise.”

“Anything that’ll help…” He then slowly gets up, letting out an aggravated sigh. He then carefully stands up and follows her to the bathroom.

“I feel so bad for you right now…” She then wraps her arms around him. “Is it getting any easier?” He shrugs his shoulders with a sigh, before undoing his jeans.

“Sometimes I don’t feel it as bad, and other times I can’t stand it.” She just lets out a sigh as he drops his pants.

“Chase, are you sure about tomorrow? I mean, we both know what Martinsville can be like. Are you sure that you can run that?” He nods his head as she resisted the urge to strangle him. “I mean, if I was you, I would run until the first caution and get someone to tak-”

“And what did you tell me when I suggested that to you last year?” She lets out a sigh as he slips off his boxers.

“I wasn’t as sore as you are right now, was I?” He just glances away, as he begins to lift his top up. “Chase, I’m just looking out for you….”

“I appreciate that, but I will be fine, okay?” He then begins to lift it further up. “Fuck…”

“Let me help you….” She slips it off the rest of the way, as carefully as possible, noticing the marks up and down his back immediately. “Damn…”

“What?” She then runs her fingertips along them lightly, before wrapping her arms around him.

“I didn’t realize how bad that was. You’re a rainbow…” He lets out a sigh, noticing it in the mirror as he took a look. “Are you sure?”

“I’ll be fine…” He then leans in and kisses her lips. “Besides, tomorrow is a new day, right?” He then slowly climbs in the water, slipping down and laying back as he lets out a sigh. “That actually feels nice….”

“Good, because afterwards you’re getting a nice massage, and then laying down relaxing for the rest of the night after taking one of the strong pain pills so you get a good sleep. Got it?” He glances over at her.

“Yes, Nurse Ott.” She then smiles a little as she goes to leave the bathroom. He then reaches out, and grabs her hand. “Where are you running off to?”

“I was going to just let you relax…” A smirk slowly forms on his face as he looks into her eyes.

“It’d be more relaxing if you’d join me, actually.”

“If you say so…” She smiles a little, slipping off her t-shirt and shorts without another word as she joins him.

The pair quietly soaked in the water for an hour, talking about anything randomly on their minds. They joked about some of their favorites from the Cole Swindell concert, talk about their plans for the off-weekend, and their thoughts heading into tomorrow’s races at Martinsville. It felt weird to be racing on a Monday, but there was nothing better than being at a short track.

With the water cooled off, Sarina pulled the drain plug, before the pair rinsed off in the shower.

“Thank you,” Chase says, before kissing her lips lightly. “You’re doing a great job taking care of me.” She then wraps her arms around him.

“That’s because I love you, and I’d do anything for you – just as you would for me,” she answers. “I just wish I didn’t have to take care of you this much.” He nods his head, agreeing.

“Like you said, it’ll be over soon…” He then kisses her lips lightly once again. “See, this whole bath and shower thing together, it was a great idea – except for one reason.” She then glances down, chuckling as she knew the answer right away.

“You know, I could always take care of you in that department, too – but not here. I don’t want you slipping and hurting yourself worse.” He then reaches to turn the water off.

“Then what are we waiting for?” She just rolls her eyes, though easily follows his lead getting out.

Monday March 27, 2018 – Martinsville Speedway

“Are you going to watch the race from my pit box?” Sarina questions as they come out of the NAPA hauler, both dressed in their respective firesuits.

“I’m going to try and get done what I need to do as quickly as possible and make it in time,” he answers, knowing there were a couple places that he needed to visit for sponsors first.

“Just take it easy, okay?” He nods his head, leaning in for a quick kiss. “I’ll try and join Alan for your race – but remember what I said.”

“Stop reminding me….” They then head off in separate directions, ready to tackle what the day had to offer.

Given that Morgan wasn’t in the trailer, he made his way to the garage area, wondering if she was there with the guys, or simply hadn’t shown up yet. Regardless, it wasn’t a bad idea to check in with Alan anyway.

“Is this real what I am seeing right now?” Alan questions as Chase makes his way over. “I mean, you’re seriously ready to go for today as if nothing happened?”

“Absolutely,” Chase answers, surprised by the crew chief’s reaction. “Why else would I be in my firesuit?” Alan felt every bit of concern watching in response.

“I was half expecting Justin today, to be honest. But okay, you’re running until the first caut-”

“I’m running the full distanc-”

“Are you insane?” Chase almost chuckled, considering everything lately.

“I’m not, but rather I’m fine and I can run today without a single problem. So before you freak out and give me a lecture, let’s just focus on business here.” Alan crosses his arms as he glances up and down his driver.

“How can I do that considering what has happened lately?” Chase just shrugs his shoulders.

“I do that every day, right? Everybody tells me to not worry about Alison or Chris, and everything is going to work out. Why should today be any different? I mean, I ran Daytona the day that I crashed the plane – at least I had a day to relax and recover in between.” A smirk forms on Chase’s face as he thinks about the previous night with Sarina. The massage was nice, but certainly the other offers there worked nicely. Estrogens were released, as she put it, helping that healing.

“I’m still worried about you, but if you say you’re ready to go, then what else can I do? Can you just promise me that you’ll say something on the radio if it gets to be too much?” Chase nods his head, accepting. “And they haven’t caught Alison at all?”

“Not that I’ve heard yet.” Alan could only roll his eyes in response.

“Shannon and I were talking about it last nig-”

“Great bedsroom tal-”

“She has to have someone on the inside helping her if you’re asking us. How else does she drop you off a note at each track? How else does she sneak in the hauler in California? How else does she get your hands on you Saturday night here? I don’t know whether it’s a security guard, or an official, but someone has to be helping her.” Chase crosses his arms, hating the thought that someone would work with Alison on a plan such as hers. It just seemed sick in his mind.

“But who, Alan?” Alan shrugs his shoulders.

“It could be any official or any security officer for all we know, right? I mean, we don’t know many of them that well – not that I want to, either.” Chase chuckles a little. “It’s just it seems very odd that she can do that so easily despite everybody having a description of her and looking for her.”

“She snuck into Hooters right under everybody’s noses, too.” Alan nods his head, remembering that experience. “Can I be honest for a second?” Alan nods his head once again, carefully. “I’m trying to listen to whatever everybody is saying and looking ahead, not letting her bother me. But the fact that she brought a plane down, the fact she laced my drink, the fact that she was able to almost get her hands on me in the trailer, and the fact that she made me fall on my ass here is not very comforting at all. I’m probably more afraid that I am willing to admit to anybody.”

“And I’ve told you – that’s reasonable and acceptab-”

“Not when you have the thought of Chris possibly getting off scrap free, and that scaring the crap out of Sarina.” Alan places a hand on his shoulder.

“I know you want to be strong for her, and do what you need to do for her – but Chase, you have to realize that sometimes you can’t be superman and sometimes you need that back in return. It’s okay to let your guard down and accept that you can’t do it all. It’s okay to admit that Sarina that it’s hard to be strong for her right now because of what’s going on because she’ll get it..” Chase nods his head, accepting.

“Thanks…” He then watches Morgan head over their way. “I’ll see you later on today. Let’s kick some ass, alright?”

“Absolutely.”

“Welp, that didn’t go as I thought it would,” Sarina comments as she leans back against the truck, running her hands through her hair.

While expecting to be a front running contender all race long having won the fall event last year, her and Rudy struggled to find the right handling with the truck that she was looking for, no matter the adjustments. They were able to get it closer in the second half to where she wanted, allowing her to go from running mid top-10 most of the race into scoring a solid fifth.

“It could’ve been worse, right?” Rudy offers and she nods her head, accepting. “We both just need to keep working at it. I need to figure what you need a little better, and you need to keep working at your feedback. If we can do that, we’ll be fine by the time we get to September. That’s when it counts.” She smiles a little, knowing that he was right as that was playoff time. There was no playing around then if they wanted to walk away with a championship.

“I appreciate your continued hard work and I will keep work at being even better myself. Like, I could freak out and be angry because this isn’t what I want – or I could be thankful we ran our best at the end for a top-five and became better throughout.” Rudy smiles a little.

“I like your spirit.” Rudy then leans back against the truck beside her. “I know I may be as rough as ever on you, but that’s because I want you to see you become the star that you can be. You have a lot of talent and can be right there with the best. I don’t want to let you down, and I don’t want to see us fall short because of something we’re missing. So I apologize for being an ass, if it seems possible.” She smiles a little as she glances over at him.

“It’s okay. It comes from a good place, and that’s what matters to me.” Rudy nods a little.

“I also know that you’re going through a lot right now with whatever is going on with your brother and that chick. If you ever need a break, or something, you can ask me.” She nods her head, accepting, surprised by this given their beginnings.

“Being here at the track, working on the truck, driving the truck, and being at the shop is the best therapy. It’s time that my mind doesn’t have time to wonder about what is possible. So really, by you putting me to work, you’re doing me good.”

“Well, I can always do that. I know you’re going to take some time this week with Chase – and reasonably so – but I want you to watch back the race, along with the in-car audio, and see where you could’ve been better, or something that maybe I missed, so we can talk about that when you get back. Then you can start reviewing some video for Dover…” She nods her head, accepting.

“A whole month without racing again. I may scream by the time this is over.” He chuckles as he goes to walk away.

“I don’t want to be Chase during that time….” She just laughs as she goes to follow, heading up into the hauler.  Glancing at the time, she had just enough time to get changed and be out to the No. 9 pit box for the green flag.

From the drop of the green flag, faith in another strong day at the paperclip was there immediately, as she watched him drive his way from 21^st all the way up into just outside of the top-10 in the opening stage. Entering the next two stages, she knew it was just a matter of time until he would be up there battling with the front runners.

Well, that was the theory anyway. Surprisingly, the second stage and first half of the last stage did not go that way at all. Instead, Chase struggled to find the feel that he wanted in the car despite continuous feedback to Alan and adjustments in return. Sarina could shake her head in disbelief as he went down a lap twice, but was glad to see him get the lucky dog twice in the process.

“Starting to come back to me here,” she hears on the radio halfway through the final stage, which improved her mood immediately as she knew that meant progress was going to be made forward.

She watched him catch car after car, making passes with ease, ultimately crossing the finish line in ninth. Considering where they were most of the day, she wasn’t about to complain.

“I thought our last run was way better than what we had had before that,” she stands back as he talks to the media. “But, we were just way too far off there for the majority of the day to expect that you are going to catch up by the end. We have some work to do.”

He gives them a small wave before making his way over to where Sarina was standing, wrapping his arms around her as he lets out a sigh.

“I don’t know what to say,” he offers as he glances over at Alan who was with her. “If it was me today, I’m sorry man. I tried to give you what I could back in return.”

“You did nothing wrong,” Alan replies as he pats his shoulder lightly. “You gave me some great feedback. I can name one big adjustment that I went too far with, and another that maybe should’ve gone another way. It’s just figuring out the balance of the new Camaro, right?” Chase nods his head in agreement. “We’ll figure it out; we always do working together. Enjoy your vacation time, and we’ll make it happen at Texas.”

“Don’t work too hard.” Alan smiles as he walks away, heading back over to the team. “I bet you’re ready for that vacation…”

“Absolutely,” Sarina replies as she kisses his lips. “I can definitely use some time to just let loose. Are you okay?” Chase nods his head as they head into the garage area together.

“Sore, but I can handle it,” he tells her as he looks over at her, grabbing her hand. “I’m fine, we’re fine, and we’re going to be okay no matter what.”