The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 247: Damien’s Plea

Friday, May 10 – Arizona Court Room

Sarina stands by the door, taking a deep breath as she leans back against the wall.

“You should’ve gone to Kansas with Chase,” Christopher comments and she shakes her head no immediately.

“One of us needed to be here to take a stand,” she offers as he reaches out, rubbing her shoulders.

“I appreciate your strength, and I applaud you for everything that you continue to do, but you also need to realize your limits. You don’t always have to be the picture of strength. You can let those walls fall, and admit that you cannot do something.” She had been told that several times by more people than Christopher, but it just never seemed to stuck.

“That’s not who I am, though. I was always the fighter, the one doing whatever it took, standing up to someone. I can’t just snap my fingers and do that, Christopher. I can’t let myself become the weak pers-”

“You wouldn’t be, though, because everybody knows you as a pillar of strength for what you’ve done so far. Everybody knows how tough everything that you’re battling through is, and understands. Everybody would realize why you can’t just walk in that court room and be there alongside Carter. I was there in the bedsroom that day. I know what you went through. I saw the emotions on your face. It’s okay…” She slowly looks up off of the floor, letting each word carefully soak in. She almost made the choice to leave as suggested, reflecting on what he was telling her and what happened the other week. However, she couldn’t bring herself to follow through with that.

“I appreciate your advice, but I am going to do what I want to do here.” She then takes a deep breath, fixing her shirt once more, before turning to face the doors. She then takes another careful deep breath, entering the court room.

Knowing that Carter was on the right side sitting in the defendant’s chair, she kept her eyes focused forward as she took her seat on the left side of the room behind Kyle and Alycia. It was refreshing knowing that Alycia was on that side now, with nothing facing them head on.

“You have our support,” Christopher says quietly as he sits down alongside her with Morgan. Sarina simply nodded her head back in response, eyes still focused solely forward. “By the way, Chase was 16^th in first practice.”

“Seriously?” Christopher shows her the screen with the live timing from the first Cup practice. “Ugh, that’s just the icing on the cake for today.”

“All rise!” The baliff announces as he had done previous weeks. Everybody stands up accordingly. “Now presenting the honorable Judge Jackson Pruitt.” Sarina’s eyes remain focused on the judge’s seat, watching Jackson take his seat as he had done the previous weeks. It felt nice to not be on the side of the criticism.

“You may be seated,” the judge announces, as everybody takes their seats accordingly in the room. “The court has received a motion as submitted by district attorney Kyle Gates. It appears as though one of the defendants will be changing their plea in trade for a lightened sentence. Am I reading the document correctly, Kyle Gates?”

“Yes sir,” Kyle replies as he gives Alycia a quick glance afterwards. It was nice to see them working together than against each other, as it probably should’ve been from the beginning.

“Damien Crane, may you please stand?” Damien follows the request, catching the aura of not only his lawyer by Carter and Alison. “According to this document before me, you are prepared to plead guilty to the charges of conspiracy of rape, conspiracy of attempted rape, conspiracy of drugging, robbery, impersonation of a law official. Is that correct, sir?”

“Yes sir,” Damien replies as Sarina glances down, taking a couple deep breathes. It never got easy hearing the word ‘rape’ mentioned, causing her stomach to flip each time. The gentle hand squeeze from Christopher at the same time was comforting.

“You also have pled guilty to two counts of harassment previously,” Judge Jackson Pruitt continues reading the document before him. “In exchange for your testimony in the court today, you will be serving a total of seven years along with being placed on the sexual offenders list. Are you aware of the sentence and accepting of the consequences?”

“Yes sir.” Judge Jackson Pruitt initials the piece of paper before setting it aside.

“You may come up to the stand to state your case.” Damien follows the request, taking a seat in the witness box. Sarina had been focusing her eyes forward, and that didn’t change as she let herself stare right at him. Considering he had a good hand in screwing with Chase’s life for a series of months, she wanted to hear what happened.

“Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help you God?” The baliff asks, and Damien Crane nods his head in return.

“I do,” he states as he holds his hand on the bible, before taking his seat accordingly.

“Mr. Crane, please take us back to the beginning of your association with Mr. Elliott,” Kyle Gates requests as he stands up to begin the questioning. Alycia had thought about handling it herself, but Kyle assured her that he’d do a good job while covering everything she had listed to be mentioned.

“I was approached by Mr. Carter Williams in February. I was running my own security detail company and he was aware of that via previous dealings. He mentioned that he knew of someone looking for personal security, which was Mr. Chase Elliott. He wanted me to take on the job, accepting the payment that would be offered – with a twist. He wanted me to create ways that he could gain access unaware to Mr. Elliott and his fellow parties. In exchange, he’d be paying me double my normal rate – on top of what Mr. Elliott was going to pay me.”  Sarina shakes her head as she listens, as it appeared money was the root of all evil once again. Why were these people easily bribed?

“Following the meeting with Mr. Williams, you got in touch with Mr. Elliott to discuss the services he was requiring, correct?” Damien nods his head, remembering the meeting in the hauler. He had to chuckle as he looked back at how things went down.

“Once I inquired about being willing to fulfill the request, Mr. Elliott arranged a meeting for myself and a fellow team member at the race track in his team’s hauler. Although Mr. Alan Gustafson was originally scheduled to attend, there was another member who was there instead – Mr. Ron Malec, I believe. I simply stated my company’s background and what we were prepared to do. I then stated that I was aware of Mr. Williams and his actions, and could easily prevent him from previous dealings. At that point, Mr. Malec became quite questionable about my intentions spilling into a debate, which Mr. Elliott did not take too kindly to and quickly shut off our meeting. Ultimately, I was not allowed the position.” Sarina smiles as she knew Ron deserved yet another hug for catching that so quickly in the discussion. She couldn’t even imagine how worse things could’ve gotten if Damien would’ve gotten the requested access.

“That, in return, resulted in you stalking both Mr. Elliott and Mrs. Laiken Baumgartner about the business opportunity – which you previously discussed with the courts. However, you had a more recent encounter with Mr. Elliott. How did that come together?”  Damien looks over at Carter, smiling as he couldn’t wait to finally spill everything out. No amount of money was worth what ended up transpiring.

“Carter came to me and stated that he was certain that his fate was going to be guilty as a result of the testimony in the court. He wanted to make sure that Mr. Elliott and Mrs. Elliott got a final going away present in style, the big one, before everything went down. He detailed to me how he had gotten his lawyer Ms. Nellie Martin to set up a psychological council for Mr. Elliott at the Delaware facility where Ms. Alison Reynolds was staying. He wanted me to use my security experience to make sure Ms. Reynolds got the access she required.” Sarina couldn’t help but smile in hearing everything come to light, as that perfectly matched up with the conspiracy theory and spelled it out for the jury. It’d be a miracle if they didn’t convict Carter, Alison, and Nellie now.

“Please detail how you accomplished the plan…” Damien still couldn’t believe how easy it was to make everything happen.

“I inquired with a friend that I knew was working at the Delaware facility about whether I could be hired for a job there. He told me that they were working, and he’d help me get in there so I could get some extra money even with the conviction over my head. He was successful, and I was hired as part of the psychological criminal ward security.” Sarina shakes her head in disgust, as she watches Alycia make a couple notes in the process. She already knew their next process would be taking down the facility.

“Being part of that wing gave you access to Mr. Elliott when he came in for his psychological evaluation…” Damien nods his head, remembering the discussion they had together. He still applauded Chase for how easily he co-operated, and was able to put together enough of a performance for everything to fall together.

“Once I saw the room that Mr. Elliott was placed in for waiting, I entered. I then explained to him that Carter was at his house and would go after Sarina and his daughter if he didn’t co-operate as planned. Of course, he listened to protect his family.” Sarina looks down, feeling a couple tears trickle down her face. He had gone through everything he did with Alison thinking that it was protecting her and Abigial. However, it seemed that Carter did not follow through as he was supposed to. “I instructed him to put on a show, find a way to get taken down to the maximum security department so that way I could arrange a surprise for him. He did as requested, shoving me, freaking out that I was not who I claimed to be and should be there. It caught the attention of staff, who cuffed him and took him down to a room.”

“Evidence 1A – a copy of the incident report as written up by the officer who escorted Mr. Chase Elliott to the room that day. Evidence 1B – a video of the incident as described by Mr. Damien Crane in the hallway.” The jury looks over the evidence in question as Kyle keeps his eyes focused on Damien. He almost wanted to look over at Nellie to see if she was squirming in her seat yet. “What did you do once Mr. Elliott was in the room?”

“I snuck into the medicine room via my staff card. I stole a vile of propofol and a vile of ketamine. Both of those drugs were handed over to Ms. Alison Reynolds for her using.” Sarina shakes her head as she couldn’t believe it had been so easy for everything to come together for them.

“Why did you hand those drugs over to Ms. Alison Reynolds?” Damien smiles as he takes a glance over at Alison, before focusing back on Kyle.

“Propofol is an anesthetic that Ms. Alison Reynolds was supposed to use to knock out the doctor when he came to check on her. Ketamine is a date-rape drug that Mr. Carter Williams requested I give her for what she wanted to do to Mr. Chase Elliott. She was supposed to knock out the doctor, steal his key card, and sneak into Chase’s room.”

“Evidence 1C – the drug report from Delaware State Hospital that shows ketamine was in Mr. Chase Elliott’s system. Evidence 1D – the drug report from the Delaware State Hospital that shows propofol was in Dr. Rick Spawn’s system. Evidence 1E – a video of the encounter in the hallway to where you see Ms. Alison Reynolds escape her room and enter the room Mr. Chase Elliott was placed in. Mr. Damien Crane, thank you for your time.”

“Any questions?” Judge Jackson Pruitt asks Nellie Martin once Kyle has taken his seat.

“What else can I say?” Nellie Martin questions in response. “He is obviously fabricating this story to get himself a lesser sentence.” Alycia smiled as she knew that wasn’t going to work, given that the video and physical evidence backed up all the claims being made. However, she had a point.

“Judge Jackson Pruitt, may I ask the witness a question?” Alycia Burrows requests, catching everyone’s attention. The judge had thought he was done with her actions once she cleared Chase of all charges.

“You may go ahead,” Judge Jackson Pruitt allowed, despite his own questions about her motive.

“Mr. Damien Crane, you wanted to enter this plea bargain as early as last Friday. Can you state why that did not happen?” Nellie Martin immediately glanced over with eye slits, as she knew the direction that Alycia was going with this questioning.

“Ms. Nellie Martin advised against me doing that whole trying to assure me that I had nothing to worry about,” Damien Crane explains. “That was when I asked the guard to contact Mr. Kyle Gates on my behalf.”

“Thank you,” Alycia replies, before sitting down with her own smile. That was the last piece of the puzzle to connect the conspiracy together.

“You may go back to your seat,” Judge Jackson Pruitt allows, releasing Damien Crane from the witness box. “Court will convene at a later date with more testimony. Court adjourned!”

Everybody quickly files out, with Alycia sharing a quick hug of assurance with Sarina, before leaving.

“Are you okay?” Christopher asks as he walks with her out of the court room.

“I will be okay,” Sarina answers as she wipes the stray tears off of her face.

“I’m proud of you for sitting through that without freaking out. that shows a lot of strength.” She smiles a little as she glances over, still wiping tears off of her face.

She just hoped that everything would pan out with all loose ends actually tied up this time.

Friday, May 10 – Kansas Speedway

With the final practice in the books, Chase had to admit that he was happier than he was earlier in the day. He had managed to post the sixth quickest lap in the session, giving him confidence that they had something for qualifying later that afternoon. More importantly, he felt they had the adjustability built in the car for tomorrow night.

“Hey, is Abigail okay?” Chase questions once he and Jimmie got done debriefing with their crew chiefs following the practice session.

“Chandra says that she’s been a perfect angel,” Jimmie assures him. “She ate without any issues, had a little stinky but that was cleaned without issues, and been giggling with the girls. By the way, my daughters absolutely adore her already so you have some helpers if ever necessary.” Chase smiles, as he was glad to hear that things were going well with Abigail. It certainly helped with the range of nerves that he was experiencing.

“You already know how much Livie and I love each other so she is always welcome to come over to help.” Jimmie actually had to appreciate the bond that they formed together last year, knowing how much that had helped Chase.

“Well if you ever need a pick me up during the summer when you’re running the split schedule with Sarina, don’t hesitate to send me a text as I’ll send her over.” Chase nods his head, accepting. He was hoping this year went smoother than last year’s nerves and worries, though. “Did Sarina text you at all?”

“She said that everything went according to plan. Damien told the story perfectly, and connected all the dots in relation to Carter, Alison, and Nellie. She feels that the jury should already have everything put together in their minds – with the testimony to follow just being par for the course and sealing the deal.” Jimmie was glad to hear that as he didn’t want to see them go through this any longer.

“That’s perfect. Now, are you ready to testify, again?” Chase takes a deep breath, as it was never easy going back down the path of Alison’s actions against him. However, he was going to do whatever necessary to make sure his girls were protected.

“I just have to get up there and say what happened. I’ve done it before, I can do it again.” Jimmie knew he had done it before, but that didn’t give him assurance about a third round of testimony.

“But are you sure that you can handle that, and you’re okay?” Chase glances away, before looking back towards Jimmie. There was a simple answer to offer.

“I’m not the one who is dealing with flashbacks of being raped in my own bedsroom. My dad got there before Alison was able to take it that far. I could only wish that was the case for Sarina. Heck, Carter wasn’t even supposed to be in the room.” Jimmie hadn’t heard the details, but could tell by those simple words that there was regret and pain to be heard.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Chase shakes his head no, knowing that he couldn’t bother to fully detail everything from the beginning for Jimmie. “Okay, that’s fine. But I want you to know that I’m here if you ever do you want to talk about it, and my daughter is always available for comfort.”

“I appreciate that, Jimmie. Thank you.”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 246: Gander RV 400

Monday, May 6 – Dover International Speedway

Starting on pole, Chase was able to take the early lead, and cruise away with a decent advantage over the field. That gap was erased when the caution came out late in the first stage. While Alan Gustafson elected to put four tires on the NAPA Chevrolet, a couple others elected for just two tires. As a result, he’d finish the first stage in third.

He then started off the second stage well, taking the lead once again and pacing several laps ahead of the field. However, he was unable secure the stage victory, fading late for a fourth-place finish.

He’d consistently run in the top-five through the final stage, ultimately crossing the finish line with a fifth-place finish.

“It was just too free at the end,” he tells Alan after climbing out of the car post-race. “No matter what line I tried, that little bit of freeness in it didn’t allow me to get back in the throttle as quick I needed to so I could catch Kevin, Kyle.”

“I probably should’ve put a little more air in the right front under that last stop,” Alan summarizes as he thinks back through the adjustments they made through the event leading to the final run to the checkered. “I hate it because we had such a good car.”

“I know. It bugs me more so that we lost it at the end, then anything. It’s one to thing to lead early, but like we always say – the last stretch is what matters at the end of the day, and that was our weakest point.” Alan lets out a sigh as he leans back against the car.

“I’m sorry. I hate that I didn’t give you what you needed.” Chase looks over at him.

“I’m sorry I didn’t give you the feedback you needed.” Alan glances down pit road, before looking back towards Chase.

“It could be worse. We could still be running in teens struggling with the car. It feels much better to be up front.” Chase couldn’t argue with that as it was nice to see the hard work that they were putting in paying off.

“We could also be worried about making the playoffs, when we know right now that we’re locked in. I could also be sitting somewhere else right now.” Alan didn’t want to mention back to yesterday, but he knew that Chase was referencing that with his comment.

“You totally didn’t deserve to go through everything that you did. I am so glad that you have Alycia in your corner and she’s kicking ass.” Chase nods his head, as he couldn’t complain about the outcome so far.

“I hope that it pans out right, and she manages to get them all locked away in all the charges.” He then runs his hands through his hair with a sigh. “I want to believe it it’s over, Alan. I want it to be over. I want to move forward and help Sarina move forward. But I can’t do that until I know everything is done.”

“Basically, you’re saying that you need the closure…” Alan reaches over, giving Chase’s shoulder a little squeeze to catch his attention. “You’re going to get that this time. You don’t do what they’ve done and get away with it forever. There’s no way that they can weasel out of this one.”

Tuesday, May 7 – Hendrick Motorsports

Alan walks through the shop, stopping as he reaches his driver. He glances into the box, picking up one of the Styrofoam pizza slices before looking over at Chase confused.

“You can blame Sarina,” Chase starts as Alan was even more confused now. “Little Caesar’s sent the box as part of their sponsorship and it’s been kicking around the house. She thought it’d be a cute momento to hand out to the crew guys with the stickers for the win. I think she just sent it with me because she was afraid Fletcher would get into them.”

“Actually, they’re kind of cute,” Alan muses as he twirls the piece in his fingers. “And she is right – it’d be fitting given the sponsorship. So, are you ready to push the bell around campus?” Chase smiles as it was always a nice treat to do following a victory, even if a couple weeks past it.

“I hope you took some Tylenol because there’s going to be a lot of ringing going on….”

The pair began to make their way through the Hendrick Motorsports campus, stopping at each department along the way with Chase leading the bell to the employees. Each person took their turn ringing the bell, before receiving a small decal and Styrofoam pizza slice from Alan.

As they head towards the gym where the pit crew was working out, Chase hears his phone go off. He then reaches into his pocket, checking the message.

“Really?” Alan questions as he stops the golf kart at the door opening. “I need your help unloading, let ‘em ring, and then you can do whatever you wan-”

“It’s from Alycia,” Chase cuts him off, knowing that’d solve any answers as to why he was bothering with it.

“Take your time.” Alan then sits back, giving Chase the odd glance as he watches him type a couple messages back and forth with her. No matter what they were discussing, he knew it was important and he wasn’t about to mess with legal business. However, it also didn’t help he was getting more curious with each passing second.

“She wants to meet up tonight to talk about Damien. He is looking for a plea deal.” Alan glances over puzzled. He thought they weren’t about leaving any loose ties this time around.

“We allowed Alison to get a plea deal before, and Carter got to play around. Do you realize where that got us, Chase?” Chase nods his head, taking a deep breath. He still regretted the decisions he made through the process with Alison the first time. It was why he promised himself to be extra careful with it ever since.

“I already told Alycia that he isn’t getting off scott free as I want each of them to receive jail time and the punishment necessary for what they did. However, we’re also trying to avoid forcing Sarina to testify.” Alan could understand wanting to draw that line as he knew how tore up she was about what happened – and reasonably so. He couldn’t imagine forcing her to testify under those circumstances.

“So we’re going to let him get away with this for Sarina’s sake? I don’t want to sound rude or as if I have no sympathy for Sarina’s situation as I do, but I don’t want you taking chances and then regretting them later because something happened. Besides, isn’t there enough evidence?” Chase had believed that, remembering his own words that he had told Sarina multiple times since when the discussion of her testifying came up. However, he was beginning to doubt his own theory in speaking with Alycia.

“Alycia says the evidence can be twisted different ways to make Carter appear not guilty, or a little less guilty that he is. Hence why they’d prefer to have final word from Sarina to lock down everything. However, she also understands where I am coming from. If we can get Damien to plea to a deal with lesser jail time, he would testify and offer the connecting dots – Carter’s explanation to him to be at the facility, and how he cornered me. Now if then connect that with my testimony, Carter’s history as described in court already, combined with the evidence, he won’t be able to weasel his way out of that.”

Tuesday, May 7 – Dawsonville, Georgia

Chase takes a glance over the papers that Alycia laid before him when he arrived, which included the statement from Damien.

“He submitted that through the court himself,” Alycia starts. “He called upon a meeting with (district attorney) Kyle (Gates) and got him to draw up the paperwork for your review. The fact that he is doing it without legal advice or counsel further proves the theory that your dad came up with.” Chase remembered that discussion, and how he believed it all – except Nellie originally. However, the more he thought it over, the more it made sense.

“Nellie is in co-hoots with them about what happened?” Chase offers and Alycia nods her head. “So if he was to go to Nellie and suggest taking a plea, she would do anything in her power to not allow that to happen because she’d be worried about her own doings coming out.” Alycia nods her head, glad that Chase was putting the pieces together as easily as she had upon receiving the notice from Kyle.

“So not only would his testimony further place and back-up what happened to you and Sarina, it’d also help prove the conspiracy theory that we’re creating with all four of them. Now once this gets in the open, I’d be interested to see what Nellie does – whether she tries to spin it, or will she bail in hopes of saving what’s left of her dignity?” Chase glances back over the paperwork, thinking if he wanted to start a trail of allow plea deals – the regret of Alison still creeping in at the back of his mind.

“Nellie is the least of my worries, if we’re being honest. So she got talked into playing a role in what happened. If anything, we could bet that she was possibly coerced by Carter.” Alycia nods her head, having debated that theory herself. It had almost brought her to set-up a meeting with Nellie to discuss the trail of events. “But I am not taking chances with Alison, Carter, or Damien. I told you when I started this with you – I’m done playing games. I want this over and done with so I can move on with my life. I can’t do this anymore, Alycia.”

“I know, I understand completely given what you’ve been through, as well as Sarina and everybody else. That’s why on Sunday, I told you that I am sticking with this to the very end and doing what I can in my power with Kyle to make sure that they’re locked away. I want to be the person to end this for you, okay?” Chase nods his head, accepting, as he lets out a sigh.

“I appreciate everything that you’re doing.” He then looks back down at the paper. “So what are we going to do about this letter of intent from Damien?”

“He’s currently being charged with conspiracy of rape, conspiracy of attempted rape, conspiracy to drugging, robbery in relation to the drugs, impersonation of a law official – plus he has the previous harassment charges on your behalf and Laiken’s behalf. He’s always been convicted of two counts of harassment – that comes with a year in pris-”

“Then why was he allowed to work at the Delaware Facility?” Alycia shakes her head as she’d been trying to wrap her arms that for awhile now.

“He was allowed freedom at the time due to no sentence being levied yet with the trial still in session, and bail with a clean record. However, that does not explain the Delaware Facility’s choice to hire him. once I am done making sure that these four co-hoots are dealt with, the Delaware Facility will be next on my hit list with a full detailed investigation, followed by possible charges and such to follow.” Chase was glad to see that was on her radar as he still shook his head in how the trail of events took place. “Getting back to Damien, if he was convicted of those other charges, 13 and a half years would be added to his sentence – bringing him to a total of 14 and a half years.”

“Would he be credited with time served?” Alycia shakes her head no, but was impressed by Chase thinking to ask the question as they were discussing this. “What’s the plea deal that he is looking for?”

“He’ll do the duty of testifying for us, telling the full story of Carter getting him involved with you in the beginning to try and do your security detail, to what happened at the Delaware Facility if he only has to serve half of the sentence. So essentially, that’d be seven years. He’d also be placed on the sex offenders list for the conspiracy to rape and sexual assault.” Chase glances down, taking a deep breath. It never got easier no matter how many times the words ‘rape’ and ‘sexual assault’ were mentioned in passing conversation.

“So he’s been in co-hoots with Carter since the very first meeting that we had?” Alycia nods her head, pointing to the line in the letter of intent that points that out. “I was surprised at how quickly Ron Malec jumped on him in Daytona and called him out. However, I am glad that Ron was there because he deserved that. For what it’s worth, though, seven years is worth it because he serves the time that needs to, and as you said, it accomplishes a bunch of other goals that we had in mind.”

“As soon as you give me the go ahead, I will contact Kyle and let him know that we are agreeing to the plea deal. He will then get Damien to sign off on the paperwork. The next court session, we will begin with the statement being made of the plea deal and his testimony.” Chase nods his head, accepting. He was actually interested to get some truth in the matter from Damien for a change.

“You have my permission.” Alycia smiles as she hands over the piece of paper for Chase to sign accordingly.

Thursday, May 9 – NAPA Store Opening in Tennessee

Chase takes a couple more photos, followed by a couple autographs, as the festivities of the store opening finish up. While he was glad to be there and support the sponsor, his eyes kept finding their way over to Sarina and watching what she was doing.

Once the final image of the day was taken, he makes his way over to her, slowly wrapping his arms around her. He feels her initially jump at the slightest touch, though then feels the relaxation through her as she looks at the hands.

“Are you okay?” He questions and she simply nods her head. She then turns around to face him.

“Did you do everything you needed to do?” She wonders, and he nods his head back in return. While she wouldn’t say it, he knew that she didn’t want to be there longer than necessary. “Abigail was very behaved. She slept most of the time, thankfully.”

“It seems she’s getting used to constantly traveling with her momma as we hoped. But what about you? I want to know how you’re feeling, Sarina..” She then lets out a sigh as she takes her eyes off of him.

“I thought I could move forward like nothing happened. I could do what I needed to do, be me, race and do my job, as if nothing happened. But I can’t do that, Chase.” He then begins lightly rubbing her shoulders.

“It’s okay. Everybody that knows what happened understa-”

“But I don’t want to the special treatment, Chase. I don’t want to be treated differently, more delicately, because some man touched me all over and took advantage of me. I don’t want to be this perceived delicate flower.” Chase shakes his head with a chuckle.

“I think it’s the complete opposite. You’re seen stronger than ever because you’ve shown that you can stand up to him, and you can do what you need to do to power through everything. Those who knew admired and were shocked by your courage shown since what happened. Kyle even said that to me when we were at the infertility discussion. Alan has mentioned it to me. So just because people want to reach out and help you, they aren’t seeing you as a small or weak; they just want to help take some of the pain away.” She then slowly glances up at him, her eyes glassed over.

“I just wish the pain would go away entirely. I wish I wouldn’t feel it. I wish I didn’t remember what happened. I wish I didn’t see the images. I don’t want to remember, Chase!” Chase pulls her close to him, allowing her to bury her head into his shoulder as the tears come to the surface.

“It’s going to be okay. We’re going to get through this together, one step at a time. I’m not letting you go or giving up on you. I love you.” He takes his own deep breath, fighting against his own emotions showing through.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 245: “Copy, Right on Time.”

Sunday, May 5 – Dover International Speedway

Chase lets out a sigh as he sat on the couch. Since the appearance from the officer, he couldn’t find any way to distract himself. His mind kept running the scenarios over and over, debating which way things would go. Sarina tried to distract him with Abigail, followed by a game – but that didn’t work.

It also didn’t help that they hadn’t heard anything lately from NASCAR in regards to whether they’d be racing today or tomorrow. He had gone through the motions of driver introductions at 2:30 pm, but wasn’t confident in anything moving forward with the wet weather persisting.

As Chase glanced out the window, his phone buzzed. He picked it up, prepared to carelessly discard the message, though looked at it surprised.

“Are they serious?” He questions, catching Sarina’s attention. By the tone of his voice, she thought it was in relation to the court scenario. “NASCAR wants all the drivers in their cars, ready to go for 4 o’ clock.”

“Guess that means you better get ready,” Sarina comments as he lets out a sigh. He then brings up the radar, glancing over it once again as he had done every half hour through the day already.

“Yeah, I am going to get ready and then we’re going to be back sitting around once again.” He then turns the phone so she can see what he was looking at, which was a big green blob headed their direction. “You might as well stay here snuggled up with Abigail nice and warm.”

“You don’t have much faith there sweetheart….” He then tosses his phone back as he stands up.

“I’m just being honest.” He then heads into the bedsroom of the motorcoach, grabbing his firesuit out of the closet.

As specified by NASCAR, Chase was in the car and buckled ready to go at 4pm as specified. Rolling off pit road, he still didn’t have much hope that they’d be getting far. That’s why if the green flag flew, he was going to make sure his grip was tight on the wheel knowing it’d be slippery as soon as the incoming rain did hit.

“Rain is about 10 minutes out,” Alan reports over the radio as Chase rolls up on the speedway. “It’s right on top of us.”

That just added to Chase’s confusion in why NASCAR was having them out doing pace laps as he knew that wasn’t any small sprinkle that was coming, either. He began going through the motions of warming up the tires, while keeping himself aware with worries about moisture still in track. He followed the instructions of doubling up, not believing that NASCAR would be dropping the green flag in about two more caution laps.

Then, as expected, droplets began to form across the windshield, growing bigger and more consistent with each one that fell.

“Big drops,” he simply reports back, hoping that NASCAR was monitoring radio traffic as it’d be insane to drop the green flag right now.

“Copy, right on time,” Alan replies back, monitoring NASCAR’s official radio traffic to make sure they heard the complaints from the drivers.

“They’re bringing you down pit road next time by,”  Eddie reports from the spotter’s stand as he begins to make his way off of the roof out of the rain himself. “We’re done boys. See you tomorrow.”

Sunday, May 5 – Phoenix, Arizona

Chase follows the instructions as he allows the officer to lead him through the hallways towards the court room. Once the race was called, he didn’t even have a chance to change out of his firesuit before the officer had met up with him to escort him as scheduled.

Although the flight was only four hours, it seemed a lot longer without proper discussion to be had – on top of being uncomfortable. Then once landing in Arizona, it was a short drive over to the court house – but felt like an eternity with the officer insisting on handcuffs.

“Are the handcuffs really necessary?” Alycia comments as she watches Chase walk into the court room.

“It’s procedure ma’am,” the officer states, before taking them off.

“Finally,” Chase says as he stretches his arms out a bit, undoing the zipper on the firesuit a little.

“You should’ve told me that they didn’t allow you to change,” Alycia starts as he sits down beside her. “I would’ve brought you a change of clothes or somet-”

“I just want to get this over with, okay?” She nods her head in agreement as she lays down a couple files before them.

“When they ask you about the charges, you are going to plead guilty because you, indeed, did not follow those terms as specified. However, the argument is going  to be that it was not due to your own fault and therefore you are not deemed guilty. Once that is in place, I am going to bring forth the additional charges for each of them – including Carter’s trusty lawyer. Once that is stated, I am going to request all charges be dropped against you. Then we’ll see what happens next – but my main objective is getting you in and out today.” Chase nods his head, accepting. He didn’t like the thought of pleading guilty once again, but what other choice did he have?

Chase hears the door open, watching as Carter walks in along with Damien, Alison, and their lawyer. He takes a couple deep breathes, focusing his eyes on the floor. He couldn’t deal with the thought of Carter as every single inch of him  just wanted to rip the guy apart. He couldn’t stand the thought of Alison with everything that he’d been through at her hands.

He could only hope that everything was handled and dealt with soon, via the plan that Alycia was putting together.

“All rise!” The baliff states, as everyone stands up in the court room just like weeks prior. “Presenting the Honorable Judge Jackson Pruitt.” Jackson once again walks out of the doors and up to stand, taking his seat, as he had done before as well.

“We will begin with the series of documents that have landed on my desk with additional charges for individuals involved,” Judge Jackson Pruitt begins. “These charges have been filed courtesy of the state of Arizona through district attorney Kyle Gates, as well as additional charges in connection to this case from other states through motions filed by Ms. Alycia Burrows. Ms. Burrows, do you have the documents from the state of Delaware and state of Georgia to support these filings?”

“Yes sir,” Alycia states as she holds up the documents in her hand. The baliff takes them from her, taking them up to the judge accordingly.

“Mr. Chase Elliott, we will begin with your additional charges courtesy of the state.” Chase takes a deep breath, standing up as he tries to keep his eyes focused on the judge solely. “The state alleges that you broke the terms of your bail in regards to your previous charges by not wearing the ankle monitor for the past two weeks as required. Are they correct in this stance?”

“Yes sir,” Chase replies as there was no way around that. It had been a lot more comfortable at least.

“By breaking the terms of your bail, you give up any allowance to have bail on future charges and will be in a jail cell until the completion of the trial.” Chase glances down, letting out a sigh. He knew that was coming and it wasn’t a pretty thought. However, he remembered what Alycia stated earlier. He just had to trust in the process, somehow. “You also failed to have the psychological evaluation done as requested. Are you aware that is carries an obstruction of justice charge?”

“Yes sir I am aware of the reprecautions. However, I attended the facility on Monday as requested by the courts fully ready to comply with the standards. Well within the facility awaiting for my appointment, I was attacked and drugged, which resulted in being taken to the local hospital for treatment. I was ready to state that once returning to the courts to determine the next step moving forward.” Alycia smiles as certainly having him in her corner ready to explain the situation helped in situations like these.

“The defense is prepared to present documents as provided by the Delaware Psychiatric Centre, Delaware State Police, Delaware State Hospital, and Northeast Georgia Medical Center that prove the scenario as described by my client,” Alycia adds as Chase takes a deep breath. He honestly didn’t want to look back over those and experience reminders as to what happened.

“May I please see those documents?” Judge Jackson Pruitt requests, as Alycia gathers them out of the file, holding them out. The baliff takes them up to the judge, just like he had done before with the other documents. “The Delaware Psychatric Center’s document is proof of Mr. Elliott’s appearance and the happenings. Therefore, the charge of obstruction of justice is dismissed. The evaluation will still need to be completed, and that will be arranged between you and the courts.”

“Yes sir,” Chase simply replies, remembering to just follow the due process no matter how uncomfortable it seemed. There was nothing that felt right in pleading guilty and hearing you were stuck in a cell due to having presumably broke your bail.

“Until that is completed followed by being heard in court, you are to remain in the court’s custody on the charge of assault against Carter Williams. You may be seated.” Chase takes a his seat, actually smiling to himself. It still felt nice to know that he got a couple shots in at Carter through everything; he just wished that he had done more to make it worth it. “Mr. Carter Williams, the state alleges that you broke bail by making an appearance in the victim’s home. Is that true?”

“Yes sir,” Carter Williams states as Chase keeps his eyes forward. He almost glanced over at Carter, but was sticking to his guns of avoidance for now.

“In addition to the current charges you are facing, the state of Georgia has charged you with breaking and entering a residence. How do you plead?” Sarina’s eyes focus on the ground, as she tries to chase any flashback that she was having out of her mind. However, she still hated the thought of how easy he was able to enter the house.

“Not guilty.” Chase shakes his head in disgust, knowing that pleads of that nature would bring more testimony and evidence discussion, meaning that they weren’t anywhere close to this being over.

“Additionally, the state of Georgia is charging you with the rape with Sarina Elliott. How do you plead?” Sarina takes a deep breath, feeling a couple tears roll down her cheeks, as she feels her hands clutched tighter on either side of her by both Bill and Christopher.

“Not guilty.” Chase wasn’t surprised by the plea, as he knew it was just a way to make the torture continue. Carter wanted Sarina to have to testify and face what happened, just like Alison had done with him. If they couldn’t get to them physically, they’d do so mentally.

“On the charge of conspiracy in relation to the attack against Mr. Chase Elliott and Mrs. Sarina Elliott, how do you plead?” Alycia looks over at Chase with a smile and nod, as everything was beginning to show through in her plan.

“Not guilty.” Chase still didn’t know if he believed in her process, but he was glad that Alycia was addressing every angle.

“You are to remain in court custody through the remainder of the trial. On top of the charges from North Carolina of breaking & entering along with rape, there are also outstanding charges in this case – attempted murder and harassment of Mr. Chase Elliott, sexual assault of Mrs. Sarina Elliott, harassment and coercing Laiken Baumgartner, breaking and entering, as well as another charge of harassment and sexual assault of Laiken Baumgartner.”

“There’s no way I can do this…” Sarina lets out quietly, tears fully running down her cheeks. “I can’t testify. I can’t do this…” Christopher looks over at her, nodding his head understandingly.

“Don’t worry – Alycia won’t make you do something that you’re not comfortable doing,” Christopher assures her, having built trust via the work that he’d seen her do to this point.

“I can’t do this…” Sarina then gets up leaving the room, with Christopher and Samantha closely following behind her. The pair follow her into the immediate washroom, where she immediately leans over the garbage, bringing up everything in her system.

“Breathe, you’re okay…..” Christopher rubs her back, holding her hair back, as Samantha goes over to the sink to wet a piece of paper towel.

In the court room, the eyes were focused on Alison Reynolds as it was time for her to hear the latest additions to her rap sheet.

“The state of Arizona has charged you with the drugging of Mr. Chase Elliott,” Judge Jackson Pruitt states. “How do you plead?” Alison looks over at Chase, with a smile on her face.

“Guilty as I wanted to loosen him up some,” Alison confesses as Chase takes a deep breath. He couldn’t say thank you enough for the fact that his dad got there just in time.

“The state of Arizona has charged you with the attempted sexual assault of Mr. Chase Elliott. How do you plead?” Alison chuckles as she keeps her eyes focused on him.

“Guilty as you could say that I am attracted to him and I want him every day of my life. I just wish he’d give into his desires and return the desire. After all, he was ready for me to have his baby.” Chase had to laugh himself now at the thought, remembering the discussion about the child.

“You were never pregnant with my child,” he states firmly as he keeps his eyes locked forward. if there as anything that got under his skin with Alison, that was the matter right there.

“On the charge of conspiracy in relation to the attack against Mr. Chase Elliott and Mrs. Sarina Elliott, how do you plead?” Judge Jackson Pruitt asks, getting the case back on-track.

“Guilty because I will do whatever it takes to see my boy. I’m just glad that Damien Krane was so willing to help.” Chase had to chuckle and hand it to Alycia as it seemed everything was writing itself perfectly.

“With the guilty charges, you will be transported back to the Delaware Psychiatric Facil-”

“I’d like to file a motion to have Alison Reynolds moved out of that facility to the facility located here in Arizona,” Alycia interrupts. “The Delaware center has shown their lack of competence by allowing those events to take place against my client while he was there. They also showed they could not handle Ms. Reynolds when she was able to escape. For the public’s safety, it’d be in the best interest to not use that facility moving forward.”

“Motion accepted,” Jackson Pruitt agrees, bringing another round of smiles from Chase and Alycia. The next part of her plan was completed accordingly. “Mr. Damien Krane, on the charge of stealing drugs in the state of Delaware how do you plead?”

“Not guilty,” Damien Krane states, which didn’t surprise Alycia. He actually had rights within the facility due to being part of the staff. However, it allowed the next question to be asked.

“On the charge of conspiracy in relation to the attack against Mr. Chase Elliott and Mrs. Sarina Elliott, how do you plead?” Damien looks over at Alycia surprised, which just earns him a smirk back in return from her.

“Not guilty.” Alycia shakes her head no as she knew the videos would immediately disprove the events.

“You will be held in the court custody due to previous connections to the case.” Alycia then looks down at Nellie Martin as Jackson Pruitt shuffles through the papers. “Ms. Martin, on the charge of conspiracy in relation to the attack against Mr. Chase Elliott and Mrs. Sarina Elliott, how do you plead?”

“Is this really happening?” Nellie Martin questions, earning a nod from Alycia. “You can’t be serious! How is this humanly possible?”

“You insisted that my client go to the Delaware facility where Alison was being held, therefore beginning the chain of events,” Alycia explains the theory that she had developed after conversation with Bill. “Considering the chain of events that occurred, it makes me believe that you were working with your clients to my clients in danger.”

“Not guilty is the obvious answer!” Alycia had expected that answer, but she’d done her duty. She connected the dots in front of the court, especially for the jury and the judge. Furthermore, it wouldn’t take long to prove everything together given the chain of evidence they’d built already.

“With those charges being filed, I would like to request that Nellie Martin be reviewed  by the law ethics committee and have license to practice law removed. Furthermore, I would like to have it suspended until the end of her tria-”

“Seriously?!?” Alycia looks over at her with a smirk, before turning her eyes back to the judge.

“It is protocol per previous trials and situations, so therefore it should be followed.” Alycia didn’t even need to look over at Nellie to know that she was steaming from stealing one of her own lines.

“Your honor, this is a tactic being used by the defense due to being scared of their own case, as well as the case presented against my clients. She’s just trying to screw me over.” Alycia chuckles as she looks over at Nellie.

“Isn’t that the same way that you screwed my client over by insisting on district attorney Kyle Gates filing the charges against him, along with insisting on the location to bring forth more travel demands? I also heard that you were the individual that filed the motions for why my client had to be arrested and appear today.”  Chase looks over, actually surprised by how strong the comments were coming across from Alycia right now. Maybe she did have something when it came to putting this plan together.

“Order in the court!” Judge Jackson Pruitt lets out, quieting both lawyers down immediately as they turn to face him. “Ms. Martin, your license is hereby suspended moving forward as a result of the charges of conspiracy being levied against you – with one stipulation. You may finish this trial out for your clients Mr. Carter Williams, Mr. Damien Krane, and Ms. Alison Reynolds – but you are not to serve any other clients during this time until your license is fully reinstated. However, if you are found guilty of conspiracy, then indeed your license would be revoked by the law ethics committee. Are we in understanding, ma’am?”

“Yes sir,” Nellie Martin states as Alycia smiles. Now came the grand slam to finish the day.

“With the new evidence brought forth, I would like to file a motion for the charges to be dropped against my client Mr. Chase Elliott,” Alycia reveals. “The ensuing events and connections across the board reveal that my client was doing what he needed to in order to protect himself and his family. He showed belief in the justice system by calling for the appropriate help that day, but was let down with another trail of events being put together. It’s only fair that the situation is made fair by dropping the charges.”

“And here she goes looking for special treatment once again….” Alycia just rolls her eyes, but she was worried that the judge would have the same view. This was a big gamble, but it’d be the only way to keep him from spending a single night in jail. If the charges continued, he’d be held there for at least a couple days until the evaluation was drawn up.

“Motion accepted,” Judge Jackson Pruitt offers his approval, as Alycia looks over at Chase, the pair trading a smile back and forth. “We will reconvene at another date to begin hearing testimony against the new charges. That means for the jury, you will be suspending the delivery of the verdict until the new additions are sorted out as well. Court adjourned!”

“Thank you…” Chase says as he stands up, offering a hug to Alycia. “I appreciate everything that you’ve don-”

“I’m not done yet, either, as I am going to stick with this until they’re all locked up for good,” Alycia confirms. “Kyle Gates and I have plans to work on this the rest of the way together.”

Chase then heads out of the court room, making his way down the hall as he sees Sarina sitting on the bench between Christopher and Samantha. He walks over, kneeling before her.

“I thought you were supposed to remain in the court’s custo-” Christopher starts, recalling the judge’s words to him.

“Alycia got the charges against me dropped completely,” Chase reveals, bringing forth three shocked faces before him. “I don’t have to worry about it anymore ever again.”

“I wanted to be there for you, but I couldn’t sit there any longer….” Sarina quietly states, catching his attention.

“It’s okay, I understand,” Chase replies as he clutches her hand with his own. “I know what it feels like and how it tears you apart. I appreciate the effort that you made today, but trust me – you don’t need to do this.”

“But I need to testi-”

“Alycia won’t make you testify if you cannot do it. We have video proof of the confrontation between me and Damien which states Carter’s intentions. They have the rape kit and evidence of him breaking and entering the house via the security video.” She nods her head, accepting, knowing that was a comforting feeling.

“I want to be there for you. I want to be there to comfort you….” Chase appreciated that, and wanted that for his own selfish benefit, but he wasn’t about to force her.

“I’m going to be okay. I can handle Carter as I did before. I can handle Damien as he isn’t going to swim past me any day. Alison, I’m still dealing with her and so thankful that she didn’t get any further than she did….” He begins to bite his tongue immediately, knowing that Sarina wasn’t as fortunate as he was that day. “You’re going to be okay; I’m going to be okay. We’re going to get through this together, one day at a time. but for the days that you cannot be there, I have my dad, my mom, Alan – I will be okay.” He then leans in, lightly kissing her forehead. “I love you, forever and always.”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 244: Allied Steel Buildings 200

Saturday, May 4 – Dover International Speedway

“Is it still raining?” Sarina questions as she glances out the window with a sigh.

“Nope, and I heard the jet dryers start up,” Chase answers as she looks over at him sitting at the table with the laptop. She then sits down beside him, glancing over at the screen.

“Are you really going through those photos, again?” Chase smiles as he scrolls through the gallery of photos they took of Abigail last month, along with the family images thrown in.

“I still can’t decide what photos we should print, and what size. There’s too many good ones. But I want to get some done because it’d be nice to have up in the house.” Sarina nods her head in agreement, knowing they’d also be nice in the motorcoach for the weeks that they will be apart this year, too. She takes a deep breath, not even wanting to think about that thought at this very moment. “Besides, it’s much better to look at than think about rain and lack of practice.”

“You guys have a fast car, and you know how to run well here. I don’t think missing a single practice is going to be that hurtful.” Chase gives her a glance as she keeps her eyes locked on his. “I’m serious, Chase.”

“I just don’t want to be overconfident and I want to make sure that we can get the most out of the car possible. It’s one thing to be fast on Friday, but it’s another totally different thing on Sunday. What if we suck on the long run?” She then simply shrugs her shoulders.

“Last race restarts still be the name of the game lat-”

“But what if?” She then lets out a sigh as she picks up her phone off of the table.

“You need to stop overworrying.” He shakes his head no as he grabs his phone.

“I’m not overworrying as I believe in Alan and this team. I’m just thinking about the scenarios, and wanting to make sure we’re the best that we can be. It’s all about striving for the best, right?” She nods her head in agreement.

“Xfinity Series qualifying is still on as scheduled…..” She then stands up and walks to the back, grabbing her firesuit out of the closet.

Chase, meanwhile, focuses his thoughts on the text messages to Alan about how they were going to approach practice in knowing they only had an hour, versus the original two hours.

“Nice solid effort,” Dave comments, giving her a high-five.

“I think we’ll be fine today,” she replies back as she glances over the starting grid. “Like I said yesterday, I am comfortable with the car over the long run and we have speed. We just need to be there when it matters at the end.”

“I like your theory….” She then goes to walk away, causing him to look at her surprised. “We have the driver’s mee-”

“I need to go get my daughter from Chase so he can practice.” He was ready to say something, but bit his tongue instead with a nod of the head. “Go on….”

“I would’ve liked to discuss a couple last minute things, as well. However, I have to get used to the fact that you’re a mother and taking care of your daughter is unique compared to say other drivers.” She then crosses her arms.

“Are you saying that you’re going to treat me different before I am a female?” He shakes his head no.

“It’s rather working with your schedule differently than I have in the past with others. I have to continually get used to that, and understand the reasons.” She was ready to snap back in return, but a deep breath to relax herself worked it’s magic for now. Besides, the thought of holding her sweet daughter close also helped.

“If there’s any big issues, don’t hesitate to be honest and tell me as I’ll understand and can work at adjusting my schedule with Chase and Abigail. Just right now, I want to spend as much time as I can with her in-between racing.” Dave nods his head, accepting, having heard everything that she’d been through to get to this point. He could also appreciate a parent that wanted to be involved hands-on with everything.

“Honesty is the best policy, right? You better go get your daughter before the crew plays hot potato. I’ll meet you at the driver’s meeting.” Sarina nods her head back with a smile, before heading off to the Cup garage.

She actually had to chuckle at the times when she was a little late, as it was always a different crew member who was holding her as Chase headed out for the first practice run of the afternoon. It also gave her a special comfort, in knowing that these guys were like family and she could trust their safety and security with them. it never hurt to have a couple extra eyes watching out for you.

While it wasn’t the perfect practice, it also wasn’t the worse practice for Chase. He was able to find comfort in the car, and had decent speed ranked 10^th on the chart at the end of the session.

More importantly, though, as he glanced over the car, he felt confident in their chances for a successful race on Sunday.

“It seems parenthood has taken to both of you naturally,” Alan comments as Chase holds Abigail in his arms. Sarina had dropped her off as she headed out to the grid for driver introductions, with Chase promising to come meet back up with her for opening ceremonies.

“I can’t describe the feeling sometimes,” Chase replies as he looks at Abigail with a smile on his face. “She’s absolutely amazing. I knew I was in love with her from when Sarina and I began to go through the pregnancy, but it just grew even more once I laid eyes on her. Is it just me, or are babies fascinating in the smallest things that they do?” Alan chuckles, remembering when the boys were smaller.

“Shannon and I were the same way. It’s like nobody exists in the room at times.” Chase nods his head in agreement, having lost track of the amount of times he got lost in simply staring at her.

“I remember when she first gripped my finger. I didn’t want her to let go as it felt perfect. Then there’s the giggles; she’s got the cutest laugh.” Alan nods his head, having heard it a couple times when over at the house.

“Just wait until she mutters the word ‘Dada’ for the first time….” Chase smiles, as he actually couldn’t wait until they got to that point.

“She’s beginning to mutter some words at times….” Alan debated whether now was the right time to ask the question, or to the avoid the topic, but curiousity got the best of the crew chief.

“So I remember you both being so afraid of parenthood and a pregnancy, and yet now you’re both totally in love with Abigail and handling everything like champs. Does that mean that you’re going to expand the family one day?” Chase takes a deep breath, knowing that was certainly a topic they’d be facing moving forward. plenty of others had already brought it up in knowing Sarina had some eggs frozen.

“We’ve talked about our options, and we’ve certainly left the door open with freezing some eggs. Now whether that happens one day or not, I don’t know…” Chase glances at his daughter. “I just want to focus on giving her the best life that I can right now.”

“I’d say that you’re doing a good jo-”

“But what about Carter? What about Alison? There’s still so much to take care of, Alan, and some days I don’t know if we’re going to get there. I keep thinking about what Sarina went through, and the pain she felt. I keep thinking about Alison, and every emotion. I was ready to move forward – but I can’t get that out of my mind. I still have to go back to court and face them one more time. I don’t even know if I can do that.” Alan places a hand on Chase’s shoulder.

“I know that you can do that because you’ve done it before. I know that you can do that because you are strong, and you will do whatever it takes for your girls. As we’ve always discussed – one day at a time, you’ll get through this.” Chase nods his head, hoping the crew chief was right in his comments.

Starting inside of the top-10, Sarina was able to run up front all day, keeping herself in contention for another strong finish. However, it wasn’t meant to be…

“Coming to you guys,” she radioed at the start of the third stage. “Loose wheel.”

As a result of the unscheduled trip down pit road, she’d fall a lap down, unable to make it back up by the checkered flag, crossing the line with a 19^th-place finish.

“We had speed,” Dave comments as he walks over, handing her a bottle of water. “We showed that we can run up front. We’ll get them next week.” Sarina slowly nods her head as she takes a long sip of the cold water.

“We can’t keep doing this every week, though,” Sarina replies. “We know that we can run up there – that’s what JRM is known for. However, we got to turn these decent runs into good runs, and start making ground.”

“Patience rookie, we’ll be fine…” She could only roll her eyes, knowing this was going to get old fast if this kept happening.

Sunday, May 5 – Dover International Speedway

Sarina walks into the bedsroom, stopping dead in her tracks as she looks at Chase laying on the bed with Abigail beside him on her stomach.

“Aren’t you supposed to be getting changed?” She questions and he shakes his head no. “It’s race day. You cannot go racing in that outfit, mister.”

“I’d be super comfortable,” he reasons as she just rolls her eyes. “Besides, it’s going to rain all day. There’s no point in putting my firesuit on to just have to take it off when they call it.”

“But at least you’d be ready for when they call you out to the car….” He shakes his head no as she follows suit, laying on the bed with them. “What? Are you superstitious now?”

“I’m not one of those who believe once you put the firesuit on you have to leave it on until you race. If that was the case, there’s a couple Snowballs I would’ve been very uncomfortable.” She chuckles, remembering a couple of those weekends in watching the Snowball Derby being postponed due to weather.

“Do you remember the year when they dropped the green flag at like midnight?” Chase nods his head, still remembering the shock when Ricky told him to get ready that night.

“We had kept putting off getting food due to not wanting to be eating dinner and get the call to go racing. We finally gave in to temptation, ordering a whole bunch of stuff for the guys. We never got to eat any of it because the call came five minutes after the food arrived.” She shakes her head in disbelief, though could only chuckle at those memories. “I don’t care if it rains all day, anyway….”

“Awww, is daddy loving his time with Abigail?” He smiles as he watches her stretch her arms and legs out.

“She almost rolled over earlier. I thought she was ready to finally do it, and then just flopped.” Sarina shakes her head in disbelief as she watches her.

“It’s crazy, Chase. It’s like she was just born yesterday to me, but she’s going to be rolling over, then crawling, and then walking. Our daughter is growing up…” Chase nods his head in agreement.

“Don’t worry – she’s still got a long time before she moves out.” Sarina looks over with a bit of horror. “And I mean a really long time. She can go to college and stay at home.”

They then hear a knock at the door, with them glancing at each other confused. Fox had already been by for an interview. Who could be there now?

Chase gets up off of the bed, making his way to the front and opening the door with an instant wave of confusion.

“May I help you?” He questions the officer standing before him, who holds an envelope in his hand.

“Are you William Clyde Elliott?” The officer asks and Chase slowly nods his head. He had been through enough court dealings that he’d given up on trying to tell him that he went by Chase and not his full name. “I have a package for you from the state of Arizona.”

“Okay, thank you…” Chase takes the envelope from the officer, glancing over with a whole lot of confusion over his face.

“Inside of that envelope is an arrest warrant in your name.” His confusion grew even more, with a look of horror mixed in.

“Arrest warrant? I haven’t done anything wrong.” He then opens the envelope, slipping out the piece of paper that was inside. “Sarina!!” Sarina then walks out of the bedsroom with Abigail in her arms. “Call Alycia right away and send her a screenshot of this.”

“Arrest warrant?” She questions as she takes the piece of paper from him, looking it over with confusion. “Serio-”

“Please just do what I said,” Chase instructs and Sarina nods her head as she takes it over to the kitchen table. “So what happens now, officer?”

“Did you read the full document?” The officer questions and Chase nods his head. “You’re aware of the three reasons as to why the warrant was issued?” Chase nods his head once again, half-listening to what Sarina was doing at the same time. “For the sake of discussion, I do need to sta-”

“Just tell me what happens next, please…” The officer takes a deep breath as he pulls out his own copy.

“I have to follow protocol and state the charges, before we proceed.” Chase lets out a sigh, as Sarina feverously sends the message to Alycia, followed by one to Bill and one to Alan as well. “For starters, you are currently out on bail in relation to other charges in the state. Per the courts, you broke that bail by not wearing an ankle monitor for the past couple weeks.” Chase was aware of that, but hadn’t given it a thought in the midst of the chaos that happened with Alison and Damien. “You also failed to have the psychological evaluation done, which could be seen as obstruction to jus-”

“Is it also included in those documents that I attended a facility in this state for that matter and was awaiting my evaluation when the staff allowed a convicted sexual predator to drug me with the help of a guard who was also out on bail?”

“Sir, with all due respect, I only have the copies to the one document as handed to me to issue to you.” Chase shakes his head in disbelief. Was this really happening?

“With an arrest warrant, I am supposed to bring you in to our local police station, to where you will be transferred to Arizona’s custody for further handling.”

“Unbelievable,” Sarina comments, having overheard the whole discussion.

“Failure to comply could result in other legal precautions, as well as legal force if necessary,” the officer continues as Chase hears his phone ring.

“This is unbelievable,” he replies as he takes his phone out of his comment. “Alyci-”

“A copy of the document was also forwarded to my office from the courts,” she cuts him off immediately. “No doubt it’s another stunt by them to try and push their boundaries, while knowing the case that we have against them after what happened.”

“I’m getting sick and tired of them getting away with this. So do I have to go with the officer?” Sarina bit her tongue as she glanced out the doorway, seeing the rain had stopped. This wasn’t going to work into their favor.

“Put me on speaker phone, Chase.” Chase does as instructed, holding her phone in-between himself and the officer. “Officer Ron Reynolds, I appreciate the visit in which you’re paying my client. I understand that you’re fulfilling your duty for the Delaware State in carrying out an arrest warrant. I would have you know that my office has been in contact with the Arizona State Courts, as well as your office. As of right now, the arrest warrant is to not be carried out against my client until following the event today at the speedway. You should be getting a message from your superior shortly as I just got the district attorney’s office to agree in Arizona. Following the completion of the event, my client will make the trip to Arizona as specified. If the race is rained out today, he will make the trip out following the cancelation. Does everybody hear me loud and clear?”

“Yes ma’am,” the officer states as his phone goes off with a message from the office stating the words delivered by Alycia.

“If the race is cancelled, will you have me back to Dover for tomorrow?” Chase questions. Although he was willing to do whatever it took to make sure this got handled fully and comply with any law matters, a line needed to be drawn in the sand.

“I can promise you that I have this handled already, Chase,” Alycia answers clearly. “I’m filing the paperwork. As soon as you land, this is going to go through the courts quickly.”

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 243: A Monster Pole

Friday, May 3 – Dover International Speedway

Chase leans back against the pit box, satisfied with a smile on his face. He and Miles could continue their friendship as he was solid through the first practice, posting the ninth quickest lap. More importantly, the handling of the No. 9 Chevrolet felt comfortable – which was always a plus.

That didn’t mean he was going to stop working on trying to get better, grabbing the Ipad off of the pit box as he began to review the data. He loaded the throttle and brake trace for himself, along with his teammate William Byron who was quicker. That then proceeded to loading the data for the Chip Ganassi Racing teammates, seeing as they were 1-2. He was glad that Tom Gray had also loaded a couple laps of Kyle Larson from practice so Chase could compare and contrast the line that he was running,

“Considering you’re in the playoffs locked in, I thought you’d be kicking back this weekend,” he hears, catching him by surprise as he glances up immediately. He knew not to take chances of other people seeing the data that he had to look at.

“I thought you would’ve learned last year the importance of playoff races,” Chase replies with a smile seeing that it was Ryan who had walked over. Though while eyes focused on his friend, he turned off the video, putting the Ipad back.

“I say that’s an excuse and cover-up. I bet you were watching some fun video on there, hence why you shut it off so I wouldn’t catch on to what you’re doing.” Chase laughs, shaking his head no.

“Nah man, I’m just trying to figure out how to catch your ass.” Ryan smirks back in response, having timed in fifth quickest through the session. “What brings you my way, anyway?”

“Well, you do realize that I am currently in the process of planning my wedding.” Chase nods his head, remembering the discussion Lindsay and Sarina had on Tuesday.

“I heard from Lindsay that she’s got her ladies together – your sisters, Sarina, and one of her dance buddies. She was also happy that they’ll all be able to attend.” That was something that caused Ryan to smile as well, along with a bit more as they weren’t the only confirmed attendees.

“I also heard that a special flower girl, and ring barrier will be there.” Chase couldn’t help but smile as he’d knew it’d be cute for the Blaney family in having Evelyn and Louie as part of the wedding. “That just leaves a couple missing pieces. I already asked Cale and Jeremy to be part of the wedding. But it doesn’t mean as much to me as someone else does. I’m here to return the favor. Will you be my best man?”

“Seriously?” Ryan nods his head as Chase walks over, wrapping an arm around Ryan’s shoulders. “You don’t need to ask twice. Of course I’d be your best man. I’d be honored to be your best man.”

“Oh, and the missing groomsmen is obviously Darrell. I asked him last night if he’d be able to be one of my groomsmen. His response was shock in not being my best man.” Chase chuckles, almost having said that initially himself.

“I actually told Sarina that I thought you’d ask Darrell before you’d ask me.” Ryan lets out a sigh, as he had thought about that. It was why he had taken his time before asking them because he wanted to be sure.

“In addition to the fact that it’s returning the favor for your weddi-”

“You don’t need to feel oblige-”

“I’m not, but we’ve also known each longer. We spent our late model days together, on-and-off. You were one of my first at the track friends that I could race hard as nails on-track, but have the best fun off together. We’ve also traveled together, and shared a lot of first experiences together. Heck, we’re marrying cousins here. It just seemed right after everything that we’ve been through.” Chase smiles back in response, knowing there’d certainly been some great times through the years. It also reminded him that there’d been some tough times, too.

“I appreciate you always being here for me, so I look forward to returning the favor to make sure that your wedding goes off perfectly.”

“I don’t doubt that.”

Sarina glances up at the speed chart, seeing that she ranked 10^th quickest at the end of the first practice session. It gave her confidence in knowing that the car was handling as it was supposed to.

Beyond that, she was able to find some comfort with the Monster that she felt she was missing with other races to date thus far this season. Whether it was knowledge of the track, confidence from running well in the past, or starting to get used to the Xfinity cars, she wasn’t going to complain.

“I have some suggestions from Jason (Burdett) and Taylor (Moyer) to try for the second session,” Dave Elenz catches her attention as they sit in the JR Motorsports trailer lounge together. She was glad that she had his company, still not perfectly ready to spend much time alone yet.

“In past weekends, to be honest, Justin’s set-up has been more comfortable then what Taylor has been doing, whether for Zane or Ryan,” she comments, earning a nod of approval from the crew chief. She appreciated the ability to work close with her teammates, get ideas, and learn things from their experience. Another glance at the speed chart and she knew that’d be critical considering she was the slowest of the four JR Motorsports cars.

“We’ve got an hour. So I think we should start with Justin’s set-up, and then you can let me know whether you like ours or Justin’s better. Then we can try and tweak to further improve upon it before making a quick qualifying run to close out the session.” Sarina was game for the practice plan, feeling it was a good balance ahead of tomorrow.

“I’m just glad that we got the session in after everybody talked about the possibility of rain all weekend. The forecast for Sunday still looks ugly….” Dave couldn’t help but agree with his driver, having took a quick glance. However, he wasn’t about to concern himself with that for too long, knowing the focus was on tomorrow for them.

“Are the speeds approaching a danger zone?” They hear on the monitor, causing them both to glance up. Sarina had turned on the video feed from the Cup driver media availability, curious as normal to hear what Chase had to say. “Do you agree?”

“You’re paid to go fast, so let’s go fast,” Chase replies, earning a small chuckle from Sarina. She knew what the discussion was in reference to – with earlier comments from others saying the Cup cars had a high rate of speed through the corner, possibly creating an issue. She knew what it was like to hit the wall hard at Dover – ala last year while battling Johnny Sauter for the win in the truck race herself. However, she couldn’t see herself echoing the same concerns that were being expressed. “It’s not fun hitting something real bad anytime you do, and certainly isn’t going to feel good when you do it at these speeds. Definitely it’s physical for sure, and I think this is going to be a very physical race on Sunday, especially if the sun comes out and it’s hot. It’s fast. Is it too fast? Like I said, this is our job, what we sign up for, and I think it is what it is.”

“Typical political Chase….” She comments to herself, with another chuckle in reference to his closing comments. Just like he had done in previous discussions about the package, there was no point in leading discussion further since they couldn’t change things it seemed when NASCAR stuck in their ways.

“Can I have the inside scoop true opinion on your husband’s take on this package?” Dave questions, having overheard the comments while working through his notes.

“I’m sorry, but that’s classified information.” Dave then lets out a sigh as he focuses back on his notes. “But really, let’s be honest here. You struggle to make passes in traffic. Is that really what this package was supposed to do? As Christopher referenced, these Xfinity Series cars are a lot of fun to drive – maybe more fun than the current Cup package.”

“So if a car owner came to you and offered you a ride in the Cup Series, would you turn it down?” Sarina lets out a sigh as she carefully considers the option.

“At this present time, I would have to say yes – and not because of the package. I don’t feel that I am ready yet to go up against the best of the best on Sundays and be competitive. I still feel that I need to grow as a driver in a couple different departments and gain experience. I’d rather do that correctly than move up too soon and fuck up.” Dave stops what he was typing, looking over at Sarina sitting on the couch with Abigail in her arms, feeding her.

“That’s a very smart, mature approach. I like your attitude….”

Sarina walks out to pit road, seeing where Chase was standing on the sidelines with Abigail in his arms. She makes her way down, smiling as she walks upon the pair together.

“Now this sweetheart, is traditional proper qualifying,” she listens as he talks to Abigail. “This is the way grandpa always qualified. This is the way the format should have stayed. This is where it matters most. You better just hope that daddy gets up on the wheel and does his job.”

“I’m sure you will do that,” she comments, catching his attention. He could only smile, leaning in for a quick kiss, while not giving up on holding Abigail.

“You could’ve stayed and debriefed with Dave longer. I am one of the last cars to go.” She shakes her head no, easily accepting her daughter from his arms. The adjustments they chose to make paid off as she was able to find additional comfort and speed, ending the second session ranked seventh on the chart. “Well aren’t we Ms. Confidence for tomorrow.”

“I know we’ve talked about it other weeks, but this is really the most comfortable practice that I’ve had thus far this year at any track with Dave. Everything just went right the final practice. I know we’re not quickest, but I feel that we have a car capable of being up front all race long tomorrow.” Chase smiles, as he wouldn’t mind a second week in victory lane with Abigail. It’d also be nice to take home a pair of Golden Monsters to go with Miles at home.

“You just want to give Miles a friend…” She nods her head, catching the reference immediately. “Let’s hope that Alan and I did the right thing following practice to make it better.”

“Do you think that you can beat William?” Chase wanted to say yes as he felt comfort in the No. 9 Chevrolet. However, he had to admit that his teammate was adapting quickly and showing a lot of speed.

“We may have something up our sleeve as you know Alan pulls out the best stops when it matters.” He then leans in for another quick kiss before making his way out to pit road, joining Alan and the guys as they pushed the car down the line.

Although there was fun conversation amongst the group, with a couple laughs, his eyes kept glancing over towards pit road. He smiled each time he caught a glimpse of Sarina standing there with Abigail in her arms, watching her cuddle and talk to their little girl. While his conversation with Ryan earlier brought him back through some of the tougher moments they’d experienced, this sight made every bit of it worth it to see all of their dreams coming true one by one.

“I felt like I got a little tight in one and two, and I was afraid that it wasn’t going to be good enough,” Chase tells the reporters. “But the car had a really good three and four. I haven’t seen the data yet so I really don’t know. If I had to guess, it would be that. I could be wrong because when I guess, I usually am wrong. But it was a great lap. I appreciate the effort, and it’s been a great week. Things can go south a lot quicker than they can go good. It’s just a starting spot, but we will try and take advantage of it with that good pit box on Sunday.”

He then walks over to where Alan was standing, giving him a high-five. He then follows through the rest of the crew.

“You were right that you were wrong about the data,” Tom comments as Chase makes his way through the team, causing him to roll his eyes. “You were better than William through the other end, strangely.”

“Chad probably over adjusted a touch as you were both equal the other end,” Alan adds. He then smiles as Chase walks over to where Sarina was standing, giving both her and Abigail a kiss. “Are they the lucky charms now?”

“I’ll take whatever lucky charms I can get,” Chase replies, before heading over to do the series of photos.

Once everything was done, the pair retreated back to the motorcoach, both getting changed out of their firesuits into something much more comfortable. As Sarina slipped her top on, she looked into the mirror with a sigh. Running her hand down her side and along her waist, there were still some faint bruises that remained.

“Are you okay?” Chase questions as he walks up behind her, and she nods her head. He then wraps his arms around, tracing a couple of them with her fingers. “They’re slowly going away.”

“Not fast enough,” she comments as she focuses her eyes down with a sigh. “I just want the reminders to disappear. I want the bruises gone. I want to know that he’s locked up for sure. I don’t’ want to have to face a single thing in relation into it ever again.”

“I know how you feel….” He then bites his lip, thinking back through his experience after things went down with Alison. “But remember, continuing to run and pretend it didn’t happen without any reminders isn’t the right way. Eventually, it comes back to you 10-fold.”

“That’s what everybody keeps telling me – and I know that myself. But just for a day, 24 hours, I wish I didn’t think about it for a second.” Chase runs his fingers up her body, rubbing her shoulders.

“Let me take care of you then. Let me show you a way to forget and not think about it…” She shakes her head immediately, as tears begin to slide down her cheeks.

“Chase, I can’t do that….” He then freezes, knowing where her mind went right away.

“No no, I didn’t mean it like that. I meant – let’s go out to dinner tonight, us with Abigail. Let’s go somewhere for dinner, and then go get desert together.” She then slowly looks up, seeing their reflection in the mirror together.

“You’re not mad at me?” He was confused immediately. “You offer to take care of me, and immediately I turn that offer-”

“Because I know the fear that you’re feeling, and I know that you’ll come to me when you’re comfortable and ready, just like you let me to come to you. The same way that you’ve been patient about what I feel comfortable with and not. I’ve told you this before, but it’s worth repeating – I am willing to do whatever it takes to make you feel better. I love you.” He then kisses her shoulder.

“I love you, too, forever and always…” She then turns around to face him, kissing his lips, before putting her shirt on as originally planned.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 242: A Talladega Celebration

“We were laughing and living, drinking and wishing, and thinking as that checkered flag was waving, sure would like to stay in Talladega.” – Eric Church

#9: Chase Elliott, Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet Camaro Mountain Dew / Little Caesar’s wins

Sunday, April 28 – Talladega Superspeedway

Sarina stands back, as she watches Chase do his interview with NASCAR on FOX, followed by MRN. She stands alongside Chase as they present the trophy, not saying much of anything as of yet. She then takes a couple steps back, letting him go through the series of post-race images that were to be taken for all of the sponsors.

The only reason why she took her eyes off of Chase was when she felt a tongue licking her leg. She glances down, an immediate smile as she recognizes the puppy right away.

“Hey Fletcher,” she tells him, before kneeling down to give him cuddles and rubs as he wanted. He then goes to put his paws up on her shoulders. “Hey now, easy boy…” She only takes her eyes off of Fletcher as she follows the leech to the hand holding it.

“He would not stay in the motorcoach,” Cindy begins having realized that Sarina has her attention. “No matter which way we tried to leave, he would not listen to staying back. As soon as he heard that we were going to see his mommy and daddy in victory lane – as I told Abigail while getting ready, that dog insisted on coming.” Sarina could only sigh as she glances down at the puppy, rubbing his ears once again.

“It’s okay. It’s actually perfect that both Fletcher and Abigail are here, together. We’re a family now. They can experience a first win together.” She remembers not being sure with Chase about getting the puppy at first. However, she gave in remembering the initial smiles on his face as he played with Cindy’s dog Max. It was only a matter of weeks until she was also fully in love with Fletcher too, thanks to those puppy eyes he gave all too well. Besides, he made a good jogging partner and cuddler. “We talked about it from the day she was born – the excitement of being a family together, having moments like these. I admit that I wanted to be the one to give her that first win. But, that doesn’t take anything away from today because it’s special.”

“I’m just glad that I am here for a win for once.” Sarina chuckles as she takes Abigail out of Cindy’s arms, holding her close.

“It is actually your first win, too….” Cindy nods her head, having missed the previous three victories for a couple different reasons. “I’m also glad that you could make the trip, Grandma.”

“You should’ve been giving him victory lane kisses already,” Grandma comments, as Cindy could only sigh. From when Chase and Sarina got together, Grandma was a total fan of them.

“I’ll get my chance, don’t worry,” Sarina replies as she glances into Abigail’s eyes. “Just like you’ll get your chance with Daddy.”

“Fletcher!” Cindy lets out as the dog pulls against the leech, wanting to run over to Chase. “Fletcher!”

“Let him go!” Chase yells back as the scene catches his attention. Cindy gives him a puzzled glance, but follows the instructions. The dog runs over as Chase kneels down to his level. “You’re just excited for daddy.” Fletcher then puts his paws up on Chase’s shoulders, licking his cheek. “Easy boy….”

“How about we get a photo of you and the dog?” One of the photographers suggest, which Chase was all for doing.

“Sit!” Fletcher listens, co-operating for a couple photos to be taken.

“Got it. Alright, what else do you want?”  Chase looks over at the group, motioning for them to come over.

“Go on first….” Sarina instructs, catching both Grandma and Cindy by surprise. “Don’t worry, I’ll get my chance.”

“We both know that he wants you before me,” Cindy whispers as Sarina smiles. She knew that the photo of them together as a family would mean the most today, hence saving it for the end.

“Got it,” the photographer states. “Next photo…” Sarina then walks over with Abigail in hand, as Chase looks over with a smile.

“I’m glad that you saved the best for last,” he replies, kissing her lips.

“Congratulations as you did a spectacular job all day,” she tells him, before getting situated. She kept Abigail in her arms, as Chase wrapped an arm around her. Cindy and Grandma meanwhile stood on the other side, with Cindy holding a firm grasp on Fletcher’s leech.

“Next!” The photographer instructs, as Cindy and Grandma move out of the shot.

“Fletcher!” Chase yells, catching the dog’s attention. Cindy once again lets go of the leech, allowing him to run back over. He then gets the dog to sit before his legs, while keeping his arm wrapped around Sarina.

“Can you believe it?” Sarina questions as she easily gets comfortable in that spot. “Our first proper family photo with the dog and it’s in victory lane.”

“It’s perfect.” He then gives her a kiss on the cheek, as he lets the leech go so Fletcher could run back over to Cindy.

“You’ve probably taken enough pho-”

“I don’t like photos, but I’m not leaving victory lane anytime soon. I could spend the rest of the night here with my girls.” He then easily accepts Abigail from Sarina, holding her tightly in his arms. Sarina then wraps her arm around Chase in return, as they turn to the photographers.

“Victory lane kiss!” Cindy instructs, which the instruction is easily followed by the couple. “There’s the keeper as even Abigail is smiling.”

“She was meant to be a track baby,” Sarina replies as she moves out of the way so Chase could get a couple photos of just him and Abigail. “There’s going to be plenty of these photos printed, framed and hung on the wall.”

“I want copies!” Sarina glances back at Cindy, giving her the thumbs up immediately.

Sunday, April 28 – Dawsonville, Georgia

“I’m breaking my own rule again,” Chase comments as he places the trophy on the dresser, turning it slightly. He then takes a step back, pleased with how it was placed.

“I think it’s fitting that it’s here,” Sarina replies as she looks back at him from the crib. While all trophies were supposed to be either downstairs on a particular shelf, or at the race shop, the Talladega trophy had made it up the stairs. From the moment they landed in Georgia, Chase knew there was only one place that it belonged – in the nursery. “She should remember the first trip that she got to make to victory lane with her parents.”

“And are you still okay with Miles being in here?” Sarina nods her head as she walks over to where the Monster trophy sat on the dresser.

“Like you told her, it’s a reminder that daddy can slay any monster that dares to touch her, or her momma.” Chase lets out a sigh, wishing that was always totally true as his mind still reflected back. “Chase….”

“I still feel terrible for what you went through…” He then takes a deep breath, trying to clear his head. “But let’s not think about that tonight. Let’s enjoy the weekend.”

“Whiskey in your glass, here’s to turning up, slowing down, and cars that go real fast….” Chase smiles, recognizing the lyrics right away.

“We were laughing and living, drinking and wishing, and thinking as that checkered flag was waving, sure would like to stay in Talladega.” He then wraps an arm around Sarina, pulling her close with a quick kiss. “Let’s make a promise. When you get your first win this season and Abigail gets to see her mommy win, that trophy, no matter what it is, will make it to this room.”

“That’s a good goal to set moving forward, so that’s a deal.”

Tuesday, April 30 – Dawsonville Pool Room

Lindsay walks into the Dawsonville Pool Room, glancing around as she checks everything out. She walks over to the one wall, her eye scanning over the various racing memorabilia that they had collected through the years.

“Hey,” Sarina says as she makes her way over to where Lindsay was standing. “What are you looking at?”

“Just taking it all in,” Lindsay comments. “I imagine that there’s so many stories that each piece could tell.” Sarina nods her head, having had the liberty of hearing some of those courtesy of Chase, Bill and Gordon.

“Like Chase said last year when he unveiled the tribute to Casey, there’s a lot of Elliott family history that people aren’t aware of.”  Lindsay could easily see that, as she takes a closer glance at a couple of things. “By the way, I’m sorry to change our meeting spot at the last minute. I was doing errands, lost track of time, and when I realized what time is what, I texted Chase to meet here with Abigail.”

“It’s fine, actually. I don’t mind being able to check this place out. Now I can tell Ryan that I’ve seen the Pool Room before him.” Sarina chuckles as she remembered Ryan’s comment in reference to Chase never giving him a trip up to the Pool Room with all the time that they spent together.

“Hey, whatever floats your boat. I’m just glad that you made the drive up.” Lindsay actually had to smile at the thought as they made their way to a table and sat down.

“I had some other stops to make on the way, so it made the drive easier to handle.” She then reaches into her backpack, pulling out the series of binders. “So I’m still in total shock that I am getting married in just over two months – and I’m almost panicking. Sure, we have the venue picked out. Sure, it’s easy to put together a guest list, reception location, and we know the wedding party. But there’s something important missing.”

“A wedding gown?” Lindsay nods her head, as she places a binder in particular in the middle of the table. “Two months isn’t a long time, but there’s a lot of opportunity this month to go do some shopping. Erin is done school, I have two weeks off from racing, and I’m sure Emma is up for fashion any time of the day. We’ll make sure that you’re well-dressed for the wedding.”

“I hope because I would at least like to look somewhat decent for the day. I mean, Ryan insists I could wear a paper bag and he’d still say the vows.” Sarina looks over at the table, seeing Chase and Steve were in the midst of recording the podcast.

“Chase was the same way. He told me that all that mattered was being able to tell me he loved me, and how much I meant to him. He didn’t care about anything else. Sometimes I wish things would’ve just stayed that simple…” Lindsay looks over at her puzzled.

“Is everything okay with you both?” Sarina nods her head, knowing there was nothing that they couldn’t conquer together.

“I just want a break, you know? I want to be done with Carter. I want to be done with Alison. I want to be done with court dates and drama. I want to be able to kiss and be near my husband without thinking of someone else’s hands all over my body, touching every inch, hurting…” Sarina takes a deep breath, as a couple tears trickle down her face. “I want to properly celebrate our win together and I couldn’t because I couldn’t forget what he did to me. Do you know how much that hurts?”

“I don’t know, but I can bet that it probably hurts worse than anything imaginable.” Sarina slowly nods her head as Lindsay reaches over the table, placing her hand on her best friend’s. “But I also know that you will get through that pain and be able to find that comfort once again with Chase. You’re the strongest person that I know Sarina, and I mean that with every ounce of me. Nobody in my life has shown the strength that you have to endure what you’ve gone through, and yet still be so positive. You will get through this.”

“I wish I didn’t have to go through it at all….” She then lets out a sigh as she flips open the binder. “So, what type of dress were you thinking?”

“The dress doesn’t matter. Like Ryan said, he’d marry me in a paperbag. Your feelings matter more than my pesky dress.” Sarina glances up from the binder, appreciating the concern. However, she didn’t need that right now.

“I need a distraction. I don’t want to think about it righ-”

“Avoiding it and burying it is not always going to be work. You’re going to need to face this eventually, Sarina.” Sarina nods her head, knowing that from past experience.

“I know, I learned my lesson the last time that I tried to run and not look back without a single glance. That led to me waking up in the middle of the night, crying my feelings out to – at the time – a stra-”

“You were friends, and you had feelings for him. That’s not a total stranger.” Sarina knew that, but it still meant something here.

“Don’t worry, I’m not going to avoid it forever. I am going to tackle it when I know the time is right, and I figure how I want to do that. But for now, can you help a cousin out?” Lindsay nods her head, snatching the binder back so she could flip through to the pages that she marked with the right dress ideas.

Thursday, May 2 – Dover, Delaware

“It’s so beautiful out there,” Sarina comments as she looks out the window of the plane, snapping a couple photos for herself.

“It’s days like these that make me enjoy flying that much more,” Chase replies as he double checks location to make sure they were on point to land soon. “It makes me think back to when we were kids and they would tell the stories of how you could sleep on the clouds.”

“I always imagined them to be as fluffy as the biggest blanket that I owned.” Chase nods his head, having the same thought. “I’m just surprised how much Fletcher has gotten used to flying with us so quickly.”

“My mom says that Abigail is just like I was – I slept like a baby when I flew. She then told me the older that I got, the more I wanted to look around, and the more I was curious about the controls and buttons.” Sarina smiles as she looks over at Chase.

“Just like racing, flying was bred right into you…” She then lets out a sigh as she looks back, double checking on Abigail and Fletcher.

“So I was talking to Alycia about where things stand while you were getting packed with Abigail.” Sarina’s attention immediately turns back forward. “She told me that the paperwork and charges are filed accordingly to each person involved – Carter, Alison, Damien, and also perhaps the lawyer. She went with a mass conspiracy approach, before individual state charges as they should be. Her pause for Arizona was granted for the paperwork process due to the connection. She is now trying to get everything bundled together so our day in Arizona court, we can just handle everything under one roof.”

“That’d save everybody time, so I don’t see how the judge would go against that.” Chase nods his head, in agreement. That was exactly why Alycia was trying to file the motion.

“She’s also filing a motion for the charges against me to be dropped so it’s done, taken care of. She feels there’s more than enough evidence given what happened.” Sarina takes a deep breath, trying to ignore the thoughts in connection to what happened. “If the motion doesn’t go through, there’s no denying that she should get a not guilty verdict from the jury for me.”

“If they say anything else, excuse me but they’re on drugs.”

Chase wanted to easily believe that, however he couldn’t help but have a small sense of worry. What if this all went wrong once again? He wasn’t about to be totally confident until it was all written in stone.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 241: MoneyLion 300 / GEICO 500

Saturday, April 27 – Talladega Superspeedway

Even starting just outside of the top-10, it didn’t take Sarina long to break into the top-10. She then worked with her teammates, keeping herself up front throughout the race. She was able to continue gaining track positioning, ultimately snagging the victory in the second stage.

She started off the third stage just as strong, running up front as she had been all day. However, she would begin to fade back a bit with a series of aggressive moves by Chase Briscoe and Christopher.

Running on the bottom lane in the midst of three-wide, Tyler Reddick came down a little, whether due to loose and not realizing how close they were. His move would result in contact with the side of Sarina’s No. 9 Chevrolet, sending her spinning through the infield grass. She’d tried to get locked up and steered away from the inside wall, but was unable to as she made contact.

“My fault,” she immediately reports back on the radio, which causes Chase to just sit there shaking his head no. That incident was totally on Tyler’s shoulders for not holding his line while running three-wide. “I think it has pretty good nose damage, splitter is dragging pretty bad.”

“Bring it to us,” Dave instructs over the radio as the guys get prepared to do the work necessary. “Take your time, don’t tear it up worse.”

“My steering wheel is pretty straight. It could be dragging with the flats. We’ll just have to see once we get tires on it.”

The team made the repairs necessary, getting her back out there. She’d try to make up the lost ground, but with the car not driving to her liking it proved tougher than she thought. She’d ultimately cross the finish line with an 11^th-place finish.

“I’m sorry,” she says as she climbs out of the car after the race. “I thought I had it locked enough to avoid that inside wall.” Dave nods his head, having seen the replay.

“I thought you were going to miss it, too,” he replies honestly. “Listen, it’s hard in a state of panic to get off the brakes and steer, while braking because you see a concrete barrier before you. Other drivers have done the same thing as you did today. We salvaged a top-15 out of it. Let’s just focus on next week.” Sarina smiles, knowing what she had in mind for Dover already.

“Miles could use a new friend in the nursery.” Dave was a little surprised in learning that Chase had put the monster trophy in the nursery the night he brought it home. However, he understood the reasoning behind doing it with the cute story attached.

“Let’s just hope that thing doesn’t give anybody nightmares….”  That only brought a look of horror from Sarina as she wasn’t ready to go into total mom, taking care of nightmares mode. As it was, she was having enough issues of her own with those.

“How many cars are left to go?” Chase questions, glancing at the scoring tower to see where he was currently set to start if the session was over.

“Five,” Alan answers as he looks down pit road, before returning his eyes back to the timing and scoring. After seeing the speed of Chip Ganassi Racing in practice, he was curious as to where Kurt would end up compared to where they were. It was also part of the strategy to know where all their friends would be starting for Sunday, too.

Chase really didn’t care to focus on the final couple of cars closely, knowing that starting position wasn’t as important here as with other tracks. If you weren’t in the top-five, it didn’t matter whether you were sixth or 20^th with the chaos that usually happens on Sunday here.

He then makes his way back over the pit wall, smiling as he sees Sarina sitting there with Abigail in her arms. He knew it was the perfect therapy after having the end of the Xfinity Series race not go as planned.

He makes his way over to where she was, quietly walking up behind her. Abigail immediately caught his approach, giggling a little more than she had been for Sarina. Sarina didn’t catch on till the last minute, which brought her swinging around quickly to face her.

“Easy….” Chase comments, slowly grabbing her shoulders to make sure that she didn’t go spinning around again or topple over. His eyes also glanced at their daughter, seeing her laughter as she thought the spinning motion was entertaining.

“I’m sorry,” Sarina replies back as she glances down. “That’s the same thing that I did earlier today when Dave walked up behind me. I could’ve fel-”

“Stop apologizing, okay?” She then slowly back up at him. “I should’ve known to be more aware of your feelings. I should’ve understood that you would be a little more on-guard, worried.”

“That’s the same thing that Dave told me, too. I told him that I didn’t want it. I wanted to be treated just like any other day. Is that too much to ask?” Chase shakes his head no as he keeps his hands locked on her arms.

“It’s easily understandable, as you want to move as far away possible form what happened. but you also have to remember that it does affect you, there will be reprecautions and things to work through. Don’t try and shed that way, but rather face it and let it go. It’s easier if you let it go..” She nods her head, having known that from previous experience. But how could she bring herself to tell him her feelings about another man touching her?

“I don’t know if I can ever say or speak about what happened, though….” Chase understood where she was right now, remembering how he put it off for months himself. He also knew where that got him.

“It’ll come to you when the time is right. But also know that you’ll never feel totally comfortable because it’s something that never should’ve…happened…” He then glances away, taking his own deep breath. As much as everybody tried to tell him it wasn’t his fault, there were times that he brought himself back to those words. “It’s not going to be easy. It’ll probably be one of the hardest thing you’ve done. But I know that you’ll be able to do it and get through this because you’re strong.”

“The same goes for you, too, and Chase, it wasn’t your fault…” He nods his head as he looks up at the scoreboard. He was glad to see the session finishing up as that meant he just needed to do his post-qualifying interviews and they could go have some time to themselves. “11^th isn’t too bad of a place to start. Hopefully you end up better than me.”

Sunday, April 28 – Talladega Superspeedway

From the drop of the green flag, Sarina had to keep reminding herself to take deep breathes. She knew it’d be crazy – that was every time they came to Talladega. She knew that they’d be three-wide, bump drafting sometimes in the midst of that. She also knew that Chase was the master at knowing what to do. However, she couldn’t help but feel nerves every single lap.

Coming around on the 10^th lap, she saw the initial contact between Ryan and Bubba that sent Bubba sliding sideways. Her eyes immediately locked on the No. 9 Little Caesar’s Chevrolet, watching as Chase locked up the wheels to slow down, and let the chaos happening with total avoidance. She could only let out a sigh in the process.

“Bring it here,” Alan instructs over the radio as he had watched the same exact view that Sarina had. He wasn’t about to take chances with them sliding the tires. “Four tires and fuel guys.”

Chase brought the No. 9 car in, stopping in the box. The tire change went smoothly on the right side, with the guys coming around to the left side. Her jaw dropped as she watched the pit stop start off smoothly, before the car fell off the jack. The crew guys finished the stop as if there was no issue, before addressing the slight damage to the car as a result. Chase then headed back out, set to start at the tail of the field.

“Speeding,” Eddie D’Hondt tells the team over the radio as Sarina lets out a long sigh. “Tail end of the longest line.”

“Copy that,” Chase simply replies, which brings a smile to Alan’s face on the pit box. He had remembered a previous discussion they had about pit road a couple weeks ago.

“Take care of fuel for me if you can,” Alan instructs as he glances over Tom Gray’s fuel calculations. “We’re going to be right on our number.” He then glances over at Sarina, still not too sure by the look on her face. “Why are you so upset about the penalty? We were starting back there anyway.”

“Because we shouldn’t be speeding to begin with,” she snaps back in return. “Why did you smile, anyway?” Alan couldn’t hide the grin as it widened a bit in pride.

“Because that was by design. Chase knew we were going to start back there, so why not test the waters in the process and see what you can get away with? Now that he knows he sped, he won’t push it that hard leaving the stall next time.” Sarina could only look at the crew chief puzzled. “Call it operation see if we can fool the timing police. Trust me. You can ask him about it later.”

There was no time to dwell on that, or anything else, as both of their eyes focused back on the track with the green flag back out. Chase was able to get with his fellow Chevrolet drivers by design, making his way forward through the stage.

“Should  be good, just take care of it,” Alan tells him with five to go in relation to the fuel. Sarina could only tape her foot in nerves in response, scared between a wreck happening or running out of fuel. “You’ve got one lap on the switch.”

Thankfully, they had done their math correctly as Chase was able to finish the stage without any issues, scoring a fourth-place finish. The pit crew then made up for their mistake earlier, performing a flawless pit stop to get Chase back out there in the lead.

The restart would not go as well as they hoped, with the Fords getting lined up quicker, enabling the Team Penske trio to get the early advantage in the second stage.

However, Chevrolet’s plan would come together with them getting in line, with Sarina smiling a little wider in how it formed with Chase leading his HMS teammates Alex and William. If there was anybody to be behind pushing Chase, she knew that she could trust Alex beyond anybody else.

The group working the top line were able to get a run, with Chase moving up to the outside.

NEW LEADER: @chaseelliott is out front after a huge run that @StenhouseJr couldn't stop.

Tune in for the Stage 2 finish on FOX! pic.twitter.com/3tCtclIeGe

— NASCAR (@NASCAR) April 28, 2019

“Ricky fucking Stenhouse!” Sarina lets out as Chase squeezes barely by for the lead. She felt every single nerve reach it peg in that moment in seeing how close they came. “You knew he was there!”

“….And that is why Ricky is the king at causing wrecks on these types of tracks,” Josh Kirk comments, rubbing her shoulders in an effort to calm her down.

The rubbing didn’t do anything, but rather the sight before her on the track as Chase began to build a sizable lead with his teammates tucked in line behind, followed by a couple more Chevrolets. With them organized on the bottom of the track, it seemed nobody else could get a run formed up on the top lane to make a move.

“Talk to me Alan,” Chase says over the radio, surprised how smoothly this was coming together as he had expected a stronger run from Ford back in return after how the initial restart went. He also wondered if they were close on the fuel number once again, too. They didn’t need to run out while leading their teammates around.

“Just keep doing what you’re doing,” Alan simply replies as he sits back with a peaceful look on his face. He admittedly was surprised at how well the plan had come together, considering all the times Chevrolet tried before and failed.

The plan worked all the way to the end of the stage, with Chase taking the second stage victory easily. The pit crew once again performed flawlessly, enabling Chase to keep the lead off of pit road.

With Hendrick Motorsports taking up the top-three positions, they enabled the “perfect restart set-up” with Chase taking the top lane, Alex in the bottom, and the right amount of push to give Chase enough room to slot down in front of his teammate.

“Stay on the bottom,” Alan advises over the radio, still very pleased with what he was seeing. He just didn’t want to leave his driver hanging like he did earlier. “Take care of your car here. You’re doing good.”

Everything held together all the way until the caution came out.

Coming down pit road, Alan once again elected to put four tires underneath Chase, wanting to give him the best maneuverability for the late stages of the event. However, other drivers would elect for just two tires, resulting in Chase coming off pit road in eighth.

Despite starting a little further back, he kept himself in the thick of things with the fellow Chevrolet drivers. He was also able to put together a clean pit road sequence, as well as his fellow comrades. In exchange, though Sarina could only chuckle in watching David Ragan stop in Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s pit box, while Brad Keselowski spun getting onto pit road – still landing perfectly in his box but backwards.

“That was a hold my beer and watch me do this moment,” she comments herself, as she shakes her head in pure disbelief.

“That 37 might not be the answer out front,” she hears Alan comment over the radio, causing her attention to focus back on-track to Chase and his fellow Chevrolet drivers. She had to agree as it seemed Chris Buescher wasn’t as strong at pulling the train as they’d seen others able to do through the event.

As the laps began to trickle down to the end, Chase kept to the plan of sticking to the bottom groove of the race track. It paid off as slowly, drivers began to make moves in the upper grooves, allowing him to continue to gain ground. With four laps to go, Kurt Busch would make the move to try and pass Joey Logano, causing Logano to go up and block. With the bottom lane open and a freight train of Chevrolets lined up behind him, Chase was able to get underneath, getting by with Bowman in toe for the lead.

“Come on Chase!!!” Sarina lets out, feeling every bit of excitement immediately.

“3 at the line,” Eddie reports over the radio.

2 laps to go.

Final lap. She then watched as Stenhouse spun around deep in the field, making contact with the outside wall. Her eyes focused on the flag stand, expecting a caution flag, but none was to be found.

“Seriously?!?” She questions, actually surprised given the sport’s commitment to safety. Her eyes then returned back to the familiar orange No. 9 Chevrolet as they went down the backstretch. She knew with Alex riding in second that he’d stay there for now – but coming back around, a move would be made.

Then it happened.

She watched the contact in the back of the field, watching as Kyle Larson’s No. 42 Chevrolet came spinning around, before beginning to flip in the air as it made contact with the backstretch wall. Her jaw dropped in shock in what she was seeing, hoping that he’d be alright. However, she also knew what that meant as the caution came out.

“Caution is out,” Eddie D’Hondt says as it happens. “Got a wreck on the backstretch. Caution is out.”

“Good job fellas,” Alan replies back in response, pumping his fist in the air. He knew NASCAR rules and with Bowman still locked in toe, it meant they were clearly leading no matter when exactly that yellow came out. “This should be us there.”

“Hell yes!” Chase lets out over the radio as Sarina jumps up in excitement on the pit box. “Awesome job guys! Thank you!”

“That was Chevy domination,” Eddie comments, as the crew begins to high-five each other on pit road.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 240: “I could watch Abigail for you.”

Friday, April 26 – Talladega Superspeedway

Chase climbs out of the car, glancing over at Alan, letting out a simple sigh as Alan could only glance back with a questionable glance on his face.

“I thought you said you were happy with the car….” Alan finally speaks as Chase carefully places his helmet and gloves back in the car on the dash.

“We have a great car – it does what I want it to do,” Chase begins, which confirmed every good feeling Alan had combined with being fifth quickest on the chart – not that it mattered, truthfully. “I can run top, bottom, front, back – we’re just as strong as we were at Daytona and last year here.”

“Then what’s the problem?” Chase hated to complain as he had been trying to keep the attitude of just rolling with the package each week. However, there was no way they were getting away from this topic as quickly.

“The runs are so big. It is so easy to get a run on someone, and they’re huge when they come. You’re just right there on top of the guy right away. In practice, you can handle it because the guy behind will offer some leeway as you duck out a little, or back out of it. But if we start doing that during the race, do you realize what could happen?” Alan nods his head, already adding up the pieces in his head. There were already enough wrecks happening on these tracks without another additional sensation thrown on top of it.

“What about the speed? Do you realize that you’re over 200 – like 210, 215?” Chase wasn’t surprised as he knew the speeds were going to be quicker given the science behind the package.

“I guess I know what Dad felt like around here…” Alan chuckles, knowing that reference right away.

“Well, NASCAR is making us add a one-inch wicker to the top of the spoiler to hopefully curb that some. Maybe it’ll help the run issue, too.” Chase could only hopeful still not fully confident with what he felt. “By the way, I saw that Sarina shared a photo of her tattoo this morning.”

“Yeah, I took the image for her. She wanted to do it as part of National Infertility Awareness Week. She wanted to offer hope, while sharing how she’s tried to make her experience better. She asked if I wanted to share mine with her, but I told her I wanted to keep that between us.” Alan smiles, having caught a glance of it before on Chase’s shoulder.

“For what it’s worth, it is very nice. That’s the perfect way to mark that and move forward.” Alan then places his hand on Chase’s shoulder. “How are you doing with that, anyway?” Chase lets out a sigh. “Really?”

“For me, it’s fine as I’ve chalked it up to another stunt, nothing surprising or new. However, there’s Sarina. Everybody knows what she went through, Alan, but yet she’s handling it like nothing happened. She wanted to still go with me to the golf course on Tuesday, an event with Samantha this week. The only time she has let that show is one night where she fell asleep crying in my arms.” Alan glances down, shaking his head. He hated to see them both going through this.

“So you’re worried about her?” Chase nods his head. “I don’t blame you, really. But you know that she will come to you when the time is right for her. She always does.”

“I know – but the waiting is more painful than anything.” Alan nods his head sympathically.

“So what’s this event that she attended with Samantha on Wednesday? I heard a couple details from Shannon.” Chase walks over to the pit box, snatching his phone as he walks back over. He unlocks it, bringing up some of the photos.

“So it was a conference that Samantha put together to start discussion about infertility, the struggles woman go through…..

As Chase told him the details, Alan could easily glance over and smile himself in seeing how Chase instantly lit up talking about it. He could easily see how much he admired Sarina and appreciated what she was doing. He hoped that happiness was something he’d continue seeing, too.

“That was much better….” Chase comments as Alan walks over following the second practice session. “I mean, the runs are still decent, but at least we can easily handle them.”

“And there was no issues drafting with Kurt or Austin, right?” Alan wonders, glad that they tried it for a couple of laps with the discussion of a Chevrolet alliance for Sunday.

“It just felt as good as when I pulled up behind Jimmie.” Alan nods his head, easily accepting the driver’s explanation. He felt pretty good about their chances heading into Sunday – as long as things worked out. “Now do you really think the plan is going to work on Sunday?”

“We’ve tried this before and it’s failed completely on its face. That’s why we partnered up with Joe Gibbs Racing for the Daytona 500. Now, that caught the aura of Jim Campbell and he was beyond pissed. Actually, just be glad that you had court on the date of the first meeting as Chad said he laid into them.” Chase looks over surprised, not used to seeing that side of Chevrolet’s vice president of competition.

“I guess that comes out when you haven’t won races since last year.” Alan slowly nods his head, certainly not proud of that statistic himself. That certainly didn’t fit the attitude of Chevrolet, or Hendrick Motorsports.

“I was skeptical when Chad mentioned that was the topic of the meeting. I was skeptical sitting in the second crew chief only meeting. However, seeing that Jim hosted two more meetings and he was very stern in his approach, I am feeling better about it working out. The fact that Austin wanted to work with you a bit this practice also gives me hope. I just hope when push comes to shove on Sunday, they don’t bail on us.” Chase hated the thought of that, knowing that’d mean stuck right in the eye of the storm if it happened. He wrecked enough cars at Talladega to not want to repeat the experience.,

“Do we have a back-up plan in case?” Alan shakes his head no, having stuck to the Chevrolet-only plan with Jim’s constant overheads on them.

“Listen, you’re smart. You know how to make moves to win these races. We’ve ran up front before without any help. You can do it again if you have to. Just play it smart, and do your thing; we’ll be fine on Sunday.” Chase was easily ready to eat into those words, knowing that each time they had wrecked it was while running up front. “So I saw Sarina earlier. She mentioned heading back to the motorcoach to relax with Abigail for a bit before you went out.”

“Ah, shit!” Chase goes over and grabs his phone off of the counter, checking his text messages with a sigh. “I may as well tell her to cancel plans.”

“Why? What’s wrong?” Chase shoves his phone back in his pocket, knowing he’d have to send a couple messages later.

“My mom was supposed to come today. She’s not coming until Sunday because Grandma is coming, too – which is a great thing, actually.” Alan nods his head, having met Chase’s grandma a couple of times and having no issues. “She was going to watch Abigail tonight while Sarina and I did the Talladega Blvd party with Jeff and Ryan.”

“Sarina was up to doing that after everything, too?” Chase nods his head, remembering the discussion last night.

“She told me that hadn’t done much there in her career, but yet had heard the stories. That turned into conversations with Jeff and Ryan the past couple of weeks, resulting in them giving her an invite to the driver’s stage party. I told her that she didn’t need to do it as they’d understand, but she gave me the same reason as she did Tuesday, and Wednesday. It’s her way of being strong, and feeling in control, gaining the power back by doing things as normally as possible.” Alan could understand Sarina’s want to do that, having heard the discussions of those in her situation feeling weak. He also hated to see their plans cancelled due to a simple change by someone else.

“I could watch Abigail for you.” Chase then looks over at his crew chief, surprised. “I’m serious! I am just saying in tonight organizing notes and relaxing. I could easily watch her while I do that in the motorcoach. It’d probably be better company than Josh.”

“I love you, too!” Josh lets out, flinging a dirty rag across the car at the crew chief.

“Are you sure Shannon wouldn’t mind?” Chase wonders and Alan shakes his head no.

“She hated when she couldn’t coddle over the boys any longer so this would allow her to experience that again, too,” Alan adds.

“It may also inspire her, allowing the crew chief to get some,” Josh teases, which easily earns the rag being chucked right back across the car at him.

“Guys, you’re going to mark up the car….” Chase comments as the pair trade glances. “Alan, you don’t hav-”

“I know, but I want to,” Alan cuts him off. “Let me have some time with the princess.”

The night started off as they hopped on the driver’s stage, with Jeff Gordon immediately placing a bunch of beads around Sarina’s neck.

“I know you’re his princess, but tonight – you’re the stage princess,” he comments as she just smiles back in response. “Actually, throw them to the crowd! You’ll make some new fans in the process. Meanwhile, he doesn’t need in beads as he’s already Mr. Popularity.” Chase just chuckles back in response.

“Do I need to remind you that I won Most Popular Driver for the trucks last year?” Sarina suggests as Jeff looks over surprised. The nod from Chase offered the confirmation he needed, as he snatched a couple of the beads back.

“These should go to someone in need – like say Keselowski.”

“He gonna need more than beads to become popular…” Chase and Jeff both look at surprised by the roast, before they watch him  walk away.

The pair got engulfed in the fun, and Sarina easily discovered why everybody likes coming out to Talladega to simply party. Dancing to the music on stage with Chase, combined with watching the fans play the various games, certainly had her entertained. It was a welcome feeling as the first time, other than when she was racing, she was able to totally forget what happened on Monday without a single thought. The experience only got better when Lindsay and Ryan joined them.

“I found us some friends!” They hear, glancing over with curiosity.

“Oh boy….” Ryan comments as he watches Clint Bowyer and Corey LaJoie make their way over to them.

“Save me,” Corey whispers quietly, earning a chuckle from Ryan and Chase.

“No cups?” Clint questions as he checks both of their hands. He then snaps his fingers, which results in a gentleman walking over with a couple bottles in hand. “Alright, drink something!”

“We have to qualify tomorrow…..” Ryan offers as he shakes his head no.

“You’re a party pooper. Chase?” Chase shakes his head no, as well. “Oh that’s right, you don’t drink wise one.” That immediately caused Ryan to chuckle as he remembered the stories from their vacations.

“There’s a reason he fell in a pool last year….” Clint then freezes, looking at Chase surprised. He then turns to Lindsay, which earns a head shake in return.

“I’m pregnant,” she replies as he looks between Ryan and Lindsay surprised.

“Do you not know how to wrap it?” Clint questions as Ryan rolls his eyes, as Chase and Corey have a light chuckle. Clint then looks over at Sarina, earning another head shake. “You’re preg-”

“I race tomorrow, and I don’t drink anyway,” she answers as Clint lets out a sigh. He then wraps an arm around Corey.

“We didn’t find us friends, bud….” Corey then lets out a sigh as Clint leads him away. “I thought they’d be cool because they’re popular, but that’s not true.”

“Poor Corey,” Chase comments with a laugh as Ryan just shakes his head.

Saturday, April 27 – Talladega Superspeedway

Sarina stands by her car as qualifying finishes up, seeing that she would end up qualifying 14^th for the event. It wasn’t the best effort, but it wasn’t the worse either. It just meant that she’d have to find a comfortable spot early not being quite all the way up front.

She then feels a hand touch her shoulder, causing her to jump around, arm swinging in the air in the process. She barely misses making contact with her crew chief Dave Elenz, who stepped back right away, freezing as she catches his eyes.

“I’m sorry….” She instantly lets out, turning her back to him as she focuses her eyes back on the racecar. She felt every bit of embarrassment and guilt coming through in that very moment.

“No no, it’s okay,” Dave tries to ease the situation immediately. He wanted to reach out and touch her for a sign of comfort, but was scared of being decked or affecting her more. “I came up quietly and you didn’t realize it was me here.”

“I should’ve known that it was you or another crew mem-”

“You couldn’t have known, and it’s better than sorr-”

“I almost decked you in the side of the head!” She then turns to face him, finally. “What kind of driver would I be if I decked my crew chief in the side of the head after he’s done everything to help me and give me good cars?”

“You’d be the driver that everybody understands is going through a lot right now…” She then lets out a sigh as she looks down at her shoes. That wasn’t the appearance that she wanted to put on this weekend.

“I don’t want special treatment or understanding. I don’t want this to linger over my head. I don’t want to be known as the person who fought as hard as she could and still couldn’t do what she needed to do. I just want everything to go back to normal!” She then sniffs in the couple of tears beginning to fall. “I’m sorr-”

“No, it’s okay…” Dave slowly reaches out, placing his hand on her shoulder for support. “They say it’s better for you to let it out than hold it in, so it’s okay. I understand – just like I told you earlier. I also understand what you’re saying, and that’s why I’ve just gone through this weekend like I normally would without any issues.” She nods her head, having realized and appreciated that. “If it makes you feel better, I will continue to do that for you. if you want someone more caring, I can do that to help you. But if you want the same approach like nothing happened, I will do it. But I want you to know, just like I told you yesterday, I’m here for you…”

“And I appreciate that, fully.” She then rubs her eyes, immediately trying to pretend the incident never happened. “Why did you come to see me?”

“We have the driver’s meeting to go to.” She nods her head, accepting, beginning to walk away from the car immediately.

“We better not be late. I don’t feel like starting last today.” He then hurries to catch up with her, wanting to ask if she was okay. However, he bit his tongue, remembering her words. He had to treat it like a normal weekend, no matter how worried he got. It was all about giving her the comfort she desired.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 239: National Infertility Awareness Week

Wednesday, April 24 – Dawsonville, Georgia

Chase walks into the bathroom, standing in the doorway as he watches Sarina brush her hair.

His mind kept thinking back to last night, and the fact that she woke up on a couple different occasions shaking in his arms, crying as she had flashbacks to what happened. While he was able to help her with cuddles and words of assurance, he hated that he couldn’t do anything else to make the feeling go away from her. It absolutely gutted him worse than his own thoughts about Alison to think about what she had been through.

“Let me help you,” he finally speaks out loud, walking over as he takes the brush from her hands. He then brushes it through her long hair a couple times, before putting it up in the ponytail that she desired. “You look absolutely beautiful.”

“Do you really meant that?” She questions as she looks up at her reflection in the mirror, seeing him nod his head behind her. “I appreciate that. I really do appreciate that. I wish I felt it more.” She then glances down, as he rubs her shoulders. “I just – I almost feel like a total different person when I’m still me. How is that?”

“I don’t know, honestly. I can understand the reasoning due to what you’ve been through. But I want you to know that no matter what, you’re absolutely stunning to me.” She wanted to let the words soak in, but all she could picture in her mind was rough hands pushing against every part of her body.

“You’re just telling me that to make me feel bett-”

“No, I’m telling you that with complete honesty because it’s true beyond anything. You’ve always been beautiful from the day that I met you, and that hasn’t changed. Actually, I think my fondness for you has only grown more. I love you, Sarina…” He then kisses her shoulder.

“Are you sure that I chose the right dress for tonight?” He nods his head, as he absolutely loved how it flowed down the length of her body. “It doesn’t show anything, does it?”

“No.” He then goes back to rubbing her shoulders, as he lets out a sigh. He appreciated how strong she was being – admired her for the strength that she was showing. However, he knew what was going on beneath that. He saw signs by her inability to sleep last night, and now this conversation. It was the same thing that he tried to call her out on yesterday at the golf course. “Are you sure you want to do this, tonight?”

“Absolutely. I promised Samantha that I would be there.” Chase nods his head, remembering when she told him about the conversation the ladies had about this conference.

“Samantha would understand with what happened why you were unable to atte-”

“But what about the others?” She then turns around to face him, looking into his eyes. “What about the woman out there fighting for a dream to have a baby? What about the woman who can’t afford the countless doctor appointments, treatments? What about those who never get their miracle? What about those who went through a miscarriage, without any sign of hope moving forward? Chase, we got our blessing; we were able to have the daughter of our dreams. I want to be part of the reason why others are able to do that, too.” He nods his head, remembering the passion that she displayed when she told him about the details initially. It was another reason why he admired her.

“I know you want to make a difference, and I admire everything about you what you’re doing. However, you don’t always have to be strong. It’s okay to admit when  you need to take a break, a breather. It’s okay to admit when you’re hurting. We both know what you went through, and we both know how that’s affected you. I just don’t want you to push yourself too far by doing this.” She nods her head, easily accepting the advice that he was offering. She could also see where he was coming from, as she had some nerves about facing the crowd tonight. Would they look at her differently due to word getting out about what happening? Would that become the focus, rather than the difference they were trying to make? However, call it her stubborn nature, she wasn’t about to not do anything tonight.

“Chase, I am going to be fine tonight – I promise you. I appreciate you caring so much, but I am going to be fine. I can handle this.” She then leans in, lightly kissing his cheek, before leaving the bathroom to go looking for her shoes.

Wednesday, April 24 – National Infertility Awareness Week Conference – Charlotte, North Carolina

Chase stood at the back of the room, watching as Sarina sat on stage alongside Samantha and the other five ladies. Each of them were sharing their story and experience with infertility, followed by opening up a panel to discuss the many topics they faced.

“I’m surprised to see you here tonight,” Chase hears, catching his attention as he looks over his shoulder to see Kyle standing there. He easily accepts the drink from him, before looking back forward to focus on the ladies up front. He wasn’t about to take his eyes off of Sarina no matter what tonight.

“I’m surprised as well, to be honest,” Chase confesses as Kyle looks over at him. “I wasn’t on-board with her being tonight, afraid of how it’d affect her with everything that happened. I even told her that as she was getting ready before we flew down here. I reminded her that she didn’t need to be superwoman. But she was adamant on being here.” Kyle nods his head, as his eyes focus back forward on Samantha.

“Do you remember the Cup Series banquet?” Chase had to look over slightly confused. “So we lost our baby girl the night before the banquet. I remember lying with Samantha the next morning. I kept telling her that it was okay if she didn’t come with me as I could cover for her. I told her that it was okay if we told everyone, as I could handle what came with it. I also told her that Joey and Brittany wouldn’t see it as a slap of face in distraction of the championship. However, we both know how adamant she was on handling it and going through the night as if nothing happened.”

“I never would’ve known if Sarina hadn’t said something. You both pulled that off perfectly..” Kyle nods his head, remembering how hard it was at time in hearing the comments from various people through the night.

“Whether it’s Samantha that night, or Sarina tonight, I understand why they handled it like they did. They both want to prove that they’re strong. they want to show their strength that they can fight through whatever is thrown their way. They want to show the world that no matter what is going on, you can be the perfect image of strength and encouragement. It’s all about keeping the rough moments and tears hidden so nobody knows.” Chase easily understood that, as it brought him back to the previous night.

“So what do we do while they’re trying to be superwoman?” Kyle smiles, remembering exactly how he handled it with Samantha through the highs and lows.

“You just be there. You offer the encouraging words. You offer the shoulder for them to lean on. When they’re ready to break down and share those emotions, you let them cry on you, vent to you, hear them out. When they want advice, you try to offer what you can. I know it sounds pointless and typical, but it means more than you probably realize.” Kyle glances over at Chase, remembering a moment back at the motorcoach last season. “You were the same way. The girls went to the grocery store, and you played with Brexton. You also had him come over for a sleepover – just because you wanted a break from everything. Remember those moments you had, but also think about how Sarina helped you through your fears with Alison. Look back and realize how much those small moments meant. Now it’s your turn to just deliver right back to her in return, 10 fold.”

“Thank you.” Kyle smiles as he was glad to lighten the load on Chase’s shoulders a little with his advice.

“And for what’s it worth, I hope that they pay for everything that they did to you both because I will admit that I felt sick to my stomach when Christopher told me what happened.” Chase nods his head, remembering when he was laying in the hospital bed and his dad told him.

They then watch as the girls finish up their conference on stage, before rejoining them at the back of the room. Chase instantly wraps an arm around Sarina, pulling her close with a kiss on the cheek.

“You did an amazing job up there,” he tells her. “I’m proud of you for wanting to make a difference and your courage. You’re amazing. I love you, forever and always.”

“I love you too, Clyde,” she replies. “Thank you for letting me share our story for all these other ladies to hear.”

Thursday, April 25 – NAPA Headquarters – Atlanta, Georgia

It was annual tradition, but at least it was somewhat fun compared to some of the other things the sponsors made him do. NAPA Employee Appreciation Day resulted in Chase having to make the trip up to headquarters, posing with and signing autographs for the various members. It was an experience that could be fun sometimes with the stories some of them had to share in return, and it was nice to catch up with his fellow NAPA driver representatives.

While he hated being away from Sarina for the day, he knew that he couldn’t skip out on the obligation as they were the primary sponsor and it wouldn’t be the brightest look. That’s why he was thankful that Sarina was able to stay at his parent’s house, not surprised that his parents easily accepted as he knew they loved spending time with Abigail.

“How’s your little girl?” Ron Capps asks as they make their way inside for a couple of photo-ops after being done with the meet-and-greet.

“Adorable and amazing as ever,” Chase answers, pulling up a couple images from the Easter photoshoot earlier that month on his phone. “It’s crazy how much she’s growing every day and changing. Her giggle is the absolute cutest.”

“Obviously she hasn’t pooped on you if you’re still feeling the honeymoon phrase,” Brad Sweet teases, in which Chase simply rolls his eyes in return. Admittedly, that hadn’t happened yet – but Chase didn’t see that changing what he thought of his girls. “So when are we getting you in the sprint car?”

“I can’t even convince the boss to let me try Alex’s midget. How am I supposed to convince him about that?” Brad could only smirk back in response.

“Do and then ask for forgiveness later?” Chase lets out a sigh as he knew that was defiantly an option. However, he wasn’t about to go behind Mr. Hendrick’s back as he had too much respect for the boss for that.

“I bet you’ll probably get Sarina in the car before he runs it,” Alexander Rossi teases as Chase rolls his eyes. He was used to the teasing from the boys each time they met.

“I’m surprised she hasn’t tried a midget with how much time she spends with Christopher and Morgan,” Brad offers, which brings a smirk to Alexander’s face. There was an obvious direction that they normally headed down at this time in their efforts to tease Chase. However, both being aware of what happened with the rest of the world, they both bit their tongues. “I bet you’ll probably end up in it before him, too.”

“I still say we need to convince Ron to make a left turn for once.” Ron shakes his head no as he wraps an arm around the shoulders of the youngest member.

“You’re awfully quiet Derek,” Ron comments, in reference to Derek Kraus.

“I’m just taking it all in,” he replies with a glance between the group. “But for the record, I’m willing to try whatever car you throw my way – seeing as though Chase is too scared.” The comment catches the group by surprise as they hadn’t expected him to throw the dig in so quickly.

“Suddenly you’re my new favorite!” Brad comments, offering a high-five for Derek.

“I promise you fear has nothing to do with it,” Chase offers as they get ready to pose for the next series of photos. If he could handle everything thrown at him the past couple of years, then  let’s face it – he could handle anything the world threw at him. He was just glad that he got to take on the challenge with Sarina by his side.

Friday, April 26 – Talladega Superspeedway

Sarina climbs from the car, offering a pair thumbs up for Dave in the process.

“Are you really that happy?” Dave Elenz questions and she nods her head as she walks over, snatching her bottle of water off of the pit box.

“I was able to move from the top lane to the bottom, run both and have no issues at all,” she answers, recalling the series of practice moves. “I ran front of the little group, back of the little group – the car felt exactly how you’d want it to feel in those situations. I think we’re absolutely ready to go for Saturday.”

“I’m glad to hear that as we’re skipping the second practice.” She then glances over, actually a little surprised by the comment.

“And what if I wasn’t happy?” He then shrugs his shoulders as he walks away from her.

“I just feel there’s no need to continue risking the chance of something happening, and making wasted laps to learn nothing. It’d be a good idea to give everybody a small brea-”

“You don’t need to offer special treatment or care, Dave. I told you that already.” She had warned him on Thursday that she wasn’t expecting any special in return from any of the guys in relation to their concerns about how she was doing. She just wanted to go through the weekend as normally as humanly possible.

“If it was just about you, why are all four JR Motorsports cars following the same plan? We know what the cars and team is capable of on these tracks. We’ll be at the front when it counts tomorrow.” She nods her head, knowing was dependent on one thing – making the right moves at the right time to put herself in the position necessary.

“Let’s just hope that we do a better job at that than we did in Daytona.” She then glances over towards the Cup Series garage, seeing Chase getting ready to head out on track. “Are we done for the day then?”

“Yes madam. You’re free to go stare at your husband all day long.” She then rolls his eyes, having grown used to comments of that nature from Dave and the crew. However, today, she had a different purpose. She reaches onto the pit car shelf, grabbing the camera she had stashed there earlier. “Oh no, did Chase get you taking photos, too?”

“Actually, that’s something that I’ve enjoyed doing – normally shooting flowers and nature. I thought I’d have some fun and take photos at a race track instead. Maybe it’d calm my nerves some.” It was also something that she hoped would be a good distraction from the other thoughts that were on her mind, too.

“Well good luck with that. And Sarina, I know we’re not close by any means, but I do tend to worry about you and are here to talk if necessary.” She nods her head, as it was common to also hear the offers of support. However, while she’d been easily able to do that with Marcus and Rudy, the same couldn’t be said as of right yet with Dave.

“I appreciate it, Dave, but I’m good right now.” She then makes her way out of the garage stall, heading over to the Cup Series garage. She knew standing on top of the hauler with Chase’s guys would give her a good vantage point – and the security that she wanted to feel right now.

The Tale of Love & Racing: Sarina’s Story – Chapter 238: “I’m going to be okay. I have my Clyde.”

Monday, April 22 – Delaware State Hospital

The doctor re-glances over his notes, seeing what he had marked down through the questions and vitals check.

“Have you felt any muscle convulsions since waking up?” The doctor asks and Chase shakes his head no. He remembered what those felt like from a previous drugging experience, and didn’t even want to head back down that road again. It was one of the most unreal, strange feelings. “Have you had any hallucinations?”

“He had a pair before he woke up,” Bill reminds the doctor, having told him that initially when he entered. While he was hopeful they’d be in the clear to make the trip down to Georgia and see Sarina, he had been as honest as he could with the doctor about Chase’s condition. He cared about them and wanted to let them comfort each other, but it wasn’t going to be by taking chances.

“Have you had any since then?” Chase shakes his head no. “You spoke of a bit of nausea….”

“Like when you have the flu essentially,” Chase tries to clarify as he lets out a sigh. “Please, I’m begging you doc. I just want to head down to Georgia to be there for my wife. I won’t be leaving her side, or doing anything else for the rest of the night. She’s still at the hospital, so if anything comes up, I can address it accordingly. I wouldn’t be asking – except for this reason. I need to be there for her, please…”

“Your vitals look strong – as they have since you arrived,” the doctor starts as he takes another glance at the notes. “Ketamine is not the most lethal drug – actually, if you’re going to be drugged for the purpose of date-rape, that’s the safest.” Chase just rolls his eyes, not feeling any comfort in learning these details.

“She actually cared about me a little, I guess….” Bill just grunts at the thought of Alison, not even wanting to head back down that road. He had hoped to totally avoid that after last year’s experience firsthand with her and seeing how much Chase dealt with.

“However, it is known for a good period after that you’ll be in and out of it, and have the sickness feeling that you’re speaking of. For that reason, we normally keep patients for 24 hours for observation before releasing them for at-home care with their relatives until they’re feeling better.” Chase didn’t feel much hope in hearing that news, except for the word ‘normally’ being casually dropped in there. Was he going to be the unique case today? While he wasn’t one to request any special treatment, this was a situation where he was ready to take advantage of whatever he could. “However, you’ve clearly stated your intentions and plans – to be with your wife who is currently at Northeast Georgia. Therefore, as you stated, you will be surrounded by doctors if anything comes up. So I am going to make a deal in this case. I am going to release you, with the instructions to be flown home by your father and then once you reach the hospital, I want you to give them a copy of your file that I am going to give you. Therefore, they can properly monitor you if anything comes up.”

“I am willing to do whatever it takes, sir,” Chase comments.

Monday, April 22 – Northeast Georgia Medical Center

“This room right here,” Bill instructs once they reach the room, as he had followed the instructions as Morgan texted him. He had made sure to add both Christopher and Morgan’s numbers for future reference now, just in case. He didn’t want to ignore their next phone call or text in case. “You go in and see her. I am going to hand over your file to the desk as we were told. The doctor called ahead so they’re expecting it.”

The words totally went over Chase’s head as all that mattered was the beautiful woman inside the room before him. Taking a deep breath, wanting to be strong for her as he could only imagine what she was feeling, he slowly makes his way into the room.

“Chase!” Morgan lets out, noticing him first, as Christopher looks to see him standing there before them. Since Sarina was put in the room for observation, both of them had remained there with Christopher holding her hand, offering Kleenex, whatever he could for comfort.

“I told you that he’d come see you no matter what,” Christopher quietly comments as he stands up, freeing up the chair right by Sarina’s bed.

“Thank you for taking care of her,” Chase quietly comments, earning a simple nod from Christopher in return. He then goes to sit down in the chair, but that immediately earns a head shake from Sarina. “What do you want?”

“Come with me, please,” Sarina practically whispers, as she shifts over in the bed a little. Chase easily followed the instructions, letting her lay against him once they were both situated together. He then wraps both arms around her, kissing her cheek.

“I love you. I’m here for you. I’ll always be here for you. I’m sorry I broke my promise…” The tears then begin to slide down his cheeks once again just like earlier as she glances up at him.

“It’s not your fault, Chase. I’m not mad at you. You haven’t broke your promis-”

“I let this happ-”

“No, you were following court ordered instructions that were given to you. That’s not your fault, Chase.  By doing whatever you could to be here with me, that’s keeping your promise. Thank you, and I love you..” She then lays her head back against his chest, feeling her own wave of tears begin to slide down her cheeks. “I tried….I tried, Chase. I did whatever I could. I screamed, I pushed, I bit, I fought, I kicked – I tried….”

“I believe that because you’re one of the most amazing, beautiful, strong fighters that I know. I know that you would do whatever it took, and I’m proud of you for being as strong as you are. We’re going to get through this.” She wanted to believe his words as he had told that before and they were able to move forward, however it felt like there was a cloud lingering over her head.

“The doctor wanted to keep her here overnight for observation, as a result of the bruises and pain,” Christopher interrupts, catching Chase’s attention. While he wanted to be there for her, he couldn’t help but feel worry about the situation. “They gave her the pill to counteract a chance of her being pregnant, or anything else for that matter. However, they noticed a bit of blood from how far he pushed her inside. They were worried about a tear in the lining, but there was nothing so they chalked it up to being due to the simple force and other reasons.”

“Retroverted uturus?” Chase questions, earning a nod in response from Morgan as she paid attention to that detail. She had since googled it, out of pure curiosity. “Yeah, I’m aware of that. We found that out a while ago. That’s why I know when I’m with her to be careful, easy, and not push her past her limits.” He then glances down at her in his arms, keeping her clutched tightly as she closes her eyes.

“She has been on the verge of freak out, between tears, just wanting you – I was worried for her Chase. I mean, I know what she went through is more traumatic than anything imaginable, but it scared me.” Sarina slowly opens her eyes as she looks over at Christopher.

“I’m sorry….” She lets out quietly as he shakes his head. He wasn’t about to accept the apology given the situation.

“You don’t need to apologize as we understand from what you’ve been through,” Christopher comments.

“Thank you for being here for me…but….” She then shifts slightly, allowing herself to bury her head deeper in his sweater against him. “I’m going to be okay. I have my Clyde.”

“I’m never letting you go,” Chase tells her, kissing the top of her head. “I love you. I’ll do whatever it takes for you. You’re going to be okay…” She then slowly lets out a yawn, which he easily follows through with himself. “Close your eyes. Get some sleep.”

“You promise me you won’t go anywhere?” She questions and he shakes his head no.

“Like I told you – I’m here for you no matter what.” He then lets out another yawn himself.

“I think you should get some rest yourself,” Bill comments as he enters the room with the doctor in toe.

“I know….” Chase simply replies as his eyes don’t leave the sight in his arms. He could feel the next wave of sleepiness coming over him.

“We’re going to take some blood to see the concentration in your system to compare to what they showed in the previous test,” the doctor reveals, catching his attention. That certainly wasn’t the news you wanted to hear as you were ready to sleep. “Then we’ll continue IV fluids as your body works its way through this, as well as closely monitoring vitals. If anything else pops up, be sure to inform the nurse so we can address accordingly.”

Once the doctor followed through in his requested instructions for Chase, the pair got comfortable together, easily falling into a comforting sleep being reunited together. Bill knew that’s what they both needed, in knowing how upset Sarina must’ve been and the energy taken out of her, combined with how Chase was feeling.

“Your parents are so adorable together,” Cindy comments as she looks into the room, cuddling Abigail in her arms. “I remember when I first met your mother. I was so set on making sure that your dad didn’t move forward with her. I even told him that he should break up with her. I’m glad that he was stubborn, though, because I wouldn’t want him with anybody else now.” She then looks down into Abigail’s eyes, smiling in seeing the baby chuckles back in response. “Your parents will be okay, sweetheart. I know that because they have each other, and so many other people to take care of them. I also know that you’ll bring more smiles to their faces than they even know.”

“She certainly loves her grandma,” Bill replies as he walks over, wrapping an arm around Cindy’s shoulders as he takes a good look at her.

“I know she also loves you, too as she smiled even wider when you walked over.” Bill couldn’t help but smile back in response. “You got there just in time. We can’t keep doing this, Bill. They can’t keep doing this.”

“I know, and they’re not going to. Everything ends right here and now. I told Alycia to do whatever it takes and I’ll make sure she’s covered. She’s not letting any of them slip through the cracks.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwmzoD8BKOB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Tuesday, April 23 – Golf Course in Dawsonville, Georgia

“Are you sure you’re fine with this?” Chase questions as they get in the golf cart together. He appreciated her show of support for him, and wanting to stay interlocked together, but it was only 48 hours removed from what happened.

“Absolutely,” Sarina replies as she gets comfortable with a glance over at him. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else then with my husband.” She then reaches over, clutching his hand with hers. “You make me feel safe. I know when I’m with you, I don’t need to worry because you’ll do whatever it takes for me, as you promised. I need that right now, Chase.”

“We could go home in cudd-”

“And make you change your plans because of me? That’s not happening.” He practically lets out a sigh, actually surprised by the tone of her response. While they wanted to seamlessly move forward from what happened just like that after being released from the hospital that morning, that wasn’t reality.

“There’s a lot that has happened. I’m just saying it may be better if we both go home and cuddle together, maybe with Abigail.” He then looks over into her blue eyes. “I care about you. I want to be there for you. I want to be comfort you. I want to help-”

“You are helping me, but giving me a day out in the fresh air where I don’t need to think about what happened. I can handle this, Chase.” Though that brought up the other half of the equation in this situation. “Are you sure that you can handle this?”

“When I said that I was feeling much better this morning, I meant it. I’m not feeling a single ill-effect from what happened.” He then drives out down the course road, reaching the first hole of the day.

“Chas-”

“If it starts to bother me, I’ll call it quits early, okay?” She nods her head accepting. She then watches him get off the golf kart, grabbing the club of choice. “Are you sure you don’t want to play?” She shakes her head no as she relaxes back on the golf cart.

“I tried it one time. I figured it’d be relaxing. I instead knocked the snot out of the ball and it went nowhere close to where it should.” Chase had to chuckle in response, remembering some of his own frustrating shots.

“I could show you, and help you be a much better player.” She shakes her head no, knowing exactly what she had in store for the day. She knew of a way to subside the rest of her thoughts – as long as he was up to it.

“Trust me – I’m fine with the view that I am getting to enjoy through this. Let’s just say that I’ll be the best caddy you’ve ever seen if required – with the only payment being required being the views I get.” Chase just rolls his eyes, but was willing to play it up as he gave his butt a little shake as he walked away. “That’s right, Clyde…”

They then spent the afternoon going through the course, as she enjoyed the view at each of the holes, from the toned muscular arms to the ass that she couldn’t take her eyes off in those shorts. She certainly knew that was she spoiled – and each view gave her a reminder that he could offer the security and safety that she required at that moment. While everybody dubbed her as Ms. Strong Independent Woman, there was no way that she’d been able to take the first step today without him by her side.

Tuesday, April 23 – Dawsonville, Georgia

Sarina stands in the doorway, smiling as Chase gives Abigail one final kiss, before switching on the night light by the crib. She then watches as he turns off the main light, before catching her eyes.

“How long have you been standing there?” Chase wonders as Sarina just shrugs her shoulders.

“Long enough,” she replies as she clutches her hand with his own. “I heard what you said to her. I heard the promise that you made to her to protect her and her mommy. I heard how you felt bad for what happened. Chase, I told you, it’s not your fault.” Chase nods his head, remembering the constant repetition of the phrase from his dad and Sarina.

“I just hate that I wasn’t here for you. I just hate that I couldn’t have been here to stop it from happening.” He then runs his fingers along her cheek, brushing her hair off of her face. “I just hate to think about you going through that. I can’t even imagine…”

“Then don’t imagine it because it’s 10 times worse than I could even begin to describe to you right now.” She then feels a couple tears trickle down her cheeks as she turns around, facing their bedsroom. “It’s worse that he did it here, in our own house. This is our place and he came in here and did that..”

“I know…” He then wraps both arms around her shoulders, letting her lean back against him for support. “It disgusts me to think about it.”

“I think about all the positives that lie in that room. I think about all the fun memories that we’ve made together – even the smallest things, too. And I can’t bear to think of opening that door and taking a step inside.” Chase could easily understand that, remembering his own nerves returning to the No. 9 hauler and Alison’s actions there didn’t even compare to what Carter had put Sarina through.

“We don’t need to go in ther-”

“Then where are we going to sleep tonight?” He turns her around, facing the spare bedsroom across the hall that they had for when guests stayed over. “We can’t just keep sleeping in there forever, Chase.”

“I’m not saying that you need to do that, Sarina. I’m just suggesting to do tonight. It’s your first night home since what happened. You don’t need to do everything at once, sweetheart. One step at a time, one day at a time – slowly move forward.” He then spins her around so that way he could look right into her eyes. “You’ve been absolutely amazing. You stood strong to spend the day with me at the golf course. You stood strong to be there for our daughter tonight, not even giving her a hint that something had happened. I know you’re strong and can handle anything, but don’t be afraid to lean on me, and let me help you. Don’t be afraid to take a step back..”

“I don’t know if I can ever go in there, though…” He wipes the stray tear off of her cheek, not letting his gaze leave her eyes in the process.

“Order a new bed set and I’ll throw out every piece that’s in there – the bear, the pillows, the blankets – and put that on. Pick a new color for the room and I’ll get it painted. I’m willing to do whatever it takes so you don’t go down that road again. If it comes down to it, we can move if it makes it easier on you.” She started chuckling in response.

“You can’t be serious….” The return glance on his face told her otherwise. “This is our dream house, Chase. We both said that when we moved in here together and built that nursery.”

“Things and dreams sometimes change, and I’m certain we can find a new place if need be that we’d love just as much to raise our daughter and family in. Look, I’m just telling you that I’m willing to do whatever it takes to help you get through this – whether it’s re-decorating, moving, holding you, cuddling you, listening to you, letting your vent, or watching you cry, I will do whatever it takes for you because I know that you can move forward. I know that we can make things okay again. We’re going to get through this, Sarina. You’re a fighter and you’ve come too far to let this end differently.” She looks down at their hands, seeing them clutched together as her eyes focus on the pink diamond on her finger.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you. I love you….” She then lets herself fall right against him in his arms, letting a couple of tears that she’d been holding in throughout the day finally fall as he leads her across the hall into the spare bedsroom. “I don’t even kno-”

“Sssh, it’s okay…” He lies on the bed, letting her easily lay against him. “Just let it out. Let it go…”