I’m looking for some writers to join me on the site so we can add some flavor – say a new perspective.
So what do you say? Shoot me an e-mail at sunsetinformative@yahoo.com if interested!
Chapter #: 40
Chapter Title: Home
Story: The Pregnancy
Characters: Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Danica Patrick, Bev Patrick
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.
Mid March 2014 – Their House, Post-Bristol Sunday, Danica’s POV
Thank you – we’re home. We’re away from all that craziness and don’t have to deal with it. Now it’s back to Ricky and I, and the baby and the wedding. It can’t get better than that, now can it?
“I can’t believe he did that,” I let out again to Ricky as we lay in bed cuddling. I still can’t believe Kyle spun him out after the race. Like, how do you do that after what was hard clean short track racing? And then to start a fight? Well, that’s typical Kyle. We know that. But still! You don’t do that shit!
“I can believe he did it,” he tells me and I guess I can. I mean, Kyle is known for a bit of a temper. “I just can’t believe that I stooped to his level.” Yeah, that was shocking but do I honestly blame Ricky? I mean, he was frustrated and mad. That equals wanting to lash out – we all know that. I’ve done it myself. “I’m sorry.” He then kisses my cheek and I just smile. At least I’m alright. That’s all that matters.
“It wasn’t your fault.” It’s not like he started the fight, right?
“Yeah, but I should have stopped as soon as I saw you there.” Why? What makes me special?
“He would have just made some snarky comment anyway and got me mad and I would have gone after him.” It’s true. I was thinking of punching Kyle. “You don’t want me doing that, now do you?”
“No, because I want you to take care of that little one.” Ahh, caring considering Ricky is back. Bristol is now a distant memory. I feel jump a little as he’s rubbing my stomach and I just laugh. Yes, the baby just kicked. Yes, he probably just felt it. “Did she just kick daddy?” I laugh as I see the shock on his face. “So that’s how you feel about this, little one?”
“She was just saying hello daddy.” I doubt she was kicking him for fighting, but who knows. Maybe she’s mad too. “The look on your face was priceless. She’s been kicking a bit throughout the weekend.”
“It feels so weird.” How do you think I feel then? “But it’s wonderful.” He then kisses my lips once again and all I can do is respond in return. How did I get so lucky to have a fiancé as great as him?
“I love you, Ricky.” Wrapping an arm around back me, hand on my stomach, I smile. This is the life. This is what it’s all about. No matter what happens on the weekend, we have each other and oh, a little minny me. I hear my phone go off and roll my eyes as Ricky reaches over and grabs it. Who’s calling us this late at night?
“Hello?” He answers it as I glance towards him. “Oh hey Bev. How are you?” Great. My mother. I wonder what she wants at 10 o’ clock at night. “Yeah, she’s fine. She’s just laying here cuddling with me. Nothing to worry about.” Did she see what happened? Oh crap! “Yeah, I just lost it and was mad. It never occurred to me that you know, she was standing there and I felt really bad afterwards, my fault or not. Just glad Tony caught her.” I guess she saw what happened. Get ready for the over conscious comments…..now. “Well I respect your opinion; I promise you that it won’t happen again. It was a one-time deal that, trust me, I don’t want to repeat. There’s always wives at the track who are pregnant and you don’t see shit happening.” Like I said, over-concerned mother. She’s probably telling Ricky that she doesn’t want me at the track anymore with him while I’m pregnant, as she did during Christmas holidays. It seems just as Ricky and I are starting to win her over, something happens. “She wants to talk to you, Danica.” He hands me the phone and I roll my eyes. Can’t I just have sleep?
“Hi mom,” I tell her as I take the phone from him. “How are you?”
“I’m fine babygirl but how are you?” She asks and yes, concerned mother is here at our service. “I saw what happened and I was worried sweetie.”
“I’m fine mo-”
“But what if you weren’t?” Why does she do this? Ricky and I have already talked about that.
“Listen, like Ricky said, it was a one-time thing and it won’t happen again as we both regret it. I shouldn’t have gone out to pit road when he was mad and he knows he shouldn’t have been fighting with Kyle.”
“But what if it does? I don’t want anything happening to my grandbaby.” Do you think Ricky and I do either? Geez!
“Mom, I’m fin-”
“You shouldn’t be going to the tracks. You should be staying home with either Brooke or I.” What about Stacey? What about being there to support Ricky? What about it driving me nuts when I’m not around him? Doesn’t she understand these feelings?
“Mom, I’m fine by going to the trac-”
“No you are not as you saw what happened today. What if Tony didn’t catch you?” Then I would have fallen on my ass and been bitching about being in pain. My fault, right? Like I said, I should have left Ricky be as Hayley suggested.
“Then I would have fallen and been sor-”
“And you can’t take those chances sweetie.” Shake my head, just about done with her. Why does she want to tell me how to live my life?
“Mom, it’s my life so please stop telling me how to live it. All that matters is that I and the baby are okay and we’re moving on past Bristol. Can we just move on and forget that it happened?” Trust me, we’ll never forget it happened. The minute Ricky and Kyle are side-by-side at a future race, it’ll come back to everybody’s minds. The media will make sure of it. “Anyways, I was hoping to talk to you about my wedding.” So I haven’t told her yet the plan for the wedding that Ricky and I have. Considering she’s traditional in liking big church weddings, she may bitch about that, too.
“Oh sweetie, you shouldn’t be worrying about that. You should be worrying about the baby. You can worry about the wedding once you have the baby.” And why? Planning the wedding doesn’t seem to be bugging me in a bad way. Actually, it’s kind of calming as it gives me something to do when I’m bored trying to keep my feet up.
“But mom, Ricky and I want to get married this December. We have told you that already. And don’t worry, wedding planning doesn’t bug baby. I’m enjoying it. I just wanted to tell you that we’re getting married in North Carolina. We’re actually going down a non-traditional route.” Here goes nothing. Please don’t kill me, mom.
“What do you mean non-traditional route? Of course you’re not wearing white because you’re no virgin!” Ouch. That hits the core a little harder than I thought.
“What does that matter as I haven’t even thought about the dress yet? I was going to think about that after I had the baby.” So trying on dresses while pregnant isn’t the best idea, we’ve all determined. I’ll just shrink after and totally look different anyway. So we’re going to go dress shopping either late summer or early fall, as per my discussions with Brooke, Hayley and Stacey.
Considering it’s a winter country wedding, we were thinking maybe a blue dress to go with Ricky’s blue shirt that I had thought of. Oh, maybe I should tell Ricky about the idea of not going all suit style. See, country wedding idea has me thinking that we’ll dress the guys up as cowboys and the bridesmaids can have some country style-twist to their dresses. Anyways, back to what I was telling my mom….
“Actually, this does with the setting,” I start carefully as I glance towards Ricky. “We’re not going to do it in a church. Ricky and I talked about it and we want to do a winter farm wedding. So he asked a friend of his and she said we could use her farm.” I’m not about to tell my mom about his relationship of horse riding at Taylor’s and all that. She’ll just get thoughts of her own.
“That’s no way to have a wedding. What is this guy doing to you?” Seriously? She is blaming him totally when it was my idea?
“It was my ide-”
“He’s turning my little girl into some country girl.” And what’s wrong with that? I like the boots, I like the hat – it has a nice style to it. Might I add, Miranda Lambert also has some nice tunes for listening to.
“And I have no problem with it, mom. I love it. It’s what partly drew me to him and I have no objections. Plus, it’s my wedding – my life – my decisions. This is my second wedding and with it being Ricky’s first, I want him to have it his way perfect. I hope you’ll be there to support us. Love you and I’m going to sleep now. Goodbye Mom.” Not hearing another word – probably shocked still – I hang up and hand Ricky my phone so he can put it back on charge. I guess we’re back at square one with my mom, right?
Chapter #: 2
Chapter Title: Worries
Story: Meeting the Parents
Characters: Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Trevor Bayne, Ashton
Author’s Note: So thanks once again to @sannie_re on solving the Ricky’s mom question haha Now this story is going to become a little more fun. And oh, by the way, this may become longer than the original five chapters haha We’ll see how it goes. Oh and yes, Bev Patrick is on twitter. I saw one of Danica’s retweets J
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.
February 2013 – Daytona International Speedway – Tuesday Morning
After feeling worried by Danica’s news about meeting the parents, Ricky decided it was best to consult in his best friend – Trevor. No matter how much he convinced himself that it would be alright, he couldn’t get over feeling nervous. What if they didn’t like him?
Ricky walked inside Trevor’s motorcoach, shutting the door behind him. He had texted Trevor a couple minutes prior, saying that he wanted to talk about things. Trevor was worried by the text that Danica and Ricky were already having problems. Despite some initial thoughts about the relationship, he knew they were right for each other and that it would probably work out. However, part of him was still worried.
“So how’s paradise?” Trevor asked as Ricky sat down, knowing that they might as well get to the point. “What is going on that has you wanting to come see me?”
“Danica’s parents are coming down for the week and she wants me to meet them,” Ricky replied as Trevor sat back, thinking it over. The pair had been officially dating a month and by Trevor’s standards, that was entering meet the parents phase. However, he understood the nerves considering Danica’s previous relationship. “She told me last night and I just feel nervous about it. What if they don’t like me?”
“Why wouldn’t they like a great guy like you?” Ricky shrugged his shoulders at the thought, not able to think of a reason himself. It wasn’t that he thought he was perfect, but there was nothing that stood out that was dislikeable. It wasn’t like he had slept around before or was ignorant.
“I don’t know, but I just worry about it. I mean, what if I’m not the type of the guy they expect?” Trevor sat back, thinking those words over. Danica seemed to be a high-fashion, somewhat fancy type of girl by what he had seen. That was one of the smaller concerns he had originally about the relationship when Ricky told him. Though, he also knew about her previous husband and some factoids on him.
“Listen, they know you’re not that high class fancy if that is what you mean. Her mom follows you on twitter so she knows that. If she had a problem with you in that way, she probably would’ve already told Danica.” Ricky remembered when he noticed that her mom was following him, but instantly shrugged it off without another thought. He did, though, follow her back to be respectful.
“Yeah, that’s true.” Trevor then sat beside Ricky, patting his knee, knowing his buddy needed to hear this.
“Listen, stop worrying and just act natural when they show up and don’t think a second thought about it. They’ll like you so you got nothing to worry about.” Ricky then smiled as hearing those words from Trevor, it seemed to put him at ease rather quickly.
“Thanks buddy.” Trevor then threw him a Wii controller, grabbing one of his own as he knew what they needed to do. With Ricky spending a lot of time with Danica, they hadn’t had their time together in a long time. Switching on the console, Ricky knew exactly what Trevor was up to as he shook his head. It seemed when they were hanging out, they couldn’t pass up some type of competition.
“You’re not getting out of here without at least one game. And we’re playing Just Dance so I can kick your ass this time.” Ricky laughed as he thought back to New Years in how he royally schooled Trevor’s ass at the game with his bunch of random crazy moves. The alcohol in his system may have influenced that a little, though. “You game?”
“Any day, any time, any place. Just get ready to cry when I beat you. I’ve been practicing, by the way.” Trevor looked back at Ricky, disbelief written on his face.
“You’ve been kissing too much to have time to practice.” Ricky blushed at the comment, causing Trevor to laugh.
“I love her, man. What’s wrong with that?” The boys then began to set up the game as Trevor’s fiancé Ashton came out of the bedsroom, shaking her head.
“There’s nothing wrong with a little love.” Trevor then wrapped his arm around Ashton, giving her a kiss. “Have you come to be my cheerleader?” Ricky rolled his eyes as he watched them flirt.
Chapter #: 15
Chapter Title: Talladega
Story: Like Father, Like Daughter
Characters: Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tony Stewart, Ron Malec
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.
Talladega Speedway – Saturday Night
Dale sat there, outside the motorcoach, overlooking the night sky. Tomorrow marked the second plate race of the season and after what happened at Daytona, he had some mixed emotions going into it. What if Angelica got herself involved in another wreck? What if he got himself involved in one of the ugly wrecks the track is famous for?
“Hey, are you okay?” Dale heard as he looked over to see Tony had made his way over to where he was laying on the grass. Tony sat down, carefully, eyes focused on Dale as he tried to read his mind. “What are you thinking about?” Dale scooted closer to Tony, laying his head on Tony’s legs as Tony smiled, brushing his hair.
“Tomorrow,” Dale simply answers as he knew Tony would understand what he was talking about.
“It’ll be fine. Daytona was just a freak incident.” Tony kissed Dale’s head, continuing to run his fingers through his hair, wanting to offer whatever comfort possible. “I love you. Why don’t you come in to bed?”
“Guess I better.” Tony smiles as he stands up first, before holding out his hand for Dale. He helped him up and they both retreated inside of the motorcoach. “Chelsea still won’t sleep?”
“Me no sleep daddy,” Chelsea spoke as Dale sat down beside her, looking up at Lindsay, before turning his eyes back down to his youngest daughter.
“Why not?” Dale asked as he wrapped an arm around her. He knew that she hadn’t been feeling well lately, but that was besides the point. “You need to sleep so you can watch Daddy, Uncle Tony and sissy race tomorrow.”
“Can I sit in sissy car temarrow?”Dale smiled as she found her way to say the word, though also knowing that Angelica would let her sit in the car. It had become a bit of sister tradition between them.
“Of course, but only if you go to bed like a good little girl.” Chelsea then pouted as she shifted herself on to Dale’s lap, leaning against him.
“But daddy, me tummy no feel good.”
“She was sleeping, but woke up when she had to puke in the toilet,” Lindsay explains as she sits on the coach opposite to them.
“Mommy give me gaavooo,” Chelsea comments as they all laugh slightly, knowing she meant gravol. She had come down with a small case of the stomach flu and it was bugging her as much as it could.
“Well that should make your tummy feel better so you can sleep,” Dale commented as he grabbed her blanket, wrapping it around her.
“You need to sleep so we can all sleep and then maybe daddy can win tomorrow,” Tony suggested as he leaned against the kitchen counter, watching and smiling. He couldn’t believe how close he had grown with Dale over the past five years, but also with Lindsay and Chelsea.
“Daddy sleep with me?” Chelsea then asked to their surprise, with a slight pout.
“Of course,” Dale told her as he let her up so he could lay back, before she laid down, tucked up close to him. He knew he couldn’t say no to her no matter how hard he tried.
“Night babes,” Tony said as he gave Dale a kiss and Dale smiled.
“Night Tony.”
“Night Chelsea.” Tony then gave Chelsea a kiss on the cheek before heading back to the bedsroom.
“Goodnight,” Lindsay told them both and joined Tony after giving them a small kiss.
“Guess it’s just us,” Tony commented as Lindsay smiled, climbing in beside him.
“When Chelsea wants something, she knows how to convince Daddy to get her way. And I don’t mind your company anyway.”
“Really?” Tony then gave her a kiss, before pulling the blanket over them both.
“I’ve grown used to your sexiness.” Lindsay then moved closer to him, laying her head on his chest. “Sorry but I like to be cuddled at night.” Tony smiled as he wrapped an arm around her, not fighting it one bit. It was that odd special factor in their relationship.
“Night Linds. Sweet dreams.”
*****
Dale walks Chelsea down pit road, knowing that he has to hold true to his word.
“Go get your sister!” He tells her as he lets go of her hand, about 10 steps away from Angelica. Chelsea was getting really good at walking and it always brought smiles to see do some on her own without holding on to anything.
“Come here Cheeseball!” Angelica said as she noticed Chelsea coming near her, smile crossing her face. She had called Chelsea since she was a baby since she was chubby and loved cheese – it seemed perfect. Chelsea successfully made her way over, grabbing on to Angelica’s leg.
“I sit in sissy car?” She asked as Dale smiled, making his way over.
“She wouldn’t sleep last night so I told her if she went to sleep like a good little girl, she could sit in your car,” Dale explained as Angelica smiled in return.
“She can sit in my car anyday!” Angelica commented as she picked Chelsea up putting her in the seat. Chelsea stood there, smiling, as she held on to the wheel. As they watched Chelsea together, Angelica wrapped her arm around her dad, knowing what he was thinking. “It’s going to be okay today. Relax.” She then kissed her dad’s cheek with a smile.
“I’m going to believe you.” They both then looked into the car, smiling as Chelsea made car noises. “Think she’ll be a racer like you?”
“It wouldn’t surprise any of us,” they both heard and Angelica smiled as she recognized the voice, knowing it to be her crew chief, Ron Malec.
“I’m waiting for you when you start getting her go-kart racing,” Angelica commented as Dale shook his head.
“I’m scared to start her off too young,” Dale said.
“I want to go fast!” Chelsea then exclaimed as they all smiled.
“One day sweetie, one day. But you have to come out now so sissy can race.”
“Sissy gonna win!” Dale then pulled her out of the car, smiling as he looked towards Angelica.
“That’s what sissy wants to do,” Angelica replied as she gave Chelsea a quick kiss. “I promise to be careful, Daddy.”
“Sissy gonna beat daddy!” Chelsea then commented as they all laughed.
“We’ll see,” Dale said before walking away with Chelsea as Angelica leaned back against her car.
“Is he wor-” Ron then started as Angelica looked towards him.
“A little,” she cut him off knowing the question. Ron then wrapped an arm around Angelica as they both watched Dale and Chelsea head back down pit road to Lindsay.
“It’ll be fine. You won’t repeat Daytona.” She shook her head yes as she believed those words also. But in the back of her mind, she asked herself a couple times – what if?
Chapter #: 26
Chapter Title: Indy Fest
Story: Love Through Tragedy
Characters: James Hinchcliffe, Kurt Busch, Holly Wheldon, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Michael Andretti
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.
Friday – Indy Fan Fest
Credit: @FollowAndretti
“I can’t believe they convinced you to do this,” Holly commented as James laughed, slipping into a t-shirt and shorts. How he ended up in the dunk tank was beyond him.
“I just hope the water is somewhat warm,” James commented as he peaked outside to see they had set up the dunk tank. It had been talked about for a couple of days, but it was now reality. He was going in the dunk tank and fans, crews and drivers alike were going to take their best shot. “Or they all miss. I guess the second is rather likely.” Holly shook her head, still in disbelief, as James heard his phone going off, picking it up off the table.
From: Kurt
To: Hinch
Hey! Are you going to make it to Darlington tonight?
James looked down as he knew with the interviews earlier, IndyFest and Carlos’ rookie session tomorrow, that it’d be tight making it for tomorrow night.
From: Hinch
To: Kurt
Can’t. Obligations. Going to go for tomorrow after Carlos’ rookie session
From: Kurt
To: Hinch
Understand. Tell Carlos good luck and hope you make it out of there to come. Car is fast.
From: Hinch
To: Kurt
Hope I can to man and good luck in qualifying!
Holly only glanced up when she heard the door open, smiling as Michael was standing there.
“Are you ready to face the cold water?” Michael asks as he stands there, shaking his head.
“Nobody is dunking me in,” James replies as he glances down at his phone again.
From: Kurt
To: Hinch
Thanks! Oh, and my brother and his wife want to meet you 
From: Hinch
To: Kurt
Sounds like a plan. I’m going to try and get there before the race for sure.
“Nobody is going to have the aim to do it,” James adds as Michael shakes his head. He already knew there was someone in particular who wanted to dunk James.
“And what if someone does?” Holly asks as she puts James’ phone in her pocket as they walk outside.
“I know someone who will,” Michael told her with a wink as they watched James get set up inside the dunk tank.
“Who? You can tell me.”
“Is this water cold?” James asked as he dipped his toes in, shivering slightly. It was nothing he wasn’t used to, but it was still cold.
A bunch of fans took their shot, some having success and some not. Either way, James kept his smile on about it, telling them all they were great.
“Are you ready to be dunked?” James heard, recognizing the voice as he looked up from the water. Seeing his teammate standing there, he shook his head.
“Ryan?” Holly asked Michael as Michael just smiled, crossing his arms.
“I had to take my own shot,” Ryan commented to Holly before turning back to James.
“And what says you’ll dunk me?” James retorted as he knew he was in trouble. From a couple games they had played goofing around, Ryan did have a good arm.
“You know that I can dunk you.” James crossed his arms, as he was ready to put up a little retort towards his teammate.
“I tell you what. You dunk me or else I am putting you in here to get dunked by me.”
“That’s a fair deal,” Michael commented as Ryan looked towards Michael, shocked. “What? There’s nothing wrong with that. Plus, I’m sure we have a change of clothes if you’re afraid of getting wet. Holly may have a dress for you to wear.” James and Holly both laughed as Ryan shook his head, not believing them.
“He’s getting it now and even though you’re the boss, look out,” Ryan said. “I will get you back for that.”
“You couldn’t hit the target even if it was right in front of you,” James teased as Michael shook his head, ready to watch this one go down. “You just want revenge for the picture. Let’s face it. Maybe I should get Holly to twee….” Instantly, the ball hit the button and the seat dropped and James fell in the water as Ryan stood there with a smile on his face. Ryan, turned around, hearing the fans cheer as James climbed his way out of the water, back on his seat.
“Nice job Ryan,” Holly said as she gave him a hug.
“And now you’re off the hook,” Michael added as they all looked back towards James. “Was that water colder than you expected?”
“He used the coldness,” Ryan commented before walking over and giving his teammate a high five.
“I knew I was in trouble when it was you standing there,” James told him and Ryan smiled.
“They told you there was someone who could dunk you. I guess you never expected it to be me.”
“Payback is a bitch Ryan.” Ryan then laughed as he walked away while James turned his attention to the next person ready to throw.
The next day with Carlos went well as they were able to give him enough advice and he showed the right amount of speed to pass the rookie orientation program. With Carlos being done earlier than expected, James knew he had more than enough time to get to Darlington.
Chapter #: 39
Chapter Title: Relief
Story: The Pregnancy
Characters: Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Danica Patrick, Hayley Moore, Stacey Stenhouse, Tony Stewart, Tony Gibson, Kyle Busch, Joe Gibbs, Mike Helton
Link To Other Chapters
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.
Mid March 2014 – Bristol Motor Speedway, Sunday, Ricky’s POV
Breathe, breathe, breathe. Count to 10. Baby is okay and it was just a scare. We were just warned to not do that again and trust me, I don’t want to do that again. I shouldn’t had gone after Kyle like I did and I should’ve kept her away right when I knew she was there no matter what Kyle was saying. She should be my number one responsibility instead of stooping that low and trying to kick his ass. Karma will come back and bite him in the ass, too.
Feel her arm wrap around me as we head back to the motorcoach lot and I know that can’t be my destination. NASCAR wants to discuss what happened on pit road with us. Can you see that conversation going well? It’s not like Kyle and I really want to see each other right now and Tony is no help.
“Why don’t you like Danica head back with Stacey and you go see NASCAR as you’ve been instructed ” Hayley suggests and I roll my eyes. I feel like being stubborn like a little kid. This is going to be just a waste of time.
“I’ll take care of her, Ricky,” Stacey assures me and I know she will. I just don’t want to go see Kyle. “You go deal with them.”
“Do I have to?” I wine in protest because frankly, I don’t want to go. “Kyle is just going to be an ass.”
“If you don’t go, you’re going to make Mike very mad,” Hayley comments and she’s probably right. Mike is probably fuming that I am late. “I don’t need my driver getting into trouble.”
“Go Ricky.” Danica instructs and by the tone of her voice, I better listen. She doesn’t sound like she’s messing around. I give her a quick kiss before walking away, knowing that this isn’t going to be pretty. “Good luck.”
“Is Kyle really going to be an ass?” I hear Stacey as I walk away and by those words, I know that I had a chance of avoiding this. My sister would side with me, right?
Shake my head as I walk into the trailer and follow the instructions given to head into Mike’s office. I’ve only been here a couple times before and it’s gone rather smooth. Can I have the same luck tonight, please?
“Where have you been?” I hear Tony Gibson comment as he looks up at me and my eyes turn to shock. Did he not see Danica almost fall and the concern we had? Geez! Oh, fyi, Stewart is getting a hug when this is over.
“I was at the care center making sure that Danica was alright,” I reply as I take my seat, ready for whatever the boss man has to say.
“Is she okay?” Oh so now he’s concerned!
“Yeah, she’s fine.”
“Good to hear.” Turn my eyes to Mike, ready for whatever words he has to say.
“Before you begin, sir, I am sorry for fighting with Kyle.” My idea is to take the soft approach in hopes that I will get out of here sooner. Oh, and the lessen the punishment.
“That’s not something that Ricky normally does either.” Thank you Gibson for pleading my case!
“So because he normally doesn’t fight you want him to get off with what he did?” I hear and look up to see Joe Gibbs standing there. Well, at least I am better behaved than his drivers. Let’s face it. He’s dealing with one of them every couple of weeks.
“Ricky is just apologizing because he’s sorry, not to try and weasel his way out of this,” I hear and look up to see Tony Stewart standing above me. When did he show up?
“Well I’m sorry to and I’m glad that Danica is okay,” Kyle says and I just roll my eyes. Not up for apologies right now. It doesn’t take back what you did after the race, the comments after or the first shove. Let’s face it – every shove afterwards was in my defense. “I know it doesn’t take anything away from what I did, but I just wanted to say that.”
“They both said sorry – can we go?” I laugh before biting my tongue, enjoying Tony’s sense of urgency. He feels exactly like I do.
“Yes you both may go,” Mike starts as he looks down at his desk and back up to us. “There is no need for retaliation on track afterwards or shoving. You can trade words, but not hands and legs. Expect a fine and probation for you, Busch, for your part in what you did on and off track. Ricky, expect probation for you. I also suggest that you both mine your Ps an Qs as you saw what could have happened tonight due to your behavior.” Great – probation. That wonderful warning system that locks you in the penalty box for a couple of weeks. Remind me to stay away from Kyle for those weeks. Though Mike is right – we need to behave and think big picture. What if Danica had been hurt? I don’t think I could have handled that.
“Thank you sir,” Stewart says as we all get up and leave.
I follow both my crew chief and owner through the garage area afterwards towards where the motorcoaches are, silent. I am wondering if either will have words for me. Think either of them will yell about what happened?
“You obviously know that what you did was wrong,” I hear Stewart start as I look towards him. I told you this was coming. “But I don’t blame you for standing up for yourself.” I smile as I should’ve known he would say something like that. He’s done it plenty of times himself. “Just try to not do that from now on. You’re a clean cut kid and people respect you for that.”
“Tony is right as if you start making enemies, it’ll just get harder,” Gibson adds and I can’t help but agree with them. I know from my short track days that lesson all too well. That’s why I’ve always tried to keep my nose clean.
“I understand that all too well,” I tell them both. “It was just an instance of frustration.” I then wave to them both goodbye, walking inside the motorcoach, ready to spend some time with Danica. I just want to forget about Bristol and move on.
Chapter #: 26
Chapter Title: Media
Story: Crushin’ in the Fast Lane
Characters: Brad Keselowski, Paul Wolfe, Jenna Fryer, Marty Smith
Author’s Note: So Jeremy is worse than Paul, eh? It seems Brad has his hands full….
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended
February – Phoenix – Friday – 2014
Brad sits in the media center, ready to take questions as he knows what they will be about. Already given his thoughts on the upcoming Cup qualifying session and practice, he knew where the questions were headed.
“Jenna Fryer, Associated Press,” he heard as he focused his eyes on Jenna. “It seems you’ve developed a relationship with Penske’s Nationwide Series rookie Rebecca Steelman.” Brad took a deep breath, wanting to listen to the advice of many in remaining positive with his answers.
“Yes we have developed a relationship,” he started. “She’s a great young girl and I am enjoying getting to know her.”
“How do you think she will do this weekend at Phoenix?” Brad thought back to practice in how she had timed in 12th while he was second to Kyle Busch. She wasn’t doing bad so far..
“She should do good this weekend. She was quick in practice and no doubt I see her having a solid top 10 finish.”
“Marty Smith, ESPN,” Brad heard and smiled as he looked towards Marty. Marty normally asked good solid questions. “Do you see the rivalry continuing with you and the 48?”
Back in the motorcoach, Rebecca smiled as she watched the live feed on NASCAR Online of the press conference. Brad was doing a good job so far in handling things and they seemed to have changed the topic. Maybe their success on track was doing more talking than expected.
“What are you so happy about?” She heard, catching her out of her gaze as she looked up to see Paul standing there. When did Brad’s crew chief show up? She pointed to the press conference as she watched Paul sit on the couch beside her.
“They aren’t bugging about Brad and I and they’re talking about the race weekend,” she told him as she felt a sort of uncomfortable feeling come over her.
“Well, that’s good news indeed. Oh, I came by to tell you that Cup qualifying starts in about 20 minutes. I didn’t want you to miss it.” He knew that she would probably want to come out and watch Brad.
“Thanks.” She smiled as she closed her laptop, standing up. Considering where the relationship had started, she was glad that Paul was being nice. “I’m just going to change out of this suit and then I’ll be out on pit road. Got the car adjusted for a pole run?”
“Of course!” He then watched her get up and retreat to the back of the motorcoach, door closing behind her. She came out five minutes later, changed into a pair of black jeans and pink tank top.
“Very pretty Ms. Steelman.” He then smiled as he stood up, ready to leave. He had done his duty for the day and it was a start to being nice after everything.
“Thank you Mr. Wolfe. And I wouldn’t expect you to not have that car dialed in.” She then grabbed her sneakers out of the cupboard, slipping them on.
“Rebecca, I have something to say before I leave. I’m sorry for the way I treated you last week. I should never have said what I said.” He then turned, opening the door to leave as she thought over his words. She wanted to believe his sincere apology and what he was saying. However, what if he was doing it because Brad told him to?
“Paul! Thanks for the apology.” She then gave him a wave as he left, and then grabbed her hair brush off of the counter, quickly brushing her hair.
Brad did well in qualifying as he would grab the pole for Sunday’s Cup race. As Rebecca and Brad walked back to the motorcoach together, it seemed everything was perfect. Rebecca was in good spirits with how she was running, Brad was running, the latest words from the media and Paul’s behavior. Maybe everybody was willing to accept them.
Well, what do you make of Paul’s apology?
Chapter #: 14
Chapter Title: Nightmares
Story: Like Father, Like Daughter
Characters: Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tony Stewart
Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. This is a matter of fiction, not specifically true events, though sometimes based on true events. No money is being made from this work. No copyright infringement is intended.
Mid April – Kansas -Saturday Night
Dale opened his eyes, sitting straight up in the bed as he wiped his eyes. How could he even think back to that? How was that even fair?
“Dale, are you okay?” He heard, causing him to look over and see Lindsay’s eyes open with the moonlight shining in as their eyes met.
“What’s going on?” Another voice perked up as Tony sat up in the bed, to see what the noise was about.
“I felt him jump up quick and it woke me up.”
“I’m fine…” Dale let out as he laid back down, staring at the ceiling.
“Are you sure?” Lindsay asked, still concerned. It wasn’t like Dale to do that in the middle of the night. They had gotten used to being able to lay comfortably together.
“Positive.” Though both Lindsay and Tony knew he was lying as they saw the tears trickling down his face.
“Did you have a nightmare?” Lindsay had grown used to his nightmares before in times shortly after they had dealt with things. However, in the past couple of years, they had subsided.
“You can tell us,” Tony added as he felt his heart turn to instant worry.
“I can’t get over those text messages,” Dale let out quietly as he knew he couldn’t lie to either of them. “I’m afraid. I don’t want to go back down that road.”
“You won’t because I won’t let anyone hurt you, ever.” Dale then turned to Tony, knowing what he wanted more than anything. It had helped numerous times before and he hoped it did again.
“Hold me….please….” Tony instantly did as requested as Lindsay laid on her side, smiling at the pair of them. It didn’t bug her to see them like that as she had grown used to it and grown a strong liking for Tony herself.
“Feel better?” Lindsay asked as Dale snuggled in closer to Tony.
“Yeah a little,” he replied as Tony kept his arms wrapped around Dale, holding him right close.
“I promise to protect you forever,” Tony said outloud before kissing the top of Dale’s head.
Over at Angelica’s motorcoach, she stared at the ceiling. She had tried to get to sleep, but had no luck. She knew that she needed sleep with the race being the next day. However, she just couldn’t find a way to close her eyes. Glancing at her phone, noticing it was 2 in the morning, she wondered where Ashton was. Having wrecked in the race, she was expecting it to be a very long night of dealing with his frustration. Instead, he was no where to be found.
She smiled as she felt her puppy come and lay up beside her in the bed, cuddling into her. She instantly responded, wrapping her arm around the little guy.
“Love you too babes,” she told him as she closed her eyes once again. She was so glad that she had decided to get him from her best friend Demi. Demi had a litter of seven pups – three boys, four girls. She had offered Angelica one and right away, Angelica connected with this little guy. With what she was going through, she was glad to have him near her to give her comfort. It was that shade of comfort that she felt kept her going at times.
“The dog is in the bed again?” She heard, surprised as she recognized the voice right away. When did he get back? “What have I said about tha-”
“He climbed up because I couldn’t get to sleep.” Ashton then climbed in bed beside her as she cringed, scared of what he would do next.
“Well I guess he can stay for one night. You just better be thankful that I had the night that I had.” She rolled her eyes as that thought, knowing that he was probably either out with the crew or some random girl. It just didn’t seem fair with the pain that she felt. Though picking up the pup and putting him on top of the blanket in her lap, she smiled as she was glad that they could sleep together for the night.
“Thanks.” She then rubbed the pup’s back a couple of times before his little quiet snores allowed her to drift asleep.
The race the next day saw all three of them – Tony, Dale and Angelica – not do well. Angelica was out early due to an engine failure while Tony got caught on the wrong strategy and Dale struggled with the handling all day. Though to Steve, Tony and Lindsay, they knew Dale’s problems weren’t just strict to the car. It had been partly due to the lack of sleep the night before.
With a week ahead before the next race, they all hoped that they could comfort his worries and maybe there would be some leads in the case. However, knowing what happened at Daytona and seeing how Talladega was next, they knew that may not be possible.
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