Blinding Lights

CP XIII: Thank You For The Venom

Zipping up the firesuit, Dakota entered the hauler as Ella finished getting dressed for qualifying. She waved 'hello' as he snagged a couple of items for his PR bag. The #20 Toyota Camry had just gone through pre-qual inspection and was all ready to go.

"So, this afternoon after qualifying you've been requested to join Clint Bowyer, Ryan Blaney, and Barstool Sports for a fun Q+A. Casual attire. Beer and snacks will be provided. It'll be over at the Main Stage." Dakota explained.

A quirky grin formed on Ella's face, "Free beer and snacks? Sign me up!"

He pulled out his phone with a chuckle, "Excellent, let me text them before I forget. It sounds like it'll be a lot of fun."

Exiting the hauler, they met up with the crew while they pushed the car onto pit road for qual. Rick was going over his notes, double checking that everything was ready to go. Her crew seemed to be just as excited as she was; sporting big grins, which in turn pumped her up even more. She was ready to kick some ass. Sunlight was pouring down, helping to bring out the natural red and blonde highl;ights in Ella's brown hair that was currently being held up by a loose ponytail.

"I think you're going to do well." Rick chirped.

She nodded in agreement, "I do too. Slept well last night. Hopefully we'll beat the pack."

Not too far away was Denny. His green eyes were full of ambition and determination as he chatted amongst his crew. The rookie was curious on how her mentor would react if he found out that Jones and her were more than just friends at this point. He knew Erik a great deal more than she did, or at least, that's what she hoped.

"Ella."

Spinning around on her heels, Summers came face-to-face with Ryan, "Hey Blaney!" Excited for later?"

"Yeah," They hugged briefly, "We get free beer and snacks. Who wouldn't be?"

"That's what I was saying to Dakota earlier. Gonna try to snag the pole?"

He chuckled, "You better believe it. Hey, what are your plans later?"

She pondered for a second before responding, "I don't think I have any at this point. Why?"

"Days of Thunder. You and me. Sounds like an idea?"

It was a grand idea, Ella thought, "Hell yeah, I'll totally be there."

"Great," Ryan grinned, "I'll chat with you later after qual wraps up."

The Team Penske driver strolled down to his car while Summers regained her focus and mentally prepared. Hamlin had noticed what took place and was curious, but had chosen to chat later. Besides, he didn't want to distract his mentee from having a great lap. So far this season she was doing a great job behind the wheel.

"Alright," Rick glanced over while closing his notes, "Remember we set your car up for long runs. So, that means your qualifying time won't exactly be top-tier. Just keep that in mind for Sunday's run."

"You got it," The rookie gave him a 'thumbs up' before climbing into the car, "I'm expecting a mid-field time, but that doesn't mean I won't push the car as hard as I can. Have three teammates I need to beat."

The answer caused Rick to grin, "Exactly what I like hearing. Go get 'em, kid."

It didn't take long for Ella to gear up and fire the car up. The engine purred as she closed her eyes and hone in on what needed to be accomplished. Clearing out the garbage in her brain, she snapped her eyes open when ready; receiving the word she was good to head onto the track and run her qualifying lap. Roaring to life, the car flew off pit road and onto the track. It felt like lightning inside a bottle; ready to be released. Gaining speed, the car handled each turn with ease. Finishing the warm up lap, it was time to lock things in and go for gold.