Doc Hudson and Miss Nataly drove around town while pointing out the places Radiator Springs has to offer.
"So, could you tell me the history of Radiator Springs?" Nataly asked driving side by side with Doc as he glanced at her, thinking of how a historian writer like herself could be an extraordinary car; He would not lie if he found her attractive... for a 49-year-old car. Doc Hudson has not smiled ever since his younger years as a playboy or even impressed anyone but now, with Nataly's question, he appreciated her curiosity about the history of Radiator Springs since it also has been a while since anyone had a new customer; As they drove along the charming streets, he began recounting the town's story:
"Well, Nataly, Radiator Springs has a rich history that dates back over a century." He paused and turn around to see Nataly intrigued before making a smile of admiration at how he could know the knowledge of the small town, Doc found himself blushing, and he coughs out his nervousness, "The town was founded by a steam car named Stanley on May 9, 1909. Stanley was a visionary who saw potential in this quiet desert town. He believed that the construction of Route 66, a major highway passing through here, would bring life and prosperity to Radiator Springs. Stanley, who was selling radiator caps in Ornament Valley, found an oasis of water, he called it 'Stanley's Oasis'. There, he also found new customers, passing by his fountain so, he decided to build a town here. By naming it, 'Radiator Springs'. Later, Stanley married Lizzie."
This made Nataly blink and gasped, "Wait? The old lady drinking oil, that's-"
"Yes, that's her." Doc responded with a chuckle, and he watched her surprised expression: "My gosh, she must be a strong lady to live longer than she got to meet me." Nataly said.
Continuing with the tour, Nataly's enthusiasm and passion for storytelling were very noticeable to Doc, "As the years went by, Radiator Springs became a popular stop for travelers along Route 66. It thrived with gas stations, diners, and various businesses that catered to the needs of cars passing through. The town flourished, and its streets were bustling with activity."
They cruised by old stores until they notice the " 'Casa Della Tires" shop, where Guido and Luigi were busy with cleaning products to clean up the windows and tires of their shop, Doc and Nataly also notice them and then looked at Doc; Her vibrant energy reminded him of the town's transformation and the unique cars that contributed to its charm after he came into hiding from the world, as he continues showing her more of the town shops around. His deep blue eyes, still gazing briefly met her yellow ones, and he couldn't help but notice the spark of awe in her eyes. Doc continues to show her the other residents' shops such as Military Hut, Organic Oil, Tow Mater's Place, Flo's V8 cafe, Body of Arts, and lastly, Cozy Cone Motel.
Nataly wondered if she saw him as more than just a doctor or a racer, cannot figure it out but, she already knows because he is not willing to tell her or anyone on the matter about his past life since no one is interested in "The Fabulous Hudson Hornet" coming back into the racing life; Recognizing his wisdom and experiences he carried with him back then, she (Nataly) hopes to give Doc some time for him to open up no matter how long it will take. Doc, on the other hand, would not tell a single car until the day he dies:
"However," he continued by avoiding her eyes from his blue ones, "later after the new interstate highway was fixed. It bypassed Radiator Springs, by diverting traffic away from the town. Sadly, the once-thriving community gradually faded into obscurity. Buildings fell into disrepair, businesses closed down, and the town's spirit waned." Nataly listened intently, her eyes lighting up with each detail. Doc could not help but find her presence intriguing, with her deep knowledge of history and her captivating storytelling abilities, "Now half of the residents are empty, no one has ever come here until you came."
Nataly paused a bit and drove in front of him, face-to-face, and tilted her side a bit (it's like tilting your head to the side in car form) Doc Hudson glanced at Nataly, his expression softening as he admired her tenacity. He couldn't deny the interest he felt toward her, but his guarded nature made it difficult for him to reveal his true emotions. In Doc's point of view, he found himself drawn to her curiosity and genuine interest in the history of Radiator Springs, that it left him at ease: "Why was it... y'know, invisible from the world?" She hesitantly asked him.
He blinked, surprised by her question, "...Despite it being 'invisible' as you put it, Miss Adler. Doc says more: "Radiator Springs never lost its spirit completely, the remaining residents, including myself, stayed committed to preserving the town's heritage. Sally promised and is still holding on to making the memories of the town's vibrant past which is the reason that makes us all work hard to keep Radiator Springs." As they continued their drive around the town, Nataly resumed her position beside Doc, and he proceeded with the tale of Radiator Springs that she fell instantly drawn to Doc more than the small town. Nataly nodded, a smile playing on her dermas. (A/N: I had to use a cybertronian dictionary for the story here)
"I see...but it's incredible how you & everyone manage to revive the spirit of this place. The love and passion you poured into restoring Radiator Springs are truly inspiring." She said, making Doc and her pause their drive once more, this time with a look of curiosity, he raise an eyebridge at what Nataly meant, "Why is that, Ms. Adler?" "Well, from what I'm seeing and learning from you. She explains more: "Everyone sees your potential and wisdom tough persona, you might not know this but, you had earned the town's respect. As you had them to hire you as the mayor, and judge, and do not forget that you are Also the CEO of the town."
The words made Doc's face blush redder than Red's paint job, and lighten up a bit, with a hint of pride evident in his expression, "Hmrph! I-I *cough* did not know you can read me so easily." Doc turned to Nataly, his voice cold but more gentle. "Nataly, thank you for showing such interest in Radiator Springs' history. Your enthusiasm and appreciation mean more than you can imagine."
For the first time in his life, someone actually understands his isolation reason but was still wary and unsure if he should trust since it will take a while to let Doc open up about his past, "Ha! I can easily read anyone just by any look but yours... She squinted her yellows a bit close but retracted backward: "It is difficult to crack open. Which makes me wonder if you 'were' a handsome junior doctor or~ a nurse?"
"I think I need to check on my office. Doc spoke rapidly before he could drive away, he halted and turned, "And y-your welcome, Nataly." Nataly smiled warmly, her eyes filled with genuine admiration after she drives back to the Cozy Cone Motel by being escorted by Doc himself: "Thank you, Doc, for sharing this incredible story with me. It's a testament to the resilience and spirit of this town and its people. I'm honored to have experienced it firsthand."
His engine rumbled softly, a mixture of emotions swirling within him. As he stared at Nataly, he couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, opening up to her wouldn't be as daunting as he initially thought. For now, he cherished the connection they had formed and looked forward to more moments spent exploring the history and beauty of Radiator Springs together.
