Racing Rivals, Racing Hearts ☆ [Diego Brando x Reader]

If The Shoe Fits (63)

Separated once again from Funny Valentine, you and Diego pressed on through the eighth stage of the Steel Ball Run. The terrain was harsh, but the two of you were determined. The goal was clear, and each day brought you closer to the ultimate prize.

As you rode, Diego glanced at you, his expression thoughtful. "You know, after everything that's happened, I can't help but wonder if Valentine's playing a deeper game than we realize."

You nodded, your mind still preoccupied with your recent revelations about your heritage and Valentine's apparent knowledge. "He probably is. But we have to stay focused. We can't let him get the upper hand."

Diego's eyes met yours, a silent agreement passing between you. Despite the uncertainties and the dangers, you both knew you could count on each other.

As the eighth stage course route led you near Independence Hall, the air grew tense with anticipation. Philadelphia was buzzing with activity, the historic city now a pivotal point in the race. But there was more at play than just the race itself.

You learned about Lucy Steel, who was feigning as the First Lady. Diego had his suspicions, and as he shared them with you, a plan began to form. "If her identity is still hidden, this might be the perfect opportunity to seize all the body parts being collected in Philadelphia," Diego mused.

"Security is tight, though," you pointed out. "The town is under high alert."

Just then, a guard approached from behind, his footsteps barely audible. Before you could react, Diego moved swiftly, taking the guard down and stripping him of his uniform. "I'll go to Independence Hall to assassinate the president," he said, his voice low and determined. "You wait nearby."

You nodded, understanding the gravity of his mission. "Be careful, Diego."

He gave you a reassuring smile before slipping into the guard's uniform and disappearing out of sight. You waited anxiously, the minutes stretching into what felt like hours. Finally, Diego returned, his expression grim but determined.

"I had a clear chance," he explained, "but I decided to wait and observe his Stand ability. I wanted to find its weakness. Valentine is dangerous, but he can be defeated. I'm going to use Wekapipo as bait to trap him. You need to continue the race. I don't want you getting involved in this part. We'll reconvene in a hour."

Reluctantly, you agreed. Diego's plan was risky, but you trusted his judgment. As you resumed the race, your thoughts were with him, hoping for his safety and success.

———

An hour later, you spotted Diego on his horse, making his way through the streets. You rode over to him, immediately noticing his exhausted state. His clothes were torn, and his face bore the marks of a fierce battle.

"Diego, what happened?!" you asked, concern lacing your voice.

He took a deep breath, his eyes meeting yours with a mixture of relief and determination. "I got into a stand battle with Valentine and Wekapipo. But never mind that, I learned something crucial. Valentine has the entire corpse now, along with the left eye. But I found out his weakness. We can still stop him."

Before you could respond, the sound of approaching hooves interrupted the moment. You turned to see Hot Pants riding toward the two of you, her expression unreadable behind the mask she always wore. She reined in her horse, stopping just a few feet away.

"Diego, Y/N," she began, her tone serious, "I have a proposition."

Diego arched an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "I'm listening."

Hot Pants continued, "I need the corpse, but I don't care about the power or the life it can offer. My goal is simple—to return it to its rightful resting place, far away from those who would use it for their own gain. In return for your help, I can promise you the President's life, his assets, and his political power. Valentine has to be taken out of the equation. Will you help me?"