Cars: A Hostile Switch of Fate (Cars fan fiction)

Chapter 3: A turn for the worst

In Emeryville, Wave had visited his old pit crew and told them that he needed them, as he had changed his sponsor since the last time he saw them. They were eager to return to pit row. Then he decided to return to his trailer, where he thought to himself. Maybe he needed a personality change. This Wave thought through for a while. Finally, he made his choice.

His personality would change, but not a huge amount. This would only be on the track, however, as he did not want to affect his friendship with Michael, and especially Lightning.
Wave re-emerged from his trailer and told Solomon that he would like to return to Radiator Springs to show off his new designs.
When Wave and Solomon returned to the town, it was time to showcase his new character.

Wave left his trailer slowly to keep his design a mystery. Everyone gasped when Wave’s design was fully unveiled. He looked amazing. Even Lightning was impressed! Wave smirked at everyone as he sped towards Willy’s Butte for practice. Lightning took this as a challenge and closely followed him towards the Butte.

When at Willy’s Butte, Wave revved his engine loudly and began to practice, with Lightning hot on his bumper. Wave, being a new-ish racer, was still a rookie, but was now showing attitudes similar to an old foe Lightning knew.
When practice finished, Wave spoke to Lightning, with something new in his voice. “Couldn’t keep up, old man.”

Lightning, confused, shrugged and said, “What are you talking about? I was right behind you.” Wave smirked and drove off for another lap. Lightning questioned what he had just seen in his head and drove off back to town.

After an hour, Wave returned to town for a quart of oil. He arrived at Flo’s and to his surprise, everyone in town had been waiting for him. “What are you guys doing?” Wave asked. Ramone, the artist, replied:
“We wanna know what’s up with you, man. You acted weird to Lightning earlier.” Wave knew exactly what Ramone was talking about. “What’s it to you, Ramone?” Wave sarcastically replied. Everyone gasped. Lightning pulled up.

“Wave.” Lightning said. “That is not a very nice thing to say, especially to your friend.” Wave laughed. “Friend?” Lightning felt offended for Ramone. “Listen, Wave. I do not like your attitude.” Wave savagely replied, with a raised voice, “Well, McQueen, you’re gonna have to get used to it. Because I am no longer that guy who wanted your help.” Another gasp. Wave eyed Lightning evilly and drove off.