Page 88 of Full Throttle

Colby could barely get her words together. She was overcome with emotion. “It feels like . . . a long time coming, but I didn’t do this alone. I didn’t get here by myself.” Colby glanced out into the crowd. “Today’s win couldn’t have happened without so many people who invested in me.” She glanced up heavenward and screamed his name. “Rodney James!” Colby pumped her fist in the air. “This one is for you!” Her friends cheered even louder at the mention of his name. “My dad. He’s the best crew chief in the business. Cyrus James and my Lockwood family, thank you for riding with me since well before I could legally drive.” She pointed out into the crowd. “Lila, I love you. Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement.” Colby placed her trophy down on the platform. When she stood, she brought her hands together as if in prayer. “Thank you, Brian Lockwood, for believing in me and being willing to put the best driver on the course. And finally, but certainly not least, Liam Lockwood.” Her eyes softened. “Thank you for your encouragement and for pushing me to be my best. For loving a girl with grease underneath her nails and a need for speed.” She mouthed the words, “I love you.”

He placed his hand over his heart. “I love you back.”

Colby wasn’t prepared for the announcer’s follow-up question. “What are your thoughts regarding the video that emerged of your fellow teammate, Asher McKay, and Lorene Greene conspiring to get you out of the race. It appears the massive pile-up caused by McKay was the same type of illegal move discussed in the video. I’m hearing sanctions are coming. Possibly even life-time bans and criminal charges.”

“Video?” The shock on Colby’s face was evident. “I wasn’t aware of a video.”

“It’s gone viral. It was just released within the last hour.”

Colby took a moment to process what she’d heard before speaking. “Nothing is more important than the safety of the drivers. As you know, I have personal experience with illegal moves as I lost my brother to those same types of aggressive maneuvers. I would expect NASCAR to punish any driver who used them to the fullest extent, no matter which team they drive for. If the acts were criminal, I would also expect charges to be brought against them. Since I haven’t seen the tape, that’s all I have to say for now.”

After the interview, NASCAR handlers came to whisk Colby away to the media room. Before she took another step, Colby hopped down from the podium and ran over to Liam. She jumped into his arms. He wrapped them around Colby, and they kissed as if no one was watching. It was full of hope, promise, and passion.

Colby pulled back slightly. “You have anything to do with that tape?”

“I told you. I always have more than one plan.”

She exhaled. “Finally, justice for my brother.” She could now truly put the past behind her. The corner of her mouth turned up in a half-smile. “You know, I’ve got to go do this thing.”

“You mean that little thing called a press conference?” Liam teased.

“Yeah. Something like that.”

Liam turned serious. “I’ll be right here when you’re finished.”

“Promise?” Colby gazed lovingly into his eyes. “It’s going to be a wild and crazy ride.”

He held her a little tighter. “I’m not intimidated. Promise.”

Colby slowly slid down his body until her feet touched the ground. She could see the truth in his eyes. For the first time since the death of her brother, she was full of hope. Colby was ready to tackle her life both on the course and off, full throttle.

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