Chapter Seventy Three
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"So Dakota and I have to run into the office for a few hours. When we get back, we'll all go out to dinner and then come back to the club. Sound like a plan?" Dale asked Brett and IreLyn when he and Dakota had stopped by the apartment to let them know that they had to leave for a while.
"If you need anything between now and then, you have both of our cell numbers." Dakota told them, and then paused for a moment. A wicked grin curved her lips as she looked at Brett and IreLyn.
"What?" IreLyn and Brett exclaimed in unison when Dakota snickered.
"Look out the window behind you and tell me what you see." Dakota managed to say between giggles.
Brett and IreLyn both spun around and gazed out the window.
"Shut up!" IreLyn hissed quietly as she turned back around and glared at Dakota, her cheeks flaming. Brett stood silently beside her, his own face flushed.
"Just wanted to remind you that it's still out there." Dale teased as he gestured toward the now infamous picnic table in the far corner of the back yard.
"Get out of here!" Brett growled playfully as he grabbed a pillow from the couch beside him and launched it at Dale. The pillow hit him square in the forehead, knocking his cap and sunglasses off of his head.
"Oh, you are so going to pay for that!" Dale paused and glanced at his watch, seeing that he and Dakota really needed to get going. "Later." Dale stated, giving his best glare while fighting desperately to not bust out laughing.
He and Brett were usually dead even when it came to stare down, neither one of them willing to back down until their eyes felt sure to pop out. Sometimes Brett got him early in the game by making a funny face at him, which was something Brett was very good at.
"Ooooo..." Brett held his hands up defensively, his face a mask of mock fear. "Is that a threat?"
"No. That, my friend, is a promise." Dale guaranteed as he and Brett continued to stare each other down, both of them fighting back the urge to laugh.
IreLyn and Dakota looked at each other and giggled. They loved it when Dale and Brett put on this act. It was very entertaining.
Placing her hand on Dale's arm, Dakota broke his concentration and attention away from Brett. "Can you continue this later? We have to get going if we want to get back at a decent time to go out to dinner." Dakota said as she tugged on his arm to get him moving. It was already six o' clock in the evening and it would be eight or nine before they got back.
"We can meet you at the restaurant...or Brett and I can just fix up something here. Then we wouldn't have to go out and brave the people." IreLyn knew that she was being selfish by not wanting to share Brett with his fans, but she had less than one more day with him before he had to go back. She wasn't in the sharing mood at that moment. She knew that Dakota felt the same way with Dale leaving the next evening as well.
"Ya know, that sounds like a great idea, Lyn!" She knew that IreLyn was more than capable of making dinner for them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Seventy Four
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dakota sat up straighter in the passenger seat of the Chevy Impala Dale was driving over to DEI when she noticed the car sitting along the street, directly in front of his house. She glanced over at Dale and noticed him looking at it before looking away, a slightly annoyed crossing his handsome face. She looked back at the black Suburban, her eyebrows raising when she noticed just how dark the windows were tinted, making it impossible for her to see who was in the vehicle. “Do you know who that is?” she asked, still looking out the window at the other vehicle. “Nope.” Dale replied, not even sparing them another glance. He saw Dakota turn her head towards him, the questions in her eyes. He sighed as he began to explain. “It happens all the time. Fans find out I live across the street from DEI and they decide to watch the house. For the most part they stay over to DEI, but some are braver than others and park right outside the house.” He noticed Dakota’s eyes getting wider, her mouth falling open in shock. “People actually do that?” She exclaimed, turning back to glare at the offending vehicle which was now a little ways behind them, still sitting in the same spot. “That’s sick.” She spat out, disgusted with the way some people behaved.
“I’ve learned to deal with it.” Dale shrugged. “As long as they don’t try to come up the drive to the house, it doesn’t bother me near as much as it used too.”
“How long do you think they will stay there?” Dakota asked.
“Who knows. Most people don’t stay long, especially when they figure out I’m not there. And if they do see me leave and head over to the shop, they usually follow.”
“Don’t you worry about what the people could try to pull when you’re not at home?” Dakota asked.
“Not really. DEI has a camera on the house, so it’s constantly under security. If they see someone not authorized going up to the house, the cops are called immediately.” He replied.
“It’s still freaky.” Dakota muttered, sitting back in her seat, frowning slightly. The frown immediately disappeared when they pulled up to DEI, taking the car around to the back garage, where visitors wouldn’t be able to see the Dale was there. She loved being at DEI and couldn’t wait to bring IreLyn over to visit. But that would have to wait until after the guys were gone. For right now, neither of them needed any kind of distraction to help pass time. That would come in a couple days time for both of them
They climbed out of the car and he walked her over to the back door, punching in the security code then holding the door open for her. “I’m going to head over to the garage where the guys are and work on the car. Then I have to meet with Teresa. Will you be in your office?” he asked, reaching out to tuck her hair behind her ear, sending shivers all throughout her body with the simple gesture.
“Uh…” She stammered, trying to concentrate on his questions instead of the sensations he was causing. “Yes. I have some things I need to finish up.” She was finally able to respond.
He grinned at her as he leaned forward and brushed his lips across hers. “I’ll meet you there when I’m done.” He told her before kissing her again then walking away. Dakota followed him with her eyes, then turned and walked in the building, shaking her head. All she could say was that it was a good thing that she hardly ever saw him during the day at work, otherwise she’d never get a damn thing done!
***
IreLyn broke the heated kiss with great reluctance, and the disappointed groan that came from Brett nearly had her going back to his arms. But she knew she couldn’t when she glanced at the clock.
“I’m sorry, baby.” She apologized, smiling softly at him. “But I need to get started on dinner. It’s already 8:30.” She grinned sheepishly, realizing just how much time they had let slip by.
“No way, is it?” Brett exclaimed, turning to look at the clock himself, chuckling softly to himself when he saw it indeed said 8:30. “Damn, time really does fly when you’re having fun.”
IreLyn giggled as she smacked his arm, rising off the bed and picking up her clothes that had been strewn across the room. After getting dressed she looked over at Brett, her hands going to her hips when she saw he was still lying there, having not moved a muscle.
“You know, you could offer to help me make dinner.” She picked up a pillow and tossed it at him, laughing when he made a move to catch it, but nearly fell out of bed in the process.
“I’m not the cook in this relationship, Lyn.” He teased, throwing the pillow back at her, which she easily avoided. “You are.”
“Oh fine!” she gave in, picking up Brett’s clothes and taking them over to him. “But you’re still getting dressed and coming with me.”
“Where? I thought we were eating here.” Brett asked as he climbed out of bed.
IreLyn’s eyes were immediately drawn to his body and her mouth went completely dry and she was contemplating going without eating, but then remembered that Dale and Dakota would be back soon and expecting dinner.
She blinked and looked away from the temptation standing in front of her before clearing her throat, and her suddenly fuzzy brain at the same time.
“We are but I want you to get dressed and come keep me company at least.” She suggested as she moved towards the door.
A few minutes later she was slammed the last cabinet with frustration. “Christ, she doesn’t have anything for me to fix!” IreLyn exclaimed, surprised by Dakota’s bare shelves.
“Well, you know she did take a few days to come to Colorado to get you, so she probably just didn’t go shopping beforehand and hasn’t had time too since we got back. And besides, she probably doesn’t have to cook. Knowing Junior, he probably takes her out just about every night.” Brett grinned, knowing his friend entirely too well.
IreLyn laughed as she nodded knowing Brett was more than likely correct. “Shame on me for not even thinking about that.” She scolded herself. “Well, come on.” She said as she grabbed his hand, leading him towards the front door.
“Where we going?” Brett asked, moving with her.
“We’re gonna go raid Dale’s fridge.” She announced with a grin. She stopped in her tracks when Brett burst into laughter behind her. She turned around and looked at him, totally confused.
“Didn’t realize I said something so funny.” She muttered.
“You want to raid Junior’s fridge?” Brett said in between hoots of laughter. “Think of who you are talking about here. I can guarantee you that he has less food in his house than Dakota. Unless you feel like gourmet cat food.”
“Damn it.” IreLyn sighed, realizing again Brett was right. Now what was she gonna do? She was a great cook, but even she couldn’t whip something out of thin air, and there was no way in hell she was going for Bud’s food. She shuddered at the thought.
She glanced down at her watch, taking note of the time. “If we hurry, we can go pick something up and hopefully still be back before Dale and Kody get here.” She said as she grabbed his hand and pulled him out the door behind her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Seventy Five
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"What the hell?" IreLyn questioned as she drove Brett's rental car out of the driveway and spotted the black suburban that Dakota and Dale has seen earlier.
Brett shrugged nonchalantly, being used to see people watching Dale's house. That kind of thing happened to most celebrities, including himself. After a while he just sort of got used to it and learned to ignore the rudeness of some fans.
"Must be one of Junior's fans." Brett answered as he looked away from the black vehicle and focused his attention on the beautiful woman beside him.
"What?" IreLyn exclaimed in shock and confusion as they drove away. "They just sit there like that and watch Dale's house? That is some sick shit!"
"It happens, Lyn." Brett calmly told her when he saw the horrified expression on her face.
"People do that to you too?" IreLyn asked, still troubled by the thought.
"Yeah, but the people are usually harmless. I've had nothing happen to me yet and I've only heard of one or two serious incidents. People just mostly want to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars."
"But to park outside of someone's residence?..." IreLyn began to questioned but stopped when she spotted the super market that she knew wasn't far from Dale's house.
"Do you want to just wait in the car?" IreLyn asked as she brought the car to a stop in one of the parking spots.
"Yeah, since we are in a hurry, that would probably be the quickest way to get in and out of there fast."
IreLyn leaned across the seat and gave Brett a quick, but heated kiss before she reached for the door and opened it. "Okay, I'll be right back then."
As IreLyn walked quickly into the store, she didn't notice that the black suburban had followed inconspicuously behind them and was now parked across the parking lot out of her sight, but Logan and Jean-Claude could easily see her. Brett, having all of his attention on IreLyn hadn't noticed that they'd been followed either. *****
"There she is." Logan pointed out IreLyn to jean-Claude as she walked into the store. Jean-Claude just grunted some offhanded reply. He knew who IreLyn was and didn't need to have her pointed out to him. But IreLyn wasn't really the one whom he was concerned about. It was Dakota.
Logan immediatly felt his body tighten. Desire raged through his veins as intimate details of his time with IreLyn flashed through his mind. His hand went unbidden to the door handle of the suburban and opened it. Logan climbed out of the vehicle, intent on following his desired target.
"Hey, where the hell are you going?" Jean-Claude demanded when he saw Logan getting out of the truck. His sharply spoken words abruptly, but effectively snapped Logan out of his daze.
Logan frowned when he realized that he'd let himself get carried away. He knew that he needed to get more control over himself and be patient if this plan was to work out, making IreLyn his once and for all.
"No where." Logan muttered as he climbed back inside the suburban and situated himself behind the steering wheel once again. He turned his eyes back to the store entrance, waiting for IreLyn to exit. Afterwards, they would probably go back to their hotel. To follow IreLyn and Brett back to Dale's house that night would be much too risky.
*****
"Well, it looks like your 'fans' have left." Dakota commented with a fair amount of derision, as they approached Dale's house and saw that the black suburban was no longer there.
"Yeah, they probably left after we did." Dale said, unconcerned as he turned into the driveway and drove up to the garage.
"I wonder where Brett and Lyn went." Dakota said, seeing that the rental car was gone. No sooner than the words were out of her mouth, the car turned into the driveway and parked behind Dale.
"Needed supplies." IreLyn told Dakota as she climbed out of the car, answering Dakota's question before it could be asked. "I may be a good cook, but I ain't a miracle worker."
"Oh sorry, Lyn! I just haven't had time to go buy anything since we got back" Dakota tried to explain, but stopped when IreLyn held up her hand.
"No problem. I took care of it." IreLyn assured Dakota with a smile. "But enough talk. I need to get to work on this food. I am starving!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Seventy Six
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Lyn, that was absolutely delicious. I nominate you to cook whenever I’m home.” Dale sat back as broad satisfied grin on his face as he patted his flat belly.
“So you’re saying you don’t like my cooking?” Dakota asked, her eyebrow raised in question as she looked over at him, fighting hard not to laugh at the startled expression on Dale’s face.
“I’d think long and hard before you answer that question, buddy.” Brett snickered.
“Uh, um…” Dale stuttered, trying to figure out the best way to diffuse the situation. “Kody, I love your cooking, you know that. How about this, you cook breakfast, and IreLyn can cook dinner.” He breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Dakota smile, but his own faded when he heard IreLyn speak up.
“Um, Dale, I hate to remind you, but you never get out of bed in time for breakfast when you're home.” IreLyn giggled, smiling innocently when Dale shot her a glare.
“Gee, thanks for the reminder, Lyn.” He growled, throwing his napkin at her. Dakota couldn’t hold it in any longer and burst out laughing.
“It’s okay, honey.” She assured him, placing her hand on his arm. “I openly admit that IreLyn is a much better cook than I am, and I have no objections to her cooking dinner whenever your home. Besides, if she’s cooking, that means I’m relaxing!”
IreLyn scowled at that. “Why do I get the feeling I’ve just been had?”
“So, what are we doing tonight?” Brett asked as IreLyn and Dakota started clearing away the dishes.
“Not much.” Dale answered. “You’re going back on the road early tomorrow, and I’m leaving the next day and haven’t even started packing. Don’t really feel like getting into too much tonight.”
“Something must be wrong with my hearing.” Brett declared as he rubbed his ears. “I can’t believe I just heard you say you didn’t feel like getting into much. I never thought I’d see the day when NASCAR’s infamous party boy would settle down.”
The girls walked back in the room just in time to see Dale flip off Brett as he stood up. Brett leaned back in his chair and grinned at his friend.
“Oh that was mature.” He teased.
“Fuck you.” Dale threw over his shoulder as he headed towards the kitchen.
“Again, so mature.” Brett called after him with a laugh.
“Do we need to separate you two boys?” IreLyn asked as she walked up behind Brett wrapping her arms around his neck, kissing him on the cheek.
Before he could answer, Dale walked back in with a Budweiser in hand. “Hey!” Brett exclaimed, standing up. “Where’s my beer?”
Dale shrugged as he walked over to the couch and sat down with a satisfied sigh. “I’m immature, therefore I don’t share.” He replied.
Brett grumbled under his breath, muttering a few colorful words about his friend. Dakota and IreLyn looked at each other grinning, trying their hardest not to laugh.
“I’m sorry, you’re very mature.” Brett finally said out loud, not really sounding apologetic.
Dale grinned. “Thank you. I knew you’d see things my way. But you’re still not getting any of my beer.” He said as he took a big swallow of his own beer.
The look on Brett’s face was enough to send all three of them into a laughing fit.
***
Logan and Jean-Claude watched the house from the street, having decided to go back after dark. They knew it was risky, but neither could resist the chance at seeing the girl one more time that day.
“Remember, first thing tomorrow morning we got turn in this vehicle and get a new one.” Jean-Claude told the man sitting in the driver seat next to him.
“Why?” Logan asked, not taking his eyes off the house.
“Why?” Jean-Claude repeated staring at the man with disbelief. Ever since they had arrived in North Carolina and knew precisely where the girls were, Logan had changed drastically. It’s like he wasn’t all there…all his attention riveted on the woman inside the house.
Jean-Claude understood perfectly how he felt, but he knew he had to keep his wits about him or they’d be screwed, royally. Now if only he could get Logan to realize it also.
“Because, you moron, if we’re coming back tomorrow we can’t very well come back in the same damn vehicle.” Jean-Claude nearly shouted at him, finally getting Logan’s full attention. “No, that wouldn’t be obvious at all to show up two days in a row driving the same thing.”
“Fine.” Logan growled, his grip tightening on the steering wheel. “Tomorrow we trade it in.”
He turned his attention back to the house, completely blocking out the other man. The urge and desire that was racing through him was completely clouding his brain. All he could concentrate on was getting his hands on IreLyn. He knew Jean-Claude was right, and he also knew he had to keep it together…better than he had so far.
“Soon, IreLyn.” He whispered out loud as he continued to stare at the house. “Soon.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Seventy Seven
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"What's on your mind, Lyn?" Dakota asked as she and IreLyn were cleaning up the kitchen and she noticed that IreLyn had suddenly become quiet and deep in thought. "Lyn?" Dakota asked once more when IreLyn didn't seem to hear her question.
"Huh?" IreLyn asked in confusion, blinking her eyes as she was snapped out of her thoughts.
"I asked what was on your mind. You're a million miles away." Dakota restated her previous question.
"Oh, nothing really." IreLyn paused as she placed the last plate back in the china hutch. She turned back around, her hands twisting the dish towel in her hands as she tried to figure out how to word what she'd been thinking about.
"I guess I'm just kind of freaked that Dale's fans sit out on the road and watch the house. Is it safe? I mean, does Dale have a security system here? Brett says it is nothing to worry about and that it happens to him too. It still freaks me out though." Dakota sighed as she sat down at the small breakfast table in the kitchen. "It's funny that you should mention that because Dale and I had the same exact conversation earlier. When we left there was a black suburban parked out on the road and I asked Dale about it. I-" Before Dakota could go any further, IreLyn interrupted her.
"A black suburban? Did it have really dark tinted windows?" IreLyn asked urgently. Even though Brett had assured her that is was nothing to worry about, she couldn't help but feel suspicious.
"Yes. Why?"
"Well, that is the same one that Brett and I saw when we ran to the grocery store." IreLyn paused as she straightened her thoughts. It all seemed really strange. "I wonder why they didn't leave when Dale did...I mean, wouldn't they have followed him?" "Well, Dale says that they usually do follow him when he leaves. Maybe they fell asleep waiting for a glimpse of Dale." Dakota laughed, trying to lighten the situation.
IreLyn smiled at her friend. "Yeah, you're probably right. They were gone when we got back."
"The suburban was gone when we got here too. And Dale said that there is top-notch security on the house so he isn't worried and says that I should be either. But I have to agree with you, it is a little strange."
******
"So what time does your flight leave tomorrow?" IreLyn asked Brett as they walked back to the apartment after saying good night to Dale and Dakota.
"9:00am." Brett answered as he stopped his steps. He pulled IreLyn close to him, catching her lips in a heated kiss as he did so. When he ended the kiss a few moments later, they were both breathless as they stared into each other's eyes. Smiling softly, Brett reached out, his fingers gently brushing her lips. "Which means that we better make good use of the hours that we have between now and then."
"Mmm... that sounds like a good idea." IreLyn agreed as she pressed her body tighter against Brett's. She felt the evidence of his desire and instantly felt heat spread through out her body.
Grabbing Brett's hand, IreLyn began leading him toward the apartment again. She was surprised when Brett stopped her. "What?" She asked, her green eyes clouding with confusion.
Brett smiled, a wicked gleam lighting his eyes. "We'll get in there...later. But for now...What do ya say for old time's sake...we..." Brett trailed off as he nodded his head toward 'their' picnic table.
"Brett..." IreLyn began, but abruptly stopped herself as he watched Brett's eyes turn dark with longing. The next thing she knew, his lips were on his in a hungry and demanding kiss.
As he pulled back from the heated kiss, Brett hoisted IreLyn over one shoulder and hauled her the short distance to the picnic table.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Seventy Eight
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Wow, so this is Daytona.” IreLyn said in awe, her eyes wide with amazement as she took in the sights around her. Never before had she seen so many people, so hyped for the upcoming race.
“Awesome, isn’t it?” Brett asked, as he smiled down at her. He had been to the racetrack a few times, but the magic of the track never ceased to capture him and draw him in.
“There you two are! I was beginning to think you weren’t gonna make it!” Dakota exclaimed as she pushed her way through the mob of people to get to her friends.
It was February and time for the Daytona 500 and the beginning of the new race season. Brett was officially off the road for the next few months, although he did have a few appearances he needed to do, and not to mention the fact that Fuel was busy in the studio working on their new album.
Dakota and IreLyn hugged each other, not having seen each other in a few weeks, since IreLyn had left to visit Brett’s home. She was now living permanently in Dale’s garage apartment, not having the heart to go back to Colorado. Although she and Dakota still missed Colorado to an extent, they quickly figured out home was wherever they were, as long as Brett and Dale was there with them.
“Come on, Dale’s anxious to see you.” Dakota grinned as she motioned for them to follow her, after handing them the passes they would need to get in the garage area where the drivers and cars were waiting anxiously for the race to start.
“Man, I can’t believe we missed yesterday when Junior won.” Brett grumbled. He and IreLyn had been scheduled to fly to Florida early the day before, in time to catch the Bush race Dale was driving in, but due to heavy storms in the area, the airport had been closed.
“Yeah, I think Dale was a little upset you guys couldn’t be here to help celebrate, but he understood. He did say that you two would have to party extra hard with us tonight after he wins the 500.” Dakota laughed.
“After he wins, huh?” Brett chuckled. “Now that’s the kind of attitude I’ve come to expect from Junior. I’m looking forward to seeing him in Victory Lane today, I just really wish I could have been here yesterday.”
The day before had been a special day indeed. Not only was it the first race of the season for the Bush drivers. But it was also the first of only two Bush races Dale was participating in this season. Most importantly, however, he was driving the number 3 car…the first time it had been driven since Dale Earnhardt.
To see the #3 back out on the track, and an Earnhardt behind the wheel leading the race, then in Victory Lane, was something that would not be forgotten for a long time to come.
And today was the Winston’s first race. The Daytona 500. The most talked about race all season. And the favorite for this race…Dale Earnhardt Jr.
“Well look at who the cat drug in.”
They all three stopped and turned around, all breaking out into a grin when they saw Kevin Harvick strolling towards them, decked out in his fireproof suit, obviously ready for the race.
“Hey there, Happy Harvick.” Brett greeted, his smile widening when he saw Kevin roll his eyes at the nickname he’d been stuck with.
“IreLyn, it’s good to see you again.” He said as he leaned down and placed a light kiss on her cheek.
“You too Kevin. Good luck today.” IreLyn smiled up at him.
“Thanks. I’ll be gunning for that red Budweiser car.” He smirked.
“I’m sure Dale’s petrified.” Dakota shook her head as she turned and continued do the Budweiser stall, knowing Dale was still there with his crew, going over some last minute adjustments on the car.
Sure enough when they got to the stall, they all easily spotted him bent over the engine of the car, talking with his car chief and cousin, Tony Eury, Jr.
“Yo, Junior!” Brett yelled loudly, effectively gaining the young Earnhardt’s attention, along with every one else in the garage.
Dale’s head jerked up and he broke out into a broad grin when he saw who it was. He straightened up and walked over to them.
“Well, it’s about damn time!” he grumbled good naturedly as he hugged IreLyn.
“Hey man,” Brett said as they shook hands in that ‘manly’ fashion. “I’m really sorry we weren’t here yesterday. I was rooting for ya though.”
“Believe me he was! Actually, I think the whole airport was.” IreLyn added, referring to the way everyone in the airport bar had reacted when Dale crossed the finish line. It had actually brought tears to her eyes.
“Well, you’ll just get to enjoy it today when I win.” Dale grinned mischievously as he stepped back and put his arm around Dakota, pulling her closer to him.
Kevin coughed loudly. “Um, excuse me, but I may have something to say about that.”
Dale glared playfully at his longtime friend. “And just what do you have to say about it, rookie?”
“Christ, I’m not a rookie anymore.” Kevin complained. Dale simply crossed his arms over his chest.
“When driving against me, Happy, you’ll always be a rookie.”
***
“WHAT THE FUCK WAS HE THINKING?”
Brett, IreLyn and Dakota all three jumped, pulling the headphones away from their ears, which were now ringing. Even that didn’t help, they could all still very clearly hear Dale as he cursed.
“Somebody get on the fucking radio and ask his fucking spotter what the fuck he was thinking!” He yelled to his crew as they scrambled around their pit to get ready for the unscheduled pit stop. They wanted to get Junior in and out as soon as possible, not wanting to do anything to piss off the already irate Earnhardt even more.
He’d been racing hard, running behind his teammate, Michael Waltrip, in second place, when he blew his right front tire. Well, he didn’t blow his tire…his brother did.
His older half-brother, Kerry Earnhardt, was also running the Daytona 500. He was two laps down, but still racing hard. He and Junior were side by side when Kerry slid down the track, rubbing against Junior’s number 8 car. The rubbing caused the tire to be cut down and blow a few seconds later. To say that Junior was pissed was an extreme understatement.
“There goes Victory Lane.” Dakota said softly as she watched Dale pull into his pit, the right side of his car where the tire blew torn all to hell.
“Why the hell didn’t Kerry just get out of his way?” Brett demanded, asking the same thing the entire crew had been wondering, especially Dale. “He’s a lapped car. He needed to go up the track and just let Dale by. Now he’s cost him his shot at the win.”
“I think Dale’s well aware of that.” Dakota sighed, still hearing Junior’s cussing through the headphones which were now sitting on her lap.
“Poor Dale.” IreLyn said softly, her eyes glued to the damaged Budweiser Chevy as it pulled off pit lane and rejoined the other cars on the track, but this time a lap down.
“Poor Dale? Ha! Poor Kerry!” Brett snorted. When IreLyn and Dakota both gave him questioning looks he shrugged and gave a lopsided grin. “Think about it, would you really want to be in Kerry’s shoes after the race when Junior gets a hold of him?”
They both grimaced at the though. Oh yeah, after the race the Earnhardt brother’s were definitely going to face off. And it wasn’t going to be pretty.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Seventy Nine
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dakota, IreLyn and Brett stood back as they watched the Budweiser crew timidly approach Junior as he climbed out of the car. He yanked off his helmet, tossing it in the front seat of his car without even giving it a second glance.
“Where is he?” he growled to his crew chief, Tony Eury Sr., who was the only one brave enough to approach the young Earnhardt at the moment.
“Looks like they are pulling his car in the garage. Junior, you sure you wanna do this now? Maybe you should calm down a little first.” His uncle suggested, then held his hands up when he received the glare.
“Never mind, it was just a suggestion. A stupid one, I know that now.” Tony apologized, shaking his head when his nephew took off, vaulting the pit wall with cat like grace, but he knew him well enough to know the anger that was just beneath the surface.
“Hey man, sorry about today. How about we just go back to the trailer…” Brett trailed off when Dale marched past him, his blue eyes flashing dangerously as he moved towards the garage with a purpose.
“What are you all standing around for? Come one, this is going to be classic!” Kevin Harvick announced as he raced by the three people who were still standing staring off after Dale.
Within moments they were all standing around the open door of the garage, all breathing a sigh of relief that Kerry wasn’t anywhere to be found. They had thought that Junior would have time to calm down a little, but finish the race 33rd hadn’t done anything to help his anger, and he was just as angry, if not more so then when he and his brother had their run in on the track.
“Dale, the officials just sent word down that if you so much as touch your brother, you’re gonna be fined…severely.” Tony Sr. shouted, hoping to get his young driver to think for just a moment.
“Fuck that.” Dale spat, not caring less about a fine or anything at the moment other than finding Kerry. His eyes narrowed when at that moment Kerry walked into the garage.
“Oooh, not the good move man.” Kevin said under his breath as he too spotted Kerry. “Shoulda stayed gone.”
Kerry stopped in his tracks when he saw his younger brother glaring at him, and swallowed hard. This had been the moment he’d been hoping to avoid. Obviously that wasn’t gonna happen.
“Dale, I’m sorry about what happened out there. I don’t know what happened.” Kerry rushed to calm Dale down as he stalked towards him.
“I’ll tell you what happened.” Dale growled through clenched teeth as he grabbed Kerry by the front of his uniform and shoving him up against his car. “You didn’t use that fucking head of yours and get the hell out of the way!”
It was Kevin Harvick that saw just how out of hand Junior's temper was getting and stepped forward between the two men. He knew he was taking a risk by stepping in the way of his angry friend, but he didn't want Dale to be fined, or worse...suspended.
"Maybe it was an honest mistake, Junior." Kevin tried to reason with Dale, although he knew just as well as Dale, and everyone else that what Kerry had done had been intentional. "Maybe he really couldn't move up."
Kevin stood his ground as he became the subject of Dale's furious glare. He wasn't about to let himself be intimidated. "Back off, Junior." Kevin demanded, his voice low enough so that only Dale could hear him. "This isn't the place." The look in Kevin's eye told Dale that if he wanted to continue this else where with Kerry, Kevin wouldn't stop him.
Dale stood there silently for a moment, his entire body still shaking with anger. Then he looked Kevin in the eye for before roughly shoving him aside. Stepping forward, Dale leaned down until his face was just inches from Kerry's.
""Don't you ever pull a stunt like that again." Dale warned and anyone who heard him or seen him, knew just how serious he was. With that said, Dale straightened up again. His blue eyes still glaring angrily, he waited a moment to see if his brother had anything to say.
When Kerry didn't say anything, Dale turned on his heel and stalked away. We walked right past Dakota, Brett, and IreLyn, know that he couldn't talk to them until he'd calmed down considerably.
Kevin threw Kerry a cold look of his own before he turned and walked over to where Dakota, Brett, and Lyn were standing. Seeing the distressed expression on Dakota's face, Kevin wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her close.
"Don't worry. He'll be fine." Kevin gestured to Dale's rapidly retreating form as he did his best to assure Dakota that everything would be okay. "He just needs to let off some steam." Kevin knew that Junior sometimes had a hard time keeping his temper in check and that the reason why he walked away without saying a word to anyone was so no one would end up unfairly being the subject of his anger.
Dakota sighed softly as she watched Dale walking away. She wanted nothing more to be able to comfort him, but she knew that Kevin was right. When Dale had calmed down and felt ready, he would be back.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Logan turned off the TV and sat back, looking over at Jean-Claude seeing that the other man was deep in thought. “Well, that was certainly interesting.” Logan commented. “Nothing like a little sibling rivalry, huh?” he joked.
Jean-Claude stayed quiet as he continued to gaze at the now blank screen. He was processing all that he had just seen. He and Logan hadn’t been able to get tickets to the race, so instead had watched on TV They had both been more than happy to see Junior pretty much taken out early in the race, by none other than his own brother.
They had been just about ready to turn off the TV when the camera crew followed Dale as he stalked to his brother’s garage. They, along with anyone watching the channel, had witnessed what had taken place between the two Earnhardt’s.
“Alright, you’ve got that calculating look about ya.” Logan said, breaking through Jean-Claude’s thoughts. “What are you planning?”
“Nothing…yet. But I think we need to keep a close eye on this Kerry Earnhardt.” He said softly.
“Why? Like one damn Earnhardt isn’t enough?” Logan rolled his eyes, shaking his head.
Jean-Claude shot him a look before continuing to speak. “Obviously you missed the look on Kerry’s face as Dale Jr. walked away. Let’s just say it wasn’t brotherly love I was seeing. We need to keep an eye on this, because I’m thinking maybe, if we play our cards right, we just might be able to get Kerry to help us.”
“Help us with what?” Logan asked dumbly, not catching on to what the other man was saying.
There was another long pause before Logan’s question was answered. “Help us in destroying his brother.”
***
“Are sure it’s okay to leave?” IreLyn asked for the third time, glancing over her shoulder back at Dale’s trailer.
“Lyn, everything will be fine, I promise.” Brett reassured her, squeezing her hand lightly.
“I know, I’ve just never seen him so mad before.” IreLyn shuddered as she remembered the rage in Dale’s eyes. “I just can’t help but wonder if we should have left Dakota alone.”
Brett stopped walking and turned to face her completely. “Honey, believe me, Dale will not go back to his trailer until he’s completely calmed down, and I’d be willing to bet the first person he’s going to want to see will be Kody.”
IreLyn chewed on her lower lip before nodding and finally smiling softly. “You’re right. I’m just being paranoid. My first time at a race, remember. I just didn’t realize things got so…exciting.”
“Things can get very exciting around those guys. But Junior was justified in his anger today. What Kerry did was wrong, and I can guarantee you that if Dale Sr. were alive, he’d have been in Kerry’s face before Junior was even out of his car.” Brett sighed, suddenly feeling the loss of the man known as the Intimidator even more than he had all day, even though it had been on everyone’s minds. It was impossible to be at Daytona and not miss the great Dale Earnhardt.
“Come on, we need to catch up with Kevin and DeLana. I know how Kevin gets when he’s hungry.” Brett grinned as he retook IreLyn’s hand and led her towards Kevin’s trailer.
***
Dakota looked up as the door opened and inwardly sighed with relief when Dale walked in. He gave her a somewhat timid smile. He’d been looking for her, and was told that she was waiting for him, opting not to join Kevin, DeLana, Brett and IreLyn for dinner.
Dale sighed as he ran his hands through his short hair, uncertain of what to say. He knew he had completely lost his temper back there, and felt bad for his friends, especially Dakota, to have to witness it. He wasn’t sure how she would react to him now.
“Hey.” He said softly, stopping a few feet away from her. Dakota rose to her feet and closed the distance between them in a heartbeat, all but throwing herself in his arms, holding him tight.
“Are you alright?” she asked as she pulled back slightly to be able to look up into his eyes, knowing she would find the real answer there.
“I am now.” He answered honestly, giving her that crooked grin that never ceased to make her weak in the knees. “I’m sorry you had to see that.” He apologized, and started to say more, but she effectively cut him off by pressing her lips to his.
“Shhh,” she said a moment later. “There’s no need to apologize. It’s all a part of racing, right?”
“Yeah, I guess.” He replied, his gaze darkening once again when he thought of his brother. He shook his head, refusing to let his brother ruin the rest of his evening. “Anyway, that’s not an excuse, and I should have controlled myself better.”
“Actually, I thought it was kinda sexy.” She grinned, chuckling softly at the startled expression on his face. “Now come on,” she started pulling him towards the door before he could say anything. “We have just enough time to catch up with the others and go out to dinner.”
“Wait, what about the sexy part?” Dale asked, following her out the door.
“We’ll talk about that later…after food.” She smiled mischievously at him over her shoulder. “Oh, by the way, Kevin said that if we made it for dinner, you’re paying.”
“I’m not surprised.” Dale laughed, knowing he owed his friend for what he did earlier. He knew Kevin had saved his ass back in the garage. Not from his brother, but from a hefty fine or worse. And although at the time he didn’t feel too happy about it, now that he had time to really think about it and cool down considerably, he was grateful and would find away to pay Kevin back.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty One
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Almost race time!" Dakota said to IreLyn as she walked into the living room from the kitchen carrying chips, salsa and sodas for both of them.
"Yeah, you're just in time. They're about to start the pre-race interviews." IreLyn smiled when she saw Dakota's eyes light up. Dale was scheduled to be interviewed and Dakota could hardly wait to see him. They knew that the interview would be centered on what had taken place the week before at Daytona and Dale's brother, Kerry was also scheduled to give his side of the story.
"Man, I wish that I was there." Dakota complained. Not only because she missed Dale, but also because she loved Las Vegas, which was where the race was being held that week. But because she had some work that needed to be done before the quarter ended at DEI, Dakota needed to stay home. There was no way she would have gotten the work done if she'd been in Vegas with Dale. With Brett being booked all weekend, IreLyn opted to stay home with Dakota.
"I know you miss him." IreLyn spoke sympathetically. She completely understood how Dakota felt. "But he'll be back home tonight."
Dakota turned to her friend and smiled. "And so will Brett."
"I haven't seen him for five days and it feels like an eternity." IreLyn's smile widened as she looked at Dakota. "You know, it's probably a good thing that you aren't in Vegas. You and Dale might have ended up getting hitched while you were there if you were."
Dakota knew that IreLyn was just teasing her, but that didn't stop her heart from racing off or the sweat that formed on her palms at the thought of her and Dale being married.
"Would that be a bad thing?" Dakota questioned, although she already knew where IreLyn was going with this conversation.
"No, it's just that when you get married, I want to be there. After all, we've done everything else together all our lives. It would just be not cool if I missed out on your wedding."
Dakota smiled as she picked up a pillow and tossed it in IreLyn's direction. "Who says I'm getting married anyway?" She exclaimed before both girls broke out laughing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Two
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Well, that was certainly…interesting.” IreLyn commented as the race came to an end, turning to look at Dakota, who was chewing on her lip thoughtfully.
Dakota nodded in agreement, but didn’t say anything. “At least Junior finished in the top five!” IreLyn grinned, trying to lighten the mood, referring to him finishing fourth in the race.
“Yeah, but for some reason, I’m thinking that’s not what’s on his mind right now.” Dakota muttered softly, sitting forward as they started interviewing the drivers, waiting to see Dale.
She had a feeling the tension had started even before the race had. They had interviewed both Dale and Kerry, with Dale going first. They asked him about what happened the weekend before at Daytona, and he had pretty much shrugged it off, saying it was all a part of racing, letting everyone know he had no hard feelings about it a week later.
Kerry, however, was a different story. Basically, during his interview, he blamed the entire situation on his younger brother, saying he was hot tempered, and needed to learn how to control himself better.
They had tried to get Junior’s comments on what his brother had to say, but he refused the interview. Dakota had a feeling it wasn’t because he was too busy.
Once the race started, the Earnhardt brother’s were far enough apart from each other that no one had to worry about a repeat of the week before. At least until the end of the race.
Junior was racing hard, running in 6th position, when he came up on his brother, again a lapped car. They started racing each other as if it were for the lead, Kerry blocking every attempt Junior made to pass. The fans in the stands, and at home, were holding their breath as they watched the two cars duel it out.
Junior, finally fed up with his brother’s actions, pulled a move that he could only have learned from his father, and got by his brother on the last lap, enabling himself to pass one more car to finish the race fourth.
“So, think we’ll have round two?” IreLyn asked.
“I certainly hope not.” Dakota answered, a split second before the camera zoomed in on Dale Jr.’s crew chief, Tony Eury Sr. up in Kerry’s crew chief’s face yelling at him.
“Oh my.” She whispered, half afraid Tony was going to throw a punch.
“Damn, don’t mess with the Budweiser team.” IreLyn murmured under her breath. She raised an eyebrow when Junior came into view from no where, pulling his Tony away from the other man. He leaned forward and whispered something in his ear, smiling slightly when Tony nodded and they both walked away, but not before glaring at the other crew.
“That was unexpected.” IreLyn said.
“Certainly was. I’m impressed.” Dakota grinned. They both jumped when the phone next to the couch rang. They looked at each other and smiled knowingly.
“Brett.” They both said at the same time.
With a happy smile, IreLyn reached over and grabbed Dale's cordless phone, hit the talk button, and brought it to her ear. "Hey baby." she said seductively, throwing a pillow at Dakota when she rolled her eyes and groaned. Giggling, Dakota got up and walked in the kitchen, giving IreLyn time alone to talk with Brett. She picked up her cell phone with a small sigh, punching in Dale’s cell number. She knew he wouldn’t answer, but she wanted to at least leave him a message to let him know she was thinking about him, congratulate him, and tell him she was proud of him for walking away from what could have been a rather nasty confrontation. Most importantly, she just wanted to tell him she loved him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Three
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Brett looked up from the trunk of his car where he was gathering together all his belongings, grinning when he recognized the red truck pulling up the drive.
“Hey man.” He called out a greeting after the driver side door opened and Junior maneuvered himself out.
“I see I’m not the only one getting in late.” Junior grinned as he walked over to his friend. Damn but it was good to be home. He hadn’t been in the best of moods since the race, and then to top it off his flight had been delayed by two hours due to fog. The only thing that had kept him from biting everyone’s heads off was the fact that Dakota was waiting for him inside.
“Yeah, damn traffic.” Brett muttered. He looked up, his eyes on the window of the apartment above the garage where he knew IreLyn was most likely sleeping.
“Think they’re still awake?” Dale asked.
“I hope not.” Brett grinned mischievously. “I’ve been thinking about waking Lyn up all night.”
“Much more info that I need, pal.” Junior grumbled shaking his head as he turned towards his house, instinctively knowing Dakota was there and not in the apartment with IreLyn.
“Like you haven’t been thinking the exact same things.” Brett said as he turned back to pick up the rest of his bags.
“Well, not the exact same things. I mean, how weird would that be, with IreLyn being your girl and all. Besides, don’t really want Kody kicking my ass.” Dale teased, ducking when Brett took a swing at him.
“That’s not what I meant, and you know it.” Brett glared at him, rolling his eyes when Junior simply shrugged and smirked at him. “Shut the hell up and help me get these bags.” Brett grumbled.
Dale laughed as he reached over and grabbed the remaining things from the trunk. He was suddenly in a much better mood than he’d been…well, basically since he’d left earlier in the week.
“I caught the end of the race.” Brett said as they walked towards the garage. He wasn’t sure how to approach the subject, not wanting to put Junior a foul mood, but needing to know how he was doing all the same. “I thought Tony was gonna loose it!”
Junior sighed and nodded. “We all did.”
“Have you talked to Kerry?” Brett asked.
Dale’s eyes darkened at the sound of his half-brothers name. “No.” he bit out. “And it’s best right now if it stays that way.” He added letting Brett know that he’d obviously already had this conversation, and Brett would be more than willing to bet it was with Dale and Kerry’s step-mother,Teressa.
Brett nodded as he let it go, knowing Junior well enough to know that when he was ready to talk about it, he would. They stepped in the garage and Dale immediately put down the bags and grinned over at his friend.
“Here ya go, have fun, good night.” Dale called as he started towards the door.
“Hey!” Brett called after him. “Aren’t you gonna help me take these upstairs?” he gestured to the bags at his feet.
“Nope.” Junior replied. “Got much more important things to be…doing.” He grinned as he waved and walked out, leaving Brett staring after him.
A slow sexy grin curved Brett’s lips as he turned towards the stairs. Junior was right, he thought to himself as he dropped the bags in his own hands and hurried up the stairs. There were something that could just wait until later…and some things that couldn’t.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Four
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Brett smiled as he placed his key in the lock and opened the door after unlocking it. He stood there for a moment, allowing his eyes to become adjusted to the darkness before he began walking through the apartment. He saw a dim light coming from the living room and knew that IreLyn had been waiting up for him, though she was most likely asleep now judging by the quiet.
Stepping into the living room, Brett found IreLyn asleep on the couch, her once perfectly hair and make-up messed up and her dress wrinkled. He looked into the dining room when the smell of food suddenly hit his nose, causing his stomach to rumble loudly. He felt horrible for being so late when he saw the table set for dinner. He knew that IreLyn had put a lot of effort into dinner only to have it wasted.
Turning his attention back to Lyn, Brett walked over to where she was lying on the couch. He knelt down by her head and reached out, his fingers brushing tenderly against her cheek. “Hey Lyn…” Brett whispered when she began to stir slightly. He smiled softly when her beautiful green eyes fluttered open.
“Hi,” IreLyn said, her voice soft and sleepy. “I tied to stay awake. I’m sorry.”
“It’s okay, baby. The fog is thick as hell out there. Traffic is backed up and barely moving. Junior just got in himself.”
“What?” Brett questioned when IreLyn didn’t say anything, but just gazed up at him.
“I just missed you so much. I’m so glad you’re here.” IreLyn replied, her voice shaking with emotion as she sat up and threw her arms around his neck, pulling him close to her. God, she loved him so much it made her heart ache and it brought tears to her eyes.
Brett moved back just enough to be able to see into her eyes. “I’m glad I’m here.” He whispered gruffly, the emotion in his voice matching IreLyn’s. Not wanting and not able to wait any longer, he closed the distance between them, his lips claiming hers in a burning soul-searing kiss that sent desire and need raging through their bodies.
As Brett gently eased her back down on the couch, IreLyn tangled her finger in his hair, intensifying the depth of the kiss in the process. She sighed contently when she felt Brett’s hands roaming over her body. But something was in the way…their clothes.
Sitting up partially, IreLyn pushed Brett away just enough to be able to get her hands between their bodies. She tugged his T-shirt loose from his jeans before lifting it off over his head and tossing it to the floor. She moaned passionately as her hands came into contact with his skin, but it wasn’t enough. She needed more.
Reaching around behind herself, IreLyn tried desperately to undo the buttons on the back of her dress. She needed to feel her skin against his…now! She groaned with frustration when she made no progress. Mercifully, Brett wrapped his arms around her, his agile fingers easily working the tiny buttons apart. Within seconds, Brett had her stripped of all her clothes. Moments later his were gone as well.
Brett paused for a moment to gaze down at the woman in his arms. He loved her so much that it almost made him ache physically. She was so beautiful and it never ceased to amaze him how incredibly lucky he was to have her. Especially after the way he’d treated her…he was so lucky.
He was startled out of his thoughts when he heard IreLyn whimper as she arched her hips against his. “Brett, please!” She begged. She needed him now!
Brett was more than willing to oblige to her needs..
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Five
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dale walked in the house, not surprised to find it dark. He grinned to himself as he moved silently towards his bedroom, his heart pounding with anticipation at what was waiting for him behind the closed door.
He opened the door, and his smile quickly faded when he found his bed perfectly made…and empty. He frowned as he looked behind him in the living room, not seeing Dakota on the couch. It suddenly hit him that Bud hadn’t met him at the door, like normal, which meant wherever Dakota was, Bud was with her.
He was about to turn away when he noticed a faint light coming from under the bathroom door, which was adjoined to his bedroom. He walked over and pushed the door open, his breath catching in his throat at the sight before him.
Dakota was sound asleep in his huge bathtub, her head leaned back, resting partially on Bud who too was asleep on the ledge behind her. Obviously she hadn’t been asleep long, because the bubbles from her bubble bath were still covering her up to her neck.
As he stepped closer to the tub, Bud opened his eyes and raised his head, yawning as he looked at his master, his eyes narrowed as if he dared him to try and wake Dakota.
“Hey Bud.” Dale said softly as he knelt down beside the tub. He reached out and rubbed Bud behind the ears before he turned all his attention to the sleeping woman before him.
He gently pushed one wet strand of hair that had come loose from her clip, back behind her ear, then trailed his finger down the side of her neck. She moaned softly and shifted slightly closer to him, but never opened her eyes.
“Kody,” he called softly, not wanting to scare her, but wanting her awake. He’d missed her so damn much, and no matter how much he was enjoying the sight before him, he wanted more…much more and that required her to wake up.
She slowly opened her eyes, and when she focused on him, she gave him a lazy sexy smile that surely would have driven him to his knees if he weren’t already there.
“Hey.” She greeted, her voice husky with sleep, her smile widening as she began to wake up more.
Dale didn’t say anything, he just leaned forward and captured her lips with his in a passionate kiss that left no doubt in her mind that he had missed her as much as she had him.
“I missed you.” He said gruffly when he pulled back.
“I missed you too.” She answered, then stretched a little. “Congratulations on fourth place.”
Dale simply shrugged, for the first time his mind far away from anything that had to do with NASCAR. “Want some company?” he grinned, that gleam in his eyes that let her know she really didn’t have much of a choice…not that she would have said no.
“Absolutely!” she agreed, moving back a little to give him room as he stood up. She fully expected him to start undressing, her heart pounding at the thought, so when he vaulted in with her, fully clothed, she was more than shocked.
“Junior!” she exclaimed, laughing as the water sloshed over the sides of the tub and bubbles flew everywhere, not only soaking the floor, but also Bud who growled as he jumped down to the floor, glaring at the two in the tub as he shook off and stalked out of the room.
Dakota giggled as she looked at Dale. “I think you pissed him off.” Her laughter was cut off when she suddenly felt his hands on her wet body, her breath catching in her throat.
“He’ll live.” Dale whispered, his voice gruff as he pulled her closer to him, his body reacting instantly to hers, and he silently cursed himself thinking that maybe he should have undressed before getting in.
“Mmm.” Was Dakota’s response as she pressed closer to him, her mouth finding his in a demanding kiss that left them both breathless.
“So,” Dale grinned as he pulled back slightly from the kiss. “Why don’t you show me how much you missed me?” he asked suggestively.
Dakota smiled seductively as she moved towards him, and before he knew it, she had him completely undressed, not even having much trouble with his wet jeans.
They paid no attention to all the water that was leaking over the side of the bathtub, especially when she moved to straddle him. His grip tightened on her hips as she slowly sank down on him, both of them moaning at the sensation.
Pushing all her wet hair back from her face, Dale looked deep into her eyes as she slowly began to move on him. “I love you.” He said, his voice deep with emotion.
Dakota paused in her movements and leaned forward to kiss him softly. “I love you too.” She smiled back at him, blinking against the tears she could feel threatening. Looking into his eyes, she knew she had found forever...and knew no matter what was thrown at them, they would face it together.
Little did she know that what was waiting just over the horizon would destroy that perfect happiness. She had know way of knowing that the perfect dream was about to turn into a horrifying nightmare for herself, Dale, IreLyn and Brett.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Six
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Well, you certainly look much happier this morning.” Dakota commented as she opened the door for IreLyn as Dale’s house where they were all meeting late the next morning for brunch.
“Speak for yourself.” IreLyn replied as she took in the bright smile on her friend’s face. “Where is Dale anyway?”
“He’s in the shower.” Dakota answered as she plopped down in a chair by the table and looked at IreLyn.
“So what are you making? I’m starving!” Dakota questioned Lyn. She giggled when IreLyn shot her a glare.
“You are helping me!” IreLyn said as she turned and walked to the refrigerator and opened the door, trying desperately to keep the smile back that was threatening.
“I’ll make coffee.” Dakota offered as she leaned back in her chair. She barely had time to duck when a package of cheese came flying in her direction.
“Hey! What was that for?” Dakota demanded as she sent IreLyn a fake glare.
“Omelets.” IreLyn answered nonchalantly as she took eggs, ham, peppers, and other ingredients out of the fridge and took them over to the counter.
“Smartas-“ IreLyn cut her off before she could even get the word out.
“Better than being a dumb ass!”
“Who’s a dumbass?” Brett questioned and he walked into the kitchen.
“You!” Dale answered as he came in right behind Brett.
“Screw you!” Brett snapped as he spun around and gave Junior his best glare.
Dale grinned as he laid his hand on Brett’s shoulder. “Sorry sweetheart, you are so not my type!”
"Fuck you!" Brett hissed.
"What did I just say?" Dale questioned, both he and Brett trying desperately to hold in their laughter.
"Alright children, do we have to separate you?" IreLyn asked Brett and Dale, trying to be serious, but she lost it when she heard Dakota giggling beside her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Seven
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Ahhh, this is much better than cooking.” IreLyn exclaimed as she slid into the booth.
After not being able to agree on what they wanted to eat at the house, Junior finally suggested they go to the little dinner down the road, that way they all could get anything they wanted. Dakota quickly agreed if it got her out of having to help cook. IreLyn couldn’t help but agree. Plus, this way, no one had to do dishes!
“Geez, I’m starving!” Dakota exclaimed as she scanned the menu, her stomach picking that moment to rumble loudly.
IreLyn rolled her eyes. “You’re always hungry! I swear I think you’re pregnant!” she grinned evilly, waiting for the reaction she knew she was going to get.
Dakota’s eyes went huge as she sputtered for words, her face going bright red. Dale had just taken a sip of his water, and he was just able to keep from spitting it across the table at IreLyn’s words. Brett was on the other side ducking down, just knowing he was about to get drenched.
Dakota finally found her voice. “IreLyn!” she ground out through her teeth. “That’s not funny! And I’m not pregnant!”
IreLyn grinned playfully, noticing the way Dakota wouldn’t look at Dale. “I know, I was just kidding. I was just referring to the way you eat.”
Dakota felt her lips twitch, knowing she wouldn’t be able to stay angry at her friend. She had just really caught her off guard with that one.
“Bitch.” She muttered good naturedly, throwing another glare at IreLyn, who just continued to grin at her, knowing Dakota really wasn’t mad.
“You’re bad.” Brett whispered in her ear, chuckling softly to himself. IreLyn simply shrugged and gave him her most innocent look. Then she turned and looked at Dale, who was still coughing on his water.
“Sorry, Junior.” She apologized, biting back the laughter. He simply waved his hand as he got himself under control.
Before Dale could say anything his cell phone rang. He glanced at it, saw the number and frowned. He really didn’t feel up to that conversation at the moment, so he decided to let his voice mail pick it up.
Dakota watch his expression, knowing immediately who it was. “You can’t avoid her forever, you know.” She said softly.
Dale sighed loudly, sitting back in the booth, pouting a little. “I know. But I’m just putting it off a little longer…at least until later this afternoon. I have a meeting at DEI later, and I know I can’t avoid her there.”
“I gather that’s Teresa.” Brett commented. Junior nodded, crossing his arms over his chest.
“She just wants to talk about Kerry.” He mumbled.
“Maybe you should talk about it. It might help.” IreLyn suggested.
Junior shrugged. “She’ll want us to hug and make up and for everything to be okay. And that’s just not going to happen.” He grumbled, the beginnings of his classic temper starting to rise to the surface at just the mere mention of his brother.
“Have you talked to Kerry and found out what his problem is?” Brett asked.
Dale shook his head. “I tried calling him last week, just to let him know I was over it and it was all cool, but he never called back. Then after the interview this past weekend at the track…and then the race, well the last thing I’ve wanted to do was talk to him.”
Dakota put a comforting hand on his arm, easily reading how much this was bothering him. No matter how angry he was, it was still his brother, and deep down he was hurting and confused by Kerry’s actions and behavior as of late.
Dale smiled at her and laced his finger through hers, feeling much better just knowing she was there by his side, and also knowing she wouldn’t push him into trying talk to and fix things with his brother.
IreLyn looked over at Brett and they both shared a secret smile, having seen the look that passed between Dakota and Dale. She and Brett know all to well what that look meant. They shared that same look quite often between themselves.
The topic was changed to something much lighter when the food arrived. They were all laughing at the friendly argument going on between Junior and Brett when Dakota felt it.
She looked around the small crowded diner, not seeing anything out of the ordinary, but she was unable to shake the feeling that they were being watched. Which, wasn’t unlikely since they were with Brett and Dale, who were looked at all the time. But this time, it felt different.
“Hey, you okay?” IreLyn asked softly from across the table, seeing the expression on her friend’s face.
Taking one final sweep of the restaurant, Dakota turned her attention back to IreLyn. “Uh, yeah. I just got this funny feeling. It’s nothing.” She dismissed it and turned back to her food, missing the two tall figures that slipped out of the diner.
***
“She looked right at us!” Logan exclaimed, breathing a sigh of relief that they hadn’t been caught.
Jean-Claude nodded, wanting nothing more than to go back in and take her away from those people who were keeping her from him. He glanced over at Logan when he spoke again.
“I can’t believe she didn’t recognize us!” Logan laughed. When he had first come up with the disguises, he’s been unsure they would work, but obviously he had nothing to be concerned about.
His heart pounded as he remembered IreLyn sitting there, looking like the sweet angel she was. He closed his eyes, imagining her looking at him the way she had been that bastard with her.
“Soon, my love.” He whispered silently. His eyes snapped open when Jean-Claude’s cell phone rang suddenly.
Seeing the number, Jean-Claude’s eyes instantly lit up. “Be quiet.” He ordered Logan. “This is what we’ve been waiting for.” He grinned as he pushed the talk button and brought it to his ear.
“Well, hello, Kerry. I can’t tell you how glad I am to hear from you."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Eight
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“So y’all gonna be able to make it to the race Sunday?” Dale asked as he drove back to his place after they’d finished breakfast. He knew that Dakota was going to be there, but he really hoped that IreLyn and Brett could make it as well since the race was right there in North Carolina.
“I took Monday off from work just for you, Junior.” IreLyn answered from the backseat where Brett was sitting beside her. She smiled to herself, unable to believe what a huge fan of Nascar she had become in the six months that she had known Dale. It really was one of ‘her things’ but having not been exposed to it while she was growing up, she never thought to tune into it on TV or attend the races when they were close by.
“Hey, I thought you took Monday off for me.” Brett whined as he crossed his arms over his chest and pretended to pout. He had to bite his lip to keep back the smirk that was threatening when he saw the look on Lyn’s face.
Dakota turned around in her seat and noticed the teasing twinkle in Brett’s eye and decided to play along. She looked at IreLyn and frowned. “What the hell do ya mean, ya took the day off just for Junior? You all got something going that I should know about?” She questioned while trying to keep the laughter in when she Lyn’s eyes widen in surprise.
“I’m really hurt.” Brett stated as he slumped down in the seat. He ducked his head, some of his hair covering his as he smile that he’d been trying to hold back broke through.
“Very funny.” IreLyn grumbled when she saw the smile on both Brett and Dakota’s faces. “You know what I meant.” IreLyn said with a pout of her own.
“Awww, Lyn…” Brett whispered as he snuggled closer to her. He took her face in his hands and softly kissed her lips. “You know we were just teasing.”
“I know,” IreLyn whispered softly, a smile on her lips. “I just wanted to see which one of us was going to grovel first…And it looks like it was you.”
They drove the remaining way back laughing and talking to Dale’s house. They had to finish packing before they had to leave early the next morning. They were completely oblivious to the black car following closely behind them.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Eighty Nine
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Brett, IreLyn and Dakota all looked up as Dale walked over to them. “Driver meeting over already?” Brett asked, taking in the irritated look in Junior’s face.
“Yeah.” He grumbled.
“What happened?” IreLyn asked.
Dale sighed as he stepped up to them, a small smile touching his lips when he felt Dakota’s hand on his arm, offering him more comfort than anyone else could at this point.
“They warned me and Kerry to stay away from each other…on and off the track.” He sighed.
They all nodded, having expected as much. Dakota bit her lip, feeling the tension radiating off Junior, knowing she had to find some way to loosen him up before the race, not wanting his anger towards his brother to affect his performance during the race.
“Hey, have I mentioned lately just how sexy you look in that suit?” she whispered to him, grinning at him. It did the trick. A sexy smirk crossed his face as he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer.
“Not in the last half hour.” He answered, dipping his head so his lips were next to her ear, sending chills through her body. “But I have a great idea, you can show me later.” He wagged his eyebrows suggestively at her.
IreLyn giggled as Brett rolled his eyes. “Get a room you two.” He teased, laughing when Junior just flipped him off.
After giving Dakota a quick but hot kiss, Dale stepped back. “I gotta run, driver introduction is about to start. I’ll see y’all after the race.”
“Good luck.” They all said in unison.
***
“Whew, so far so good.” Brett sighed with relief as he, IreLyn and Dakota sat in the Budweiser pit, watching the cars as they circled the track. “He’s staying clear of Kerry…or Kerry is staying clear of him.”
Dakota cast a sideways glance at him. “It’s only been two laps.” She muttered. Brett shrugged and grinned.
“Hey, it’s a start!”
“I think we’ll have an incident free weekend.” IreLyn predicted, but just as the words left her mouth, all hell broke loose.
She jumped as Dakota gasped, surging to her feet, her eyes wide with fear, her face draining of color as the cars started into turn three…all except Junior. Instead of turning, the car shot straight into the wall…head on.
“Holy shit!” Brett exclaimed. He too was on his feet in a heartbeat, as the Budweiser pit crew sprang into action.
“Junior, you okay man?” they could hear Dale’s spotter, Ty Norris asking over the radio.
“Junior?” he asked again when he didn’t get an answer.
“Dale, you alright?” Tony Sr. asked this time, the urgency in his voice chilling everyone to the bone. Again, there was no answer.
Dakota stood frozen, her eyes glued to the crumpled metal that used to be the Budweiser car. In no time the paramedics were on the scene. Everyone could tell they were working frantically to get Junior out of the car…but what scared them the most was that there was still no answer from the driver.
IreLyn and Brett both moved on either side of Dakota, both putting their arms around her, feeling her trembling uncontrollably.
“It’s going to be okay.” Brett said soothingly, trying to convince Dakota as much as himself.
“Why isn’t he answering?” Dakota whimpered, her voice shaking as much as her body was. Never before had she ever known such paralyzing fear.
Before either Brett or IreLyn could say anything, Tony Sr. was in front of them. “They’ve got him out of the car.” He informed them. He looked at Dakota, giving her a small smile of reassurance. “He’s was knocked unconscious, but the paramedics said he’s regained consciousness and is breathing fine. They are going to fly him to the nearest hospital for testing just to be safe. I know you three want to go with him, so if you come with me, we’re gonna get to the hospital to meet him there.”
Dakota stepped forward, her eyes pleading with Tony to tell her the truth. “Is he going to be okay?” she asked softly.
Tony pulled her in for a tight hug. He truly liked this woman, and knew she was the one for his nephew. “Of course. He’s an Earnhardt, and they are made as tough as they come. Come on, let’s hurry, the paramedics said he’s asking for you.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Ninety
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Well, it looks like nothing serious. Just some bumps and bruises and a mild concussion." Dr. Spain began explaining to the people who were waiting on news about Dale in the hospital waiting room. "He'll have to miss a few races because of the concussion and he'll be sore for a few days, but overall, he was very lucky." The doctor finished and then turned to leave. He stopped after taking only a few steps and turned around again.
"We'll be keeping him overnight for observation. They're taking him upstairs now and once he gets settled you all can see him for a few minutes."
Once the doctor had left, IreLyn walked over to where Dakota was sitting slumped in her chair, her head bent to hide the tears that were streaming down her face. Wrapping her arms around her friend's shoulder, IreLyn took the seat next to Dakota.
"He 's going to be just fine. Just a mild concussion." IreLyn said softly, trying to ease Dakota's fears.
Dakota instantly jumped to her feet as her emotions got the best of her. She spun around and glared at IreLyn. "Just a concussion? Just a concussion?" Dakota nearly screamed, making IreLyn jump. "This should have never even happened! What the hell went wrong?" Dakota demanded IreLyn to tell her.
Rising to her feet as well, Lyn carefully placed her hands on Dakota's arm. "Kody, I don't know, but you heard the doctor, Junior is going to be just fine." IreLyn again tried to reassure her friend.
"How the hell do you know that? He could be fine right now, but..." Dakota trailed off, unable to finish her statement. An instant later, she broke into tears again.
IreLyn pulled her into a tight hug. She soothed her friend the best she could without saying any words this time. A few moments later, Dakota pulled back and looked at IreLyn.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you. I didn't mean to. Things are a little bit crazy right now.” Dakota explained, feeling bad for going off on Lyn like that when she was only trying to help.
IreLyn gave Dakota a smile. “That’s okay. I understand.” She said as she gave Dakota another quick hug before moving back again. “Just don’t let it happen again.” She warned teasingly.
Before Dakota could say anything, Brett walked over to where they were standing. “You okay?” He asked Kody, his eyes filled with concern after seeing what had gone on .
“Yeah, I’m fine.” Dakota smiled sheepishly, still feeling bad for the way that she had acted.
“Good.” Brett commented sincerely. “The nurse just came in and said that we could see Dale now.”
“Oh good!” Dakota’s voice was filled with relief. “Let’s go!”
“You go on in first.” IreLyn told Dakota when they reached the closed door leading to Dale’s private room. “We’ll be in, in a little bit.” She knew Kody would want some time alone with Dale first.
“Thanks.” Dakota said softly before opening the door and stepping into the room.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Ninety One
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
IreLyn sighed as the door closed behind Dakota, her heart going out to both Dakota and Dale. She herself had been scared to death when Junior had hit the wall…and even knowing he was okay, she still wouldn’t be completely reassured until she saw him for herself. That in mind, she could only imagine how Dakota had been feeling.
She turned her head and smiled softly at Brett when he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close to him. She rested her head on his chest, needing his strength and comfort.
“You okay?” Brett asked quietly. He was shook up himself, but it wasn’t the first time he’d seen Junior wreck. He’d seen far worse looking wrecks than the one they had just witnessed, but every time his heart would drop and he wouldn’t start breathing properly until he knew Junior was okay.
He also knew this was the first real crash Dakota and IreLyn had ever witnessed, and knew they were both dangerously close to the edge of loosing it.
IreLyn bit her lip as it began to tremble, snuggling close to him as she sniffled. “I…” she trailed off when her voice cracked, feeling Brett’s arms tighten around her. “I guess I never truly realized just how dangerous this sport is.”
Brett pulled back and looked down at her. “He’s fine.” He stated.
IreLyn shook her head, her eyes brimming with tears. “But like Dakota said, ‘this time’. What about next time?” she shuddered at the thought.
“Hey, don’t think like that.” Brett commanded sternly. “Otherwise every time he climbs into a racecar you’ll drive yourself insane.”
“I just might anyway.” She muttered, running a hand through her hair.
“Look, Junior and every other guy out there know the risks.” Brett said, reminding himself as well as IreLyn. “No matter what, there will always be a ‘what if’. But NASCAR has done a really great job of making it safer for all the drivers. And today was just proof of that. Instead of being seriously injured, as he well could have if it weren’t for all the safety devices, Junior pretty much walked away.”
IreLyn nodded, taking a deep breath. “You’re right. I’m overreacting.”
Brett hugged her again. “No you’re not. You’re reacting the exact same way I did when I first saw him wreck.”
“Really?” she asked smiling up at him. Brett grinned.
“Yup. But Junior’s pep talk to me wasn’t so…uh…nice.” He laughed at the memory.
“What happened?” IreLyn asked.
“Well, basically once I got to see him, I was freaked, although trying really hard to hide it, but Junior saw right through me. He basically told me to quit being a puss, and if I cried on him he’d kick my ass.”
IreLyn burst out laughing, able to picture it all too well. “I’m sure he was a little more colorful with the way he said it though, wasn’t he?” she giggled.
“You know Junior.” Brett said as he took her hand. “Come on, let’s go get a drink and give Dakota a few more minutes alone with Junior.”
“Thank you.” IreLyn said before took two steps. Brett stopped and turned to look at her.
He leaned down and kissed her softly. “I love you.” He looked deep into her eyes as he said the words, letting her know just how serious he was.
“I love you too, Brett."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter Ninety Two
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Hi.” Dakota said softly as she closed the door behind her after walking into the room and saw Dale lying on the bed across the room gazing at her. She moved to join him, but froze in her tracks before she’d even taken two steps as reality suddenly hit her again.
“Hey, you okay?” Dale asked when she didn’t move any further. He thought that he could see her trembling, but he could be sure as his vision was a bit blurry due to the concussion.
Dakota shook her head slightly as she pushed her fear back down, knowing that she couldn’t let Junior see it. Putting on her best smile, she walked across the room and sat down on the bed beside Dale.
“Shouldn’t I be asking you that?” She asked as she reached out and tenderly caressed his cheek.
Dale closed his eyes as he held her hand tighter against his cheek. He sighed slightly as he let his head fall back against the pillow. “Apart from a huge headache, I think I’ll survive.” He told her, his lips twitched up into a slight disheartened smirk.
“I’m sorry, Dale.” Dakota said easily seeing how angry and disappointed he was at the way things had turned out. Tears burned her eyes, but she managed to keep them back for the moment.
“It’s not your fault, baby.” Dale told her. He would never, ever blame her for what happened that day.
“I know…but I’m still sorry.” Dakota paused for a moment before asking the question that she didn’t want to ask, but at the same time, had to.
“What happened today?”
Dale didn’t say anything for a few minutes as the thought back for what seemed like the thousandth time in the last few hours. “I’m not sure really. The bolts on the steering wheel must have worked themselves loose over time. One second the wheel was attached to the steering column and the next second it was in my hands and I was heading straight for the wall. I don’t remember much after that…it’s all kind of fuzzy.”
“But how could have that happened?” Dakota questioned, her mind searching for answers. “Aren’t the cars checked thoroughly before every race?”
“Yeah, they are.” Dale answered, his eyes growing dark. “And you can bet that this will be investigated.” Dale stated, determined to find out what or who had caused his crash.