Unchartered Waters ✅

Chapter 138: An Awkward Meeting

Chase takes a deep breath as he stands at the back of the team meeting, listening to the comments offered by each of the crew chiefs in the room. 

It was a Talladega tradition. Chevrolet would get each of the drivers and crew chiefs together, speaking of the importance of working together to ensure the manufacture got the victory. It was during these 20 minutes everyone would discuss their plans for the race ahead, and how they wanted to work together. They would also address where things went wrong in previous restrictor plate races, as well as ways to collect that.

It was normally just par for the course, without a second thought. However, it was a moment that saw a slew of emotions for Chase as he looked over at Greg Ives, seeing someone else in the Ally Racing colors. He didn't have any ill-will feelings against Noah, thought he was talented and would certainly make his mark in the sport. He had seen the success in the Xfinity Series, and understood the decision to put him in the car for the weekend. However, it just didn't feel right one bit. 

"Are you okay?" Kyle asked as they got ready to leave the meeting, earning a simple nod in response from Chase. "Obviously you've seen Alex this past week. How is he doing?"

"Headaches, soreness, just a mix of emotions over it and feelings that are mixed in with what it's causing," Chase rambles off robotic style, actually preferring to not be having this conversation right now. "The doctor said it could be a couple weeks with a couple different symptoms and things going on. He has a series of exercises that he's supposed to be doing." 

"Well hopefully he - and Kurt for that matter - are back soon." Chase nods his head, knowing that'd certainly make himself feel better. He then goes to walk away, thankful the meeting was over, as a hand lands on his shoulder. "I know better than a lot of people here what you're feeling. If you need someone to talk to, or anything, come see me." 

"Thanks, but I'll be fine." He almost added that he'd have Ryan to lean on as well, but he didn't need Kyle knowing more details than necessary. He already thought it was too much that his teammate was aware of the shared connection.

As he makes his way to the garage area, he pulls out his phone, pulling up a familiar number.

That entire meeting just felt so weird.... 

Ryan couldn't help but smile in reading the message, knowing the reminders of Alex not being there were everywhere - adding more sting to their feelings.

I almost went back to the motorcoach to let Finn, Sturgis and Fletch out - then I remembered the dogs were left with an important job this weekend. 

Chase smiles, hopeful they were all behaving for his parents. While the dogs were great comfort and cuddlers all together, they sometimes caused enough trouble to frustrate you beyond anything. Normally Finn or Fletch would start by finding it, and Sturgis joined in the fun. 

I was looking forward to this weekend with him, to be honest. It was the perfect chance to work together. 

Ryan knew of the manufacture plan, and the jokes that would follow in "bumps" being traded between them. He chuckled as he remembered the teasing he offered back in April about those to the pair after a practice session.

Just know that Noah probably doesn't want the same offering.

Chase couldn't help but break out with a laugh in reading the message as his mind immediately repeated a bunch of the jokes from the past. The laugh, though, slowly dies down into a sigh as it was just another reminder of Alex not being there that weekend. It was just a reminder of Alex not being in the racecar. It was another reminder of Alex not feeling well. He hated to watch him go through it. He hated even more to not be there to offer comfort and support for what he was going through.

As long as he's going to be okay, that's what matters. 

He will be, Chase. He has to be....

Chase keeps his eyes focused, resisting the urge to glance into the Ally Racing stall, not needing yet another reminder that Alex wasn't there. Instead, he focused on the No. 9 Chevrolet, knowing the task at hand. It had to be the only task at hand if he wanted to move forward in the playoffs. He was there to do a job, and it was time to get the job done.