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Chapter Text

“There's 100 meters in the race! Only 100 meters to go! This is the last battle! Will Tokai Teio be able to catch up to Biwa Hayahide?”

It was about an hour after midnight. The Mejiro estate was silent with no lights turned on. One the family members, Mejiro McQueen was in her room, laid on her bed, unable to sleep. On her screen was the replay of the recent Arima Kinen. She couldn't tell how many times she had watched it, for she had already lost count. She stared at the screen as the sound coming from her phone got louder when the crowd cheered for a shorter Uma Musume clad in a regal blue and white outfit who had just taken the lead close to the finish line, running as if she had to win that race no matter what.

“Tokai Teio! Tokai Teio passes her! Tokai Teio takes a slight lead! But it's a narrow one! Biwa Hayahide will be looking to catch up!”

From the corner of McQueen's eye, a few drops of tears flowed down her already damp face, though she paid them no mind. She wasn't feeling nowhere near as close as when she watched the real thing firsthand, but she couldn't help but feel emotional as she watched Teio run her heart out in the Arima Kinen after suffering three fractures in the span of a year and not being able to race on the turf throughout its whole entirety. She had witnessed her friend fall down and climb up again, even when all seemed lost. McQueen had been her rock, her goal this whole time, but now, she found herself in bed with an injury, their roles reversed. ‘How ironic.’ she thought. Though she could still walk and live normally, it was believed that only a miracle could have her racing again, and McQueen was distraught at the idea of breaking her promise to Teio. She spent the whole time during Teio's hiatus focusing on being worthy of being her goal, always pushing her friend to keep improving, but fate had other plans, placing her at her lowest point right as Teio was finally recovering. She thought about giving up herself, if not for her encouragement. As McQueen was still collecting herself, she witnessed Teio run the Arima Kinen, where she pulled off a miracle. Now, it would only be natural for McQueen's to create one herself.

“Tokai Teio! Tokai Teio is in the lead! Tokai Teio, a miraculous return!”

McQueen finished, once more, watching as Teio slowed down to a halt and the crowd in the Nakayama course shouted her name. She locked her screen, putting her phone to the side and letting out a long sighing as she wiped the tears on her face.

‘Teio… I want to race by your side again…’

She stared at the ceiling, lost in thought. Nothing would make her happier than to be back on the turf, training with her friends in Team Spica, but mostly Teio. For now, she had to wait and see if her leg would respond well and that frustrated her. She had already accomplished so much for the Mejiro family, her grandmother had claimed so, yet she felt she could still do much more. More than anything, though, she wanted to beat Teio. It wasn't out of the selfish desire of proving herself, but about being Teio's equal She had promised that she would do so, and she would do everything she could to fulfill that promise. She looked at her phone briefly to check the time, realising that she was still awake late into the night. She settled once again, her eyes finally starting to feel heavy, as she sighed deeply.

‘Wait for me… Teio…’

————————————————————————

The morning Sun shone over Tracen Academy, as a new week started for its students. Some came together in small groups, or in pairs, chatting happily as they commuted from their dorms to the academy. Others arrived alone, having spent the weekend at home, meeting the others as they reached the gates.

Teio approached the gates with a spring in herself, finding a woman dressed in green standing politely besides them.

“Good morning, Tazuna!” She greeted her, getting a soft smile in response.

“Good morning, Tokai Teio!” The secretary greeted back as Teio passed her.

She continued further into the academy, as more Uma Musume arrived and went to meet their friends. Teio kept looking around, trying to find any of her teammates. Further ahead, she recognised two girls who were walking together, appearing to be in the middle of an argument.

‘Those two…’ she thought to herself, speeding up to catch up to them.

“I already told you! Those posters on your side of the room are already too much! You don't need to buy another one!” One of them, with red hair, told the other.

“Like I'd expect you to understand a thing about bikes! You're more focused about your reputation as a model student to even understand your own room-mate's needs!” The other one, featuring black hair and a rougher voice interjected.

“Huh? Tell me again why having posters on every square inch of the wall is necessary?”

“Hey, my posters don't take that much wall space!”

“You two are already arguing and the day barely started.” Teio, having caught up, told them with a amused grin.

“She started it!” Her friends said both at the same time.

“Alright, alright… Are the others here?” The shorter girl asked.

“We just arrived, so I'm not sure. Besides, I was trying to make Scarlet understand why it's okay for me to add another poster.” The black haired girl told her.

“Vodka, you don't even need that many posters! Every time I look at your side of the room makes me want to gag!” Scarlet fumed.

“You're only looking because you want to!” Vodka refuted.

“You two are already at it…” Another voice, much gentler joined in next to Teio.

“It was her!” Vodka and Scarlet said, once again in unison.

“Hello, Spe! Good morning!” Teio greeted her friend who was holding a carrot in her hand.

“Good morning, everyone! Today is looking good for training, isn't it?” Special Week asked them as she proceeded to munch on her carrot.

“Now that you mention it, it does feel nice, even though it's early January.” Scarlet agreed.

“Yeah, I thought it'd be colder, but it's quite nice.” Vodka joined in.

‘Nice job, Spe!’ Teio thought to herself, seeing as the other two finally stopped arguing, at least for now.

“So, Gold Ship isn't here yet… That only leaves McQueen.” Vodka noted.

Ears perking at the name, Teio looked at the gates. She looked for purple hair, the colour of her friend's hair, but she failed to find her, nor did she see her family's car by the gates.

“They'll probably be here soon” she told them. “McQueen wouldn't be late.”

“So you think I'd be late? Thanks…” A dry voice sounded behind her, startling the small girl.

“I’m sorry if I'm not elegant and composed like McQueen, but I can arrive on time.” The new arrival, a tall girl with white hair said, pretending to be offended as she stood on a segway.

“Want to talk about that time you left the gate late because you weren't trying to climb onto the other gate next to you?” Scarlet said.

“Hey, that girl was copying me! I just wanted to face her directly!”

“Whatever you say, Gold Ship.” The red hair said dryly.

Teio smiled at her friends exchange. She looked behind her briefly, searching for any signs of McQueen. She searched and searched, but couldn't find any signs of her arrival. She felt a tinge of disappointment for not seeing her friend. ‘Did her leg start hurting again?’ She thought to herself.

“Teio, don't worry!” Special Week told her, trying to reassure her. “McQueen is probably almost here.”

“Yeah, she probably just found traffic on her way here.” Gold Ship commented.

“By, the way, Spe…” Vodka suddenly called. “How's Suzuka doing?”

“Oh, she's doing great!” The other girl replied, as she was already halfway through eating her carrot, her eyes shining at the mention of her room-mate abroad. “She's having lots of fun! I can't wait until she comes back so I can race her!”

“Oh, you did say that last year, didn't you?” Scarlet joined in. “You kept saying on how much you wanted to race on the same race as her. It must be nice having a rival to look forward to race.”

“It is!” Special Week agreed excitedly. “I'm so jealous you get to race Vodka every time. You two are great rivals!”

“Huh?” The two girls said at the same time.

“Hehe… Here we go again…” Teio chuckled in amusement.

She reflected on Special Week's words. She could understand her friend's desire to race Suzuka on the turf very well. The entirety of the last year was all about recovering only to be able to race McQueen again. She still remembers her words after the Spring Tenno Sho, how'd she only feel she truly defeated Teio when they raced a race of a distance that Teio excelled at. A bittersweet taste filled her mouth. At first, she raced because she wanted to be like her idol, Symboli Rudolf, but after her injury and missing her last crown at the Kikuka Sho, she found herself lost. She found a new objective in McQueen, hoping she'd at least be able to remain undefeatable, though that dream too was crushed. Despite that, after almost giving up after a third fracture, she rose above it all for one reason only: Her promise with McQueen. They had been friends turned rivals, but never lost respect for each other, and Teio wouldn't have been able to be where she was if it wasn't for McQueen. Now she had recovered, but her rival was now the one in position she found herself in previously. Against all odds, she miraculously won the Arima Kinen, creating a miracle both for her and McQueen. Now all she could do was hope that McQueen would be able to race again soon, a thought that left her with a deep longing.

“Teio, are you okay?” She heard Scarlet's voice say, worry evident on her face.

“Oh… Sorry, I spaced out a bit.” She told them. “Anyway, McQueen should be here soon, so let's wait a bit longer.”

“I don't think we need to.” Gold Ship told the group.

Seeing her friends' confused faces, Gold Ship pointed towards the gate, and sure enough, a black limo had just arrived, the driver standing near it holding a red carpet. He skilfully unrolled it in front of the door to the passenger seat, turning his attention to the person sit inside, opening the door for them. Out of it, a girl with long purple hair emerged and stepped onto the side-walk, thanking her butler on her way out. On her left knee, she wore a compression sleeve, easily noticed against her uniform's white stockings. Despite this, she didn't show any signs of weakness and simply walked through the gate as the driver got back into the car and drove away.

Teio observed, a smile forming on her face, as the girl greeted the secretary and her eyes scanned the campus as if searching for someone. Feeling he heart swell, Teio began jogging her direction, raising her hand in the air.

“McQueen!”

Hearing her name being called, the girl with purple hair looked towards the source of the voice, her mouth breaking into a gentle smile upon realising the caller as she approached.

“Good morning, Teio!” She looked behind her friend, noticing the rest of the grouped who had followed her. “Good morning, everyone!”

“We were starting to worry about you.” Gold Ship, snickered. “I thought I'd see the famous Mejiro McQueen be late for the first time.”

“I…” McQueen stuttered, a faint blush forming on her cheeks. “There was an accident and we took a bit longer thank expected, but even so, we always give ourselves enough time for unexpected inconveniences.”

“Hmph… You're no fun…” The taller girl mused, crossing her arms behind her head, almost losing her balance, forgetting she was still mounted on her segway.

“How's your leg doing?” Special Week, who had finished eating her carrot, changed the subject, pointing at the sleeve hugging McQueen's leg.

“I still can't race just yet, so I won't be able to participate in training directly, but it doesn't affect my ability to walk.” She explained.

“Man…” Vodka joined in. “It's almost as if our team is cursed… First Suzuka, then Teio and now McQueen…”

“Don't worry.”  Teio interrupted. “I had three fractures, so I had my share and the share of other two people.” She stated as if her injuries were nothing but a scratch.

“Oh! I guess your other two fractures count for Vodka and Scarlet, then!” Gold Ship told them, smiling slightly.

“Eh? What about me?” Special Week interjected, worry on her face.

The group laughed at their friend's worry, as Gold Ship joked that she could use her segway, “S.S Golshi”, should she find herself injured, much to her friend's horror.

Teio looked briefly at McQueen, who was laughing softly, her mouth covered by her hand. “She seems to be doing okay.” She thought, as she felt herself winding down from tension she didn't even realise she was holding in. McQueen glanced at her briefly, throwing her a smile before looking back at Special Week who was being calmed down by Scarlet, as Vodka said she'd help her if she ever got injured.

“We should probably get going.” McQueen suggested to the group. “We wouldn't want to leave our trainer waiting.”

“Oh, yeah…” Vodka joined in. “Are you joining us too?”

McQueen looked at her friend, smiling nervously. “I don't think I'll be able to do much, but maybe the trainer will have me going some light exercises. I'll need to work my way back into form slowly.”

“We should all hang out later, today!” Special Week suggested. “That way McQueen won't feel lonely.”

“Spe…” started Gold Ship, mimicking beginning to tear up. “You're always so nice… I'm proud of you…”

The group watched in amusement as Gold Ship leaned onto Special Week's shoulder, pretending to sob uncontrollably, much to the other girl's amused embarrassment. They walked together as they chatted about their weekend and their plans for the year that had only begun recently. Teio was asked what race she would be in next, but she couldn't give them an answer, as her return after a long hiatus had only just happened during the Arima Kinen just a few weeks ago, so, for the time being, her focus was getting back to training and making sure she was in top form to run at her full power again.

They reached Spica's headquarters, finding their trainer already waiting, drafting plans and tactics on the whiteboard.

“Good morning, everyone!” He greeted, getting the same reply from his trainees. He glanced sideways to McQueen, noting her presence. “McQueen, it's great to have you back, did the doctor allow you to get back to training?”

“He says that my leg is in better condition to start slowly working on restrengthening it.” She explained to him. “He warned me to pay attention to how my leg reacts and to stop if I feel pain.”

“So, no running for you, yet…” he mused, scratching his chin. “We can start working on it slowly, but I'm only letting you go back to running once the doctor tells you can do it.”

“Of course.” McQueen replied, bowing slightly. “Thank you for everything.”

“Alright, everyone.” The trainer called, raising his voice slightly to be better heard. “McQueen might not be joining you on your exercises just yet, but I expect you to keep giving me your best performance. Our rivals keep getting stronger, so we just need to get even stronger in response.”

The girls nodded at him as he moved near the board holding his clipboard.

“Scarlet, Vodka, I'm seeing developments on your running, keep it up, we'll work on your strengths again today.” He told them, as they nodded. “Spe, it won't take long for Suzuka to come back, so if you want to run against her, then you need to be able to catch up to her speed, so we'll work on that.” He instructed her, a look of determination with a hint of excitement appearing on her face. “Gold Ship…”

The trainer stared at the tallest of the group. He grumbled to himself, then proceeded to look away to the surprise of no one, for it was an well known fact that Gold Ship was just Gold Ship.

“Finally, Teio.” He said, looking at the remaining member. “Good job at the Arima Kinen! Your surprised everyone, so let's work on making sure you really are in top form after your hiatus.”

“Leave it to me!” Teio proudly proclaimed. “If I want to beat Prez, then I'm not satisfied until I become better than her! Besides, I have someone that I really want to beat, so I have to be in top form for her.” She said, taking a side glance at McQueen, making her break a smile. As she looked back at the trainer, she could swear McQueen's eyes were still on her, but she shrugged it off.

“That's the spirit!” The trainer encouraged. “We'll work on the details as we reach the field. Get changed and we'll meet there.”

Giving the girls privacy, the trainer left the room so they could change into their tracksuits. As they did so, Teio couldn't help but look at McQueen's injured leg, where her brace hugged her knee. She stared at it, deep in thought, as if it had insulted her.“Will she be alright?” She thought. She knew McQueen wouldn't push herself too far, especially now that she trusted to show vulnerability, at least to Teio, but she still couldn't shake the nagging thought in her head that anything could go south in the blink of an eye. She knew this very well since she had this happen to her before.

“You don't need to worry about me.” She heard a voice tell her.

Teio looked up to find McQueen reassuring her. Special Week took a quick glance to watch their interaction, then focused back on changing, smiling to herself.

“I know…” Teio chuckled lightly, scratching her head. “It's just…” She tried to explain, the words escaping her. “Just don't push yourself too much. You still have to race me so I can beat you.” She told her, hoping her words would be enough to make her worries about McQueen's wellbeing go unnoticed.

“Oh?” McQueen said, eyebrows raising and throwing her a defiant look. “And who said I'd let you win? Once I'm fully recovered, I'll make sure you'll have a different reason to worry about me.”

Teio looked at McQueen, then found herself breaking into a huge grin, followed by gentle laughter, which confused the girl.

“It's nice to see you like this.” She told her as her laughter subsided. “I guess I really don't need to worry, then.” Teio shot McQueen a small smile.

Moved by her rival's words, the purple-haired girl felt her lips curve into a smile. Shortly after, however, her grew serious, which concerned Teio at first. She didn't have to worry for long, however, as, in a practised motion, McQueen withdrew a table tennis paddle and turned around just in time to deflect a dice that Gold Ship had just thrown at her. The dice hit Gold Ship square in her eye, as she quickly covered it with her hands, grovelling on the ground while screaming.

“Oh my…” Was all that McQueen said.

"Are you alright, Gold Ship?" Special Week asked.

“I thought you had gotten a helmet just for that.” Vodka teased.

“Seriously, you'd think she'd give her a break while she was injured.” Scarlet scoffed at her teammate, having finished changing.

“Everyone!” Special Week called holding her phone in her hand. “Let's send a picture to Suzuka so she can see that McQueen is doing better!”

“Oh! Great idea!” Vodka agreed.

“Yeah… that sounds nice…” Gold Ship joined in, rubbing her eye, while McQueen stared at her.

“Alright, everyone! Say cheese!” Special Week called out.

“Cheese!” They all said in unison.

The girls posed for the photo at Special Week's call. Teio gently leaned against McQueen's shoulder, surprising her briefly. As she did a peace sign to the camera, she couldn't help but notice how warm it felt to be into contact with McQueen, as the latter smiled at camera. The remaining members posed for the camera, Gold Ship making an exaggerated pose. They then looked at Special Week's phone to examine the photo they just took.

As her friends examined the photo, Teio looked at the shoulder that had just been leaning against McQueen. ‘It feels cold’. She noted. She didn't know why this simple gesture lingered in her mind, but she couldn't deny the fact that the absence of contact stung a little. “What am I thinking so much about this? I do this all the time! Oh well…”

“Alright, everyone the last one to get there…” Gold Ship started before catching herself, guilt flooding her face. “Oh… Sorry, McQueen…” she said, looking back at her injured teammate.

“It's alright…” McQueen told her.

Though McQueen's face didn't show it, Teio couldn't help but feel that the reality of the injury was getting to McQueen, as her mind began to wander again. ‘She'll be alright, won't she?’ She brushed the thought aside as she watched Gold Ship offering her S.S. Golshi for McQueen to use, who politely declined it.

The Spica members made their way to the training grounds, the trainer already waiting for them. Some other students could already be seen training, Teio recognising some of them as Team Rigil's members. She looked around in hopes of finding her idol, the student council president, but failed to find her. ‘Maybe she's doing student council stuff.’ She thought as she looked ahead.

Noticing their arrival, their trainer gave them a short order to begin on stretches, hoping to give more instructions afterwards.

Each girl began doing their stretches, Gold Ship doing a Rubik's cube at the same time. ‘Why does she always have one with her at all times?’ Teio thought to herself. It didn't matter how many times she saw her friend do it, she could never comprehend why Gold Ship always seemed to be solving cubes, playing Shogi, or doing any kind of activity that required solving skills, and still managing to do it while still focusing on training. The fact that she still performed well, even when she appeared to be absent minded would always be a mystery to Teio.

“McQueen!” She heard Special Week call her other teammate. “Want me to help you with stretching?”

“Thank you, but I'm okay on my own.” She politely declined as she gave her friend a smile.

As she watched the exchange, Teio went to next to McQueen, who noticed her friend approaching.

“Teio…” she began, smiling softly. “I'm fine, you don't need to worry.”

“I know.” Teio shot her a smile. “I just wanted to stretch next to you.” She said as she sat down and began stretching her arms towards the tip of her toes.

“Well, if that's the case I won't stop you. I don't mind.” Her friend told her, her smile growing wider just so slightly.

“Hehe…” Teio snickered as she continued stretching.

Team Spica finished their stretches got ready to warm up with a few laps around the track per their trainer's instructions. As Teio got ready to run, she looked at McQueen, guilt consuming her as her friend tried to hide a look of loneliness. She noticed her friend looking at her and shot her a nervous smile, but Teio already knew she was just keeping appearances. It didn't matter how much she tried not to worry, it kept sneaking its way into her mind. It didn't make sense for her. When her teammate overseas, Suzuka got injured she was worried, of course, but she had gotten over it pretty quickly. With McQueen, it felt different. Every time she gazed at the compressing sleeve on her left knee, she felt her body run cold, and it wasn't caused by the winter weather. She didn't know why McQueen's situation caused different feelings, but it bothered her. She and the remaining teammates were about to begin their run. As they were preparing to start running, Teio saw Special Week entering her field of view, which gave her an idea.

“Spe!” She called, getting her attention. “I need to ask you something. Can you run next to me?”

Her friend looked at her curiously as she agreed. They and the other members began jogging along the turf, the other 3 shouting “sweets” as they ran.

“What did you want to talk about, Teio?” Special Week inquired.

“Well… I'm worried about McQueen.” She started. “I know that's normal, you guys are worried about her as well… The thing is…” She paused, trying to collect her thoughts as they kept running, entering a corner. 

“You know when Suzuka got injured?” She began, her friend wincing a little at the thought. “We were all concerned, but as we saw she was alright and recovering, we quickly stopped worrying and just trusted her. But with McQueen…” She started looking at the floor, as if she had found it interesting. “I know she'll be alright, but I can't stop worrying…. But then I remembered you were all over Suzuka when she was injured, so I was wondering if you felt the same thing.”

As she looked at her, she saw a look of realisation forming on Special Week's face.

“I see…” she said. “I think I felt that way too. It's normal to be worried about others when they're hurt, but when they're…” She paused, blushing a little. “Very dear to us, I think we get a bit more worried because it's more personal.” She was now facing Teio, giving her a smile. “So, don't worry, Teio. You're close to McQueen, so it's normal that you're getting a bit protective over her.”

Teio looked ahead, Special Week's words floating in her mind. “Yeah… That makes sense…” She said, as she felt a bit lighter. “Yeah, I get it now! I spend more time with her than anyone else, so I'm getting a bit more worried...But I trust she'll be alright in no time. Thank you, Spe!”

“You're welcome!” Her friend told her.

The two caught up to the rest of the group, matching their pace once they did so. As they were completing a lap, Teio saw their trainer next to McQueen, explaining an exercise tailored for her recovery. McQueen, noticed her friends approaching, a look of longing showing on her face. As she and Teio locked their gazes, the latter gave her a wave accompanied by a beaming smile, which did its job of making McQueen smile back. As she refocused on her running, Teio felt herself feel a little lighter. 

‘She'll be alright.’

Chapter Text

Following Special Week's suggestion, Team Spica decided to have dinner together at a restaurant in the shopping district after a long day of training and classes. As the group walked through the streets, the day's events replayed in McQueen's mind, her ears dropping slightly. She wouldn't say the day was bad, but she didn't feel fulfilled. Being injured, she knew she didn't have much of a choice, being limited to only light exercises to get her strength back and see how her leg responded. While her teammates have been very supportive, she couldn't help but feel that she was dragging them down. Of course she appreciated their care and help, but seeing the worried glances and extra precautions they took to ensure her comfort made her feel like a dead weight.

She kept her thoughts to herself as the group carried on. Vodka and Scarlet found themselves in the middle of another argument, but McQueen simply tuned it out. She knew these banters were just the usual communication between her two friends, and that unless one of them actually escalated it, she didn't have to worry about it. Her mind drifted to her training. Their trainer had her do some exercises, mostly working on her legs, making sure to pay attention to any signs her leg was hurting. Fortunately, she had no issues, but she wanted more. She wanted to set her feet on the turf and dash until her stamina ran out. She wanted desperately to run her heart out, but mostly, she wanted to run with her Teio.

During her friend's recovery, she did her best to make sure she was worthy. She kept running and winning, not only for herself, but also hoping that she'd be a goal that Teio could look up too. Even as Teio was close to give up, she reinforced her will to keep running and improving herself, which helped Teio try one more time. Things were finally looking good for both, but then it all came crashing down as her doctor diagnosed her with suspensory ligament desmitis, which threatened to end her career, or even just living a normal life if pushed too hard. Stubbornly, she went to train to prove herself she could still do it, only to be found by Teio at her lowest point. Though she tried, she lost her composure, breaking down in tears. She had been Teio's rock all that time, but in that moment, she found herself lost, crying in front of the very person she tried to support and lift up. But Teio, using her own words against her, gave her a glimmer of hope, and later, as if defying fate itself, she ran in the Arima Kinen and managed to win. Remembering her friend's feat, she steeled herself. ‘I'll make my own miracle, Teio…’ She said in her mind. ‘Then we'll run together just like we promised.’

“McQueen?” She heard a voice call, her ears perking up.

McQueen looked to her side, finding Teio looking at her.

“You have a really serious look. Is everything alright?” Her friend asked her, as the other members kept chatting among themselves.

She sighed softly, shooting a smile at her.

“Don't worry, Teio. I'm just thinking about some things.”

“Bad things?” Teio asked, not satisfied with her answer.

McQueen wanted to reassure her, but for some reason, she felt herself holding back. ‘Is that fair to her? I can trust her, so I can tell her, right?’

“You know you can tell me if anything’s bothering you, right?” Teio continued. “If there's anything bad making you feel sad, just tell me.”

McQueen's resolve finally faltered and face was filled with guilt.

“I don't want to burden you, Teio… Or anyone else, for that matter.”

“But isn't that what we’re here for?” Her friend questioned with a sad look in her face and her ears pointing down. “You're not bothering us at all, we help you because we want to.”

“I…" McQueen said, taken aback, taking a moment reflect on her words. "Sorry, Teio… You're right…” She finally admitted. “Maybe I'm just stressed because of all of this.”

“Of course you are!” Teio said. “No one blames you for feeling bad. We'll be here to help you until you can run again. Just don't push yourself too hard because you don't want us to worry about you.”

McQueen kept looking at Teio as she let herself smile a bit, this time genuinely. She still felt worried, but Teio made her feel just slightly lighter.

“Thank you, Teio… You know…”

“Alright, we're here!” She heard Gold Ship announce from the front.

Her attempt was cut short when they reached the restaurant. She could see Special Week already looking enthusiastically through the windows, her tail swishing violently as she checked all of the promotional banners, pointing at each one as she began to drool. She was a bit disappointed that she couldn't open up to Teio about her worries in more detail, but she figured they'd have many opportunities.

The group entered the restaurant and went to the counter to place their orders. Most of the group ordered something simple. McQueen was a bit unsure in what she wanted at first, but seeing Teio order a burger with fries, made her think ‘Why not?’ and ordered the same. They watched in amusement at the woman at the register's astonishment, later turned horror as Special Week placed an order for herself that could easily feed the whole group. They found a table big enough for all of them. McQueen sat in a corner in front of Special Week who was carrying two trays full of food. Teio sat right next to her and she could swear she was sitting just a bit too close to her, but she didn't mind. If anything, it distracted her from the spiral her mind kept trying to dive into.

“So, Teio…” Vodka called out, opening the lid of a sauce dip. “What race do you plan on running now?”

“I don't know…” Teio said after eating on a fry. “Trainer said that a G2 would be a good idea so I could slowly get back to form, since it's not too serious. Maybe the Kyoto Kinen, or the Kinko Sho?”

“So, no G1 races yet?” Scarlet asked as she readied a spoon to eat the soup she ordered.

“I guess not… But I don’t want to wait too long to try them. I was thinking maybe the Osaka Hai or the Takarazuka Kinen.” Teio explained, taking a sip of her cola.

“Oh!” Special Week interjected. “Grass said she is running in the Takarazuka Kinen, too!”

“She won't be easy to beat…” McQueen warned, getting the group's attention as she carefully picked some fries. “And from what I've heard her sister back in the States is sick, so she's pushing herself harder.” She said, turning to Teio. “You'll have to work hard if you wish to win against her, Teio.”

McQueen proceeded to eat her fries as she observed Teio appear to be deep in thought, only to suddenly go back to her cheerful self shortly after.

“Well, I have until June to get ready, so I don't have to worry about it yet.” She proclaimed as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. “I'll train a lot and show them just what I’m capable of. Nishishi…”

“But you still have to be voted by fans to get in.” Scarlet added, taking a spoonful of soup. “You can’t slack off.

“You'd think after what she did in the Arima Kinen she'd be one of the favourites, don't you think?” Vodka asked.

“More like the favourite.” Gold Ship added, solving her Rubik's cube in one hand, while holding a burger on her other hand.

“Well…” her the red-head started, blushing lightly. “I was just saying it, of course Teio can get voted in easily.”

‘Of course she can.’ McQueen thought, finding herself smiling fondly.

“Everyone…” Teio murmured.

“By the way, McQueen…” Special Week called, almost halfway through her food. “How is your leg feeling after training?”

“How can I put it…” McQueen pondered, remembering the day's events. “It felt different… I could feel my leg straining a bit. I feel fine while walking, but when I work my leg a bit more, it starts to be a little more difficult. I can't trust this leg too much, for now.” She said, unconsciously moving her left leg, looking for any discomfort.

“That must be tough…” Vodka, who had her elbow in the table, supporting her head, said. “I hate those injuries that only hurt when it's inconvenient.”

“It is indeed frustrating…” McQueen agreed.

“You guys don’t need to worry about it!” She heard Teio suddenly call out next to her. “It doesn’t matter what it is, McQueen will get through it stronger than ever!” She said proudly.

McQueen’s heart soared. She had to admit it felt pleasant to see the shorter girl believing in her so much. If anything, it made her feel a bit proud to be her friend. She let herself smile, which Teio seemed to notice, grinning wildly.

“Yeah, McQueen is a real toughie.” The tallest of the group told them, taking a bite of her burger. “She isn't going to be held back by a little injury. It's the injury that should be worried about McQueen defeating it!”

Gold Ship's silly comment proved too much, making McQueen start laughing lightly. The other girl might make it her personal mission to annoy her, but McQueen had to admit her attitude could lift up her spirits when needed.

As the stress about her injury faded slightly, she and the group engaged in conversation, mostly about their classes, or gossip they've heard. McQueen found herself looking at the cashier that took their orders earlier. The woman was now showing varying degrees of shock as a light gray-haired Uma Musume, wearing a yellow hair-piece, who was hanging out with her friends, made an order that could easily rival Special Week's. ‘Poor woman…’ She thought. ‘Two outrageous orders in one day. I hope the kitchen has enough ingredients for all of that.’

The group finished eating, Special Week looking visibly satisfied. They started cleaning after themselves, McQueen being one of the last since she was in a corner. She approached the trash bin to empty the contents of her tray, only to accidentally trip over a slightly cracked tile. The trip wasn't enough to throw her off balance, but it was easily noticeable. Before she could even process her own mishap, she felt someone quickly dashing to grab her. As she looked to her side, she saw Teio looking worried.

“Are you okay?” She asked.

“Teio, I only tripped. My leg isn't hurting.”

“Are you sure? If you need anything I…”

“Teio!” She interrupted, a bit more sternly. 

Surprised at her words, Teio recoiled slightly, fearing she might've went too far as her ears and tail dropped slightly. McQueen winced at the sight.

“I'm fine…” she said, much more softly this time. “I know you're only looking after me, but you don’t need to overthink every little thing. It was just a small trip. See?” She said, smiling gently while thumping the foot of her injured leg, making sure to bend her knee to show that she was okay.

Teio let out a shuddering breath, looking dejected. “I'm sorry…” She said. “I just…”

“Don't worry, Teio…” McQueen reassured her. “I get it. If I really wanted you to leave me alone, I would tell you.”

Teio looked at her, unsure of what to say, before launching herself at McQueen. She was surprised by the gesture, but returned it nonetheless. She felt Teio shake slightly in her embrace, so she pat her back slowly.

“D-don't push yourself too much… Okay?” Teio plead, her voice breaking slightly. “If you feel anything bad, please don’t keep it to yourself.”

McQueen tightened her grip on Teio. “I won't.”

“Hey, guys, you can hug all you want when we reach the dorms. We'll miss curfew.” Gold Ship’s voice rang out.

“Can't you see that Teio is worried about her?” Scarlet pointed out. “It's not even that late!”

“Hmm? What’s so…” the other began, but cut herself as Special Week tapped her on the shoulder and spoke to her in a hushed tone. “Oh… I get it now…”

The group finally left the restaurant. As they went out the door, McQueen saw Gold Ship calling Teio for a brief moment. She didn't hear what their conversation was since she didn't want to eavesdrop, but as they finished, she saw the two teammates smiling at each other and Gold Ship patting Teio's shoulder. The group started making its way back to the dorms, McQueen and Teio walking together at the back.

“What did Gold Ship want to tell you?” She asked Teio.

“Oh… She just wanted to say ‘sorry’ for earlier. Spe explained to her what we talked about during training.”

“What did you two talk about?” She asked.

Teio blushed lightly and then looked ahead.

“Oh…” she said, chuckling nervously while scratching her head. “Nothing…”

McQueen felt herself grow a bit mischievous.

“Nothing, huh?” She teased. “Then why has ‘nothing’ got you so worked up?”

“Uh…” Teio stammered and fidgeted, her blush growing heavier. “You see…”

“Goodness, Teio…” McQueen chuckled. “You’re acting like someone about to confess their love.”

“Y-you wished!” Teio retorted.

McQueen felt her eyebrows raise, though she didn’t know why. At the same time, she could swear she could hear someone snort, that someone sounding suspiciously similar to Gold Ship.

“I was just worried about you… You know when Spe was worried more than anyone about Suzuka?” Teio began sheepishly. “I think I'm feeling the same way because… You know, we're kind of close.”

“I understand.” McQueen replied. “But I don't think I remember Spe blushing around Suzuka.” She teased.

“Alright, I get it!” Teio fumbled, adorably, McQueen thought as she stifled a giggle with her fist.

“But I'm glad to have someone like you, I really do.” She admitted. “I know I may be… ‘stubborn’, should I say, but I trust you. To tell you the truth, I've been a bit frustrated at my inadequacy recently, but today I managed to not think about it so much because of you.”

“See? It's not that hard?” It was now Teio's turn to tease. “You can act tough around everyone, but not with me.” She said, deepening her voice slightly, closing one of her eyes “I have my eye on you, Mejiro McQueen!” She said dramatically, pointing from her open eye to McQueen.

McQueen stared dumbfounded at Teio before erupting into a fit of giggles. Seeing her friend's reaction Teio couldn’t help but laugh too.

“Thank you, Teio.”

“Nishishi! Don't mention it.”

The group continued making their way into the dorms, McQueen and Teio walking next to each other in silence as the rest of the group chatted. As they reached the Ritto dormitory, they bid each other farewell and split up. McQueen wished to spend a bit more time speaking to Teio, but the latter had already told her room-mate, Mayano Top Gun, she'd play a game with her, so she didn't have an opportunity to engage in more conversation. As she entered her dorm, she found her own room-mate, Ikuno Dictus already present, reading a book. McQueen greeted her warmly, as the other briefly wished her a quick recovery. She changed out of her uniform into more comfortable clothes and began preparing for bed. She didn't mind Ikuno's presence at all, but after the long day and in the mental state she was in, she just wanted to rest. She sat on her bed, feeling the tiredness hit her body. Ikuno, noticing her room-mate's fatigue, offered to turn off the main light and using her bedside lamp to read instead, so McQueen could rest, which she appreciated. As she covered herself with the sheets, she started at the blank ceiling. Her mind started drifting again to her leg and to her injury. Memories about “that day” flooded her mind as she turned to her side. She kept thinking about it until Teio’s face surged within her memory. She suddenly felt herself grow calmer. She reminisced about the current day, all the little worried glances, all the protective touches, all the heart-melting smiles. She allowed her mind to wander, thinking about Teio's care, her eyes closing and her mouth curving into a smile. That night she'd sleep easier.

————————————————————————

As the week progressed, McQueen started to get into a flow while following her new training regimen. Not being able to run still stung a little, but slowly she started to believe that the time would come eventually and that her patience would be rewarded. Despite some slight accommodations, her friends treated her the same, only really worrying if she had been standing for too long or working her legs a bit too much. She even noted on how Gold Ship toned down her pranks slightly. She continued throwing dice and erasers at her, but Gold Ship could never defeat McQueen's quick reflexes to send them back, always comicallyhitting her in eye, which would put the tall girl rolling on the ground.

The only noticeable exception was Teio. Though she seemed to be overthinking less about McQueen's injury, her care and attentiveness were second to none. McQueen worried that it would affect her running, but their trainer had specifically told she was in great shape, even as Teio took every opportunity to help her. She wondered how Teio managed to have so much time to spend with her, but the girl seemed to be genuinely enjoying being with her, so she didn't press the matter further. What surprised her the most was that she was even reducing her time visiting the council president, Symboli Rudolf just to be with her more often, which was unusual given how much the girl looked up to her.

Eventually, Friday had arrived and Team Spica's training went on as usual, with the exception of Teio. Since they were planning on a gradual return, despite her stellar performance in the Arima Kinen, their trainer wanted Teio to run in the upcoming Kyoto Kinen in a few weeks to see how she performed and to plan her return to G1 races.

She found herself standing close to the trainer, having already been dismissed for the day, after her rehabilitation work, while her other teammates were doing endurance exercises nearby. Since she didn’t have anything she could do, she decided to watch Teio run the course while the trainer timed her times. Her eyes followed the small girl dashing around the track as she cleared a corner. Thought Teio might act energetically and sometimes silly, when she was on the turf, she became, in McQueen's opinion, a force to be reckoned with. 

Teio proceeded through the final corner and her speed increased as she began accelerating with all her might. Her legs moved fast, her arms matching their rhythm. McQueen's tail started swinging from side to side as she felt vibrations travelling through her legs while her teammate approached. The sound of her steps became more and more audible as they propelled her forward at great speed, specks of dirt being flung backwards with the sheer strength of her stride. An electronic click was heard, marking the end of her run. Teio began slowing down gradually as her trainer checked the time, comparing it with previous results and humming to himself. McQueen kept looking at Teio as she made her return to see her progress. ‘She's so fast!’ She thought, feeling amazed. She knew this fact very well, but somehow Teio never ceased to amaze her, and now she seemed to be doing it more than ever.

“How's my time?” The girl asked the trainer expectantly, her breathing uneven after the intense run.

“It doesn't even feel like you were injured at all.” He announced proudly. “Keep this up and you might just break your record. Well done, Teio, go get some rest. Everyone!” He called, rasing his voice so the others could hear him. Grab your things and get ready to leave, you’re dismissed for the day!”

McQueen reached for her bottle, spotting Teio’s nearby, reaching for it as well. She went to her friend, handing it to her, who took it with a smile.

“Thanks…” she said, taking a generous gulp of water followed by a sharp exhale. “Did you see me run?”

“I did.” McQueen admitted proudly. “If you keep it up, I don't think anyone has any chance of beating you.”

“Hmm, that's disappointing.”

“What do you mean?” McQueen asked confused.

“How am I supposed to look forward to a race if you don't have a chance of beating me?” Teio asked with a grin.

“Y-you know what I meant!” McQueen interjected, slightly flustered, making Teio giggle.

“I know, just messing with you.” Teio said. “But seriously, thanks.”

“You're welcome, Teio.”

“Hey, Teio!” She heard Vodka call out as she and the others returned. “Nice running!”

“It felt like I was watching the Arima Kinen again!” Gold Ship joined in. “She was like “phoosh” and turned that corner like it was a straight-away!” She exclaimed as she made exaggerated representations of Teio’s running, which made the group smile.

“Do you know who'll be racing in the Kyoto Kinen?” Special Week asked.

“Hmmm…” Teio began, looking to the side while thinking. “I know Mayano will be racing, but that's all I know.”

“As long as you do your best, you don’t need to worry.” Scarlet added. “You've got this, Teio!”

“Te-i-o! Te-i-o!” Cheered Gold Ship, the group following her lead, McQueen included.

“You guys…” Teio said lowly. Though she tried to not appear embarrassed, McQueen could easily see that her tail was shaking energetically, which brought a smile to her face.

The girls went to change, Teio doing her famous “Teio step” as she switched back into her uniform. Despite being one of the first to finish changing, she stayed behind as the others made their way out, leaving her alone with McQueen as she too finished changing.

“You're going home for the weekend, right?” Teio asked her, to which McQueen nodded. “Do you want me to walk with you to the gate?”

“Sure, why not?” She responded, her tail starting to swing slightly. “I could do with the extra five minutes of company.”

“Hehe… Let's go then!”

The two girls left the room as they started walking to the gates where McQueen's butler would take her back to the Mejiro state for the weekend.

“Is your leg starting to feel better?” Teio asked. “You seemed less tense today.”

“Yes!” McQueen responded. “The exercises that the trainer had me doing are starting to feel easier. If this keeps going, I believe I might actually be able to race again.”

“That’s great!” Teio cheered. “Even your confidence is returning. A happy McQueen is my favourite McQueen!”

“Really?” The purple-haired girl asked. “Are there any other McQueen I should know about?” She teased.

“You know what I mean, silly.”

The two girls giggled as they made it to the main walkway leading to the gates.

“Are you going to keep training over the weekend?” Teio asked.

“I'd like to, but my doctor said not to overdo it, so maybe I won't.” McQueen explained. “Maybe I'll spend time with Ryan and Dober if they're free.”

“Hmmm…”

McQueen looked at Teio waiting for her to speak, but she stayed silent. She saw her appearing to be deep in thought and she could swear she saw her shaking her head slightly.

“Well…” She started. “I hope it doesn't get too boring. But you have my number if you want to talk to me!”

“I'll try to remember that if I think I’m starting to feel too lonely while in my bedroom.” McQueen told her.

Then, for some reason she didn't understand, Teio's face went red and her ears and tail went straight as if she had been struck by lightning. McQueen stopped, looking in confusion at her friend until the gears in her head started turning and she too went red in the face.

“Teio! You know that's not what I meant!” She almost screamed, her voice increasing in pitch. She became self aware of her own voice and cleared her throat. “What I mean is… If I start feeling bored because I'm stuck in my bedroom, I'll remember to call you.”

“Oh… Yeah, of course…” Teio said sheepishly. “I don't know why my mind went ‘there’.”

“I should've chosen my words more carefully, too. I'm sorry.”

“It's okay, it's not every day I get to see you being all flustered.” The short girl teased.

“You're having fun with this…”

“But I'm curious…” Teio began as they resumed walking. “Have you ever liked someone, McQueen?”

The questioned intrigued McQueen. The concept of love wasn't anything new to her, but she never gave it much thought. She always gave so much attention to racing and her studies that she never even entertained the idea of falling in love. ‘Is there anyone I even have feelings for? Of course I love my family and I love training with my teammates… Do I even have someone that could be more than just a friend?’ As these thoughts circled in her mind, Teio kept her gaze on her, excepting an answer.

“I never really thought about it…” She finally replied. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I can't fall in love, but I just never showed much interest in it.”

“I see…” Teio, replied. “Mayano brings it up often, so I end up thinking about it sometimes.” She remained silent briefly, before turning to McQueen again. “You know… I actually wondered before if… Well, this is embarrassing…” She began as she fidget slightly, her tail starting to swing. “I've actually wondered if I liked Prez, but… it's different… I like her a lot and I want to be able to beat her, but… she's like an older sister to me, you know?”

McQueen couldn't help but smile fondly at Teio’s admission. Noticing this, Teio gave her a bashful smile in response.

“That's a very beautiful thing, Teio. I’m glad you shared it with me.” She told her.

“Thanks…” the girl said. “But you know…“

McQueen observed Teio as she struggled with whatever was going on in her mind. Teio kept walking as she stared straight ahead, before finally turning to McQueen while smiling.

“Actually, nevermind. I’m probably just imagining it.”

“If you say so.” McQueen replied. She wouldn't deny that she was curious about Teio's potential interests, but she wouldn't press her if she didn't feel comfortable with it.

“But if I do fall in love with someone, you'll be the first to know!” Teio announced proudly.

“Then, if that does happen, I'll help you in whatever way I can.” McQueen offered.

“Hehe… You're the best!” The other told her.

Thought it was only a simple comment, McQueen felt her heart soar upon hearing it. The girls finally reached the gates, finding the black limo as McQueen's butler waiting outside.

“Hello, Mr. Butler!” Teio greeted before turning to McQueen. “Well, I think this is where I leave you. Remember, call me, or send me a message if you feel too bored. See ya!”

Teio began turning to make her way to the dorms, while McQueen waved at her, her ears dropping slightly. The butler opened the door for McQueen to enter. As she began entering the car, a thought flashed her mind. She suddenly retreated, looking bact at her friend's direction. 

“Teio, wait!”

Teio, who hadn't gotten far, looked back upon hearing her name, and made her way back next to McQueen.

“Hmmm? What is it?” She asked, hands behind her back.

“Do you…” McQueen began. She stood in silence, her words failing her. She had called Teio before she even knew why she did it, so she didn't even know what to say. Despite feeling that she knew it subconsciously, she hesitated, and eventually decided against it. “Never mind… Sorry for calling you so suddenly.”

“Hehe… No biggie. Anyway, I'm going. Bye!”

Once again Teio began making her way back to the dorms. McQueen apologised for making the butler wait, who didn’t mind at all and got into the car, putting her seatbelt on.

“Is your leg feeling better, miss?” The butler asked as he got onto the driver's seat, putting his own seatbelt on.

“Yes… It feels stronger than when the week started.“ She told him, feeling slightly better. “Do you think the you can have the doctor examine my leg once we arrive?”

“Of course, miss.”

Without further conversation, the engine roared to life and they began to drive away. McQueen gazed outside the window, starting to feel the loneliness creeping in. As she watched the scenery move as the car drove down the road, her mind drifted back to what happened by the gates.

‘Why couldn't I invite her?’

Chapter Text

It was early morning on Saturday and Teio was training her endurance by running uphill. She had woken up early that day so she could get early practice, hoping to have the rest of the day free to just enjoy herself. The hill she was running at was one she was very accustomed to, since she ran it almost every day in preparation for the Spring Tenno Sho two years earlier. She had been training since early morning, and she could feel her legs and lungs starting to strain after a good while, but she felt she could still run just a while longer.

She reached halfway through her third climb, which would be her last for the day. As she kept running, memories from two years ago played in her mind. She knew very well that the Tenno Sho was McQueen's speciality, and that she'd have to do her very best to have a chance to defeat her, but she didn't want to back down from the challenge, not with McQueen. Despite all of her training, it still wasn't enough, as she just couldn't catch up to McQueen before the goal, but even worse than that, she didn't even manage to place right behind her, but placed fifth instead. In just a couple of minutes, not only did her undefeatable streak end, but she lost to the person she absolutely didn't want to, and for a long time, paired with her injuries, she felt that she was inadequate.

But now, that version of Teio was gone. She didn't care if she didn't manage to remain undefeated, nor if she didn't manage to defeat McQueen. To her, a loss was just a loss and nothing more. If she had lost to her once, she only had to win the next one. Feeling determined, she increased her speed slightly as she approached the top of the hill.

‘Next time, for sure, I'm going to win! I'm waiting for you, McQueen!’

As she finished her run, she let herself wind down and went back to the dorms. Before going directly to the dorms, she passed by the honey cart to get her favourite honey drink, one the woman running the cart had already memorised, handing it to her with a cheerful smile. She finally arrived at her dorm, finding Mayano Top Gun with legs crossed on her bed reading a romance Manga. Teio greeted her friend warmly and proceeded to go for a bath. Though she didn't feel too tired, the sensation of the warm water flowing over her felt, in her opinion, refreshing, as the whatever fatigue she had seemed to simply melt away.

She slipped into a grey long sleeved shirt, and blue shorts, finding that it was comfortable enough. She went back to the main room of the shared dorm and she allowed herself to drop onto her bed with a satisfied sigh.

“How did the run go?” Her room-mate asked.

“It felt nice.” She told her. “I was a bit worried that my performance would drop after the Arima Kinen. You know, like a kind of one time-thing?” She explained, as her friend nodded. “But now I feel like I'm back… No. I feel like I’m doing better than before! It's great!”

“I'm happy for you!” Mayano cheered. “By the way, you're running in the Kyoto Kinen, right?”

“Yup!” Teio said. “You're going to run in it too, right?”

“Mmhmm! So you better be ready for me Teio, because I'm going to fly past the finish line and won't let you catch up to me!” Her friend told her, her tail flicking wildly and her ears twitching.

“Then you better get ready, or you're going to be shot down in flames!” Teio replied as her own fighting spirit flared up.

The two friends giggled about each other's thoughts about their upcoming dogfight. They chatted for a short while before going back to their own personal worlds, each setting themselves on their own beds. Teio picked up her phone. As she did so, she quickly checked her messages, her tail wagging slightly in anticipation. She looked for a specific contact and hear ears dropped seeing upon seeing now nee messages. 'She hasn't called me yet… Well, maybe it's too early, so she isn't too bored yet. Maybe her doctor allowed her to train more.’

She brushed the thought of McQueen's lack of contact aside. Almost automatically she looked for Symboli Rudolf's contact, which she saved as “Prez” and sent her a message asking if she was free. The student council president didn't take long to reply, much to Teio's delight. She engaged in a brief back and forth, hoping they could meet and go for lunch before returning to the dorms. They both arranged to meet at the arcade later, as Rudolf had yet to get ready.

“Mayano, I'm going out for a bit!” She said, launching herself from her bed, grabbing a blue jacket and putting her shoes on.

“Okay, have fun!”

She left the Ritto dorms, finding Vodka and Scarlet in their training gear, greeting them as she passed, and made her way to the arcade, her tail swinging happily along the way. It had been a while since she last hung out with Rudolf and the fact that she was free on a Saturday was a big blessing. The student council president was often occupied with school matters and her own training most of the days, so for her to be able to hang out with Teio. Teio arrived first, so she found a corner and played a game on her phone while waiting for the older girl. She didn't have to wait long, as a few minutes later, she saw Rudolf approaching, quickly recognising her white strands of hair on her forehead.

“Hey, Prez!” She called, getting her attention.

“Hello, Teio!” The council president greeted warmly. “How are you doing?”

“Hehe… I'm doing great!” The younger girl told her. “I'm actually surprised you're free today.”

“Air Groove helped me yesterday so I could have more free time.” Rudolf told her. “I tried to convince her not to, but she said I was overworking myself. In my opinion, I think she's the one overworking herself by trying to reduce my work load.”

“You two act like a married couple, at this point.” Teio deadpanned.

“Then, would that make you the daughter?” Rudolf asked.

“Pweh…! Is this one of your jokes?” 

Rudolf giggled as Teio crossed her arms, though after a few seconds, she allowed herself to laugh lightly.

“And what about your leg? Is it still holding strong after the Arima Kinen?” Rudolf asked.

“Oh, yeah, it feels great!” The other said, patting the ground with her food to show it was healthy. “The trainer is preparing me for the Kyoto Kinen. I want to run the Takarazuka Kinen in June.” The short girl told her.

“That's a good choice. I hope you get to run just as well as you did in the Arima Kinen.” The council president said. "It won't be an easy race."

“Nishishi… You'll just have to wait and see.” Teio teased.

“I'm looking forward to it, then.”

“Well, let's go!” Teio urged. “There are a few games I want to play with you!”

“Lead the way!”

The two girls entered the arcade. The place was bustling with activity, where many people, Uma Musume and normal people, could be found trying the different assortment of games. Teio, a regular, guided the council president through the various games located there, showing her favourites and teaching her tricks to play them better. While Rudolf had been to the arcade before, her talent couldn't hold a candle to Teio's. In cooperative games, Teio would do most of the contribution, sometimes carrying Rudolf through it. In games where they faced each other, Teio would win most of the time. While Rudolf wasn't succeeding, Teio could see she was having fun regardless. They kept at it for a while, sometimes pausing to chat about school and training. Before they realised, lunch time arrived quickly and the two decided to get some hot-dogs and drinks, finding a bench to sit while eating.

“Are you having fun, Prez?” Teio asked the other.

“Yes, a lot.” Rudolf replied. “I have to say, Teio, it's a bit difficult to match your level in this games. You must practice a lot.”

“Nishishi… I come here all the time, so I’m used to it. If we could go this more often, I'd teach you.”

“I don't think I'd be able to match you.” The older girl told her, smiling lightly.

“Hmmm, maybe not.” Teio teased.

Teio took a bite out of her hot-dog as she felt her phone vibrate.

“Oh… I think someone messaged me!" Teio noted. "Do you mind if I just check it real quick?” She told, to which Rudolf nodded.

She picked up the phone from her pocket, checking her notifications. Her ears and tail quickly perked up upon seeing that McQueen had messaged her.

“Were you waiting for someone to message you?” Rudolf asked, watching as Teio's excitement became obvious.

“Oh…” Teio said, blushing lightly. “I told McQueen to message me if she felt lonely. Her doctor probably told her not to train this weekend.”

“I see…” Rudolf said, smiling slightly. “If you want to call her, I can give you a minute.”

Teio looked at her phone, then back at Rudolf.

“Okay, give me a bit.”

Teio got up and went to a corner nearby where Rudolf could still see her, as she promptly called her friend. The phone rang briefly before she heard the call being answered.

“Hello, Teio?” She heard from the other side.

“Hey, McQueen!” Teio answered. “Are you doing okay?”

“Yes. My doctor told me to rest, so I tried to read a book, but got bored quickly.” She told her. “What about you?”

“Oh…” Teio said, feeling guilty that she was having fun, her ears dropping slihgtly. “I was hanging out at the arcade with Prez.”

“I see…” She heard from the other side of the call. She could swear McQueen's voice sounded slightly disapointed. “Then, don't let me keep you.”

“Wait, McQueen!” She quickly responded. “I'll be back to the dorm soon, so I can call you when I'm there. Do you think you can wait about an hour? Actually, 40 minutes?”

“I think I can handle 40 minutes of loneliness.” McQueen told her with a chuckle.

“Alright, I'll call you later, then. Bye!”

As McQueen said her own goodbyes, Teio hung up and went to sit besides Rudolf who was watching her atently.

“Someone had fun.” She told Teio.

“Hmmm?” The shorter girl asked, taking a bite of her still unfinished hotdog. “It was just a phone call.” She said, taking a sip from her drink.

“But your tail was swinging the whole time you were on the phone.” The council president pointed out.

Teio chocked lightly on her drink.

“Well, I was just happy to talk to her. I don't want her to feel lonely because she can't train, you know?” She explained.

“She's lucky to be your friend.” Rudolf said with a smile.

“Hahaha… Thanks…”

Rudolf finished her meal first, discarding the trash in a nearby bin.

“Teio, can you excuse me for a bit? I'll try to be quick.” She asked her.

“Yeah, sure!” Teio said. “I'm not done eating anyway.”

With a nod, Rudolf excused herself, leaving Teio sitting alone on the bench. Teio sat there finishing her meal. She observed the people in the arcade, finding herself smiling at two Uma Musume sisters playing a game together, while their mother stood nearby. She put the final piece of hot-dog in her mouth and finished her drink, putting the trash into a bin before returning to the bench. Her mind began to wander onto the upcoming race. She wasn't nervous, she had no reason to, in fact, she was excited about it, despite it being a G2. She knew that just because she did well in the Arima Kinen, it didn't mean she'd have such miraculous performance every time, so she really had to keep giving it her all. 'I just have to trust myself. I'll be fine!' After a while, she finally spotted Rudolf, this time carrying something she didn't have before.

“I'm back!” She said as she sat on the bench again. “I got you this!”

Rudolf handed Teio what she was carrying, a plushie of Teio.

“Oh, thanks, Prez!” Teio beamed. “But, you already got me on before, you know?”

“I know.” The council president replied, further confusing Teio. “But you could always give it to a friend. I think you have someone in mind, already.”

‘Oh… Oh!’

“I could give it to McQueen!” She said as her tail started flicking wildly, hitting Rudolf in the process. “That way she won't be as lonely!”

“I think she'll appreciate it.”

“Hehehe… Thank you, Prez!” Teio said.

“You're welcome, Teio.”

The two left the arcade. Before making their way back to the dorms, Teio looked for a courier service to see if she could have the plushie delievered to McQueen that day. Fortunately, the one they visited had a Saturday delivery service, and they assured the plushie would still be delivered that same day. They finally made their way back to the dorms, splitting as they each went to their own rooms, but not before Teio asked Rudolf not to overwork herself. She went to her shared room, seeing that Mayano wasn't there at the moment.

‘Maybe she went out for lunch.’

She sat down comfortably on her bed and took her phone out of her pocket. She quickly searched McQueen's contact and clicked on the call button, placing her phone against her ear, tapping her fingers against the mattress while she waited. She waited a few seconds, as she stared shaking her leg. Finally, the ringing stopped, as the call was answered.

“Hello again, Teio!” Her friend greeted. “Are you back to your dorm, already?”

“Yup! You better be ready, because I'm going to make sure you'll have so much fun while talking to me that you won't feel lonely for a whole week!” Teio promised proudly, unconsciously clenching her free fist in determination.

She heard McQueen giggle through the phone, which made her heart swell.

“I wasn't ‘that’ lonely, mind you, but I do enjoy your company.” McQueen told her.

“Nishishi… My rival said she likes my company.” Teio teased.

“I'll hang up on you, Teio." The other teased back.

“Oh? Are you getting shy, ‘Queenie’?”

“‘Queenie’?” She heard the other ask in shock.

“Don't like it?” She asked.

“I… That's besides the point.” McQueen retorted.

“So, you do like it.” Teio teased.

“Anyway…!” McQueen blurted, making Teio giggle. “I'm glad you called. I wasn't feeling too lonely, but being stuck on my bed limits my options of entertainment. My doctor wants me to have appropriate rest to ensure the week's training doesn't accidentally strain my leg.” She explained.

“Yeah, that must suck…” Teio agreed, her ears dropping. “By the way, how does it feel?”

“It still feels okay.” McQueen told her. “It does feel a bit stronger. The doctor told me if nothing happens next week, I can start seeing how it reacts to light jogs in the week right after.”

“Oh, that's great!” Teio beamed, her ears perking up. “Maybe I can join you! It's the same week of Kyoto Kinen, too!”

“Speaking of which…” McQueen began. “What will you do after you run the Kyoto Kinen?”

“I spoke with trainer about it the other day, actually.” The shorter girl told her. “The trainer agreed that if I win this race, then we'll try the Osaka Hai before the Takarazuka Kinen.”

“That sounds like a good plan. I hope you don't slack off.” The other teased.

“You'd like that, wouldn't you?” Teio retorted. “I need to be in full form for when you finally return.”

“Still thinking about me, are you?” McQueen asked with a challenging tone. “Then I hope…”

She heard McQueen cut herself briefly, and she tried to listen any sounds coming from the phone call.

“I'm sorry, Teio, give me one minute.” The other asked. “Come in!” She heard, further away.

Teio waited patiently for McQueen to return to the phone call. Fortunately, the interruption was brief.

“Teio…” She heard, closer this time. “Did you send me a package?”

‘Oh! There is!’

“Maybe… Why don't you open it?” She teased.

“If you say so…”

Plastic could be heard from the phone call, as she held her breath in anticipation. ‘I hope she likes it.’ The wait felt agonisingly slow, as she waited for McQueen to finish opening the package. As the sound of the plastic subsided, she heard a soft gasp.

“Oh, Teio…”

“Hehe… Now you won't be alone for sure.” Teio beamed.

“It's a bit cheeky for you to gift me a plushie of yourself, but I still like it.” The other told her. Teio could swear McQueen's voice sounded fond, which made her heart skip a beat.

“It was Prez that got it to me, actually. She suggested I give it to someone.” Teio told her. “I guess she knew I'd give it to you.”

“Most likely.” McQueen answered with a giggle. “Thank you, Teio!” She said, fondness still evident in her voice

“You're welcome, McQueen.”

————————————————————————

It was late morning and McQueen was awake in her room. She had her legs swung outwards, her left leg stretched as her doctor inspected it. He was kneeled close to her, as he tested her reactions to any discomfort, analysing any previous reports he had made. As he finished, he carefully let go of her leg and stood up.

“I can't find anything of worry, right now. It seems to be doing better than expected. I still recommend sticking with the same exercises for this next week.”

“Can I not start increasing the intensity, now, doctor?” The girl asked, ears low. “I can feel it starting to go back to normal.”

“I understand your enthusiasm, miss, but I believe it's still risky.” The doctor recommended. “But if this week proves to be uneventful, then we can slowly start to incorporate exercises closer to running.”

McQueen wanted to argue, but she felt that she'd just be stubborn. What would her opinion matter against a qualified doctor? She let out a deep sigh, accepting his advice.

“I do have to say…” He started. “Your current rate of recovery is surpassing expectations. I'm inclined to believe that a full recovery might actually become possible.”

Her ears perked up, as she quickly looked up.

“Really?” She asked, failing to hide her excitement.

“I do not believe it myself, yet your leg is showing great signs of recovery.” He explained. “Professionally, I shouldn't say this, but I believe your friend's luck might just have helped you.”

Her ears twitched at the mention of her friend.

“You mean, Teio?”

“Yes, the very girl that won the Arima Kinen.” He confirmed. “As a doctor, I can not comprehend how she had such a performance after a year without running, after suffering three fractures, nonetheless... Personally, I want to believe that it's nothing short of a miracle, one that I wish is aiding you too, miss”.

“A miracle…”

The word reminded her of that day under the rain. It had been the same word that Teio used, and now, she felt that she was witnessing one right in front of her eyes. Not only was Teio back where she was, if not higher, but now McQueen truly believed she could recover.

“I see…” She said, managing a smile. “I'll stick with the same exercises with my trainer, then we'll see it my leg allows me to do more.”

“Very well, miss.” The doctor agreed. “If you excuse me.”

The doctor retrieved his things and excused himself, leaving McQueen alone again. She lowered herself back on her bed as she looked at the ceiling, still smiling softly. ‘One week… I think I can endure one more week before doing something more.’ She looked to her side. Where, in previous days, was just an empty space, was now a plushie of Teio. McQueen's lips immediately curved up into a smile, upon seeing the plushie. She extended her arm to reach it, bringing it closer to her chest, hugging it tightly. She held the small item as if it was a lifeline. It didn't feel the same as hugging the real thing, she noted, but she enjoyed it all the same. Suddenly, she felt her cheeks burn at the image of Teio, and she dropped the plushie, leaving it next to her pillow as she stared at it, tail wagging.

‘Goodness, what am I doing? But… it's just a plushie, it's not like Teio would mind… She gave it to me after all…’

After considering the implications in her mind, she brought the plushie near her again, as she embraced it again, more gently this time.

‘Teio and I… We get along well… She's my rival, but she's still my friend. The other Spica members are my friends too, but…’ She increased her grip on the plushie as she reminisced about her friend and rival. ‘Teio feels different. I wonder… No, that can't be right… I'm probably just noticing her caring for me more, of course I'd feel grateful for that. I'm probably just overthinking things.’ She thought, as she weakened her grip on the plushie slightly, but still holding it against her. ‘I don't have time to think about this, right now. I should focus on recovering and go back to running.’

An idea suddenly crossed her mind. She remembered that her teammate, Suzuka had suffered a debilitating injury herself. She quickly looked at the clock, noticing that it was about an hour until noon. ‘Maybe she's still awake. Maybe I can ask her how she dealt with it.’ She told herself, calculating the current time in the States. She picked up her phone, opening the contacts app. She looked for a contact, one she had saved, but never called. She pressed the call button, hoping that she'd still manage to find Suzuka awake. She waited, as the phone rang, and to her delight, the call was picked up.

“Hello, McQueen?”

“Hello, Suzuka!” She greeted. “I hope I didn't wake you up.”

“Not at all.” Her teammate told her warmly.” I was just preparing for bed. I didn't expect you to call me.”

“Me neither... I know this is sudden, but I wanted to hear your thoughts on something.” McQueen began. “I believe you've heard of my injury.”

“Spe told me.” The other girl said in a sadder tone. “How is your leg doing?”

“My doctor says that it's going much better than expected.” She told her. “He says that he didn't expect it to be doing so well at this stage, already. If all goes well this week, I can start doing a bit more intense exercises on the next one.”

“That's wonderful news!” She heard Suzuka say. “The media kept saying that you would end your career.” She told her. “But you know how some people are, they just push articles without knowing what they are talking about, so I didn't want to believe it. I've been keeping updated on your situation by Spe. She's a more reliable source of information. And very caring too.” She said, giggling softly.

“I'm flattered that you believed in me.” McQueen told her friend. “Back to why I called you…” She said, changing the subject. “I was thinking about your own injury. I know they are two completely different cases, but I was wondering if you too felt hopeless when it happened. If you don't mind, of course.”

“No, I don't mind.” Suzuka told her calmly. “Well, it is like you said, they're two completely different injuries, so we can't compare them directly.” She began. “Mine was a fracture, but it was still believed that I would run again. In my case, the real challenge was getting over the fear of my own speed. I think that's what you wanted to ask me about.”

McQueen let her friends words spiral in her mind. It was like Suzuka had said. Her injury wasn't too severe, so it was up to Suzuka to challenge herself to run again without holding back. McQueen wasn't afraid of herself by no means, but the worry of her injury only getting worse bothered her stealthy when she was most vulnerable.

“Do you remember that day in Summer camp?” She asked. “I fell down my bike and Spe was about to help me, but our trainer urged her not to help me and also told me not to give up. I still remember how liberating it felt when I finally stopped holding back.” Suzuka told her, reminiscing happily about the feeling. “At least until we couldn't stop and went all the way until the water stopped us.” She heard her giggle, as she finished.

“I remember that…” McQueen told her, feeling slightly embarrassed as she reminisced the very same day.

“You're probably worried that something bad will happen if you keep pushing yourself.” Suzuka began. “Injuries haunt us like that... But sometimes, how much we really want something, is what matters when it comes to recovering from your lowest point. I think this might remind you of someone.”

McQueen didn't take too long to figure out who her friend was talking about. Even if the two weren't as close as they were in reality, she could never forget such an amazing display of sheer desire to win. Teio had fractured her leg three times, but she still won the Arima Kinen. She had every reason to be afraid that she would only injury herself further, but yet, she still found strength to do it. If Teio could do it, then McQueen could too.

“I think I understand, Suzuka.” She finally told her. “I believe I can run again. I have to. I can't be afraid, or I'll never recover. I will run again and show just how strong my resolve is.” She took a deep breath before concluding. “And I will keep my promise to ‘her’.”

“That's it!” Her friend cheered. “I'm glad I could help. If you need any help with your injury, feel free to call me.”

“Thank you, Suzuka.” McQueen said. “And sorry to call you when it's so late where you are.”

“It's okay.” Suzuka reassured. “Before you hang up, though…” She added. “Spe was talking to me about something the other day, and I was hoping I could ask you directly. Only if you want to.”

“What is it?” McQueen asked.

There was a short silence. She wondered what Special Week had said that made Suzuka want to ask McQueen personally. Finally, she heard Suzuka’s voice over the phone.

“McQueen… How do you feel about Teio?”

Chapter Text

Before McQueen even realised it, the weekend had ended uneventfully. She had spent most of the Sunday with Ryan and Dober, who had both agreed to keep McQueen company, so she wouldn't be alone. She had deeply appreciated the gesture, and she was hopeful she'd be able to join their usual weekend training soon. Due to her busy day and her morning routine the following morning, she barely had any time for her own thoughts, but as her butler drove her to Tracen Academy, her mind slowly began to wander to the phone call she had with Suzuka the day before. Though her experience with an injury was the whole reason of the phone call, what was stuck in her mind was a question created from Suzuka's own curiosity.

“McQueen… How do you feel about Teio?”

The question had taken McQueen completely off guard. She never really thought about her relationship with Teio. She was so used to Teio's presence as a teammate and her determination in their rivalry that she didn't even put a label onto it. She had told Suzuka so, and her friend simply said she'd be willing to help with that if she ever needed it. ‘What did she mean by that?’ She thought as she looked through the window, seeing some Uma Musume wearing their uniforms along the way. No matter how much she tried, McQueen couldn't understand why Suzuka was so curious about her opinion on Teio, nor why she said she'd be willing to help her. She wondered if Suzuka was just teasing her, but it sounded too unusual, especially coming from her. Her  train of thought was interrupted, however, as she heard her door being opened as the car had finally arrived.

“Are you alright, miss?” Her butler asked, noticing her absentmindedness.

“Yes. I was just remembering a conversation I had with a friend.” She told him, stepping onto the side walk. "You don't need to worry."

She bid her farewells to the butler and she stepped through the gates. She looked for her friends, quickly spotting Special Week and Gold Ship chatting while walking.

“Good, morning!” She greeted them, getting their attention.

“Oh! Hey, McQueen!” The taller girl greeted. “How was the weekend?”

“It was nice.” She told them. “I thought it would be annoying to be told to rest the whole time, but I still managed to have fun. Ryan and Dober also helped me with that.”

“That sounds so nice!” She heard Special Week say. “Having your family looking out for you is such a nice feeling!”

“Oh!” McQueen said, remembering an important detail. “I also spoke with Teio over the phone. She sent me a plushie of herself.”

After hearing her words, she saw her teammates’ eyes go wide, Gold Ship grinning deviously.

“Oho! Teio's feeling cheeky!” The tallest commented.

“But it's cute, isn't it?” The other asked. “That way you have her always looking out for you.”

“Oh, Spe, you're always so sweet with these things…” Gold Ship said, pretending to tear up.

“Please, don't actually cry…” Special Week said with a chuckle.

“By the way, where are the others?” McQueen asked, changing the subject.

“Hmmm…” Gold Ship began. “Scarlet probably arrived early, as usual… And even if she doesn't admit it, she cares too much about Vodka to not wake her up. Don't tell her I said that, though…”

“Good idea…” McQueen agreed. “And Teio?”

“No idea.” The tallest said dryly. “Maybe she's too excited that she's racing next week so she's already there.”

“I can see her doing that.” McQueen said fondly.

“Oh!” Special Week gasped. “I just remembered! Valentine's is next week, already!”

“So?” Gold Ship asked, not appearing interested.

“It's going to be all lovey-dovey all day! And… there's going to be a lot of sweets on sale… Hehehe…” The girl said, failing to hide her enthusiasm for the sugary snacks.

McQueen's ears perked up. She knew that eating sweets while doing lighter training could easily result in her gaining weight. ‘I have to resist the urge!’ She said to herself, steeling her resolve.

“Hmmm…” The tallest of the group began. “Maybe it's not that bad. And Teio is racing the day before… It's going to be a really special week.”

McQueen and Special Week stared at their teammate who didn't seem to realise the effect of her words. Noticing the sudden silence, she looked between both of them, who looked thoroughly disappointed.

“Oh… I didn't even notice it… Heh…”

The group continued walking, reaching the changing room where Scarlet and Vodka had just finished changing.

“‘Sup!” Gold Ship greeted.

“Oh, hey, guys!” Vodka greeted in response.

McQueen looked around the room, looking for someone that was missing from the group.

“Have you seen Teio?” She asked.

“She and the trainer went ahead.” Scarlet told her. “Extra training for the Kyoto Kinen.”

“Why does it kind of feel like we're slacking off, compared to her?” Gold Ship deadpanned.

The rest of the team looked at Gold Ship unimpressed, knowing full well the reason why she believed it.

“What?” She asked.

“You spend all the time playing Shogi or solving cubes instead of training.” Scarlet explained.

“Honestly, how can you still win races like that?” Vodka asked.

“Ohoho! I guess I have to tell you the mighty ways of the great Golshi!” The tall girl teased.

“Then, let's hope I can return to my usual training soon.” McQueen began. “Maybe I should ask our trainer to get me another pair of heavy horseshoes.” She said, grinning slightly.

“Eek!” The other said, freezing in place

The others laughed at the exchange between McQueen and Gold Ship, who was now trembling as she recalled the pain from helping with McQueen's intense training a couple of years prior. They finnished changing and heading out to the training grounds. They quickly found their trainer holding a stopwatch, and soon after, they spotted Teio running halfway through a lap.

“Good morning, trainer!” They all said.

“Oh, hello, girls!” He said turning to them. “Teio is just finishing her lap.”

He turned his attention back to Teio who was now on the backstretch of the track. McQueen's eyes immediately focused on her, following her movements as she raced along the track. ‘She's in great shape!’ She thought as her lips curved slightly upwards. As Teio approached the homestretch, the sound of her steps became louder and louder, as she put all of her strength onto every single one, her arms swinging quickly and her mouth open while she strained herself to her limit. McQueen could hear her teammates talking about her run, but she didn't catch any of her words, her senses paying full attention to the girl currently running on the track. Finally, she heard the mechanical click of the stopwatch as Teio crossed the goal, slowly beginning to slow down and turning back to check her time. Her breathing was ragged and sweat dripped from her forehead, but her face showed no signs of exhaustion. McQueen could swear that she saw her smile. Her trance was then quickly ended as she heard the others gasp.

“What happened?” She asked them.

“Didn't you listen?” Vodka asked. “Teio beat her best by a whole second!”

McQueen's eyes went wide. She knew very well the effort to achieve a new personal best. The fact that Teio managed to surpass it by a whole second caught her completely by surprise.

“Hey, guys!” The short girl's voice was heard, slightly out of breath. “Did my running surprise you?” She asked feeling confident.

“Teio, check it out!” Special Week said enthusiastically, pointing at the trainer's stopwatch, as the man looked at the short girl with both pride and disbelief.

“Hmmm, let me see…” Teio said, approaching her trainer. She looked at the stopwatch and her tail began swinging widely. “Oh! I beat my best! Let's go!”

Teio cheered, unable to stay still, giving high-fives to her teammates and proudly repeating “One second!”

McQueen simply observed her, her own tail swishing happily, her face showing a gentle, but proud smile. ‘She's amazing…’

“Did you see it, McQueen?” Teio suddenly asked her.

“Eh?” Was all she managed to say.

“You're really out of it, today.” Gold Ship interrupted. “Are you okay?”

“I…” she stammered, clearing her throat, her face red.” Don't worry about me, I was just distracted. Yes, Teio, I saw it. I'm really happy for you.”

“Hehe… Don't forget what you say today.” The other girl teased. “I'm not going to go easy on you, when you return, Queenie!”

“Teio!” McQueen blurted, a bit too loud, her face going into a deeper shade if red.

“Pfft! Queenie!” Gold Ship snort, struggling to contain her laughter.

“Seriously, show some restraint!” Scarlet retorted, looking at Gold Ship.

“I think it's cute!” Special Week said fondly. “They really get along well.”

“Heheh…” Teio chuckled. “Sorry to put you on the spot like that.”

“It's alright, Teio.” McQueen told her, her voice softening. “Just…” She felt herself grow warm as she tried to finish her sentence, her ears dropping in embarassment. “I don't mind if it's just between us.” She said, a bit lower this time.

Teio's eyes went wide, but she quickly gave McQueen a smile. “If you say so.”

“Alright, girls!” Their trainer suddenly called, getting the group's attention. “This week I want you guys to work a bit harder. We need to get ready for the Spring races, so I want you all to be in top shape. McQueen…” he said, turning towards her. “We'll be increasing the intensity a bit this week, okay? I want to see if we can have you doing light runs next week.” He explained, to which McQueen nodded. “Alright, Teio! You're in charge of stretches and warm ups.”

“Leave it to me!” Teio said, turning to the other members. “Alright, girls, no slacking off, let's go!” She ordered, the others following her lead as they stepped onto the turf and began jogging lightly.

The trainer focused his attention on McQueen, who was watching her friends run.

“We'll do the same as last week, but I'll have you do it a bit longer and add a few more things, okay?” He asked her as she listened attentively. “Also, I know the objective is to try to have you start to run a bit, but if you feel like you can't do it, just tell me and we'll adjust it. Don't go too far just because you want to run sooner.” He warned.

“Don't worry. I will run when it's time to do so, even if I have to wait a whole year.” She said, feeling herself grow determined. “My doctor said that I'm recovering quicker than expected, so I won't ruin it by getting overconfident.”

“You're different compared to last week.” He told her, smiling gently.” Did something good happen?”

“Let's just say that I'm blessed with great friends.” She told him, smiling to herself.

“I have to agree with that one. Shall we begin?”

Nodding, McQueen got ready for her recovery training. In the corner of her eye, she saw her friends running along the track, finishing a lap while Teio lead the group. Her eyes looked at the short girl, who running confidently with a smile on her face, making McQueen find herself smiling as well. She brought her attention back to starting her exercises, a happy thought flooding her mind.

‘But most importantly, I have her.’

————————————————————————

McQueen kept pushing herself as the week went on, growing more confident which each day. She felt that she could begin running slowly already, but she decided it was better to listen to her doctor. She knew it would happen eventually, so she didn't feel the need to try to rush her recovery.

It was now Thursday, exactly one week before Teio's upcoming race, and Team Spica could be found having lunch at the cafeteria, with Special Week having a visibly larger portion than her friends.

“So, Teio…” Gold Ship called, solving her Rubik's cube yet again. “Your race is almost here… How do you feel?”

“I feel great!” The other told her. “Trainer told me not to get too excited and tire myself, but it's getting a bit difficult.”

“Why don't you do something on Valentine's to cool off?” Vodka asked.

“Silly, Valentine's is the day after the race.” Scarlet told her.

“Oh, right…” The other said, scratching her head. “I mixed them up.”

“Why don't we all eat out again?” Special Week suggested, her ears perking up.

“Isn't that just your appetite talking?” Teio asked her.

“Ahaha…” Special Week chuckled. “Maybe…”

“Besides, we're going to be a bit busy this week.” Scarlet told the group. “We have to study for our tests.”

“Why did you have to remind me?” Vodka groaned.

“If you didn't spend time being a delinquent, you wouldn't have to worry about it.” The redhead retorted.

“Huh? Just because you're the model student doesn't mean you have to nitpick me about studying!” The other told her back.

“You're the one that isn't taking it seriously!” Scarlet fumed.

The others watched in amusement as the two girls got into one of their usual arguments.

“You two really get along well!” McQueen added.

“No, we don't!” They said at the same time.

“Yeah, yeah, sure you don't…” Teio teased.

The group kept eating, as the two room-mates finally managed to calm down, agreeing to study together for their test, but not without both claiming that they were doing it out of necessity, which made the others throw knowing glances at each other.

As she and her friends finished eating, McQueen went to her classes. She wished to have some time for her own thoughts, but the need to pay attention prevented her from doing so. Finally, after a few hours, she was free for the day, just as the sun could be seen starting to set. She gathered her things and began making her way to her dorm. A question kept popping up in her mind at the most inconvenient of times, and even though she wished to find an answer, she'd never have enough time to get close to finding one.

‘How do I truly feel about Teio?’

The phone call with Suzuka had her question something she took for granted. She thought that it would be a simple question that she'd forget the day after, but the more time passed, the more she felt intrigued by it. The question's presence was almost mocking, always appearing when she least expected it. The effect was so severe that for the whole week she found herself looking at her friend more often. The first sign was on Monday, when Teio had beaten her best time, but she quickly shrugged it off as just a momentary distraction. After a while, however it became too hard to notice, especially with Teio's constant help. It ranged from the most simple gestures to the more heartfelt ones. 

The same day she saw Teio run, a student had accidentally bumped McQueen at the cafeteria, making her chopsticks fall down from her tray. Teio was quick to get her a clean pair, handing them out to her with the sweetest smile that McQueen had ever seen. The next day, after training, she had gotten a small cake low on sugar from Teio, so that McQueen could enjoy something sweet without needing to worry about her diet. While the gestures weren't over the top, or numerous, McQueen not only found herself paying attention to the care Teio was giving her, but also how the other would react. She noticed Teio always glancing at her whenever she passed by her in the middle of a lap during warm ups, throwing her a smile every time she looked at her and how Teio always seemed to have McQueen's best interests in mind. Teio was careful enough that it wouldn't feel suffocating, but it was getting harder and harder for McQueen not to pay attention.

‘Teio… She cares a lot for me…’

She wasn't thrown off by Teio's attentiveness, in fact, she found it endearing, but that only made her mind spiral further. ‘What even is there to say about us? She probably just thinks it's fair for when I tried to help her too… Though… All I did was encourage her…’

It didn't matter how many tries McQueen tried, she felt like she was beating a dead horse. She had even told Special Week about the conversation she had with Suzuka, but the other could only say “I just think Teio cares a lot about you.” Teio was undoubtedly a blessing in McQueen's life, always pushing her to do better and to improve, but she couldn't find an answer to Suzuka's question, at least for now.

McQueen decided to drop it for the time being, as she quickly found herself in her dorm, her room-mate not yet present. She removed her shoes and sat on her bed, allowing herself to relax, looking down at her legs. She felt her eyelids grow heavy, the specialised training, the thoughts and her routine proving too much that day. As she allowed herself to lay down, one final thought crossed her mind.

‘Even if I don't have an answer, I have time to think about it…’

————————————————————————

The Kyoto Kinen was approaching, and even though she tried, Teio just couldn't stay still. Even though she had ended her hiatus with the Arima Kinen, it still didn't quite feel enough. Teio wanted to show that she was back and that she was there to stay. Before stepping back into the Spring G1 races, a smaller stepping stone was waiting for her.

Despite all the time she spent without running, she knew that just because she won the Arima Kinen, it wouldn't mean that she would perform a miracle on every race, so she agreed with her trainer's plan in winning a G2 race first to prove she was still capable.

It was now Monday of the week of the Kyoto Kinen, and Teio was once again early for training, something she managed to convince her trainer to help her with. In her mind, every ounce of energy she could put onto her training would only help her make sure she'd perform as well, if not better than her previous race. There was, however something that pushed her further. She had been very present in McQueen's life recently, helping with every way she could. While she cared deeply for her friend, there was also something she just couldn't not notice. McQueen was recovering fast, maybe too fast. She knew very well that McQueen was determined to return, but even more to defeat her. Teio wouldn't dare let her rival overtake her, but she knew the other would be on the same wavelength. Teio knew McQueen better than anyone, at this point, and she knew just what she was truly capable of.

Specks of dirt were being thrown across the track, as Teio cleared the final corner of yet another lap. She gritted her teeth, putting every single once of power she had onto her stride. Her legs strained and her lungs burned as she flew across the straightaway. Though it was only in her imagination, a figure found itself running in front of her. When she was first injured, she learned how to imagine herself running just by observing others run. A byproduct of this training, was that she learned to do the reverse. The girl in her mind kept running, putting a great effort to keep her lead from Teio. Teio's eyes went wide, as she tried to get every little amount of energy onto her legs, trying to catch up.

‘I'm not going to lose… McQueen!’

“Alright, Teio! That's enough for now!”

Teio suddenly found herself back to reality, remembering she was still training. She slowed down, her breathing ragged, and beads of sweat flowed down her face. She looked back to see her trainer waiting for her, stopwatch in hand.

“Here.” He said as he approached her, holding her bottle of water.

“Oh… thanks…”

“Let's stop for now. I want you to have energy for when the others arrive.” He told her, patting her shoulder. “I know you're excited, but I don't want you getting tired before the race.”

“I guess I've been pushing myself a bit, haven't I?” She said, scratching her head.

“I'm having you take it easy until Thursday.” He began. “But I have a special task for you today.”

“Really?” She asked excitedly, her tail wagging. “What is it?”

“You'll see…”

“Traineeeer! Please don't tease me!” She plead.

“Relax, Teio…” He chuckled, looking towards the main building. “Look, you're friends are already coming.”

As he said this, Teio spotted the other Team Spica members. Though she was happy to see them, her eyes instantly searched for purple-hair, which she easily found. Her gaze narrowed on McQueen, and compared to last week she looked different. McQueen was usually composed, but that day, Teio could almost imagine a faint glow coming from her. ‘She looks happy today. Maybe she enjoyed the weekend.” She thought, finding herself smile a little. ‘Oh, wait! That's right!’

“Good morning, girls!” The trainer greeted. “Today is going to be a bit different.”

The others looked at him curiously.

“This week I want you to work on your top speed.” He began. “We've been working on your endurance and I'm pleased with your results, so this week we're changing it a bit. We're using the shorter track to make timed runs. You'll be making pairs. One of you runs while your partner times you, then you switch.”

“That's pretty good and all…” Gold Ship began. “But without McQueen we're five people. Don't tell me, trainer…” She said, beginning to grin. “Are you going to run as well?”

“Of course not, silly.” He told them, making the girls laugh. “Teio needs to save energy for the Kyoto Kinen this week, so she'll be doing something different. You guys can start, I'll be with you shortly.” He instructed.

Gold Ship and the others began making their way onto the other track, leaving McQueen and Teio with their trainer.

“McQueen.” He called. “What did your doctor say?”

“He said my leg is in good condition.” The girl told him with a smile. “As long as it's not intense, I can do light runs.”

“That's great news!” He beamed. “Well, Teio…” He said, turning to the other girl. “Your special task is to jog with McQueen.”

Teio's eyes went wide. Her tail began to shake violently, and her ears perked up. Before she knew, she was beginning to hop in place.

“Really?” She asked. “Trainer, you're not teasing me, are you? Am I really running with McQueen?”

A fit of giggles was heard, and Teio went red, hiding her face, and looking at the floor.

“Teio…” McQueen began, still giggling slightly. “I'm sorry, but I couldn't help myself. You looked absolutely adorable!”

Teio's ears dropped, as her embarrassment grew, her face covered in red. “D-don't tease me! I was just excited and… Agh! This is so embarrassing!”

McQueen giggled again, the trainer joining in, as Teio fidgeted in place.

‘She's never going to let me live this down…’

“Well, Teio, I want you to watch for McQueen while she runs.” He instructed. “That way you can still run without getting tired. I'm leaving you two, now.”

Their trainer began walking towards the other members who were doing warm up laps on the shorter track, leaving Teio and McQueen alone.

“Shall we begin, Teio?” McQueen asked.

“Yeah…” Teio answered, her face still lightly red.

She watched as McQueen took a deep breath and started walking. Teio positioned herself on McQueen's left side, matching her pace. McQueen slowly began frisk walking, feeling how her leg responded, Teio watching closely with bated breath for any discomfort. Their speed increased gently as they began planting their feet toe first, opposed to their heels and soon, they were now jogging. Teio watched in delight as McQueen's face lit up at herself.

“Teio! Look! I'm running!” McQueen said proudly.

“Yeah… You are!” Teio noted, smiling fondly.

The two girls maintained their pace, falling into comfortable silence. Teio found herself gazing at McQueen, unable to look away from her smile as she was finally starting to run, even if slowly. ‘She looks so happy!’ She thought, feeling her heart swell.

“This feels so refreshing!” McQueen exclaimed. “I've been waiting for this!”

“It's nice to see you like this!” Teio said, making McQueen giggle. “How was your weekend, by the way?”

“I still had to rest on my bed, but it wasn't as boring, this time. I had someone to keep me company.” She told her.

“Oh!” That's why you didn't call me, this weekend.” Teio commented, feeling dejected, though she did not understand why.

“Oh, Teio…” McQueen commented as they entered a corner. “Have you forgotten already?”

“What?” Teio asked confused.

“You gave me a plushie of yourself!” She reminded her. “You sent my a cotton version of yourself and forgot about it?” She teased with a giggle.

“Oh! I totally forgot about it. Heheh…” Teio said, feeling lighter. “Well, that was the intention. It means it worked.”

“And I must say…” The other began, shooting her a grin. “I never thought you could look so adorable!”

“W-what?” Teio shouted, her face steaming.

“Oh, but you were!” McQueen continued, looking pleased at Teio's reaction. “And you looked so happy when I held you in my arms while I was reading my book…”

Teio's face was now completly red. She looked the opposite direction of McQueen as her tail began to wiggle erratically, as she heard her friend giggling by her side.

“But you know?” McQueen began, her grin fading into a fond smile. “I really owe a lot to you. You've been looking out for me more than anyone else. Just being next to you makes me feel relaxed. With you…” She said, looking at Teio. “I believe I can do anything!”

Teio stared at McQueen, her ears twitching. She focused on McQueen's smile, as her heart fluttered and her legs feeling just a bit lighter. She kept gazing at her friend as she felt herself smiling lightly. 

“I'm glad!”

The two girls kept running slowly, not paying attention to anything else. Even if briefly, Teio felt as if time stopped just for them in that moment. Even though they were rivals, she appreciated her bond with McQueen the most. As deep as their rivalry went, she still saw McQueen as someone she genuinely enjoyed spending time with, and just jogging with her, while her leg was still recovering was enough to make her feel warm inside. They entered another corner, observing their teammates training further ahead on another track. As they watched them, an idea flashed in Teio's mind, as she turned to McQueen.

“By the way…” She began, catching McQueen's attention. “Do you want to hangout in Valentine's?”

“Eh?” McQueen said, her as her face went scarlet.

“Since it's the day after my race, I was wondering if you wanted to hangout.” She explained. “You know, like a small celebration, or something.”

“Oh…” McQueen stammered, showing a mix of confusion and something else Teio couldn't quite understand. “Yes, I'd love to. But on one condition.” She said.

“Hmmm?” Teio asked.

“You have to rest before your race.” The purple-haired girl told her friend. “You are training far too much. Even our trainer is worried.”

“Oh… It's just that.” The other girl said.

“Teio, please…” McQueen plead softly. “Will you do that for me?”

Teio didn't know what she felt exactly during that moment, but McQueen's soft tone, and the concern in her eyes proved too much. As Teio understood McQueen's concern, she smiled softly and she made her decision.

“Yeah… I'll relax a bit.” She told her. “But, can I still jog with you?”

McQueen smiled fondly at her. “Of course, Teio.”

————————————————————————

To Teio, the week had passed quickly. Between her preparations for the upcoming Kyoto Kinen and in accompanying McQueen on her jogs, she found little time to think about the race. She was now in bed on Wednesday night. Her room-mate, Mayano Top Gun, who would be her adversary the following day was already sleeping soundly in her own bed, her soft breathing barely hearable on the other side of the room.

Teio allowed herself to think about the previous days. Her original plan had been to keep training hard for her race, but she was talked out of it by McQueen. ‘Maybe it's good that she actually convinced me to rest.’ She thought. She reminisced about Monday morning. She was early once again, running at full strength while imagining McQueen's image running in front of her. She would've probably kept running to the point of exhaustion, had her trainer not snapped her out of it. What stuck with her, however, was McQueen's plea. McQueen had now started to jog lightly, much to her delight, and Teio was thrilled to run besides her. While inviting McQueen to hang out the day after her race, the other girl said she'd only do it if Teio allowed herself to rest. Teio remembered how vulnerable McQueen had looked, and she still remembered McQueen's relief when she agreed. Teio's chest tightened at the memory, as she left her thoughts to wander. ‘Maybe she's the one looking out for me.’

She didn't dwell too much, however, as the memories of her runs rushed to her mind. Until that point, she'd notice how McQueen would sit by herself restrengthening her leg, and how she would look at her and the other Spica members every time they ran by. When she finally got a chance to run, even if slowly, she was elated. McQueen wasn't one to express her happiness too openly, especially when compared to Teio, but on that day, she didn't hold back. Teio smiled fondly as the memory of her friend proudly claiming that she was running again flooded her mind. During that week she had held herself back from training and accompanied McQueen when she ran. To Teio, running next to her felt just right, and she adored the sight of McQueen smiling the whole way through.

Teio finally felt tiredness beginning to take over. She let her eyelids blink until they were finally closed, as McQueen's smiling face popped up in her mind.

‘Tomorrow, I'm definitely going to win!’

Chapter Text

Thursday had finally arrived. There was a cheerful atmosphere within Team Spica as they rode the train to Kyoto for Teio's race. The duo of Scarlet and Vodka, who were unusually quiet, sat on the row with two seats. Special Week and Gold Ship were sat on the other side, their trainer on the third seat next to the aisle, with Gold Ship in between. Finally, McQueen and Teio were sat directly behind Scarlet and Vodka, with Teio close to the window as she gazed at the scenery. It was close to lunch time, and their train was close to reaching Kyoto.

Teio was shaking her leg slowly, as she thought about the upcoming race. For her, it didn't just feel like a race. She knew all eyes would be on her, but most importantly, “she” would be giving her full attention. ‘I can already feel her eyes on me!‘ She thought, her leg shaking more intensely.

“Are you nervous?” She heard a voice say.

She looked to her side, where McQueen was now smiling softly. ‘Oh, maybe that's why!’

“No… Maybe just a bit.” Teio admitted. “But it's not because of the race.”

“What do you mean?” McQueen asked.

“Well…” Teio began, choosing her words carefully. “You know… I really want to give you something to look forward to. I want to…” She said, her words failing her. “Ugh… How can you say these things so easily?”

McQueen giggled as she watched Teio struggle to convey her feelings, making Teio smile briefly. ‘Her giggles are kind of cute, now that I think about it.’ She noted.

“I know I helped you push yourself when you were injured…” McQueen began. “But you don't have to go out of your way. Just watching you run is already enough to make me not want to fall behind.” She said fondly.

“I guess I'm worrying too much, aren't I?” Teio questioned.

“Just a little bit. But I have to admit…” McQueen told her, grinning slightly. “I quite enjoy seeing you like this.”

“Ah! Stop it!” Teio said, her face flushing.

“Oh, Teio, I can't help but tease you when you're like this!” McQueen explained.

Teio, went completely red from their interaction and hid her face in her hands, leaning forward slightly, as McQueen giggled again. ‘She didn't use to tease me this much!’

“We're almost there, girls!” The trainer's voice suddenly called. “Get ready.”

Following their trainer, the team members got up from their seats, moving towards the door, as the announcer’s voice informed the passengers that they were approaching Kyoto. The train began to slow down as the station grew near, eventually coming to a full stop upon arrival. 

Team Spica hopped off the train along with a considerable amount of passengers. ‘Maybe they're here to watch the race.’ Teio thought. As she observed the crowd, she recognised a girl with orange hair standing out from the crowd.

“Hey, Mayano!” She called out loud.

The other girl looked in her direction, smiling as she recognised her room-mate, approaching her.

“Hello, Teio!” The other girl greeted. “You got here early!”

“I'm the one that should be saying that!” Teio chuckled. “You were still sleeping when I left.”

“Yeah…” Gold Ship muttered from behind. “But we got here later because one of us overslept…”

“Ahaha…” Special Week, who was behind the group. laughed in embarrassment, scratching her head.”

“Well, I hope you're ready, because I'm not going to let you win today!” Mayano told Teio, her tail waggling.

“Oho! I think you should be careful, because I'm going to give my all, today!” Teio said, her own tail shaking in anticipation.

“And I thought her and McQueen were too much.” Vodka commented, crossing her arms.

“What are you talking about?” Scarlet retorted. “This is pretty tame compared to when she's with McQueen.”

“Well, I have to go!” Mayano told them. “See you later, Teio!”

“Bye!” Teio replied.

The group watched Mayano flow back into the group, disappearing out of sight.

“Alright, girls!” Their trainer called out. “Let's have some lunch first, then we'll go to the racecourse.”

The group began following their trainer out of the platform into the lobby of the station. Teio was walking next to McQueen. She looked to her side, and noticed something unusual. Just before they left the train, McQueen was heavily entertained by Teio's reactions to her teasing, but right now, she looked completely different. Teio noticed how McQueen was looking ahead, her ears dropping and a serious look on her face. Teio grew concerned, not knowing what happened in such a short time window.

“McQueen, are you okay?”

McQueen's ears twitched, as she suddenly gasped, looking back at Teio.

“Did something happen?” Teio asked, concerned.

“Oh…” McQueen began. “Don't worry, Teio. I was just remembering something.” She told her.

“Don't forget you can tell me anything, okay?” Teio reminded her.

“Oh… You don't need to worry about it…” McQueen said, her voice sounding unusually high. “It's something silly, really…” she said, blushing lightly.

Teio stared at McQueen, her concern turning into confusion. ‘Okay, McQueen is definitely acting weird…’

“I wonder what we're going to eat…” McQueen said, smiling to herself as she changed the topic. “Maybe I can have something sweet just this one time…”

All Teio could do was stare in disbelief, as McQueen suddenly went back to her chipper self once again.

‘What's up with her, today?’

————————————————————————

The Kyoto Kinen would happen later in the afternoon, so Team Spica went to lunch at a restaurant not too far from the station. The group took the chance to unwind after the trip, Special Week making sure she was enjoying her meal to the fullest while the others engaged mostly in conversation.

McQueen was, however, slightly detached. It wasn't unusual for her to keep to herself and only participate occasionally, but this time, she found herself not paying attention to her friends at all. Her mind was stuck on a loop, replaying how she felt at the station. The sensation she felt was novel, and that alone made her feel uneasy. She spent the majority of the train trip quiet, with the exception of her teasing of Teio as they were nearing Kyoto, which she had enjoyed thoroughly. After they stepped onto the platform, however, something happened that completely overthrew her mood.

She replayed the event in her mind, her stomach lurching at the thought. They had found Mayano Top Gun at the station, which was to be expected, since she would be running the same race as Teio. McQueen was already acquainted with the small girl, having even talked to her previous occasions, and she found her quite charming. When she saw her at the station earlier that day, however, she felt her throat constrict, and her chest growing tight. McQueen had stood nearby as she watched Teio speak to her room-mate and rival in the upcoming race. She heard Vodka and Scarlet comparing the small rivalry in front of them to her own rivalry with Teio. McQueen knew very well that she had no reason to see Mayano in a bad way, yet whenever she thought of Teio happily speaking to her, all she could feel was discomfort and a hint of what she believed was anger.

'Why am I feeling like this? Mayano is a very sweet girl. Why do I feel uncomfortable seeing her with Teio? It doesn't even make sense!’

It was now time for dessert, and McQueen ordered a slice of chocolate cake. ‘Here go my efforts of keeping my weight down the drain…’ She thought dryly. ‘But… Just this once is fine, right?’ She ate her slice at a leisurely pace, carefully using her fork to repeatedly break the slice into bite sized pieces, savouring each one. Though her feelings remained in her mind, the cake managed to lift her spirits slightly.

They eventually made their way to the Kyoto Racecourse. As the time for the Kyoto Kinen approached, Teio went to her changing room to prepare for the race. The remaining members and their trainer went to the paddock, as more and more people began to gather. The announcer's voice was heard, as she was now starting to prepare for the entry of each racer.

Surrounded by the noise of the crowd, McQueen remained quiet, her mind still flashing images of what happened at the station. ‘Why can't I stop thinking about it?’ She thought as her frustration built up. ‘Just what is going on with me? Why am I overthinking a totally harmless interaction? Why does seeing Teio speak to someone else make me feel… Angry?’ McQueen kept spiralling, but the more she thought about it, the less sense she could make out of it. She felt her stomach lurch again, and she clutched it for comfort. ‘What am I even getting angry for? For seeing two friends speaking? How shameful is it for me to be thinking those things about Mayano? Just…’

“McQueen, are you feeling okay?” A voice called.

McQueen's thoughts were stopped abruptly. She looked to her side, following the direction of the voice, finding a concerned Special Week.

“Are you feeling sick?” She asked. “Do you need to go to the bathroom?”

McQueen stared at Special Week, realising she had probably seen her discomfort.

“Oh… I'm sorry I made you worry, Spe.” McQueen reassured her. “I was just… Thinking about something…”

“Is it bad?” The other asked her. “You can tell me.”

“I don't even know what it is…” McQueen began. “I never felt this way before. I can't make sense of what is happening!”

“Just tell me from the beginning.” Special Week suggested. “When did it start?”

“This morning… After we left the train.”

“What happened?”

“I…” McQueen tried to explain, her ears dropping in embarassment. “You'll think I'm awful for it…”

“McQueen…” The other began. “I could never think of you as awful! Just tell me what happened.”

“Fine…” McQueen obliged. “When I saw Teio speaking with Mayano… How can I put it… I felt… That I wanted to be the one Teio was talking to… That it should've been me…”

“Oh…” Special Week said, her eyes widening slightly, before smiling lightly. “So you get jealous, too…”

“Come again?”

McQueen felt as if someone had thrown a bucket full of water onto her. ‘Jealous? No… It's not possible… I'd being shame to the Mejiro name by feeling such…’ Though she did not want to believe it, Special Week's words began to spiral inside her mind. She tried to deny it, but the more she thought about it, the more sense it made, and that frustrated her.

“You know…” Her friend began, noticing her uneasiness. “It isn't always a bad thing. Teio is always being nice to you and telling everyone you're her rival and how much she wants to beat you… It just means you really enjoy how she treats you.”

McQueen felt herself slowly starting to accept the possibility. She looked back to the last few weeks, and how Teio would always go out of her way just for McQueen. Teio would notice things others wouldn't. She would offer to help McQueen in others wouldn't consider. She would keep her company, even when she didn't know she wanted it. The more McQueen thought about it, the more she realised just how much she had gotten used to Teio's care, and how it was tailored just to McQueen.

“Maybe… I've taken her for granted.” She said.

“No, that's not it.” Her friend corrected. “You're just realising how much it means to you. You want it to keep happening.”

McQueen faced Special Week. At the same time, Mayano Top Gun was on the paddock, mimicking a plane as she run its length, giving a small peck on both her hands and pointing at the audience. McQueen felt herself smile. Though she found the small girl's move charming, it was not what caused her mood to improve.

“Teio… She really cares about me, doesn't she?”

“She does!” Special Week agreed. “You're lucky to have her by your side!”

“Yes…” McQueen told her. “Thank you, Spe!”

“You're welcome!”

“Now, finally…” the announcer’s voice was heard. “On bracket number 3, the favourite of today's race… Tokai Teio!”

The crowd cheered and clapped, as the curtains of the paddock opened wide. From behind them emerged Teio, positioned sideways. She began walking towards the edge of the paddock, moving her legs almost as if dancing, her famous Teio Step.

“She's cute when she does that, isn't she?” McQueen said to her friend.

“Oh?” Special Week blurted out.

McQueen took a second to process what she had just said. Her face went scarlet, as Special Week giggled gently next to her. She  looked above to the paddock, where Teio was smiling at the crowd. She saw her scanning the audience, as she finally looked towards her. Teio paused slightly as she looked at McQueen, throwing her an open smile. McQueen felt her heart flutter, as her cheeks got warmer.

‘Oh, the things you do to me…’

————————————————————————

Teio walked down the tunnel. She could just make out a faint sound of cheering coming from outside as she and the other girls were beginning to enter the track. Her and the others' steps echoed gently, as they approached the exit. As she was nearing it, she saw a mesh of purple, one she recognised very well. Just before her race was McQueen, waiting for her, alone. Teio gave her friend a smile, walking towards her.

“It's just you?” She asked.

“Yes…” McQueen began. “Gold Ship convinced the others to send you their energy.”

“Oh! That thing we did with Suzuka and Spe's races?” Teio asked.

“Yes…” The other confirmed with a small smile, remembering their silly antics.

“I still remember how you were doing it.” Teio cleared her throat, putting on her best McQueen impression as she extended her arms. “Win! Win! Win!”

“I don't sound like that!” McQueen exclaimed. “Do I…?”

“Heheh… Just kidding.” Teio told her. “Well, I got to go. I hope to see you when I finish!”

“Good luck, Teio!” McQueen said to her.

“Thanks!”

With a wave, Teio resumed her way towards the exit, letting McQueen return to the stands.

‘I'm definitely going to win!’

The sound of the cheers became clearer, the the sunlight filtering onto the exit of the tunnel. As she stepped out of it, the crowd roared excitedly, as she stepped onto the turf.

“Finally, coming out of the tunnel is Tokai Teio!” The female announcer’s voice rang out. “Even after fracturing her leg three times and taking a whole year to recover, she won last year's Arima Kinen! We're looking forward to see how she'll perform as she tackles this Kyoto Kinen in preparation for the Spring races! Now, it's time for the fanfare!”

As Teio began approaching the gates, the sound of horns could be heard. The crowd cheered, as the fanfare preceding the main event played. Teio looked scanned the crowd, and shortly after the fanfare ended, she found her teammates, spotting McQueen joining them after meeting her at the tunnel. She waved at them as they cheered excitedly, McQueen being her usual composed self, simply giving her a small wave accompanied by a warm smile.

“Are you ready, Teio?” A voice close to her asked.

She looked to her side, spotting her room-mate back at the academy.

“Oh, Mayano!” She greeted. “Don't fall behind, okay?”

“Hehe…” The other laughed. “You'll be the one that will need to catch up to me.”

The two kept their conversation brief, as they were now preparing to enter the gates.

She looked back at the crowd one last time to where her teammates were, spotting McQueen still smiling at her.

‘Watch me!’

She entered her gate at bracket number 3. It wasn't a position that favoured her too much, being closer to the inner line, but she believed in her ability to detach herself slightly from the pack before the other girls could block her path. The gates were located a few hundred of meters before the goal post, where they would pass before doing a whole lap clockwise around the track.

‘Mayano is definitely going ahead. I should just observe her until we get to the hill.’

Teio glanced slightly to her right, observing the third and fourth corners, visualising how she'd race before looking back forward. She had raced this course before, and she knew the slope, titled the “Yodo Slope” too well, for it is on this same track where the Tenno Sho is held. While the memories brought back with them unpleasant feelings, Teio shrugged them off. She wasn't the same Teio as before. Of course the defeat still stung, but she wouldn't mope about it. ‘All I have to do is to keep winning. I'll do it because of her!’ Teio gazed ahead, her heart thrumming in anticipation. She closed her eyes briefly and exhaled, as an image of McQueen flashed through her mind.

With an audible click, the gate in front of her open, and almost in perfect timing, she propelled herself forward with her foot, placing the other right in front, as she began her stride. The wind rushed past her, as she and the other girls flew out of the gates. The crowd erupted in cheers, as the sound of their steps thundered across the turf. The runners approached the goal post, dashing straight past it, beginning the lap around the Kyoto Racecourse.

“A beautiful start for all runners!” The announcer's voice exclaimed. “Mayano Top Gun flies with ease as she takes the lead! Tokai Teio is further behind running right next to Slow Dancer! They're both battling for a good position within the pack! Flying Rocket is beginning to fall behind! Is she loosing her footing, or is it strategic?”

True to Teio's prediction, Mayano had taken the frontmost position, beginning to put distance between her and the pack. Teio knew that if she wanted to overtake her, she'd need to challenge her at a corner. Being near the inner rail while within the pack made this task tricky, however. The announcer’s voice could be heard informing the audience of the girls' positions in the race. Teio began detaching herself from the inside, as the first corner approached. She was now in eighth place, the pack running close together, a few girls scattered further behind. Though it helped with the wind resistance, she was beginning to get boxed in, as the sound of the steps of the girls running right next her became almost deafening to her ears. She knew she'd have to make a move soon, or her position within the pack would severely impact her chances later in the race.

Teio observed the pack in front of her, as the first corner loomed closer. She saw a gap that could fit close to two people between two girls running right in front of her. She took the chance, right as they began to turn to the right. She accelerated slightly, inching closer between the two girls, their shoulders being only a few centimetres from her. She could hear the crowd cheer as she moved up, but she didn't pay attention to it. The sideways force began pulling her outwards and the wind direction changed slightly as she turned. The girl to her right decelerated slightly for the turn which gave Teio space. They approached the connecting point between the first and second corners, and Teio forced her legs harder. She felt her breathing quicken as she moved further ahead along the track. Another girl on her left, running closer to the outside lost momentum and Teio took the opportunity to carefully step in front of her. She was now in fifth place.

“Tokai Teio begins withdrawing from the pack!” Said the announcer. “Foxy Lady has given up fifth place! What an amazing display! She now has room to catch up to leader! Further behind, from the outside is Pretty Optimist! She's pressuring Red Tornado running inside!”

While the positions changed behind, further ahead Teio was starting to feel the burn. Her legs strained and her heart raced in her chest. She neared the end of the second corner and she felt the sideways force slowly beginning to fade. As the backstretch entered her view, she spotted Mayano's bright orange hair waving with her every moment. She felt the sound of footsteps behind her dim slightly, meaning that some girls were starting to fall behind. Further ahead she could see the turf sloping slightly. ‘There!’ She thought to herself. ‘That's where I'll make my move!’

“Now, onto the backstretch!” The announcer called out. “Mayano Top Gun is currently leading by 3 lengths! The difference between the leader and the trailer is 13 lengths! Flying Rocket is beginning to fall further behind! Maybe today isn't her day! The girls will soon face the Yodo Slope. Who's going to come out on top? Can the favourite, Tokai Teio, catch up? Will she show us the her strength from the Arima Kinen? Mayano Top Gun keeps her lead. Mountain Wind is falling from third place! Taking her place is Shooting Star speeding up on the inside!”

Though the straightaway was long, the third corner was starting to show its fangs, as the runners approached it. The Yodo Slope loomed ominously, promising to affect their pace right before the goal.

Teio's gaze intensified on Mayano Top Gun, then onto the Slope. ‘She's won't be going much faster than this. Now it's my turn!’ Between her and Mayano were still three opponents. Before she could challenge Mayano, she had to first overcome them and close the distance with the leader. Grunting slightly, she forced her legs to increase their pace as the third corner approached.

“Tokai Teio is here! She's speeding up from outside! The others in front keep their pace! They can't stop her! The third corner approaches! Tokai Teio is moving up!”

The other girls noticed Teio closing in, glancing slightly back. Though they wished to prevent her, Teio's strength proved too much, as she began passing them with ease as they neared the slope. One by one, they could only watch as Teio accelerated, seeming as if she had unlimited strength. Teio could hear their footsteps trying to keep pace with her, but they soon faded.

‘Almost there!’ Teio noted. ‘The track is going to tilt now!’

Teio observed the third corner, as the slope in the track became more and more noticeable.

“It's Tokai Teio!” The announcer exclaimed as the cheers got louder in Kyoto. “She's right behind Mayano Top Gun! The lead has shortened to 2 lengths! They're entering the third corner!”

Led by Mayano Top Gun, the runners finally reached the final section before the homestretch. Mayano had now entered the corner, as her stride became shorter, Teio following her.

Teio could begin gravity pulling her behind, but she pushed forward. She was now directly behind Mayano Top Gun, only about one length away. She felt the lateral forces of the turn and gravity pulled her in the opposite direction. She ran close to the inner line, Mayano blocking her path. She could faintly hear the leader's ragged breathing and Teio's own breathing was starting to showing strain too. Teio's legs pushed the turf backwards as her body was propelled forward. She could feel the turf giving under her feet, the fourth corner approaching steadily.

The scenery rushed past her vision, nothing but a blur. The cheers of the crowd were becoming stronger and stronger. She could still hear the announcer's voice, but she paid it no mind. The slope was now beginning to even out, as the fourth corner loomed forward, where it would descend onto the homestretch. Mayano Top Gun was now within an arm's reach, as Teio gritted her teeth and used every bit of energy she had. Her brows furrowed in concentration and her lungs worked through the burn. Her legs felt a brief moment of relief, as gravity was now slowly beginning to aid them while she entered the final corner.

“From the outside, Tokai Teio! She's neck to neck with Mayano Top Gun! They're speeding up with the slope! But Mayano Top Gun isn't budging! Can she do it? Can Tokai Teio take first place?”

The two girls were now almost side to side, as Teio began gently stepping left of Mayano.

Teio felt the slope fading beneath her feet, her stride lengthening again. The wind flowed quickly past her face, as Mayano stood right next to her, unstoppable. ‘This is it now! I can see the goal! Let's go!’

Pushing her legs with all she had, she entered the homestretch, the goal looming closer and closer. Mayano's own steps thundered right next to her. Being side by side, she could no long gauge who was currently leading. The stands were now in full view, the goal post approaching steadily. The cheers became louder as the announcer’s voice grew louder as they passed the 200 meters mark. The steps to her side began fading, slowly, but surely. Teio could see her shadow, but her shadow only. Her eyes widened, focused on the goal. Her legs pushed and pushed, and her lungs strained with the effort. The steps that were once next to her became quieter and quieter as she passed the 100 meter mark. The goal was near. The crowd roared. The announcer’s voice rang.

“Tokai Teio! It's Tokai Teio! She's unstoppable! Tokai Teio!”

The goal filled Teio's sight. Her legs strained. Like the wind, Teio flew right past it.

“Goal!” The announcer's voice rang out. “Tokai Teio shows her dominance once again! Mayano Top Gun is second! In third is Shooting Star!”

The crowd roared once again. The remaining runners crossed the goal. In front of them Teio began slowing down steadily, as they too began slowing down. Her legs began feeling lighter and lighter as her speed decreased, her lungs working to return Teio's breathing to a normal pace. Her heart throbbed in her chest. Teio could feel her blood flowing as she smiled gently. 

She looked at the stands where the crowd was chanting her name, just like she did back in her previous race. She closed one eye and raised her right hand, with her thumb and pinky closed, as everyone erupted in cheers at her signature pose.

Her eyes searched amidst the crowd, looking for the purple patch of hair she already knew very well. Soon she found the person she was looking for. In the middle, close to the wall near the track was McQueen. Her face appeared to shine brightly, as she flashed a delighted smile in Teio's direction. Teio found herself returning the gesture. ‘She looks pretty when she smiles, huh? I never noticed that!’

Behind her, a soft sigh was heard. Teio looked back, seeing her room-mate, Mayano Top Gun struggling to catch her breath.

“Teio…” The girl began. “You're so… Fast…”

“You were fast, too, Mayano!” Teio tried to reassure.

“But…” Mayano said, smiling gently. “Look!”

Mayano pointed towards the sign with the results, Teio's gaze following it. Up top Teio's bracket number was clearly marked, followed by Mayano's. She looked to the distance display. She had managed to win with a lead of 3 lengths.

“You're so fast… It's almost unfair…” Mayano said dejected. “I was so far ahead…”

“Don't beat yourself up!” Teio told her. “You ran pretty well too! You're still fast, Mayano!”

“Really?” The girl asked, her eyes shining slightly.

“Yup!”

Mayano managed a soft smile, as she heard Teio's words. She stared at her briefly, before going back to her chipper self.

“Mmm! I'll do better next time!” Mayano said.

"Heheh… That's better!” Teio acknowledged.

She watched as her friend waved at her briefly, before going to one of the runners to greet them. Teio looked back at the stands, walking towards where her teammates were. She could see them cheering, their trainer crossing his arms while smiling proudly.

“Here she comes, the star of the show!” Gold Ship announced to the group. “Everyone, a round of applause to Tokai Teio!”

After Gold Ship's playful comment, the members of Team Spica clapped as Teio got closer.

“Heheh… Thank you, guys!” Teio said.

“That was some nice running, Teio!” The trainer told her. “You're faster than ever!”

“That was better than nice, it was amazing!” Vodka said out loud, her voice loud.

“Mmm!” Scarlet nodded. “That was very good!”

“Did they just agree on something?” Gold Ship noted, eyes wide.

Scarlet and Vodka glared at her, making her recoil slightly.

“I'm joking!” The tallest said in a higher pitched tone.

“Here we go…” Teio muttered, smiling gently.

“You did well Teio!”Special Week told her,  “Suzuka wants to congratulate you too!” She said while holding her phone and pointing the screen towards her.

“Oh? Suzuka!” Teio greeted as she recognised the face on Special Week's screen.

“Hello, Teio!” The other girl greeted. “Congratulations on your win! You ran well!”

“Thanks, Suzuka!” She said. “Thank you, Spe!”

As Teio felt the adrenaline wearing off and her breathing started to stabilise, she found herself looking to the side. Still smiling, next to her teammates, was McQueen, the remaining member. As Teio looked at her, her smile widened.

“Did you see me?”

“I did.” McQueen said. “Well done, Teio! You ran so well! I couldn't take my eyes off you!”

“Oh, yeah…” Gold Ship interrupted. “She was gripping the rail really hard and everything. It was amusing to watch!”

“I was not!” McQueen retorted, her face flushing.

Teio giggled slightly, as McQueen turned to face her, slightly embarrassed, but smiling. Teio felt her own lips breaking into a wide smile, overwhelmed with joy.

“I did it, McQueen!”

Chapter Text

It was Valentine's day. While classes and training went as normal, the academy felt livelier than usual. Most of the girls kept rambling about Valentine's, or day dreaming about love, while others simply enjoyed the atmosphere. An activity that took many by storm, however, was giving out chocolate. This was not unusual, in fact, many girls had been anticipating the day for that reason alone. Some gave it to their close friends to celebrate their bond, while others did it with more romantic connotations. Regardless of the reason, it was difficult not to find someone that wasn't caught up in the buzz.

McQueen had just left the cafeteria, her classes having finished before lunch. She and her teammates were dismissed of their afternoon training, courtesy of their trainer. Despite having just eaten, every time she spotted a girl holding a box of chocolate was enough to set her off her craving for sweets. Despite all of it, she did her best to ignore the countless boxes of sugary delights.

It was a Friday, and normally she would go back to the Mejiro Estate to enjoy some time with the other Mejiro, and with her injury, she would also take that time to rest and let her doctor observe her healing. This time however, she had plans. Said plans just happened to take in the form of someone she found herself thinking about more and more.

Teio had suggested hanging out at the begging of the week. On that very same day, McQueen had finally go back to running, albeit slowly. McQueen had never felt so free since the start of the recovery, but most importantly for her, Teio was there. Teio had always been present, whether it was just to provide company, or to help her whenever she needed, and on Monday, she was present in one of McQueen's most important step of her recovery to full strength. During the week, since Teio was not to overtrain before her race, something that she had been doing constantly, she accompanied McQueen in her light jogs. Though it was an order from their trainer, Teio had seemed to honestly enjoy her time running alongside McQueen, and McQueen reciprocated the feeling.

On the very same week, just the day prior, Teio had run in the Kyoto Kinen, thoroughly winning it without problems. The day had been a roller-coaster of emotions for McQueen. Between handling newfound feelings of jealously, something she couldn't accept was true at first, and cheering for Teio, it had been emotionally draining for McQueen, but she wouldn't trade the smile Teio had given her after the race for anything. Deep down, she couldn't help but wonder if that smile the same she gave her fans, of it was just for her.

She was now in front of the gates. Though hanging out with Teio was nothing new, the occasion bothered her.

‘Seriously, Teio… Did you really have to invite me on Valentine's? What if people get the wrong idea?’ She thought, flushing slightly at her own thoughts.

Thought Teio claimed it was just to hangout after the race, McQueen couldn't help but overthink it. What worried her the most was people seeing them and drawing their own conclusions, and she hoped Teio wouldn't tease her too much. As she waited, McQueen began looking at her outfit. She smoothed inexistent creases and wiped imaginary specks of dust. She began paying attention to every detail about herself, making sure they were up to her high standards. As a member of the Mejiro family, she already took care of her presentation carefully, but today, she found herself obsessed. ‘I wonder how my hair is today… I hope it didn't get into any knots…’ As her mind imagined non-existent problems, she brushed her hand through her locks, looking for any imperfections. She then stopped suddenly, a single thought flashing through her mind.

‘Wait! Why am I so obsessed with my appearance?’ She thought, flushing slightly. ‘I care for it everyday, why am I so nervous?’

She fidget in her place, as she picked up her phone.

‘Where is Teio, anyway?’

Almost comically, as she questioned about Teio's whereabouts, she felt a presence appear behind her.

“Hey!”

McQueen stumbled forward, almost dropping her phone in the process. She looked behind, finding Teio grinning mischievously.

“Teio!” She retorted, her face red. “Don't scare me like that!”

“Hehehe! You were so focused on checking if you looked good, I just couldn't help myself!” Teio teased.

“I… I wasn't doing that!” McQueen replied, crossing her arms as her tail waggled slightly faster.”

“You know, we're just hanging out! Although…” Teio said, her grin growing wider. “Were you trying to look good for me?”

“What… What gave you that idea?” McQueen said, her tone increasing in pitch. “Besides, you chose Valentine's of all days.”

“Yeah…” the other said, scratching her head. “That is my fault, yeah… But honestly, I just wanted to hangout, nothing serious.” She explained. “And since it's Valentine's, we could buy chocolate for the whole team. What do you say?”

“That is…” McQueen began, her voice returning to normal. “That is actually a great idea!” She beamed. “I happen to know a few chocolate that the others would love! So many choices we could choose from…”

McQueen began smiling widely, imagining all the sweet options they would eventually find.

“There goes your sweet tooth…” Teio said, smiling slightly.

“Ah! No, I…” McQueen stuttered, clearing her throat afterwards. “I have experience in choosing sweets, so I'd be happy to help you.”

“Yeah, yeah…” Teio said, shaking her head. “Anyway, should we go?”

“Yes!” McQueen nodded. “Let's go!”

“Oh, by the way…”Teio began, pausing slightly.

“Hmmm? What is it, Teio?” She asked her.

“You do look pretty, if that's what you worried about.” The other said softly, smiling gently. “Well, let's go!”

McQueen stared at her friend before they both began making their way to the shopping centre. The compliment swirled in her mind. ‘Teio never called me pretty. Is she teasing me because of Valentine's?’ She felt herself fidget slightly, her face going red briefly. ‘Does she really think I'm pretty?’ She looked back at her friend, who was humming to herself. McQueen allowed herself to calm down before engaging in conversation.

“Do you have any ideas in what you want to to give them?” She asked Teio.

“Hmmm…” Teio placed a finger to her lip, looking upwards in thought. “I kind of want to get everyone the same thing… It'd be easier…”

“That might be the better choice.” McQueen agreed. “Trying to appeal to everyone's tastes might cause problems. Different sizes and formats could make someone feel underappreciated.”

“Heheh… You really are an expert of sweets!” Teio beamed as they both turned into a lively street.

“This doesn't apply just to sweets, you know?” McQueen said, pouting gently. “And just because I enjoy them doesn't automatically make me an expert. I'm just used to it.”

“I know, but…” Teio hesitated a bit, before her smile widened. “It gives me a reason to invite you.”

McQueen felt her face flush as Teio muttered those words. The other realised this as she too went red in her face, appearing to be shocked at her reaction.

“Wait!” Teio said, visibly panicking. “Not like that! I told you already it's not because today is Valentine's!” She paused for a few seconds, taking a deep breath, before proceeding. “I've been wanting to hangout with you for a while… Ever since you got injured you always seemed so lonely… I wanted to do something fun with you so you could forget about it.”

McQueen gasped softly after she heard what Teio had to say. She saw Teio smiling softly, trying to hide her embarrassment. McQueen felt herself smiling too.

“Teio…” she began. “You already do so much for me… You don't need to go that far.”

“I know…” the other said. “But I want to.”

“Teio…”

McQueen prepared to respond, but Teio quickly shifted her focus to what was in front of her.

“Oh, look!” She said, pointing ahead of her. “The decorations look so cute!”

McQueen looked in front of them. They could see the shopping centre in front of them. The entrance had been decorated with Valentine's decorations, full of red hearts of various sizes and red lights.

“They really don't want you to forget that today is Valentine's, huh?” Teio asked.

“Right…” McQueen muttered.

The two entered the building. Quickly their sight was overwhelmed with pink and red as far as the eye could see. Many shops, cafes and restaurants could be seen advertising their Valentine sales. Some had minimal decorations, only just enough to show they had special deals just for that day. Others took it much further, using vibrant posters and big letters to draw costumers, something that was proving to be effective, as many were convinced by this tactic.

McQueen looked at the different shops, hoping to find any where they could buy something for their friends. She noticed a cafe advertising their sweets, in which they would come at a reduced price for couples. She felt her mouth water at the idea, but she quickly scolded herself. She was still very adamant about following her diet and there was also the guaranteed risk of her and Teio being seen as couple, a thought that made her face go red. She tried to brush the thought aside, but Teio suddenly looked towards the same café, her tail wagging in excitement.

“Look! They're doing a couple's discount there!” Teio told her eagerly.

McQueen felt a sudden urge to bury her head in the floor.

“But we're not a couple…” She said, her face still flushed.

“So?” Teio asked. “We can just pretend!”

“Are you even listening to what you're saying?” McQueen said exasperatedly.

“Come on!” The other urged. “You don't need to worry about it. And I know you really want something sweet after seeing everyone getting chocolate all morning.”

“Well…” McQueen began. “But my diet…”

Teio suddenly interrupted her, grabbing her hand and tugging it gently. McQueen noted how cold they were.

“Let's go! My treat!” Teio beamed.

Before she had a chance to fight back, McQueen felt Teio pulling her towards the café. Even though Teio's hand felt cold while holding her, McQueen only felt herself get warmer. ‘This girl…’

Fuelled by Teio's energy, McQueen felt herself following along while the other pulled on her. They entered the café, which had a few tables free, and a few couples could be seen occupying the remaining tables. McQueen noticed a young couple, a boy and a girl, where the girl was giving her boyfriend a bite of her cake. Though McQueen found the gesture endearing, she was focused on the cake itself. ‘That one looks good! Maybe today I really should let myself go a bit…’

As she weighed her options, she noticed a server, a girl in her twenties, approaching them slowly.

“Welcome! Are you perhaps here for the couples discount?” The girl asked.

“Yup!” Teio answered without hesitation, which made McQueen blush. “We just want to have something before going shopping.”

“That sounds wonderful!” The server beamed. “What would you like to eat?”

“Hmmm…” Teio began, before she glanced back at McQueen. She smiled softly at her, before turning back to the server. “I'll have what she chooses.”

“M-me?” McQueen asked.

“Yup!” Her friend said. “I said it was my treat, so I'm letting you choose.”

“I see…”

McQueen started fidgeting slightly. Teio kept looking at her, expectation evident in her eyes. McQueen glanced at the display, looking for anything she thought would be a good choice for both. Her eyes scanned the different choices, landing on a few slices of cake with white frosting and a piece of strawberry.

“I'll go with that one.” McQueen told the server.

“That's one of the customers favourites!” The server told them. “Please, feel free to choose a table. I'll be there with your slices of cake shortly.

McQueen and Teio thanked the girl and went to pick one of the free tables, sitting at one near a corner. Shortly after, the server appeared carrying two slices of the cake McQueen had ordered, placing them in front of them along with two small forks.

“I hope you enjoy it!” The server said as she finished settling the plates.

The two thanked her and grabbed their forks. McQueen looked at her slice and quickly her eyes went wide at the sight.

“This looks better than I expected!” McQueen exclaimed. “I bet it tastes wonderful!”

“Heheh… You look happy!” Teio noted.

“Ah… Ahem…” She quickly corrected, blushing softly with ears dropping slightly. “I just think it looks delightful.”

Teio giggled at her reaction, which made her smile softly. She picked her fork and carefully cut a small piece of cake, slowly putting it in her mouth. Her ears shot up as the taste filled her mouth and her face broke into a satisfied smile as she slowly ate the piece she had.

“Is it good?” Teio asked enthusiastically.

“Teio, you have to try it!” McQueen suggested.

“If you say so.”

Following her suggestion, Teio picked up her own fork and placed a small piece into her mouth. Quickly she too found herself reacting similarly to McQueen, as she let out a small squeak of happiness.

“It's so good!” Teio beamed. “I knew I could trust you!”

“I… Thank you, I think?” McQueen said, giggling softly.

She observed as Teio placed another piece of cake into her mouth and once again reacted with delight. ‘Now that I think about it, she looks cute when she makes that face.’ She thought, as she found herself smiling at her friend.

“So…” McQueen began, hoping to change the subject. “You're going to the Osaka Hai next, right?”

“Yeah…” Teio confirmed. “The trainer said that I would run it if won the Kyoto Kinen.”

“I think he already planned on it, regardless.” McQueen explained, taking another piece of cake. “He probably just wanted you to do your best to see if you really were at full strength.”

“I thought that too…” the other agreed. “I think I saw him with an application for the Osaka Hai even before the Kyoto Kinen.”

“See?” McQueen said with a smile. “And what will you do after the Osaka Hai?”

“The Takarazuka Kinen.” Teio told her. “I'll have to train hard to beat Grass.”

“Hmmm?” McQueen looked at her, intrigued. “You don't plan to take on the Spring Tenno Sho again?”

Teio's ears perked up at the mention of the Tenno Sho, as she shot a bashful smile.

“Nah… That's your thing.” She said. “Besides, it's not fun if you're not there. That's the whole reason I ran it last time.”

McQueen was taken aback by Teio's answer. McQueen was very well known by her fans for her performance in the Tenno Sho, and the Spring Tenno Sho two years ago was the very same where she defeated Teio. She knew that Teio saw her as an objective, and she saw her back in the exact same way. Even still, she was surprised at just how much Teio valued their rivalry to the point of not wanting to race in the Tenno Sho if McQueen wouldn't be there.

“Does me not running in it make that much of a difference?” She asked her.

“Of course it does!” Teio explained. “Even if I win it, I have to win it against you! Besides…” She said, beginning to fidget in her seat. “It's more fun.”

McQueen's eyes widened at Teio's admission. “You have to win it against me, is it?”

“Yeah!” Teio almost shouted. “I don't care about winning the Tenno Sho if you're not going to be there. I want to win the Tenno Sho and beat you at the same time!”

“Is that so?” McQueen began, taking another piece of cake before proceeding. “Then, when I finally recover and I refuse you the win you crave so much, don't cry because you lost.” She said, smiling softly.

Teio's face broke into a wide smile, which only made McQueen's more evident. 

“Then I hope you recover quickly, because I'll be waiting for you!” Teio told her. “And don't you dare hold back!”

“You deserve only my best performance. Wait for me until then!” McQueen promised.

The two girls kept smiling at each other, before continuing to eat their slices of cake. They eventually finished, going to the counter to pay. As Teio had promised, she paid for their sweets, though McQueen tried to insist that she'd pay for hers. They bid farewell to the server that received them and went back into the crowd of the shopping centre.

“So, where should we go?” Teio asked. “Do you know a shop that sells good chocolate?”

“I know of a sweet shop further down the corridor.” McQueen told her. “I usually to there when I want to buy something for myself.”

“Let's go there, then!” Teio suggested. “If you go there it means it's good!” She said enthusiastically.

McQueen allowed herself to smile at Teio as they both began making their way down the corridor. They could see multiple couples spending time together and it made McQueen very self conscious about how she and Teio were being perceived. As her cheeks began warming up, she took a glance to her side, but Teio wasn't showing any signs of discomfort. ‘How is she so calm about this?’ She thought. ‘Isn't she bothered about others thinking we're on a Valentine's date?’ McQueen tried to brush the thought aside, but the atmosphere made the task difficult. The more she tried to find a distraction, the more the decorations and the occasional displays of affection of other people made her overthink her predicament. Her tail began flicking widely from side to side and she began to feel that the temperature was just a bit too high for her comfort.

“McQueen, are you okay?” Said Teio who was now looking at her.

“Ah!” McQueen shrieked, being caught off guard.

Teio stared at McQueen with mild amusement as the other gave herself a moment to calm her nerves, clearing her throat.

“Yes… I'm just…” She began, her face still red. “You don't need to worry about me…”

“You sure?” Teio asked, grinning slightly. “You're all red.”

“I… It's not important…” McQueen told her, looking ahead of her. “Look, the shop I told you about is right there!” She said, pointing towards the shop.

Teio looked to where McQueen was pointing, and her tail began wagging as her excitement grew.

“Oh, that looks nice!” She beamed. “They have a lot of stuff too! I bet we can find something for everyone easily!”

“You haven't even gotten in and you're already that excited?” McQueen said while smiling softly. “And I thought you said I was the one with a sweet tooth.”

“I never said I didn't have one too, you know?” Teio told her, shooting her a grin. “Maybe I should get something for myself too…”

The two approached the store while McQueen kept glancing slightly at Teio who was failing to hide her excitement, which only made her smile wider. ‘She really is cute, isn't she?’ As the thought crossed her mind, her face went scarlet once again, and she shook her hand in embarrassment. ‘Why am I even thinking about this? I never paid attention to that before, why now?’

She was quickly distracted from her inner rambling as they entered the store. The shelves were stacked with different kinds of sweets, some shining with different colours as customers observed the different items. ‘Okay, McQueen, you're not here to buy sweets for yourself. You're here to help Teio.’ As she tried not to focus on the different appealing sweets, almost as if they were daring to challenge her to buy them, McQueen began searching for the chocolates. Quickly she spotted a small corner where some customers were gathered. On top she could see a label covered in red hearts, clearly advertising the chocolates specifically for Valentine's day.

“Look, Teio!” McQueen called, pointing to where she was looking. “Those chocolates are on sale.”

“Oh!” Teio noted. “There are a lot of people, we should get them before they run out!” she said, quickly making her way to the chocolate corner.

“I think they have more than just those…” McQueen commented, following after her.

“Look!” The other called, pointing at a squared box. “These have caramel inside them! Oh and look!” She said, observing another box, albeit smaller. “These have both white and dark chocolate!”

McQueen giggled as she observed Teio. “You look like a kid at a toy store!”

Teio's ears twitched as she grew embarrassed. “No I don't! I was just commenting on the chocolates!” She grabbed another box, one that was heart shapes as she brought her knuckle to her face and cleared her throat. “These look absolutely delightful!” She said, attempting a lady-like voice. “But I have to watch my sugar intake… What should I do?”

McQueen felt her body heat spike while Teio shot her a teasing grin. “I don't sound like that!“ She retorted. “And I'm not that worried about my diet!”

“Nishishi!” Teio uttered. “Now we're even!”

The two girls stared at each other, erupting into a fit of giggles, which some nearby customers noticed.

“I swear, Teio… Only you make me act like this!” McQueen commented as she calmed down, giggling slightly.

“Hehehe! It's nice to see you laugh!” Teio said, trying to regulate her breathing.

“Let's try not to take too long.” McQueen suggested as her laughter subsided. “We still need to give the chocolates to the others.”

“Yeah…” The other agreed, still giggling gently. “You're right…”

The two kept looking between the many options, weaving through customers as they too weighed their options for their significant others. The amount of chocolates was numerous, yet they didn't seem to find one that they thought would please their teammates.

“This is trickier than I thought…” Teio muttered.

“Indeed…”

“Maybe we should just stick with chocolate bars?” Teio suggested.

“That seems a bit…” McQueen began, as something caught her attention. “Wait…”

McQueen detached from Teio, grabbing a box that was closer to the ground. ‘This is it!’

“Teio, look at this!” She gestured at her friend

“Oh!”

Held in her Hand, McQueen had a small box of chocolates of various flavours, but none of them being too unusual that their teammates might end up not liking it.

“This way we don't need to worry about one of them not liking the flavour. They'll have more than one to choose.” McQueen explained, turning her head towards Teio. “What do you think?” 

“I think it's great!” The other told her. “Although, I wasn't worried about Spe not liking the chocolates anyway…”

“You have a point there… Should we take a few of these?” McQueen asked, tilting her head slightly.

“Yup! Let's go with this one!”

Finally agreeing on a choice, the two girls picked up a few similar boxes, enough for all of their teammates and their trainer. McQueen noticed, however, that Teio had suddenly started acting odd, almost as if she was hiding something for her. ‘That's odd…’ She thought. ‘She was cheerful just now…’ She looked curiously at Teio, who was looking ahead without looking back at her.

“Teio, are you alright?”

“Huh?” The other suddenly blurted out. “Oh, yeah, don't worry!” She said, forcing a smile.

“You suddenly started acting weird. Did something happen just now?” McQueen pressed, her worry only increasing. “You can tell me.

Expecting something more serious, McQueen was surprised when Teio started fidgeting, her ears twitching. McQueen didn't even realise that Teio had actually been hiding something behind her until she suddenly produced a box of chocolates that she had been hiding.

“It was supposed to be a surprise…” Teio said meekly, as her ears dropped. “But then I realised you'd notice right away and… Ugh… never mind…”

“Teio…”

McQueen paused as she looked at Teio, who seemed to be about to return the box to where she found them. Suddenly, an idea crossed her mind.

“Why don't you go ahead and pay for my “surprise”? She told Teio. “Maybe I should look for something to surprise you too. I'll pay for the rest.”

She noticed how Teio's ears suddenly perked up and her eyes suddenly seemed to sparkle ‘Cute.’

“Alright, I'll meet you at the entrance!”

Before McQueen even had a chance to reply, Teio dashed to the counter with the box in hand. She giggled slightly. ‘This girl…’

She went back to the corner she and Teio were searching. She quickly found the item she was looking for. McQueen had noted a box of honeyed chocolates when they were still searching earlier, and proceeded to take it to gift to Teio. Finally, with her hands already full, she went to the counter to pay, noticing Teio already waiting by the entrance. The transaction went smoothly, the cashier handing her a bag with the chocolates, flashing her a smile, to which McQueen reciprocated. Finally, she left the store, meeting Teio whose tail was flailing in excitement.

“What did you get me?” Teio asked. “Let me see, let me see!”

“Why don't we do it at the same time?” McQueen suggested.

“Oh! Great idea!” Teio said. “Are you ready?”

As McQueen began to pick the box of chocolates she bought just for Teio, the other took the chocolates from earlier. They took switched the items between them, and before McQueen even managed to see what Teio had gotten her, she could already see her shaking from happiness.

“Oh! These have honey!” Teio exclaimed. “I didn't even see those! McQueen you're the best!”

“You're welcome, Teio.” McQueen told her, smiling fondly. “Let me see what you…. Ah!”

Before McQueen managed to finish her sentence, Teio had launched herself at her, hugging her tightly.

“Teio!” She fumbled. “Don't surprise me like that!”

“Hehe…” Teio said, hugging her tightly. “I was just happy.”

McQueen returned the embrace, slightly awkwardly. She remembered the chocolates still in her hand and took a glance to see what Teio gifted her.

“Dark chocolate, huh… Not bad…” she said. “I could have these with my tea.

“Nishishi!” Teio said, withdrawing from the hug. “I knew you liked to drink tea, so I searched about it. I was a bit worried that you wouldn't like dark chocolate, but…” She paused briefly, before shaking her head. “As long as you like it.”

“Don't worry, Teio.” McQueen reassured her. “Thank you!” 

“You're welcome. Come on!” She gestured with her head. “Let's go give these to the others. I already asked them to meet at the team room.”

“Yes.” McQueen said with a nod. “Let's go!”

“I just hope Gold Ship only asked the trainer to meet with the others instead of bringing him in the sack.” Teio said.

McQueen's eyes widened while Teio simply sighed.

“Yeah… Maybe I shouldn't have asked her…” Teio muttered.

“Perhaps… Oh, well…” Was all McQueen managed.

The two made their way back to Tracen Academy, staying silent most of the way. McQueen took the opportunity to let her thoughts wander, most of them being about Teio, most specifically, how much McQueen had been paying attention to her friend. Despite the possibility of other people getting the wrong idea, their day went smoothly. What bothered her was how easily Teio had distracted her that day. She was used to hanging out with Teio, but it had always been very casual in a comfortable way. She could always relax in Teio's presence and simply wind down after a day of classes and training. Today, however, she had been unconsciously paying attention to Teio, too much, she might say. Most importantly, she found herself thinking about Teio in a way she never had before.

‘Cute… That's what I've been calling Teio during the day… But why am I noticing this now?’

McQueen stole a glance a Teio who was simply walking without paying much attention to McQueen.

‘Well… It's not as if it isn't true… Wait, that's not the point! Why am I suddenly thinking that she's cute?’ She asked herself. ‘I never even thought about her looks before! Is this because it's Valentine's?’ Her eyes suddenly widened at her own thoughts. ‘That must be it! I've been self-conscious about the whole thing! Maybe I got caught up in the whole atmosphere! Wait, no! That doesn't make sense! Why is this happening to me?’

Suddenly, she heard a giggle. McQueen looked to her side, finding Teio watching her in amusement.

“What's happening? You're so serious!” She asked.

“Nothing…” McQueen replied, her face growing red. “Just some unnecessary thoughts.”

“Really?” Teio asked, her curiosity peaking. “What are they about?”

“Nothing important!” McQueen said, her voice coming at a higher pitch than usual.

“Okay?” Teio said bewildered. “If you say so.”

The two kept walking, as McQueen remained visibly flustered.

‘Just what is happening to me?’

The two girls eventually reached their school as the sun was beginning to set. They made their way to where their team usually met. As they opened the door, they found part of their team, the bickering duo of Scarlet and Vodka and Special Week, who was sat in front of a box of chocolates.

“Hey, everyone!” Teio greeted. “Oh! Spe, someone gave you chocolate?”

“Oh!” The other girl gasped, a piece of chocolate still in her mind. “Suzuka sent me these! They arrived earlier today!”

“She's been talking about it since we got here.” Scarlet joined in. “It was cute, actually.”

“I don't get it.” Vodka added dryly. “It's just chocolate.”

“Idiot!” Scarlet said to her room-mate, crossing her arms. “At least she has a room-mate being nice to her even when overseas!”

“Huh?” The other retorted. “You want me to buy you chocolate, now?”

“I…” Scarlet fumbled, blushing slightly. “Not that I care if you give me chocolate, or not!”

“There they go again…” McQueen muttered.

“Okay, okay…” Teio interrupted. “Leave that for later. By the way, where's Gold Ship?”

“Oh, she came by to grab her sack and said she was going to get the trainer.” Vodka told her, putting her arms behind her back.

“She actually did it…” Teio muttered.

“Gold Ship being Gold Ship…” Scarlet commented.

Soon after, the door was busted open, getting everyone's attention. From it emerged Gold Ship, carrying a sack, inside of which a pair of feet could be seen dangling from it.

“Sup!” She greeted the group. “Golshi has brought our trainer to our meeting!” She said, placing the trainer on a chair and removing the sack.

“Seriously!” The trainer interjected. “Couldn't you just asked me to come?”

“Oh, yeah… That works too…” Gold Ship muttered to herself.

“Sorry, trainer, I should've asked her to do that specifically.” Teio said.

“By the way…” Vodka interrupted. “What did you call us all here for?”

“Oh, yeah!” Teio suddenly remembered. “Hehe! Me and McQueen have a gift for you guys!”

“Actually, it was Teio's idea.” McQueen corrected. “I just went along.”

“You were the one that chose the chocolate, though.” Teio reminded her.

“Well, yes, but…”

“Guys…” Gold Ship interrupted. “You're starting to sound like a wholesome version of Scarlet and Vodka.”

“Huh?” The other two shouted.

“Anyway!” Teio called before anything happened. “We got you guys some chocolate! Here!”

McQueen, who was still holding the bag from earlier opened it slowly, allowing Teio to withdraw its contents. Teio individually gave one box to each member, each beaming upon receiving it.

“These look so good!” Special Week noted.

“Yeah, they're okay.” Vodka said, smiling gently.

“Silly, your tail is shaking.” Scarlet commented fondly.

“No, it's not!” The other retorted.

“Yeah, whatever…”

“There's none with mustard, but I still like them.” Gold Ship told the group.

“Why do you want chocolate with mustard?” McQueen asked, looking dejected at her teammate.

“These look great!” Their trainer noted. “Thank you girls!”

“By the way…” Vodka called. “Did someone give you two chocolate too?”

“Oh!” McQueen and Teio said at the same time, remembering their own boxes of chocolate that they were still carrying.

“We just…” Teio began.

“Gifted each other chocolate…” McQueen finished.

“Huh…” The other girls said, their trainer simply looking amused at their reaction.

“Maybe I should've gifted something to Suzuka too…” Special Week muttered, her ears dropping. “But I forgot it was today…”

“Just give her a call!” Scarlet quickly tired to reassure. “She'll understand!”

“You already send her lot of carrots, that probably makes her happy already.” Vodka joined in, trying to comfort her.

“Yeah… I guess you're right.” Special Week said, giving her friends a faint smile.

McQueen and Teio watched their friends from the sides, some beginning to open their boxes and trying some pieces of chocolate.

“It seems everyone liked it.” Teio told to McQueen. “By the way, you're butler is picking you up, right? I hope he isn't waiting.”

“Don't worry, I asked him to come a little later. He should be here shortly, actually.” McQueen told her.

"Want me to walk you to the gate?” Her friend asked.

“I would like that.” She said with a smile.

“Guys!” Teio called. “I'm taking McQueen to the gates, I'll come back in a bit!”

“Good bye everyone! See you next week!” McQueen told to the group.

“Bye, McQueen!” The others said.

“Don't stress your leg too much!” Special Week warned her.

“Don't worry, I won't.” McQueen told her.

As she and Teio stepped out the door, McQueen gave a small wave to her friends and trainer before beginning to make her way to the gates.

“What a day, right?” Teio asked.

“Or week.” McQueen said in response.

“Yeah… You're starting to run again, the Kyoto Kinen and now this…” Teio reminisced. “But it was fun.”

“Are you still going to run alongside me?” McQueen asked.

Teio looked at McQueen. Her ears dropped lightly, as she looked ahead dejected.

“I don't know… The trainer only wanted me to not train too much, that's why he asked me to run with you.” She explained dejectedly. “I'll probably start training normally again.”

“Right…” McQueen said, feeling her chest tightening. “I shouldn't get my hopes up.”

“But I can still run with you!” Teio quickly added. “I'll run extra just so we could run together!”

“But Teio, I can only run during normal training, at least for now.” McQueen explained solemnly. “I can't do extra training yet.”

“But…”

“Don't worry, Teio.” She said, giving Teio a small smile. “If all goes well, I might be able to start running close to full strength even before Summer. I should be able to train as usual by then.”

“That's still a while…” Teio said dejectedly.

“Now, Teio, don't grow impatient.” McQueen told her. “You'll have your opportunity soon. If my doctor agrees, I plan to start jogging in the morning in a few weeks.”

Teio's ears suddenly perked up at McQueen’s words.

“Then you better get ready, because I'll wake you up every morning just to do it!” She proclaimed.

“Oh, Teio…” McQueen said, giggling.

“Oh, and when your leg is fully recovered we should start training together on weekends!” Teio suggested. “We could run on that hill that I train at sometimes!”

“Actually…” McQueen began. She felt herself hesitate, but steeled herself to say what she intended to say. “I wouldn't mind you having over the weekend… If that's okay with you.”

“Oh!” Teio said, her ears perking up again. “Yeah, we could do that… Yeah, that's nice!”

McQueen watched Teio curiously. The other wasn't looking back at her, but she seemed to be deep in thought. McQueen also noticed something that she wasn't expecting. ‘Is she blushing?’ Suddenly, she saw Teio smile to herself gently before finally turning to McQueen.

“Maybe not this one… But I wouldn't mind spending the weekend with you.” Teio told her, smiling sheepishly.

“I'll be looking forward to it then.” McQueen said, her heart fluttering in her chest.

The two finally arrived at the gates where, true to McQueen's prediction, her butler was already waiting.

“I hope I did not make you wait.” McQueen told the man.

“Not at all, miss.” The butler reassured. “I just arrived here myself.”

“Hello, mister butler!” Teio greeted.

“Good evening, miss Teio.” He greeted back.

“Well, Teio…” McQueen began. “I'll see you next week.”

“Remember, you have my plushie if you feel too lonely.” Teio told her.

“Indeed. Maybe I should read it a bedtime story again.” She teased

“H-hey! I'm not a kid!” Teio retorted.

“Oh? We're talking about the plushie, not you, silly.” McQueen added.

McQueen watched as Teio fumbled for a response, simply blushing in frustration. She couldn't help but smile in delight as she watched her friend struggle with her teasing. ‘Even if I don't understand why, she really is cute like this.’ She kept watching Teio, as she finally let out a frustrated sigh.

“Okay, you won this one!” Teio said, crossing her arms. “But don't think I'll let you continue teasing me as you please.”

“By all means, do try.” McQueen challenged.

Teio grumbled one more time, before suddenly wrapping her arms around McQueen. She gasped lightly at the sudden display of affection and before she could return it, Teio had already let go.

“Have a nice weekend, McQueen.” Teio said, smiling gently.

McQueen, still caught off guard by Teio's hug, stared back at her friend, before she too started smiling.

“You too, Teio.”

Shooting her a grin, Teio began walking back, waving at McQueen, the latter waving back at her.

“You have a wonderful friend, miss.” Her butler told her.

McQueen felt her hear soar at the comment and her body went warm. She continued observing Teio who was slowly moving way, smiling fondly the whole time.

“I really do.”

Chapter Text

With the Kyoto Kinen now behind her, Teio had already set her eyes on her upcoming race. Teio didn't see the Osaka Hai as an overwhelming challenge and the distance was one she could take easily, but she knew she'd have to give it her all, regardless. She managed to prove that the her performance at the Arima Kinen wasn't just luck, and she wanted to show she could only run faster. Her race in Kyoto was only a way to prove that the Monarch's reign wasn't over yet, and that she still had a lot more to show.

She was once again running in the hill she used to run. She made a habit of running there in the weekends, always trying to improve her stamina. Her efforts were starting to pay off, as she began noticing that her stamina was improving steadily. Long races weren't something that Teio hated, in fact, she had succeed in some, but she would always appreciate the extra stamina she constantly built up. Compared to previous weekends, she was beginning to run for longer times, and she could feel the strain as she pushed her body outside of its comfort zone. 

‘McQueen would have no trouble with this…’

More and more McQueen had been present in Teio's thoughts. On that same week, she had finally started to incorporate light running to her routine, since her doctor thought she was recovering well enough to allow it. Teio had accompanied through the week and she noticed how McQueen's eyes would sparkle every time she set foot on the track. Teio could easily tell just how much McQueen had been missing to run even at slower speed, but she also noticed just how quickly McQueen was improving. While she was thrilled to see McQueen's mood improving steadily as she got back what she had lost, seeing McQueen recover so fast reminded her of their promise.

‘She's recovering fast… Too fast…’ Teio thought. ‘She's amazing! I need to get better! I can't let her surpass me!’

As she steeled her resolve, she suddenly remembered her past week, most specifically, how McQueen had been acting.

‘Actually… She's been a bit off recently, hasn't she?’

Teio recalled the day after the race. It happened to be Valentine's day, and Teio knew the implication, but her ideas was just to hang out with her friend and rival. ‘I thought she'd tease me about it, but it was the other way around…’ she recalled. ‘Actually, wasn't she red a lot of the time? Did I make her uncomfortable somehow? But she seemed to have fun… Maybe it was her worrying about her diet? Yeah, that must've been it! I invited her to buy chocolates, after all!’

She kept running, her body feeling lighter as she recalled her day with McQueen.

‘But it was fun.’ She thought as her lips curved into a smile. ‘We might be rivals, but it's nice to spend time with her.’

Teio eventually finished her training, returning back to the dorms and taking a shower. Her room-mate, Mayano Top Gun, was present, scrolling absent-mindedly on her phone, as Teio exited the bathroom, dressed in more comfortable clothing.

“You took longer than usual.” The girl pointed out. “Are you pushing yourself more?”

“Yup! I need to work hard if I want to want to keep winning!”

“Wow!” Mayano commented. “And here I thought I actually could beat you, but you totally blew past me the other day…”

“I told you to not dwell on it, didn't I?” Teio told her, sitting on her own bed. “You ran pretty fast too.”

Mayano stared at Teio, letting her thoughts wander before coming up with a question

“How do you always push yourself so much?” The girl asked her friend. “You always look as if you have an goal.”

“Nishishi…” Teio snickered. “Well, of course… I want to beat Prez one day, so I have to give it my all, don't I?” She announced proudly, suddenly remembering something. “And well… I have someone I absolutely don't want to lose to.”

“Really?” The other asked. “Who is it?”

“McQueen, of course!” Teio told her. “I may have lost the Spring Tenno Sho against her, but I'm definitely not losing to her again. Once her leg's recovered, she'll be going full strength, so I can't slack off!”

“Hehe!” Mayano beamed. “You really look up to her, don't you?”

“Yeah…” Teio admitted, smiling softly. “I do.”

“Oh, by the way…!” Mayano suddenly called. “How was your date yesterday?”

Teio stared at her room-mate, processing her words. She allowed the word "date" to spiral into her mind, as he felt her brain beginning to fry.

“What?” Teio shrieked, her tail going straight as her face went red. “What do you mean ‘date’?”

“Hmmm?” The other asked in confusion. “I saw you too yesterday at a café. Weren't you two on a Valentine's date?”

Teio began shaking her leg nervously, as her face kept getting hotter and hotter and her ears dropped.

“N-no! You got it wrong!” She stammered. “That wasn't… We weren't… We were buying chocolates for our team and I just invited her to come with me! That's it!”

“Eh…” Her room-mate said dejectedly. “But you two looked so cute while eating cake together… You two looked really happy!”

“That's because…” Teio tried to explain. “Look, we were just talking about stuff, nothing serious…”

“I see…”

Teio fidgeted in place, while Mayano kept looking at her. ‘Why is she staring at me?’ Her room-mate kept looking at her, before her face broke into a smile.

“Well, if you need any help, just ask me okay?” She said brightly.

“Huh? Help with what?” Teio asked in confusion.

“Hehehe… Nothing!” Mayano said, laying down on her bed and grabbing her phone again.

Teio stared at her friend in disbelief. ‘What just happened? And what does she mean by  help?’ She looked at the time in her phone, seeing that it was almost lunch time, an idea popping up.

“Hey, do you want to grab some noodles and eat them here?” She asked. “We could play a game, or something.”

“Oh! That's a good idea!” Her room-mate beamed. “Let me just get ready.”

Teio watched as Mayano hopped of her bed, preparing herself to go out. She put her own shoes on, before looking at her phone, checking her notifications.

‘I wonder what she's up to.’

Her room-mate finished getting ready, and Teio put her phone in her pocket, heading for the door. Her thoughts drifted back to her chat with Mayano, and she blushed a little.

‘Was it really a date?’

————————————————————————

At the Mejiro Estate, McQueen found herself on the training track. She wasn't doing any of her usual regimen, but even just a light jog was enough for her. Her doctor was sceptical at first, and he only agreed to allow her if he was present. McQueen had wished to spend time with the other Mejiro, but different plans left her alone, meaning that running was her only distraction. She had spent Saturday in her room, but this time she was allowed to do stretches, as long as she didn't put extra strain on her leg. She thought her doctor was being too cautious, but she believed his judgement all the same, so she agreed in doing only little exercise, just enough to not stay stuck in bed. She had spent her Saturday this way, and she hoped Sunday would be the same.

She finished a lap around the track, her butler and doctor standing near it, looking for any signs that McQueen was in pain, but they found none. McQueen slowly returned to a slower pace. She believed she could still keep a it, but even the small amount of jogging was enough to leave her satisfied, and she didn't want to risk in ruining her recovery progress. Her butler approached her, carrying a water bottle and a towel, which she received, wiping the sweat of her face before taking a generous gulp of water.

“How do you feel, miss?” Her butler asked with a hint of concern.

“I'm doing alright.” She told him with a smile. “There's no need to worry, I'm not in any pain.”

The butler furrowed his brows, shifting his gaze at the doctor who was standing next to him. “What do you think, doctor?”

“I'd like to do a more accurate assessment later, if possible.” He explained. “However, it doesn't appear as if her leg is experiencing any discomfort, nor does it look like it's reacting negatively to the training. As I said earlier, however, I believe it's best to keep this training session short.” He told them, turning towards McQueen. “Would that be alright with you, miss?”

“Yes.” She replied with no signs of surprise. “I already expected as such. I'm already satisfied with the amount of training I did today.”

“Very well.” The doctor replied.

As the short conversation ended, the group began making their way back to the main building. McQueen took the opportunity to let her mind wander.

Her week had a been a busy one, and she believed that she would only get busier as her leg gained kept recovering. Between her light training, watching Teio race and now the weekend, and her hangout two days earlier, she started to feel that her life was slowly returning to normal. McQueen enjoyed the routine, and the lack of freedom due to recovery deeply bothered her. She would have to spend most of her time resting and whatever exercises she did, were very limited. To her, just being able to run slowly, even if only briefly, was enough to give her sense of control back, a thing she was in great need of after her injury.

The walk to the main building wasn't long, and soon McQueen found herself at her room, as her doctor proceeded with his usual analysis. Failing to find anything of notice, he finished his quick check up, leaving McQueen for the day. The butler, which had been present, politely dismissed himself, allowing McQueen to have her privacy until it was time for lunch.

McQueen was now laying on her bed again. On her bedside table was a book with a bookmark, close to completion. She had tried to read it slowly, hoping not to finish it too quickly, but her progress had quickly put her close to finish reading the book anyway. She glanced to her side, next to her pillow, smiling at the sight. Right next to her was the plushie that Teio had gifted her a week earlier. The gift made her heart flutter, both at her friend's gesture, but also due to it being a toy version of herself. To McQueen, it was as if Teio was there personally, and to McQueen, regardless of what form she took, Teio's presence always managed to calm her.

McQueen picked up the plushie, focusing on its smile. Even through the cotton version of her, McQueen could still feel Teio's vibrant energy coming out of it. As she stared at it, she remembered how week went, especially how she felt during Valentine's.

‘I have been really conscious of Teio, lately.’ She thought. ‘I never felt like this before. I wonder why?’

McQueen clutched the plushie, hugging it gently against her chest.

‘She's just my friend. Sure, we get along very well, but… Why am I paying so much attention to her?’

With a deep sigh she hugged the small Teio tightly, as if she feared it would run away. She laid down backwards, staring at the ceiling, her mind drifting and her heart pounding as she reminisced about Valentine's day.

‘Why does she make me feel this way? Why am I even overthinking this?’

McQueen loosened her grip on the plushie, slowly hovering it over her head, staring at it, a blush creeping onto her face.

‘And why is she so cute?‘

McQueen let out a frustrated groan and she turned on her bed until her face was buried in her pillow. She grumbled onto it, while her tail flicked from side to side. She wanted to scream onto her pillow, but she held back, not wanting to be overheard and worry the staff, or her family.

‘Why is this happening? What's wrong with me?’

She settled the plushie next to her head, staring directly at it.

“Don't look at me like that!” She told the plushie before burying her face in her hands, grumbling once again.

‘What is happening? What made me act like this in the first place?’

Her eyes shot wide, as her she focused on her last thought. A questioned that she had been mulling over returned once again.

“McQueen… How do you feel about Teio?”

McQueen repeated the question in her mind, hoping to make sense of her situation. ‘How I feel about Teio… She's my friend, isn't she? But then why…?’ McQueen sat up and grabbed her phone from her bedside table, looking at the time. ‘She should still be awake.’ She looked for Suzuka's contact, pressing the call button after finding it. The phone rang for a few seconds, but to McQueen, they felt longer than usual. Her mind was a mess, and she couldn't make sense of her feelings, but she figured that Suzuka could potentially help her. ‘I've been paying attention to these things after she asked me that question… It must be related.’ Finally, the phone stopped ringing.

“Hello, McQueen?”

“Hello, Suzuka. I hope it's a good time.” McQueen greeted.

“Don't worry, I'm not in bed yet. Do you need help again?” Her friend asked.

“I do, but… This time is different.”

“Really? How different?” Suzuka asked, curiosity evident in her voice.

“How do I put this…” McQueen began. “Do you remember what you asked me the other day?”

“Oh, that!” She heard her say. A small giggle was also heard over the phone. “I'm sorry if it bothered you. Did something happen?”

“Well…” McQueen said. “I found myself paying attention to her more often. I don't know why I do it, but… Whenever she's with me, it's as if I start feeling hyper-aware of what she's doing. I'm paying attention to everything she does, how she worries about me… This never happened to me, before.”

“I see…” Suzuka said. “And what else?”

“You see…”

“Go on, I won't judge.” Her friend urged.

McQueen stood in silence, her phone in hand. She stole another glance at the plushie as she struggled to connect her thoughts in her head.

“On Friday…” She began telling” Me and Teio went to buy chocolates for the whole team and… I spent most of the time paying attention to her, how she acted around me… And…”

“And?” Suzuka asked.

“Ugh... This is embarrassing…” McQueen said, her face turning scarlet, as the memories flooded her mind, specifically those involving her inner thoughts.

“It's okay, I'm listening.” The other told her.

“I…” She managed. “I though that… She was cute… There I said it!”

She heard another giggle coming from the phone, which only furthered intensified her embarrassment.

“Well, that is endearing.” Suzuka said. “And how do you feel about it?”

“Well, for starters, it's getting increasingly difficult to think about anything else.” She began. “I don't understand why I'm paying so much attention to my friend, and why I'm suddenly thinking that she's…” She paused briefly, her face feeling overwhelmingly hot. “Cute… And I don't understand why I'm thinking this about my friend… It's frustrating!”

“I can see that.” Her friend noted. “Do you not like how she makes you feel?”

“I don't understand.”

“I mean…” Suzuka began. “Do you not like that you're paying attention to Teio? Do you not like that she cares for you that much?”

“I…” McQueen said, her thoughts spiralling as she processed her friend's words. “Well… I do feel a bit lighter when she's around. She's always looking out for me and she's always doing her best to be able to defeat me… And well, I can't lie that she's fun to tease…” She said, as her lips curved upward.

“You two really get along well.” Suzuka noted. “So, now I ask you… Do you think you see her as just a close friend?”

“Come again?” McQueen said in confusuion

“You don't need to give me an answer now. I believe you have too many things to think about already.” Her friend told her. “But try to think about it for a while. Maybe you'll discover something.”

“What do you mean?” McQueen asked.

“You'll see.” Suzuka told her. “I should get ready to sleep, but think about it okay?”

McQueen stood silent briefly allowing Suzuka's words to sink in. “I'll try.”

“Good.” Her friend said. “Thank you for calling me about this. Bye!”

“Goodbye!” McQueen said.

McQueen heard the sound of the phone call ending as she placed her phone on the bedside table. She picked up the plushie once again, placing it on her lap, looking at it.

‘I see Teio as a close friend… But why does my heart flutter when I think about her?’

She leant back once again, staring at the boring white ceiling as she tried to figure out her own thoughts.

‘I feel relaxed when she's with me, she always manages to cheer me up when I'm feeling down… But isn't that what friends do?’

Her frustration increased as her mind struggled to come with an explanation, but McQueen felt that she was simply tying knots around her brain.

‘What's so different about Teio that makes me have these thoughts? I don't understand!’

She turned to the side, staring out the window, placing the plushie right in front of her.

‘Teio… What have you done to me?’

————————————————————————

The weekend had been uneventful for Teio. Besides spending time with her room-mate, she did little out of the ordinary. The Osaka Hai was still a bit over a month away, which meant her training would return to normal. Previously she would be fine with this, but this time, she wasn't too thrilled about it.

McQueen was finally starting to incorporate running into her rehabilitation, even though it was at a lower pace. Teio had spent the previous week keeping her company, since she was training too much for the Kyoto Kinen, so their trainer had her accompany McQueen to keep her busy. With the race out of the way, Teio was back to the usual training, which meant leaving McQueen on her own.

Teio finished changing into her tracksuit, as the other Spica members were still changing into theirs. She spotted McQueen zipping up her jacket, looking at the ground. Teio found this unusual. She knew that McQueen wasn't too talkative, but she seemed too quiet to what Teio thought was normal.

‘Is she okay?’ Teio thought.

She walked over to McQueen, who didn't notice her approach.

“Hey, McQueen?”

The purple-haired girl, who appeared to be in a daze while putting on her sneakers, looked towards the source of the voice, making eye contact with Teio. The two stood in silence, simply staring at each other.

“Are you okay? You seen out of it today.” Teio said, breaking the silence.

McQueen didn't react immediately, her gaze still focused on Teio. Then, suddenly, her eyes widened as her face got red.

“O-oh!” She stammered, her voice higher than usual. “Yes, I'm… I'm perfectly fine, thank you.”

“Really?” Teio pressed.

“Y-yes…” The other told her. “You don't need to worry about me, I'm in perfect condition.”

Teio raised an eyebrow as she observed her friend fidgeting in space, her tail wagging in embarrassment.

“Are you sure? You're all red.”

“Don't worry about that!” McQueen retorted, her voice raising slightly, prompting her to cover her mouth in embarrassment. “Sorry, I… let's just get to training.”

Without further discussion, McQueen zipped up her jacket and walked off the changing room, heading for the training grounds. Teio, along with the other members, who had been watching, looked between them, trying to make sense of the situation.

“So…” Vodka began.

“What just happened?” Scarlet asked.

“Guys, I think McQueen got replaced by a clone made by aliens.” Gold Ship said.

"Your brain needs to be studied.” Scarlet told her. “You say the weirdest things.”

“But she's acting really strange, isn't she?” Special Week asked the group.

“Guys…” Teio called, getting her teammates' attention. “I know it's confusing, but maybe we should just trust McQueen to tell us if she wants too. Maybe she's just having an off day.”

The others looked between each other, then back at Teio with a nod.

“You're right.” Scarlet said. “Let's just focus on training, but let's see if she acts off.”

“That sounds good.” Teio agreed. “Come on, guys, let's go!”

Followed by her friends, Teio left the room. The group begin making their way to the training rounds. Teio kept thinking about her friend and her previous behaviour. ‘McQueen looked frustrated at something. Did something happen? Maybe it's about her leg?’ Teio kept trying to find a reason that explained McQueen's earlier actions, but every reason she thought of was worse than the previous one, and she stopped herself before she spiralled into excessive worry.

They finally reached the training grounds and found McQueen and their trainer waiting for them. Teio took a glance at McQueen, looking for any sign of uneasiness. McQueen met her gaze, holding it briefly, before her face went red once again, as she looked away in embarrassment.

‘What's up with her?’

“Alright, everyone.“ The trainer called. “First, I want to congratulate Teio once again for her victory. Good job, Teio!”

The group clapped around her, making her do a peace sign in response.

“As for today's training, I want you to work on your acceleration. Some of you have been doing well with your top speed, but don't reach it soon enough. As you get better, some things just need to be improved further. We can't be satisfied with previous good results. While you get better, your opponents improve too.” He explained to them. “Also, just for the warm-ups, McQueen will be with you, but make sure you don't go too fast.”

The group's mood brightened as they all focused on McQueen, who smiled sheepishly.

“Is your leg that good, already?” Scarlet asked. “Will you be running soon?”

“If you want, I can give you some carrots to help you recover even quicker!” Special Week offered.

“Oh, Spe and her carrots…” Vodka muttered, chuckling.

“I don't think I need that many carrots…” McQueen began. “But I appreciate the gesture.”

“Say, McQueen…” Gold Ship called. “We should go sell Yakisoba together. That will make your leg stronger much quicker.”

“I don't think that's necessary…” The other told her.

Teio watched from the side, amused at the antics. While she was smiling, she felt a pressure in her chest. A bitter taste filled her mouth as she saw her friends interacting with McQueen.

‘They're all around her… But she looks away when she sees me… Well… At least her leg is still good.’

“Girls, I know you're happy for McQueen, but it's time for your warm-ups.” The trainer instructed them.

“Come on, McQueen!” Gold Ship urged. “You're the boss today! You set the pace!”

“Me?” McQueen asked.

“Yes!” Special Week added. “We'll only go as fast as you go!”

“In that case…” McQueen said, smiling softly. “Follow me, everyone!”

McQueen began slowly walking, gently increasing her stride and her teammates followed. They set their feet onto the track, McQueen running ahead of the group. Teio unconsciously detached herself, speeding up slightly so she could run next to McQueen.

McQueen looked sideways towards Teio. Teio noticed this and shot her a smile, hoping to cheer up her friend. Unexpectedly, McQueen stared at her yet again before facing forward. Teio's smile faltered and she felt her heart drop. She suddenly felt the urge to puke, as her stomach twisted at McQueen's sudden cold treatment.

‘What is happening? Did I do something?’

The group approached a corner and Teio remained by McQueen's side. She observed McQueen carefully, but she only grew more confused the more she stared. ‘Is she mad at me?’ Teio thought. She steeled herself, hoping to get an answer from her friend.

“McQueen, is something bothering you?” She asked her.

“No, Teio.” The other said, not making eye contact. “Like I said, I’m okay.”

Teio felt her throat going dry, beginning to get slightly anxious.

“McQueen…”

“Teio, please…” McQueen said, growing impatient.

“But…”

“Please, stop!” She said, harsher this time.

Completely taken off-guard, Teio gasped at McQueen's response. Her stomach lurched and her legs suddenly grew weak as the corner of her eyes suddenly began to water. McQueen seemed to hear her, as she took a side glance at Teio. She turned her head to better gauge her reaction and her face fell suddenly. Her eyes widened in shock as she covered her mouth.

“Oh, Teio, I'm so sorry!” She quickly told her.

Teio kept looking at McQueen, unsure on how to react.

“That was foolish of me…” McQueen scolded herself. “I shouldn't have lashed out at you… I'm just…” She stopped, taking a deep breath before continuing. “I'm dealing with something frustrating but… I don't want you to get worried.”

“But you can trust me.” Teio reminded her.

“I know, and I do.” She told her. “But this thing is one I have to figure out on my own. Just this one, okay?”

The two stayed in silence, as the group finished the first corner and entered the second. 

“Hey guys!” Gold Ship's voice rang from behind. “Is everything okay?”

The ears of the two girls twitched at the sudden call out and both looked behind, finding their teammates looking nervously at them.

“Oh!” Teio said, looking behind. “Yeah, don't worry!”

She looked back to McQueen on her side, ignoring the worried glances of her teammates running behind then. Her friend waited patiently for an answer as Teio tried to place her worries on the side, at least momentarily.

“Just this one.” Teio told her. “Or else I'll force you to go to the Arcade with me to wind down!”

She flashed a teasing smirk at McQueen, hoping to cheer her up. McQueen looked at her, and upon seeing Teio's face, she broke into laughter. Seeing her friend finally break from her previous sulking made Teio's lips curve into a smile of her own. ‘That's better.’ She thought. They kept running as they exited the corner onto the other straightaway, while McQueen attempted to control her laughter.

“Oh, Teio…” McQueen managed between giggles. “I can't handle you when you're this adorable!”

Teio stared at McQueen, surprised at the sudden admission. Her hears shot up as the words clicked in her mind, her heart suddenly racing.

“H-huh?” Teio stammered, as her face heated up quickly.

McQueen first looked confused at Teio's reaction, but then eyes shot wide and her tail straightened itself in shock.

“Forget I said that!” She suddenly buttered out. “Pretend you didn't hear it!”

McQueen looked ahead once again, refusing to make eye contact with Teio. Teio followed suit, her own embarrassment plaguing her, her face burning furiously. She tried to focus on her running, but she could swear she heard snickering from behind, which only made it worse. She took a glance back at McQueen who was still looking ahead. Her face was just as red as Teio's and had a difficult expression. Teio looked ahead once again, the day's events making less sense every second that passed.

‘McQueen, what is wrong with you?’

Chapter Text

For McQueen time was passing quickly. Caught up between her increasing training activity, classes and tests, she found herself busy enough to let everything else just go by. Her weekends were getting progressively busier as her leg kept recovering. Her doctor had been observing her every time she jogged on the Mejiro estate's track, but McQueen never showed any problems. At some point, he eventually lifted her bed rest on weekends, on the condition that she wouldn't overexert herself.

It was now in the middle of March and the Osaka Hai was approaching, but too was her birthday. As the month was nearing the end, she began wondering about how it would go. She didn't take her birthday too seriously, in fact, just her friends remembering was enough, but this time, it was different. While her routine had managed to distract her somewhat, she was facing a confusing time in her life.

Recently, she was starting to act differently around Teio. She had always acted warmly with her. Their rivalry was one built around respect and fuelling each other's desire to run, and their bond was such that many would consider them to be best friends. McQueen had never thought about it, but this year was proving to be different. Ever since she started recovering from her injury, she and Teio had been spending more time together, and McQueen was noticing the differences.

At first she shrugged it off, Teio was her friend after all. She would help her more than the others, or just try to make her feel better, even when she wasn't necessarily feeling down. McQueen never felt the need to think about it, but Teio would flood her thoughts often and she couldn't understand why. When she called Suzuka about her previous question, one that had had been stuck in her mind since, she felt that she got closer to the answer, but at the same time, it felt like she only got further from figuring out.

‘What exactly is Teio to me?’

It was Friday and Spica was training as usual, doing their warm-up laps. While she still wasn't in perfect condition to run, McQueen was finally participating along with her teammates. At first, she would do them at a slower pace, but as the weeks passed, McQueen finally began to warm up at the usual pace, which she was very happy to do. She still wasn't allowed to do the same training as her friends, but she was gradually beginning to participate in activities that didn't rely on her running at full strength, such as jogs, or lighter forms of strength training. Her trainer was still navigating the challenges carefully, always making sure that McQueen would be able to endure the sessions, but she felt that soon she'd be able to run like she used to.

McQueen was running behind her friends, preferring to be able to be lost in her own thoughts. Right to her side she could hear a set of footsteps matching her pace. McQueen looked to her side, finding Teio running next to her.

‘She's running next to me again…’

Ever since she started running with the rest of the team, Teio would always ensure she was next to McQueen. She could be running ahead, or behind, but the shorter girl would always keep pace with her. McQueen didn't mind Teio's presence, but having her friend so close to her when she was currently having her mind full of thoughts about her never failed to make McQueen feel self-conscious.

‘If she knew I was thinking about her, I'd be doomed!’ She thought as her face warmed.

McQueen stole another glance at Teio who was staring ahead. ‘Good, she didn't notice.’

They entered a corner, following the others running ahead of them.

‘I seem to never be able to stay calm when she's near me… It's not like I dislike it but… What if I lash out again?’

McQueen's worry wasn't unfounded. Ever since she called Suzuka again, she'd been thinking about Teio more and more. Whatever feeling she had frustrated her, but being near Teio only made her feel more confused. McQueen enjoyed being with Teio, but the thoughts she was having about her were unnerving her deeply to the point where she'd act different with her friend. It wasn't common, but occasionally she'd act colder to Teio, or just outright fail to notice her, only to act cheerful with her five minutes later. The confusion was such that even some of her teammates asked if she and Teio and a fight. She cleared the corner, her friend still keeping pace with her.

‘I need to make sense of these feelings before I do something I'll regret!’

“You're looking really serious there!”

McQueen was quickly pulled from her inner monologue as a voice next to her brought her back to reality. She looked to her side, only to find Teio observing her.

“Come on! What are you thinking?” The girl asked her. “Are you thinking about when we finally race again?” She teased.

McQueen let out a chuckle. “If you're asking me that, then you must be worried. Am I recovering quicker than you anticipated?”

“Heh… You wish. Don't think that I'm going to slack off just because you can't race yet. Just wait until the Osaka Hai.” Teio told her with a grin. “You'll see.”

“Hmmm…” McQuenn mused. “Maybe I'm not giving you enough credit. I'm lucky to be your rival.”

Teio giggled slightly before responding, looking forward again. “Your rival… That sounds nice.”

“What do you mean?” McQueen asked her, her previous defiance now gone.

“Well…” Teio said, her cheeks toned pink. “There are many people that want to beat you, but… I'm the one you focus on.”

“Oh…” McQueen said, blushing slightly. “Well… I can't help it when you mean so much to me.”

“Huh?”

“You're always pushing yourself to be the best, you refuse to give up, but you're also caring and sweet and…”

“Umm…” Teio interrupted, her cheeks red. “Aren't you getting a bit off track?”

McQueen looked at Teio before realising the words that just came out of her mouth. She quickly felt her face scalding ans she began speeding up slightly, overtaking Gold Ship that was close to them.

“Huh? McQueen?” She heard Teio call.

“Oho!” Gold Ship commented “McQueen's fired up today!”

“T-that's not it!” McQueen said, close to shrieking, which made her teammate laugh.

‘This is going to be the end of me…’

The training session proceeded without issue, the trainer only briefly checking McQueen after the sudden burst of speed. Though it didn't affect her leg at all, she scolded herself for getting careless. Eventually they all went to change before they would eventually finish for the week, the weekend being right ahead of them. McQueen changed in silence, not thinking about anything as her friends chattered.

“You know…” She hard Scarlet say. “McQueen is recovering really well, isn't she?”

McQueen's ears perked at her name.

“Yeah, did you see her suddenly speed up?” Gold Ship joined up. “She was like… Kachow!” She shouted, making exaggerated gestures.

McQueen blushed lightly, smiling to herself as her friends praised her. She finished changing into her uniform, getting her bag ready to leave.

“She's been forced to take it easy, no wonder she wanted to let it go!” Vodka told them. “Imagine when she's back!”

“Everyone…” McQueen interrupted, smiling sheepishly. “I really appreciate it, but I did that on accident. I was… flustered.”

“Oh, yeah…” The tallest of the group joined in. “You were talking with Teio about something before suddenly dashing.” She said, turning to the shorter girl. “What were you two talking about?”

“Ugh…” Teio mustered, her ears dropping in embarrassment. “We were just talking about some stuff…”

Everyone in the room stared at Teio.

“What kind of stuff?” Scarlet asked.

“You know… Rival stuff…” Teio said with a nervous chuckle.

The group intensified their gaze on Teio, who was now looking at McQueen for help. McQueen felt her face warm up and shook her head to the sides.

‘Don't say it!’

“You know… How much I want to beat her after she recovers and… Well you guys know the rest…” Teio tried to explain.

McQueen let out a sigh of relief.

“And why would McQueen be flustered about that?” Vodka asked.

McQueen felt her heart rate spike as her tail began shifting.

“Yeah, why would she get all red in the face for you being rivals?” Gold Ship said with a deadpan.

The group kept gazing at Teio who was now resembling a cornered animal.

“Guys… Why are you asking me this stuff?” She began.

“Oh, you're right!” Gold Ship suddenly exclaimed, turning towards McQueen. “We should ask McQueen over there!”

The group shifted her focus towards McQueen, whose face was now redder than Scarlet's hair.

“Huh, me?”

“Yeah, who else?” The tallest of the group said.

“But…”

“Oh!” Teio suddenly interrupted. “I suddenly remembered McQueen needed to help me with something!”

Teio suddenly grabbed her bag and ran towards McQueen, grabbing her hand and pulling her.

“Teio, you're still in your tracksuit!” McQueen tried to remind her to no avail.

“Don't worry about it!” Teio told her, barely allowing her to grab her own bag.

The two left the room, Teio pulling McQueen gently by the hand. They weaved through students, distancing themselves from the room, walking at a brisk pace until they were outside, walking towards the gates. The two stopped briefly, letting their breathing return to normal.

“Finally…” Teio said, breathing a sigh of relief. “Are you okay?”

“Yes…”

“Sorry for suddenly grabbing you like that…” Teio apologised.

“Don't worry. That conversation was starting to make me anxious.” The other explained.

“Yeah, I saw that…” The short girl said. “Seriously, you'd think us being like that was normal by now.”

McQueen giggled, making Teio look at her in confusion.

“What's so funny?” Teio asked, though she was smiling.

“Nothing.” McQueen said, containing her giggles. “It just made me realise how well we get along.”

“We do, don't we?” Teio said, looking ahead.

The two resumed walking, making their way towards the gates, Teio still in her tracksuit, not having managed to change back into her uniform due to rushing out of the room with McQueen.

“Are you really not going to go back and change?” McQueen asked her.

“Eh…” The other said, shivering slightly. “I don't think I can handle it if they interrogate me again.”

“Are you heading to the dorms, then?” The purple-haired girl asked her.

“Well, I guess…” Teio told her. “I don't really have much to do today. Well… I don't really have much to do during the weekend.”

McQueen's ears perked up and she felt her heart rate spike. ‘She is free during the weekend. Should I ask her?’ She stared at Teio who was now looking at her curiously.

“What's wrong?” The shorter girl asked.

“Oh…” McQueen said.

She scolded herself, taking a deep breath as she felt her cheeks warming up. ‘Come on, McQueen, you can do this!’

McQueen looked back at Teio with a serious look on her face, while the other simply gazed at her.

“Teio… Would you like to spend the weekend with me?” She mustered. “Only if you want to… I don't want to force you to…”

Before she managed to finish her sentence, she felt Teio hugging her, throwing her off balance, and she flailed her arms trying to regain it.

“Teio!” She shouted.

“Sorry.” Teio said, detaching herself from McQueen. “I thought you wouldn't invite me again. It's been a while since you first suggested it.”

“Well… I have been a bit distracted as of late.” McQueen explained. “There's a lot going in my mind at the moment.”

“Yeah, I noticed that.” Teio told her, her ears dropping. “You've been acting off since Valentine's.” She paused, as she appeared to look smaller. “You even lashed out at me once… It wasn't something I did, was it?”

McQueen was filled with guilt. Her confusion between her unusual thoughts behind Teio had been unsettling her deeply, but the thought of hurting Teio made her chest burn, and the memory of her previous outburst still made her cringe.

“No, Teio, of course not!” She tried to reassure. “I… I'm just grappling with something unusual. But I promise I'm not mad at you! I'm just confused.”

Teio looked curiously at McQueen, her eyebrows raising slightly.

“What do you mean?” She asked McQueen. “Is it related to running? Is it something in your family?”

“No… It's more personal…” McQueen explained. “But I'll snap out of it soon. All I ask is that you trust me.”

Teio looked unsure about how to react. Her gaze stayed with McQueen, and the latter could tell she wasn't pleased with the answer. After a few seconds of silence, she let out a sigh.

“It's a bit hard when I don't know what's going on…” the shorter girl said. “But I trust you.”

McQueen allowed herself to smile slightly. 

“Thank you, Teio.”

Teio reciprocated the smile as the two kept walking, the gates getting closer as they moved.

“Are you sure it's okay to invite me so suddenly?” Teio asked. “Won't you get into trouble?”

“It's not like I haven't done that before.” McQueen explained. “Besides, the staff is already used to your presence there and my grandmother doesn't seem to mind.”

“Oh…” The other said. “That helps…”

The two finally reached the gate where McQueen's butler was already waiting, as usual.

“Hello, mister butler!” Teio greeted him cheerfully.

“Good evening, miss Teio!” He greeted her, turning to McQueen. “Shall we go, miss?”

“Yes.” McQueen replied. “I know this is sudden, and I apologise for not telling you in advance, but I would like to invite Teio over the weekend.”

“Not a problem, miss.” The butler replied. “We can arrange for your friend’s stay quickly. I am sure your grandmother will not have an issue with it, either.”

“Thank you!” McQueen said.

The butler opened the back door of the car, holding it open for McQueen and Teio to enter.

“Come on, Teio!” McQueen urged, grabbing her friend by her hand.

“Woah!” The other exclaimed feeling the sudden pull.

McQueen giggled as she entered the car, pulling Trio along with her, settling onto the opposite corner with Teio sitting right against her. She put her seat belt, Teio following suit. The butler settled onto the driver’s seat, starting the car, who roared to life.

“Wait!” Teio suddenly exclaimed. “I need spare clothes!”

McQueen’s eyes went wide, looking at Teio, realising she gave her little time to prepare, as they immediately walked to the gates.

“I do not mind waiting, miss Teio.” The butler said from the front. “Take as much as you need.”

“I'm at fault too…” McQueen said while blushing. “I got too excited.”

“Heh…” Teio said with a grin. “Did you want to hang out with me that much?”

“Just… Go get your clothes…” McQueen said, looking out the window to hide her embarrassment from her friend.

“Hehe… I'll try to be quick.” Teio said, removing her seatbelt and leaving the car, running at a lower speed towards the dorms.

‘That girl…’ McQueen thought fondly as she watched Teio going towards the Ritto dorm building. ‘Well, that only makes her more endearing.’

She kept gazing, watching as some students left the gates of the academy, crossing the road to the dorms, many relieved that it was finally the weekend. Suddenly a small bump was heard from behind, which startled her out of her daze. Then a small shriek. McQueen opened the window to watch as her butler went out of the car to inspect. She noticed two girls, one wearing a wrestler's mask who was looking pale, as her friend looked ominously at her.

“See… This is why I told you to not try your new move here…” The other girl said.

“Is everything alright?” The butler asked.

“I apologise for my friend.” The girl said. “She got a bit excited trying to show me something. Fortunately there was no damage.”

McQueen watched the exchange as she tried to recognise the two girls. Her mind quickly connected the dots. ‘Isn't that…?’

“I'm just glad no one was hurt.” The butler told the two girls. “Please watch yourselves.”

“We will. Our apologies.” The girl, who had chestnut hair and a small white spot said to the butler, taking a bow. As she straightened herself, she glanced towards where McQueen was watching. “Oh?”

The girl, who McQueen now recognised as one of Special Week’s classmates, Grass Wonder, approached the window with a troubled expression.

“Good evening, McQueen.” She greeted. “I apologise for El’s behaviour. She is… A bit too energetic sometimes.

“You don't need to worry. It's all water under the bridge, now.” McQueen told her with a smile.

Grass Wonder reciprocated the smile, taking a glance at her friend, El Condor Pass, before looking back at McQueen.

“Spe told me you have been recovering well. Is your leg recovered, already?”

“Well...” McQueen started. “I can jog slightly and I have a good amount of strength back, but I’m not ready to race yet. I don't think I'll be ready to race until after the Summer at least. We'll have to wait and see.”

“I understand the feeling very well. I had an injury of my own.” The chestnut-haired girl reminisced. “I hope you recover quickly.”

“Thank you! That means a lot”

“If you don’t mind me changing the subject…” Grass Wonder said. “Your friend, Teio is running in the Takarazuka Kinen, isn’t she?”

McQueen suddenly felt a shiver down her spine. Though Grass Wonder kept smiling and her posture didn’t change, the abrupt interest in Teio upset her.

“Yes…” McQueen told her. “But she'll be racing the Osaka Hai first."

“I see…” the other said. “Then let's hope she’ll do well in that race. I’m hoping she’ll give me a challenge we eventually run against each other.”

McQueen looked at Grass Wonder. Despite her polite and friendly demeanour, she could feel her competitive sprit deeply.

“Tell that to her for me, please. Have a nice weekend!” The girl told her with a wave before beginning her walk to the dorms. Her friend, who had been watching the exchange following her.

‘What was that?...’ She thought, feeling as if the air around her had gotten colder.

As the butler had made its way back onto the driver’s seat, she finally spotted her friend returning, now with her uniform instead of her tracksuit. She spotted Grass Wonder lingering her gaze on Teio, but the latter didn’t seem to notice. Teio walked around the car, entering it and settling next to McQueen.

“Sorry if I took a while.” She said, putting her seatbelt.

“Don't worry.” McQueen reassured her. “You were quick.”

“Shall we go, then?” The butler asked from the front.

“Yup!” Teio beamed. “We're ready!”

The butler readied the car and began gently accelerating.

“By the way…” Teio began. “Was that Grass Wonder speaking to you earlier?”

“You noticed…” McQueen said. “She is… Looking forward to race you in the Takarazuka Kinen.” She said, sombrely.

“Why did you say that in such an ominous way?” The other asked.

“Teio... She isn't going to be easy to beat. She looks very determined to beat you. Even I was shaken by her competitive drive.”

“Hmmm… I think I remember Spe saying something like that about her. I think even El Condor Pasa can get scared of her.” Teio reminisced, placing two fingers on her chin.

“I'm not trying to make you worried.” McQueen told her. “Just don't let your guard down.”

“Don't worry, I won't.” Teio said, looking forward with determination. “Besides…” She said, her face softening as she looked at McQueen. “I still have the Osaka Hai first. But first, we’re enjoying our weekend together!”

McQueen smiled at Teio, who smiled back. “You're right. We shouldn't worry too much about it for now. We have a weekend to look forward to.”

“Speaking of weekends…” Teio began, her lips forming a cheeky grin. “I believe you haven't been feeling lonely at all.”

McQueen raised an eyebrow at her friend in confusion.

“What do you mean?” She asked as the car stopped at a red light.

“Well, you said the plushie I gave you was keeping you company.” Teio explained. “You haven't been doing weird stuff with it, have you?”

McQueen's ears shot up as her face heated up uncomfortably. The most she had done was hug the plushie, but she would die of embarrassment it Teio found out about it.

“O-of course not!” She shrieked. “Why would you expect that?”

“Hmmm…” Teio said, holding her chin between two fingers. “You said my plushie was really cute. I wonder if maybe it's so cute that you just can't help it…”

“Teio!” McQueen said loudly, much to Teio's delight. “You… You don't think I'd do something so… Ugh…”

Running out of a comeback, McQueen crossed her arms and looked away in mild annoyance, trying to hide her embarrassment, her tail swishing on the seat, making noise with each hit, as the cat resumed its movement.

“Nishishi, you look cute when you blush!” Teio teased.

McQueen felt her face warming up even more, as she reached levels of embarrassment she had never experienced. ‘Is this revenge from my teasing?’ To her side, Teio was looking triumphantly at her, her grin looking as if it couldn't get any wider. ‘But… this side of her is nice too…’

“Hmmm? What are you thinking about?” Teio said with a snicker.

“N-nothing!” McQueen mustered. “Don't get any weird ideas.”

“Hehehe… This is payback for your teasing. I could get used to this.”

“Oh, you've done it now, Teio!” McQueen challenged, as she allowed herself to smirk despite her embarrassment.

“Oho? Is Queenie getting embarrassed?” Teio teased.

McQueen grumbled, failing to get back at Teio once again, looking towards the window instead. The two stayed in silence.

“Uh… McQueen?” She heard Teio call meekly.

She glanced towards the side and she saw Teio looking slightly worried. Before she even noticed, she was laughing.

“You're laughing out of nowhere again?” Teio asked in confusion.

McQueen tried to contain her laughter, looking at Teio. “I'm sorry, Teio… The way you were looking at me…”

“You really are acting off lately…” the shorter girl told her.

“Maybe…” McQueen muttered, blushing lightly.

McQueen felt the car slowly begin to stop. She looked through the windscreen, seeing that they were at the gate the Mejiro Estate.

“Oh!” Teio chirped. “We're here!”

“I don't live that far from Tracen, you know?” McQueen commented.

“I know.” The other replied. “But it felt quicker because I was talking to you.”

“Is that so?” McQueen asked, mostly to herself, smiling gently.

The car passed the gate, eventually making its final stop close to the doors of the Mejiro Estate. The butler parked the car, turned off engine and pulled the handbrake. At he left the vehicle, he proceeded to open the door to the side where McQueen was sitting. She and Teio took off their seatbelts and slowly got off the car, the door being closed behind them. They followed the butler who opened the main door for them, closing it after they entered.

“I shall ask the staff to prepare one of the guest rooms for miss Teio.” The butler told McQueen.

“Thank you!” She thanked him. “I would like to use the shower briefly.” McQueen then turned to Teio. “Would you like to take one as well? You can wait your turn in my room.”

“Yeah… I'm all sweaty, now that you mention it…” Teio replied.

“I shall also arrange for the bath to be ready as well.” The butler told them. “If you excuse me.

The butler took a bow and excused himself to do his tasks.

“Come.” McQueen told Teio.

McQueen been walking towards her bedroom, Teio walking right next to her. She was used to waking besides Teio, but she couldn't help, but think that Teio was a bit closer than usual. Usually she wouldn't even notice the closeness, but at that moment, she felt that she was basically rubbing her shoulder against Teio's.

“You know…” She heard Teio say. “I know I have been here before, but I have never been to your room.”

“That's true.” She agreed.

“Aren't you embarrassed?” Teio asked.

“Why should I?” McQueen asked. “It's just my bedroom.”

“Well, you see…” Teio tried, her face going red. “Never mind… Maybe I've been reading too many of Mayano's romance Manga.”

“My, Teio, don't tell me your heart is racing because I invited you to my room.” McQueen teased. Tough she was smirking gently, she could feel her own heart thrumming in her chest. “I wonder what is going on in that mind of yours.”

Teio managed to trip on her own, eliciting a giggle from her friend, only fuelling her embarrassment. McQueen noticed how her face went completely red while she grumbled.

“My, Teio, I only jest. There's no need to get so shy.”

Teio stared at McQueen, her mouth forming a distorted line as she pressed her jaws together, all while McQueen simply looked at her on amusement.

“Okay… You win…” The shorter girl said, looking forward and pouting.

“That was easy.” McQueen added.

The two resumed walking and Teio remained uncharacteristically quiet. McQueen would steal a glance at her, and Teio always seemed to notice, but would always advert her gaze, blushing every time. ‘I might become addicted to this.’ McQueen thought.

The duo finally reached McQueen's room, Teio entering after McQueen, who closed the door.

“It feels…” Teio began. “Very you.”

“What does that mean?” McQueen asked, intrigued.

“It's clean, it's tidy, it's organised…”

“Well, I do try to keep it presentable at all times. The house staff also takes care of it.” She explained.

“I know… But compared to mine, it feels more lady-like, more refined… Like you!” Teio told her, smiling.

“Thank you.”

“Oh!” Teio exclaimed as she looked towards the bed. “It's me!”

McQueen watched as Teio walked towards the bed, picking up the plushie that was set on her bed. The girl returned, carrying it on her hands, facing McQueen.

“Look!” Teio urged. “Aren't I just adorable?”

McQueen smiled softly ‘Yes, very.’ She thought fondly, though she did not say it out loud.

“Hmmm?” She heard Teio mutter with a smile of her own. “What made you so happy?”

“Nothing…” McQueen told her. “Actually… You made me happy.”

The shorter girl gasped softly, lowering the plushie. Before she could reply, a knock on the door was heard.

“Come in!” McQueen said.

From the door, emerged the butler.

“Your bath is ready, miss, as well as fresh clothing. Your friend may go, as well, after you finish.”

“Thank you!” McQueen said.

She watched as the butler closed the door, leaving the two girls alone, once again.

“I guess I'm off to the bath. I'll try to be quick.” McQueen told Teio.

“Mmm… Alright!” The other said.

McQueen turned, waking towards the door. She took a last glance at Teio, flashing her a smile, before she opened the door and left the room. Now alone, she realised that her heart was beating faster than usual and that body she felt warm. Her interaction with Teio was still fresh, and her mind refused to let it go. She suddenly felt a longing and emptiness as she had to cut their playful banter short, despite knowing they had the whole weekend to do it. As her thoughts revolved around Teio, she felt that she was on the verge of finally getting the answer to her question.

‘Teio… She's very special to me…’

Chapter Text

After waiting in her friend's room, Teio was now getting ready to take a bath. McQueen had invited her to spend the weekend at the Mejiro Estate, something she eagerly accepted. McQueen took a bath before her, and now it was Teio's turn. She had waited patiently in McQueen's room, waiting her friend to finish so she could remove the sweat from training. She entered the bath, placing a fresh pile of clothes ready so she could wear afterwards. She set her uniform onto a nearby basket, finding another similar one already there. McQueen had told her that the staff would wash her clothes so she didn't have to worry. Now ready, Teio entered the bath and begin cleaning herself.

Usually, she would allow herself to relax, but her mind was drifting. The past few weeks McQueen had been acting in a way that Teio could only explain as “weird”. Sometimes, McQueen would act the same as usual, but sometimes she would put distance between them. While McQueen told her that nothing bad happened, Teio still found it unusual. It had been a random mix of occurrences until that day. McQueen seemed to be slowly snapping out of whatever she was going through, but that didn't mean that Teio thought it was going back to normal. While her friend seemed to not randomly avoid her any more, she appeared to suddenly tease Teio much more often, and be endeared by Teio more easily.

‘So, first she starts acting weird, sometimes ignores me and when she starts going back to normal, she starts teasing me whenever there’s a chance…’

Teio grumbled as she washed herself, deadpanning as if the wall ahead of her had insulted her.

‘I know McQueen likes to tease me, but she is starting to do it too often. And what is it with her always calling me cute? I mean… I know I'm cute, but isn't she paying a lot of attention to it?’

She finished her bath and took a towel that was readied for her and began drying herself.

‘It's not that I mind being like this with McQueen… But isn't she having too much fun?’

Teio slipped into her clothes and began making her way towards her friend's room.

‘Well, it doesn't matter.’ She thought as she smiled. ‘We have the whole weekend to have fun! Maybe I can show her that new game I found!’

She reached McQueen's room and knocked on the door.

“Come in!” She heard from the other side.

She gently opened the door, making her way into the room. She spotted McQueen sat on her bed, her lips breaking into a smile upon Teio’s arrival.

“Hey! I'm here!” Teio announced. “I hope you weren't too lonely waiting for me.”

“Waiting for you?” McQueen asked, grabbing the plushie next to her. “But you were here with me the whole time!”

“Very funny.” Teio said while smiling.

McQueen placed the plushie next to her pillow, patting the bed on the opposite side. Teio walked over to her, sitting next to McQueen. She felt her shoulder bump gently onto McQueen's as she sat down.

“So…’ She began. ‘What do you want to do?”

“We still have time before dinner. I don't mind just speaking to you.” McQueen suggested.

“That's nice too… Maybe we could play a game?” Teio asked her.

“I don’t usually play many games…” The other told her. “I usually read or relax while enjoying a cup of tea.”

"You really are lady-like…” Teio commented, smiling gently.

“Well… I do have a more spirited side…”

“Oh, I know that!” Teio perked up. “You always get excited when you see something sweet.

“Not that one…” McQueen corrected while blushing slightly. “Do you only see me as someone weak to sweets?”

“Hehe… No, but whenever I see desserts, it reminds me of you.” The shorter girl said.

“Really?” McQueen said, twirling a few strands of her hair while looking away.

Teio’s gaze intensified onto McQueen. ‘There! She’s acting all shy! Usually she would get embarrassed and try to correct me!’

“Is there something on my face?” McQueen asked meekly.

“Oh!” Teio quickly muttered, noticing that she was staring. “No, there isn't.”


"As I was saying…” McQueen started. “When I talk about my spirit side, I'm referring to my interest for Baseball.”

“Baseball? That’s cool!” Teio said. “I don’t really have a lot of interest in it, but it's cool that you like it.”

“Really?” The purple-haired girl asked. “Doesn't it shatter your vision of me?”

“Of course not, silly!” Teio reassured. “Actually, I’m happy that you feel comfortable sharing it with me.”

“I see…”

McQueen looked away, blushing and smiling as here tail began to shake. ‘This side of her is cute.’ Teio thought. ‘But why is she so worried about it? Maybe I'm not refined enough to understand. Man, McQueen is so cool!’

She allowed McQueen to return to normal, the latter finally facing her again. Teio noticed how please McQueen appeared to be.

“So, do you go to watch Baseball macthes?” Teio asked her.

“Sometimes.” McQueen told her. “Despite how I usually act, I am quite… Vocal with my support.”

“Oh, I'd love to see it!”

“Maybe one day.” The purple-haired girl told her. “You’ll have to wait until then.”

“Hehe… I can wait.” The shorter girl said.

They sat in brief silence before a thought crossed Teio’s mind.

“I thought that Golshi was just teasing you… But were you like that when I raced the Kyoto Kinen?” She asked her friend.

McQueen gasped softly at her question, grabbing one of her hands with the other one, rubbing circles on its back while looking down. “Only a bit…” She said, before suddenly looking back at Teio. “But it's not because I didn't like to watch you race! I just… It's different when it comes to you…”

“Hmmm?” Teio muttered in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“You can call it respect among rivals, or maybe we're just very close…” McQueen began. “But I feel a strange pride, as well as a strong desire to run alongside you. When I see you run, I just want to be able to run next to you and see your running up close. I think, if it's against you, I could run forever.”

Teio's eyes widened at what she heard. She knew McQueen respected her deeply, but Teio never expected that McQueen would say something so heartfelt about their rivalry. Teio couldn't help, but feel grateful that McQueen put her in such high regard. She stared blankly at McQueen, whose face was turning redder and redder, her tail being all over the bed. Finally, the purple-haired girl covered her face in embarrassment.

“Look at what you're making me say!” The other said, her words muffled by her hands.

Teio smiled at the sight. ‘I think I like this side of McQueen.’

Slowly McQueen peeked through her hands, eventually placing them on her lap. Her face was still red, but she seemed to be less agitated.

“Well…” She said, crossing her arms. “Go ahead, you can brag about me praising you. You earned it.”

Teio did not show any desire of doing that, however. Instead, she launched herself at McQueen. She snaked her arms around her torso and put her weight onto McQueen, accidentally making her fall backwards onto the bed.

“Teio! Calm down!” McQueen plead. “Seriously, you need to control your urge to surprise me with hugs!”



“Hehe… Sorry…” She managed. “You know…”

Suddenly, a knock was heard on the door. The two girl's faces went red and they both sat straight on the bed. The two allowed themselves to calm down, letting their breathing settle.

“Come in!” McQueen said, although a bit higher than usual.

The door opened and a man in a white coat entered the room.

“I'm the doctor.”

“Eek!” Teio shrieked.

McQueen giggled next to her. “Teio, he's not here for you.”

“How is your leg feeling, miss?” The doctor asked in his usual professional tone.

“I don't feel any differences.” McQueen told him. “While I have been holding back, I feel like I can still push myself further without issue.”

The doctor moved his hand towards his chin, appearing to be deep in thought. Teio looked at McQueen who was looking in his direction, waiting patiently for more details.

“Tomorrow we can proceed with the light training in the morning. I'd like to do a more thorough analysis afterwards and make an assessment by then.” The doctor explained. “I won't bother you further for today. If you excuse me.”

With a small bow, the doctor left the room, closing the door upon exit. McQueen looked back at Teio, smiling softly.

“I don't think he's too worried.” She told Teio.

“How do you know?” The shorter girl asked.

“Usually he'd check for pain in my leg and ask more questions, but lately he isn't doing as many check ups.” McQueen explained. “I believe it means he thinks that I'm recovering well.”

“Yeah, that makes sense.”

“You know…” McQueen started. “Sometimes I still doubt myself a little.” She told. “But I'm doing much better than before. It's all thanks to you. You showed me that it's possible. I just need to be a bit more patient.”

“McQueen…” Teio muttered, her ears dropping slightly.

“Now, don't be sad.” The other asked, while smiling softly. “I'm doing great and my leg is recovering steadily, even when others thought it wouldn't. We'll be able to race together soon, you'll see.”

Teio didn't move. Her gaze stayed on McQueen. She felt the corner of her eyes growing damp as she let out a shuddering breath she didn't even know she was holding.

“Teio?” McQueen asked. “What’s wrong?”

Teio brought a finger to her eyes, wiping the tears that were begging to form. She allowed herself to flash a small smile at McQueen as she tried to control her shaky breath.

“Nothing…” She said. “It's just… I'm just glad you're doing okay… I know that you look happy most of the time, but I still worry that you're hiding it from us…”



“I can't blame you for that…” Her friend said sombrely. “Sometimes my pride prevents me to show any weaknesses. Even if that means having to bear it all alone…”

“But you know you can trust me, right?” Teio interrupted, a new set of tears begging to form. “I told you already, it doesn't matter what it is, I'll be here to help you!”



“I know…” McQueen said, her own breathing starting to shake. “And thank you.”

The two stayed in silence, simply being present in the moment. Teio managed to ease herself, as she laid backwards onto McQueen’s bed.

“What a way to start the weekend, huh?” She asked McQueen in a sarcastic tone.

"We barely started. We can still enjoy ourselves.”

“You’re right.” Teio said as she got back up again. “We can still do a lot of stuff. We can play games, we can watch a movie… Maybe we can even talk until it's late at night!” She said enthusiastically.

“Aren't you getting a little too excited?” The purple-haired girl asked.

“Are you serious?” The shorter girl exclaimed. “It's the first time I'm having a sleepover with you! Of course I'm excited!”

McQueen giggled as she looked at Teio. “You're cute.”

Teio felt her face warm up quickly. “Why are you suddenly saying that?”

“I don't know.” McQueen said while turning away, her own face tinged in red. “I felt like it.”

Teio stared dumbfounded while her embarrassment refused to go away. ‘What's up with her? She keeps calling me cute for no reason!’

“Anyway…” McQueen continued, clearing her throat. “Do you want to see the book that I'm reading?”

Teio was brought back from her inner rambles by McQueen. “Oh… yeah! What is it about?”

McQueen leaned slightly to the other side of the bed, grabbing a book that was resting on her bedside table. The book was thick, and amidst the later pages Teio could see a bookmark. ‘She already read all that? That book is huge!’

“I've been reading this to stay busy while resting.” The other explained, showing the book to Teio. “I've tried to read it slowly, so I wouldn't finish it too soon, but…” She said, chuckling lightly. “As you can see, despite my efforts to delay it, I'm almost at the end.”

“Hmmm…” Teio mused, looking at cover. “What is it about?”

“It's about two girls, from older times, one from the countryside and another from a rich family.” McQueen began telling. “They become friends and they have to navigate the social pressure about their friendship. It's an interesting read.”

“Hmmm… That sounds like something you'd read.” Teio noted.

“Does it give you that impression?” McQueen asked.

“Yeah! You're always refined and composed.” Teio told her. “It makes sense you'd read stuff like this. I mostly only read Manga…” She said, scratching her head.



“I don't see anything wrong with it. People have different interests.” The purple-haired girl said. “With that said, if you ever want me to recommend you something more… Complex, I'd be happy to do it for you.”

“I’ll think about it.”

The two sat on McQueen's bed, unsure of what to do. Teio fidgeted slightly, thinking about anything that both could do. ‘She invited me so suddenly, I didn't even think about what we should do. What now?’

“Teio?”

“Oh… Yes?” Teio replied.

“Do you want to play chess?”

Teio's ears perked up. She wasn't a the biggest fan of chess, but she would occasionally play it, so she had some understanding of it. ‘Hehehe… I can show her the tactic I used against Air Groove!’



“Oho!” Teio chimed. “Are you challenging the Monarch for a chess match? I'm not going to go easy on you.”



“Be careful, oh great Monarch.” McQueen warned. “My skills aren't only limited to the turf. I would be careful, if I were you.”



“Fufufu… I accept your challenge then.”

“Let me get the chess board, then.” McQueen told her, getting up, moving towards a small cabinet in her room. “Would it be okay if we play on my bed?”

“Yeah, sure!” The short girl agreed. “Beds are comfy for these things.”

Teio heard McQueen giggle slightly as she opened the cabinet, searching for the chess board. ‘Her giggles are cute!’ She thought to herself. As that thought crossed her mind, her ears suddenly twitched. ‘Wait, what did I really just thought about that?’ She felt her face warm up suddenly as her mind short-circuited briefly. ‘I know she's pretty, but why is my mind going there? Calm down me!’



“Here it is!” McQueen told her as she sat on the bed, placing the board carefully onto the bed. She looked at Teio, and as she did so, her eyebrows raised in confusion. “Teio, are you okay? Your face is all red.”

“O-oh!” Teio stammered, her voice rising in pitch. “Yeah… I just remembered something embarrassing I did once!”

“Oh… I see.”

Teio looked at the board, but suddenly grew confused at it’s appearance. “Why do you only have half of the board?”

“Oh, Teio…” McQueen said, shaking her head, though she was still smiling. “The board folds. The pieces are stored inside.”

“Oh!” Teio said as if it was the coolest thing she had ever seen. “That makes it very easy to carry!”



“That's the idea.” The other explained.

The board she was holding was made out of wood. On one of the side was a metal hook, which she released. She carefully unfolded the board, revealing the pieces stored inside in a small wooden container. She slowly removed it, placing it on the side and she turned the board, putting it between her and Teio, making sure she was settling it correctly.

“Would you like to play white, or black?” She asked Teio.

“Hmmm… I'll let you choose.” Teio told McQueen, unsure of which side to choose.

“No, I insist you choose, Teio.” McQueen urged. “I was the one that invited you over.” She said with a wide smile.

“Hmmm…” Teio mustered while deep in thought, looking at the pieces. “Maybe… I'll go with black.” She finally decided after a few seconds.

“Oh?” McQueen said, her eyes arching. “I thought you wanted to always be the first when it comes to our rivalry.” She teased.

Teio grumbled as McQueen looked triophantly at her. “This isn't a race, we're playing chess!”

McQueen put her knuckle in front of her hand, stifling a giggle. “I only jest. I was actually hoping you'd play whites. I will have to change my strategy.”

Teio flashed a smirk at McQueen, who stared back at her. “Hehehe… You can admit that you're scared you'll lose against me, you know?”

“W-what gave you that idea?” The other asked as her face flushed. “Just because I was caught off guard, it doesn't mean I can't adapt!”



“Yeah, yeah, whatever” Teio said, waving her hand from side to side. “Just put your pieces on the board.”

“You…” McQueen grumbled, her lips barely opening to speak.

Teio began placing her pieces on the board, ignoring her friend that was attempting to find a comeback, but failing to do so. ‘Hehe…I like it when she gets flustered like this. I wonder why?’ She looked at McQueen's side of the board and observed how her friend readied her pieces. Teio would pick the nearest piece and place it onto the correct spot on the board, while McQueen would actively look for the pieces, starting with the Rooks and filling the board from the edges to the center. ‘She's organised even with placing her pieces…’ McQueen looked up, noticing that Teio was gazing at her.

“Did something catch your attention?” She asked.

Teio blinked before realising that her friend was talking to her. “Oh… Not really…”

“Hmmm… I hope you're not getting distracted. Or maybe… Are you actually nervous?” The other teased.

“Hmph! As if!” Teio retorted.

“Really?” The other asked. “Then I suppose you switching up your Queen and King was intentional.”

Teio's eyes widened as she glanced down at the board. She looked at her pieces, leaning forward to inspect her side of the board, but found that she had actually did it correctly.

“Huh… but they’re…”

She was quickly interrupted as she heard McQueen giggle again. “Oh, Teio… You did it correctly. I was just teasing you!” McQueen said, giggling once again.

Teio grumbled again, feeling the warmth of her embarrassment on her face. ‘I have a feeling that she'll tease me the whole weekend.’

“Anyway…” She urged, trying to regain her composure. “Let's play.”

“Before that…” McQueen quickly added. “I'd like to propose something.”

“Oh?” Teio chimed in, her interest peaking. “What is it? Go on, tell me!” She said, hopping slightly where she sat.

“The loser has to do something the winner asks them to do. With certain limits, of course.” The other explained.

“Oho!” Teio said enthusiastically. “Then you'd better win because I have a lot of things I'd like to see you doing.”

“Then win against me.” McQueen challenged. “Win, and you'll get to choose what I do.”

Teio snickered, flashing a cheeky grin at McQueen, who was looking satisfied at Teio's reaction. “I'll wipe off that grin of your face. Just watch!”



————————————————————————

It was dinner time, and Teio and McQueen had been called to dinner. She and her friend sat at the table, the remaining members of the Mejiro family also present. McQueen was sat next to her and in front of them was Ryan and Dober, two fellow students at Tracen that McQueen often spent time with, who were looking in surprise at her. Teio's face was red, and the heat on her face was so unbearable she felt she might combust. Her friend next to her, however was visibility pleased.

Teio had lost the chess match. She had played carefully, making sure her pieces were well positioned and playing aggressively, trying to push McQueen into a corner. What she hadn't known, however, was that McQueen had been patiently setting a trap the whole time, and when she finally turned the tables on Teio, she had nothing she could do to have a chance at winning. McQueen won flawlessly, and as agreed, Teio had to do something McQueen asked her too.

And so, as she now sat at the dinner table with McQueen's family present, Teio was borrowing one of McQueen's casual dresses. It wasn't anything too extravagant, in fact, it was perfectly suitable for the occasion, but Teio would've preferred her top and shorts a thousand times over dressing something more formal. She even conceded that it was pretty, but she felt it wasn't her style at all, but she had lost to McQueen, so she had to dress it. Her challenge didn't stop there however. McQueen had also instructed her to act more refined throughout dinner, something that was totally out of Teio's skillset.

“She looks pretty, doesn't she?” McQueen asked the other two, who only managed a nod.

‘Why did I agree to this?’ Teio grumbled internally. ‘I'm so embarrassed I could die!’

“I never expected you to lend you clothes.” Dober told McQueen. “But I think white looks good on her!” She said, still looking in astonishment at Teio.

“But why is she wearing one of your dresses?” Ryan asked.

“I think she can explain you better than I can.” McQueen said, turning to Teio. “Won't you tell them what led you to this situation, Teio?”

The shorter girl looked at McQueen. Though she was smiling innocently, Teio could tell she was thoroughly enjoying Teio squirm. Usually, she would retort back, but McQueen made sure it wouldn't happen by having Teio accept in acting in a more refined way.

Teio looked at the other two girls, her face still red, struggling to find a way to explain what happened in a way of speaking that she wasn't used to.

“McQueen… challenged me to a chess match.” She began telling. “We agreed that the loser would… partake… in a challenge set by the winner. Regrettably….” Teio cringed at her choice of words, finding it extremely unusual and tiring. “I lost, so… upon our agreement, I am now wearing one of McQueen's dresses… I also have to show better manners until dinner ends.”

The other two stared in disbelief, looking between Teio and McQueen, the latter nodding in approval of Teio's explanation. Teio squirmed in her sit, hoping her nightmare would end quickly. ‘Speaking like this is so weird! We haven't even started eating! How does McQueen do this all the time?’

Teio heard a small chuckle coming from McQueen, thought it seemed that she was the only one to hear it. “She's unexpectedly charming like this, isn't she?” McQueen asked Ryan and Dober, who were still processing the whole situation.

“Oh… I think so.” Ryan mustered.

“It is…” Dober began. “Different…”

Teio hid her face in her hands, refusing to look at the girls, but mostly refusing to look at McQueen enjoying her predicament. ‘Agh! This is so embarrassing!’

Then, she heard a sound, making her ears perk up. She slowly lowered her hands from her face to look at its origin. She noticed the staff bringing the food to the table, which distracted her from her dare with McQueen.

“Oh, food is here!” She chimed in.

“Teio, did you say something?” McQueen interrupted, smiling deviously.

Teio felt her face warm up again, noticing her slip up. ‘If that's how you want to do it, then…’

Teio brought her knuckle up to her mouth. “Ahem… It appears that food has arrived.” She said, mimicking McQueen's voice tone.”

“Hehe…” Ryan giggled. “She sounded just like you, McQueen!”

“I… I don't sound like that!” The purple-haired girl said, her voice raising in pitch.

Teio smirked at the sight. ‘Hehehe… Take that!’

“It sounded pretty close.” Dober joined in. “I think it's to be expected when she spends so much time with you. You two get along well.”

“That's…” McQueen managed. “Ahem… Well, I suppose I should be flattered that Teio knows me so well.”

Teio felt her shoulders drop, noticing how tense she was. She finally allowed herself to relax, looking at McQueen, who was now blushing slightly from embarrassment. ‘Maybe this isn't that bad, after all. Maybe just a bit…’

The food was finally served onto the table. Teio was now looking at what she thought was the finest steak she had ever seen. She expected the food to look many times better than what she was used to, but seeing it in person still managed to surprise her. ‘Does McQueen eat like this often? Man, she's so lucky!’

Her eyes quickly darted to something else, which made her enter a small panic. While the sight of a knife and fork wasn't unusual to her, the sight of more than one made her confused.

‘Huh? Why is there more than one knife and fork? And why are they different sizes?’

The other Mejiro began slowly picking up their own cutlery, begging to eat their meals. Teio remained the only member, attempting to figure out the difference. She heard a small chuckle to her side, which, as she expected, was McQueen who noticed her fumbling.

“The smaller ones are for dessert.” McQueen told her before looking back at her meal.

Teio looked back at her plate. ‘Oh! That makes sense!’. She picked up the larger pair. She stopped in her tracks, looking at McQueen's plate. She observed carefully how her friend conducted herself. She noticed how McQueen's movements were slow and calculated, almost as if she had to be careful in how she ate, at least in to Teio's opinion. She finally dared to begin eating, carefully stabbing the meat with her fork. She slowly moved the knife onto the top of the steak and began cutting. She looked back at McQueen once more, trying to mimic her movements. ‘She makes it look easy…’ She muttered to herself. Teio kept cutting the meat slowly, observing McQueen taking a piece of her own steak into her mouth. Her friend seemed to notice her gaze, only to chuckle again.

“Teio… I don't think that knife will be able to cut the plate.” She said.

“Eh?” Teio said, looking back at her plate.” Oh!”

Distracted by watching how McQueen conducted herself, Teio had managed to cut the steak and was now scrapping the knife against the bottom of the plate. She awkwadly raised the piece to her mouth and her ears perked up at the flavour. ‘This is so good! Spe would be jealous if I told her!’ Forgetting her earlier mistake, she slowly went back to eating, allowing her nervousness to fade away.

“So, Teio.” She heard Ryan speak. “McQueen told us you'll be racing the Osaka Hai next.”

“Yes.” Teio told her. “I'm going to prove that my run at the Arima Kinen wasn't a one-time miracle. I'm going to run as if I never broke my leg!”

“That's so cool!” Ryan beamed. “Everyone thought that you had no chance to win it, but you did it anyway! Palmer wouldn't shut up about it. One of my seniors even said that she thought she was watching Rudolf racing!”

Teio's ears began twitching uncontrollably and she almost forgot her deal with McQueen. “Really? They really said that?”

“Oh, right, you want to be like her, don't you?” The other girl asked, taking a sip from her drink. “I suppose you're happy to hear that.”

“But it was indeed an amazing race!” Dober joined in. “I even saw McQueen watching it on her phone many times.”

Right next to Teio, she heard someone chocking lightly. Teio looked to the side to find McQueen trying to calm herself down. She grabbed a napkin and wiped her mouth with it. Teio watched in amusement as she noticed that McQueen was blushing.

“Did she now?” Teio asked, which seemed to rile up McQueen even further.

“Let's not talk about that.” McQueen said.

“What’s wrong with it?” Ryan asked in confusion. “There's nothing wrong with watching a race like that over and over again.”

“That's because it's the miracle I created for both of us.” Teio interrupted, as McQueen wiped her mouth with a napkin, making Ryan and Dober look at her. “It was right after McQueen discovered her leg's condition. We promised to run together and…” Teio reminisced, feeling her chest tighten at the memory. “If she needed a miracle to recover, then I had to make on of my own.”

“Wow!” Ryan mustered.

“That almost sounds like a love story I've read” Dober joined in.

“What?” Teio and McQueen shrieked.

The people at the table looked towards the duo, the ears of the both of them dropping in embarrassment. They both cleared their throat, almost comically and resumed eating.

“Anyway.” Teio said after finishing a piece of steak. “That race is important to us, so I understand why she would rewatch it. Right, McQueen?”

Teio looked at McQueen, but was surprised at the sight. McQueen was looking visually upset, but Teio couldn't tell why.

“McQueen?” Teio asked concerned.

“Excuse me, girls.” She told them. “I suddenly need to go to the bathroom. Don't worry, I'm alright.”

“If you need to…” Ryan said.

McQueen slowly raised from her seat, leaving the dining room. Teio's eyes followed her until she left, then turning to Ryan and Dober.

“It must be one of those random urges that come when you least expect them.” Dober pondered.

“Or maybe she was just embarrassed.” Ryan told them.

“She looked a bit concerned, though…” Teio added. “Do you think she's okay?”

“I don't think you need to worry, Teio.” Ryan reassured her. “I've known McQueen for ages. If something was wrong it would be more obvious.”

“If you say so…” Teio said, allowing herself not to worry.

“It's nice that you visited us! You should come more often!” Ryan told her. “If we had know we could've prepared something to do together.”

“Oh, yeah! McQueen only asked me today.” Teio explained. “I think even she didn't expect it.”

“That's…” The other began.

“Unusual…” Dober added.

“She would usually prepare it in advance.” Ryan began explaining. “It's not like McQueen to arrange things so suddenly.”

“Yeah, I thought it was weird too.” Teio said after taking a sip from her drink. “But I was looking forward for her to invite me over so…”

“By the way, Teio…” Dober interrupted. “If you don't mind me asking, how is your relationship with McQueen?”

“Hmmm? What do you mean?”

“McQueen talks a lot about you. I was wondering if…”

“Oh!” Teio interrupted. “We get along very well, but she's my most important rival!” She announced proudly. I might've lost against her once, but that won't happen again. Just want until she is back at full strength and you'll see who's faster.”

“My.” A voice behind her said. “Aren't you getting a bit ahead of yourself?”

Teio almost jumped from her seat, finding McQueen sitting next to her. "That was quick!"

“Oh, are you feeling better?” Ryan asked her.

“Yes.” McQueen told them. “Now where were we? Oh, right! Has Teio told you that she was the one that gave me that plushie? She seemed very proud of it.”

Teio was once again blushing in her seat. ‘McQueen, you meanie!’

————————————————————————

Back in McQueen's room, Teio had just finished changing back to her normal clothes. McQueen was sitting on her bed, watching Teio with a smile.

“I hope you enjoyed it.” Teio told her. “Next time I'll win!”

“I'll be eagerly waiting for our rematch.” McQueen said. “I wonder what I should have you dress next time.”

“Hey! Don't talk as if you already won!” The shorter girl interjected, making McQueen giggle.

“I'm sorry Teio, but you make it too hard not to.”

“Ugh…” Teio said, plopping next to McQueen. “Shut up.”

The two sat in silence, Teio leaning slightly back onto McQueen's bed.

“Are you tired?” McQueen asked. “I don't mind if you want to go to sleep. We still have the whole weekend ahead of us.”

Teio glanced at her friend, smiling softly at her. “Is it alright if we chat for a bit?”

“Of course.” McQueen said, leaning back fully onto her bad, sighing contently. “What do you want to talk about?”

“So… How do you think I did with the challenge?” Teio asked her.

“Well, your etiquette needs work.” The other explained. “But it wasn’t too bad.”

“Pweh… Straight to the point.”

“But you did well…” McQueen added. “I only chose the dress to tease you, but you looked much better than expected.”

“Hehehe…” Teio snickered, feeling mischievous. “Maybe I should start dressing up if you like it that much.”

“I… I didn't enjoy it that much!” The purple-haired girl said.

“Yeah, sure you didn't.” Teio teased. “You were looking at me the whole time!”

“I'm going to kick you out of my room.”

“Heh, try it!”

Teio leaned back fully, now, laying close to McQueen.

“But I have to admit it. It was fun.” Teio told her, begging to feel heavy.

“I had fun too.” The other said.

“Well…” Teio said, stretching lazily and sitting back on McQueen's bed. “I guess I'll go to my room. You don't need to kick me out. Hehe…”

“Already?” McQueen asked.

“Yeah, I didn't sleep a lot last night.” Teio explained, looking at McQueen. ‘Is she disappointed?’

“Maybe that's for the best.” McQueen said, chuckling gently. “I wouldn't want you to be tired when we have a whole weekend for ourselves.”

“Yeah… Me neither.”

Teio got up, McQueen sitting on her bed, watching her. She approached the door, opening it slowly as she looked back at her friend.

“Good night, McQueen.”

“Good night, Teio.”

With one last smile, Teio exited the room, closing the door behind her. She began making her way to the guest room where she would be sleeping, finding it quickly and entering it. She found her belongings already there, the house staff having placed it neatly next to the bed. She put her phone on the bedside table. She was already wearing her casual clothes she always wore in her dorm room, so she carefully slipped into the sheets and stared at the ceiling, quickly beginning to feel drowsy.

‘Man, today was a big day…’

She rolled onto her side, closing her eyes, allowing her body to start settling into sleep.

‘This weekend is going to be fun.’ She thought, as she began feeling sleep taking over her.

Her breathing began to slow down, as one past thought began to form.

‘Being with McQueen is so fun…’

Chapter Text

It was early in the morning on Saturday. McQueen was again on the track of the Mejiro Estate, doing a small jog before her doctor thought she was taking it too far. This time, however, she wasn't alone. Next to her she could hear a pair of footsteps keeping pace with her. McQueen took a side glance to the origin of the footsteps. Right next to her was Teio, running alongside her. She had invited Teio to spend the weekend with her, and luckily for her, Teio had accepted, quite eagerly, McQueen recalled.

McQueen was feeling elated over the thought of Teio spending the weekend. It had barely started and she was already feeling they had fun together during the whole week. Just the night before she won a chess match against Teio, which resulted in Teio having to dress one of her dresses and work on her etiquette during dinner. McQueen made a mental not to never forget it.

She and Teio completed a lap around the track. McQueen looked briefly at her doctor to gauge his reaction. Her doctor kept watching, and McQueen assumed he didn't see any signs for her to stop, so she continued running, going for another lap. Her and Teio's footsteps rang in her mind, giving her a sense of tranquillity. Her mind had been a mess whenever Teio was mentioned, and one thing she recently discovered was that she actually became used to hearing footsteps right next to her, usually because Teio would often run next to her during team practice. At first she didn't pay attention to it at all, but as she began joining her team during warm ups, only to do her recovery exercises alone, she realised how quiet everything sounded when Teio wasn't there with her.

Teio's footsteps weren't the only thing in her mind however. The question that plagued her mind was still in her mind, teasing her, and she felt she was on the verge of answering it. Suzuka had given her a hint and she was almost understanding what she asked, but she still couldn't put her finger on it. That was until dinner last night. It was a small comment, but Dober had accidentally thrown McQueen into a spiral.

“That almost sounds like a love story I've read”

McQueen didn't know why that comment had such an impact on her. To Dober, it was probably a completely innocent thing to say, finding endearing how close McQueen and Teio were, but to McQueen, it almost wrecked her entire world.

‘Me and Teio? In a love story?’ She recalled, her face warming. ‘Do we really look like a couple? Is this because we went together on Valentine's? No, that can't be it, it was too long ago!’

McQueen kept dancing around the idea of her and Teio resembling a couple, the idea only embarrassing even more. ‘We're not a couple, we're just friends! Why do we look like a couple?’

“You're doing it again…” Teio commented next to her.

Her head whipped towards her friend, who was carefully observing.

“You're blushing and have a serious look on your face.” Teio told her. “Are you sure you don't have anything going on?”

“N-no… nothing at all!” McQueen told her.

“You know I'm not going to believe that, right?” The other deadpanned. “What are you even thinking about?” She said, her facing taking a more mischievous expression. “Don't tell me you're happy to have me as a private training partner.”

“I wouldn't get embarrassed over that.” McQueen retorted.

“Really?” Teio pressed. “Spe told me that, when you went back to running, you were very happy whenever someone mentioned us running together.”

“What?” McQueen shrieked. “She noticed that?”

Teio began laughing hysterically, clutching her ribs with one hand, letting the other swing with her running.

“You actually believed it!” She teased. “Spe never told me anything.”

McQueen grumbled in defeat, her blush spreading. She looked away from Teio.

“You're lucky you're cute, or I wouldn't speak with you for the rest of the day.” McQueen said lowly. “Seriously, what you do to me…”

“There you go again… calling me cute for no reason…” Teio said, almost in a whisper. “Seriously, what's wrong with you?”

McQueen looked back at Teio to gauge her reaction. She noticed that Teio was now blushing too, twirling a lock of her hair. She smiled softly.

“And it's not like you could stay the whole day without speaking to me.” Teio managed. “I bet you would be teasing me again in 30 minutes.”

“Goodness, my teasing is the first thing you think about.” McQueen commented. “Don't tell me you actually like it.”

“Shut up!” Teio shouted, making McQueen giggle.

“You should be thankful, only you make me like this.”

“Agh, stop it!” Teio begged. “You sound like that girl that keeps teasing the boy she likes!”

McQueen was surprised again. ‘There it is again!’ She thought. ‘Do I resemble a character from a love story that much? It can't be! It's perfectly normal for friends to tease each other!’

The two kept jogging in their embarrassment in silence, neither of them daring to break it. They finished the lap and McQueen decided that she was done for the day, Teio following suit. The butler approached to hand them a pair of towels and water bottles, but his face quickly changed when he approach them.

“Miss, is everything alright?” He asked.

“Yes.” McQueen replied, her ears perking up. “I am doing well.”

“You look unwell.” He explained. “Did something happen?”

McQueen's tail straightened in shock. ‘Is my face still flushed? Oh, this is mortifying!’

“Oh, no…” She managed. “Me and Teio were just… having a girls' talk.” She explained, clearing her throat afterwards. “You do not need to worry.”

“Oh, I see!” The butler said, seemingly relieved, almost as if he understood perfectly what McQueen meant. “Then I was worrying over nothing.”

McQueen looked towards the doctor who was quiet through the whole ordeal. “Doctor, do you have anything to add?” She said as she felt Teio clutch her arm at the mention of the word “doctor”.

“I believe not.” The doctor told her, looking deep in thought, which McQueen noticed. “While I am not comfortable with allowing you to run as usual, yet, I believe you're recovering at an outstanding rate. If this keeps going the way it's going…” He began, appearing slightly conflicted about what he was about to say. “It might be possible for you to participate in the Autumn Tenno Sho.

McQueen felt the weight of her body almost disappearing. Teio, who was still grabbing her arm was now hopping next to her, clutching her just a bit tighter.

“Doctor, are you certain?” The butler asked, failing to hide his surprise. “Do you truly believe miss can still compete in the Tenno Sho?”

“I understand your concern.” The other man told him. “In fact, I still have my worries. However, we initially believed that she wouldn't be able to race again, much less recover at all. As a doctor, all I can say is that she is truly blessed. I simply cannot explain this the way the miss is recovering.” He explained, turning back to McQueen. “My new proposal is watching how miss feels during the next weeks. If after the Spring Tenno Sho she still doesn't show any problems, then I'll allow her to start training normally, with some minor restrictions. If nothing happens until Autumn, then I will allow her to compete again.”

“McQueen!” Teio's voice suddenly shouted. “Did you hear it? You almost ready to race again!”

“Yes, Teio…” McQueen said with a chuckle. “I heard it.” She said despite herself feeling ecstatic.

“Please keep in mind that this is an optimistic prediction.” The doctor warned. “I still recommend caution. I do think, however, that there are less reasons to be worried than before.

“Thank, you, doctor!” McQueen told him. “I will do my best not to falter now that we're so close.” She then turned to Teio. “It seems you'll have to start working harder, Teio. You might be racing against me soon.”

“Hehehehe…” The other giggled. “I'll be waiting for you. Don't think that, just because it will be your comeback, that I will hold back against you!”

“That's exactly what I expect from you. It's a promise, and this time, I refuse not to fulfil it.”

“Hehe… It's a promise, then!”

After promising a challenge to each other, they began making their way back to the main building. McQueen took note of how the weather seemed warmer. She didn't know if it was because it was nearly Spring, or if it was due to what had just happened, but she appreciated it nonetheless. As usual, Teio was right next to her. McQueen couldn't help but think that Teio was walking slightly closer to her than usual. Her mind drifted back to earlier, though she tried not to. More and more, it was difficult to ignore that, even if she didn't think so, people saw her and Teio in a different light. To her, she and Teio were great friends, and that was it, or at least, that's what she believed. She couldn't understand how their interactions were something to scrutunise, but the more she thought about it, the more she began doubting herself.

When she was alone in her bedroom, she would clutch Teio's plushie tightly, something she wouldn't dare to admit to no one. At least once a day, her mind would remind her of Teio, and she would often feel calm, whenever that happened. When Teio paid attention to her, she would suddenly feel very happy and would always try to get the most out of every second she spent with her. Usually she wouldn't notice this, but it was hard to ignore whenever she felt emptiness in her chest when they had to go separate ways for whatever reason. During practice, even if they didn't talk, she would always feel slightly dejected whenever Teio had to continue her training with their teammates, leaving McQueen alone. She first thought it was simply the thought of not being able to join her friends, but she quickly began noticing the feeling of emptiness related to a lack of Teio's presence even outside of practice, something she couldn't ignore.

McQueen felt as if she was walking in circles. She felt as if the answer was right in her grasp, but couldn't quite reach it. She had replayed her conversation with Suzuka in her mind for days, trying to make at least something make sense. ‘If I don't see her as a friend, then what is she to me? Is there a special kind of friend that I'm not aware of? Is she something similar to family? No, that's not quite right… I don't feel like this with Ryan and Dober. Ugh… This is so frustrating!’

She took a glance at Teio, who was humming happily to herself, unaware of McQueen's struggle. ‘Looking at her like this is kind of… No! Now is not the time!’ McQueen shook her head slightly, thankful that the other didn't notice it. ‘Dober said that… No, let's not go there!’ She mentally scolded, feeling her cheeks grow uncomfortably hot. ‘That's just not possible! Not possible! Not at all! Inconceivable, period!’

McQueen took another glance, making sure that Teio still hadn't notice her. They had reached the building and the butler opened the door for them. They began walking towards her room, they still had plenty of time before lunch.

“Hey, do you want to play chess again?” The other girl asked. “This time I won't lose.”

McQueen registered Teio talking to her, but her mind didn't process the words. She kept walking, unaware that she left Teio speaking to herself.

“Uh… McQueen? Did you hear me?”

McQueen kept walking with Teio by her sight, her mind preoccupied with her complicated feelings. ‘Why is this happening? How do I feel? What is Teio to me? What is this fluttering I feel when I'm with Teio? What kind of friendship do I have with her? Are we some exceptionally close friends? Are we…”



“McQueen!” Teio shouted, suddenly very close. “Can you hear me?”

McQueen recoiled, finally realising that Teio was trying to get her attention, resorting to speaking directly into her ear.

“Finally, you've heard me!” She said, taking a deep sigh. “You are really out of yourself lately. Are you sure you are okay?”

McQueen stared at Teio, her mouth opening and closing like a fish's, her face warming up and her tail waggling.

“Oh… I… I was… Ahem! I'm sorry, I was distracted.” She said, trying to regain control of herself. “That was rude of me. What did you ask?”

“I asked…” Teio said, partly annoyed, partly concerned. “Do you want to play chess again?”

“Oh… Yes, that would be wonderful!” McQueen said. “Let's go!”

Acting upon impulse before realising what she was doing, McQueen was now grabbing Teio by her hand, pulling her in direction of her room.

“H-hey!” Teio managed. “What are you… Woah!”

McQueen's room wasn't far, and the two girls quickly found themselves entering it. McQueen quickly fetched the chess board, which was settled on her desk. She placed it on her bed, sitting in front of it next to her pillow, patting the spot in front of her. Teio stared at her in awe.

“What's wrong?” McQueen asked.

“Uh… I know you're happy to have me here but… I never saw you being so excited like this…” Teio said, still trying to process what just happened. “Don't tell me you have a weird challenge for me if I lose….”

“Not this time.” McQueen told her. “This time I just want to play with you. But, if you want to, I don't mind.” She teased.

“No, I'm good…” Teio cringed. “Oh well, let's just play.”

Teio sat in front of McQueen, this time taking the white pieces. The two began preparing their pieces. McQueen noticed she was acting slightly different, fumbling slightly to grab the pieces and placing them quickly, accidentally letting some of them fall upon their placement. She felt her hand shiver as her mind raced.

‘What just went over me?’

————————————————————————

At lunch time, the Mejiro, along with Teio were sat at the table. Teio was dressing casually this time, though she had undoubtedly caught on to some of McQueen's refinement. The meal wasn't totally uneventful, however. Just earlier she and McQueen played chess again, but McQueen's demeanour was different. She had won again, despite Teio failing to understand how, but Teio thought she was acting too “not-McQueen-ly” as she would call it. She caught McQueen being deep in thought again, this time failing to hear Teio calling for her. Teio had to speak directly into her ear to finally get her attention, and when she finally did, she was quickly being pulled by McQueen into her room, being put into playing chess, despite her being the one who suggested it. While McQueen was undoubtedly focused on the match, Teio notice how McQueen would take longer to make her moves, sometimes not realising that Teio had moved a piece and having to analyse the board to make her own move. Teio knew that whatever happened was affecting McQueen, but she couldn't understand what.

‘This girl… What's wrong with her? It must be that thing she told me about.’

Teio took a glance at McQueen who was eating silently. She didn't look different, at least in Teio's opinion, but she couldn't help but wonder if she was thinking about whatever she mentioned that was troubling. Teio found herself caught watching her as she ate, wishing she could read her mind.

‘McQueen… What is bothering you?’

“Hey, Teio…” She heard a voice, which she recognised as Ryan's. “I know McQueen's pretty, but your food is going to get cold if you keep staring at her.”

“Eh?” Teio bluttered, eliciting a chuckle from the other Mejiro, and a giggle from Dober next to her.

Teio expected McQueen to giggle, or tease her, but she noticed none of this. She resumed eating, but now without stealing a glance at her friend sat next to her. McQueen didn't look too different, but Teio could swear that her face was red.

‘This would be the perfect opportunity to tease me… Why isn't she doing it? She's getting even more unpredictable!’

“By the way, Teio.” Ryan said, getting her attention again. “I know I asked you about it yesterday… The Osaka Hai is almost here. About three weeks, I think. What's your strategy?”

“Don't tell me you'll be racing against me.” Teio teased. “Do you want to have an upper hand against me?”.

“Hahaha! No, I was just curious.” The other explained. “I’ve heard some tough opponents will be racing it too.”

“That makes sense. It's a G1 after all.” Teio agreed, taking a sip of her drink. “Do you know who'll be racing there?”

“If I remember correctly…” Ryan began, looking upwards. “I think Rice Shower is going to be there… I think Nice Nature is going ro race too…”

“Oh! Natie and Rice!” Teio beamed. “Fufufu… I'll have to do my best.”

“That's not all.” Dober joined in. “I think Oguri Cap is going to be there too.”

“Oh yeah!” Ryan interrupted. “How could I forget! She's probably the toughest one you'll have to face!”

“Oguri Cap…” Teio muttered darkly.  “I think I have seen her race… Prez said she's very strong.”

“Strong is an understatement.” Ryan warned her. “I have been a big fan of her. She's a monster!”

“That's the third person I've heard being called that.” Teio muttered. “Prez said that people called Maruzensky that. And Grass Wonder too… I'll have to face her in the Takarazuka Kinen.”

“Yeah… Grass isn't no pushover either…” Ryan agreed. “And she's been racing even better now. Honestly, it's almost scary.”

“You should look out for Seiun Sky, too.” Dober warned. “She said she'll be racing both of those races. She's known to be a bit of a trickster.”

“Oh, I remember her!” Teio chimed in. “She gave Spe a lot of trouble in the classics!”

“You're going against a pretty tough competition.” Dober said. “And there might be more that we don't know yet.”

“I don't think that matters.” McQueen's voice was suddenly heard, getting their attention. “All tatT matters is that Teio races her best and does what she can. She's capable enough to hold her own.” She said proudly, turning to her. “I believe in her.”

Teio smiled softly at her friend. “Yup! That's right! I just have to run like I always do!”

“You're right.” Ryan agreed. “Sometimes all it matters is that you believe in yourself.”

The group fell into silence again, paying attention to their food. Teio stole another glance at McQueen as she ate. ‘She seems to be normal now… But is she really? Ugh… I don't get it!’

She continued eating her food, occasionally glancing at McQueen. The latter didn't give any signs of a change in her mood, further confusing Teio. Her gaze kept lingering longer and longer, until she was essentially staring at McQueen whenever she wasn't looking at her food. She tried to look for anything that would help her understand what McQueen was going through, but she found nothing, and eventually got distracted by McQueen herself. She carried herself much differently than Teio. Her every move appeared almost calculated, even when eating. Teio felt almost as if she was watching a princess. ‘Ryan is right, she is actually very pretty. I never paid attention to that. I guess it makes sense coming from her.’

Lunch eventually came to an end, everyone withdrawing from the table. Teio kept watching McQueen, almost like a security guard. ‘I need to find out what is wrong with her. She's my friend. I need to help her.’

“Hey, Teio!” A voice called from behind.

Teio whipped her head back, distracted from her thoughts. She found herself smiling as she recognised who called her. It was Mejiro Palmer, one of her acquaintances, whom she faced in the Arima Kinen.

“Oh, Palmer!” She greeted. “How are you doing?”

“Great, thank you!” The other replied. “I wanted to say ‘hi’ yesterday, but McQueen was hoarding you, so I couldn't.’

“Hoarding is a bit of a strong word, don't you think?” The voice of McQueen joined in.

“Come on, I'm joking!” Palmer said, waving her hand. “And what's up with you? You've been acting a bit off lately. I'm starting to get worried.” She said, her face taking a serious expression.

Teio furrowed her brows. ‘I'm not the only one noticing it! Something's up!’

“You're overreacting. I already told you all I wanted to figure it out on my own.” The other exasperated. “In fact, I think I'm close to figuring it out.”

“Seriously, why are you so cryptic about it?” Palmer asked. “Even if it isn't a big deal you're making us worry, you know? Your friend here was staring at you the whole time.”

“Eh?” Teio muttered. ‘Busted!’

“Well, Teio does have a bit of a habit to pay attention to me.” McQueen told her. “It's quite endearing, actually.”

‘She's teasing me again! It's almost like there are two McQueen!’ Teio thought.

“Well, you two do get along well.” The other mused. “You two remind me of me and Helios. Maybe I should invite her too, one day.”

“She'll bring life to the place, that I'm sure.” McQueen said with a chuckle.

“Well, I'm going shopping with Ardan.” Palmer told them. “I guess you two are going to… Whatever you two do together. Bye!”

Teio and McQueen bid their farewells as they watched the girl leave for her own plans.

“So, Teio.” McQueen began. “What would you like to do?”

Teio's face dropped slightly. She knew McQueen didn't want to worry her, but her unusual behaviour was starting to bother her heavily. “McQueen can we talk?”

McQueen sighed softly, looking at Teio with a slightly strained expression. “Teio, please… I already told you that…”

“Don't…” Teio said, lowly but sternly. “You're all over the place. If you want to make me not worry, then tell me something, please!”

McQueen adverted her gaze, her ears dropping as her mouth formed a thin line. “Teio… Even I don't know what it is. And the truth is… I'm embarrassed to say it. Just… Give me some more time…” She plead. “I know this isn't the answer you want from me, but… I just ask for more time…”

“You're not making sense…” Teio told her. “What happened to trusting me with stuff that bothered you?”

Teio watched as McQueen's face was overwhelmed with guilt. Teio felt her heart wrench. She wanted to trust McQueen, but with how McQueen was acting, she was beginning to get worried, and McQueen's refusal to seek help was starting to frustrate her.

“McQueen… I'm here for you… Tell me… What's wrong?”

Teio felt the room appear smaller. Most of the Mejiro have left, leaving only a handful, plus the house staff. She stood there with McQueen, hoping that her friend would give her something that would at least ease her worries. They kept staring at each other, taking side glances, occasionally. Teio began feeling her throat feeling dry and clamped, waiting for something from McQueen. Finally, she watched McQueen prepare to say something.

“Teio… I… I don't understand why, but I'm starting to act different when I'm with you.”

‘Wait, that's it?’ Teio thought, feeling whiplash from her own words.

“I don't hate it, but… Before we were just rivals and… Ugh… I almost feel like a different person and I don't understand why and I'm embarrassed about it.”

Teio made a confusion expression, watching McQueen fumble. ‘Why does it make sense? Actually, does it really? But it's something, I guess...’

“That's all I'm saying for now.” McQueen told her, looking away, her face reddening again.

“So…You're freaking out because… I make you act different?” Teio asked her.

“Yes… You're a different kind of friend, and it confuses me… I didn't want to tell you because… I thought it was silly.”

Teio felt her face contract, and suddenly, she was laughing loudly. 'Oh! I think I get it!' McQueen looked in shock as Teio clutched her ribs, trying to calm herself.

“McQueen… If you wanted to tell me you saw me as your best friend, you could've just said so!” She said wiping a tear from her eyes. “I thought you were actually worried about something.

“Uh… No, I…”

“Don't worry. I pressed you onto it.” Teio told her. “Come on! Let me show you the new game I've been playing!”

Teio grabbed McQueen by her hand, taking the out of the dining hall. ‘My turn, now!’ Feeling lighter, she pulled her through the corridors towards McQueen's room. ‘Actually, I have no idea if that's what she meant, but it makes me worry less, so I'll go with it. It's better that way.’

The two kept weaving through the corridors, Teio watching her pace carefully, not to accidentally strain McQueen's leg.

‘I'm happy as long as she's happy.’

————————————————————————

In McQueen's opinion, the rest of the day had gone by rather uneventfully. Her talk with Teio earlier in the day didn't exactly go as planned, but it eased some of her burden. Her conflicting feelings were already proving too much to handle, but having Teio, the cause of it all, constantly worrying about her made it difficult to think about it, but it also made her feel guilty from keeping something from her friend. She didn't quite manage it, in fact, remembering the exact words made her stomach twist in embarrassment. ‘Teio… I… I don't understand why, but I'm starting to act different when I'm with you. That's the best I can manage? Seriously? If I keep acting like this because of Teio, I'm doomed!’

She didn't like how she handled her conversation and she didn't understand how it worked to calm Teio down. McQueen felt as if she were lying to Teio because of it, but she couldn't dare to admit it fully, so she only gave Teio the partial truth. She knew it wasn't fair, but it was the best she could manage under the circumstances. She worried if her decision would come back later to haunt her.

She and Teio spent the afternoon together, eventually joining Ryan and Dober for a trivia game. The distraction proved refreshing, especially since, without Teio constantly focusing on her, she could have room to breathe and just enjoy her time with her. She even got into a rivalry in trivia against Teio, scoring more than her, despite the other refusing to let her win. McQueen also introduced Teio to her habit of enjoying tea along with the other Mejiro, and when she finally noticed, dinner time arrived quickly.

She and Teio were once again in her room, which Teio had nicknamed their “headquarters” due to how they had spent most of their time together there. They were sat together on her bed, McQueen already in her sleepwear, watching a video on Teio's phone. McQueen was holding her plushie of Teio, something the other had teased her about, but she managed to make the shorter girl lose interest.

“You know…” Teio began, getting her attention. “I never really had spent time with a friend like this.”

“Really?” McQueen. “If you told me you have, I wouldn't be surprised at all.”

“Well…” the other said, pausing the video. “I know I have a few friends, but I never really invited them for a sleepover, or anything. School trips aren't the same. You know what I mean?”

“I think I understand.” the purple-haired girl told her.

“I'm glad you invited me. I really enjoy spend time with you.” She told her. “Even though you've been acting weird lately. Also… Sorry about earlier. I should've trusted you more…” She said, her smile faltering slightly. “When can tell me when you're ready. Whatever it is.”

McQueen's eyes widened. She wasn't sure if Teio figured out that she didn't tell her the whole story, or that she was just going along with it, but she was thankful that Teio was willing to give her breathing room. “That means a lot, Teio.”

“But at least try not to act so random.” The other said, pouting slightly. “Seriously, sometimes it felt like I was talking to a different person!”

“Oh…” McQueen managed with a giggle. “I was a bit different, wasn't I?”

“A bit?” Teio asked. “Sometimes I wondered if Golshi possessed you or something!”

McQueen felt her body shiver in fright. “Please don't say that even as a joke.”

“Yeah… That scared me too…” The other muttered.

McQueen looked at the time on her alarm clock. “It's getting late.”

Teio looked at the same clock, checking the time on her won. “Yeah… Bummer…”

“We still have one more day.” McQueen reminded her. “And we can always hangout again.”

“I know.” Teio said. “But I'll be training for the Osaka Hai…”

McQueen felt Teio's demeanour change slightly, which worried her slightly. “Are you worried about it?”

“M-me?” Teio fumbled. “Of course not…”

McQueen smiled gently at her. “Teio, you can tell me.”

Teio looked at McQueen and let out a long sigh. “If what Prez says is true, which by the way, since Prez said it, then it is…” She began saying. “Oguri is going to be a really tough opponent. Honestly, I don't know if I can beat her.”

“You'll only know once you race her.” McQueen reassured, grabbing her hand. “Besides, what kind of rival would you be if you get scared when the competition gets tough?”

“You're bringing that now? Meanie!” Teio retorted.

The two giggled softly at their exchange, Teio dropping her phone next to her.

“Talking with you like this…” Teio began. “It makes me feel… I don't know… light, I guess? As if everything feels easier.”

“I feel the same.” McQueen admitted. “It's liberating.”

“Well… As much as I want to keep talking.” Teio said, standing up from the bed, grabbing her phone. “I'm going to bed. I wouldn't want to mess up your sleep schedule.”

“Very funny, Teio” the purple-haired girl deadpanned.

“Hehe…”

Teio walked towards the door, looking back at McQueen once she gripped the handle. McQueen felt a sense of deja vù as she did so, watching Teio's movements.

“Good night, McQueen.”

“Good night, Teio.” she said fondly.

Finally, Teio left the room, closing the door behind her, leaving McQueen alone once again. She dropped slightly against her pillow, looking up at the ceiling, the plushie still in her hold.

‘What a day… And I still haven't figured out what's happening with me…’

She looked back at the plushie, playing gently with its ears, finding a strange contentment in doing so.

‘Somehow, that little talk made me slightly calmer. Is it really it? We're just best friends? No, that can't be it… It still feels like something is missing’

She stood up from her bed and began pacing around her room, holding the plushie.

‘I know it's something special… I'm sure of it! I keep saying we're just friends, but… No! Stop being stubborn, McQueen! Think about it!’

McQueen refused to let it go. She felt that she was right on the verge of figuring it out, and she was beginning to consider the option of staying up all night just to do so.

‘We're close friends, too close… But I don't think that's what I feel… I don't see anyone else this way, not even my own family. Surely there's something else… I'm so close to figuring it out, I just know it!’

She began pacing more quickly, observing how her feet walked on the floor, her mind straining to find an answer.

‘She makes me act different with her and no one else. She makes me feel different when I'm with her. I always feel at ease when I'm with her. I've even gotten jealous over her!’

She sat back onto her bed, clutching the plushie tightly, her legs shaking as she looked for the answer she had long been looking for.

‘She's my goal, my rival… She's amazing and strong-willed. I could find multiple good things to say about her… She makes me feel…’

McQueen felt herself slow down. Her memories with Teio began flooding her mind, one after another. Memories of teasing, memories of heartfelt conversations, memories of silly interactions. All of them rushed through it, almost like a short movie.

‘She makes me feel…’

The image of Teio smiling back at her, Teio observing her during practice, the two of them running side by side, in McQueen's mind all she could see was Teio.

A tear began dropping. Then another. The tears were few, but they were slowly beginning to fall. McQueen felt her body shudder gently, a sudden weight and a brief light-headedness hitting her body, then fading slowly. She clasped her hand around her mouth as she steadied herself and the realisation began to sink in.

‘Of course… I have been denying it the whole time…’

McQueen felt a mix of sadness, longing and happiness. Images and memories of Teio kept flooding her mind. She recalled the Arima Kinen, the miracle that Teio created for both of them. Her throat clamped up and her heart thrummed in her chest, her pulse racing. She laid down, looking back at the celing, her kunckles white as she clutched the plushie tightly. She took a shuddering breath, as a simple thought formed in her head.

‘I'm in love with her…’

Chapter Text

Much to her surprise, McQueen managed to rest. She was awake in her bed, early in the morning. She was staring at a ceiling, something she had been doing often as a result of being deep on thought. She had done it. She had finally answered the question that had plagued her mind for weeks.

‘I'm in love with Teio…’

She rolled to her side, finding the plushie of Teio next to her. Her face warmed up and she quickly covered, almost as if Teio would see it through the eyes of the plushie.

‘I can't believe it! I'm actually in love with her!’

She lowered her hands and she stared at the plushie in front of her, its smile never fading.

“Look at what you have done to me, Teio! Agh… I'm speaking to a plushie!”

She quickly grabbed the plushie and hugged it tightly, clutching it with affection. She felt her body get looser as her mind relaxed, and her muscles released tension.

‘But… I don't think I really mind having feelings for her… At least I have an explanation for a lot of things. But what do I do now?’

She brought the plushie up to her face, watching the static face of the plushie, its smile radiating warmth. Suddenly she felt a sudden thought cross her mind.

‘It's just a plushie… It should fine, right?’

McQueen began bringing the plushie closer to her face. She parted her lips, her breathing uneven, as she stared at the plushie's smile.

‘What am I doing?’

Despite her own protests, she kept bringing the plushie closer to her face. Finally, she felt her lips meet the fabric, and she closed her eyes. She didn't know what she was doing in that moment, but in her state of mind, she didn't care. She kept the kiss brief, quickly withdrawing in embarrassment, covering her face with one hand.

‘I barely realised my feelings and I am already loosing it. And I call myself a Mejiro.’

McQueen kept looking at the plushie, reflecting on what she had just done, her face flush.

‘I wonder how the real thing would feel… No! That's way too many thoughts for now!’ She scolded. ‘Maybe I'll daydream about it later.’

She lay in bed, as the sound of birds could be heard outside. She clutched the plushie tightly and began kicking her legs both in excitement and embarrassment, squealing slightly.

‘I can't believe that I'm actually in love with Teio! I don't even know how to feel!’

She took a deep breath, steadying herself to allow her mind to wander slowly.

‘I wonder what I like the most about her…’ She mused, letting her mind be filled with memories of Teio. ‘Well, she is cute… I now understand why I teased her so much about it. Oh, yes, I love how she reacts to my teasing. Utterly adorable.’ She thought, giggling softly to herself. ‘She cares a lot for me in her own way, sometimes awkwardly… Oh no, I'm really doing it now!’

McQueen rolled to the other side, unable to stay still, shaking her legs under her sheets, her mind thinking nothing but Teio.

‘Is this how people feel love usually? Am I doomed to constantly think of Teio, now? What's next? Shaking at the knees? Flirting? Oh no? Do I need to start flirting with her now?’

McQueen buried her face in her pillow and screamed lowly onto it, her mind turning to mush. She didn't hate the feeling, but now that she wasn't in denying it any more and allowed all the feelings to flood, all she could do was freak out about Teio.

‘Oh, right!’ She remembered. ‘Should I call Suzuka?’

She quickly picked up her phone from her bedside table, noting how it was earlier than usual.

‘Actually… She must've know all along. That's almost scary.’

She looked for Suzuka's contact, shaking slightly in embarrassment, wondering how it would go. She steeled herself and hit the call button. The phone rang for a short while, waiting for it to be picked up. Not to long after, the noise stopped.

“Hello, McQueen. It seems you have something to tell me.”

“You're very perceptive.” McQueen commented.

“Well, we don't speak that often, and we've only chatted about this.” The other girl said softly. “So… Did anything happen?”

McQueen felt her face warm up. “Well… There's been a development…”

“Really?” Suzuka asked. “I'm curious!”

“You see…”

“Yes?”

McQueen let out a shuddering breath in defeat. “I understand it all now, Suzuka.” she told her. “Why I act so differently around Teio… I…” She paused, preparing herself, as if saying it out loud would make it more real. “I have feelings for Teio.”

“That's wonderful!” Suzuka beamed. “I have suspected it for a while, but I couldn't be sure.” She explained. “I'm sorry if my questions threw you into a bit of a crisis.”

“It's okay.” McQueen told her.

“Spe actually noticed you two acting slightly different after the Arima Kinen, so I was wondering if there was something going on. That's I why I got so curious from the start.” The other told her. “How do you feel about it?”

“That's a really good question…” McQueen mused. “But I don't hate the feeling. In fact, now that I'm not denying it, I feel a bit lighter.”

Suzuka giggled on the other side of the call. “That's a beautiful thing to say.” She said. “I don't think I can be of much help now, but just keep allowing those feelings to grow and see where they lead you.”

“But what am I supposed to do?” McQueen asked. “I've never been in love before! I don't know how I'm supposed to act. What if…” She felt her chest tighten uncomfortably. “What if she doesn't feel the same?”

“Unfortunately, I really cannot help you.” Suzuka said lowly. “Every person is different, so even if I give you my own experience, it might not fully help you.”

McQueen's ears perked up at her friend's words. “Your own experience… Suzuka, do you have feelings for someone, too?”

“Goodness, look at the time, I must be getting ready for bed!” Suzuka told her. “I'm glad you told me this, McQueen! I wish you the best of luck!”



“But… Suzuka…”


“Thank you for calling me! Bye!”

Before she could reply, the call ended. McQueen stared at her phone in disbelief. ‘Did I just witness Suzuka being bashful? Wait… she wouldn't mean… Oh well, it doesn't matter. I can't pressure her.’ She laid back, staring again at the ceiling. ‘Though, I can understand what she meant. Until I know for sure what Teio feels, all I can do is work on my own feelings… Even if I end up being hurt… Love is difficult…’

She stared back at the plushie, which she had been holding the whole time, refusing to let it go. ‘Just one more time is fine, right?’

McQueen brought the plushie closer to her face. She closed her eyes, parting her lips lightly. Suddenly, she heard her door being burst open, making her jump from her bed, hiding the plushie under her sheets.

“Good morning!” A voice greeted warmly.

McQueen looked towards the door, her breathing rushed, realising that Teio had just entered her room.

“Teio!” She shrieked. “At least knock!”

“Hehehe…” Teio muttered, scratching her head. “Sorry, I was too excited. But it's not like you were doing anything bad.” She said, changing to a teasing tone. “Were you?”

“Of course not!” McQueen retorted.

Teio closed the door behind her and moved towards the bed, where McQueen was still laying, covered by her bed sheets. She sat right next to McQueen's legs, looking at her.

“Do you have any plans today?” She asked. “Do you want to jog again? What if we hang out in the park?”

“Aren't you a bit too excited today? McQueen asked.

“Nishishi! I don't know why, but I woke up feeling great, today! Maybe something good happened last night.”

‘Oh, you have no idea.’ McQueen said to herself.

“Anyway, I don't care what it is, I just want to spend time with you, so let's do something!” Teio said, trying to McQueen out of bed, pulling her by her arms.

“Teio, we still haven't even had breakfast!”

“We can worry about that later, let's go!” The other said enthusiastically.

McQueen resisted Teio's pull, the other trying her best to take her out of bed. The pull was uneven, making McQueen lift gently out of her bed. Within the struggle, the plushie that she had hidden under the sheets, suddenly dropped to the floor. Teio paused, looking at the fallen item.

“Hmmm? Why was the plushie hidden?” She asked McQueen. She picked it up and began snickering. “You haven't been doing anything weird with my plushie have you? Is that why you were all flustered?”

“What?” McQueen shrieked. “No way!”

“Heh…” Teio said, her smirk widening. “I don't believe it. Why would you hide it from me then?” She said, bringing the plushie closer to McQueen's face. Don't be shy, Queenie!”

McQueen shakily took the plushie from Teio, who was still smiling, and put it next to her pillow. “Let's just have breakfast.” She said, getting up.

“Hey, I don't mind if you were.” The other told her.

“S-shut up…” McQueen retorted, making Teio giggle.

She put on a pair of slippers and began making their way to have breakfast.

‘These feelings are going to be the end of me…’

Followed by Teio, she went through the halls, being greeted by the house staff as they did. The two eventually reached the dining hall. She only found her grandmother there, together with Palmer that was on her phone.

“Good morning.” she greeted.

“Good morning, McQueen.” Her grandmother greeted. “You seem cheerful today.”

“Do I?” McQueen asked.

“Yeah, you do!” Palmer joined. “Yesterday you were all tense, but now you feel relaxed.”

“Is that so.” She said. “Well, I admit I had a small insight to something that has troubling me, but it won't bother me any more.” She said, taking a seat on the table.

“Oh!” Teio chimed in. “Is it related to what we talked about?” She asked.

“Maybe one day I'll tell you.” McQueen told her, smiling softly.

“Huh?”

Teio sat next to McQueen observing her. McQueen looked back at her smiling softly at her friend, which in turn made her smile as well.

“Well, you seem happy, so I won't bother you.” Teio told her.

“Miss, Teio, if you don't mind me asking.” Her grandmother suddenly called out, making Teio freeze in her seat. “Do you get along well with my granddaughter?”

“Uh… Yes, ma’am!” She said, eliciting a giggle from McQueen.

“I'm glad.” The woman said, taking a sip of her tea. “McQueen gets so focused on racing that I sometimes worry she forsakes her social connections. I couldn't be prouder of her achievements, but when she was diagnosed last year… I'm happy that you're helping her go through it.”

“Oh…” Teio muttered. “Yeah, McQueen is really strong. I'm proud to be called her rival. She always pushes me to do better. I'm glad I get to be her friend.”

“You have my gratitude for helping her.” The woman said. “I have to admit, you too have a reputation that precedes you. It's no wonder Symboli Rudolf sees you as her protégé.” She told her, which made Teio's ears twitch at the mention of Rudolf. “But enough of this talk. You are here as McQueen's guest. I will not press you further.”

McQueen watched as Teio let out a shuddering breath, smiling at the sight. ‘Poor girl, she was so nervous.’ She heard a giggle in front of her, which she notice it was Palmer. She furrowed her brows at the fellow Mejiro, who simply continued eating her toast, throwing her a knowing glance.

The house staff emerged, bringing more bread and other items to the able. Teio excitedly prepared a piece of bread with jelly, taking a bite and squealing at the flavour. McQueen went for bread with butter, taking a sideways glance at Teio, watching her attentively. She watched as how some crumbs would get stuck on her face and McQueen felt a sudden desire to wipe it off. Her gaze drifted towards Teio's mouth, focusing intensely on it. ‘I wonder how it would feel… No, not now, McQueen!’ She thought shaking her head lightly. Dober eventually arrived, seating next to Palmer as she greeted the people on the table, glancing at her phone.

“Who are you talking too?” She asked.

“Helios.” The other told her.

“Why am I not surprised?” She asked with a smile. “You two act like McQueen and Teio.”

McQueen paused as she raised her cup of tea, raising an eyebrow at Dober. She spotted Teio looking in their direction, as she bit off a piece of bread.

“How so?” McQueen asked.

“You two are always together.” She began. “I mean…” She said pointing between them with her hand. “Look at you two!”

Teio and McQueen exchanged glances, then looked back at Dober.

“Isn't that what friends do?” Teio asked.

“Well, yes, but…” The other said. “What you two have is special. And sometimes Palmer and Helios act similar to you two.”

“Hey, now!” Palmer interjected. “Don't go saying non-sense, she's just my bestie!”

McQueen felt a sense of familiarity. ‘Where have I seen someone think that way before?’. She chuckled lightly, taking a sip of her tea and getting up. She then turned to Teio.

“Will you take a walk with me, Teio?” She offered.

“Oh!” Teio said, her eyes shining briefly. “Wait a second!”

Teio quickly smeared some jam on another piece of bread and quickly got up. “See ya, girls!”

“I don't mind waiting for you to eat, Teio” McQueen commented, watching Teio getting up in a hurry.

“No biggie!” The shorter girl said, putting the piece of bread in her mouth and begging to push McQueen towards the door.

“T-teio!”

The last thing she heard was the giggles of Dober and Palmer as Teio pushed her out of the dining hall, much to her dismay. After they left, Teio finally allowed McQueen to walk on her own and started walking next to her, taking a bite from her bread and holding it in her hand.

“Did you really have to push me?” She asked.

“It was fun to do.” The other explained, taking another bite.

McQueen sighed, making Teio laugh briefly. “What will I do with you?”

“Hehe… I'm just excited to be with you today!” She said. “ I don't know why, but I'm in a really good mood, today!”

“Well, I am glad that you’re doing great…” McQueen began, as they turned a corner. “But you could hold back just a little, you know?”

“I don't know if I can do that.” Teio teased. “Not when you're here with me.”

McQueen felt her heart take a leap. “My, you're bold today!” she said, twirling some locks of her hair. “If you weren't so cute, I would be a bit mad, you know?”

“Hey! You keep me calling cute for no reason!” The other exclaimed.

“Do you not like it?” McQueen teased. “I can stop it, if you want.”

Teio grumbled, her face going red. “Agh, that's not fair!” She shouted.

“Now, now, Teio, you don't need to get shy. I'm just stating a fact.”

McQueen watched in delight as Teio's face darkened, hiding her face from her, shaking her head from side to side, as her tail shook violently.

“How can you say that without getting embarrassed?”

McQueen watched fondly, feeling her own pulse race under her skin. Her own tail was shaking, slightly slower than Teio's. ‘If you only knew.’

The two reached the door leading to the grounds of the estate, Teio having managed to calm herself down and finishing her bread. The weather was slightly overcast, but it was still bright, as many spots weren't fully covered by clouds.

“Do you think it will rain?” Teio asked.

“I don't think so.” McQueen told her. “Though it's possible That we'll see rain in April. You might have to race in rainy conditions.”

“Ugh… great…” The other grumbled. “All I needed is to race in the rain.”

“You'll be alright.” the purple haired girl said. “I believe in you.”

The two girls walked together, observing the gardens as they walked slowly, taking their time to pace the entire grounds.

“Do you really think I have a chance? Teio asked, surprising McQueen.

“Teio, what's wrong all of sudden?”

“Honestly, I'm not too worried about the others, but…”

“It's about Oguri Cap, isn't it?” McQueen asked.

“See? You get it!”

“Well, I can't blame you for seeing her as a fearsome rival.” McQueen told her. “In fact, I think we're lucky that we haven't faced her in our other races.”

“I thought that too.” Teio admitted. “Prez has told me about her. She missed the registration for the classics, but everyone still wanted to see her win the Derby! Prez also believes that if she did, she would've likely won!”

“But you won the Derby too, Teio. And the Satsuki Sho as well.” McQueen reminded her. “If it weren't for your fracture, I believe you would've been able to get the Triple Crown undefeated.”

“I know, but…” Teio mustered. “You know that quote that says ‘There's always a bigger fish’?” She asked. “I just know she'll be my toughest rival yet.”

McQueen pondered slightly, before having an idea. “I think I might be able to help you.”

“Really?” Teio asked.

“Do you remember when we raced in the Tenno Sho?” She asked softly.

“Hey, you're not going to tease me about my loss, are you?” Teio deadpanned.

“I wouldn't dare.” McQueen reassured. “That's not what I want to tell you. It's something my grandmother told me.”

“Oh?” Teio said, beginning to show interest. “What is it?”

“Do you know about the hare and the tortoise?” She asked her.

“Yeah, of course!”

“Then it should be simple. The tortoise won not because she wanted to beat the hare, but because she was only focused on winning the race.” She told her. “Your objective is the race, not your opponent. That's what I did to beat you. I knew very well you would be doing your best to beat me, so I refused to worry about you potentially catching up. That would only disrupt my focus.”

Teio's eyes widened. She stared at McQueen as the wind blew softly between them. McQueen watched as Teio processed her words, and seeing her lack of response, decided to continue.

“You need only to race like you always do.” She said. “What your rivals are capable of isn't important. What's important is that you are able to put all you have to give into your stride. Don't worry about Oguri Cap! Show me what Tokai Teio is capable of!”

McQueen heard Teio gasp softly as her words sank. They stood briefly, neither daring to break the silence. Finally, Teio smiled softly, dropping her shoulders.

“You're right.” She said. “It doesn't matter who I am up against. I just have to give it my all!”

“Now, that's the Teio I know.” McQueen said proudly.

“Hehehe… You know it!” The shorter girl said, suddenly distracted by something. “Look, a bee!”

McQueen followed Teio's gaze, watching the small insect floating around next to them. It passed close to Teio, making her freeze as not to agitate her, eventually flying away.

“I think it liked you.” McQueen said.

“Hehe… Maybe…”

“Maybe it's because you're so sweet.”

“What?” Teio shrieked. “What are you saying?”

“Nothing, silly.” McQueen told her. “Come on. Let's keep moving.”

The two resumed their walk. McQueen felt her pulse spike, feeling slightly flush and surprised from her own words. She noticed Teio trying to calm her nerves, but she too was trying to steady herself from what just happened.

‘Did I just flirt with Teio?’

————————————————————————

After she and McQueen had lunch, Teio was sitting on McQueen's bed across of her, playing chess once again. She didn't expect it, but playing chess against her had now become a new hobby which Teio was enjoying. McQueen offered to help her improve, and after a few matches, she was beginning to notice the difference.

She also couldn't help but notice McQueen's new demeanour. Fortunately, she seemed to finally be recovering from her weird state of acting “not-McQueen-ly”, but Teio didn't to fail to notice that McQueen was getting bolder with her teasing. McQueen wasn't staring off into the distance, or looking absent-minded like she had the previous weeks, which was a relief to Teio, but her teasing of Teio was an exception, which Teio thought that it had actually increased.

She heard a soft thud, noticing that Teio had moved a piece. She quickly analysed the changes in the board, noticing how just by moving a pawn, McQueen had opened multiple lines of where she could attack. Previously, this would've pushed Teio into a corner, but this time, she had managed to have placed her pieces in a way to dampen a possible blow. She moved another pawn to stall for time, hoping it would slow down McQueen's strategy.

“You're getting better, Teio!” Her friend praised, making her ears twitch. “I'm impressed.”

“Hehe… Thank you!”

Teio glanced at McQueen, who was smiling softly. ‘Well, she looks better, at least. I think I can survive her teasing. Maybe I should just get used to it…’ She reminisced about their previous conversation about the Osaka Hai. McQueen's words made sense. If she worried too much about facing Oguri Cap, it would only affect her training, and eventually her race. If she raced in that condition, then even placing would become a problem. The idea made her uncomfortable, but she believed there was something worse that could happen. ‘What if I disappoint, McQueen?’

She had noticed this recently. Her focus on training and just racing didn't make her worry about this often, but as she spent more and more time with McQueen and the latter got closer to recovery, what used to be a smaller issue was now becoming a bigger anxiety. She looked up to McQueen, but she knew very well just how much the other looked up to her in return. More than performing badly, she feared betraying McQueen's expectations, and that was something that she thought she couldn't afford. ‘If I start running poorly, will McQueen be disappointed in me? Will she stop hanging out with me? Ah, no! I don't want that!’

“Teio, it's your turn.”

“Oh!”

Teio quickly looked at board, analysing the pieces, swiftly making a move.

“What's distracting you?” McQueen asked.

“Nothing…”

“Nothing?” the other mused. “That's odd… You wouldn't be distracted by me, were you?”

“H-hey!” Teio interjected. “What's with you teasing me so often, now?”

“I like it, that's all.” She explained. “And recently, I've been doing it so often, I might’ve gotten addicted.”

“Agh, stop it!” She grumbled, shifting on the bed.

Then, by accident, she accidentally made one of the pieces tumble. It turned into a small chain reaction that toppled a few other pieces. In her desperation to stop it, she accidentally knocked over other pieces, making the board a complete mess.

“Ah! Now I've done it!”

“Oh, my…” McQueen commented, looking at the mess. “It's alright. We've been at this for a few hours already. It's a shame, though.” She said as she looked at Teio. “I think you might've had a chance to actually win this time.”

“Do you really mean it, or are you just teasing me again?” Teio asked in suspicion.

“Hmmm… Good question.” The other replied.

‘She's having too much fun with this…’

McQueen began storing the pieces back, closing the board with the hook as she out the container inside it. She placed it on her bedside table, turning back to Teio.

“Anything else you want to do?” She asked. “I believe the repetition is starting to get to you.”

“I don't know.” Teio said. “I'm fine just being with you.”

“You keep saying that.” McQueen said fondly. “Isn't there anything you want to do?

“I don't think so…” She told her.

“Nothing at all?”

“Hmmm…”

Teio stared at McQueen, thinking about anything she might’ve wanted to do, but her mind couldn't think of any ideas. Instead, she decided to think about anything she wanted to do that she could only do when McQueen was present. Her friend began fidgeting in place under her gaze, and finally, after a few seconds, she thought of something.

“Can I hug you?” She asked bashfully, her face warming up.

“Hug me?” McQueen asked lowly, her own face flushing.

“Yeah…” Teio said. “I can't think of anything and… I want to hug you…”

“Well…” the other said, looking to her side in embarrassment. “Aren't you cheeky? I suppose I don't mind.”

Teio felt a surge of happiness and slowly approached McQueen, wrapping her arms around her, making her friend fall backwards. She heard McQueen yelp, as she slowly nuzzled her face onto her neck.

“Teio…” The other mustered. “Aren't you a bit too clingy?”

“Shut up.”

“Seriously, if you keep doing this, I might actually start to like it.”

Teio felt her tail begin to swish as she felt McQueen's chin rest on top of her head. She felt her face warm and a sense of contentment she couldn't describe. ‘This feels nice. I wonder why I like it so much...’

She felt a hand starting to stroke her hair, and with that her body froze. ‘Woah! Isn't she getting too into it? And why does it feel good?’

She laid there, noticing how McQueen's torso raised and fell with her breathing. She began melting onto the hug, enjoying the feeling the best as she could. ‘I might actually get addicted to this. Maybe…’

Interrupting her thoughts, a knock on the door was heard. She quickly launched herself upwards, McQueen doing the same. The two girls sat straight in the edge of the bed, McQueen smoothing out inexistent wrinkles on her clothes.

“Come in!” Her friend called.

The door opened and from it appeared a girl with short hair, which Teio immediately recognised as Ryan.

“Hey, McQueen! Grandmother wants to see you.” The other girl called.

“See me?” McQueen asked. “Why?”

“I don't know. But I think it's important.”

McQueen sighed briefly, then turned to Teio. “Excuse me for a bit, Teio.”

“Oh… Don't worry. I'll wait.”

McQueen nodded to her with a smile, the made her way to the door. Before she left, she looked back at Teio flashing a smile, then disappearing through the door.

‘I hope it's not because she invited me. What if her grandmother doesn't let her invite me again?’

Teio sat on McQueen's bed, staring at the door, as if by doing so, it would make McQueen return quicker. She looked back onto their weekend. As unprepared as it went, Teio thought it was one of the best weekends she ever had. She had spent most of the time alone with McQueen, but she didn't mind it at all. She had been concerned about her friend's wellbeing, but now that whatever problem she had seemed to be fading, Teio could now begin to relax, but not without a slight difference.

Teio had been so preoccupied with McQueen that she didn't pay attention to her own worries. The pressure of the Osaka Hai was looming. She wasn't scared of the race, but she also knew her opponents weren't intimidated either. Her main concern was Oguri Cap, a legend in the Twinkle Series. Teio had spoken countless times with Rudolf about when she was more active and what came soon after, and one she would often mention, was Oguri Cap, a girl that came from the country side and took the nationals by storm. Rudolf had told her on how she missed the registration for the classics, but the press and the public wished for her to compete the in the Japanese Derby, which never happened, but would later result in the creation of a new rule for cases like hers.

Among her outstanding record and intimidating performance, Teio knew she would probably be the fiercest opponent she had ever faced. Teio took her phone from McQueen's beside table, where her friend's phone was also laid. She searched for Rudolf's contact, wondering if she was worrying too much. McQueen had told her not to focus on the opponent, but rather her own racing, but Teio wanted to know who she was dealing with in more detail. She pressed the call button, waiting for the call to connect. The phone rang for a few seconds, as she waited. ‘Maybe she's doing student council stuff. Seriously, she needs to learn to relax, a little.’

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the call was answered.

“Hello, Teio!”

“Hey, Prez! How are you doing?” Teio asked. “I hope you're not overworking yourself again. I'm going to tell Air Groove if you were!”

She heard a chuckle from her phone. “Don't worry, Teio, I was just reading a book and had my phone away.” The council president told her. “How have you been?”

“Hehe, I'm doing well!” Teio told her. “Hear this! McQueen invited me for the weekend!”

“Did she really?” Rudolf asked, her tone failing to hide her surprise.

“Hehe… She did! It's been so much fun!”

“That's good to hear! I wonder if there's more between you two that meets the eye.” The other mused.

“Huh? What do you mean?” Teio asked.

“Don't worry about it, for now.” The council president said. “Is there anything you wanted to speak to me about?”

“Oh…” Teio muttered, remembering the purpose of her call. “There is actually…”

“What is it?”

“Well… I was wondering if you could tell me more about Oguri Cap.” Teio said.

“I see…” Rudolf said more quietly. “She's going to race the same race as you. It's natural that you'd be interested. Are you nervous?”

“Uh… Me? Hahaha….” The short girl said. “No…”

“Teio, you don't need to act brave.” The other told her. “It's okay to admit that you're nervous about racing an opponent like her.”

Teio let out a shuddering breath in defeat, her ears dropping. “Nothing gets past you, does it?”

“I have a reputation to uphold as the Emperor.”

“Hehe… right…” Teio muttered. “McQueen told me not to worry and focus on the race, but… I don't know… I feel like Oguri is on a different league.”

“That doesn't sound like you, Teio… Is everything alright?” Rudolf asked, concern evident in her voice.

“I don't know… Maybe me being worried about McQueen is starting to affect other things.”

“I don't think you have anything to fear, Teio.” The other reassured. “After what you did in the Arima Kinen, no one would doubt your ability. Your opponents are just getting better, so you have to do the same. Besides, you have someone you want to beat, right?”

Teio stared at the floor as her mind drifted to her rival, the one she had to beat no matter what, McQueen. She felt her body warm up and her drive made her body shiver in excitement as she suddenly felt an urge to run against her friend.

“Yeah… I want to beat McQueen!”

“Oh… I was actually talking about when you said you would beat me one day…” Rudolf muttered.

“Oh!” Teio said as her face reddened. “Yeah, of course! I have to beat you too! I just… you see…”

Teio heard a chuckle coming from her phone as she laid down onto McQueen's bed, grumbling and kicking her legs.

“Don't worry, Teio.” The other said. “I don't mind if you have other rivals in mind.”

“But I still want to beat you too!” Teio quickly corrected. “I just…”

“I understand, Teio. You don't need to explain.” She reassured. “As for what we were talking about, I can tell you something about Oguri.”

Teio felt her brows furrow in concentration, as she sat straight again.

“Keep in mind that this isn't any form of advice, just something that might help you improve further.” Rudolf explained. “Oguri has an overwhelming presence on the turf, no matter how much you try to ignore it. Once you begin running, you'll quickly understand where she is just from her stride.”

“Huh?” Teio uttered. “How?”

“You'll understand once you race her.” The other told her. “You probably don't realise this because you usually follow the pace closely, but there is a pressure felt from the one running in front set by the others running behind.”

Teio processed the words that Rudolf was telling her. ‘Maybe this is why McQueen meant.’

“Of course, many are used to this.” Rudolf continued. “Seiun Sky, which you'll be facing too, is very used to this and will be expecting it. Oguri runs in such a way that naturally puts an intense pressure, even if accidentally. When she approaches from behind, it's as if you're running from an earthquake. Of course, pressure is meaningless if the other simply ignores it. That is probably what McQueen tried to warn you about.”

Teio's eyes widened as she listened to Rudolf's words. She felt her skin go cold, as her fighting spirit flared.

“Do you understand, Teio?” Rudolf asked. “You don't have to worry about who you're facing, regardless of their reputation. You only need to ensure you run your best. When it resolves to that, the winner is determined by their own strength and desire to win. All you have to do is run like you're used to. Do not be swayed, Teio!”

Teio sat in silence, clenching her free hand on top of her knee. Her mind returned to the Arima Kinen. The image of Biwa Hayahide popped into her mind. She remembered how she put every ounce of energy into her legs, despite them begging for rest. Her eyes focused on the goal, and her mind focused on the only thing she cared, creating a miracle for her and McQueen.

‘I can do it!’

She sat in silence briefly, finally allowing herself to return to her senses.

“I think I get it, Prez. Thank you!”

“You're welcome, Teio! Is there anything else you want to ask me?”

“Nah, that was all.” Teio told her. “I'm going to hang up, okay? Bye!”

“Good bye, Teio.”

Teio clicked on the hang up button and she laid down backwards again, looking at the white ceiling of her friend's room.

‘It's just like McQueen said… All I need to worry about is what I do. If I let Oguri's presence shake me, then I have no chance of winning.’

Her ears perked up as she heard the click of the door handle. She sat straight to find McQueen returning, her usual smile showing on her face.

“So, what was it about?” Teio asked.

“She just wanted to talk to me about what the doctor told me.” McQueen explained. “She wanted to make sure I would be careful and not do anything reckless.”

“Oh…”

“What did you think it was about?” McQueen asked.

“I… I thought it was something bad about me…” Teio admitted as she scratched the back of her head.

McQueen giggled, hiding her mouth. “Oh, Teio… She told you this morning that she was happy that you were my friend!”

“I know, but… Ah, forget it, what matters is that all's good!”

“You're right.” The other said, approaching Teio and sitting next to her. “We should be called for dinner any time soon, and then we'll have only a bit of time before our weekend ends.” She said, sounding slightly disappointed.

“It was quick, right?” Teio asked, noting her shift in tone.

“It was…”

“I wanted to spend more time with you… Maybe you're right…” Teio told her. “Maybe I'm getting clingy.”

“Well…” McQueen began. “I don't hate it.” She said, turning away, though Teio could see her cheeks flushed. “You just need to control when you do it.”

“Hehe… I'll try…”

Teio leaned slightly back, hoping that time would stop for a brief moment. ‘I've been spending more time with McQueen, lately. I think I'm starting to get addicted. I never had a friend like this. It feels nice.’

She turned to McQueen who looked back at her.

“We really should hang out more.”

McQueen flashed her a smile, her cheeks still red, though Teio could not understand why. “We should.”

The two stayed in silence, and Teio allowed herself to be alone with her thoughts briefly. The weekend was ending and soon the two would return to their usual lives. For Teio, it all happened too fast, and she felt as if her head had been in the clouds the whole time. The memories of her weekend with McQueen floated in her mind, and she wished she would create many more. For a reason she could not explain yet, staying with McQueen made her feel incredibly relaxed and content, and she wished she could hold on to that feeling as much as she wanted. Soon, she would be returning to a more intense schedule in preparation for the Osaka Hai, but for now, all that mattered for her was that she was with McQueen.

‘I'll win the Osaka Hai! I'll defeat Oguri Cap! I'll win it… for her!’

Chapter Text

At Tracen signs of early Spring could be seen. The flowers were starting to bloom, and trees that had lost their leaves during the cold season, had regained most of them. As usual, the students were going on about their daily lives, another Monday after a weekend.

Teio was running down the track, running to track her time. The Osaka Hai was little more than two weeks away, so she was beginning to increase the intensity and focus of her training. She had succeeded in the Kyoto Kinen, but her next race would have her return to the G1 races, and she knew her opponents wouldn't let her take the win easily. The most fearsome was Oguri Cap. Though she wasn't as nervous about it as the previous day, a faint pressure in the back of her head urged her to be cautious. Teio cleared the last corner of the training track as she entered the homestretch, pushing the floor beneath her feet with all her might. She could her her own steps thundering, her trainer coming into view a few hundred meters away.

Her legs felt lighter than usual, and Teio knew why. Usually she would spend the weekend at the dorms, but this time, McQueen had invited her over the weekend, and Teio couldn't have been happier. Between ridiculous amounts of teasing and heartfelt moments, Teio felt closer to McQueen than she ever had. She tried to brush the thought aside, focusing on the track ahead of her. She pushed her legs harder, throwing specks of dirt behind as she ran across the straight. The figure of her trainer approached, and besides him, she could see a figure with purple-hair joining him. Teio felt herself smile as she tried to exert strength she wasn't sure she had, hoping to do as best as she could.

Finally, she flew past the goal and began slowing down slowly, finally feeling the burn of her chest as her breathing tried to settle. She walked back towards her training, who was watching the time on his stopwatch. He smiled briefly, turning the visor towards McQueen who was next to him. Teio saw her eyes go wide briefly. ‘Hehe… I impressed her!’

“Good job, Teio!” The trainer told her. “You beat your record by two tenths. Good job! Let's stop for today.”

“Hehe!” Teio said, putting her hands on her waist. “It's me you're training, you know?”

“Someone is in a good mood.” The gentle voice of McQueen told her, their training leaving to call the other members.

“Don't think I didn't saw your eyes going wide at my time.” Teio teased. “Are you scared?”

“You would like that, wouldn't you?” McQueen asked in defiance.

“Fufufu… Once you see me run in the Osaka Hai you'll see just how good I'm running.”

“Don't get cocky, now.” The other said. “You have to win it first.”

“What if I win it for you, then?” Teio asked.

“For me?” McQueen asked, her face blushing slightly.

“Yeah! I'll win it for you!”

“Teio…”

“Alright, girls!” The trainer called from behind McQueen, the remaining members behind him. “We're done for today. Teio, before you go I have something I want to show you in preparation for the Osaka Hai.”

“Eh?” Teio whined. “You're letting everyone go except me?”

“Don't worry, it will be quick.” He told her.

“Don't worry, Teio!” Gold Ship said cheerfully. “I'll get a very spicy Yakisoba just for you!”

“Very funny…” Teio muttered.

“Hmph…” The other scoffed dryly. “You're no fun.”

“I don't think she's the problem…” Scarlet commented.

The other girls of the group and McQueen began making their way back, leaving Teio and the trainer alone on the track.

“Let's go to my office.” Her trainer told her. “There's a race I want to show you.”

“Hmm? What race are you going to show me?” Teio asked as they began walking.

“It's the Autumn Tenno Sho from a few years back. There's something there that I think could help you.” He explained. “McQueen told me you're worried about Oguri Cap.”

Teio's eyes widened slightly at the mention of the name. “A little.” She admitted. “McQueen told me to worry about her. Prez also told me the same thing. I know it's not very difficult, but… That girl is a beast!”

“Even if she is a beast…” He began. “She can't beat you if you don't let her. Your problem here is letting the pressure of facing a big opponent get to you.”

The two walked into the main building of the academy, making their way to his office, passing multiple students leaving from their own training sessions, others simply hanging out in the corridors. They finally reached the office, a computer that Teio recognised as her trainer's already turned on. Her trainer grabbed an extra chair, placing it near his and gestured for her to sit next to him.

“What I'm about to show you is Oguri Cap's first G1 race.”

“Her first G1…” Teio mused. “Didn't she lose that one?”

“Exactly.” He told her. “She only won at the end of the year in the Arima Kinen. Her rival was the same since the Tenno Sho. Do you know who she is?”

“Her rival…” Teio said. “Prez told me… She was… Cross something…”

“Close.” The trainer said with a chuckle. “Her name is Tamamo Cross. She happens to be Oguri Cap's roommate.”

“That reminds me of someone.” Teio said, remembering her two teammates that were often arguing.

“Oguri Cap was on a winning streak since she entered the nationals and everyone thought she might be the on to win against Tamamo Cross. It happened, but not immediately. She was the favourite, but ended second at the Tenno Sho.”

“But she was still a year younger than her, right?” She asked.

“That doesn't matter for now, Teio. I'm not here to sing praises about her.”

Teio focused on the video, where the runners were lining up at the gates.

“What I want you to do is to watch Tamamo Cross run.”

“Eh?” Teio uttered. “But I'm running against Oguri!”

“Exactly!” He said. “Tamamo Cross was under the exact same pressure as you will be during the Osaka Hai.” He explained. “I want you to see how she handles it.”

Before she had time to process her words, she heard the click of the gates opening and the runners in the video began their race. Her eyes first focused on Oguri Cap, but not wanting to ignore her trainer, she searched for Tamamo Cross, just as the announcer voice raised in pitch.

“An unexpected development! Tamamo Cross is going forward and is chasing the leader!”

“Why is it unexpected?” Teio asked.

“Tamamo Cross would usually run farther behind. It is said that she had a trauma with running in the pack due to a fall in an earlier race, but she surpassed it here.”

“Wow! That's amazing!”

Teio continued watching the video. Her eyes focused on Tamamo Cross running right before the leader. She noticed how Tamamo was closely following the runner in front of her, as if she was waiting patiently to pass her. ‘Isn't she worried about Oguri? She's not that far behind.’ The race continued as the girls approached the third corner. It had been mostly the same, the positions staying relatively the same. Teio's eyes focused on Tamamo Cross, per her trainer's instruction, but her mind was telling to look at Oguri Cap. She resisted the temptation. She didn't yet understand what her trainer was trying to show her, but she decided to do as he said.

As the runners approached the final corner, Teio saw Tamamo Cross start to approach the runner in front, hoping to overtake her. The crow's cheers got louder as Tamamo began to slowly advance in her position. From the corner of her eye, Teio spotted a spot of white starting to move across the pack.

‘There she goes!’

Teio's eyes immediately locked onto Oguri Cap, but she quickly tried to focus back on Tamamo Cross. ‘No, you need to watch Tamamo!’ She focused on Tamamo Cross which was now side by side the front runner and slowly overtake her as they entered the slope right before the goal of the Tokyo Racecourse. Tamamo Cross continued her stride, putting distance between her and the one she had just overtaken. Teio continued focusing on her, this time because she wanted to. She noticed how Tamamo Cross kept running without any care for what was happening. Ironically, just as Teio was feeling excited by her running, she saw someone beginning to approach Tamamo Cross. Oguri Cap had just closed in and was right onto her, getting close to overtake. Teio's eyes widened and she felt a shiver running down her spin at the display the two girls were putting in. Suddenly, just as if Oguri was about to overtake, the difference in distance stopped and the two crossed the goal shortly after. The crowd roared in the trainer's computer as Teio kept staring at the screen, showing the runners slowing down. She felt a sudden chill, one she couldn't explain.

“So…” Her trainer called. “What did you get from it?”

Teio looked at her trainer, still in shock at what she just watched. “I… I don't even know what to say… She kept following the runner in front of her the whole time, waiting until she got tired to overtake, and then… Oguri was right on top of her and… She didn't even care!”

Her trainer smiled softly, satisfied with her response. “You see what I mean? It was obvious that Oguri was going to suddenly catch up, everyone was counting on it.” He began. “If you worry about something that is guaranteed to happen, then you only risk disrupting your pace. In fact, you'll face a similar challenge. Maybe harder, actually.”

“Harder?” Teio asked. “What do you mean?”

“I'm pretty sure you remember the trouble that Seiun Sky gave Spe in the classics.” He said, receiving a nod from her. “She's very confident in her front runner skills, but she also has a more mischievous side.” He explained. “She has this habit of making you think that she already gave it her all, then suddenly showing what she's really capable of. Your first problem will be racing normally while avoiding to fall into Seiun Sky's trap. Then, and only then, do you need to worry about Oguri Cap.”

“I think I get it.” Teio told him. “Tamamo Cross first made a move to take the lead, then, before the goal, she focused on keeping first place knowing that Oguri was glued to her.”

“Exactly.” The trainer said proudly. “It's perfectly normal to have a strategy for the course and simply follow it, but when you have multiple opponents trying to apply their own strategies, sometimes you have to strategise a bit more.” He said, tapping his forehead with the tip of his finger.

“I see… I'll think about it.” She said. “Is that all you wanted to show me?”

“Yes, that's all. You can go, now.”

“Alrighty!” Teio said. “I'm going then, bye!”

With a spring in her step, Teio got up from the chair, walking sideways in her usual performed step to avoid the desk, then began walking briskly towards the door, leaving the office room. She closed the door behind her, then began walking to go and change her clothes back to her uniform. ‘I wonder if I should get some honey before going to my dorm.’ She thought as she left the main building out to the main grounds of the academy. Just as she was about to sing about honey, as she often did, she suddenly hit something in front of her, making her stagger backwards.

“What the…”

She spotted a girl in uniform, a girl much taller than her, making her look upwards. She saw a girl wearing shades and a mask, accompanied by three other girls featuring the same accessories. Thought they seemed to be attempting to hide their identity, Teio quickly recognised the four girls as her team members.

“Seriously…” She muttered.

“Scarlet! Vodka! Spe!” Gold Ship called as they moved in formation. “Get her, girls!”

“Yes, Gold Ship!” Special week said, holding a bag, one that Teio knew very well as “The sack” as Gold Ship called it.

“Uh, what are you doing, you know you can just…”

Before she had a chance to argue, Teio's vision suddenly went dark, as she felt the infamous sack being put over her, as her body was lifted and beginning to be carried.

“Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!” The other Spica member shouted from outside.

‘They know they can just speak to me, right? What did I even do?’

Teio was carried for a short while, but to her it felt like an eternity. The bag was hot and dark, and her breathing was being affected slightly by the confined space. Finally, she felt her body being put onto a chair and a rope being tied around her, securing her to the chair.

“Alright!” Gold Ship shouted, her face now in full view. “Operation complete!”

“I don't know why you are doing this, but you know you could've just asked me to come right?” Teio deadpanned. “I was already coming here to change anyway.”

The other members looked between each other, realising that Teio was right, then looking back at her.

“Well, it was more fun this way.” Gold Ship commented.

“Hey! It's not fun for me!” Teio retorted. “Why did you even do this?”

“You really don't know?” Vodka asked. “You suddenly disappear last Friday, then we discover that you spent the weekend at the Mejiro.”

“What?” Teio shouted, her face warming up quickly. “Who told you that?”

“Nobody.” Scarlet told her. “I was up early and I saw you arriving with McQueen. We assumed the rest, but now you've confirmed it.”

“Ugh… Yeah, alright, but… Why is it a big deal?” Teio asked, struggling against the rope.

“Oh, I think Spe can explain it better.” The tallest of the group said, having started to solve a Rubik's cube.

“Uh… I don't think this is fair to Teio…” Special Week said, chuckling nervously.

“Come on, Spe, we're just interrogating her a bit.” Vodka reassured. “It's just a little of friendly teasing.”

“Ugh…” Teio muttered. “I already have McQueen to do that to me, I don't need any more teasing.”

“Huh?” The others shouted.

“Nothing!”

“Anyway, Spe, tell us what you spoke with Suzuka.” Gold Ship asked.

‘Huh? Suzuka?’ Teio thought.

“Well… She only told me to pay attention to McQueen and Teio.” The other girl explained, looking at Teio as if she wanted to apologise. “She never said why. But why is it a big deal?”

“And don't you think that's important?” Scarlet asked. “There's something going on between those two and Suzuka knows!”

“But…” Special Week began. “Suzuka just wanted me to check if things were going well… But I don't think she meant… ‘that’.”

‘What does she man by “that”?’ Teio pondered.

“It's obvious that they're using their rivalry to hide something.” Vodka said while looking at Teio. “Remember, they went together on Valentine's.”

Teio felt her face warm up to uncomfortable levels as her tail tried to swish while she at uncomfortably on the chair. “H-hey! There's nothing going on between us! You girls are overthinking it!”

“Are we though?” Scarlet asked.

“Actually, we could say the same about you and Vodka.” Gold Ship added.

“Huh?” The two roommates shouted.”

“Maybe we should just let it go…” Special Week said, letting out another nervous chuckle, enough to distract the others from an impending argument. “Maybe we just misunderstood what Suzuka meant.”

The four teammates looked between each other, then seemed to agree on something.

“Fine, we'll drop this.” Scarlet told her.

“For now, at least.” Gold Ship deadpanned.

“I swear, this team is crazy.” Teio said.

“You're part of it.” Gold Ship said.

“I know…”

Scarlet went behind the chair and untied Teio. Finally free Teio stretched her arms and legs.

“Alright, mission failed!” Gold Ship said. “False alarm, let's go home!”

“I think you mean dorm, silly.” Scarlet corrected.

“Details, details… You know what I mean.” The other said in a carefree tone.

The other members began leaving, with the exception of Special Week who stayed behind.

“Uh… Sorry about this, Teio…” The other girl said with dropped ears.

“Oh… It's okay Spe!” Teio told her. “I'm already used to this stuff from all of you.”

“This wouldn't have happened if I didn't ask help to understand Suzuka's message.” The other girl said quietly. “It got a bit out of control.”

“Now, now, Spe!” Teio comforted, placing a hand on her friend's shoulder. “It happens and no one got mad, that's what matters, right?”

“I guess…” Special Week agreed. “But Teio… Is there something different between you and McQueen?”

“Me and McQueen?” The shorter girl said, smiling softly. “Well, I actually think we're closer now! It feels great to spend time with her and... Well, she teases me differently, now…” She said, suddenly starting to feel her cheeks flush again. “Forget I said that!”

“Oh!” Special Week muttered, her eyes sparkling in the light. “I think I get what Suzuka meant!”

“Huh, what is it?”

“Don’t worry!” Her friend said. “But if you need any help, you can ask me! Bye!”

Special Week made her way towards the door and left, leaving Teio alone in the room.

‘What just happened?’ Teio thought as she looked at the door closing. ‘Well, I can't stay mad at them, I kind of like this silliness.’

Teio sighed and began trying to put the whole ordeal behind her. She took the opportunity to finally change back into her uniform. ‘Seriously, what's the big deal about me spending the weekend with McQueen? That's what close friends do! And why did Suzuka tell Spe to pay attention to us?’

As she dressed her uniform and put her training clothes into her bag, she looked at the picture of Suzuka on her vacant locker, which said “Currently on an overseas tour”.

‘Does she know something that I don't?’

————————————————————————

On the following day Spica managed to get together during lunch time. McQueen sat next to Teio with Special Week right in front of her. The amount of food the girl ate always managed to surprise the purple-haired girl, who tried not to focus too much on it.

“So, the Osaka Hai is getting close, right?” Gold Ship asked from the other side of the table.

“Yeah.” Vodka agreed. “Like… in two weeks, or something. It'll be on the first Friday of April, I think.”

“Speaking of which, that reminds me!” Scarlet suddenly called out. “McQueen, isn't your birthday the day before?”

“Oh…” McQueen noted. “You're right.” She could swear Teio was suddenly paying a lot of attention to her, which made her feel a bit shy.

“Do you have any plans?” Special Week asked her enthusiastically.

“Not really…” The girl told them. “It's going to be in the middle of the week, so maybe I'll just spend some time with you girls and maybe a bit with Ryan and Dober.” She explained. “I don't really want something big, if that's what you're planning, though I appreciate the thought.”

“Well, it being in the middle of the week is a bit tough to try something with our schedule.” Scarlet said. “Especially for Teio.”

“Right, she has a big race on the following day, and her competition is going to be tough, too.” Vodka agreed.

Teio, who was silent for most of the conversation, was looking at her teammates as she ate her food in silence. She lowered her chopsticks as she swallowed the bite of food she had.

“I don’t think it’ll be a problem.” Teio told them. “I should take it easy the week of the Osaka Hai, so I don't think we need to worry about it.”

“Yeah, you'd love to spend time with McQueen on her special day, right?” Gold Ship suddenly said.

“W-what?” The shorter girl suddenly called out.

McQueen tried not to look towards her friend as she felt her face warm up.

“Yeah, don’t think that, just because we let you go without pressuring yesterday, that we won't be paying attention to you.” Vodka told her.

McQueen observed her teammates in confusion. ‘Yesterday? What did they do?’

She suddenly felt a tap on her shoulder. She looked to her side, seeing Special Week approaching her. As the others continued talking to Teio, McQueen leaned towards her friend.

“So… Yesterday we brought Teio to the locker room and questioned about the weekend… And because I told them Suzuka asked me to keep an eye on you two.”

McQueen paused monetarily, letting the words sink in. ‘They got suspicious about the weekend… Knowing them, that makes sense…’ She thought. ‘But why would Suzuka… Wait!’ McQueen suddenly felt her face go warm. ‘Does Spe know? Did Suzuka tell her? Oh, this is embarrassing!’

McQueen leaned back against her chair quickly, her face flushed as she resumed eating to try and distract herself. She spotted Special Week looking at her, then smiling softly to herself before she too focused on her food. ‘At least it looks like she won't tell the others. That’s good.’

“Well…” Teio was heard, making McQueen focus back on the conversation that was going on between the others. “I can focus on McQueen's birthday and the Osaka Hai at the same time, so it doesn't matter.”

She watched Teio go back to her food. ‘I wonder what they were talking about. I wasn’t paying attention.’

They all finished eating and left the cafeteria. All of them, except McQueen had classes right away, and wanting to take the opportunity to relax a little, McQueen found a bench on the school grounds and sat there.

‘It’s getting warmer. I suppose it makes sense, we’re getting to the end of March.’

The area felt quiet, only a few students being present, and a few birds could be heard. McQueen let herself relax, focusing on the sounds and feeling a gentle breeze that was flowing past her. She remembered the weekend and she felt her body go warm. ‘These last few days have been… interesting to say the least… I wonder what will happen next…’

McQueen had finally figured out her feelings, but while she answered the question that plagued her mind, new questions appeared. She now knew that all this time she was falling in love with Teio. First, it was admiration as her rival, but later it turned into genuine feelings. The energy that Teio gave was something that McQueen had gotten used to, and despite the short girl's antics, McQueen would always felt endeared. While McQueen was allowing herself to feel what she had denied, new worries now existed, but one of them spoke louder than all the others. ‘What if she doesn't feel the same?’

McQueen felt like she was in a romance manga. She had feelings for someone, and she didn't deny that liking Teio felt pleasant, but the feeling of rejection was now beginning to form. ‘I barely had time to even feel what I feel for Teio, what if it all ends too soon? What if…’

“McQueen?” A quiet meek voice called.

She looked to her side, spotting a girl with black hair and a small hat with a blue rose.

“Oh! Rice Shower!” She said smiling. “It's been a while!”

“Y-yes!” The other girl said. “M-may I sit next to you?”

“Yes, of course!”

The other girl smiled softly, sitting next to McQueen. McQueen noted how she seemed slightly nervous to suddenly join her, but she seemed to relax at being welcomed to sit.

“It's been a while since we last spoke.” McQueen commented. “Have you been well?”

“Yes!” Rice Shower told her. “I have been feeling very good, lately! I have been spending a lot of time with Bourbon lately. She's very nice!”

“That’s wonderful to hear!” McQueen said. “I've heard you'll be in the Osaka Hai.”

“Yes.” The other girl said. “If… If I place better than Teio… No one will get angry, right?”

McQueen giggled softly. “Aren't you confident? Teio is no pushover!”

“Ah…” The other girl said, going red in the face. “I don't mean to say I'm better than her, I just…”

“Don't worry, I know what you mean.” McQueen reassured. “But at this point, I think people already stopped seeing you in the bad light they once saw.”

“R-really?” Rice Shower asked, her eyes hopeful.

“Yes. People see you for your strengths now.” She explained. “Even if you win against someone's favourite, they'll probably still respect you.”

“I see…” The other said, suddenly feeling much happier. “That's nice…”

“With that said…” McQueen began. “Teio is going to give her all, regardless of who she is facing, so don't expect the race to be easy.”

Rice Shower giggled softly. “McQueen, you seem happy when you speak of Teio.”

“Do I?” She asked her.

“Yes!” Rice Shower told her. “It's as if your eyes shine when you speak of her, and you say such good things about her…”

McQueen smiled softly, shifting her gaze to the ground as her face felt warm again. “Well, Teio is quite special to me.”

“Special?” The other asked.

“I'm sure you'll figure it out.” She told her, the heat on her cheeks getting stronger. “Teio is special to me in a way no one else is. I can't help but get carried away by her energy.”

“Oh… I think I get it. I… have someone like that, too.”

“Do you?” McQueen asked. “Would you like to tell me? She asked gently.

“Well…” Rice Shower began, her face quickly turning red.

“Maybe not.” McQueen said with a giggle. “I won't force you, if you don't feel comfortable.”

“T-thank you…” The other said, sighing softly.

The two stayed in silence briefly, before McQueen heard Rice Shower take a deep breath to speak.

“Are you worried if Teio feels the same?”

McQueen looked at her, her face dropping slightly. “I don't know…”

Rice Shower's ears dropped slightly. “It hurts to think about it, doesn't it?”

McQueen looked to her side slightly, trying not to dwell on her heart wrenching in her chest. “It does…”

“I-I'm sorry!” Rice Shower suddenly bluttered. “I shouldn't have made you sad!”

“Oh, no, don't worry!” McQueen tried to say while waving her hands slightly. “I don't mind it!”

“I-I… I remembered I needed to meet with Rob Roy!” Rice Shower said as she suddenly stood up. “It was nice speaking with you, McQueen!”

Before she could say something, Rice Shower was already beginning to storm off, running with dropped ears.

“There she goes…” McQueen muttered to herself. “Her self-confidence is better, but she still has ways to go.”

She leaned back slightly, allowing her own thoughts to wander. ‘Though I still have my own worries, too…’

Her mind began to flood with images of Teio, making her slightly more relaxed. The feelings in her mind were still fresh, and there was much she still didn't know about love. Between all of that and her worries about her feelings between being reciprocated, she thought it was best to simply allow herself to feel it all slowly. She gazed at the blue sky above her, thinking about the one she cared about the most.

‘If only you knew how you make me feel…’

Chapter Text

March had ended quickly, at least to McQueen. Her workload had increased slightly and so did her training. Her trainer was still being cautious, but with the promise of being able to run normally again after the Spring Tenno Sho, McQueen was determined to make it a reality.

She tried to, but she didn't find much time to daydream about Teio. Now that she finally understood her feelings better, she could focus a bit better, but that didn't mean it was all smooth sailing.

When they ran together during warm-ups, McQueen felt herself feeling even better than before whenever Teio was next to her, but whenever the two locked eyes, she would always have her breath taken away. At one point, during lunch, she had accidentally brushed her hand against Teio and she had to do everything in her power not to hold it. When she went back home for the weekend, she would hold the plushie whenever possible, to the point where she had forgotten about it and accidentally brought it to the dinner table, much to her embarrassment.

On the side, Teio has began to train specifically for the Osaka Hai. The race was usually held at the Hanshin Racecourse, which had an uphill section right before the finish, just like Nakayama and Tokyo, so their trainer was having Teio working on her stamina and running uphill. McQueen knew that Teio could hold her pace until then, so it was all a matter of tackling the uphill at the end. Unlike the Kyoto Kinen, where they tackled the Yodo Slope which was at the corners, the Osaka Hai would have all the height changes happening at the homestretch.

McQueen had also noticed Special Week paying attention to her and Teio closely. Her friend had told her that Suzuka had asked for her to do it, but McQueen thought she was taking it a bit too far, and would focus heavily on them when she and Teio were together, even when Special Week was focused on her food. McQueen felt a bit unnerved, but she couldn't blame her friend's innocence. She knew that Suzuka was probably curious and wanted to watch for developments while she was overseas, but she felt that her friend was probably taking it a bit too serious.

With all of the different things happening, the week of the Osaka Hai had finally arrived. The race was to be held on Friday, the day after McQueen's birthday. She didn't knew if her friends had prepared something special for her, but she didn't mind regardless, and they had agreed to simply have dinner out along with their trainer, using the opportunity to have Teio relax right before the race.

Spica had just finished training for the day and they were all changing back to her uniforms. McQueen was right next to Teio, who was humming, a habit McQueen noticed that she liked to do often. She had noticed however that, while she never had a problem before, a creeping thought would now begin to form whenever they were in the changing room.

‘Don't… look…’

McQueen was used to changing clothes next to her teammates. She had seen characters in certain stories getting embarrassed, but McQueen never had any reason to worry about it until now. The problem was not related to her, however, but to Teio instead. To McQueen, changing was nothing special. She would swap her clothes, maybe tune in on her teammates conversations, and that was it. At most, she would wait for Teio to be finished and walk to the dorms with her, but nothing else. Now, however, McQueen's resolve was being tested. She knew that accepting her feelings for Teio would make her act differently around her, but she wouldn't expect that she would be curious of Teio so soon. The short girl was right next to her, humming happily while changing clothes and McQueen kept her gaze on the floor right in front of her, glaring at it.

‘Don't look… I know she's cute, but not now! Not when we're changing!’

“Hey, McQueen, did the floor insult you, or something?” She heard Gold Ship's voice say.

‘Great…’

“You know that sometimes people can just stare blankly, right?” Vodka asked.

“Yeah, but McQueen?”

McQueen didn't look up, but she knew that her teammates gazes were focusing on her. ‘Just what I wanted…’

“Uh… Maybe we…” Special Week called out meekly.

“Hey, I know McQueen is pretty, but she'll get uncomfortable if you keep interrogating and staring at her like this, you know?” Teio said.

McQueen felt a sudden relief, accompanied by a flushing of her cheeks. ‘Teio thinks I'm pretty…’

“Oh, yeah, maybe we should do another interrogation!” Gold Ship said, grinning mischievously.

“No!” Both Teio and McQueen shouted, surprising the others.

“Uh… alright?” The tallest of the group said, dropping the subject.

McQueen sighed, putting her track wear in her bag. “I'll wait for you outside, Teio.” She told her friend, but making sure she wouldn't look at her friend, lest she would only embarrass herself further.

She exited through the door, leaning gently against the wall near it, taking a deep breath as she did so.

‘I thought that having confirmed my feelings would make me calm down… But look at me… I probably look like a stereotypical girl in love…’

She moved a hand onto her chest, realising that her heart was beating fast, and her breath was uneven. She did a few breathing exercises to calm herself down, allowing her racing mind to rest briefly.

‘I don't even know what I'm supposed to do. Should I be more bold and let Teio know I like her? What if that goes wrong? Maybe she doesn't even feel the same…’ She mused, her heart aching at the thought. ‘I thought that being in love was a wonderful feeling… Well, it is… But sometimes it hurts…’

Her ears perked up as she heard the door click open. She looked at it, spotting Teio emerging from it.

“Hey!”

“That as quicker than I expected.”

“Yeah, I didn't want to risk another interrogation.” Teio told her. “I love those girls, but they are a bit too much, sometimes.”

“Our team is quite lively, isn't it?” McQueen said, smiling.

“Hehe… Yeah…” The other agreed. “Let's go!” She said, gesturing with her head to go to the dorms.

The two began walking slowly, leaving the changing room behind.

“Are you read for the big race?” McQueen asked her.

“I think so.” Teio told her. “I'm still a bit nervous, but I'll only know how it goes when the race starts. Prez helped me a bit, too.”

“Then, you have nothing to fear.” McQueen said proudly. “I'm looking forward to watch you race.”

“You should take notes.” Teio teased with a smirk. “Or you won't be able to catch up to me.”

“Well aren't you confident?” McQueen said.

Teio giggled at her friend's response looking ahead. “Well, if I do what I always do, it should be enough. The regimen the trainer is putting me too is also helping me.”

“I can see that”. The purple-haired girl noted. “And this time you're not overtraining… As much, at least.”

“Hey, it's not the same as before!” Teio said, pouting slightly as the two walked through the gates, crossing the street to the dorms.

“I know, Teio, I know.”

“Well, Trainer said to rest on Wednesday and Thursday anyway, so I'm finishing training for this week tomorrow. He'll probably have me help you on Thursday.” The other explained. “Besides, your birthday is the day before the race.”

“You're right.” McQueen said. “Honestly, I don't really mind just spending the day normally, but I'm happy you girls decided to make my day a little bit special.”

“Hehe… That's what friends are for!” Teio said with a bright smile.

“Maybe we should do something similar for your birthday. It's the same month, after all.”

“Well, many of us are… Actually, let's not think about that, it's too many birthdays close together.” The other said.

McQueen giggled at Teio's comment in amusement. 'I wonder what they'll do. They just told me that they wanted it to be special.'

“By the way, do you have any strategy for the race?” She asked her, changing the subject.

“Hmmm… Not really.” Teio told her. “I guess I'll just run and…”

McQueen suddenly noticed fast approaching footsteps from behind. She looked behind to see what was happening, and Teio did the same. She spotted a girl running while holding something in her hand and another girl giving chase.

“Sky! Give my phone back!” The girl chasing said, trying to prevent her bag from swinging wildly with one hand.

“Nyahaha!” The other girl giggled, looking back at her friend chasing her. “Come and get it!”

The girl featuring green hair looked back with a mischievous grin as she quickly approached the gate to the dorms which McQueen and Teio had just passed.

“Excuse me!” The girl said as she avoided them. McQueen observed the scene with Teio and she could swear the girl looked surprised as she spotted them.

The other girl was a bit behind, still giving chase, completely ignoring the two girls' presence, her brown hair flowing as she passed by them.

“Come back here, Sky!” She shouted while manoeuvring carefully around Teio and McQueenn. The other simply giggled as she kept running.

“Wasn't that…?” Teio began.

“Seiun Sky.” McQueen replied. “And I think the girl chasing her is King Halo.”

“Well, Spe did say she was a bit like that.” The other commented. “Especially with King Halo.”

“Isn't she going to run in the Osaka Hai too?” McQueen asked her.

“Yeah…”

The two resumed walking, making their way towards the Ritto dorm. They only walked a bit until they saw green hair again, popping out from behind one of the dorm buildings, this time, not being followed.

“Do you think she gave the phone back?” Teio asked.

“Who knows?”

McQueen kept observing Seiun Sky who was catching her breath slightly. They weren't allowed to run at full speed at school and in the dorms, since Uma Musume could run faster than normal people, which would be dangerous, but the girl was still showing signs of slight exertion. She noticed the girl approaching them, which McQueen found unusual. ‘Isn't she from Miho dorm?’ She thought, remembering when she passed by them earlier. ‘Does she want to speak with Teio?’

“What's wrong?” She heard Teio ask.

“Yaho!” Seiun Sky greeted as she got close to them. “Sorry about earlier! I didn't meant to run so close to you!”

“It's alright.” McQueen told her.


“You two are Spe's teammates, right?” She asked them, getting a nod in response. “I'm Seiun Sky!”

“We've heard about you from Spe!” Teio told her. “She said you're a bit of a trickster that likes to slack off.”

“Heh…” The other girl said, scratching her chin. “I wouldn't say I slack off. I just like to take things easy. You can’t rush the fish to bite, you know?”

McQueen looked at Teio, giving her an awkward smile, which Teio returned.

“Anyway…” Seiun Sky called, turning to Teio. “You are Tokai Teio, right? I saw how you ran on the Arima Kinen! You'll be in the Osaka Hai too, right?”

“Yup!” Teio respond. “That's right!”

“Oho!” The other said. “I like your style! Maybe I should give it my all in the race!”

Teio chuckled awkwardly. “You're just like Spe said you were…”

“Oh, don't worry about it, just pay attention to me and don't get distracted when you see me run, okay?” The other teased.

“Heh!” Another voiced joined in, getting everyone's attention. “The race isn't just about you two, you know?”

A short girl featuring two long red and blue ribbons on her head was to the other side. McQueen's eye's widened as she quickly recognised her, and she saw that Teio had too.

“You two can blabber all you want, but you should watch out for Ogurin, if you ask me.”

McQueen spotted Teio suddenly go stiff at the nickname and she unconsciously grabbed Teio's arm, clutching her sleeve gently to try and calm her down.

“Oho!” Seiun Sky perked up. “The White Lightning is here! Are you defending your friend's honour?”

“Heh, I'm just warning you not to get distracted.” The other girl said crossing her arms at Seiun Sky. “Ogurin is no pushover and she'll leave you in the dust if you underestimate her. That happened all the time when she debuted."

“My, my!” The green-haired girl said, placing her hands behind her head lazily. “We never said she was easy to beat. She managed to beat you, after all!”

“Hey! Why am I catching strays?” The other girl, which McQueen recognised as Tamamo Cross suddenly shouted. Though the girl tried to appear intimidating, shaking one of her fists, but McQueen noted that her height wasn't doing her any favours.

“Ah!” Yet another voice, more gentle, joined in, getting everyone's attention. “I found you!”

McQueen felt a hand grab her sleeve tightly. She immediately assumed it was Teio, and she knew why. The second sudden appearance was no other than Oguri Cap herself.

“I thought you had gone to the cafeteria to get another snack!” Tamamo joked around with her roommate. “Did you find your wallet?”

“I did…” Oguri said, her ears dropping slowly. “It was in my bag the whole time.”

“Heh…” The other girl said shrugging. “I told you just didn't search well enough.”

“But I…” The white-haired girl began, but suddenly noticed the stares of everyone. “Oh… Hi!” She said, waving at the girls. Her gaze then focused on Teio, and the shorter girl went stiff. Oguri, however broke into a smile as she recognised her. “You're Tokai Teio, right? I have seen you race! That Arima Kinen was great!”

“Oh…” Teio said, broken out of her trance. “Yeah, right…”

“I'm looking forward to race you!” Oguri told her. “It doesn't matter who wins, I know it will be a great race! I can't wait until I finally get to run against you!”

McQueen watched Teio closely. She saw the girl's eyes widening and suddenly a smile formed on her face. McQueen felt lighter, relieved that Teio was getting over her nerves.

“Me too! Don't hold back against me! Give me all you've got!”

“Uh… I'm here too, you know?” Seiun Sky called out.”

“Oh…” Oguri said. “I'm looking forward to race you too.”

“Just an afterthought…” The other said, shrugging.

“Sky!” The girl from before, King Halo called, making the green-haired girl flinch. “I'm not done with you!”

“Oops, got to go! See ya!”

Seiun Sky suddenly launched from where she was standing, King Halo giving chase.

“I guess we should go too.” Tamamo Cross told them. “We're going to dine out with some friends. We were just going to leave our bags when we found you.”

“Bye.” Oguri Cap told them.

“Bye-bye!” Teio said, appearing more cheerful.

“Goodbye.” McQueen said.

The two girls entered the dorm, leaving Teio and McQueen still outside. McQueen heard a deep sigh, chuckling as he looked at her friend.

“I'm alive!”

“Teio, don't be silly.” McQueen said fondly.

“I know she's nice, but… It's like she has an aura!”

“Are you alright?” McQueen asked, this time more concerned.

“Actually, yeah… I think meeting her made me less nervous.” Teio explained.

“That's good to know.”

“Well…” Teio began. “I'll walk you to your dorm and then go to mine.”

“Thank you.” McQueen said, smiling at the invitation.

“Hmmm…” Teio muttered in a teasing tone. “Do you actually enjoy me escorting you to your dorm?”

“I do actually.” McQueen said fondly, taking Teio aback.

‘Got you, silly.’

“I see…” The other said, looking forward, clearly disappointed that her teasing didn't work.

“Do you like to escort me to the dorm, Teio?”

“Uh…” Teio said, going slightly red. “Well… It's not like I like it, or anything…”

“Really?” McQueen pressured with a gentle smile. “Then why did you offer it?”

“Ugh…” The shorter girl mumbled, her face reddening further. “You really enjoy watching me squirm, don't you?”

“Oh, I love it, Teio!” She said fondly. “Maybe you should let me tease you relentlessly on my birthday!”

“You…” Teio grumbled until she looked forward pouting and crossing her arms.

McQueen watched as her friend walked besides her. ‘I can't get enough of this girl…’

The two reached the door to her dorm, the sun already giving a gentler hue as it was beginning to set.

“Well, we're here.” Teio said. “I guess I'm off to my dorm. Bye!” She said, turning the opposite way.

“Wait, Teio!” McQueen called, making her friend stop in her tracks.

“What is it?” Teio paused, looking at McQueen with her hands behind her back.

“See you tomorrow! Rest well!”

“Oh! You two, Queenie!” The other beamed.

The two exchanged smiles before each turning opposite ways. McQueen entered the dorm, finding Ikuno already present. She greeted her and went to take a bath. Her mind drifted back to Teio as the water began to rush over her head.

‘I still don't know what to do… Am I doing enough? Or maybe it is too much…’

She took a deep breath, feeling her heart beginning to race again at the thought of Teio.

‘Love really is complicated.’

————————————————————————

Teio was pacing in her dorm room. It was Thursday just after classes and soon she would head out to training.

“Teio, are you okay?” Her roommate, Mayano Top Gun, asked.

“Y-yeah… Don't worry, Maya…”

“You sure?” The other girl asked. “You've been walking in circles and looking at that box in your desk.” She said, pointing towards Teio's desk where a small box wrapped with a lace tied in a bow sat.

“Well… You know…”

“Don't tell me…” Mayano said, gasping and covering he mouth with her hands. “You're giving it to someone special!”

“No! It's not…” Teio began. “Well… It's not like she's not special, but…”

“Is it McQueen?” Her roommate asked.

Teio felt her tail beginning to wag violently. ‘Not now, tail!’ Her face warmed up as she dropped onto her bed face first and she proceeded to scream onto her pillow.

“Hehe… It's funny to see you like this.”

“Meanie.” Teio murmured, turning her head to face Mayano. “You're reading too much into this."

“But I thought you and and McQueen got along very well…” Mayano commented. “You don't have to hide it from me, you know?”

“I already told you, it's not…” Teio said, sitting straight. “Ah, forget it…”

“What's in the box, anyway?” Her roommate asked, sparing her from embarrassment.

“Oh! Her birthday is today, so I got her a present.” Teio explained. “Prez hung out with me yesterday to help me. Actually, she made a joke about it too…” She said, her face turning serious.

Teio heard Mayano gasp at her reply. ‘Not again.’ She looked at the girl to see her covering her mouth again and her face turning red.

“That's just like that one Manga I read where…”

“Okay, okay, I get it!” Teio said, standing up. She moved towards her desk, grabbing the small box and putting it in her bag. “I need to go training and… Give this to McQueen.”

“Why didn't you give it to her earlier?” Mayano asked.

“Well, we're not from the same class and…” Teio began.

“You're shy to give it to her.”

Teio felt her face warm up again and she turned away so her roommate couldn't see it.

"And you want to do it when she's by herself?"

“Anyway, I'm going. Bye!” She shouted as her face heated up uncomfortably.

Teio made a beeline to the door, and she could hear Mayano giggling as she closed it on her way out. ‘Seriously, that girl sees everything romantically.’ She thought, blushing. ‘Me and McQueen aren't like that, right?’

During the week, Teio had spent most of the time thinking about McQueen's birthday. After meeting Oguri Cap in person, she finally managed to stop worrying about the Osaka Hai, which in turn led to her thinking about her friend, most specifically what she should gift her.

She and her teammates would make a small party for McQueen, her trainer included. It wouldn't be anything big, both due to lack of time and the fact that McQueen preferred something more simple. Each member had helped gather a few drinks and snacks as well as a birthday cake. Teio remembered how Gold Ship teased their trainer about having to throw a party to every single one of them when their birthdays were all close together, which made her grin slightly. ‘He really has it tough, doesn't he?’ She made a mental note of asking her teammates of making his birthday party special.

Helping with the party was very straightforward, but Teio quickly got stumped when trying to figure out a present to give to McQueen. Teio wasn't exactly great at figuring out gifts to give to others. The plushie was something that Rudolf had given her with the sole purpose of giving it to McQueen. Due to that, she asked for Rudolf's help and they managed to hang out in the evening of the previous day.

Teio had wanted to give McQueen something special. She didn't really know what label to give their relationship, but she knew the purple-haired girl was more important to her then what she would usually admit, so she wanted her gift to be something to represent that. She opened the bigger of her bag slightly, looking at the box neatly placed among her things. ‘I hope she likes it. Prez said she'd probably like things like this. Actually, didn't she say something about it?’

She searched in her mind for Rudolf’s words and deadpanned when she did.

‘Oh right, she said it was a “Fan-tastic present from McQueen's number one fan”… I'm not even a fan, I’m her friend!’

Teio shook her head, attempting to forget the council president's pun as she neared the changing room. She was from a different class from McQueen and their schedules didn't allow for her to meet McQueen at all during the day. It wasn’t as if Teio was voiding McQueen, but she never had a chance to meet with her friend, and in the few times she spotted the familiar sight of purple-hair, McQueen would be accompanied by Ryan and Dober. Teio didn't have anything against the other two, but on this particular day, there were special circumstances.

Teio wanted to give McQueen her gift as soon as possible, and in fact, she planned on doing it at the first chance she had, however, as soon as she first spotted McQueen with the other two girls, Teio suddenly felt shy about giving out the gift in front of other people. Her face warmed as she imagined the idea again. ‘I need to catch McQueen alone, or I'll never manage to give her the gift!’

She finally reached the changing room and entered it. She saw her teammates finishing changing, McQueen included. ‘There she is! But I can’t do it with the others watching…’ She thought as her ears trembled.

“Hey, Teio!” Vodka greeted. “We haven't seen you all day!”

“Yeah, my schedule was kind of packed today.” She told them as she sat next to McQueen, placing her bag on her side. “I even had to help my teacher at some point.”

“Sounds rough...” The other commented, not continuing the conversation.

Teio looked to McQueen sat to her side., who was looking to her as well. As soon as she parted her lips to speak, however, McQueen gasped in surprise as if she was caught and quickly looked away.

“Don't tell me you were staring at me.” Teio teased

“Hello to you too…” McQueen grumbled as her face went red and she focused on tying her shoelaces.

“Come on, Teio.” Scarlet called out. “You know why she was looking at you. Don't tell me you forgot.”

“As if!” Teio said, chuckling lightly.

She looked at McQueen who was watching her from the corner of her eye. McQueen was pretending not to care, but Teio could tell that McQueen was looking at her, almost expectantly. He heart skipped a beat at the sight. ‘She's pretty like this, too.’ She thought.

“Hey, McQueen.” She called out softly.

“Yes?” Her friend asked, now turning fully towards Teio.

Teio felt a big smile forming in her face as she began to speak. “Happy birthday!”

She watched as McQueen mimicked Teio's smile and her face flushed slightly, making her heart skip yet another beat. ‘Seriously, she's really pretty today! What happened?’

“Alright, I don't want to be a pain, but we'll be late to training!” Gold Ship called out, smiling broadly. “Let's run until our legs can't move an inch!”

“You of all people is worried about being late to training?” Scarlet shouted.

“She really is determined today…” Special Week commented as she watched her teammate in shock.

“I can't even go all out today, I have a race tomorow.” Teio said. "I'm only doing warm-ups!"

“Oh, yeah, right…” The tallest of the group said. “Then I guess I'll take it easy too.”



“Didn't you just talk about being late?” Vodka asked in confusion.

“Meh… I think our trainer won't mind.”

Gold Ship stood proudly as she lifted her arms in a shrug, her teammates all dropping their heads with long sighs.

‘Golshi being Golshi…’

The members all went to the training grounds, other girls already training as well. Teio noticed a girl with long black hair and a rose on her head, which she recognised as Rice Shower and gave her a smile wave before the other girl had to return to her training. Their trainer was already at track where they would practice overtakes, as they have been during the week. 'She's training even today. She's racing tomorrow, too!'

“Hello, everyone! And happy birthday, McQueen!” he greeted.

“Thank you, trainer!” McQueen said with a small bow.

“Alright, girls!” He called. “We’re doing the same again, today. Most of you race behind others so I want to guarantee overtaking isn't a problem. Teio, you're with McQueen today again. I don't want you to get tired for the race tomorrow.”

“You got it, trainer! Teio said enthusiastically. “McQueen and me are going to have a nice jog and she'll be stronger than ever!”

Teio heard McQueen giggle next to her, making her look at her friend a shoot her a big smile. She spotted Special Week smiling at them and turning away. ‘Hmmm? Why is Spe so happy?’

“Time to start, then!” The trainer called. “Just because Teio is doing well, it doesn't mean you guys can't fall behind. On the double!”

“Yes!” They all said in unison.

The girls all began to jog slightly on track for the warm-ups. A usual Teio stood next to McQueen, their friends ahead of them.

“How has the day been so far?” Teio asked McQueen.

“It has been nice. I have been spending time with Ryan and Dober.” The girl told her. “A few people also wished me a happy birthday. Oh! And Bourbon practically had to force Rice Shower to do it because she was afraid she would give me a bad day…” She said, smiling softly.

“Yeah…” Teio said, smiling awkwardly. “Rice still has a bit of trouble with that. Actually, I'm racing her too!”

“You can't afford to get focused on just on opponent, you'll have multiple potential threats on the track.” McQueen warned her.

“I know, I know.” Teio said dryly as they reached the first corner. “I'm not going to focus only on Oguri Cap.”

“Speaking of which, you seem less worried about her.” The other noted. “It seems meeting her really helped you.”

“I know, right?” Teio asked. “I thought she was a bit intimidating, but she's really cool too! And the other day I saw her being sad because the cafeteria ran out of food…” She commented, shuddering at the memory. “After having eaten who knows how many plates full of food… She could give Spe a run for her money.”

“Right…”

“Oh and do you remember the other girl chasing Seiun Sky?” Teio continued. “I think her name was Queen something…”

“I think you mean King Halo.” McQueen corrected.

“Yeah, that! I saw them do a mock race yesterday!” She told her. “They weren't going all out, but it was quite close! Seiun Sky won, though. I'll have to watch out for her too.”

“As long as you don't let her lure you with her bait, you should manage. That doesn't mean you should underestimate her, though.”

“Yeah, I know.”

The team finished their warm-ups. They did some light stretches before splitting into two groups, one consisting only of McQueen and Teio. The two would be running straightaways together, but this time McQueen would be running at a higher pace, which she had been steadily increasing.

“Okay.” Teio said. “This track has a slope similar to the one in Tokyo, so it should help you if you manage to make it to the Autumn Tenno Sho.” She explained.

“Thank you, trainer Teio.” McQueen thanked her smiling.

“Trainer Teio?” The shorter girl asked, her face beginning to warm up.

“What?” McQueen asked, her smile never fading. “You just sounded similar to how a trainer prepares their trainee to their next race. Don't you like it?”

“Well…” Teio began scratching her head. “It's not that I don't like it… Hahaha…”

McQueen giggled softly. “I'll be running at about 50% of max speed and then try to increase it slightly. I won't go any over 75%, though.”

“That sounds good.” Teio told her. “Just be careful with the slope. If your leg hurts, stop immediately.”

“You really sound like a trainer, Teio, I'm proud of you!” McQueen complimented her, clapping her hands softly.

“Anyway!” Teio half-shouted, her face becoming hotter every second that passed. “Get ready. I'll time your run.”

“Of course!”

McQueen began moving towards the other edge of the straightaway as Teio prepared the stopwatch that their trainer lent to her. ‘She really loves to tease me, doesn't she? And I think I'm actually starting to like it…’

McQueen got to her position and waited for Teio to give her the signal. She wouldn't be running the whole length of the straight, but rather only until she cleared the slope. Teio raised her arm, which made McQueen learn forward slightly, in preparation.

“Ready!” Teio shouted.

Shortly, she lowered her arm and McQueen began sprinting. Teio noted it wasn't as fast as she was used to, but it was only natural while McQueen's doctor didn't give her the green light to train as usual, yet. She watched the other girl begin to climb up the slope as she took glances at the stopwatch. Pieces of turf were being flung backwards as the purple-haired girl propelled herself across the track. ‘Didn't she say she would go only at about 50% at the start?’ Teio thought to herself while observing. ‘Unless…’

McQueen finished the climb earlier than what Teio anticipated, and quickly she could already see her friend deep in focus as the goal approached. She flew past Teio as the mechanical beep of the stopwatch rang. The shorter girl looked at the stopwatch and her brows furrowed. ‘That's quite fast for someone holding back.’

“How was it?” She heard McQueen's voice.

Teio showed the stopwatch to her friend as she approached. She stood near Teio as she brushed a few locks of hair away from her face. Teio observed her and caught herself staring.

‘Recently I have been paying attention to McQueen… She's actually really pretty. I'm almost jealous…’

“Teio?”

“Oh?”

“I said…” McQueen said, crossing her arms. I'm going for another run. “Were you even paying attention?”

“Oh! Sorry!” Teio fumbled, only making McQueen sigh with a small smile.

‘Real smooth, Teio!’ She scolded herself.

The two continued the same exercise, McQueen increasing her pace with every attempt. On every one she would check her time. Teio felt that something was off, however. Whenever McQueen came to see her time, she would always get close enough to bump their shoulders, and without fail she would brush locks of her face away from her face. At first, the short girl didn't think much of it, but eventually she began to grow suspicious. ‘Is it just me, or is she getting closer every time? And why is she always brushing her hair away even when she doesn't need it? It's almost like that one manga Mayano showed me! Wait…’

“Alright, girls!” A male voice suddenly called.

“Wait, already?” Teio commented.

“We've been here a while already, Teio.” McQueen told her.

“McQueen, before you go I want to ask you something.” The trainer told the girl. “You girls can go.”

Teio spotted the other girls looking at her and Teio nodded. All was going according to their plan.

“Don't worry, McQueen, I'll wait for you once I'm finished!” Teio told her friend.

“You will?” The other asked, receiving a nod from Teio. “Thank you!”

Teio waved at McQueen before catching up with the other members that had already began walking away. She waited until they were a bit farther away before she spoke up.

“Is everything ready?”

“Yup!” Vodka told her. “The decorations are in my locker and Scarlet's. We just need to take them out.”

“It's nothing complicated, really.” The red-head chimed in. “Just a a banner that we could easily store and a few hats.”

“Maruzensky taught me how to bake a cake!” Special Week joined in with a proud smile. “I also brought drinks!”

“Me and trainer got the other stuff.” Gold Ship told her. “We just need to prepare the table and get the party poppers.”

“Did you get your stuff too, Teio?” Scarlet asked.

“Yup!” She told them. “I bought the candles yesterday and I wrote out message in the birthday card too! We just need to wait for McQueen!”

“Let's hurry, then!” Scarlet said. “We don't know how long trainer will keep McQueen busy.”

The group rushed to their room and quickly changed. Vodka helped Scarlet with the decorations, while Gold Ship helped Special Week in getting the table ready. Teio put the candles onto the cake and some fire sprinklers. ‘Spe did really well!’ She thought as she looked at the cake that her friend baked. As she finished, she helped her friends with the last touches and set the birthday card in front of the cake. Special Week began tapping her phone and made a video call. The call connected until a familiar face appeared.

“Hello, everyone!” The girl greeted.

“Hello, Suzuka!” They all replied.

“Is she not there yet?” Suzuka asked her teammates.

“Not yet, but any moment now!” Special Week told them.

Teio had a box of matches ready on her hand. She wanted to light them just before McQueen arrived. She waited with bated breath while their teammates made small talk with Suzuka. Suddenly her phone buzzed and she quickly unlocked it, almost dropping it in the process. Her eyes scanned the screen and saw the trainer's message.

“Everyone, get ready!” She called out.

Everyone went quiet, and only a few giggles could be heard. Teio quickly lit up the candles on the cake, as well as the sprinklers. She dashed towards the switch and turned off the lights, quickly returning to meet her friends. The room was dark save for the lights emitted from the candles and Special Week's phone.

The girls waited in silence until the door suddenly clicked open. The door opened only slightly.

“Why is it so dark?” McQueen's voice was heard as her hand was seen searching for the switch. The lights suddenly turned on.

“Happy birthday!” The group shouted, surprising McQueen.

“Everyone!” The girl gasped.

“Happy birthday, McQueen!” The trainer's voice was heard as he too entered the room.

“Didn't I say you didn't need to?” The girl asked, though she was failing to contain her smile. Her tail was swishing quickly behind her. "Although, I sort of expected you girls to do this... You even made a card!"

“We did it because we wanted too!” Teio quickly said. “You deserve it!”

“And you've been trying so hard to get back from your injury!” Special Week joined in. “We just had too!”

“You girls…” McQueen muttered, crossing her arms while still smiling.

“By the way…” Gold Ship interrupted. “Our birthdays are all sort or close together… Does this mean that there'll be a bunch birthday parties?”

“Shh! Don't worry about that now!” Vodka told her.

"I teased trainer the other day about, but not that I think of it..." The tall girl began. "Oh well, it is what it is!"

Teio spotted her trainer suddenly getting nervous. He was the one paying for the party they just did and would undoubtedly be responsible for all the other team members if they did a party for everyone. ‘I'm sorry, trainer… We'll make it up to you!’

“Everyone!” Special Week called. “Let's continue with the party! I'm feeling bad for McQueen for having to watch the cake and not eating it!”

“Are you sure you aren't as eager to eat it as well, Spe?” Suzuka said.

“Uh… well…”

The group laughed at the two girls while Special Week bashfully scratched her head.

“Anyway, let's just get the party started!” Teio told the group. “The candles are going to melt!”

The group all sat at the table with McQueen right in front of the table and Teio right next to her. The group sang “happy birthday” to the birthday girl who sat awkwardly glancing at everyone, never keeping her gaze on anyone one for too long. Finally, as the song ended, McQueen gently blew on the candles, making Gold Ship cheer loudly. McQueen smiled bashfully at the centre of attention. Teio spotted her taking one last long look at her before looking at the cake that their trainer was now beginning to cut into slices as Scarlet and Special Week passed them around, while Vodka served the drinks.

McQueen was the first to get her slice and her ears immediately perked as she took a bite.

“This cake is good!” She said. “Where did you girls get it?”

The group all looked at Special Week, while in her phone screen Suzuka could be seen giggling. The girl began fidgeting at the sudden attention as her cheeks went red.

“Hehe…” She said. “I made it… Maruzensky taught me how too. I used the carrots that my mother sent me.”

“You used your own carrots just for it?” McQueen asked in surprise. “That's sweet of you!”

“Knowing her she probably has a few more boxes full of them.” Vodka commented. “I don't think you need to worry.”

“Actually, my room has a few boxes she sent me, too.” Suzuka told the group.

“If you ever need more I'm happy to send you more, Suzuka!” Special Week quickly offered.

“Don't worry, Spe. These are enough for now…” Her roommate told her, chuckling awkwardly.

The group kept chatting and laughing as they ate cake. The atmosphere was light and everyone was enjoying themselves. Teio allowed herself to get carried away, but a nagging thought remained.

‘I still need to give her the gift!’

The sun was already setting and soon they would go back to their dorms. They all would go to bed earlier as the Osaka Hai would be the day after. Teio began weighing the option of giving McQueen her gift in front of everyone, or try to convince her to wait. Caught up in the festivities, however, she didn't manage to give it enough thought, and quickly the party began to wind down.

“Alright everyone.” The trainer called. “I think  you should begin going back to the dorms. Remember we need to go to Takarazuka tomorrow.”

“Eh… already?” Gold Ship commented. “Bummer.”

“I wish I could come with you girls…” Suzuka commented.

“By the way, Suzuka, when are you coming back?” Vodka asked.

“It won't take long… But maybe I'll make it a surprise.”

“Suzuka, that's mean!” Special Week said.

“Now, now, Spe, you'll have Suzuka back, don't worry.” Scarlet tried to comfort.

“I know, but…”

Teio observed the exchange with a soft smile. ‘They remind me of me and McQueen.’

“I'll begin tidying up.” The trainer said as he stood up from his chair. “Actually… McQueen, do you want to change first?”

“It's getting late, so I think it's best I change directly into my bed clothes at the dorm.” McQueen said. “But thank you.”

The trainer nodded and group began standing up as well, picking their bags and making their way to the door. Teio fumbled awkwardly as she realised she was running out of time. ‘What do I do, what do I do? I need to give it to her quick. Ugh… Time to improvise!’

Teio made her way towards McQueen who was now passing through the doorframe. Teio went after her, passing by the still opened door, holding it for Special Week who was right behind her. She dashed until she caught up to her friend and gently grabbed the sleeve of her tracksuit, which made the girl look behind her.

“What's wrong, Teio?”

Teio stood silent for a while, further confusing McQueen. She took a deep breath as she steeled herself.

“Can we stay a bit behind?”

Teio managed to see a faint blush forming on McQueen's face, her face poorly illuminated by the sun setting.

“Yes… of course.”

The rest of the girls caught up, but Teio and McQueen allowed them to go in front. The two walked at a much slower pace, their teammates widening the distance.

“Is there something you wanted to talk to me about, Teio?” McQueen finally asked.

“Sort of…”

Teio stopped walking and McQueen waited for her. ‘Come on, Teio, you can do it!’ She looked at her bag, hesitating for a few seconds before finally pulling the zipper. She carefully removed the box that was still neatly stored within it and presented it to McQueen.

“For you… I hope you like it.” Teio said, looking away.

‘I did it!’

“Teio! I…” McQueen managed. “Thank you! What is it?”

“Hehe…” the shorter girl said, forcing herself to look back at McQueen despite her embarrassment. “Why don't you open it?”

“Hmmm… Is it another plushie for me to hug?” McQueen teased.

“You'd like that, wouldn't you? And why a plushie when I'm right here?”

“Maybe I'll take you on that offer.” McQueen told her as she slowly removed the ribbon and carefully began to remove the lid. “I wonder if… Oh, Teio!”

McQueen's eyes widened as she saw the contents of box. Inside it were two charms. Each one was a different Uma Musume, which McQueen quickly recognised as being herself and Teio. Teio had bought them separately and managed to put them together into a single charm. Coincidentally, it just so happened that the Teio charm happened to be hugging McQueen.

“Do you like it?” Teio asked with her hands behind her back.

“Teio… I love it!” McQueen beamed. “It's adorable!”

“Hehehe… I'm glad.”

“Can I… hug you?” McQueen asked sheepishly.

Teio shot a smile at McQueen and spread her arms towards her friend. McQueen returned the smile and approached her, slowly snaking her arms around Teio's torso and the shorter girl did the same. Teio felt her heart flutter as McQueen's warmth seeped into her.

“This feels nice.” McQueen commented.

“It does.”

The two stood in silence, forgetting the world around them. The breeze was soft and the evening was quiet.

“Hey, lovebirds!” Gold Ship's voice was heard. “Are you two going to… Ow!”

“Oh, my…” McQueen said, looking away and cacthing Gold Ship being elbowed.

“Hehe… We should go.” Teio suggested, allowing McQueen to detach herself from her.

The two began walking again, side by side. The walk to the dorms was short, too short in Teio's opinion. The group separated as they reached the Ritto dorm, each girl going to their own rooms. Teio entered her room, spotting Mayano dressed in her pyjamas and reading manga on top of her bed.

“You're back!” The girl commented. “Did you give it to her?”

“Yeah…” Teio said dreamily.

“Did she like it?” Mayano asked, her interest increased.

“She did.” Teio told her, her smile widening.

“Oh, oh! How was it? Did she…”

“Maya, I have a race tomorrow…” Teio said with a small chuckle.

“Oh, right!” The other said. “Do you want me to turn off the lights?”

“I'll just take a bath first, okay?”

“Mmhmm! Sure thing!”

Teio placed her bag on her bed and picked up more comfortable clothes before she went to bed and went to the bathroom. She looked at her reflection on the mirror out of curiosity and noted that she was blushing.

‘McQueen is making me start to act different. I wonder why? Did something change between us?’

She took a deep sigh and shifted her thoughts to the Osaka Hai. Her reflection quickly shifted onto a determined look as she began thinking about the upcoming race.

‘I don't care who I am facing. I won't let Oguri Cap defeat me! I'll show her what I am capable of!’

Teio took a deep breath as she felt herself getting more confident.

‘The Osaka Hai is mine!’

Chapter Text

The day of the Osaka Hai had finally arrived and Teio couldn't have felt any better. Despite the looming pressure caused by the opponents she would face, she managed to get adequate rest. She was in her changing room still in her school uniform, her bag on the floor next to her. She still had a while until it was her turn to race, but she would have to step onto the paddock soon, so she decided to get ready early to have time to mentally prepare for the race. While the changing room was close to the stands, it being underground allowed it to be quiet. Even so, Teio could feel some slight vibrations for the smaller races happening before the big one.

‘Alright.’ She thought to herself. ‘I need to watch for Seiun Sky in the first half. I don't know what she'll do, but she'll try to trick me somehow. I can't forget Rice and Natie either. Finally, there's her…’

The biggest threat to Teio was Oguri Cap. While the others would surely give Teio a hard time, the one that had the biggest chance of winning was no other than the one her fans called “The Beast”. While Teio was one of the favourites to win, she was the second one, only surpassed by Oguri Cap herself. If she managed to control her race until the end, then she found it very likely that it would be a battle of wills at the homestretch between the two of them.

Teio took her outfit from her bag. ‘It's been a while.’ She thought as she gazed upon her signature race-wear. The last time she had used it was at the Arima Kinen. Though she had gotten an alternative outfit just like McQueen, she decided to resort to her original outfit at the Grand Prix and she decided to continue using it. She quickly changed between her uniform and the race-wear and began to inspect her cleats. ‘All good!’ Just as she finished, she heard a knock on the door.

“Come in!” She said.

The door opened and from it emerged Symboli Rudolf.

“Hello, Teio!”

“Oh! It's you, prez!”

“I came to check on you.” Rudolf told her. “How do you fell?”

“Just a bit nervous.” Teio admitted. “But I feel confident! I just need to run like I usually do!”

“That's what I want to hear!” The council-president said proudly. “And what about yesterday? Did McQueen like your gift?”

“Yup! She liked it a lot!” She told her. “Thank you for helping me!”

“You're welcome, Teio.” The other girl said. “You got ready early. There's still some time before you step onto the paddock.”

“I know. I wanted to get some time to think.”

“You're still worried about Oguri Cap, aren't you?” Rudolf asked.

“Yeah…” Teio said. “But it's not like worrying will help me. Besides, there are the other girls, too. I can't just focus on one.”

“You've grown up a lot, Teio.”

“Hmmm? What do you mean?” Teio asked.

“Before you just seemed someone trying to achieve greatness, but without much beyond that.” Rudolf began. “Following after me, the classics, racing McQueen… You clearly had a lot of objectives, but also faced many bumps and couldn't achieve any of them. I watched you struggle through it all and you still rose above all of it. Now I see a girl that regardless of what will happen she'll race her heart out in every race she races. You're not just someone that can race fast. You created your own legacy, one that others will soon follow.”

“Prez… Heheh… I'll make sure I'll live up to that!”

“I'm sure you will.” Rudolf told her. “I'll leave you for now. Give me a race that will make me want to join in!”

“Hehehe… I will!”

Rudolf left the room, leaving Teio alone once again. ‘Prez really means what she said, doesn't she… Hehehe… It feels nice, but it also gives me a bit of pressure.’ She looked at herself in the mirror, watching her reflection. ‘She's right, though. I really changed a lot. Thanks to McQueen…’

Teio began to grow bored, so she picked up her phone and began cycling through some social media posts on her phone. She even stumbled upon a news report from the States where Suzuka had won a race. She made a mental note to tell Special Week, but then thought that the girl would've already seen it due to how close she was with her roommate. Teio managed to distract herself enough that the time to get ready seemed to arrive quicker.

“Alright, let's go!” She said out loud.

She stepped out of the room and notice some of her rivals leaving their rooms as well. She glanced at the runners until she recognised one close to her.

“Hey, Natie!”

The girl's ears twitched, and she looked back to the source of the voice. “Ah, it's you, Teio!”

“I haven't seen you in a while!” Teio said. “Are you ready?”

“Well, I need to, don't I?” Teio's friend, Nice Nature said. “Everyone has been talking about the Monarch and the Beast. I'm just a side character…”

“Hey, don't beat yourself up!” Teio scolded. “The race hasn't even started!”

“You're as sparkly as ever. Well, I just have to give it my all and see how it'll all go. Maybe I can even place well”

“That's better!”

“Oya?” A voice behind them called. “It's you again!”

Teio looked behind her, spotting Seiun Sky right behind her.

“It's you from the other day!”

“Hehe, you remember me!” Seiun Sky noted. “Don't pay too much attention to me, okay? Or do. Maybe I'll take you more seriously depending on how you race.”

‘She really is just like Spe said she was. I can't get a read on her.’

“They'll be calling us to the paddocks soon.” Nice Nature told them. “We should get ready.”

The three girls began making way towards the paddock, other racers joining them. Teio spotted Oguri cap, but the girl didn't notice her back. Teio would be running near the outer edge at bracket number 14, while Seiun Sky would be at the outermost bracket, number 16. Oguri Cap would be at number 9, with Nice Nature and Rice Shower somewhat close. The racers began being called by the announcer by their bracket number. Teio was one of the last, so she had to wait a while.

“So, Teio.” She heard Seiun Sky's voice call out again. “That girl that was with you… McQueen, I think was her name. Are you two close?”

“Hmmm? Yeah, why?” She asked in confusion.

“Well, Spe has been talking about you a lot.” The girl told her. “Apparently she spoke with Suzuka about something and she has been paying a lot of attention to you two. Honestly, I don't know what she's on about, but I got curious, you know?”

“That's odd.” Teio noted. “But I don't know what she's talking about.”

“Well, it's not like I'm going to butt myself into it. I was just curious.” Seiun Sky said, putting her arms behind her head. “Sorry for bothering you.”

Just as the two finished talking the girl running at bracket 13 returned.

“You're up next, right?” Seiun Sky commented. “See ya later!”

“Oh, you're right! Bye!”

Teio began making her way towards the paddock, spotting the closed curtains.

“Now, on bracket number 14!” She head the announcer's voice. “The second favourite of this race, it's The Monarch, Tokai Teio!”

Teio stood sideways just as the curtains opened. She began walking towards the edge of the paddock as the crowd cheered for her arrival. As she got in full view, she grabbed her cape and threw it, making the crowd clap and cheer louder. She looked to the side as spotted her team along with their trainer. She shot them a smile before picking up her cape and returning to the tunnel. She passed by Seiun Sky again, following the other runners that were making their way to the course. She spotted a patch of long black hair which she recognised as another of her friends, Rice Shower. She jogged slightly to catch up, her steps echoing in the tunnel, which caught the girl's attention.

“Hey, Rice!”

“A-ah… Teio!” The other girl smiled.

“I saw you training yesterday! Are you ready?”

“Y-yes!” Rice Shower said, growing determined. “I hope we all race our best!”

“That's the spirit!”

The two kept walking slowly, the tunnel stretching ahead of them.

“T-Teio… Can I ask you something?”

“Yeah, sure!”

“Do you and McQueen… Are you two… Uh…” The girl tried, but failed, her face growing redder with each of her words.

“What is it?”

“W-well… I was wondering… A-ah… never mind!”

Teio looked in confusion, but decided not to press her friend. She knew that the girl could get flustered easily, so she pushed it to the back of her mind. ‘I wonder what it was all about… Though… that's the second time someone asks me about me and McQueen… if you don't count when the girls did the sack thing. Weird…’

She looked ahead of her, checking the other runners. She saw Nice Nature again by herself and further ahead was Oguri Cap. The other girl didn't seem to notice her earlier and Teio was beginning to wonder if she was ignoring her, or was just focused. Finally after a while, faint sunlight could be seen and Teio finally spotted the end of the tunnel. The runners ahead began to turn into the exit and the noise of the crowd, though muffled, was beginning to get louder and louder. After what felt like an eternity, it was finally Teio's turn to step onto the ramp leading outside and she could now hear the crowd clearly. As expected of a G1, the stands were full, but the line up of the racers also played a role in it. The Osaka Hai was the first crown of the Spring Triple Crown, and as such, it was a big event.

“Tokai Teio leaves the tunnel!” The announcer said. “It's her first G1 race after her miracle at the Arima Kinen! She won the Kyoto Kinen and is now trying her hand at the first Crown of the Spring Races!”

The crowd erupted into cheers as Teio appeared from the tunnel. She stepped onto the track, feeling the turf under her feet. She found a spot and began stretching her limbs and loosening her muscles before the race. The announcer commented as the remaining two racers, one of them being Seiun Sky stepped onto the track as well. As she did her routine before the race, she heard steps next to her.

“Tokai Teio?”

She looked to her side and spotted white hair from where the voice came. The beast herself had come to greet her.

“Oh, Oguri!”

“I'm looking forward to race you. I hope we both do our best!”

Oguri stretched her hand towards Teio. Teio approached her, looking slightly upwards to meet her gaze and shook her hand. Immediately she felt a chill going down her spine. She kept her cool, but it took everything in her not to start shaking in place. The other girl let go of her hand, nodding at Teio and walking away.

‘What was that?’

Teio shook her head, trying not to dwell on what happened. She looked towards the stands instead, searching among the crow. The stands were full and there wasn't a lot of space free for the fans to move. Finally, among them she found the person she was looking for. Immediately, her body felt lighter and she approached her. Though her other teammates were present as well, Teio was focused only on McQueen.

“Alright, everyone, drum rolls please!” Gold Ship shouted. “The Monarch graces us with her presence!”

“How are you doing, Teio?” The trainer asked, making Teio look away from McQueen.

“I'm doing well. There's no point in worrying when the race hasn't even started.”

“Don't let Sei distract you!” Special Week warned.

“I know, Spe, don't worry!” Teio chuckled.

“I'm looking forward to watch you race, Teio!” McQueen told her. “I want to see just how much you have improved.”

“Fufufu… You better pay attention, then! I'll show you a race you can't afford to miss!”

“I wouldn't expect any less from you. You make me proud both as a rival and a friend.”

Teio's eyes widened at her friend. She was quickly distracted from it, however as the sound of horns was heard. The fanfare for the Osaka Hai was now being played.

“Well, I guess I should go!” Teio said, spotting the other runners beginning to approach the gates. “Wish me luck!”

Teio began walking towards the gates. She heard her friends cheering for her in the distance. Quickly she found the number 14 and walked towards it.

“Ugh, I hate this…” A voice said.

Teio looked towards her left and spotted Seiun Sky looking dejectedly at the gates.

“What's wrong?” Teio asked the girl.

“I hate tight spaces… Why do we have to begin in a gate?” The girl complained. “Can't they make something more comfortable?”

‘Right, Spe said she was a bit claustrophobic. That sounds rough.’

Teio entered her gate, hearing it be closed behind her.

“Do I really have to? It looks even narrower this time!” She heard Seiun Sky comment to one of the officials that was gently guiding her towards her own gate at the very end. Teio looked at her awkwardly as the green-haired girl tried her best to find comfort in the narrow space.

Teio looked toward the inner gates. She spotted her friends and somewhere in the middle, Oguri Cap. She stole on last glance at the white-haired girl and at the same time, her rival did the same. They shot glares at each other before they returned their gazes to the front and leant forward in anticipation.

‘Let's do this!’

Almost as if on cue, the click of the gates was heard and Teio propelled herself out of the gate. The air was filled with the sound of footsteps as they all began to pick up speed, the wind blowing furiously as it increased. Right ahead of them was a slope, right before the goal post, one they would face again at the end.

“A great start for all the runners.” The announcer's voice rang out. “No late starts. The Osaka Hai has begun! Who will claim victory? Will the Monarch slay the Beast, or will the Beast claim the Monrach with their fangs?”

As the announcer commented on the battle before the two favourites, Teio spotted a green spot moving ahead to her left, taking the front most position. Another girl to her right seemed to follow the same tactic, but choosing to stay slightly behind.

“Seiun Sky takes the lead as expected! Right behind is Sweet Caramel!”

Teio took notice of Seiun Sky's position and began to slightly gain pace. She spotted Nice Nature slightly ahead of her, running at a similar pace.

“The track tilts upwards now! They will pass by the goal post before beginning the turn!”

Teio kept her pace. The slope ahead of her would hinder her pace and if she tried to gain position there she would only tire herself quicker. It being before the goal meant that she would face it twice, so she conserved her stamina until later.

“Tokai Teio keeps pace! Nice Nature is right ahead of her in fourth place! Onto the back Rice Shower is getting pushed closer to the inner rail. Will this position hinder her spurt later?”

The runners began to approach the inner rail slightly as they reached the slope. The pack was now more concentrated and Teio stood right behind Nice Nature, making use of the slipstream.

“Seiun Sky is still in the lead! Sweet Caramel isn't pressuring her. The difference is 2 lengths. Now! In third is Pearly Whites followed by Nice Nature! Tokai Teio is here as well!”

Teio felt her breath beginning to quicken slightly as she cleared the slope. The goal approached quickly and the runners all passed by it.

“The runners are past the goal post! They're entering the first corner! Oh! Rice Shower set herself free! Behind her is Storm Pegasus! The difference between the leader and the trailer is currently 10 leads!”

Teio kept her eyes on Seiun Sky as the girl began making the turn. She stood close to Nice Nature, trying to make use of the slipstream to the best of her ability.

‘I can't stay behind her the whole race. I'll have to go in the front where I feel more comfortable. Natie usually runs a bit farther back anyway.’

As she began feeling the centrifugal force pulling her, Teio let herself start to detach herself from the inner rail. Nice Nature made no move to block her, allowing her to pass.

“Tokai Teio takes fourth from Nice Nature! She seems to be allowing herself to fall behind slightly!”

The sound of the cheers began to subside slightly as they ran through the first corner, approaching the second. Teio looked again at Seiun Sky.

‘She doesn't have a big lead. I wonder if it's on purpose. But I don't need to worry about that I just…’

Suddenly, she felt her body grow cold. She was quickly broken out of her thoughts as she felt something unusual. The footsteps of the runners rang next to her, but among them, something seemed to grab her attention, while the crowd's noise got quieter and quieter.

‘What's this feeling?’

Her mind focused on the presence she felt, ignoring everything else around her as she entered the second corner. The air suddenly felt heavier as the presence of something behind her made itself known. Teio suddenly felt as if she wasn't running a race, but was instead escaping from a predator.

‘Behind me… I feel something… It's almost like a pulse…’

Teio kept running, trying not to disrupt her pace as she focused her sense on the presence felt in the pack. Among the other footsteps, she felt as if a thumping sound was cutting from within them. Finally, her mind connected the pieces and her brows furrowed in concentration.

’It's her!’

————————————————————————

McQueen's face scrunched in concern. She was calmly watching Teio race as she entered the first corner and it seemed that everything was going as expected. Until then, Teio had kept her wits about. She didn't fight for a position early and she used Nice Nature's slipstream right at the slope, which would've helped her conserve some stamina that could be used later. Despite all that, a development suddenly made the purple-haired girl worry as a speck of white suddenly began withdrawing from the pack.

‘Don't focus on her Teio! Just keep running!’

She heard the crowd cheer as the white-haired girl went onto an outer position.

“Oguri Cap takes the outside! She's avoiding the pack!”

The runners entered the second corner. McQueen looked ahead of Teio, seeing Seiun Sky begging to shorten her lead.

“Seiun Sky's lead is now only 1 length! Is she loosing her footing? Sweet Caramel is now close behind her! Pearly Whites is still in third. They've reached the backstretch! In fourth, Tokai Teio! Behind her is Pink Delight! Nice Nature runs behind her followed by Rice Shower!”

“That girl, Seiun Sky…” Vodka began. “Is she losing pace?”

“It could be a tactic.” McQueen explained. “She's a bit of a wildcard. She could very well begin putting distance right before the goal.”

“Sei is a bit like that.” Special Week joined in. “She says she likes when others underestimate her only to surpass expectations.”

“A real trickster…” The trainer commented darkly.

McQueen focused on the race again. Her eyes followed Teio as the approached the halfway point of the backstretch. ‘You're doing well, Teio! Keep going like that! Don't get nervous!’

McQueen looked back again and her body froze.

“Oguri Cap is climbing! She's now in seventh place! Rice Shower passed Nice Nature! Let's return to the lead! Seiun Sky is still ahead! Her lead is still 1 length! Sweet Caramel is still here! Then Pearly Whites! She's losing Sweet Caramel! Tokai Teio might take third! The backstretch is almost over! Behind Tokai Teio is still Pink Delight. Then Rice… Oh!”

McQueen furrowed her brows as the crowd kept cheering louder.

“Oguri Cap passed Rice Shower! She's in sixth… No! She passed Pink Delight! Oguri Cap is on Tokai Teio's heels!”

McQueen heard her teammates gasp.

“She's right behind her!” Scarlet shouted.

“You can do it, Teio!” Special Week screamed.

“Kick her butt!” Gold Ship shouted, solving a Rubik’s cube.

McQueen took a side glance to the course ahead, then back at Teio. Close behind her was Oguri Cap. She couldn't see it, but she was almost certain that Teio was feeling the presence right behind her, threatening to overtake. ‘Don't let it get to you, Teio!’ Her body began to shiver as she gripped the cold rail ahead of her. Her knuckles turned white from the force she was exerting as the runners were reaching the end of the backstretch.

“Seiun Sky is increasing the lead again! Sweet Caramel keeps the pace. Pearly Whites is falling behind! Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap passed her! Let's check the placing again! First Seiun Sky! In second Sweet Caramel. Then Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap hot on her heels! Then Rice Shower! Pearly Whites fell into sixth! Then, Nice Nature! Pink Delight fell onto eight place!”

McQueen felt her heart thundering in her chest as the runners lead by Seiun Sky entered the third corner. The race was reaching its climax with Teio in a delicate position. She watched as her friend was ruthlessly chased by Oguri Cap, the white-haired girl refusing to let Teio go, getting even closer to her.

“They entered the third corner! Seiun Sky! 3 Lengths! Sweet Caramel is loosing pace! Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap! Rice Shower is losing fifth to Nice Nature! Here's the last corner! Hanshin is shaking! Seiun Sky keeps pace! Then… Oh! What is this?”

McQueen's eyes widened in shock. Among the crowd was a mix of confusion and awe followed by a thunderous roar.

“Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap spurt at the same time! Sweet Caramel drops to fourth!” Seiun Sky lead is only 2 lengths! They're reaching the homestretch! Nice Nature presses on! Rice Shower is here too!”

McQueen leaned forward as she watched Teio. The short girl was now beginning to accelerate and Oguri was right next to her. Oguri had taken the inner position and the two were so close that their shoulders were on the verge of colliding. McQueen stood in place, unable to move as she watched the runners entering the homestretch.

“Seiun Sky speeds up! The track here goes down before the Nigawa slope! Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap are still behind her! Nice Nature is pursing! Rice Shower is now right behind her!”

As the runners entered the homestretch, the track sloped downward. It would soon be followed by a stretch of levelled turf and would again slope upwards. As McQueen focused on Teio, she spotted Seiun Sky accelerating on the downhill section, but McQueen noticed she made a mistake right as she did so.

“Seiun Sky slows down after a sudden burst! The Nigawa Slope is right ahead of her! Seiun Sky presses on… Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap! The Monarch and the Beast! Seiun Sky falls to third! Nice Nature is still here! 400 meters remain! Who will win? The Monarch, or the Beast?”

McQueen gazed over the Nigawa slope. Teio and Oguri thundered across the turf approaching the 200 meter mark. The two were running right next to each other, neither refusing to give up the position. Pieces of turf were being thrown across the track. The pack ran behind them, but not close enough to challenge them. Teio pressed on and Oguri matched. The slope presented itself right ahead of them as Seiun Sky began loosing her footing to Nice Nature.

“The Nigawa slope is here! Tokai Teio! Oguri Cap! They're side by side! Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap! The Monarch that made a miracle! The ruthless Beast! Tokai Teio! Oguri Cap! Neither is giving up!”

The crowd shouted and cheered at the top of their lungs. Neither girls refused the position to the other. They were reaching the end of the slope as the positions remained. McQueen saw their heads emerging from the slope, hair blowing with the wind. Their legs marched furiously as they reached the end of the slope, the goal entering their sights.

“Tokai Teio and Oguri Cap! Will this be a photo-finish? Side by side! Tokai Teio! Oguri Cap! Tokai Teio! Oguri Cap!”

The announcer shouted the girls' names and the crowd kept cheering for the whole duration. McQueen watched as the two grew near the goal. Either of them could falter at any moment and McQueen knew it. She gripped the rail hard with one hand and gritted her teeth. She inhaled as much as she could. Slowly she raised her free hand closed in a fist and pumped it into the air.

“Run, Teio!”

The two girls were fast approaching the goal passing the 100 meters mark. Their bodies appeared to be on the verge of colliding. McQueen refused to turn away. She couldn't. Her vocal chords were strained from her scream. She watched as the two rivals kept running. Suddenly, her eyes widened and a thunderous cheer deafened her hearing.

“Tokai Teio! Tokai Teio inches forward! It's Tokai Teio! Oguri Cap is behind her! Tokai Teio! Tokai Teio! The Monarch slays the beast!”

Finally the two crossed the goal, with Teio slightly ahead. The crowd cheered as the race came to an end, the other girls crossing the goal after the other two. McQueen felt her body shake as she slowly eased her grip on the rail. She watched Teio beginning to slow down. McQueen felt her body lose its weight and her lips moved into a smile. McQueen shuddered, the adrenaline still high in her body.

“What an amazing display!” The announcer shouted. “Tokai Teio won by a neck! and takes the first crown of this Spring!” In third is Nice Nature followed by Seiun Sky! Fifth place is Rice Shower!”

To her side McQueen heard people shouting Teio's name, a chant that had became common practice upon her victories.

“She did it!” Gold Ship shouted. “She did it!”

“That was close!” Vodka commented.

“I thought I was going to throw up from the stress!” Scarlet told them.

“Gross.” Gold Ship deadpanned.

“Hey!”

McQueen smiled at her teammates. ‘She really did it!’

She looked back to the track and spotted Teio approaching, some of the nearby fans cheering for her loudly. Her face quickly lit up.

“Did you watch me?” Teio asked her team.

“That was unreal!” Vodka told her. “You actually beat her! It was very close, too!”

“I could barely stay still!” Special Week said. “You two were running so close!”

“McQueen even shouted for you!” Gold Ship commented. “Can you believe it?”

“She did?” Teio asked as she looked in surprise at McQueen.

“Well…” McQueen said, looking away and twirling a few locks of her hair. “I got excited.”

“I can see that.” Teio said with a grin. She sighed heavily as her shoulders slumped. “I actually did it.”

“You did well, Teio!” The trainer praised. “That's one of the best races I've seen you run!”

“I think so too!” Another voice joined in behind Teio.

The group looked behind Teio. Behind her was her rival Oguri Cap.

“Oh!”

“You were a formidable opponent!” Oguri praised. “I only ever felt this with Tama and the others. I'm glad I raced you! I really am!”

Teio looked back at Oguri and shot her a earnest smile. “I'm glad I've got to run against you too! We should race again some day!”

“I like that idea!” The white-haired girl told her with a wide grin.

Suddenly a grumbling noise was heard. Oguri looked downwards in surprise and placed her hand against her stomach.

“Sorry… I'm hungry…”

The group laughed as Oguri scratched her face with a finger. The girl then waved at them going to meet with her own friends.

“Alright, girls!” The trainer called. “Since Teio won against Oguri Cap, dinner's on me.” He said, quickly getting everyone's attention. “Just… Don't go overboard, please…”

“We'll try not to, dear trainer.” Gold Ship said. “But we can't promise anything.”

The trainer sighed as the group simply laughed.

“I'll get changed.” Teio told them. “I'll meet you guys later!”

“Alright!” The trainer said. “Let's all meet at entrance!”

“You can go ahead.” McQueen said. “I need to go to the bathroom.”

“Sure. We'll wait at the entrance for you two.”

The crowd began to slowly clear out and Spica followed along. McQueen detached herself from her team and went to the bathroom. The room was empty, and she quickly found an empty sink. She opened the tap and placed her hands together under the stream, collecting water. She splashed it against her face, doing it a few more times. She grabbed a few paper towels and wiped her face, staring at the mirror in front of her.

‘She really did it…’

She smiled softly at herself, the memory still fresh.

‘She's amazing… And I'm in love with her…’

Her heart began to flutter slightly in her chest, making her place her hand onto it.

‘I wonder if she notices it. Maybe she doesn't even think about me that way…No… I can't think like that…’

She stared at her reflection and shook her head.

‘Now's now the time for this.’

She left the bathroom and found her teammates waiting outside. They all waited patiently for Teio who was taking a while to return. The girls engaged in idle chatter as the flow of fans began to subside. Finally the short girl emerged carrying her bag with her.

“I'm here!”

“You sure took your time.” Scarlet noted.

“Hehe… Sorry… Prez came to see me.” Teio told them. “And then I found Rice and Natie after, too.”

“Don't forget we still have your winning live!” The trainer said. “Let's have dinner and then go there.”

“Alrighty!” Teio said. “Let's go!”

The group began walking following their trainer. McQueen felt a gentle pull and found Teio smiling at her. McQueen let herself fall behind with Teio next to her.

“What did you think?” She asked McQueen.

“It was amazing, Teio!” She said proudly. “You really outdid yourself!”

“Hehe… Hearing you praise me feels nice!” The other said.

“Hmmm? Should I do it more, then?”

“Uh… I mean… If you want too…” Teio chuckled. “I might get bashful, though.”

“Ah! Then more of a reason to do it!”

“H-hey!”

“Oh, Teio, you're too easy!” McQueen teased.

“You're lucky I like it.” Teio grumbled.

“So you admit it, then?”

“Only with you.” Teio admitted red in the face.

“I see…” McQueen said with a blush. “I'm glad.”

“Hey, McQueen?” Teio called.

“Yes?”

“I really did it. I beat Oguri Cap!”

“Yes you did.” McQueen said.

“I… I won it for you…”

“For me?” McQueen asked as her eyes opened wide.

“Yeah… You're here still waiting for your turn… But you still helped me win this race. Not only that, but I realised that I only got to this point because of you. You're really special to me. More than just a rival.” Teio said, looking at the floor while walking.

“Teio…”

“But let's not get all mushy now!” The other quickly countered. “I still have the winning live after dinner! Make sure not to stare too much at me, okay?”

“I'll try not to.” McQueen replied.

The two walked next to each other. Even though McQueen couldn't tell if Teio's felt the same as she did, her heart filled with joy in walking right next to her.

‘Please keep walking by my side.’

Chapter Text

McQueen found herself staring out the window of her bedroom. Without warning, heavy rain had fallen the previous night. While it had become less intense overnight, the skies were still grey and the sound of water falling was heard outside of the girl's room. She sat on her desk, leaning her head against her hand. Her ears twitched at some of the noisier raindrops as she watched the trees gently blow with the wind.

‘It's almost like that day.’

The weather reminded McQueen of the day her injury was discovered. She looked at her leg, where the bracer had long been removed. While she wasn't as upset as she was at the start, the memory still brought a bitter taste to her mouth.

‘I wish the Spring Tenno Sho would come quicker. Unfortunately all I can do is wait.’

Her eyes drifted towards her desk where her phone sat screen down. Her frown quickly faded as she spotted a new addition.

‘The charm she gave me really looks nice on my phone.’

She picked up her phone with one hand, holding the charm with the other. Her lips quickly broke into a smile as she looked at how the small Teio seemed to hug the small McQueen next to her.

‘I wonder if she did this on purpose. That girl is quite cheeky sometimes. Not that I hate it.’

Her gaze shifted from her phone to the plushie on her bed and her face fell slightly.

‘She does all these sweet things for me… Does she even feel the same? I can't deny that she goes much farther than anyone else… But maybe that's just the way she is?’

McQueen let out a deep sigh as she slumped into her chair. Suddenly a thought crossed her mind.

‘Grandmother… Would she be able to help me?’

She sat up from her chair and moved towards the door, opening it and leaving her bedroom. It was early afternoon and the halls were empty. Ryan and Palmer had invited her to a board game, but McQueen had declined, wishing to spend some time alone. She quickly found herself in front of the door to where the Mejiro matriarch usually spent her time. She gazed at the door, clutching the hem of her dress.

‘I am already here, might as well just go through with it.’

McQueen took a deep breath and knocked on the door twice.

“Come in!” A voice called.

She gently opened the door and passed through the door.

“It's me, grandmother.”

“McQueen? Do you need something?”

“I'm sorry for disturbing you…” McQueen started. “I was wondering if you could help me with something.”

“Of course, my dear. Is this related to your injury?”

“No. In fact…” The girl said, feeling her face warm up. “I need help with something more… personal.”

“Hmmm.” The matriarch mused. “I'm happy that my own granddaughter is looking for advice in her personal life. You're always so focused on running. I couldn't be more proud of you, but you're a young girl too. What troubles you, dear?”

“You see… I recently found out that…” McQueen attempted, trying to look at her grandmother, but occasionally looking away in embarrassment, gazing at the trophies won by her family. “I have feelings for someone.”

“Feelings you say… I assume you mean of the romantic kind.”

“Yes. Exactly.”

“I am happy that you're telling me this. And how is this romantic interest of yours?”

“She is… How should I put it…”

“It's a she, then?”

McQueen quickly caught herself and felt a sudden panic. “Grandmother, I…”

Her grandmother however only chuckled slightly as she tried to regain control of her breathing.

“Love takes many forms, McQueen. I won't berate you for your preferences.”

“I see… Thank you!”

“This girl…” The elderly woman started. “How does she make you feel? Do you see yourself happy with her?”

“I do.” McQueen told her grandmother. “She isn't the same as my other friends. She goes out of her way just for me and is always trying to make myself feel comfortable around her. She also pushes me to do better everyday. At first we were only rivals in racing, but… I denied it at first, but I fell for her deeply…”

“Yet I feel some uncertainty within you. Is there something that troubles about her?” The lady asked.

McQueen looked away as her heart ached. She took another deep breath before continuing.

“I don't think my feelings are reciprocated.”

There was a pause after her admission. She felt the corner of her eyes growing damp and her throat closing up, but she refused to cry. Her grandmother allowed her to collect herself as she took a few shaky breaths.

“McQueen, my dear… Has this girl given you any signs that she doesn't reciprocate your feelings?”

McQueen looked back at her grandmother, dumbfounded. “I… Grandmother, I do not understand.”

“I don't know this girl as closely as you do, so I can not give you an answer.” The woman told her. “However, until she tells you clearly, you can never assume it to be the truth. Of course, you should not pursue a relationship if the she does not feel the same… That would only drive you two apart…” She paused. “But you should not worry about something you are not sure is the truth. Does that make sense?”

“I…” McQueen began. “Yes… You are right, grandmother.”

“Do not worry, my dear. Love is not as straightforward as everyone thinks. It can feel both elating and painful. It is something you only learn once you experience it yourself. I too was once young and naive, ignorant to the hurdles of love. But I believe you are in the right path, McQueen.”

For the first time since she entered the room, McQueen felt herself begin to smile. Her shoulders dropped in relief at her grandmother's words.

“Thank you, grandmother.” She said with a bow. “While it does not answer all of my questions, it gave me a better perspective.”

“I am glad.” The woman told her. “Before you go, I only have one question.”

“What is it, grandmother?”

“This girl you speak about… Do I know her?”

McQueen flushed slightly, but her smile didn't fade. “Yes, you do.”

“I see…” The woman said warmly. “Well, if that is all you wanted, you can go.”

“Excuse me.” McQueen said, excusing herself and leaving the room.

She closed the door behind her and took a long deep breath.

‘Grandmother is right. Even if I don't know, Teio never gave me any indication that she doesn't feel anything for me. Maybe she never even considered it.’

Feeling calmer, McQueen took a step away from the door.

“Sure took your time.”

McQueen jumped in place squealing from the sudden scare. She look to see who suddenly spoke, finding Palmer watching her.

“P-palmer? How long have you been here?” She asked. “No, forget that… Why are you following me?”

“Well, it wasn't as if I was following you specifically…” Palmer told her. “You said you wanted to stay alone and I just happened to spot you going to see grandmother while I was going to the bathroom, so I got curious.”

“And you decided to wait for me at the door.” The purple-haired girls said flatly.

“You got me there.” Palmer admitted. “But anyway, what was that all about?”

“Nothing.” McQueen said, beginning to walk back to her room.

“Then why are you blushing?”

“I'm not blushing!” She said, feeling the warmth of your cheeks.

“Denying it won't change it, you know?” The other teased.

“It's not important.”

“So why did you speak with grandmother about it?” Palmer asked.

McQueen stopped in her tracks, glaring at Palmer who simply smirked at her.

“Oh! I get it” Palmer suddenly said.

“What did you get?” McQueen asked, narrowing her gaze.

“You have a crush on Teio!”

“W-what?” N-no… How did you know?”

“I didn't, you just told me!” Palmer said with a wide grin.

McQueen's eyes widened in realisation. ‘She tricked me!’

“Hey, hey!” Palmer called. “Don't get all fussy with me! I was just curious. I'm not going to tease you about it… much…”

“Palmer…”

“But seriously, now…” Palmer began, speaking lower. “How long has it been?”

“Well… A few weeks…”

“A few weeks, huh…” The other girl thought out loud. “Was that why you invited her?”

“No, it wasn't.”

“If not… Don't tell me!” Palmer suddenly said. “That's why you were acting all weird! But then the other day… You realised it during that weekend!”

“Y-yes…” McQueen said. “Is that all?”

“Is that all? I barely started!”


“Palmer, please…”

Palmer looked at McQueen briefly and her face broke into a gentle smile.

“Alright, I guess I should leave you to it.” She said. “But if you need anything you can ask me and the others. We're all family.”

McQueen sighed briefly, smiling at the girl.

“Thank you, Palmer.”

“No worries. Well, I'm going, see ya later!”

The two waved at each other and Palmer began walking the opposite direction. McQueen watched her walk away briefly before she two made her way back to her bedroom. She entered it and sat on her bed. She picked up the Teio plushie and placed it on her lap. McQueen looked at it fondly, playing with its ears and giggled to herself.

‘I feel better all of a sudden.’

She leaned back and stared at the ceiling, holding the small Teio in her arms.

‘All I can do for now is believe in myself.’

————————————————————————

Teio was sat in the cafeteria. Her schedule didn't line up well with her teammates, but luckily for her she had received a surprise invitation, so she wouldn't have to eat alone. What she didn't expect however was to be looking at a plate so full that it was almost over her head.

“More than what ya expected, right?” A girl sat diagonally asked.

“And I thought Spe ate a lot…”

To her side, in front of the overfilled plate a girl with white hair was preparing her chopsticks to eat the absurd amount of food in front of her.

“She might eat a lot, but it helps when I accidentally make extra!” A third girl with long brown hair sitting on her side told her.

“Right…” Teio muttered.

“You get used to it.” The other, Tamamo Cross added.

“Still, thank you from inviting me for lunch. Eating alone is boring.”

“Mmmm?” The girl in front of her, Oguri Cap muttered. “You're welcome.” She said with some food already in her mouth.

“I know you two…” Teio started, looking to the girl next to her. “I don't think I've met you, yet, though.”

“I'm Super Creek! I'm friends with Oguri and TamTam!”

“You seem to get along well.” Teio commented.

“Yeah… Creek is always looking out for us even if we ask her not to.” Tamamo said.

“She always gives me her extra.” Oguri told her. “She never lets me go hungry.”

“Of course!” Super Creek said proudly. “An Uma Musume needs to eat to run well.”

“Yeah, ya just want to pamper her.” Tamamo told her friend. “Or everyone, for that matter. Even Taishin can't escape.”

“Oh! You know Taishin?” Teio asked, remembering Narita Taishin, a friend of Winning Ticket and Biwa Hayahide.

“Yes! She's my roommate!” Creek explained. “She acts all grumpy and tough, but I know she likes being spoiled.”

“Hey, Creek!” Tamamo called. “Ya can't just spoil everyone rotten!”

“My, TamTam are you jealous?”

“Huh! As if!”

“You really get along together.” Teio commented.

She heard a small hum in front of her from Oguri Cap.

“So, I heard you're going to race the Takarazuka next, right?” Tamamo asked Teio. “You're racing that girl, Grass Wonder.”

Teio nodded. “Yup!”

“Maruzensky, Ogurin and now her.” Tamamo counted on her fingers. “That's three people they call a ‘beast’. Assuming there aren't more.”

“I think they actually called her Maruzensky's successor.” Teio said as she picked up a small amount of rice. “At least that's what Spe told me.”

“I think Opera O told me something similar.” Oguri told them. “In fact, their generation is highly regarded.”

“Well, it's to be expected.” Teio commented. “I don't know much about King Halo, but I've seen her run and she runs fast! El Condor Pasa with the L’Arc de Triomphe, then Spe won against that French girl and won the Derby, Seiun Sky got the other two crowns of the classics… Then there's Grass who is as tough as all of them.”

“She is a very sweet girl!” Super Creek commented. “But she gets very serious when racing. She reminds me a bit of Oguri.”

“Hmmm?” The white-haired girl murmured.

“By the way, that friend of yours…” Tamamo began. “Is she running in the Spring Tenno Sho again?”

“Oh… No, she isn't.”

“Teio…” Super Creek said, beginning to pat Teio in the head. “Don't feel bad about McQueen. She is a strong girl, she'll be alright.”

“Oh, I know, but…”

Teio looked to her side, spotting Tamamo cross looking at her as if to say ‘I'm sorry.’

‘She wasn't kidding when she said that Creek cares a lot for others.’

“Is her leg still not healed?” Oguri asked Teio. “I haven't heard much about it, but there are rumours saying that she might not race again.”

“Hmph, those idiots don't know what they are saying!”

The other three looked in surprise at Teio, and Super Creek suddenly withdrew her hand from Teio's head.

“They don't know how hard McQueen works and what she has been doing all this time!” She muttered angrily. “She's been pushing herself and her leg is doing great! Her doctor says she's recovering faster than expected and that she might run again this year! She's my rival and no one can speak bad things about her, or else I'm going to kick their butt!”

A sudden silence filled the table. The three girls fell onto Teio, making her withdraw further into her seat sheepishly.

“Wow!” Tamamo commented.

“My, you really care for her!” Super Creek said fondly.

“They are good friends.” Oguri said.

“Sorry, I got a bit mad there.” Teio told them.

“Heh… If someone said something bad about Ogurin I'd probably say something like that and then some.” Tamamo told her.

“It only means you care a lot for her.” Super Creek joined in. “She's lucky to have you!”

Teio allowed herself to smile. “She is, isn't she?”

“But you know…” Tamamo began. “I'm still in shock. For you to beat Ogurin.”

“Actually…” Teio began. “I know that everyone is talking about it… But I don't think that was my best. I feel it was more if a tie.”

The girls looked at her in confusion and Oguri's face softened as Teio spoke.

“Yeah, sure, I popped out at the front at the end and I was happy to win… But it feels different, you know?” She explained. “Prez said I grew up a lot, but I still feel like I have ways to go. I don't think I learned much from winning the Osaka Hai. I only held out until the end. I think Oguri ran much better.”

“Meh, I kind of get what ya mean…” Tamamo said as she placed her elbow on the table an put her chin onto her hand. “You think that if you two raced again, you wouldn't win.”

“Yeah, that's it!” Teio said. “It's not like I lost my self-confidence, or anything, but I feel like I can still race faster. I can't beat McQueen like that.”

“Heh, so in the end it's all because of that girl…”

“You two sound like Oguri and TamTam!” Creek commented. “It’s cute!”

“Oi, Creek! Stop saying stuff like that!” A flushed Tamamo Cross shouted.

Teio chuckled at the sight as she took another bite of her food. “Well, of course I'm happy that I won, but… I think I need more than that. Ah… I hope this doesn't offend, you Oguri!”

“I understand what you mean.” Oguri said. “Tama and Creek also gave me tough times in my races before. Sometimes, even when I won, I still felt like I had to do better to win.”

“Don't worry about that, for now.” Tamamo told Teio. “Even if you don't get everything right now, you can always learn something new.”

“I guess…”

“If you want we can do partner running sometimes!” Oguri suggested, her tail waggling excitedly.

“Hehe… I’ll think about it.”

The group ate and made small talk as the three friends got to know Teio better. They eventually parted ways as they finished and Teio began making their way towards her team's room.

‘Come to think of it, the Spring Tenno Sho is almost here. McQueen's doctor said that he might let McQueen return to normal after it. I hope all goes well.’

She kept walking, remembering her lunch with the three girls.

‘Oguri Cap is nice. Her friends are nice too! I wonder what would happen if Oguri and Spe had an eating contest.’

She thought back to her feeling after the race. At first she was elated, she had beaten Oguri Cap. As the adrenaline went down, it suddenly began to weigh heavily on Teio.

‘Can I really say I won that race? I mean, sure I came first, but I only got first right at the end.’

Teio remembered the next race, the Takarazuka Kinen. The race would happen at the same course as the Osaka Hai, although at a bigger distance.

‘Grass Wonder will be there too… And she's very tough too… I wonder if I can even win against McQueen, like this…’

Teio suddenly felt something beneath her foot. She looked down and grumbled as her shoelaces came undone.

“Ugh, seriously…” She said out loud.

A soft giggle sounded next to her. Teio's ears twitched at the sound.

‘Hmmm? Is that? No, McQueen doesn't quite sound like that.’

Teio looked towards the source and her eyes widened in recognition.

“It's been a while, Teio.”

In front of her a girl with orange hair and wearing green ear muffs stood watching her tie back her shoelace.

“I wanted to surprise everyone, but it seems you found out already.” The girl said with a fond smile.

“Ah!” Teio said, finding herself smiling back. “Suzuka!”

Teio quickly finished tying up her shoe lace and got back up.

“You look well!” She greeted. “Are you back from the States for good?”

“I am!” Suzuka told her. “I expected to come back a bit later, but I think I already achieved what I wanted there.”

“That's great! The others are going to be thrilled. Spe, especially.” She commented.

“Let's go then!” Suzuka urged. “It's been a while since I last saw everyone.”

The two girls walked slowly. They made small talk about Suzuka's stay overseas. Suzuka told Teio about how different the racing environment was compared to Japan and Teio was invested in her friend's stories. Finally the two found themselves in front of the door to their team's room.

“Wait here a bit.” Teio asked her, grinning at her. "I'll have Golshi do a silly introduction."

“Okay.” Suzuka said with a smile.

Teio entered the room, acting as if nothing happened.

“Golshi, I need you!” She said.

“Oh?” The other girl muttered. “What do you need, my friend?”

“I need you to announce someone's entrance.”

“Leave it to me!”

Gold Ship quickly left her bench, walking with only one shoe on, leaving the other where she at. The other members watched with amusement.

“And now, everyone, please give a round of aplause to the amazing person that is about to come through this door!” She said, making exaggerated hand gestures in front of the door. “The one and only…!”

Gold Ship stopped suddenly and leaned in towards Teio.

“Whose entrance am I announcing, by the way?”

“Suzuka”.

“Ahem… Silence Suzuka!” Gold Ship shouted, her eyes widening slightly. “Wait, hold on, who?”

In response to her question, the door opened and from it Suzuka entered the room, flashing a smile at her teammates.

“Hello, everyone!”

The whole team looked at the door and gasped at the sudden appearance of Suzuka. Then, loud footsteps echoed and a blur launched itself at the new arrival.

“Suzuka!” Special Week shouted.

Suzuka barely had time to react as Special Week suddenly threw herself at her, hugging her tightly.

“You didn't tell me you were coming today!”

Suzuka giggled at her roommate. “I said I wanted it to be a surprise, remember?”

“Suzuka! You meanie!” The girl said, a few tears forming in the corner of her eyes.

Special Week went back to hugging Suzuka, while the latter returned the gesture and patted the girl in the back.

“A heartfelt reunion, don't you think?” A voice next to Teio commented.

Teio looked to her side and found McQueen next to her already in her tracksuit.

“You tell me.”

“If I do indeed go back to normal after the Spring Tenno Sho…” McQueen started. “Spica will be as it was again before.”

“Well, in a way.” Teio said. “But we're not the same Spica that we were before.”

“You're right. We all grew a lot, didn't we?”

“We did.”

“By the way, Suzuka.” Gold Ship's voice rang out. “Does the trainer know you're here?”

“I haven't told anyone except the council-president, so no.”

“Heh… That gives me an idea.”

The team waited until Teio and Suzuka changed into their tracksuits and headed out to the training grounds. They walked in formation with Suzuka in the middle behind Gold Ship. While she couldn't be seen from the front, that didn't prevent her from being seen from other angles and some girls could be heard commenting about Suzuka's return. Finally, team Spica found their trainer waiting for them.

“Hello, everyone!” The trainer greeted, quickly growing confused at the sight in front of him. “Why are you girls standing like that?”

“Dear trainer!” Gold Ship began. “We present you a sudden arrival that made itself present today in our team! Please give a warm welcome to… Drum rolls please!”

Gold Ship walked away from her spot revealing the girl behind her. The trainer that was rolling a lollipop in his mouth almost choked on it from shock.

“Suzuka?” He asked. “When did you…?”

“I arrived this morning.” She told him. “I'm sorry for not warning you, but I wanted to surprise everyone.”

“No, don't worry… It's good to see you back! Does that mean that you're back for good? I thought you would come back in the Summer.”

“That was the plan yes, but… I'm satisfied with what I learned overseas. There's still more I want to achieve in the Twinkle Series. Once again, I apologise for not telling you earlier.”

“I see…” The trainer mused, processing her words. “In any case, I'm glad to have you back.”

“Trainer!” Special Week suddenly called. “I want to run with Suzuka like McQueen and Teio have!”

“Spe, that was because of McQueen's injury and only when Teio had a race.” He explained to the girl.

“Ah… but…”

“Don't worry, Spe.” Suzuka reassured. “We have all the time in the world.”

“I… Yes, you're right!” Special Week suddenly perked up.

“Alright, girls! Begin your warm ups then meet me here once you're done.”

“Yes, trainer!” The girls said in unison.

The team all headed out to the turf, jogging at a slow pace. Teio let herself fall behind and McQueen followed her. Special Week and Suzuka did the opposite.

“Don't they remind you of someone?” McQueen asked Teio.

“Hehe… I wonder who…”

The two girls giggled, watching Special Week and Suzuka as they chatted away.

“Spe must've really missed her.” Teio mused. “I mean, we all did, but…”

“I know what you mean, Teio.” The other said. “I would probably feel the same with you.”

“You would?” the shorter girl asked, her face flushing.

“I would! Who would I tease otherwise?”

“Ugh, there you go again!” Teio said, rolling her eyes.

McQueen laughed sweetly at Teio, while she could only shake her head in embarrassment.

“I can't wait until I get to run at full power again.” McQueen said. “It's been so long…”

“Just a little bit more.” Teio told her. “It'll all go well. I believe in you!”

“If you believe in me, then I have nothing to fear.”

“I mean… Just the other day you were doing really well.” Teio said. “If we raced again, I wonder how it would go.”

“I think we'll figure it out soon.”

The team finished their warm ups and returned to their trainer for instructions. As usual, McQueen would be with him while the team would do regular training. The trainer paired them in three pairs and purposely paired them with different partners than they were used to. In the end, Teio ended up paired with Suzuka while they worked on partner running.

“I hope Spe isn't too sad that she doesn't get to run with you.” Teio muttered.

“I'll compensate her by speaking to her when we're back in the dorm.” Suzuka said happily.

“So, now that you're back, what's your plan?” Teio asked.

“I'll speak with our trainer about that later.” The other said. “For now I'm just happy to be back.”

“Honestly, I'm kind of jealous. I never travelled before.”

“I've heard about your win too, Teio! You did great!”

“Well, yeah…” Teio said with a nervous chuckle. “But I'm still not satisfied. I still want to do better so I can…”

“Because of McQueen?”

“Yeah…” The short girl said. “Actually, I want to ask you something.” She said, her face taking a more serious expression. “Spe said you were curious about me and McQueen. Why is that?”

“Oh, that!” Suzuka said, stifling a giggle. “Spe told me that it led to some… Embarrassing moments. I was just curious about you two. Haven't you noticed McQueen acting differently?”

Teio's eyes widened briefly and she recalled McQueen's usual behaviour. “Well, she was wired for a while… She's not like that any more, but…” She said, her face flushing. “She teases and compliments me more often. What's up with that?”

Suzuka giggled once again. “That sounds about right.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“Don't worry about it, Teio, you'll find out eventually. Just don't let McQueen wait too long.”

Before Teio had a chance to retort, Suzuka began doing some light stretches, leaving the short girl confused.

‘Leave McQueen waiting? Waiting for what?’

“By the way, Teio...” Suzuka said, mid-stretch, breaking Teio out of her inner musings. “Do you think you've changed around McQueen?”

“Me? With McQueen?” Teio asked, her ears twitching. “I don't think so… Actually… Maybe?”

Teio looked to the side, trying to remember the past few months. ‘I mean, I've been more worried because of her injury and then those weird days… Am I acting different?’

“You don't need to answer it now.” Suzuka said, once again breaking her out of her thoughts. “What if you try paying more attention to McQueen? Maybe you'll discover something.”

“What do you mean?”

“Maybe you'll get it one day.”

Teio could only stare at her teammate as her confusion only grew further, while the other simply kept smiling to herself. She glanced sideways to where their trainer was with McQueen, just as she was preparing for her exercises. A soft breeze was blowing and Teio focused at how McQueen's hair fluttered gently. For a reason she did not know, Teio could only keep looking at McQueen as the Sun was slowly beginning to set behind the track.

‘She really is beautiful, isn't she?’