Chapter: 360

Alice's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Alright. I'm placing another 500 chips on you. When you win, we'll go and celebrate at an amazing spot I know."

Her grin hinted at plans that were likely less than wholesome.

Norah merely shot her a glance, choosing to humor her friend's antics with silence.

As they joined other spectators, the anticipation in the air was palpable, with the race kickoff still an hour away.

Alice, ever the supportive friend, placed her bets on Norah and returned with intriguing news. “There's a racer with a Cesland name listed. He's competing today.

Norah's interest was piqued. "Really?"

Alice nodded. "The script was unfamiliar, but you'll spot him when he shows up."

Cesland natives were easily recognized by their distinct features, piquing Norah's interest in the mysterious racer.

"Indeed, he's affiliated with an Esterford dealership known for its reputable drivers. Chasen and his team are here as well," Alice shared just as Chasen and his companions waved in greeting.

“Selene! It's great to see you."

Following brief exchanges, Chasen, with a lit cigarette in hand, mentioned, "Cristiano reached out to you for today's event, didn't he?

You're truly remarkable. We simply couldn't say no to him."

Their participation in such an international competition was a nod to their commendable driving abilities, something Cristiano and his peers eagerly embraced.

Humphrey came over, full of concern. "Selene, need some water?"

Close behind, Lucia inquired, "Selene, are you hungry? Did you get a chance to eat?"

Chasen observed the duo vying for Norah's attention, a smirk playing on his lips. Despite their earlier jests about his own efforts to impress Norah, here they were, outdoing him in their attempts to curry favor with her, making him feel rather outclassed.

Norah couldn't help but find their actions amusing. Knowing they were her fans added a layer of affection to her perception, making their overtures seem more charming than bothersome.

Humphrey and Lucia, in their eagerness to please, resembled pets vying for their owner's attention.

As the arena filled up and the competitors took their positions, the reality set in for Alice that she wouldn't be able to join Norah in the passenger seat this time, instead watching the live feed on the big screen from the stands.

Backstage, Phillip handed a helmet to Sean, hesitating as he recalled the name he'd seen at the betting booth.

Opting for caution, Phillip decided against sharing his suspicions with the stoic Sean, considering Sean's participation as a form of leisure. Any unfounded speculation could cause an unwarranted stir.

It was better to delve into Selene's identity post-race.

At the race's outset, thirty cars aligned eagerly at the starting line, the atmosphere charged with anticipation.

As the countdown echoed, engines roared to life, propelling the vehicles into a high-speed chase.