Chapter 81:

Tracy lifted her chin defiantly and retorted, "Why are you so arrogant? Do you speak for everyone in Liverton, or are you just full of hot air?" She flashed her middle finger, a universally recognized gesture of defiance.

Feeling slighted, Lily forced a smile. "Quite bold," she responded. "We'll just have to see."

Elyse, adjusting her new helmet, said coolly, "Enough talk. Let's get on with it."

Clearly annoyed by the confrontation, Lowell donned his helmet and positioned his motorbike at the pre-drawn white line. "Okay, let's start the race."

Jayden called out, stopping Elyse. "Hold on, come here."

She removed her helmet, approached him, and bent down slightly. "What's up, honey?"

"Listen," Jayden cautioned, "I don't want you taking unnecessary risks. If it gets too dangerous, just pull out. Losing the race won't matter. I'll handle the Ruiz family, and Tracy's wedding will go ahead without a hitch." His message was clear: protect herself and be cautious.

Without waiting for a response, she hurried back to her motorcycle, donned her helmet, and rode to the starting line. Jayden, reeling from the shock, touched his cheek where she had kissed him. A delightful numbness spread through him. "Damn, that felt amazing."

From the corner of her eye, Tracy watched Jayden's expression. Noticing the spark in his eyes, she silently looked away, moved by their love.

Meanwhile, Lowell produced a coin. "I'll toss this, and we'll start the race when it lands."

"No problem."

The coin hit the ground, and they sped off like cheetahs, the roar of their engines echoing down the empty road.

As Elyse vanished into the distance, the others waited by the roadside. Tracy, unable to contain her curiosity, asked, "Do you think Elyse will win?"

"Win or lose, it won't change my plans. Your wedding will proceed as scheduled," Jayden assured her.

Taken aback by his certainty, Tracy responded softly, "Thank you."

Racing alongside Lowell, Elyse matched his pace. The mountain road, while not rough, was full of sharp turns. Neither wanted to lose time on the outer edges, so they both hugged the inner circle, pushing their bikes to the limit.

As the race intensified, a collision between Elyse's and Lowell's motorbikes became inevitable. Maintaining stability was key.

Jayden's assurances eased Elyse's pressure; she found joy in the freedom of riding. The race became more about the thrill than the competition.

In contrast, Lowell was burdened by stress. Determined to disrupt Tracy and Shaun's wedding, he pondered ways to make Shaun call it off if he won. His focus wasn't entirely on the race.

During a sharp curve, his distraction caused him to misjudge his speed on the inner circle, leaving him half a meter behind Elyse. He couldn't close the gap.

Elyse, meanwhile, rode flawlessly. Lowell's mistake only widened the distance. Elyse's victory was clear when she crossed the finish line first.

Shocked, Lily blurted out, "That's impossible! How could Lowell lose?"

Ecstatic, Tracy rushed to Elyse's side. "You're incredible! You beat Lowell Ruiz!"

After dismounting, Elyse embraced Tracy. "Beating him was a breeze."

Lowell returned, visibly upset. He threw his helmet to the ground and pointed at Tracy. "Shaun and my sister have been together for three years, since high school. Everyone knows he's devoted to her. Do you honestly think he loves you? Ridiculous!"

Frowning, Elyse pulled Tracy closer. "Don't listen to him. He's just bitter because he lost. You're getting married tomorrow; ignore his nonsense."

Lowell snapped back, "Nonsense, Tracy! I'm warning you against this marriage for your own good. Don't be so ungrateful!" . . .