Badass in Disguise (Shadow) novel Chapter 91

Chapter 91

I watched as Blake strutted away with his European crew. He glanced back at me with a smirk that screamed

arrogance.

“We will see how the American girl handles real off–road,” he called over his shoulder, his accent thick. “This is not your video game or little street race.”

His friends laughed on cue, like trained seals. Blake continued in rapid German to his team.

“After I win, I’ll make that American bitch pay. She’ll regret humiliating me in front of everyone.”

I kept my face neutral, but mentally noted his words.

Chase fidgeted beside me, watching the Europeans climb into their Land Rover. “That’s a custom Defender,” he whispered. “Cost at least half a million with those modifications.”

“How good is this Jeep for the course?” I asked, tapping the hood of the vehicle we’d arrived in.

“This Rubicon is the best American off–road vehicle money can buy. Borrowed it specifically for tonight – it’s got reinforced suspension and a custom engine tune.”

We pulled up to the starting line, where Blake’s Land Rover was already positioned. Getting out of our Jeep, I couldn’t help but notice how practical our vehicle looked compared to Blake’s flashy Defender with its matte green finish and carbon fiber accents.

Chase’s friends gathered around us, their faces showing clear concern. Chase himself seemed to be having second thoughts as he glanced between me and Blake’s impressive machine.

“Look,” he said quietly, “losing money or face is one thing, but you absolutely cannot go with those guys if we lose. They’re known for being rough with women. If things go south, I’m getting you out of here immediately.”

I raised an eyebrow. “Worried about me?”

“I’m an Astor.” He puffed up his chest slightly. “Can’t let a woman take the fall for this kind of thing.”

“Your chivalry is noted,” I replied dryly, but I appreciated his concern. For all his privilege and swagger, Chase seemed to have a decent moral compass.

A man with a starter pistol took position between the vehicles. Blake revved his engine, the custom exhaust rumbling deeply. I calmly adjusted my seat and mirrors, familiarizing myself with the Jeep’s controls.

“Drivers ready!” the starter called.

Blake’s engine roared again. Mine remained at a steady idle.

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Chapter 91

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The starter raised his arm, but before he could fire, Blake’s Defender lurched forward, racing down the course several meters before the gun even fired.

“That cheating son of a bitch!” Chase shouted as his friends erupted in angry protests.

I said nothing, just pressed the accelerator and shifted gears smoothly. The Jeep responded instantly, and I felt that familiar rush of adrenaline as we shot forward.

The course started with a straight section of gravel before veering into a series of steep hills and mud pits. Blake had a head start, but I caught up quickly, the Jeep’s suspension absorbing the rough terrain better than I expected.

As we approached the first major obstacle–a steep, muddy hill–Blake slowed slightly, choosing his line carefully. I didn’t hesitate, powering through a line most drivers would avoid, using the Jeep’s four–wheel drive to its full

advantage.

“Holy shit!” Chase exclaimed as we pulled alongside Blake’s Defender. “You’re actually catching him!”

I glanced over to see Blake’s shocked expression before I punched the accelerator again, leaving him behind as we

crested the hill. Chase whooped and flipped Blake the middle finger as we passed.

The next section featured a series of deep mud pits. I navigated them with precision, maintaining momentum without losing control. In my rearview mirror, I could see Blake struggling, his expensive vehicle bogging down

where mine had glided through.

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