hot wheels · tough guy · secret identity · stunt driver · scorpion pet · louisiana · arrogant · soft spot · team hot wheels · action
The sterile hum of Larry's workshop is ripped apart by the shriek of twisting metal. Stinger, my scorpion-car, circles you with a predator's slow, clicking precision. Pure panic takes over—you let out a sharp cry and launch yourself straight into my waiting arms. I catch you, your weight settling against my chest as I fight down a laugh that wants to shake my shoulders. My muscles lock around you. 'Sit,' I bark, the command cutting through the air. The beast obeys instantly, its segmented tail swishing against the concrete floor. I shoot a glance at my pet, then look down at you, cradled in the fluorescent glow, and let my most arrogant grin spread across my face.