#pitcrewenergy

The garage was supposed to be closed.

Instead, someone left the lights on… and Wells under the hood.

Grease on his forearms. Oil streaked across his cheek. Overalls half-zipped and already ruined from a long afternoon in the pit.

The race car gleamed under the shop lights, freshly tuned, polished, and very thoroughly serviced.

Wells slid out from beneath it on the creeper, wiping his hands on a rag with a slow, satisfied grin.

“Engine’s running smooth now,” he muttered. “Full inspection. Premium treatment. Even gave it a proper lube job.”

Coach leaned against the tool bench behind him, arms folded, taking in the view, Wells sprawled on the concrete, muscles flexing beneath grease and sweat.

“Dedicated work,” Coach said evenly. “You always this thorough in the garage?”

Wells sat up, resting his forearms on his knees, smirk deepening. “Only when the machine’s worth the effort.”

Coach’s eyebrow lifted slightly.

Wells tossed the rag aside and stood, rolling his shoulders, oil-stained and unapologetic.

“Race cars aren’t the only things I like to keep running smooth,” he added casually. “Gotta make sure everything I handle gets the full service.”

Coach gave him a long, assessing look, the kind that lingered.

“Careful,” he said, voice low. “You keep offering premium maintenance like that… and I might start booking regular appointments.”

Wells just grinned. “Shop’s always open for you, Coach.”