In The Cockpit

Lylia grew up in the province orphaned and poor, caring for a sick sibling and surviving through sheer grit. With barely any capital, she built a small eatery near the cockpit arena, their only source of income. Her world collapsed when she learned that Raze, the feared district captain, was the creditor of her late parents. To save her home and eatery from demolition, she accepted his cruel offer: marriage as payment for half of the debt. The rest would be paid by serving as a household helper in his home. Known as a strict and ruthless leader in District Abueña, Raze hid a dangerous secret, he was a billionaire tycoon. And when he returned to town, it was at the cockpit arena where he first saw Lylia, the woman destined to become part of his twisted plan. What began as a deal and a game would soon test hearts, would their forced marriage turn real, or leave one of them shattered in the end?

On the day of the World Rally Championship finals, I pressed the accelerator to the floor, ready for the final dash. The next moment, the engine exploded in a deafening roar, and thick smoke instantly filled the cockpit. Flames spread toward the fuel tank. I yanked at the door, desperate to jump out, but the handle wouldn’t budge, and the brakes felt welded in place. In that instant of despair, my husband’s voice came through the comms. “Attention, all teams, no need to rescue her. My wife is the Iron Racer! “For today’s live broadcast challenge, let’s see if she can drive this burning car across the finish line!” His co-commentator, recently recruited onto the team, chimed in with excitement. “Thomas, the sponsor just confirmed! As long as Jane holds on to the end, they’ll increase investment. I can get a permanent spot!” I understood instantly then that the husband on the commentary platform I had supported for years was using my life to pave the way for his mistress. Smoke clawed at my throat. However, I forced down the dizziness and begged, “For the sake of all our years together…” Only for him to cut me off with irritation. “Save your energy for driving. You’re skilled. Just hold on a little longer. Mandy’s promotion depends entirely on you.” The cockpit had become an inferno; my skin searing with every second. I gripped the blistering wheel, steering through the smoke for the last time. This time, my finish line was the commentary platform where the two of them were huddled together.