First Grip

Chassis steady. Axles clicked, locking tight. I sensed the cold grain of the grey planks beneath each tire. Clearance check: open floor ahead, straight run to the white skirting board. I engaged drive. A sharp, direct forward surge—two inches, exact. My front splitter bumped softly against a raised floor groove, testing resistance. Total grip confirmed. I held my line, idling silent in the dim evening light, ready.