Narrator (0:00)

A short message for Grown Ups the new season of mysteries about true histories is here. Max and Molly are back facing off against the Power hungry Pogs, a group determined to rewrite history. With help from Aunt Em and a few surprise guests, they'll travel from Ancient Egypt to 1875 to stop them, using math, history and a whole lot of teamwork. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Hello friends. Want to listen without any ads and enjoy even more bedtime stories? Subscribe to Sleeptype Premium on Apple Podcasts or Supercast. You'll get ad free listening, bonus stories every week and personalized shout outs too. Tap the link in our show notes to join today. Sleep tight, friends. Tina Tortoise had always dreamed of being part of a racing team. After being turned away again and again, she finally got her chance by saving the day for a small team in trouble. Now she's the newest member of Team Jack Flash. And now the adventure continues. Team Tortoise Part 2 Jack took the car out for qualifying and managed to secure 15th place out of 20 teams. Not great, but better than their usual last place position. When he returned to the pit, he was grinning from ear to ear. The car feels different, he told Tina. More balanced in the corners. What did you do? Just a few small adjustments to the suspension while I was fixing the engine, tina admitted. I hope that was ok. Ok? It's brilliant. Jack exclaimed. If we can make a few more tweaks before tomorrow's race, who knows what we might achieve? That evening, Tina stayed late with the team, going over the car's systems and suggesting various improvements. They worked by lantern light, making the most of their limited resources. Miles ordered pizza for everyone, and for the first time, Tina felt like she truly belonged. When she finally trudged home, tired but happy, her parents were waiting up for her. So her mother asked anxiously, how did it go? Tina couldn't contain her smile. I'm the new engineer for Team Jack Flash. I fixed their car when it broke down and they let me join the crew. Her parents gave her a warm hug. I knew you could do it, her father said softly. You just needed someone to see how amazing you already are. The next morning, Tina arrived at the track early, eager to make final preparations for the race. The Team Jack Flash pit area looked different today. They'd hung a small banner with their team name and someone had added and Tina in marker pen beneath it. Miles handed her a crew shirt that was several sizes too big. Sorry we didn't have time to get one in your Size. But you're official now. Tina pulled it on over her shell, not caring that it dragged on the ground. She was part of a real racing team. As the cars lined up on the starting grid, Tina took her position in the pit lane with the rest of the crew. She felt a flutter of nerves as she watched Jack settle into his car. What if her adjustments didn't work? What if she'd made things worse instead of better? The race started with a roar of engines, and Tina watched anxiously as Jack maneuvered through the first few corners. He was holding his position, neither gaining nor losing ground. But as they approached the bumpy section near the old oak tree, the very part of the truck that Tina had adjusted the suspension for, something amazing happened. While other cars visibly struggled with the uneven terrain, Jack's car glided through smoothly, allowing him to overtake two competitors in one swift move. That's it, Jack. Miles shouted into the radio. Tina's adjustments are working. By the halfway point of the race, Jack had moved up to 10th place, better than Team Jack Flash had ever done before. The crew was buzzing with excitement. Then disaster struck. As Jack came in for a scheduled pit stop, Chip noticed a problem with one of the rear tires. The wheel nut is stripped. He called out. We can't get it off. The team froze. A stuck wheel nut could end their race. Every second Jack sat in the pit lane, other cars were zooming past. What do we do? Miles asked, panic in his voice. Tina thought quickly. I need a hammer, some WD40 and that special socket from my toolbox, the one with the notches. The team scrambled to gather what she needed. Working as fast as her tortoise limbs would allow, Tina sprayed the lubricant on the stuck nut, positioned the special socket and gave it a firm tap with the hammer. After a tense moment, the nut began to turn. It's working. She exclaimed. They managed to change the tire, but the delay had cost them dearly. Jack rejoined the race in 16th place, all their hard won progress erased. It's okay, miles reassured the dejected team. We'll get them next time. But Tina wasn't ready to give up. She studied the track map intently, then grabbed the radio. Jack, she said, her voice steady despite her racing heart, I have an idea. The other cars are taking the standard racing line, but there's a different way through the chicane near the pond. If you turn in later and clip the apex at a different angle, you might be able to carry more speed out of the corner. Are you sure? Jack's voice crackled through the Radio. That's not the usual line, trust me. Tina said. Your car's handling is different now. You can do it. There was a pause, then, ok, Tina, I'll try it. The team watched with bated breath as Jack approached the chicane, just as Tina had suggested. He turned in later than the other drivers, took a different line through the corners, and accelerated out with noticeably more speed. It worked. Jack began to gain positions again, one by one, lap after lap. His unorthodox racing line through the chicane was giving him an advantage that the other teams hadn't discovered. By the final lap, he had clawed his way back up to eighth place. Still not a podium finish, but by far the best result Team Jack Flash had ever achieved. As Jack crossed the finish line, the small team erupted in cheers. Miles lifted Tina onto his shoulders and she waved her cap in the air, feeling like she was floating on a cloud of happiness. We did it. Jack shouted as he climbed out of the car. 8th place. Can you believe it? But their celebration was short lived. As they were packing up their equipment, a shadow fell over their pit area. Zach Hare and his team manager stood there, their expressions unreadable. Nice race, Zach said, his tone neutral. That was some interesting driving through the chicane. Thanks, Jack replied cautiously. The Fox team manager stepped forward. We couldn't help but notice the improvements in your car's performance. Quite remarkable, considering your limited resources. Tina felt a chill run down her shell. Were they accusing Team Jack Flash of cheating? It's all Tina, Jack said proudly, pointing to the tortoise. She's our new engineer. Zach and his manager looked down at Tina with surprise. You? The Fox asked. You're the one who came up with those modifications? Tina nodded, trying to stand tall despite feeling very small indeed. To her shock, the Fox broke into a smile. Impressive. Very impressive, in fact. He glanced at Zach, who nodded slightly. We'd like to invite you to join our team, Tina. Our team engineer is leaving after this season, and we need someone with fresh ideas. Someone who thinks differently. Someone like you. Tina's jaw dropped. Team Zach Hare, the favorites to win the championship, wanted her. You'd have a proper salary, of course, the Fox continued. And access to the best equipment. Think about it. This is your chance to join a winning team. Tina looked back at Team Jack Flash. Their weathered tools, their patched up car, their hopeful faces now falling as they realized they might lose their new engineer before they even had a chance to celebrate their best ever result. She took a deep breath. That's very kind of you, Tina said. Politely to the Fox. But I've already found my team. She looked back at Miles, Chip, and Jack, their expressions shifting from worry to relief. Team Jack Flash gave me a chance when no one else would. I couldn't leave them now. The Fox raised an eyebrow. You're turning down Team Zach Hare for them? He gestured dismissively toward the small team. Yes, tina said more confidently now. Because they believed in me first and because I believe in them. The Fox stared at her for a moment, then nodded slowly. Well, if you change your mind, the offer stands until the end of the season. He turned and walked away, Zach following behind him, giving Tina one last curious look. As soon as they were out of earshot, Jack let out a whoop of joy and hugged Tina, lifting her off the ground. You stayed. I can't believe you turned them down. Of course I stayed, tina said, a little embarrassed by all the attention. We're just getting started. Over the next few races, Team Jack Flash continued to improve. With Tina's engineering expertise. They made the most of their limited resources, finding creative solutions to problems that other teams threw money at. Jack's driving became more confident as the car improved and they steadily climbed the standings. Word spread about the tortoise engineer who had transformed Team Jack Flash. Other teams began to watch them more closely, sometimes even copying Tina's innovative solutions. But with each race, Tina kept finding new ways to make their car faster and more reliable. Three races from the end of the season, they achieved the unthinkable. Jack finished in third place, earning Team Jack Flash their first ever podium position. The small team celebrated as if they'd won the championship, spraying each other with water they couldn't afford champagne and taking photos with their humble trophy. As the season finale approached, Team Jack Flash found themselves in fifth place overall, a position no one would have believed possible at the start of the season. Zach Hare's team was still leading the championship, but their advantage had shrunk considerably. The night before the final race, the team gathered at Miles House for a strategy meeting. Thanks to Tina's latest modifications, we have a real shot at a podium finish tomorrow, miles said, spreading the track map on the table. Maybe even second place overall if things go our way. And if Zach's car breaks down, we could even win the championship, jack added with a grin. Tina smiled but shook her head. Their car is too reliable, but we can definitely aim for the podium. Just then there was a knock at the door. When Miles opened it, they were surprised to see the Fox team manager standing there. Sorry to intrude, he said, stepping into the room. But I wanted to speak with Tina before tomorrow's race. The team went quiet, everyone's eyes turning to the tortoise. I've come to renew our offer, the Fox said, addressing Tina directly. We'll give you even more than we offered before. And he hesitated, then continued. We'd like you to start immediately. Tonight, in fact. We've had some issues with our car, and our current engineer can't solve them. The room fell silent. Tina stared at the Fox, then at her teammates. The implication was clear. If she joined Team Zach Hare now, she'd be helping their main competitor right before the championship finale. I appreciate the offer, tina said carefully, but my answer is still no. I'm staying with Team Jack Flash. The Fox's expression hardened. I don't think you understand what's at stake here. This could be your only chance to work with a championship team. People will remember who wins tomorrow, not who came in fifth. Miles stepped forward. I think Tina has made her decision clear. Fine, the Fox said coldly. But don't expect any more offers from us. He turned and left, slamming the door behind him. The team looked at each other in stunned silence for a moment, then Jack burst out laughing. Did you see his face? He couldn't believe you turned him down again. Tina smiled, but she couldn't help wondering if she'd made the right choice. What if this really was her only chance to work with a top team? As if reading her thoughts, Chip put a paw on her shell. You did the right thing, Tina. We're more than just a team. We're a family now. The next morning race day dawned bright and clear. The atmosphere at the track was electric as teams made their final preparations. Team Jack Flash was focused and determined, their modest pit area a hub of activity as they got ready for the most important race of the season. Just as Jack was about to climb into the car, a commotion broke out at Team Zach Hare's pit area. Their car had been pushed back into the garage, and there was a flurry of panicked activity around it. Engine problems, miles reported after checking with the race officials. Sounds serious. They're saying Zach might not even start the race. Jack's eyes widened. That means we could finish fourth in the championship. Maybe even third. Tina was quiet, staring at the Team Zach hair garage, where engineers were frantically working on the blue car with lightning bolts. Tina Miles touched her shoulder. You okay? I think I know what's wrong with their car, she said softly. The team exchanged glances, and Jack prompted. Tina bit her lip. It's probably the fuel pressure regulator. It would explain the symptoms I've been hearing about. So? Chip said. That's their problem, not ours. It's better for us if they don't race. Tina looked down at her feet. But it doesn't seem right. Winning because someone else couldn't even compete. That's not really winning, is it? Miles sighed. Tina, this is racing. Mechanical failures are part of the game. You don't owe them anything. Especially after how that Fox treated you. Tina nodded, but the troubled look didn't leave her face. Finally, she straightened her cap and made a decision. I'll be right back, she said, heading toward Team Zack Hare's garage. Tina, wait. Jack called after her, but she kept going. When she reached the Team Zach Hare garage, the Fox saw her immediately. Come to gloat? He asked bitterly. No, tina said. I came to help. I think I know what's wrong with your car. The Fox looked stunned. You what? Why would you help us? Because racing should be decided on the track, not in the garage, tina replied simply. It's the fuel pressure regulator, isn't it? The Fox's expression confirmed she was right. How did you know? The symptoms match. I can show your mechanics what to do, if you'll let me. The Fox stared at her for a long moment, then nodded. Show them. For the next half hour, Tina worked alongside Team Zach Hare's mechanics, guiding them through the repair. Her small size once again proved advantageous as she could reach into tight spaces to adjust components. When they finally tested the engine, it roared to life perfectly. Thank you, the Fox said quietly as Tina prepared to leave. I misjudged you. Tina smiled. No hard feelings. See you on the track. When she returned to Team Jack Flash, they were all waiting with concerned expressions. You fixed their car, didn't you? Miles asked, though he clearly already knew the answer. Yes, tina admitted. I hope you're not upset. To her surprise, Miles smiled and ruffled the top of her head. That's why you're part of this team, Tina. You've got the biggest heart in racing. Now let's show them what we can do. The race was everything they had hoped for fast, competitive, and thrilling. From start to finish, Jack drove brilliantly, using all of Tina's adjustments and special racing lines to maximize advantage. Zach Hare was equally impressive, pushing his car to the limit in defense of his championship lead. In the end, Team Zach Hare won the race and the championship, with Jack finishing in a remarkable second place, Team Jack Flash's best ever result. As the teams gathered for the podium ceremony, there wasn't a hint of disappointment among Team Jack Flash. They had achieved far more than anyone had believed possible at the start of the season. After the trophies were presented, Zack Hare made his way over to where Team Flash was celebrating. Great race, he said to Jack, extending a paw. You too, jack replied, shaking it. But watch out. Next season we're coming for your title. Zach grinned, then turned to Tina. My team manager wanted me to give you this. He handed her a small envelope. It's a standing offer to join our team next season. But he also said he'd understand if you turned it down again. Your loyalty is impressive. Tina accepted the envelope with a smile. Thank you, but I already have a team. As Zach walked away, Miles put an arm around Tina's shoulders. You know you could take their offer. No one would blame you. You've more than earned the right to work with the best equipment. Tina looked around at Team Jack Flash, at Jack, still buzzing with excitement from his podium finish at Chip, already making notes about improvements for next season at Miles, who had given her a chance when no one else would. I already work with the best, she said firmly, tearing the envelope in half without opening it. Who needs shiny gear when you've got a team like this? That evening, as the sun set over the Woodland Grand Prix track, Team Jack Flash posed for a photo in front of their modest red carpet. Tina stood in the center, her oversized team shirt still dragging on the ground, her face split by the biggest smile imaginable. She might have been the slowest animal in the racing series, but she had found her perfect place in the fastest sport in the Woodland. And as her father said when they finally got home that night, sometimes it's not about how quickly you move. It's about how smart you are when you get there. Tina fell asleep that night dreaming not of driving race cars, but of designing them and of the next season with her team, her family. And that is the end of our story. Good night. Sleep tight.