Start Small, End Big.

Practice Makes Perfect

Liam is seen on a winding country road on the outskirts of Montreal near Mount Royal. The sun is beginning to set, casting a warm orange glow over the landscape. Trees line the sides of the road, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. Behind the wheel of his sleek 2019 Veloster N coated in matte black, Liam grips the steering wheel tightly, his heart pounding with anticipation. He takes a deep breath and speaks to himself.

Liam: Faisons ça (Let's do this), Liam. You got this. You do.

He presses down on the accelerator, the engine roaring to life as the car shoots forward. The tires squeal against the pavement as Liam navigates the twists and turns of the road with surprising precision. Every curve and bend feels like a dance, his instincts taking over and guiding him effortlessly through the winding path ahead. Despite his limited experience, there's an innate sense of confidence in his movements, as though he was born to race. The wind rushes through the open windows, whipping Liam's hair back as he leans into each turn. His concentration is unshakable, his focus solely on the road ahead. As Liam approaches a sharp corner, his foot presses firmly on the brake pedal, his body tensing as he prepares to execute a perfect drift. The car skids around the bend, tires squealing in protest before regaining traction on the asphalt. With each passing moment, Liam's confidence grows. He pushes the car to its limits, testing his abilities with every twist and turn. The sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the road. Liam's determination only intensifies. He knows that every lap brings him closer to his dream of becoming a professional racer.

Liam (in his head): I can do this. I know I can.

With renewed focus, Liam accelerates into the final stretch, the finish line vivid in his mind. The engine roars as he pushes the car to its limit, crossing the imaginary finish line. He exhales deeply, a smile spreading across his face. As Liam brings the car to a stop, a euphoric sense of accomplishment washes over him. Despite the challenges ahead, one thing is clear: he was born to race.

*****

Liam returns home after his thrill-seeking lap with a new sense of determination and happiness lighting up his face. His parents notice this as they watch Liam head into his room. William, Liam's father, senses that his son has done something out of the ordinary. Being a car enthusiast himself, William recognizes the euphoric glow racers get after a successful lap-it's written all over Liam's face. William gently knocks on the doorway as Liam is seen on his laptop, browsing cars again.

William: Hey, what's up, kiddo? You seem...happy. Like, really happy.

Liam smiles at his dad but decides not to reveal the truth.

Liam: Just a happy day for me today, that's all.

William smirks, knowing his son is hiding something.

William: Come on, Liam. I know the face of an accomplished racer when I see one. You've got it written all over you, bud.

Liam looks at his dad, shocked. How could he tell? William wasn't as car-obsessed as Liam, yet somehow, he'd figured it out.

Liam: Okay, can I trust you?

William: Of course, buddy. What's up?

Liam: Promise you won't get mad? You know Mom would.

William: I only get mad if you really give me a reason, Liam. You know that.

Liam takes a deep breath.

Liam: Okay, so...after work, I had some free time to spare...

William smiles knowingly but decides to tease him.

William: Mhmm...

Liam: ...and I might've had a little fun...

William chuckles.

William: Spit it out, will ya?

Liam: Alright, alright. I took my car for a drive down the country roads by Mount Royal, and...I might've sped a bit. Like, a lot. But! I had a mini race with myself, and...I did really, really well. Almost too good to be true.

William raises an eyebrow.

William: Huh, really? So you're dead serious about this racing dream?

Liam: Absolutely.

William: Alright then, I can see why you wouldn't tell your mom. But I can't be impressed until I know everything. What road were you on?

Liam pauses, thinking back.

Liam: Um, I think it was...Voie Camillien-Houde.

William's eyes widen in surprise.

William: Huh. How fast did you make it to Chemin Remembrance?

Liam smirks.

Liam: One minute and forty-five seconds.

William gasps.

William: Holy...jeez. You were flying. I won't say I'm not mad at you for it-I am-but I'm also damn impressed. That's a tough road, and doing it in under two minutes is...amazing. So yeah, I'll admit, I'm kind of proud of you. Heh, maybe you really do have what it takes.

Liam smiles.

Liam: Thanks, Dad. I know Mom would probably just yell at me.

William chuckles.

William: Oh, she would. But don't mistake my pride for leniency. I don't want you doing that again, ever. But I appreciate your honesty, so I won't punish you. Still, jeez, Liam, that's really impressive. I'm kinda blown away. Anyway, just don't let it happen again, okay? Unless...you tell me first. Got it?

Liam nods, his smile widening.

Liam: Got it.

William: Good. Now get ready for dinner soon. And...good job, kid.

William walks away, muttering to himself.

William (to himself): Holy shi-