Start Small, End Big.

Amazing. Just. Amazing.

The cheers of the crowd fill Liam's ears as he exhales in happiness. He never knew he could be such a good racer. Maybe he actually has a chance to make it to the big leagues. For now, though, he needs to focus on honing his skills in the street scene so that, when the time comes, he'll have the upper hand. As Liam basks in the glory, he spots Barrett, smiling and frozen in awe. Deciding to share the moment, Liam walks over to him, still breathless and elated.

Liam: Did you see that, Barrett?! Did you see my time?! Was that a record?!

Barrett grins from ear to ear.

Barrett: I think it was a record, but that's not what matters. Liam, that was incredible! You blew everyone away, me included! You've got talent, kid—real talent, I swear.

Liam's grin widens as he speaks, panting from excitement.

Liam: Thanks, Barrett. I couldn't have done it without you, honestly.

Barrett smirks.

Barrett: Listen, Liam. I've been in this game a long time, and I've gotta say—I haven't seen potential like yours before. Which brings me to something important...

Liam's expression shifts from joy to curiosity.

Liam: Really? What is it?

Barrett: I want to take you under my wing. Train you, teach you everything I know. I see so much potential in you, and I want to be a part of it. You told me you want to make it to the big leagues. Let me help you get there. What do you say?

Liam's eyes widen at the unexpected opportunity.

Liam: Your... apprentice? Seriously?

Barrett nods confidently.

Barrett: Absolutely. 100%. You proved yourself today. I believe you've got exactly what it takes to make it big—and I mean BIG. So, what do you say?

Liam hesitates, thinking deeply. Him, an apprentice? Surely, that would help him reach his dream. With Barrett's experience, he could pick up tricks to secure his future in motorsports. This was exactly the kind of opportunity he'd been waiting for.

Liam (overwhelmed): Yes, Barrett. I'll be your apprentice. Why not? Hehe.

Barrett's face lights up with a smile.

Barrett: Yes! Yes! I'm glad to be your teacher, Liam.

Barrett extends his hand for a handshake, waiting eagerly.

Liam looks at Barrett's hand, smirks, and shakes it firmly, nodding. As the handshake ends, Hope slowly approaches with a smile. Liam notices her and shifts his focus to her as Barrett steps back, giving them space.

Hope: Well, damn good, Liam. By the way, it's tradition for a racer who sets a new record to take a victory lap. And I had an idea...

Liam raises an eyebrow, intrigued.

Liam: Really? Well, crache le morceau (spit it out). (Chuckle)

Hope: Why don't you take me? I could use a lap with a future superstar, (chuckle)

Hope smiles warmly at Liam, her cheeks flushing slightly. Liam matches her smile, his own face reddening a bit.

Liam: I mean... sure. I don't see why not.

Hope: Let's go, then.

The two walk toward Liam's Veloster N. As they slide into the car, Liam looks at Hope.

Liam: Well, qu'en penses-tu (what do you think)?

Hope glances around, inspecting the interior with a smile.

Hope: It's nice. It feels fast, and it's more spacious than I expected, (chuckle)

Liam blushes slightly at her compliment, and Hope smirks at his reaction.

Liam: Well, it is a daily.

Hope chuckles as Liam starts the car, the engine roaring to life. Spectators gather around, still cheering as Liam drives off.

Hope: I've got a stop in mind. I'll tell you when. I want to show you something.

Liam's curiosity is piqued.

Liam: Yeah? Now I'm interested, (chuckle)

Hope smiles at him, gazing out the window.

Hope: You should be. (Chuckle) It's special...