Start Small, End Big.

Did I Ever Tell You...?

A quiet evening embraced Montreal as Liam and Hope stood overlooking the stunning skyline. Leaning against a guardrail, their faces were illuminated by the soft glow of the city lights as they spoke to each other. Hope's eyes lingered on the skyline, her expression serene.

Hope: It's beautiful, isn't it? The city feels so alive at night.

Liam glanced at Hope, a small smile forming on his face. They had known each other for a good while, and lately, she had been on his mind more than ever. Maybe it meant something. As he mulled over the thought, intrusive ideas crept in. Winning that race had brought clarity: life was too short to hold back. This moment felt perfect, even if his attempts at flirtation were clumsy at best. Liam smirked, glancing at her as he prepared to speak.

Liam: Yeah, it is... Just like you.

Hope blushed slightly, casting a sidelong glance at him. Did he just make a move? No way. Right?

Hope: Smooth, Liam. But seriously, it's nice to be here with you.

Liam's smile faltered as he realized Hope had taken his words as a joke. Maybe it was better that way—his line had been cliché. He nodded, trying to mask his slight embarrassment.

Liam: Yeah, it is.

Hope took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on the skyline. Something about Liam's words, even as a joke, stirred something in her. She liked him. He was the only guy who truly understood her. And if she didn't speak now, she might never get the chance.

Hope: Liam, there's something I've been wanting to talk to you about. It's been on my mind for a while now.

Liam's expression shifted to curiosity as he turned to face her. Was she about to say what he thought she might?

Liam: Qu'est-ce qu'il y a? (What's the matter?)

Hope fidgeted nervously with her fingers. Opening up like this wasn't easy, but she knew she couldn't hold it in any longer.

Hope: I... I've been thinking a lot about us lately. About our friendship and... and how much you mean to me.

Liam listened intently, his heart racing. Was his crush really pouring her feelings out to him? Usually, he was the one getting embarrassed, but this time it seemed like things might actually go well.

Liam: Go on.

Hope's voice softened as she found the courage to speak her heart.

Hope: Liam, I... I care about you. A lot. More than just as a friend. And I've been trying to figure out how to say this, but... I think I might be in love with you.

Liam's eyes widened, touched and surprised by her confession. He took a moment to process her words.

Liam: Wow, Hope. That's... that's a lot to take in.

Hope looked down, suddenly feeling vulnerable. Her emotions fought to break free, but her thoughts warned her to pull back.

Hope: I know. I'm sorry if I've made things awkward.

Liam noticed her downcast expression and reached out, gently tilting her chin up so her eyes met his.

Liam: No, Hope, it's not that. It's just... I need a moment to process this. It's a big step.

Hope nodded, her nerves easing slightly, though she was taken aback by his tender gesture.

Hope: Yeah, I understand. Take all the time you need.

Liam took a deep breath, his eyes shifting to the bright city lights. It was now or never.

Liam: Vous savez (You know), seeing you here tonight, under the stars, it just... it feels right. Winning that race earlier made me realize life's too short to keep hiding how I feel.

Hope's heart raced as she leaned in, her hopes rising. They both knew where this was headed.

Hope: Liam...

He turned to face her fully, his expression earnest.

Liam: Hope, I... I've been feeling the same way. I just didn't know how to tell you.

Hope's face lit up with a radiant smile, her heart pounding in her chest.

Hope: You have?

Liam nodded, gently taking her hand in his. The warmth of her touch brought him an overwhelming sense of peace.

Liam: Ouais (Yeah). And I want you to know, whatever happens next, I'm here for you. Always.

Hope felt a surge of emotion as she squeezed his hand, gratitude shining in her eyes.

Hope: Merci (Thank you), Liam. That means everything to me.

They shared a quiet moment, their hearts racing with uncertainty and possibility. Under the twinkling lights of Montreal, they took a step forward together, knowing that whatever the future held, they would face it side by side. Liam rested his forehead against Hope's, their eyes locking in a shared connection. The city's moonlight and glowing skyline cast a beautiful mix of yellow and blue hues over their faces as they shared a passionate kiss. In that moment, they knew they had found something special. Every racer needed a co-pilot in life, and Liam and Hope had just discovered they were perfect for each other.