Start Small, End Big.

A Real Nemesis

On an empty stretch of road on the outskirts of Montreal, Liam stood beside his Veloster N, revving the engine as he checked for any issues. The faint hum echoed in the stillness until a distinct rumble broke the silence. Arianna pulled up in her customized Chrysler 300 SRT8, its aggressive design making a bold statement under the dim light. Liam eyed the car and gasped, recognizing its rarity. He had heard rumors about her, and now he was certain why she was here.

Liam: Well, well, well. Look who decided to show up.

Arianna stepped out of her car with a commanding presence, locking eyes with Liam.

Arianna: You must be Liam. Heard you've been making waves in the racing scene.

Liam smirked, leaning casually against his car.

Liam: And you must be Arianna, the infamous street racer from Ottawa. Your reputation precedes you.

Arianna circled Liam's car, her steps deliberate and calculated. She took in the hatchback's sleek modifications, recognizing its potential.

Arianna: Not bad. I can tell you've put some serious work into it.

Liam nodded, circling her car in turn, admiration evident in his gaze.

Liam: Same goes for you. That Chrysler is a beast. A crazy car to see on these streets.

Arianna smirked, the corner of her mouth curving upward with pride.

Arianna: She's got a few tricks up her sleeve.

Liam leaned against the Veloster, his tone turning more serious.

Liam: So, what do you say? A race to settle the score?

Arianna pretended to consider his challenge, though she already knew her answer.

Arianna: I don't race just anyone, Liam. But I've been itching for a real challenge.

Liam grinned, his confidence unwavering.

Liam: Then let's make it happen. Tomorrow night, at the old Chemin du Roy. Winner gets bragging rights—and maybe a story to tell.

Arianna chuckled and extended her hand, sealing the deal.

Arianna: Deal. May the best racer win.

Liam shook her hand firmly, his eyes full of determination.

Liam: Bring your A-game, Arianna. I don't plan on losing.

Arianna nodded, her thoughts already racing ahead. She knew this wouldn't be just any street race. This would be a test of everything they had—skill, precision, and nerve. As they parted ways, both Liam and Arianna felt the weight of what lay ahead.

*****

The next evening, under the distant glow of Montreal's city lights, Liam and Arianna faced off at the Chemin du Roy. A crowd had gathered, their anticipation electric as they awaited the clash between these two titans of the street racing world. Liam stepped out of his car, adrenaline coursing through his veins, and approached Arianna.

Liam: Ready for this, Arianna?

Arianna emerged from her car with a determined expression, her voice steady.

Arianna: Always ready, Liam. Let's see what you've got.

Liam took a deep breath, compelled to address the respect he felt for his rival. He didn't want to be seen as arrogant or dismissive—those traits belonged to racers like Jake, not him.

Liam: Look, Arianna, before we start, there's something I want to say.

Arianna raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his sincerity.

Arianna: Go on.

Liam met her gaze, his tone earnest.

Liam: I know we're here to prove who's the better racer, but I want you to know that I respect you. You've earned your reputation, and I admire your skill and determination.

Arianna blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Respect wasn't something she often encountered in this cutthroat world, but she appreciated it nonetheless.

Arianna: Thanks, Liam. I feel the same about you. You've made quite an impression in such a short time.

Liam smiled, feeling a mutual understanding settle between them.

Liam: We both have a lot to prove tonight.

Arianna nodded, the weight of the race pressing on them both.

Arianna: No doubt about it. But no matter who wins, let's keep it respectful. We're competitors, not enemies.

Liam's agreement came quickly, his admiration for her growing.

Liam: Absolutely. Win or lose, I'm glad to have met you.

Arianna offered a rare smile, the tension between them easing slightly.

Arianna: Likewise, Liam. But don't expect me to go easy on you.

With that, the two racers returned to their cars, engines purring like caged beasts. The air was charged with anticipation as the crowd murmured excitedly. This wasn't just a race; it was a defining moment for both Liam and Arianna. As they prepared for the showdown, the respect and camaraderie they shared added an unexpected depth to the rivalry, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.