Start Small, End Big.

Big News

Liam sat at the kitchen table, bathed in the warm glow of the evening sun streaming through the windows. His mind drifted as the soft murmur of his parents, William and Ava, filled the room while they prepared dinner. The comforting scent of a home-cooked meal lingered in the air, but Liam's thoughts were elsewhere. Barrett entered the kitchen, his usual easygoing demeanor replaced by a seriousness that immediately caught Liam's attention. William and Ava greeted Barrett warmly—they were familiar with him and had welcomed him to join them for dinner. As Barrett stepped into the dining room, Liam looked up, curiosity piqued by his friend's uncharacteristically stern expression.

"Liam, can we talk for a moment?" Barrett asked, his tone grave.

Liam straightened in his chair, his mind racing. What could this be about? A new challenge? News from the street racing scene?

"Sure, Barrett," Liam replied, his voice tinged with curiosity. "What's on your mind?"

Barrett sat across from him, his serious demeanor stirring a small pang of worry in Liam's chest. His friend took a deep breath, as though preparing to deliver life-changing news.

"I have something important to tell you, Liam. Something that could change everything—everything," Barrett said, his voice low but firm.

Liam leaned forward, his full attention locked on Barrett. "What is it? You're making me nervous."

Barrett let the suspense hang in the air for a moment before speaking. "Honda Canada Racing is interested in you, Liam."

Liam's eyes widened in disbelief. For a moment, he sat frozen, the words reverberating in his mind. "What? Are you serious, Barrett?"

Barrett nodded solemnly. "Dead serious. They see potential in you as a racer. But there's a catch."

Liam's heart raced, anticipation swirling with the faintest touch of anxiety. "What catch?" he asked.

Barrett leaned in slightly, his expression unwavering. "You need to get your racing license, Liam."

The words sank in, tempering Liam's excitement with the weight of reality. He glanced over at his parents, who had stopped their cooking and now stood silently, watching him with curiosity and concern.

"So... I have to wait until I get my racing license? Then Honda Canada Racing might consider me?" Liam asked, trying to process the news.

"That's right," Barrett confirmed. "It's a huge opportunity, but it won't come easy. Racing schools here in Canada are some of the toughest. You'll need dedication, focus, and a lot of hard work. But I know you can do it. You've already proven you have the skill, the mindset, and the drive."

Liam's thoughts swirled with the possibilities, imagining himself behind the wheel of a professional race car. The dream felt closer than ever, yet he knew the road ahead would be challenging. He looked up at Barrett, his voice filled with emotion. "This... this is huge, Barrett. I don't even know what to say."

Barrett's expression softened into a proud smile. "Just keep doing what you're doing, Liam. Take your time with the process—don't rush it. Great things come to those who work for them. I believe in you."

As Barrett left the table, Liam turned to his parents, a mix of excitement and nervousness in his eyes. "Mom, Dad... you won't believe what Barrett just told me."

Ava stepped closer, her expression shifting to one of concern and curiosity. "Qu'est-ce que c'est, Liam? (What is it, Liam?) You look like you've seen a ghost."

A wide grin spread across Liam's face, his earlier nervousness giving way to joy. "Honda Canada Racing is interested in me! They think I have potential as a racer."

William and Ava exchanged a look, their faces lighting up with pride. William spoke first, his voice brimming with excitement. "That's incredible, Liam! I always knew you had talent, but this... this is beyond what I imagined."

Ava's eyes glistened as she wiped away a tear. "Oh, Liam... je suis si fier de toi (I'm so proud of you)."

Overwhelmed by their support, Liam stood, pulling his parents into a tight hug. "Thanks, you guys. I couldn't do this without you. Your support means everything to me. I know chasing this dream won't be easy, but Grandpa always said the biggest obstacle to reaching your dreams is yourself. I promise I won't let you down. I love you."

"We love you too, Liam," they said in unison.

Ava added with a smile, "Je suis juste sans voix (I'm just speechless)."

William playfully nudged Liam's shoulder. "Ah, there's my boy. You're sounding like a real Allard now. Grandpa would be proud of you. He always said you had something special. Chase your dreams, Liam, and know we're right behind you."

Liam's heart swelled with gratitude as he took in their words. For the first time, he felt like his dream wasn't just his own—it was shared by those he loved most. In that moment, surrounded by their unwavering encouragement, Liam knew he was ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they'd chase the dream, step by step.