Start Small, End Big.

The Final Challenger

The cozy, dimly lit restaurant in Montreal buzzes softly with life, but for Liam and Hope, the world seems to fade into the background. They sit at a secluded table, celebrating Liam's achievement of obtaining his racing license. The warmth of their conversation is abruptly interrupted as three shadowy figures approach their table. The air thickens with tension as Liam and Hope exchange uncertain glances. Liam straightens in his chair, his eyes narrowing cautiously.

Liam: Can I help you?

One of the strangers steps forward, his expression stern and unreadable.

Stranger 1: Are you Liam?

Liam nods warily, his instincts on high alert.

Liam: Yeah, that's me. Who are you?

Ignoring the question, the second stranger speaks, his voice low and deliberate.

Stranger 2: We've been instructed to deliver a message.

Hope's grip tightens around Liam's hand, her concern evident. She leans closer, her voice a hushed whisper.

Hope: Liam, what's going on?

Liam glances at her, attempting to remain calm.

Liam: I don't know, Hope. Let's hear them out.

Stranger 1 pulls an envelope from the pocket of his hoodie and holds it out.

Stranger 1: This is for you.

Liam hesitates before taking the envelope, his heartbeat quickening. Breaking the seal, he unfolds the letter inside. The bold, typed words make his stomach churn. He reads aloud:

Liam: "To Liam, the rising star of the racing scene. You have proven yourself worthy of recognition, but one final challenge awaits before you embark on your journey to the professional racing world. Meet Arturo at the abandoned racetrack on the outskirts of Montreal at midnight. He awaits your arrival."

Hope's voice trembles as she processes the message.

Hope: Liam, who's Arturo? And why does he want to meet you at an abandoned racetrack?

Liam frowns, his thoughts racing as fast as the cars he loves.

Liam: I have no idea, but it sounds like he's challenging me to a race.

Stranger 2 smirks, confirming Liam's suspicion.

Stranger 2: That's right. Arturo is a legend in the underground racing world. He's heard about you and wants to put your skills to the test.

Liam feels a mix of apprehension and excitement.

Liam: Why now? Why does Arturo care about racing me?

Stranger 1 shrugs.

Stranger 1: That's not for us to say. All we know is you've been chosen. Whether you accept is up to you.

The two strangers exchange a final glance before turning to leave.

Stranger 2: Arturo won't wait forever. The clock's ticking, Liam.

As the strangers disappear into the night, Liam and Hope are left alone, the weight of the decision bearing down on them. Hope places a reassuring hand on Liam's arm.

Hope: Liam, whatever you decide, I'm with you.

Liam meets her gaze, a flicker of determination lighting his features.

Liam: Thanks, Hope. I think I need to do this. I have to know if I'm ready for the racing world.

The rest of their dinner passes in contemplative silence, the challenge looming large in their minds. But as they leave the restaurant hand in hand, one thing is certain—they'll face whatever comes together.

*****

At the Abandoned Racetrack

Under the pale glow of moonlight, Arturo leans against his GR Corolla, the cool night air brushing against him. The desolate racetrack stretches out before him, a silent stage awaiting its performers. Oliver approaches, concern etched across his face.

Oliver: You know Liam's no joke, right? I've seen him race. He's the real deal.

Arturo's gaze remains fixed on the moon.

Arturo: I've dealt with tougher opponents, Ollie. I've studied Liam's races. I know his weaknesses. All I have to do is exploit them.

Oliver frowns, unconvinced.

Oliver: Still, his Veloster N isn't a pushover. He handles it like a dream.

Arturo chuckles softly.

Arturo: That's true. But I've beaten top racers before, like Arianna and her Chrysler 300. She's Ottawa's best, and I still managed to beat her. Liam's good, but my GR Corolla is faster, lighter, and better tuned. Plus, I've got something he doesn't—experience.

Oliver raises an eyebrow.

Oliver: You sound pretty confident, but you're acting like it's a sure thing. What if he surprises you?

Arturo finally turns to Oliver, his eyes gleaming with resolve.

Arturo: It's not just about the car, Ollie. It's the driver. Liam may be a demon behind the wheel, but I'm an overlord. And overlords always reign supreme.

Oliver smirks at the comparison.

Oliver: Alright, "Overlord." This is shaping up to be one hell of a showdown. The best in Canada versus the best in Alaska. I wouldn't miss it for the world.

As the two men fall into silence, Arturo's confidence burns brightly against the darkness, ready to test his skills against Liam in a battle that promises to be unforgettable.