Start Small, End Big.

Listen. And Listen Close

Liam leans on a guardrail in Montreal, gazing out at the skyline. The buildings seem to shift and shimmer, the light playing tricks on his eyes. But soon, he realizes—it's not the buildings themselves. Whatever is next to him is causing the skyline to distort. Liam turns to his right and sees his grandfather standing there, surrounded by a powerful aura.

Liam: Hey, Pops. Visiting me again, huh? Hehe. I figured you would. Your little apprentice made a name for himself, wouldn't you say?

His grandfather smiles warmly, his voice both booming and gentle.

Liam's Grandpa: I guess you did, hehe. I figured you would anyway. I just had a feeling, and you know how my feelings are.

Liam: Hehe, yeah, they always ended up being right. Most of the time.

Liam's Grandpa: There was only one time you beat me, Liam. Hehe. You always had a knack for design. But then again, it was still only once—so props to me.

Liam: Well, you could've said no, you know. You didn't have to go with the color scheme I chose for your 3000GT. Hehe.

Liam's Grandpa: Well, I had a little spark telling me I should do it, so I did. Let me tell you, life is something out of this world sometimes, you know?

Liam: Oh lord, here we go, hehe.

Liam's Grandpa: What? Do you think us old folk don't have knowledge? Besides, you were the only one who ever listened to me anyway. I know I would just go on and on about fate and life and all that, but it was good to know at least someone was listening. Your father never did. So, of course, I went crazy when you did. I can't thank you enough for that, Liam—on my heart.

Liam: Yeah, I guess so. But... I guess you were really the only one I felt inclined to listen to. I'm glad I did, don't get me wrong, but... it was kind of supernatural, you know? Like how I...

Liam's grandfather gives him a curious look.

Liam's Grandpa: What? Knew I was going to die? That wasn't your fault, Liam. I've seen you beat yourself up over it so much. And it just sucks. I hate seeing my little second son sad. Any father would—just like your dad. William is arrogant, believe me, but it's all in good faith for you, Liam. I'm honestly surprised he finally opened up to you about his choices, about your dream to be a racer. And here you are—living that dream. You probably wouldn't be here without your father. I was the same way with him, and I expect you to do the same when you have a kid.

Liam: It's crazy, Pops. I mean, here I am, seventeen, living my dream. Not many people can say that for themselves, you know? But I can.

Liam's grandfather smiles at him.

Liam's Grandpa: Hehe, yeah. But don't let it get to your head. That Logan fellow is right about that. Ego is the worst thing a racer can let control them. I've seen it, Liam. I used to be just like you—going out to all these races, both underground and on the track. You learn a lot from paying close attention. That's why I always told you: the biggest obstacle is yourself.

Liam: I know, Pops. I just wish... I could...

Liam's voice starts to break.

Liam: I just wish... I could be here, living my dream with you. But I can't.

His grandfather smirks.

Liam's Grandpa: Come on, kiddo. I'm always here. You just gotta find me in your heart. I told you I'd always be by your side—and here I am, literally right by your side. I know you miss me. I do, too. But you have to realize something, Liam. I'm always here, no matter what. I practically live inside your skills. I was the one who taught them to you, hehe.

Liam: Hehe, yeah. I miss those days. After school, you'd take me for a drive and show me so much, even though I was just a kid. I understood everything. I thank you for that, Pops. I really do. It just sucks that you can't be here, you know? Physically. In the crowd, watching me race and live out your legacy. I just... wish things could've ended better. I didn't even get to say goodbye to you. I regret that so much. You know how great it would've been if you were still here?

Liam chuckles sadly.

Liam: You could've watched me practice, seen my races, watched me graduate from racing school. After a big race, we could've hung out and eaten your famous lobster rolls while looking out at the track. But I can't have that. It was taken away from me. I know it wasn't my fault, and I shouldn't dwell on it. You told me grief is one of the best teachers, and I have to say—you were absolutely right. I wouldn't be here if I didn't think about you on my lonely nights or whenever I looked at the empty spot in the garage where your 3000GT used to be. The one you painted just for me. You know, the oil stains are still there. Stained into the floor. Reminders of what could've been. Reminders of what... I could've cherished. But I lost it. I lost it.

Liam starts to cry.

Liam: I'm sorry. I just really miss you, Grandpa. You meant a lot to me.

His grandfather places his ghostly hand on Liam's shoulder.

Liam's Grandpa: I miss you too, Liam. I do. Just remember—I'm always in the stands. I'm always next to you. I'm always right here beside you. In spirit. And that's the strongest part of any human being. Now rest up. You've got a big race coming up. I love you. Always have.

Liam's grandfather fades away, rising into the Montreal sky, disappearing into a flock of birds. Liam watches them fly, his heart heavy yet full.

Liam: I love you too.

*****

Later That Night

Liam is seen in bed, sleeping, as a tear rolls down his cheek.