FIX YOU | Ollie Bearman

II

Louise awoke to the gentle jostling of the train as it passed over a section of uneven tracks. She blinked sleepily, momentarily disoriented as she tried to remember where she was. The dim lighting inside the train car and the still-dark sky outside told her it was still night, but she couldn't tell how much time had passed since she drifted off.

She glanced to her side and saw that Amy was still peacefully asleep, her head resting against the back of the seat. The elderly woman's steady breathing was a comforting reminder that she wasn't alone. Louise shifted slightly, careful not to disturb Amy, and then turned her gaze toward the window.

Outside, the world was cloaked in darkness, with only the occasional distant light or silhouette of a building breaking up the landscape. The train sped through small towns and open fields, the scenery a blur as it continued its journey to Monza. Louise's excitement, which had been momentarily subdued by sleep, began to resurface as she remembered where she was headed. The thought of finally being at a Formula One race, of hearing the roar of the engines and feeling the electric atmosphere, made her heart race.

She checked her phone for the time—just past 3 AM. Still a few hours to go before they would arrive. Louise sighed softly and glanced back at Amy, wondering if she should wake her up. But seeing how peaceful Amy looked, she decided against it. Instead, she picked up her book again, hoping to pass the time quietly.

As she read, her thoughts kept drifting back to the race, to the drivers she had followed so closely over the years. She imagined herself in the paddock, surrounded by the sounds and smells of the track, the buzz of activity as teams prepared for the big day. She could almost hear the engines in her mind, feel the anticipation building as the start of the race drew near.

Suddenly, she was jolted out of her daydream by a soft murmur beside her. "Louise...?" Amy's voice was groggy, still thick with sleep.

Louise looked over and smiled. "Yes, Amy?"

"Did we arrive yet?" Amy asked, rubbing her eyes as she tried to orient herself.

"Not yet," Louise replied gently. "We still have a few more hours. Go back to sleep if you want. I'll wake you when we get there."

Amy smiled appreciatively and settled back into her seat. "You're a sweet girl, Louise. I'm glad we met," she murmured before drifting off again.

Louise felt a warmth spread through her chest at Amy's words. She hadn't realized how much she'd needed that simple connection, that reassurance from a stranger. It made her feel more confident, more ready to take on the adventure that awaited her in Monza.

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As the hours passed, the train continued its journey, and the dark night slowly gave way to the soft hues of dawn. Louise watched as the first light of morning began to break over the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. It was a beautiful sight, and it filled her with a sense of hope and excitement.

Eventually, the train began to slow down, the landscape outside becoming more familiar as they approached their destination. Louise felt a flutter of anticipation in her chest as the realization hit her—she was almost there.

"Monza, next stop: Monza," the conductor's voice crackled over the intercom.

Louise gently shook Amy awake, her own excitement bubbling over. "Amy, we're almost there!"

The elderly woman stirred, smiling as she opened her eyes. "Already? My, how time flies when you're in good company," she said warmly.

As the train pulled into the station, Louise felt a rush of adrenaline. She gathered her things, her heart pounding in her chest. This was it—the moment she had dreamed of for so long was finally here.

They disembarked together, stepping onto the platform where the early morning air was crisp and filled with the scent of dew. Louise took a deep breath, savoring the moment. She had made it. She was in Monza, and in just a few hours, she would be at the race.

"Well, Louise, it looks like our journey together ends here," Amy said with a smile. "But I have a feeling your adventure is just beginning."

Louise smiled back, feeling a surge of gratitude. "Thank you, Amy. For everything."

The two women exchanged a final hug before parting ways, Amy heading off toward her own destination while Louise began her walk toward the hotel she had booked. The city was just beginning to wake up, and she could feel the energy in the air—the excitement of race week, the anticipation of what was to come.

As she made her way through the streets of Monza, Louise couldn't help but smile. She was finally here, ready to live out her dream. And as she approached the entrance of the hotel, she knew this was just the beginning of an unforgettable experience.

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A/N

Second chapter! Louise will go explore the city tmrw and the day after before it's getting serious. Any thoughts so far? Also IT'S MY BIRTHDAY TODAY!! yay! - xx, Lilia