AN OLD FRIEND

As we walked closer to the race track, the anticipation in the air was palpable, intensified by the setting sun casting a warm golden glow over the futuristic arena. My heart raced with excitement, knowing that soon Ethan and I would be competing in our first official race.

Suddenly, a voice broke through my thoughts, calling out in recognition and disbelief, "Derrick, is that you?"

I turned to see someone unfamiliar to me approaching, his expression a mix of surprise and joy. Dad smiled warmly, extending his hand to shake him firmly. "Hey Mike, yeah, it's me," he replied with a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

Mike shook Dad's hand vigorously, his eyes filled with curiosity. "Wow, Derrick! Where have you been hiding all these years?"

Dad chuckled softly, a hint of mystery in his smile. "Oh, here and there," he answered vaguely, his gaze briefly flickering towards Ethan and me.

Mike followed Dad's glance, his eyes settling on us with interest. "Are these your kids?" he asked, his tone laced with curiosity.

Dad nodded proudly. "Yeah, they are. The elder one isn't here right now," he explained, his voice tinged with a touch of longing.

Mike nodded understandingly. "Ah, they're twins, right?" he remarked, his eyes twinkling with recognition.

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Dad nodded again. "Yeah," he confirmed simply.

Curiosity sparked in Mike's eyes as he continued, "So, what brings you all to the race arena today?"

Dad's smile widened. "My kids here are taking on a challenge. This is their first race, and I thought it'd be safer than letting them race in the woods," he replied with a playful glint in his eye.

Mike chuckled. "Smart move," he agreed. "Well, I won't keep you. I'm actually heading out on a mission myself. We'll catch up another time."

Before leaving, Mike turned back towards us with a warm grin. "Wish you guys good luck! May the best one win!"

"Thanks, MISTER!" Ethan called out cheerfully.

"Just call me Uncle Mike," he replied warmly before walking away.

Once Mike was out of earshot, I turned to Dad with a questioning look. "Who is Uncle Mike to you, Dad?" I asked softly, noticing a flicker of sadness in his eyes.

Dad hesitated briefly before answering, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "Just an old friend of mine," he replied softly, his gaze distant for a moment.

I reached out and gently squeezed Dad's arm. "It's okay, Dad," I reassured him.

Dad managed a smile, trying to lighten the mood. "Don't chicken out, okay?" he teased lightly.

I turned to face him, my expression filled with determination. "No, I won't. I know I'll win," I declared confidently.

Dad chuckled, his heart warmed by my resolve. We shared a moment of laughter, our bond strengthened by shared anticipation and affection.

Meanwhile, Ethan interrupted our moment. "Emma, are you ready? It's about to start!"

I nodded to Dad. "I have to go now, or Ethan will start complaining that I'm late again," I joked.

Dad chuckled. "Alright, go on. Make me proud," he encouraged with a smile.

I hurried to the race line where the holographic board was already displaying instructions for us to prepare. Ethan and I took our stances side by side, exchanging a confident grin. The energy of the race track surrounded us, heightening our excitement and focus.

The holographic board flashed to life, signaling the imminent start of the race. Ethan and I took a deep breath, our minds sharp and ready to tackle our first challenge together.

End of Chapter 19