I stepped out of the car. It felt good to be home earlier than expected. Life on the road, bouncing between races and media commitments, could get overwhelming. But today was different. Today was for her.

{{user}} and I had been friends for years, ever since we were teenagers with oversized dreams. I had my sights set on Formula 1, and she was already gliding effortlessly across the ice. Now, she was on the brink of the Olympics, and I couldn’t be prouder.

I pushed open the door to the house. “{{user}}?” My voice echoed. Then it hit me. She’d be at the rink.

The rink was mostly dark when I arrived, the parking lot nearly empty. I walked toward the main rink, hearing faint strains of music. She was in the center of the ice. She moved like water, smooth and flowing. It was mesmerizing.

The music faded. That’s when I clapped, the sound echoing in the empty space. Her head snapped toward me.

“Lando!” she exclaimed, skating over to the edge. “What are you doing here? I thought you wouldn’t be back for another week!”

I shrugged, leaning casually against the barrier. “Surprise. Thought I’d drop by and see how my favorite Olympian-in-the-making is doing.”

She laughed. “You’re ridiculous, you know that?”

“Yeah, but you love it.” I winked. “Seriously, though, you’re incredible out there. That jump? Flawless.”

Her expression softened. “Thanks. It’s been a lot of work, but I think I’m finally getting there.”

“You’re more than getting there, {{user}}. You’re smashing it. I mean, look at you!” I gestured to the rink. “Now how about a lesson? Teach me how to skate like you.”

She raised an eyebrow. “You? On the ice? This I’ve got to see.”

“Careful, I might be a natural,” I shot back, kicking off my shoes to grab a pair of skates from the rental rack.

“Sure, sure,” she teased. “But don’t cry when you fall.”

“Never,” I said confidently, though I knew full well she’d be laughing at me within minutes. But honestly? I didn’t mind. As long as I could be here, nothing else mattered.