Driving Licence
The morning sun bathed Ellicott City in a soft golden glow, bringing with it the promise of a fresh start. For Steven Blake, today was a milestone—one that marked the next step in his journey toward independence. Standing outside the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), he adjusted his backpack and took a deep breath, excitement bubbling within him. Although his system had already granted him an unparalleled understanding of driving mechanics, road rules, and vehicle dynamics, earning his driver's license the traditional way held a unique satisfaction.
As he walked inside, the hum of activity greeted him. Young adults crowded the waiting area, some nervously flipping through road sign pamphlets, while others mimed the motions of parallel parking with their hands. Steven joined the line, observing the energy around him with quiet amusement.
"Steven Blake," an officer called out, scanning the waiting room.
Steven stepped forward confidently, his documents neatly tucked in his hand.
"Alright, Mr. Blake," the officer said, reviewing his paperwork. "You're all set for the written test. Good luck."
Steven was directed to a row of computers where the written exam was held. Sitting down, he adjusted the chair and scanned the screen, taking in the instructions. The questions ranged from basic road signs to intricate traffic scenarios.
[System Analysis: 100% Accuracy Achieved. Predictive Completion Time: 6 minutes.]
Steven smirked at the system's assessment. "Let's aim for that."
With effortless focus, he breezed through the test, his mind processing each question and its nuances with precision. The system occasionally chimed in with subtle nudges, ensuring every response was flawless. Just as the system predicted, Steven completed the exam in just under six minutes.
The officer at the front desk raised an eyebrow as Steven handed over his results. "Wow. Perfect score—and in record time, too. Looks like you're ready for the practical test."
The next phase of the process was the practical test, held in the DMV's parking lot. Steven was assigned a seasoned driving instructor who greeted him with a skeptical glance.
"You're up, Steven. Let's see if you're as good behind the wheel as you are on paper," the instructor said, climbing into the passenger seat of a small sedan.
Steven slid into the driver's seat, adjusting the mirrors and seat with practiced ease. He started the car and smoothly pulled out of the parking spot, his movements precise and controlled. Over the next 20 minutes, Steven demonstrated flawless parallel parking, seamless lane changes, and perfectly timed stops.
As they returned to the starting point, the instructor nodded in approval. "I've been doing this for years, and I don't say this often—but that was perfect. Congratulations, kid. You've earned it."
With his newly minted license in hand, Steven stepped out of the DMV, feeling a sense of accomplishment. The late-morning sun warmed the pavement, and the day felt full of potential. As he made his way to the parking lot, the low growl of powerful engines caught his attention.
Turning toward the sound, Steven saw a group of luxury cars pulling in—each one more extravagant than the last. A Lamborghini Huracán, a Porsche 911, and a McLaren 720S came to a stop, their sleek frames gleaming under the sunlight.
From the McLaren stepped a young man around Steven's age, his designer clothes and cocky grin exuding wealth and confidence. His gaze landed on Steven, and the sight of the license in Steven's hand seemed to pique his interest.
"Just got your license, huh?" the boy asked, strolling over.
Steven nodded, raising an eyebrow. "That's right."
"I'm Ethan Lancaster," the boy said, extending a hand. "And this," he gestured toward the McLaren, "is my baby. Got her for my 18th birthday."
Steven shook Ethan's hand, recognizing the name instantly. The Lancasters were well-known in Maryland's elite circles, their business empire rivaling some of the largest in the region.
"Steven Blake," Steven replied simply.
Ethan's grin widened. "So, Steven Blake, think you can handle a real car?"
Steven chuckled. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Ethan's mischievous glint deepened. "How about a little race? Winner takes… let's make it interesting. If you win, the McLaren is yours. But if I win, you work as my assistant for a month."
The challenge drew the attention of Ethan's friends, who quickly surrounded the two. Their chatter carried a mix of excitement and skepticism.
Steven's mind worked quickly. [System Advisory: Probability of Victory – 92%. Conditions Favorable.]
"Alright," Steven said, his voice steady. "Let's race."
The group drove to a private track on the outskirts of the city, one Ethan's family frequently used for their car meets. The track was a winding circuit, complete with sharp turns, inclines, and long straightaways.
Ethan handed Steven the keys to a Porsche 911 Carrera S, a clear sign that he wasn't taking the race too seriously. "This one's got less power than the McLaren, so it'll be fair," Ethan said with a smirk.
Steven examined the car, his system instantly analyzing its specifications:
[Porsche 911 Carrera S. Horsepower: 443. Torque: 390 lb-ft. Optimal RPMs identified.]
Sliding into the driver's seat, Steven adjusted the mirrors and gripped the wheel, his calm demeanor masking the excitement simmering inside.
The countdown began, Ethan revving the McLaren's engine to taunt Steven.
"Three… two… one… GO!"
The McLaren roared ahead, its powerful engine propelling it down the first straightaway. Steven, however, remained composed, letting the system guide his every move.
[Approaching Corner: Reduce Speed to 60 mph. Optimal Turn Angle: 35 degrees.]
Steven executed the turn with precision, closing the gap between him and Ethan. While Ethan relied purely on power, Steven's approach was strategic, maintaining consistent speed and using the car's handling to his advantage.
As the laps continued, Steven's precision began to wear Ethan down. On the final straightaway, the system chimed:
[Final Stretch: Gradual Acceleration Recommended. Maintain Optimal Speed for Overtake.]
Steven pressed the accelerator, the Porsche surging forward. In the last seconds, he overtook Ethan, crossing the finish line with a flawless maneuver.
Cheers erupted from Ethan's friends, their disbelief evident as they rushed toward the cars.
Ethan climbed out of the McLaren, shaking his head with a mixture of frustration and admiration. "I can't believe it. You actually beat me."
Steven handed Ethan the Porsche's keys. "You put up a good fight," he said diplomatically.
Ethan laughed, extending his hand. "Alright, Steven Blake. A deal's a deal. The McLaren is yours."
Steven hesitated before shaking Ethan's hand. "Thanks, Ethan, but I can't take something so personal. You earned that car—it's your birthday gift. Let's call it a fair race and leave it at that."
Ethan stared at Steven for a moment before breaking into a genuine smile. "You're different, Steven. Most people would've jumped at the chance to take the McLaren."
Steven shrugged. "It's about respect. A car's just a car—but trust and connections? Those matter more."
Ethan's grin widened. "You've got a point. You know, we could use someone like you in our circle. What do you say we hang out sometime?"
"Sounds good," Steven replied. "By the way, what's your plan after high school?"
"MIT," Ethan said, his eyes lighting up. "I want to study Automobile Engineering. Designing cars has been my dream forever."
Steven's interest piqued. "MIT, huh? Looks like we might cross paths there."
As Steven drove home in his BMW, the excitement of the race lingered, but his mind was already on the future. The race had been more than just a test of skill—it had opened the door to a new connection.
Ethan Lancaster wasn't just a rival or a friend; he was a potential ally, someone whose ambition aligned with Steven's own vision.
As the night settled over Ellicott City, Steven couldn't help but feel that the race was a turning point—a reminder that success wasn't just about individual victories but also about the relationships and opportunities that came along the way.