racing hearts and hockey pucks || Ollie Bearman

Chapter 2: Drinks and Conversations

Sophie fidgeted nervously with her hair as she and Ollie walked to the nearest café. She had never been on a 'date' with someone she had just met, let alone with a professional racecar driver, and she wasn't sure what to expect.

Ollie, however, seemed completely at ease, chatting away about his latest races and sharing funny stories about his experiences on and off the track. Sophie found herself laughing at his jokes and feeling more relaxed as they walked into the café.

They ordered coffee and sat at a small table near the window, enjoying the warmth of the sun as it shone through the glass.

"So, tell me more about ice hockey," Ollie said, taking a sip of his coffee. "I'm always curious to learn more about different sports and the skills required to play them."

Sophie took a deep breath, feeling more confident as she began to talk about her passion for ice hockey. She told him about the years of training and dedication required to become a skilled player, and the exhilaration of scoring a goal or making a great save.

Ollie listened attentively, nodding along and asking thoughtful questions. "It's amazing how much focus and discipline it takes to excel in any sport," he said. "I can relate to that in my racing. Every little detail matters, and you have to be fully present in the moment to make the right decisions."

Sophie was impressed by Ollie's perspective and began to see him in a new light. He wasn't just a famous racecar driver, but also someone who understood the importance of hard work and dedication.

As they finished their drinks, Ollie suggested they go for a walk in the nearby park. Sophie agreed, feeling more relaxed now that they had established a rapport.

They strolled along the path, enjoying the sunshine and the sound of birds chirping. Ollie pointed out the different trees and plants, naming them with ease and sharing interesting facts about their characteristics.

Sophie was impressed by his knowledge and found herself opening up to him more. She told him about her dreams of becoming a professional ice hockey player and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated sport.

Ollie listened with empathy and shared some of his own struggles in the racing world, such as dealing with intense pressure and overcoming setbacks.

"I think what matters most is not giving up on your dreams," he said, looking at Sophie with a smile. "You have a lot of talent and passion, and I have no doubt you can achieve whatever you set your mind to."

Sophie felt her cheeks flush at his words, grateful for his encouragement. She had never felt so comfortable talking to someone so quickly, and it was clear that Ollie had a way of putting people at ease.

As they walked back to the ice rink, Sophie felt a sense of excitement and anticipation. She wasn't sure what would happen next, but she knew that this chance encounter with Ollie had already changed her life in ways she couldn't have imagined.

And as they said goodbye and exchanged numbers, Sophie couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected connection she had made with someone who, just a few hours ago, had been a stranger.