Samantha Towle presents Revved

Lulu Russell (0:00)

I know you're worried, but I'll be fine. I'll be with Uncle John, and it's not like I'm actually getting in the race cars and driving them.

I know, she sighs. It's a worrisome sigh, and I know where it comes from. I know my leaving is hurting her for many reasons, mostly because she's going to miss me, but largely because of where I'm going. It's staring up painful memories for her.

I'm trying not to hurt you, I say softly. I just, I have to do this.

I know.

She kisses my forehead. You are so much like your father. He would be so proud of you, you know.

Well, that just sets me off, and a tear spills down my cheek. Mum wipes it away with her thumb. I'm just being a silly, clucky mother. I don't want to let my baby girl go.

I'm coming back, I reassure her. I'm not leaving forever. I know. Just take care of yourself, and be careful. You're going to be in a lot of strange countries. You have that rape alarm I brought for you. Yes, it's in my bag. And you won't walk anywhere alone, especially at night. I won't. And if you must take a cab, then check that it's a city-approved cab. I will. And you'll check in with me every day? I will. I promise.

I give her another tight squeeze. Don't worry. I pick up my bag from the floor, hanging it on my shoulder. I'm going to go. Otherwise, I'll miss check in. Okay. She stifles her tears. Bye, darling. Have a safe flight. I'll be home for a visit as soon as I can. I love you.

I start walking backward toward the checking gate, my chest heavy with emotion. I love you too, she says, wiping her face with a tissue. I'll text as soon as I land. Okay. I miss you, darling. Miss you too. Then I turn and walk away. Swiping a tear from my face, I hand my ticket to the guard and go through security.

Sixteen Hours Later, Luton, England I think I'd be exhausted after hours in an airport, waiting for my flight, which was delayed, before taking a 12-hour flight from San Paolo to Luton, and now it's 1 p.m., UK time. My body clock is a little all over the place, but as I drag my suitcase along, pushing through the door into arrivals, I'm filled with a sense of excitement that's been building the whole journey here. I'm thrilled to be back in England. Buzzed at the prospect of starting my new job. But most of all, I just can't wait to see Uncle John. It's been a while since I last saw him. I do a quick scan over the whole.