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pucksandpower · 8 months

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Gilded Cage

Charles Leclerc x heiress!Reader

Summary: when a girl who craves for freedom meets a boy who knows what it feels like to race at the speed of light

Warnings: overprotective (but loving) father

The first time you tried to escape, you were seven.

“Y/N, let go of the bird!” The nanny’s frantic voice echoed as your small fingers clutched the delicate cage, trying to unlatch it.

“I just want to see it fly!” You cried, tears streaming down your face, looking at the trapped canary. Its golden feathers seemed dulled, its tiny beak opened in a silent plea for freedom.

The cage slipped from your grasp, crashing onto the pristine marble floors. The sound was deafening in the otherwise quiet mansion. Your nanny rushed forward but not before the canary took off, its wings catching the sun, radiating a blinding brightness.

You watched, mesmerized, as the bird soared above, circling once before disappearing into the vast blue sky.

“It’s gone …” your nanny muttered, distraught at the loss of such a valuable creature.

But you, young and innocent, whispered with a smile of pure joy, “It’s free.”

From that day on, you knew one thing for certain: no amount of gold or jewels could substitute for the glitter of freedom.

***

“Again!”

The shout echoes through the cavernous halls of your palatial home. Somewhere outside, the splashing of the water from the elaborate marble fountain merges with the faint humming of gardeners trimming the intricate mazes. The walls, lined with gold-trimmed tapestries and priceless paintings, feel more like prison bars than luxuries.

"Again!"

Your fingers, stiff and aching, try to mimic the piano instructor’s exact movements. Every wrong note feels like a physical blow, another reminder that you are trapped in a world of perfection and expectations.

“I don’t want to play anymore,” you whisper but it came out stronger, more defiant than you intended.

Madame Lucille, your instructor, raises an eyebrow, unaccustomed to your resistance. “Your father wishes you to be well-versed in the classics,” she reminds you with a patronizing tone.

A voice, deep and commanding, interrupts the tension, “Let her be, Lucille.”

Your father stands at the doorway, his expensive suit impeccably tailored, matching the stern look on his face.

“But Sir, she—”

“I said, let her be.”

Madame Lucille gives you one last disapproving glare before hurriedly packing her things. Your father watches her go then turnes to you with softer eyes. “I just want the best for you,” he murmurs, walking over to sit beside you on the grand piano bench.

You take a deep breath, “I know, Papa. But I want to breathe, to live. Not just exist inside these walls.”

He sighs, looking tired. “The world out there isn’t a nice one. There are those who would want to harm you, to use you.”

“I would risk it,” you admit quietly, “For a taste of real life. For a moment outside this golden cage.”

He takes your hand, his grip firm but gentle. “You’re my everything. I can’t bear the thought of losing you.”

The weight of his love and the prison of his protection bears down on you. “One day, whether you like it or not, I’ll have to face the world. And when that day comes, I want to be ready.”

He leans back, looking up at the ornate chandelier. “What if that day was sooner than you thought?”

Confusion marrs your features. “What do you mean?”

He smiles cryptically, “There’s a Formula 1 race across the country next week. I sponsor Ferrari. Thought you might like to come with me, see something different for a change.”

You blink, taking a moment to process. “A ... race?”

He nods, “Yes. It’s not freedom but it’s a start.”

You look into his eyes, seeing a glimmer of understanding. “Okay,” you whisper, “Let’s start there.”

***

“The roar of the engines, the energy of the crowd ... there’s quite nothing like it,” your father begins, his usually stern voice tinted with boyish enthusiasm. You find yourself watching him, intrigued by this rare display of passion.

Sitting across the opulent dining table, which was rarely used to host anyone but the two of you, you play with your food, pushing it around the plate. “Cars going in circles? I don’t see the appeal.”

He chuckles, taking a sip of his vintage wine. “Oh, it’s much more than that. The strategy, the risk, the sheer speed ... it’s ballet at 300 kilometers per hour.”

You raise an eyebrow, interest piqued despite yourself. “Ballet? Really?”

He nods with a smirk. “Don’t tell me you’re not curious now?”

You hesitate. “I mean, maybe a little? But why the sudden interest in taking me? I’ve never even seen you watch a race.”

He leans forward, his gaze intense, searching yours. “I sponsor Ferrari and have an open invite to every race. Now that one will be hosted nearby, I thought maybe it’s time you see a bit more of the world. Not just through the glass windows.”

You blink in surprise. This was unexpected. “A public event? With crowds and other people?”

He nods slowly. “With crowds and other people.”

You weigh the options in your mind, the yearning for freedom battling with the anxiety of exposure. “And you think I’m ready for this?”

He reaches across the table, his fingers brushing yours. “I think we’re ready for this. It will be an unforgettable experience, I promise.”

You look into his eyes and realize that this is as much a leap for him as it is for you. Taking a deep breath, you reply, “Alright, Papa. Let’s go watch some ballet.”

***

“The red ... it’s everywhere.” You can’t help but blurt out, momentarily overwhelmed.

Your father chuckles beside you. “Well, it is Ferrari. Red is their signature.”

You gaze down, the red soles of your Louboutins now seem almost camouflaged against the vibrant Ferrari decor. “Feels like I’m stepping into another world.”

“Just stay close,” your father advises, his protective instincts rearing up again.

Promising him with a nod, you’re soon lost in the kaleidoscope of sounds and colors. The hustle of engineers, the chatter of excited fans, the roar of engines being worked on.

Suddenly, a man clad in a racing suit accidentally bumps into you, causing your drink to splatter.

“Mon dieu! I am so sorry!” He exclaims, eyes wide.

You find yourself staring not at the stained dress but into the most expressive eyes you’ve ever seen. “It’s ... it’s okay,” you stutter, taken aback by the unexpected jolt of electricity at the brief contact.

He looks genuinely apologetic. “Let me make it up to you? Another drink, perhaps?”

You laugh, “Only if you promise not to spill it.”

He grins, the smile reaching his eyes. “Deal. I’m Charles, by the way.”

Hesitating for a split second, you reply, “Y/N.”

He raises an eyebrow, “No last name?”

You smirk, “Not today.”

Charles chuckles, intrigued. “Alright, Y/N-with-no-last-name, let’s get you that drink.”

You follow him, weaving through the crowd. Every now and then, someone stops Charles to shake his hand or pat him on the back, throwing in a “Good luck, Charles!” or “Can’t wait to see you on the track!” He greets everyone with a genuine smile and a word of thanks. It’s clear just how loved he is here.

However, you remain a mystery to him. He sneaks curious glances your way, the playful teasing evident in his eyes. “So are you a big Ferrari fan or just here because you look particularly fetching in red?”

You laugh, the sound more carefree than you’ve felt in ages. “Let’s just say I’m here to explore something ... different.”

Charles nods, handing you a fresh glass from the bar. The bubbling champagne mirrors the effervescence you feel inside. “Different can be good,” he muses, taking a sip from his own plastic water bottle. “Sometimes it’s the unexpected moments that change everything.”

The weight of his gaze, the intensity of the moment, makes your heart race. “Tell me, Charles,” you begin, leaning in slightly, “What was the unexpected moment that changed everything for you?”

He looks taken aback, clearly not expecting such a question. He takes a thoughtful pause, “Every time I get behind the wheel. Each race is a new story, an unexpected twist waiting to happen.”

You nod, appreciating his sincerity. “It’s brave, you know. Facing the unexpected at such high speeds.”

He smiles warmly. “It’s not bravery, it’s passion. When you love something deeply, risks become challenges instead of threats.”

Your fingers toy with the stem of your glass, his words resonating with your own yearning for freedom. “I envy that,” you admit softly.

Charles tilts his head, studying you. “Why?”

You search for the right words. “I’ve lived in a world of certainty for so long. Every step planned, every move calculated. It’s ... suffocating.”

Charles reaches out, placing a comforting hand on your arm. “Then maybe it’s time to take a risk, Y/N-with-no-last-name. Even just a small one.”

You smile, the promise of the unknown beckoning. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe it’s time.”

***

“Do you trust me?” Charles’ eyes search yours, intense under the paddock lights.

You blink, taken aback by the sudden question. “We just met.”

He grins, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “That’s not an answer.”

Drawing in a deep breath, you reply, “I might. What are you proposing?”

His gaze drifts momentarily to the track. “After qualifying … how about a drive? Not here,” he adds, seeing your hesitation, “Away from all this. The city at night, the open road. Just two people and the world.”

You tilt your head, contemplating the offer. A spark of excitement ignites within you. “A midnight drive with a stranger? Sounds reckless.”

He chuckles, leaning in closer. The scent of leather and adrenaline wraps around you. “Life’s best moments usually are.”

As his name is called by his press officer, Charles straightens up. “I have to go. But think about it, Y/N-with-no-last-name. The invitation stands.”

Before you can respond, he jots down something on a piece of paper and hands it to you. An address. “Meet me here if you’re in. Midnight.”

You watch him stride confidently towards his garage, the weight of the decision pressing on you. Risk, freedom, the open road — its all you’ve always yearned for.

Hours later, as Charles places his car on pole, you find yourself gripping that piece of paper. The thought of the city lights and the wind through your hair is too alluring to resist.

You whisper to yourself, “Midnight it is.”

***

The ornate curtains rustle as you inch your way onto the balcony of your suite. The sheer drop below sends a thrilling chill down your spine. You’ve never snuck out before but the thought of the night ahead and Charles’ invitation propels you forward. You hitch up your dress, carefully lowering yourself onto the ledge below. The soft grass cushions your landing and you take a moment to steady your racing heart.

“You’re even crazier than I am,” a familiar voice observes from the shadows.

You whirl around, finding Charles leaning against his car, an impressed grin on his face. “I had to make a discreet exit,” you explain, cheeks warming.

He chuckles, pushing away from the car and walking over to you. “Glad you made it. Ready for our adventure?”

You nod, the proximity of him, the thrill of the night, everything heightening your senses. “More than ever.”

The car roars to life as you both settle in. The city lights blur past, the nocturnal beauty of the world unfolding around you. The road beckons, the possibilities endless.

Charles casts a sidelong glance at you, a playful smirk on his lips. “Ever driven with no speed limit?”

You laugh, “Not in my daily commute.”

He grins, “There’s a first time for everything.”

The car accelerates, the wind whipping through your hair, the night alive with potential. The city skyline fades, replaced by an open stretch of road, illuminated only by the car’s headlights and the soft glow of the moon.

Charles’ voice breaks the comfortable silence. “There’s something freeing about the night. The world sleeps, and for a few hours, you can pretend you’re the only ones alive.”

You glance over, sensing the depth of emotion behind his words. “Is this why you race? For that freedom?”

He nods, his profile bathed in moonlight. “And more. Every time I’m behind the wheel, it’s a battle against my doubts, the world, and myself.”

You understand, the weight of your own gilded cage pressing on you. “I’ve been trapped for so long. But tonight, with you, I feel … alive.”

He reaches over, entwining his fingers with yours. “Then let’s live. For tonight, let’s forget the world.”

***

“Why are those men watching us?” Charles’ voice is low, almost a whisper, as he subtly gestures towards two figures in dark suits, positioned at opposite sides of the bar you found yourselves at.

You follow his gaze discreetly, feeling a familiar dread settling in. Security. Your father’s men. “They’re ... they’re just protective, that’s all.”

Charles narrows his eyes, piecing things together. “Protective? Y/N, who are you really?”

A pang of guilt washes over you. You had hoped for more time before this moment, more stolen moments under the veil of anonymity. “It’s complicated,” you admit, hesitating.

He leans forward, his intense eyes searching yours. “Try me.”

You take a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. “My life ... it’s not what it seems. I live in a gilded cage. A cage built by my father’s wealth and influence. A beautiful cage, yes, but a cage nonetheless.”

He processes this, watching as one of the security approaches your table, handing you a phone. “Your father wishes to speak with you,” the man says tersely.

Charles’ gaze sharpens, suspicion evident. “Your father?”

You nod, taking the phone with a sigh. “Hello, Papa.”

“Y/N,” your father’s voice is a mix of relief and sternness, “I’ve been so worried. You just disappeared.”

“I needed some time,” you explain, glancing apologetically at Charles who is watching the exchange closely.

“You should come back now.”

“I’m not a child anymore,” you argue gently, “I need to live my life.”

A heavy silence follows. “Just ... be safe,” he finally murmurs.

Hanging up, you face Charles, the weight of the world pressing on you. “I’m sorry, I should have told you sooner.”

Charles leans back, his expression unreadable. “So, the mysterious Y/N-with-no-last-name turns out to be the daughter of …?”

You sigh, “A very wealthy and overprotective man.”

He processes this, the playful teasing from before replaced by deep contemplation. “You know, secrets have a way of catching up with us. But,” he adds with a hint of a smile, “I’m interested in who you are, not your family name.”

You smile, relief washing over you. “Then let’s leave the secrets for another day.”

***

The morning sun paints the Ferrari garage in a wash of golden hues, every glinting reflection a dance of radiant red. Charles stands out despite wearing the same color as he eagerly waves you over to show off the helmet in his hands.

“It’s beautiful.” Your fingers trace the lines of the design, the light catching on its glossy finish.

Charles spins the helmet so you can see every detail. “Not just the design. It’s the weight, the feel. When I put this on, I’m stepping into another world. Everything else fades away. Just the track, the car, and me.”

You smile, fascinated by his passion. But as your gaze slides over the helmet, you freeze. There, emblazoned on the side, is the unmistakable logo of Y/L/N Industries. You try to hide your surprise but Charles catches your reaction. “You recognize the logo?”

Swallowing hard, you nod. “It’s … everywhere, isn’t it?”

Charles, not picking up on your unease, grins. “Oh yes. They’re our main sponsors this season. Y/L/N Industries is massive.”

Your heart thuds. Every mention, every hint, makes the looming truth harder to avoid. “They seem ... impressive.”

You avoid his gaze, watching the mechanics prepare the cars for the race. Each Ferrari, shining in the morning sun, proudly displays the same Y/L/N Industries logo. There’s no escaping it.

Noticing your distraction, Charles follows your gaze. “I’ve always found it fascinating. How brands link up with teams. How they can become synonymous with each other over the years. Like what we had with Marlboro and now Y/L/N Industries. It’s ... an alliance.”

You chuckle, trying to deflect. “An expensive alliance.”

He laughs, “Very true. But Y/L/N Industries is more than just a name on our cars. I met the owner once, at a sponsorship event. Very ... protective of his interests.”

You gulp, feeling cornered. “Is that so?”

Charles nods, oblivious to your discomfort. “Yes. Has a daughter too, I’ve heard. But she’s kept away from the limelight. Must be hard, living under such a powerful shadow.”

Your voice is barely a whisper, “You have no idea.”

He looks at you, sensing the weight behind your words. “Y/N?”

Taking a deep breath, you finally admit, “My last name ... it’s Y/L/N.”

He stares, processing the revelation. The playful driver you spent the past days with is replaced by someone more cautious, more guarded. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

You look down, fighting back tears. “I wanted to be just Y/N, not a Y/L/N. I wanted freedom, even if just for a few days.”

Charles reaches out, lifting your chin gently. “You're still Y/N to me. But secrets ... they complicate things.”

You nod, regret clear in your eyes. “I’m sorry.”

He smiles, though it’s not quite as bright as usual. “Let’s focus on today. The race. We’ll figure the rest out later.”

***

You’re startled from your thoughts when the doors to your room burst open, the journal in which you’ve been scribbling memories of your secret meetings with Charles slipping from your fingers.

Your father stands there, a mixture of anger and desperation etching his features. In his hand, he holds a photograph — one of you and Charles lost in conversation in a hole-in-the-wall restaurant.

“Explain this,” he demands, voice shaking.

You swallow hard, the weight of your secret outings pressing down on you. “Papa, I—”

He cuts you off, waving the photograph. “Weeks, Y/N! Weeks you’ve been sneaking around, meeting him. Did you think I wouldn’t find out?”

Your voice trembles, “I just want something for myself, something real.”

He looks torn, battling between his desire to protect you and understanding your need for freedom. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because,” you hesitate, taking a deep breath, “I want to be just Y/N for once, not Y/N Y/L/N.”

“Don’t you see? That’s exactly why I protect you! The world will never see just Y/N. They will always see a Y/L/N and they will always want something from you.”

“You can’t keep doing this!” The words burst out of you before you can stop them, the pent-up frustration, fear, and yearning for freedom all culminating in this very moment.

Your father stands at the opposite end of the lavish living room, the city skyline a muted backdrop behind him. His eyes, usually so authoritative, are wide with surprise and concern. “I am only looking out for you.”

You shake your head, your voice trembling. “Looking out for me or controlling me?”

He flinches as if you physically struck him. “I want to keep you safe.”

Safe. The word hangs heavily between you, a reminder of the invisible chains binding you. “At what cost, Papa? My happiness? My freedom?”

He sighs, running a hand through his graying hair. “It’s not that simple.”

You pace the room, your emotions spilling over. “Do you even realize? Every choice, every decision has been made for me. Who I meet, where I go, even what I feel. I am suffocating!”

He looks pained. “I never meant to—”

“But you did!” You interject, tears streaming down your face. “Every time you made a choice for me, you took away a piece of my life.”

A heavy silence settles between you two, the unspoken words and regrets creating an impenetrable barrier.

Finally, your father speaks, his voice soft and filled with sorrow. “I lost your mother. I can’t bear the thought of losing you too.”

Your heart aches, understanding and resentment warring within. “I’m not Mama. I need to live, make mistakes, find love. I need to be free.”

He closes his eyes tightly, the weight of your words pressing down on him. “I just ... I love you so much.”

You walk over, taking his hands in yours, feeling the roughness of age and experience. “And I love you. But love isn’t about possession. It’s about understanding, trust, and letting go.”

Tears brim his eyes, the facade of the powerful businessman crumbling. “You will always be my little girl. I would give up every dollar — everything — if it meant keeping you safe. I’m scared that one day I won’t be able to protect you.”

You squeeze his hands. “We have to face our fears. Together.”

***

“He knows. Papa knows about us.” Your voice wavers as you meet in your secret hideaway, a small bakery tucked away from prying eyes.

Charles’ face pales, his fingers gripping the table edge. “How did he react?”

You draw in a shuddering breath, recalling the confrontation. “Not well. He feels... betrayed. I think I got through to him eventually but you never know with him. One second he’s smiling at a business rival and the next he’s snatching away their company in a hostile takeover.”

Charles’ eyes darken with concern. “I don’t want you caught in the crossfire between me and Y/L/N Industries.”

You shake your head, reaching out to touch his hand. “This isn’t about sponsorships or racing. This is about us. He’s just overprotective.”

He sighs, rubbing his temples. “This complicates things. Your father’s influence runs deep, even in the racing world.”

Tears sting your eyes. “So what? Are you saying we should …?”

“No,” Charles interjects firmly, squeezing your hand. “I’m saying we need to be careful. I won’t let anything harm you.”

A bitter laugh escapes your lips. “My father would never hurt me … at least not physically. It’s not me I’m worried about. It’s you.”

He smirks, trying to lighten the mood. “Well, I do have a penchant for driving really fast cars. Comes with a touch of danger.”

You’re not amused. “This is serious. Papa can be ... vindictive.”

Charles looks deep into your eyes. “Then we face this together. Secrets have kept us apart but now, truth will keep us together.”

You lean in, your foreheads touching. “Promise?”

He smiles, capturing your lips in a kiss. “Promise.”

***

A reporter leans forward, her voice crackling with excitement. “Charles, you just secured a stunning victory for Ferrari in a race that almost everyone thought was Red Bull’s to lose. How does it feel to come out on top?”

Charles grins, his eyes alive with a fire that burns brighter than ever. “Honestly, it’s hard to describe. We’ve been pushing ourselves, refining the car, and today, everything just clicked. The team’s effort, the car’s performance, it all paid off.”

The crowd cheers, their elation echoing through the broadcast. The reporter presses on, “You dedicated this win to someone special. Care to tell us who?”

Charles’ gaze softens, a subtle smile tugging at his lips. “There’s someone who has shown me a world beyond the track. Someone who made me realize that the freedom I feel whenever I get behind the wheel is even more precious than I always thought. This win is for her.”

A murmur ripples through the crowd, the identity of this mysterious someone a topic of speculation. The reporter smiles, clearly eager for more details. “And can you give us a hint? Is she here today?”

Charles chuckles, his dimples popping through. “Let’s just say she’s closer than you might think.”

Later, as the celebrations continue, you find yourself in a secluded corner of the motorhome, away from the clamor of the team and fans. Charles walks over, that same victorious smile on his lips. “Did you hear?”

You nod, heart still racing. “You dedicated the win to me.”

He steps closer, his hand cupping your cheek. “Of course. You’ve given me one more reason to keep pushing, keep racing. It’s not just about the cars. It’s about the freedom, the moments we steal away from the world.”

Tears well up in your eyes and you kiss him passionately, pouring all your emotions into that single moment. The crowd may not know the truth behind his dedication yet but you do. And that’s all that matters.

***

“Charles seems ... different than the others,” your father begins, his gaze distant as he looks out from the penthouse balcony.

You step closer, the night air cool against your skin. “Different how?”

He sighs, turning to face you, vulnerability evident in his eyes. “He looks at you like you’re the only person in the room. He looks at you how I used to look at your mother.”

You smile, “I never expected you to notice.”

He chuckles softly. “Just because I’m protective doesn’t mean I’m blind. I’ve watched people all my life. It’s how I built everything,” he gestures towards the sprawling city below, the twinkling lights of his corporate empire.

The weight of the moment settles between you, the years of misunderstandings and unspoken words pressing down. “Papa, I know you’re scared. Scared of the world out there, of what it might do. But I can’t be trapped forever.”

His expression softens, pain evident. “I have seen so much, faced so many betrayals. The world is rarely kind.”

You reach out, touching his arm gently. “I understand. But holding on too tight will only push me away.”

He closes his eyes, taking a shaky breath. “It’s just ... hard. Watching you grow, wanting to spread your wings. I wish I could shield you from everything.”

You smile gently. “But then I wouldn’t truly be living. Charles, he’s shown me a world beyond these walls. A world that’s unpredictable, thrilling, and real.”

Your father nods slowly. “I saw that. The way he stood by you, the way he spoke of you. He … he loves you.”

You wrap your arms around yourself, the night’s chill deepening. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted. Someone who sees me, not my last name, not a walking dollar sign.”

He steps closer, pulling you into a comforting embrace. “I’m trying. It’s not easy, letting go. But I trust you. I just need time.”

You nod, resting your head against his chest. “I know. Just promise me one thing.”

He tilts your chin up, looking into your eyes. “Anything.”

You smile, a weight lifting off your shoulders. “Trust him too. Give Charles a chance.”

He sighs, the walls he built over the years slowly crumbling. “For you, I’ll try.”

***

“I’ve been waiting for this moment,” your father says, breaking the tense silence that envelops the extravagant dining room.

Charles, sitting straight-backed and visibly anxious, clears his throat. “Sir, I assure you, my intentions with Y/N are—”

Genuine laughter interrupts him. You glance in shock at your father, who chuckles, “Relax, Charles. I’ve watched you on the track. You face challenges head-on. That’s a quality I admire.”

Charles exhales a sigh of relief. “Thank you, sir. Y/N means the world to me.”

Your father studies Charles, his gaze thoughtful. “I can see that. And I have seen the change in Y/N since she met you.”

You bite your lip, waiting for what he might say next. “Papa, I—”

He raises a hand, silencing you. “I’ve spent my life building walls around you, trying to protect you from the world. But maybe ... maybe it’s time to let you fly.”

Your heart leaps in your chest. “Papa …”

He smiles at you, warmth shining in his eyes. “You’re my daughter. All I’ve ever wanted is your happiness. If Charles is the one who brings that joy, then I give you both my blessing.”

Tears glisten in your eyes as you stand, moving to embrace your father. “Thank you.”

Charles stands too, extending a hand towards your father. “Thank you, sir. I promise to take cherish and take care of her.”

Your father grasps Charles’ hand for a moment longer than expected, a thoughtful look in his eyes. “Charles,” he begins, a twinkle of mischief evident, “just remember … if you ever hurt my daughter, they will never find your body.”

Charles gulps, eyes widening, then realizes the playful tone your father has adopted. He chuckles, nodding, “Duly noted, sir.”

You can’t help but laugh, shaking your head. “Papa, you are impossible.”

Your father grins, the atmosphere significantly lighter. “Just making sure he understands.”

Charles playfully raises his hands in surrender. “Message received loud and clear.”

***

The pitter-patter of little feet echoes through the grand halls, accompanied by peals of laughter. The once silent mansion is now alive with the exuberance of youth. Every corner and every room tells tales of play and joy, of childhood memories being crafted.

“Slow down, my darlings!” You call out in amusement as you chase the energetic duo.

Charles laughs as one of your kids hides behind him, tiny hands clutching his leg. “You can’t hide here forever!” He teases.

From the doorway, your father watches, his eyes glassy. The stoic businessman, the guardian of a vast empire, is rendered soft and vulnerable by the presence of his grandchildren.

“Grandpa!” The children cheer, running to him, their arms outstretched.

He bends down, scooping them into a gentle embrace. “I have a surprise for you,” he whispers, producing a small cage with a golden canary inside from behind his back. Its wings barely beat, eyes darting around to mirror its trapped spirit.

The children’s eyes widen in wonder. “Why is it in a cage, Grandpa?”

Your father looks up, meeting your gaze, the weight of the past reflected in his eyes. “It looked sad at the market, just like someone I once knew. But we’re going to set it free.”

Together, the family moves to the balcony. Your father opens the cage door, and the canary, after a hesitant moment, takes flight, its song a melody of freedom and hope.

As you watch the bird disappear into the horizon, your father breaks the silence. “Sometimes, we cage the things we love, thinking it’s for the best. But true love is about letting go, letting them spread their wings.”

You lean into Charles, his arm wrapping around you, the children nestled between you both. “Thank you, Papa,” you whisper. “For letting us learn the true meaning of freedom.”

Your father smiles, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “It took me a while but I finally understand. Love, life, freedom — they’re all interconnected. We just have to find our sky.”

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bellewintersroe · 10 months

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Charles Leclerc smut x reader - part 1

Little bit different from my normal writing, but I’ve been obsessed with f1 atm and can’t seem to shake the thirst for the drivers 😬 so anyway here’s a Charles smut x Vasseur! Daughter. Don’t know if this will hit the target audience but it’s fine!

this hasn’t been proof read so could be kinda shit.

Jenny never had a good relationship with her father, the current principle of Ferrari. He’s brought her to many of the 2023 Grand Prix races in order to bond, however she seems to have turned her efforts elsewhere when she meets a certain driver who can’t seem to keep his eyes off her. Their relationship is forbidden, hidden make out sessions, late night drives, the two are getting closer and closer until neither of them can handle the tension between one another.

“Looks cold.” I commented, half distracted as the Monegasque struggled to lower himself into the ice-bath. Fuck, he was so sexy. My eyes dropped down to Charles’ bare torso, he was so toned, his tan skin was smooth and I wanted to run my hand down there so bad. His chest rose and fell heavily, fast enough to get my imagination racing.

“Probably because it is!” Charles teased back, letting out several gasps that had me turning away in order to rid the dirty thoughts from my mind. I couldn’t control my mind around Charles, we’d been getting closer for the past two months, out of the four we’d known one another. Secret, friendly drives and late night takeaways turned into heated make out sessions in hotel corridors and, tense, sex fuelled texts from one another’s rooms when our hands were the only tools to satisfy our own cravings. If it wasn’t for my dad, Frederic Vasseur, principle of Ferrari, and therefore Charles’ borderline manager- or whatever you wanted to call him- I was positive I’d have had Charles in the way I wanted several times at this point.

Growing up I’d loved attending races, placing in the cars, I enjoyed being around here, but living in England with my mum strained my relationship with my father, my teenage years having interests elsewhere than race tracks and cars. This year, I’d made the effort to follow my dad around and Ferrari, accepting his invitation and staying with my 3 siblings and step-mum. I was glad I did, not only for the family time, but for the fact I’d met Charles. Wondering off, I didn’t really know where to linger, none of my family were here, so I just kinda stood on my phone inside, revealing a text from Charles before I’d seen him outside. Let’s go for a drive tonight?

Smiling, I was quick to text back in agreement before I scrolled up ever so slightly. Sexts. Fuck, intimate, graphic pictures, I ignored my own and glanced over Charles’s, pulling my phone closer to me so nobody could see. Not that there was anybody about. Pictures of his cock, exposed, hidden beneath his boxers, strained under a towel, wrapped in his hand- I had to quickly flick off the chat to control my breathing. How I needed him, so desperately, I’d yet to see him naked in real, I’d yet to touch him. The video he sent me from the night before plagued my mind, the way his breath trembled as he jerked himself off, how he’d spat into his palm, lubricating himself and, how he’d moaned and gasped my name as he came over his bare torso. My stomach churned with butterflies, my hand scraped through my hair, fidgeting as I let out a quick exhale through my nose. I was officially sex deprived. Turning down to my phone, I started texting Charles again, not knowing if he’d see it or not. I really need you

Much to my surprise, he read the message almost instantly. He must be out of his ice-bath already. Why, are you okay??? I physically face palmed at his message, feeling a slight humiliation covet my face. Maybe if I dirty talked in the small amount of French I knew he’d actually take the hint? I don’t mean it like that hahaha

Where are you? I see you

Glancing up from my phone, I noticed the shirtless boy walking towards home, glimpsing behind him to see if anybody followed. “You thought I was hurt?” I giggled when he got closer, biting down on my lip as he placed a hand on my lower back. “I am an idiot.” He laughed, his accent thick. “I know.” I hummed out, gazing up to him as his eyes lingered over me.

He moved down, pressing a kiss to the side of my forehead before his other hand ran over the back of my hip. “This way, my love.” He sweetly spoke as I felt that familiar pulsating in my core. Fuck, I needed him, and I needed him now.

I didn’t ask any questions, I just allowed him to lead me down past the gym and into a small changing room. I could feel my breathing grow heavy, the anticipation of being completely and utterly alone being too much as I spun around as soon as the door was shut. “Charles.” I whispered, a little breathy as I slid my hands over his shoulders, simultaneously clashing our lips together. His hands were still holding my hips, the front now, smoothing over my white summer dress that was maybe a little too short.

“I needed you so bad.” I practically whined, pressing our bodies closer together as his fingers tightened over my hips. “Fuck, in here?!” He whispered, the kiss breaking apart for a second as we stared back to one another with the same wild look in our eyes. “Please.” I hushed, bucking my hips a little into his as his eyes fluttered shut, hearing him let out a small breath. “I thought about you all day in this dress.” Charles muttered, pushing my head back into a bruising kiss. “Mmmh.” I hummed, hungrily against his mouth. “What about?” I giggled, desperate to hear more of his dirty words. My hand smoothed down his front, knowing we didn’t have much time and rested over his lower abdomen. Charles gulped harshly, lips grazing over mine.

“You are a dirty girl, wanting to hear about it all, yes?” He let out a breathless laugh as I giggled, nodding and leaving a second lingering kiss on his mouth. When I retracted, he attempted to move closer again, letting out a noise of discontent when I moved away from the kiss he chased. “Oui.” I teased as he smirked. “Oh, tu veux le faire en français?” I vaguely recognised he was asking if I wanted to do this in French. “Mmmh.” I agreed, feeling one of his hands fall down as he smoothed over the curve of my ass.

Charles lowered his head, dipping it into the crook of my neck as I swallowed, letting out a breathy moan at the sensitivity I felt when he trailed his lips over my exposed skin. “Tu veux entendre parler de toutes les choses sales que j'ai pensé de toi?” He hummed as I simultaneously let out a moan at his French tongue, whispering into my ear. I was entirely too distracted to translate what he was saying. “God.” I gasped out, head lolling back, the tension thick between us as he pressed my hips into his. “Don’t run away.” He borderline tutted, attaching our lips again. This time, the kiss was deep and there was no breaking apart, Charles stumbled back, into the wall, stumbling around as he hummed lowly, running his hands over my back, pinching my ass and pulling it desperately into his already hard front. “I wanted to get up this skirt all…” I felt him wince when he couldn’t think of the word. “Day?” I giggled. “Day.” He breathily laughed, kissing me gently. “Since you sent me those pictures.” His hand reached down to the bare of my leg, smoothing over my thigh and up my skirt.

“So, so sexy.” He hummed, fingers grazing over my core, top to bottom, all the way to the top of my pubic mound, over the slit. My hips bucked at the sensitivity, it had been a while since anybody other than myself had touched there. And now Charles was the one running his fingers over me, my pussy ached for him. I didn’t think I could be patient, Charles and I took a second to glance at once another before he now nudged me back into the wall, the kiss becoming heavy and sloppy as he breathed harshly against my lips, pushing his fingers into my thongs as his rough fingertips rubbed over my wetness, sliding easily against my throbbing clit.

“Si humide, putain, j'ai tellement besoin de toi.” He borderline whimpered as my hand wrapped around his clothed cock. He was rock hard, he felt so big against my small hands, and as I rubbed my hand up and down, Charles’ breathing grew heavier. “I need you too.” I choked out, letting a soft gasp escape my lips when his fingers pressed down harder on my sensitivity. “Fuck.” I whimpered out. “Please, I need you to fuck me.” My head fell against his shoulder as he nudged my face up with his. “Are you sure?” “Yeah.” I nodded, surely, his hand creeping out of my underwear, resting on my exposed hip. “Just take me here, please, we can make up for it later.” I squeezed the tip of his cock as he choked out a French curse word. “C’mere.” Charles then quickly ushered, lowering himself down onto the bench as I was quick to follow, watching him pull out his cock. He was just as big in real life compared to the numerous pictures and videos he sent me. I wanted to taste him. Just as I was ready to get on my knees his hand stopped me by the elbows.

“Non, non. You wont do that the first time we sleep together.” He insisted, pulling me on top. “I don’t have much time.” Charles admittied, guiding me to climb on top, knees either side of him. It was the first time we’d been in this position, and I could feel myself growing a little red in the cheeks. I’d been so caught up in my sexual desperation, that I didn’t fully realise how exciting and fun this was to do with Charles.

“Are you sure you want to do it in here?” He paused, running a hand over my cheek, some strands of hair catching between his fingers. “Yeah.” I nodded, smiling a little shyly at the vulnerable moment. “I’m on the pill as well. La pilule.” I translated as he nodded, lifting his head to kiss me more gently now. Charles fingers pushed the shoulder of my sleeve slightly, exposing my skin as he pressed a kiss there before spitting in his hand to lubricate himself and angle himself at my entrance.

I gasped at the slight stretch, sinking down slowly on his cock as he let out a sigh, fidgeting a little at the sensation as he smoothed a hand down my back. Fuck. He felt so good- I felt so full. Just how if needed. “That’s good?” He asked me as I nodded. “Yeah.” I squeaked, moving forwards for another kiss as he began moving me up and down with the thrust of his hips, the small noises he was making causing me to gasp out myself. The angle was intense, immediately hitting a sensitive spot deep inside of me as I struggled to remain quiet.

“Oh my god.” Charles hushed against my ear, pressing a kiss to my neck as I whined, gripping at him tighter, I began moving my hips, bouncing on his cock as I started a rhythm that made his eyes roll back into his head. Fuck, he looked so good, I couldn’t speak, I was struggling to hold back my moans, so if I opened my mouth I’d get us into trouble. “So good.” I sobbed against his neck, hiding my face in there. “Oui.” He agreed, strained as he bucked his hips up again, once, twice, three times, before he started fucking me at a much faster rate. “Fuck, like that, fuck me Charles.” I practically sung as he let out a gasp of a moan, my hips jolting forwards.

“Been waiting for this.” He grunted out, pulling my hips down to grind over him. “For so long.” He groaned, dropping his head back as I whined, grinding myself over him. “Fuck.” I choked out as he lifted his head again, watching me with an open mouth. He tensed his jaw, one hand on my shoulder, the other gripping my ass as he began fucking into me. “Tu le veux plus fort?” I moaned out in response, “yes, yes.” I choked, overwhelmed by the pleasure as he continued fucking up into me.

“Needed you for so long, Charles.” I whimpered, forehead resting against his own as he continued bucking up into me, beginning to sweat as he huffed at my words. Now we’d been so deep into our intense love making, I felt all the confidence to begin babbling. “Fuck, I needed you to fuck me like this, watching you touch yourself over me.” Charles let out a much louder groan at my words now, one of his hands slamming on the longer besides us for support. “I can’t.. I can’t, I’m going to cum if you keep talking like that.” Charles paused, breathing heavily as I gasped out from the loss of movement. Instead, I began bouncing my hips up and down, hands resting on his bare torso. “That’s what I want.” I admitted as his eyes squeezed tightly shut for a moment, gripping my flesh harshly. “Baby, baby, baby.” He hushed, pulling my front closer to his. “I want you to cum first. Tu jouis en premier.” He whispered, inhaling sharply with another snap of my hips.

“I’ll finish too fast.” He settled a hand on my hips, freezing my actions as he smiled a little shyly. “Charles?! Charles?!” A man’s voice began echoing as I turned over my shoulder. Charles let out a frustrated sigh, dropping his shoulder against mine. The door was locked. “Yo, Charles you in there?” The man asked as I made direct eye contact with the boy still inside me. No, I needed him, fuck, I didn’t want this to end.

“Can’t I get two minutes alone with you?” Charles muttered, head leaning on my chest now. His hips gyrated the slightest against mine as I let out a quiet sigh, trailing my hands over his shoulders. “Yeah! Just on the phone!” Charles exclaimed. “Oh! Okay, sorry! You’re needed outside, bro!” Charles winced as I went to slide off him, he shook his head, wanting me to stay there, but I dropped to my knees causing him to sit up straighter, stunned by my actions. I smirked up to him, licking a stripe along the bottom of his cock as his jaw dropped.

“I-I’ll be 10 minutes!” He choked out, holding eye contact with him for as long as I could before I sunk my lips down over his erection. I’d wanted to feel him in my mouth for so long.

“Okay, bro, sorry for interrupting!” The man called out again, I think his name was Marcus. “Merde.” Charles muttered maybe a little too loud as I hollowed my cheeks, sucking a little faster now. His hand hovered over the back of my head, resting it there lightly as I felt his whole body tense. My lips ran over his veiny tip, the taste of myself and his precum filled my mouth, edging me on.

“What?” The guy called out again. “Nothing!” Charles exclaimed, miming out a soft, “oh my god.” Biting down on his hand, I glanced up to him before going down as far as possible. He jumped and hunched forwards. He was going to cum, I could feel it, I wanted it.

“Ah, alright man, see you in 10.” The footsteps slowly got quieter as Charles finally sighed out.

“Si bon, Jenny tu es si bon pour moi.” I knew that was him telling me how good I was, fuck, I needed to hear more of his praises as I bobbed my head up and down. His soft breaths soon became heavy and shaky, as he struggled to keep his composure and keep quiet. “Je vais jouir.” He warned, “merde! Baby!” He held his breath, tapping desperately on my cheek, but I didn’t pull off as his whole body seized and began shaking. I moaned against his twitching cock, pulling off just as he spurted his cum everywhere, the breath he was holding coming out as one loud groan, the desperation soon replaced with content as I smoothed my hands over his wet cock. Charles’s hand landed on top of mine as he caressed my fingers that stroked over his dick. That was too good… making him cum for me with my mouth, I’d never done that before.

“Oh, baby!” He moaned out, exhaling and sitting up straighter as he pulled me up, kissing me several times. “You didn’t have to do that.” He breathed, still coming down from his high as I smiled, kissing his cheek. “I wanted to. Plus, you were in a rush.”

“Fuck, you are so good. I owe you big time.” He shook his head, glancing down to the mess we’d both made. “No you don’t.” I swiped my fingers under my lip, cleaning myself up as my pussy still throbbed, I was in pain with the amount of sexual frustration I had. “I do.” Charles nodded firmly, “I want to properly fuck you. For as long as you want.” He shook his head, his words making me groan playfully as he giggled. He knew exactly what he was doing.

“Don’t make yourself cum until I can. Tonight.” Charles grabbed my wrist once more as I bit down on my lip. “If I can wait that long.” I eyed him up and down as he slowly eased himself onto his feet. We shared a few sweet kisses before he apologised profusely that he had to leave. I was fine with it, kinda satisfied from the fact we’d finally got to- pretty much fuck. Now all I had to do was wait until tonight without touching myself. Kinda difficult when I’d been worked up to the edge of orgasm by one of the hottest guys I’d ever seen. I wasn’t sure if I could wait that long ….

#Charles leclerc x reader #charles leclerc smut #f1 smut

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theemporium · 8 months

Note

Could you maybe write something with Carlos and his wife who's shy and more quiet despite working for the social media team of Ferrari and when fans get a bit handsy Carlos steps in when he notices her discomfort?

thank you for requesting!🫶🏽

You always preferred to stay behind the camera.

It had always been the case, even since you were a kid. You were shy, a little introverted. You didn’t like it at home when your parents tried to film a few home videos, you didn’t like it at school, you just didn’t really like it at all.

Your fascination came from being behind the camera. In being the one to capture all the moments around you so you could share it with the world. And with a growing love for motorsports ever since you were a young girl, it only made sense that your career and line of work would follow your dreams.

You joined the Scuderia Ferrari team the same year Carlos Sainz was signed on as their new driver, and it felt like fate that you two crossed paths.

It was difficult not to fall for the Spaniard. He lived true to his name and you were practically wrapped around his finger after you two first spoke. Carlos was sweet and kind and romantic, and despite having his undivided attention, you never felt like you were under a spotlight like you tended to feel with others.

Carlos always made you feel safe. He helped you grow, just as you did with him. And it was no surprise to anyone that after a few years of dating, Carlos finally put the ring on your finger.

The irony was never lost on you that despite your shy and reserved nature, the man you married ended up being one of the most photographed and sought out people in the world. He was constantly in front of a camera, and you were more than happy to be the one behind it. And all in all, fans were mostly respectful of your wishes to stay in the shadows.

But sometimes that wasn’t always the case.

Monza was a big race for the Ferrari team, one marked on the calendar and anticipated throughout the season. It was their home race. It was where the fans were the wildest, craziest, most passionate. And the boys were at the middle of it all, the hopes for a good race in front of their most loyal fans.

Carlos had one hand perched on your lower back as you made your way towards the paddock entrance. Both your paddock passes were in your hands as Carlos used his free hand to sign as many photos and caps and shirts as he could.

“Careful, mi amor,” Carlos murmured, his arm winding around your waist to keep you upright as more fans flooded your husband.

“You don’t need to rush,” you told him with a soft smile. “We still have another fifteen minutes before the meeting.”

He raised his brows. “Are you sure?”

“They are here for your, Carlos,” you assured him as you squeezed his hand, before letting him step away and give his full attention to the fans.

However, before you could step away from the crowd like you planned to do, an influx of more fans started pushing forwards to try and catch a glimpse of your husband. They were yelling and shoving and you started to feel hands all over you, and it made you want to crawl into yourself.

Your breathing quickened and your eyes darted around the group to try and find an escape, but it was useless. You tried to ignore the way your throat closed up, a sense of panic and dread bubbling inside of you as more people pushed and more hands touched you, and for a second you were concerned you were about to have a breakdown in front of everyone.

“AY! AY! MOVE AWAY, LET HER BREATHE!”

The crowd around you started to dissipate and soon enough the sight of your husband was no longer obstructed. Carlos quickly moved towards you, his hands cupping your face the second he was close enough.

“Mi amor,” he murmured breathlessly before he wound an arm around your shoulder protectively and began to guide you away from the crowds.

“Carlos,” you murmured as you sunk into his embrace. “The fans—”

“Can wait,” he finished for you. “I’ll go back later. You’re my priority.”

Your cheeks flushed. “I’m sorry.”

He paused, looking down at you with a frown on his face. “Do not apologise, amor,” he murmured with a shake of his head. “You’re my wife, you’re my world. Nothing will ever be important to me as you are.”

Your lips twitched. “Many years later and you still make me swoon, Mr Sainz.”

“I like to remind you why you said I do, Mrs Sainz,” he replied with a cheeky grin as he pressed a kiss to the top of your head before guiding you towards the Ferrari motorhome where you’d be safe from the onslaught of crowds.

#carlos sainz #formula one #f1 #carlos sainz x reader #carlos sainz x you #carlos sainz x y/n #carlos sainz fic #carlos sainz one shot #formula one x reader #formula one x you #formula one x y/n #formula one fic #formula one one shot #f1 x reader #f1 x you #f1 x y/n #f1 fic #f1 one shot

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deliciousangelfestival · 2 months

Text

Tears In His Ferrari || Chp 9 - B.Barnes

Character: Bucky Barnes x Farmer!Reader

Summary: Bucky Barnes, used to a life of luxury, takes on farm challenges in a bet with his father. Mud-stained Ferraris and a rustic farmhouse lead to unexpected personal growth, guided by the stern mentorship of Y/N, a farmer making his city-boy life difficult.

Theme: Fluff, Slice of Life, Heart-Warming.

Main Masterlist || support: Ko-fi

Thank you to anyone who gave a like, reblog, and left a comment. It motivated me to write more.

Chapters: Chp 1, Chp 2, Chp 3 , Chp 4 , Chp 5 , Chp 6 , Chp 7 , Chp 8 , Chp 9 , -

Bucky, noticing the strained atmosphere between Kate and Y/N, decided to take matters into his own hands.

"Hey, Y/N," Bucky interjected, his voice laced with a hint of urgency, "could you teach me how to clean Alpine's hooves?"

Y/N paused, her expression softening as she recognized Bucky's attempt to diffuse the tension. "Of course," she replied, offering him a reassuring smile.

With a sense of relief washing over him, Bucky led the way to the stables, eager to learn from Y/N and escape the brewing conflict with Kate.

Meanwhile, Kate seethed with frustration, her hostility towards Y/N palpable. Clenching her fists, she struggled to contain her anger as she watched Bucky and Y/N walk away, leaving her behind.

"Shit!" she muttered under her breath, her perfectly manicured nails leaving indentations on her palms as she pressed them tightly together.

Turning to her assistant, Kate issued a terse command. "I want you to gather information on someone."

Kate couldn't fathom how Bucky could abandon her for a mere farm girl when there were plenty of wealthy suitors vying for her attention. The thought fueled her irritation, exacerbating her already sour mood.

With a frustrated huff, Kate stomped her expensive shoes on the ground, unwittingly stepping into a patch of mud. The dirt splattered across her face, staining her clothes and ruining her pristine footwear.

"Fuck!" she exclaimed, her outburst startling the nearby animals, who responded with their own cacophony of sounds.

As the chickens clucked "Buk-buk-ba-gawk!!!" and the cows mooed, "Moooo…!" Kate felt a surge of indignation. She despised the rural setting and everything it represented, longing for the comfort and luxury of her city life.

Determined to uncover any secrets Y/N might be hiding, Kate hoped that the information her assistant obtained would give her the leverage she needed to regain control of the situation.

***********

At the stable, Bucky observed closely as Y/N expertly cleaned Alpine's hooves. Her movements were precise and confident, a testament to her familiarity with the task.

She explained, her voice calm and knowledgeable, “Regular cleaning is also the only way to remove impacted dirt, mud, and manure from the hoof. When you give your horse a bath, take the time to carefully clean out their hooves to prevent horse scratches and infections.”

Bucky nodded attentively, absorbing her instructions. “I see. I'll try my best to take care of Alpine.”

Y/N smiled approvingly. “Good. You're getting better at living on this farm.”

Bucky felt a flush of shyness at her compliment. He hadn't expected Y/N to praise him. “Hehe, but I'm nothing compared to you.”

As she brushed Alpine's coat, Y/N chuckled softly. “Well, I'm already used to this. If you asked me to drive a sports car or make a vlog, I wouldn't have a clue.”

Bucky's curiosity piqued. “You've never driven a sports car?”

Y/N rolled her eyes playfully. “Not everyone is as rich as you.”

Realizing his unintentional insensitivity, Bucky hurriedly apologized. “Uhh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean it that way.”

Then, an idea struck him. “Do you want me to teach you?”

Bucky said, "You have taught me how to drive a truck. It's more difficult than driving my Ferrari. I think you can do it."

Y/N paused, considering his offer. Bucky couldn't see her expression from his angle. “Hmm, I'll pass, but thanks for the offer.”

Disappointed but understanding, Bucky nodded. He had hoped to share the thrill of driving a sports car with Y/N, to give her a glimpse of his world, and understand his passion for racing.

Suddenly, Toby burst into the stable, his usually cheerful face now drawn with worry. “Y/N, Bucky, I need to go home!”

Concern etched across his features, Bucky approached. "What's wrong?"

“My grandmother,” Toby gasped, his voice trembling. “She's having a hard time breathing.”

Y/N wasted no time. “Get in my car, and I'll call the doctor on the way.”

Bucky, feeling a surge of determination, stepped forward. “I want to help.”

Y/N hesitated, considering Bucky's offer. “It won't fit since we're going to pick up both his grandparents.”

But Bucky wasn't deterred. “I'll use my car. It's faster. I'll meet you at Toby's house and then drive his grandma to the hospital.”

Y/N nodded, seeing the logic in Bucky's plan. “Alright.”

With determination in his eyes, Bucky hurried to his red Ferrari and fired up the engine.

"VROOM!"

The roar of the Ferrari's powerful motor sent a thrill through him. “Let's help someone,” he declared, gripping the steering wheel tightly.

As they drove towards Toby's house, Bucky followed Y/N's truck, his mind racing with thoughts. He couldn't help but marvel at Toby's resilience, realizing that the young boy had been walking to and from the farm every day.

Bucky remembered Toby, who never seemed tired each time he came by.

He felt like all his life he had the privilege to own a car and have a private driver to drive him around.

Arriving at Toby's house, Bucky took in the scene before him—the abundance of bee boxes and honey jars, a testament to the family's livelihood. Yet, despite their hard work, they lacked the resources and transportation in times of emergency.

Feeling a pang of guilt, Bucky reflected on his life of luxury, provided by his father's wealth.

Entering the house, Bucky saw Toby's grandparents. The love between them was palpable, even in their moment of distress. Toby's grandmother struggled to breathe, her frail form supported by her husband.

Bucky sprang into action with urgency, lifting Toby's grandmother gently into his arms.

Toby's grandfather regarded Bucky with curiosity who carried his wife into the small car. “Who is this young man?”

Toby assured him, “He's my great friend. Trust him, grandpa.”

As they hurried Toby's grandmother into Bucky's car, Toby's grandfather's eyes reflected both worry and gratitude, hoping for the best for his beloved wife.

With minimal traffic on the road, Bucky navigated the streets swiftly, arriving at the hospital in just 10 minutes. Carrying Toby's grandmother into the emergency room, he conveyed the urgency of her condition to the attending doctor. "She's having a hard time breathing. It's been 20 minutes."

The medical team, already briefed by Y/N, sprang into action, swiftly preparing a bed for the elderly woman. "Quick, put her here," they instructed, their sense of urgency matching Bucky's own.

As he received updates upon his arrival, Bucky prayed for Toby's grandmother's swift recovery. The weight of the situation settled heavily on his shoulders, a newfound sense of responsibility driving him to do everything in his power to help.

Ten minutes later, Y/N, Toby, and his grandfather arrived at the hospital, their anxious expressions mirroring Bucky's own concern. "Where is she?" Toby's grandfather inquired, his voice trembling with worry.

Bucky relayed the nurse's assurance. "The doctor is still looking after her, but the nurse told him her breathing problem has already improved."

Relief washed over the group, evident in their collective sighs. Toby's grandfather extended his hand to Bucky in gratitude. "Thank you, young man. Thank you so much."

Though unused to such displays of appreciation, Bucky accepted the gesture with a sense of humility, his heart warmed by the genuine gratitude.

Not just him, but Y/N felt it too. Watching Bucky's efforts to help Toby and his grandparents, Y/N's perception of him changed. He wasn't the spoiled person she had initially thought him to be.

*************

As they waited at the hospital, Bucky's thoughts drifted to his father. Reflecting on their strained relationship, he wondered when they had last spent quality time together. The sight of his father's graying hair flashed in his mind, prompting concerns about his health. Had his father undergone regular check-ups?

His musings were interrupted by Toby's grandfather's somber conversation with a doctor. "We couldn't afford the surgery," he overheard, the weight of the words settling heavily on Bucky's heart.

Caught in a moment of helplessness, Toby echoed his grandfather's sentiments. If only his father hadn't succumbed to gambling, they would have had the means to afford the necessary medical treatment for his grandmother.

Feeling helpless, Bucky watched as Toby and his family grappled with the harsh reality of their financial limitations. Meanwhile, Y/N, ever resourceful, discussed options to assist Toby's grandmother with the hospital administration.

In the midst of the chaotic scene at the hospital, Bucky felt overwhelmed by the raw emotions surrounding him. The sight of an 80-year-old man in tears and the anguished voice of another man grappling with his inability to provide for his loved one brought a lump to Bucky's throat, threatening to unleash his own flood of tears.

In stark contrast to his usual composed demeanor, Bucky clenched his fists in frustration, his heart aching with the weight of helplessness. In a world where a simple swipe of his card could solve most problems, he now found himself powerless in the face of someone else's suffering.

Determined to make a difference, Bucky stepped outside the hospital, his resolve firm as he dialed his father's number.

“Hello,” came his father's curt greeting.

“Dad. I need your help,” Bucky began, his voice tinged with urgency.

His father's response was laced with skepticism. “What did you do this time?”

Bucky's frustration mounted as he struggled to convey the gravity of the situation. “Huh? No, Dad, this isn't about me. I want to help someone.”

But his father's skepticism persisted. “Really? It's not the same as when you ask for a private jet to pick up your friends for a party?”

Bucky winced at the reminder of his past selfishness, feeling ashamed. “No, Dad, this is different. This is about someone's life. A farmer I know is facing a medical issue and can't afford surgery. I want to help them, but I don't have the money. Dad, can you help me?”

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line, stretching agonizingly as Bucky waited for his father's response.

“...”

“Hello? Dad?” Bucky prompted anxiously, his heart pounding in his chest.

“How much for the surgery?” his father's voice finally broke through the silence.

Relief flooded through Bucky, gratitude welling up within him. “Thank you, Dad. You're the best. Oh, can I ask one more thing?” he added, seizing the opportunity to make another request, his mind already racing with possibilities.

As he awaited his father's response, Bucky couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, knowing that with his father's support, he could truly make a difference in someone's life.

Inside the office, with expansive windows offering sweeping views of the city skyline, sat a man of distinguished presence. David Barnes, at 50 years old, possessed an aura of approachability coupled with an unmistakable air of authority.

David was renowned in the business world for his astute decisions and remarkable success. With a seemingly effortless knack for turning ventures into triumphs, he had earned the moniker of having a Midas touch.

Yet, despite his prowess in the realm of business, David found himself somewhat adrift when it came to matters concerning his son, Bucky. His only child, Bucky's recent actions had stirred something within David, a sense of curiosity and perhaps even pride.

As he listened to Bucky's earnest plea for assistance, David felt a stirring within him. It was a rare glimpse of the young man his son had become, a departure from the carefree persona that had once defined him.

With a decisive nod, David motioned to his secretary. “Send $20,000 to this hospital,” he instructed, his voice tinged with a quiet resolve.

The secretary, ever efficient, sought clarification. “Did Bucky get hurt?” she inquired, her concern evident in her tone.

David shook his head, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he gazed at the sunset, casting its golden hues across the city cape. “No,” he replied simply, “he's helping someone.”

At that moment, as he watched the sun dip below the horizon, David felt a swell of pride for his son, realizing that there was more to success than just business acumen—that true wealth lay in the ability to lend a helping hand to those in need.

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pepsiluvr0209 · 3 months

Text

White Ferrari (Final)

buckle in guys

WARNINGS: Angst, mentions of death and just overall sadness

Matt Sturniolo x Reader

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧.˚ₓ

"I let you out, at Central."

It had been one day.

One day of Matt never leaving your side. He practically had to be dragged out of your room for tests and to rest, since the lack of sleep the boy was getting was detrimental for his healing.

"Baby you need to eat." You look at Matt who stared back at you, sadness engulfing his eyes. He had been by your hospital bed for the past couple hours and you started to get concerned.

"I don't want to." He mumbled, tiredly grabbing your tubed hand and playing with your fingers. "I just want to be with you."

"Can you eat here?" Matt just shrugged. Just then you started coughing erratically and Matt jumped up, cradling you gently so you could stabilise yourself. After your breathing evened out, he reluctantly let go and instantly latches himself back onto your hand. This happens about once every 10 minutes and Matt feels his heart break with every episode.

"See this is what we can't do." You sternly say turning to look at him in the eyes. "I want you to take care of yourself."

Matt fiercely shakes his head and you can feel his larger hands start to tremor in yours. "I don't need to take care of myself." He says quietly looking down. "Because when we get out of here, I-I'll have you." He says with confidence.

You've experienced a couple heartbreaks in your time but nothing could compare to the pain you felt in that very moment.

"Matt-" You start.

"No. I don't want to hear it."

If you look close enough you can glistening streams flowing from his ocean eyes down his pale cheeks. You reach out to run your fingers over his stubble which was poking out since he hasn't had the opportunity to shave in a while. Matt's hand still interlaced with yours, he watches you as your intertwined hands caress over his face. You watch back staring at him with a bittersweet smile.

"I love you."

"I love you more." And he reached over to plant a gentle kiss on your lips.

Now, you weren't stupid. As soon as you regained consciousness the Doctor's gave it to you straight, and of course you were destroyed to find out that there was nothing they could do.

But what upset you the most was Matt.

We had everything planned out and it's all going to shit, because I can't physically be there with him. Create more memories with him. We're never going to go on 2am drives together again, never going to play fucking Mariokart with him again, and do stupid little things like shared face-masks, long hugs and deep talks, movie marathons and cooking monstrosities in the kitchen.

But he will do it with someone else.

He can marry another girl, and have kids, live right by Nick and Chris and go to Central with her.

While I'll watch and always know that it could've been me.

Maybe in another life.

The Doctor's told me it was a guy driving a white Ferrari. Had too much to drink and paid the consequences for it. They're burying him the day before my funeral.

It's such a weird thought. My funeral's in a couple days. Would I have scarring from all these wires? Would I be wearing my hospital gown? Who would show up?

Would Matt be there?

Would it be sad? Fuck, would they serve food after?

A guy came in for my will the other day and I told him all of my stuff me and Matt basically shared so he can decide what to do with everything. Obviously I gave my parents and Matt's brothers a respectful amount, but honestly I could care less, my stuff isn't as important compared to him.

"What are you thinking about sweetheart?" Matt gently moved my stray hairs from my forehead to the side.

"Nothing." I smile. He smiles back, and I can tell he knows I'm lying but he is perfectly fine living right now, without knowing.

I inhale sharply. "Matt?" He hums in response, sensing my hesitation. "How fast are you gonna move on?"

"I don't want to talk about that y/n." He says sternly.

"Why?" I retaliate, my brows furrowing. When he doesn't answer I huff and say quietly. "I've got just over 24 hours left Matt. I-It hurts to cough and sometimes I throw up blood-"

"No, no, no, no." He says loudly. "You're gonna make it baby. T-The Doctor's, they don't know jackshit okay. I-I- You can do this, I kno-"

"Matt... it's okay."

"No, its not." He sobs. "How could you leave me. It's not fair." He cries into my bed. "It's not fair, it's not fair. It should've been me."

"Shh, no it shouldn't have."

Matt hiccups. "Y-Y-es."

You feel hopeless, all you can do is stroke his hair and reassure him that it's going to be okay, when you both know damn well your not telling the truth.

Once Matt had calmed down, he rested his head on your bed, right next to your bandaged shins. Both of you were holding hands, his thumb stroking yours. You both were just staring at each other, no words to convey the amount of love both of you were pouring out of your tired eyes.

Suddenly Matt quietly speaks up, drifting his eyes from yours and onto the crisp white bedsheets. "I don't think I'll ever be able to move on from you." He mumbles. "I-I just... You were with me through everything. I can't comprehend how you're not going to be here one day, a-and it scares me that when you are gone-" He tremors again and you just hold his hand tighter. "That I won't know what the point of everything is without you. You're my everything a-and you're just gonna leave me." He starts crying. "I don't want you to leave."

"I don't want to leave either Matt. I don't- I don't want to die." You cry with him. Everything hitting you all at once.

Eventually you both fell asleep and when you woke up medics were by your side. You glance at Matt's sleeping figure then around to look at everyone. "It hurts."

A nurse crouches down to face you. "We're going to give you painkillers, so when you pass it doesn't hurt as much."

You nod, and you can feel tears falling down your face. "Okay." This was real. It was happening. "H-How long do I have left... To live?"

The nurse looks at you sympathetically. "Judging by your vitals we estimate a couple hours." She reaches out and caresses your hair. "It'll just be like falling asleep. In the meantime we'll all leave and I'm going to unhook you to some of these machines, so you can at least be more comfortable."

You can only nod. Your whole body is flooded with pain and you realise that this is it.

You're going to die.

You can feel Matt stirring, just as the nurse unhooks you off the last machine, and everyone leaves.

"W-what's going on?" All of a sudden he's alert and checking his surroundings.

All you can do is softly smile at him and try your best not to burst into tears.

"Matt." You manage out. "It's happening."

Matt swore his whole world fell out of place. You continued. "They um- They gave me pain medication so I won't feel it and the-the nurse said it's like falling asleep."

"How long?" Matt felt like he didn't even recognise his own voice.

"A couple hours."

Matt gulped, but it felt like he swallowed a rock. "So what are you going to do?"

"Lie with me... please?"

Matt didn't even feel the rough scratch of your sheets or heard the creak of the bed. Facing you he said, "I can't even process this."

"So don't."

He just nodded and went down under the covers further. "Can I please hold you?... Just one last time."

It took everything in you not to start sobbing right there. "Yes Matt. You can."

So he gently took your body and moved it towards him, cradling you into him and holding you like if he lets go you would leave. Because you just might.

He was gonna miss you.

God, he was gonna miss you so much.

After an hour you spoke up.

"What were we going to do if we got to Central."

Matt looked down at you and smiled. "Well, last time I went I saw the prettiest bookstore ever and I instantly thought of you, so I figured that would've been our first stop. And of course, knowing you that would eat up a couple hours."

You laughed a bit, which made tears form in Matt's eyes. He's never going to hear that again.

"And then what?"

Matt sniffed. "And then I made a dinner reservation."

Your eyes gently shut and your heart rate slowed.

"Best carbonara in town. So naturally I had to take you there. Uh- It was an outside booking, and already a nice day, so I thought you would've loved it."

"Mhm, keep going." Snuggling into his warm chest, trying to ignore the pain shooting through you at a rapid pace.

"And then there was this park." He said softly. "Big open area, moonlit pond... fairy lights."

You smiled into his chest, the pain becoming numb as you felt it slowly encase you. "That sounds beautiful."

"It is, you would've loved it. They have little paths where you can walk around." You felt your pulse slowly fade. "And when we would get to a spot, I would hold you and tell you that I love you. And that I want to spend the rest of my life with you. That your all that matters to me. I would list every little thing I love about you. Your hair, your eyes, your joy and how much you make my life better. You know why sweetheart? Because I love you. I love you so much okay? So whenever you feel like you have to let go, just know that I love you and that I will always love you, forever and ever and ever......"

"Y/n?"

"Sweetheart, are you awake?"

"Y/n? Oh my god, no, please."

"Y/n please wake up. Please."

"No, not yet."

"Not yet."

"Don't leave me."

"I love you."

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧.˚ₓ

Rain was pouring down heavily, as Matt got out of the car, double checking to see if he missed anything.

Matt felt heavy as he stepped along the gravel path, trudging towards the place where he spent most of his time.

He gently sat down next to you, ignoring the uncomfortable wet soil. Staring at you Matt remembered one of the things he bought and held it up to you. "I got you more flowers." He softly smiled. "I know your probably sick of them by now but they were half off so, you know."

Sighing he plucked at the grass in front of him. "Not much has happened. Except, you know Alisha? From my management team. I told you about her a couple weeks ago. She's new. Anyways, she-uh... She asked me out on a date. A-and I told her I'd think about it. She's great but... she's nothing like you." He mumbled. "I don't think anyone's ever going to be like you."

There was a brief silence until he spoke up again.

"Do you remember when I told you I'd never move on from you. I-It's true. Nothing can ever compare to you... But I know, for reasons I'd never understand, you would've wanted me to move on. So I thought I'd do this as um... closure? Just in case, but one of my biggest regrets is never doing this sooner because I was too scared." He lightly chuckled.

Matt stood up and reached into his pocket, suddenly feeling nervous.

"At Central." He whispered just so you could hear. "After the dinner and after we would explore the park and find the spot. And I was gonna tell you how much you mean to me and how I want to spend the rest of my life with you." Matt slowly pulled out a small box from his front pocket. "And then I was gonna get down on one knee and ask you to marry me." He whispered. Matt opened the box and gently placed it on the soil, littered with flowers he got you.

"I hope you would've said yes."

He stood in front of your grave.

"Goodbye, sweetheart."

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧.˚ₓ

"If you think about it, it'll be over in no time

And that's life."

WHEW

No bc I sobbed so hard writing this like goddamn

Shoutout to whoever said to put this out or they'd touch me wtf😃

But you guys rlly loved part 1 so here is your finale <3

Stay tuned see ya

#christopher sturniolo #chris sturniolo #sturniolo x reader #matt sturniolo fanfic #matt sturniolo x you #sturniolo fanfic #nick sturniolo #matt sturniolo #nicolas sturniolo #matthew sturniolo #sturniolo triplets #Spotify #frank ocean #white ferrari #angst #sturniolo angst

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lqvesoph · 2 years

Text

treat you better (pt. 2)

paring: charles leclerc x reader

Summary: After Charles sneakily gave you his number you meet up with him in a café near the harbour and you start to talk about various things

this is purely fiction!!

masterlist

"I shouldn't text him, right?", you repeated for the 50th time. Layla was already fast alseep in her bed, while you and your best friend sat on your balcony.

It was Wednesday, three days since the Monaco Grand Prix. You'd told your best friend about the interaction with Charles, ending with telling her he secretly gave you his number.

"No", your friend simply replied, sipping her whine. You huffed with a frown on your face. "You're no help at all!"

"He's a super hot Ferrari driver, the girls are throwing themselves at him and he's Max's rival, while you are a 24 year old woman, who has a 3 year old daughter with a Red Bull driver. Literally everything I've just said should give you the answer", she said, looking at you with a raised eyebrow.

You sighed and leaned back in your chair. She was right. You shouldn't text him.

Yet, you picked up your phone from your lap and clicked on the brand new chat with Charles.

"You just texted him, didn't you?", your best friend asked, not even looking up from her whine glass. "Yes. Yes, I did", you groaned and let your head fall forward on the table.

Until your phone buzzed. The sudden sound made you jump and lift your head up again. "He replied!!", you called, probably way too loud.

"Careful or he can hear you", your best friend chuckled humorless but leaned over to look at your screen.

You smiled at the conversation, giggling at his last message.

"You're screwed. You are so screwed!", your best friend mumbled and leaned back.

"I'm nervous, I'm nervous. What should I do? Help! I should just cancel!!", you called hectically. You ran around your living room, panicking.

You'd agreed to meet up with Charles for breakfast, as we was in Monaco before the next race in Azerbaijan.

He's been texting you every day since you started last Wednesday.

"Calm down, Y/n! It's gonna be fine", you friend tried to calm you but failed miserably. "I haven't been on a freaking date since... I don't even remember the last time I was on a date!", you hiccuped, panicking even more.

"Like what do you even talk about?"

You best friend grabbed your shoulders, making you stop and look at her.

"Calm down, alright. It's all going to be fine. You're going to put on your shoes and walk down to the cafe, where you agreed to meet. Then you're gonna have breakfast and talk about your life, what's going on, what's going go happen in the next few weeks and maybe even about what has happened in your life so far", she spoke quietly which surprisingly calmed you down a little.

"But please don't trauma dump him just yet", she added with a smirk, making you crack a smile.

She gave you a last hug before you parted ways. You took a deep breath and started walking towards the cute café, where you and Charles had agreed to meet.

It was morning, around 10am and the streets weren't as busy as usual. The sun shone as bright as ever but the through the light breeze coming from the sea, the heat was bearable.

You walked past the harbour, already spotting the café, you saw Charles sitting on one of the tables close to the window.

You smiled at the sight of the boy who was wearing creme coloured trousers and a blue shirt. Around his head was a black bandana.

Charles looked up when you walked closer to the table, a smile breaking on his lips and his face brightening.

"Heyy", he smiled, standing up to greet you with a hug. "Hi", you mumbled, breathing in his sweet scent.

"You look amazing", Charles told you while pulling out the chair opposite from him for you to sit on. You chuckled a little. "Thank you. You look good as well", you replied, secretly admiring the way he looked with that bandana.

"How have you been?", you awkwardly tried to start a conversation which made Charles chuckle and nudge your leg with his. "We've been texting for over a week straight, stop being awkward", he smiled, making you laugh a little.

"I'm sorry", you tried to defend yourself with a smile. "I haven't done this in a while."

'Actually never since 10th grade but he doesn't need to know that' you thought, focusing back on him.

"Pardon? Qu'aimeriez-vous commander?", a brunette waiter asked.

"Je vais prendre un cappuccino, s'il vous plaît", Charles replied, while you admired how his voice sounded when he spoke french as you've only ever heard him talk english.

"I'll take a cappuccino, please", you smiled up at the guy after he, and Charles, stared at you for a second. He nodded and left.

"You don't speak french?", Charles asked surprised.

You shook your head with slight embarrassment. Charles opened his mouth in faked shocked. "Wait I thought you're from the Netherlands!", he called.

You nodded. "But don't you speak french there?", he asked, a frown on his face. "No, that's Belgium", you chuckled, biting your lip.

Charles' blank expression made you laugh. "But- I thought-", he stuttered. "I speak dutch, german and english. My mum's from the Netherlands while my dad's from England", you explained to him.

"I always thought it's the Netherlands where you speak french", he thought out loud, still baffled by the fact his thoughts weren't correct.

"But- for how long have you lived here?", Charles then asked. You thought for a second. "I moved here after I finished school, at 18. So, around 5 years ago", you calculated back.

"And you still don't speak french?", he asked, slight amusement on his face. "No, stop it", you laughed, nudging his knee again with yours.

Charles raised his hands in defence. "I'm sorry", he laughed. "Why did you move here?"

"School, I studied Media Management", you answered, avoiding to mention Max being a reason as well.

"Became more of an influencer then tho", you chuckled, pointing at your stomach. Charles understood. "Did you still finish your degree?" he asked interested.

You nodded. "I did, I just don't know what to do with it now", you laughed, making the boy laugh as well.

"Tell me more about your family", he demanded with an interested smile, looking at you through his shining green eyes.

"I've got a sister, she's 19. Lucy goes to university in the Netherlands. And a brother, Toby, he's 26 and lives with his husband and daughter in Australia", you told him.

"Voilà, vos cappuccinos. Voulez-vous aussi des gateâux?", he asked. You looked at Charles questioningly, not understanding the question.

"Can you-" "Oui, Y/n, tu veux un gâteau?", Charles teased with a smug grin. You rolled your eyes and nudged his knee. "Charles!", you laughed.

"Nous prendrons un gâteau aux framboises, s'il vous plaît. Avec deux fourchettes, merci!", he replied to the waiter who left after. "What was his question?", you asked, still admiring his bandana.

"It's a surprise", Charles smiled back, crossing his hands on the table and leaning back in the chair.

"I hate you", you smiled, making the boy across from you laugh. You quickly looked up when the same waiter came back with a huge slice of raspberry cake on a white plate.

"Voilà", he said, placing down the plate in front Charles. "Merci beaucoup", he smiled up at the guy again, his dimples showing again.

"You said raspberries are your favorite", Charles said, remembering the conversation you had a few days ago.

"I did", you smiled, trying to hide your surprise over the fact he still knows it.

He scooted the plate in the middle of the table and handed you one of the forks.

"Thank you", you mumbled, taking the silver fork and taking a bite from the cake. Your eyebrows shooting up in surprise. "It's so good!", you called, quickly taking another bite.

A pleased smile plastered on Charles' face, happy to make you smile.

After you finished your cake and Charles paid, you try to convince him differently but he had already pulled out his card and talked to the waiter in french, totally ignoring your english complaints.

Together you left the café, Charles holding open the door for you, for which you thanked him.

Silently you both agreed to not leave each other just yet and instead take a walk along the harbour.

"It's so peaceful", you mumbled, closing your eyes and enjoying the light breeze coming from the sea.

You didn't see Charles watching you with loving eyes. "Something that doesn't happen often", he replied, standing next to you and looking over the many boats and yachts anchored in the harbour.

"Where's Layla?", Charles asked when you kept walking. "Uhm", you stuttered. "With Max."

You weren't ready for Charles' reaction, so you kept your eyes on the road in front of you.

"Do you mind me asking what happened between the two of you?", Charles carefully spoke after a few seconds of silence. When you didn't answer immediately he started panicking, thinking he went to far when he didn't mean to.

"You don't need to obviously. That's something very personal, I don't know why I asked. I'm sorry", he started to apologize hectically but you put your hand on his to calm him down.

"It's okay", you send him a smile, your blue eyes meeting his green ones.

"I got pregnant when I was 20. It was rather a surprise and things became rocky after I told him. He was at the beginning of his Formula 1 career and didn't want to raise a child. We broke up before Layla was born. He never really was her father. He takes care of her occasionally but mainly he just pays me the money for her that he needs to", you explained your past, scared for Charles' reaction to it.

"That's awful of him! You getting pregnant wasn't your doing alone, he's responsible as well!", Charles called with a frown.

"He was never good with responsibilities", you added, only now realizing your hand was still linked with Charles'.

"And what does Layla think about all of this?", he wanted to know. "She's still to young to fully understand what's going on but I've always said I want her to have contact to her father as long as she wants that as well. When, at some point, she decides she doesn't want anything to do with him then I fully accepted that but I don't want to take Max away from her just because him and mine relationship isn't the best. I already hate it that she has to listen to our arguments from time to time", you explained.

Charles stopped in his tracks and turned to you. "You are way too good for this world. Most people probably would've taken their child away from him by now but you want her to decide when she's older", he smiled. You looked down, not being able to hold eye contact with his beautiful green eyes.

"I think it's the right thing to do", you mumbled. Charles out two fingers under your chin and made you look up at him. "It is", he confirmed, looking into your eyes.

The sun was setting behind you, the sky having turned purple pink and the familiar sound of soft waves clashing filled the air.

Charles looked down to your lips and back up to your eyes. Yours were still focused on his red lips.

"I really want to kiss-" "Do it", you interrupted him before he was even able to finish the sentence. Charles smirked before placing his lips on your own.

Your hands were on his waist while one if his held your cheek and grazed his thumb over your soft skin.

The kiss felt natural and safe. Something you haven't felt in years. You felt safe, right here next to the harbour of Monaco, in the arms of Charles Leclerc.

📍Monte Carlo, Monaco

liked by: charles_leclerc and others

@y/n: noon in monaco

comments:

fan: The cake looks delicious!!

fan: That city is just so beautiful

fan: People say she was there with Charles

→ fan: Charles who?

→ fan: Charles Leclerc, Ferrari driver

fan: Look at his story, there's a picture at the same place!!

→ fan: Are they dating?

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tell me if you want to be added here <3

#charles leclerc #charles leclerc x reader #charles leclerc one shot #charles leclerc fluff #charles leclerc gif #f1 x y/n #f1 x reader #charles leclerc imagine #f1 imagine

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doromoni · 8 months

Text

Hunting Affections

Charles Leclerc x photographer!reader

Max Verstappen x photographer!reader

Part 6.

fanfic + smau fic

y/n faceclaim : Hwang Eunbi

warnings : Ferrari bashing ( Im so sorry , the plot needs it 🥹) , mentions of abuse.

A/N : UP FOR EDITING 🤍

Summary; Love is but a concept — just connections of neurons that take part in the brain … and yet, why is it the most painful when one falls alone?

Loving someone who doesn’t love you back , until you can’t no more. Maybe then they’ll actually know what they’ve lost.

Ignorance is medicated by knowledge and experience — but ignorance can only be cured when the problem is seen and acknowledged.

I used to think that I was just what you made of me, thinking that what I’ve accomplished was because of your influence. You were sensitive, I wouldn’t say that you were insecure, no— you just had the tendency of being self righteous and self serving , I grew in fear that I would’ve taken a piece of your spotlight, so I hid in your shadow … always so quiet and obedient.. But I guess , I now know that i was also at fault, I was ignorant of how you made me so dependent to you and your actions.

I liked to think that I grew apart from ignorance, being enlightened by my own wrong actions and thoughts. Braking the chains that hindered me from living life— the chains that you’ve shackled on me. Maybe, it wasn’t your intention to cage me and poison me with your affections… maybe you’re we’re ignorant , just like I once was. But your ignorance is still no excuse.

I could only hope that you find your own peace and fulfillment . Because I have found mine, and I will be selfish this time and I wont ever let go.

———

Majority of racing fans see Red Bull Racing as the evil power hungry villain of Formula 1 , that and all people in its team are hateful scums of the motorsport world . When in fact , they are the most kind and loving team I have had the chance to work with — where people who treat each other with respect and warmth no matter their organizational hierarchy . But do not get me wrong , the other teams aren’t bad … it’s just Red Bull has its business and employee relationships balanced to a tee.

Moreover, the issue of sexism had been rampant in the motor world, that is already a fact, yet I felt both seen and understood in the premises, in walls of the Red Bull Office… who would’ve known. My presence here was not for a diversity hire or some agenda. I was put here to actually innovate the Red Bull Racing brand and pull my own weight.

Never in my career in motorsports have I felt so appreciated and significant enough to be treated correctly , most specifically in this moment , that sadly I cannot say hadn’t happened before .

I was discreetly pulled from my meetings to talk face to face with Christian Horner. All the possible mistakes I could’ve made came rushing in to my mind. It hasn’t been a week since I’ve officially worked for the racing team , yet here I am walking towards the office of the CEO and team principal of Red Bull Racing.

With a deep breath , I gently knocked on the mahogany door that separated me from my possible dismissal.

“Christian, its Y/N”

“Oh , yes yes . Come in!” Christian’s voice echoed through the thick wood. Slowly opening the door , there I saw my boss with his back pressed on the plush leather material of his office chair ; a hand perched on the bridge of his nose as he signaled me to sit.

“ So , am I in trouble? Why did you need me?” I gave an awkward laugh as I tried to lighten the mood

“It’s about Max” Memories of the meetings and debriefings of relationship lectures from the Italian team came to mind. The lectures were harsh and are mostly one sided , as the fault was somehow always pushed to me ; even if I wasn’t entirely involved , but who could they have blamed? Charles? He was their golden boy — so the nearest person to point to was me. It was always me.

Just like muscle memory, my words instantly echoed.

“I’m so sorry “ slipped from my mouth.

My hands trembled as I waited for the unending reprimands to be more careful not to taint the team brand and all the crap that followed.

But, nothing came … Christian’s face contorted to a face of confusion and perplexity

“…For what? “ He then asked leaning a smidge forward ; his chair squeaking a little.

“Oh … uhm , you said something about Max? I’m assuming that I did something to dirty his image?” I said slowly, now also confused.

“What? No! Max’s image has never been better., Well not if we couldn’t cover this issue. I called you here because I wanted you to work closely with the PR head to cover a fight with Max and other drivers”

my brain stop working , as I heard the words Max , fight and other drivers, slowly connecting the dots ; my mouth spoke before I could realize

“WHAT?! Is Max okay?! How did that happen??”

“Max , is physically ok .It was after the press conference. It was between Max , Leclerc , Daniel and Oscar . We couldn’t get any of the drivers to talk … We were hoping that you could talk to Max.”

As I processed his words , the dilemma of professionalism and personal life came tumbling down and the distinction between the two are becoming blurry. The trauma of working for Ferrari with Charles once again came rushing back.

“Sir, are you asking me as an employee to interrogate my boyfriend? “ I asked , swallowing my nerves . Hoping that what I was thinking of was no where near the truth.

“No y/n , I’m asking for you to see If Max is alright and If he would like to sit out the practice races tomorrow … and if he does open up to you about the fight, then you are not obligated to tell us anything without Max’s consent” As Christian said those words , I let out a breath that I didn’t know I was holding in; the huge weight leaving my shoulders , because even if they had asked that of me I refuse to betray the person that I love for my career.

“Thank you, Christian. Where is Max right now?” I asked standing up .

“He’s currently inside his driver room — he’s not allowing anyone to enter. Well we hope you’d face a different outcome ” Christian said as he walked me out of his office.

I chuckled at his statement , a very typical Max Verstappen move. Not that he doesn’t want anyone to near him, he’s just afraid that he might say something wrong in the heat of the moment ; something that I’ve learned to handle in the years that i’ve known the Dutch Red Bull driver.

“Hey, Christian… thanks for not asking me to break Max’s trust” I said as I hesitated going out the door.

“Of course, kid. Max is family and now you are too.” He said as he ruffled my hair, earning a groan and a swat from me.

— — —

Pacing through the Red Bull motorhome in a mix of a jog and sprint , I made my way towards Max’s driver room.

And right outside the door was Mary : Max’s Pr manager, pacing back and forth as she spoke to someone on her phone.

Her eyes met mine , and in an instant she was in front of me

“ Oh thank goodness! , y/n! Finally ! you go talk to Max , please . I need to sort important matters about the issue, which of course will be debriefed in our meeting later… alright bye!”

And just like that , Mary was gone . And once again I am facing a mahogany door, only this time it was my boyfriend on the other side.

I raised my knuckles towards the door and gently knocked. Pressing my ear towards the door

“My love , it’s me . What happened? Can you open the door” I heard rustling, but there was no reply.

“Max, please open the door, love . Remember what we agreed on? Communication is the highest priority, please love, let’s talk”

then a soft click and a knob twisting was heard , as the door opened I was then pulled into his embrace . Max’s head buried in my neck , as I felt wetness and heard soft sniffles, Max was crying.

Suddenly alarmed with the severity of the situation, I instantly wrapped my arms around him , a hand softly brushing his hair ; saying soft reassuring words in his ear.

I continued to hold Max tightly in my embrace, as rouge tears slowly fell from my eyes. hurt filling my heart at the sight of the person I love breaking down. Briskly wiped the tears from my cheeks, I heard Max mumble.

“Max?” I asked as I gently maneuvered his face towards me , cradling his cheeks and wiping his tears away with the pad of my thumbs.

“I- I lost control, and I hit him. I punched Charles … I’m sorry. He was insulting you and I-i … it just happened. I was so angry … and I enjoyed doing it., am I really a monster?” His voice broke . A gasp fell out of my lips as my eyes fell to Max’s knuckles , they were bruised and bleeding from the cuts.

The conversation that we had about physical violence came to mind. Max had entrusted me with the knowledge of the extent to which his father had used physical violence to discipline him in his childhood. They’re relationship was better now… but the trauma still stays. Max had sworn to no longer resort to physical violence , he didn’t want anyone to go through what he had before.

“ Shhh, shhh Max, my love . It’s alright. Everything is okay , you’re okay. You didn’t enjoy hurting him , you fought for me, you protected me… that’s it my love, that’s it . You’re not a monster , you never were and you never will be. Max you’re the farthest from it . My love, I’m sorry that you’re facing this because of me. Im so sorry” I lifted the his busted hand and gently pressed a kiss to his wrist.

Guilt suddenly came twisting my stomach, bile rising to my throat. Because of me , Max had done what he hated the most. Im so sorry Max.

“N-no , I don’t regret protecting you , Schatz. I regret my way of doing it. You will always come first.” Max’s change of attitude gave me whiplash. Gone were the tears and vulnerability. The look of determination overcoming his entire feature, he looks so determined for what? Am not so sure.

“My love , what do you mean by that?” I asked as I searched the answer in his eyes.“The track , Liebling … the track” a grin now stretched his face.

“Max , please think straight .You don’t need to do anything “ I said as I once again raised a hand to his cheek softly.

“It’s my job to protect you, My Schatz” Max said , now pulling me closer in his embrace.

“Yeah , yeah … but who treats your wounds, huh? Big baby, please be safe” words muffling as Max pressed my head to his chest. The worry never leaving my mind.

y/n_stills.

Liked by redbullracing, maxverstappen1, schecoperez and 1,427,995 others

y/n_stills. I didn’t sign up for this @redbullracing I was promised 2 normal drivers. But good job on P1 and P2 on practice 3 I guess

tagged : @maxverstappen1 and @schecoperez

user1 not you using these pics 😭.

user2 y/n outing the red bull drivers. i love it!

user3 Keep em coming @y/n_stills.

y/n_stills. You’re welcome children

maxverstappen1 wow… thanks dear

y/n_stills. Love you 😘 @maxverstappen1

redbullracing you’ve signed the contract

y/n_stills. unfortunately :))

redbullracing excuse us?

y/n_stills. nothing ~ thanks for the snacks 😘

user1 y/n is continuing the beefing with motorteams saga 😭

schecoperez thanks y/n

y/n_stills. you are welcome checo 😇

danielricciardo the sarcasm is so nice 😇

maxverstappen1 you’re lucky you’re not here @danielricciardo

landonorris oh, are we bullying @y/n_stills.?

alexalbon another reason why I don’t regret leaving Redbull. 🫶

y/n_stills. I hate you all >:(( and @alexalbon? lily wants a word with you 😇

mclaren our drivers are well behaved 😇

y/n_stills. Im giving the fattest side eye. 👀

landonorris I am well behaved!

y/n_stills. This u?

landonorris … touché

danielricciardo what did I do??

y/n_stills. @danielricciardo fault by association

oscarpiastri but i’m good right? @y/n_stills

y/n_stills. You’re safe for now @oscarpiastri , little papaya… better watch your attitude 🤨

user4 y/n is not playing y’all HAHAHAHAH

user5 she ain’t holding back fr fr , the grid should watch their back 🤣

user6 everyone say thanks to y/n for giving us driver interactions.

user7 it’s great to see Redbull’s wacky side tbh~ they are not as evil as people make them to be .

user8 they literally instantly cut off their second drivers.

user9 @user8 woah thats statement is baseless, they do give them chances for the drivers to prove themselves… at the end of the day the goal is to win.

scuderiaferrari work for us again

y/n_stills. I don’t go back to my exes , sorry ☺️

user1 SIDE EYE

user2 did y/n really just 🫣

user3 THE TEA IS HOT , y/n your never escaping the rumors , girl.

mercedesamgf1 get it line! you already let her go once smh

user4 which ex 🤔 hmm ? Don’t be shy y/n , which ex.

y/n_stills. 10 mins

viewed by maxverstappen1 , charles_leclerc, landonorris, and 2,729,691 others

story replies

maxverstappen1 Thank you, Liebling! I love you 💙

y/n_stills. love you more 💙

maxverstappen1 lmao no.

y/n_stills. Emilian 🤨 Excuse you? Dafuk you mean , no?

maxverstappen1 no, because I love you more.

y/n_stills. Your love disgusts me 🙄

maxvestappen1 well then be ready to be disgusted for the rest of our lives.

y/n_stills. Woah wut?? Max?

y/n_stills. MAX?? Hello??? You don’t get to dip after that

y/n_stills. max max max max

y/n_stills. safe driving … luv u 💙

maxverstappen1 Love you more 💙

y/n_stills. ugh I hate you >:((

oscarpiastri make em chow their last ka-chow?

y/n_stills. You’re too young to understand top tier humor , oscar

oscarpiastri I’m literally 1 year younger than Lando and 3 years younger than you

y/n_stills. Yes and still a baby

oscarpiastri Wowwwww. Ghee and you’re old, mom

y/n_stills. Watch your mouth, young man 🤨🤨

oscarpiastri sorry mom

y/n_stills. That’s better! Good luck with qualifying ,little papaya 🧡 drive safe

oscarpiastri thank you 🧡

charles_leclerc seriously y/n , stop it

y/n_stills. seriously charles, move on.

charles_leclerc do you honestly not miss me at all?

y/n_stills. nope, so stop whatever you’re doing and be happy with what you have.

charles_leclerc you’re just confused

y/n_stills. Dude? You’re the one who’s confused . For the last time, leave me aloneeeeeee . I swear I’ll block you and file a restraining order.

f1wags

Liked by user1 , user2 , user3 and 168,281 others

f1wags Y/N L/N spotted with Victoria Verstappen today in the F1 Paddock! But the Red Bull Senior Designer is not in a Red Bull Uniform , I see. It looks like y/n is a full time wag today and she is off duty. Go support yo man, girl! 😏

Y/N L/N was a no show today at FP3 , which had fans curious and speculating of the photographer’s absence on the grid . But the curiosity of fans are quickly satisfied, as it was reported that y/n is indeed within the confines of the Red Bull motorhome offices , catering to her responsibilities to Red Bull. Nevertheless, she had shown support by posting congratulatory memes of the 2 Red Bull drivers on her instagram account.

Moreover, it looks like we will be in fact seeing more of y/n l/n but this time within the confines the Red Bull Garage; as a support of Max Verstappen and the whole Red Bull crew!

user1 it’s great to see that y/n takes her job seriously.

user2 we do love a boss bitch

user3 Red Bull had hit the home run with y/n fr fr

user4 a professional queen 🤍

user5 she supports Max both emotionally and professionally, we love to see it

user6 you know what I love the most? Right after her work , she said bye to the uniform

user7 I mean, no one can stop a fashion icon 😎

user8 she’s so extra , I love it HAHAHAHAH

user9 Im in love with her jacket! Someone please tell me where to get it pls pls

user10 Brunello Cucinelli … and the price hurts 😀

user 11 I always forget that they are literally loaded

“ So everybody , welcome back to Formula 1 . It’s a sunny day , no rain forecasted for today’s qualifying. Teams are stowing away their slicks and wet tires and our drivers are all at standby in their cars as they wait for the firsts qualifying session to officially start.”

“ I must say, Crofty . Our drivers are quite tense today during FP3, and even yesterday during the practice sessions; specially our drivers in red .The Ferrari Garage not particularly happy with Charles Leclerc’s rookie mistake during the 4th turn — almost causing a collision with his own teammate Carlos Sainz.”

“Ferrari was not having any of it! the drivers were called to pit instantly— was this another lapse in strategy? Or perhaps a driver error? I cannot tell, the issue was not brought up to the FIA… I mean it’s their own teammate. Very aggressive on Leclerc’s part, I might say”

“ And do you know who’s also driving aggressively during the free practices? Max Verstappen and Checo Perez — I believe that Christian Horner is loosening the reigns on his drivers. There were no radio calls to the drivers when both cars were given warnings for impeding Leclerc’s car during free practice 2 yesterday “

“ Also , another impending incident had also happened to Charles Leclerc, only this time it was by the Mclarens, By rookie Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris .They were also only left of with a warning by the FIA , as the both Mclaren were bound to enter the pits.”

“Wow , wow, The FIA is very lenient with the teams this Grand Prix… but what an unlucky session for Charles Leclerc, They could only hope that his chances in qualifying would be better”

“ First one to go out of the garage is the 7x Champion Lewis Hamilton , and not long after is George Russell. Both Mercedes are out of their garages and is waiting at pit-lane exit. Along with Fernando Alonzo’s Aston Martin.”

“And out goes Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari and Max Verstappen goes next, last year’s pole position and winner”

“Will he be able to do it again? Will Max Verstappen be able to grab another pole and another win?”

Max’s eyes never left the car infront of him , his gloved hands flexing on the Red Bull steering wheel. Body fueled with adrenaline

Mind zeroing on the red Ferrari, til the radio sound came on and the voice of GP sounded,

(Radio conversation are italicized)

; Max we are with you. Do what you need to do;

;Thanks guys, will do. I’ll keep it clean, tell checo I said thank you;

;Thanks Max, will relay your message to checo;

Max’s eyes came to view the Ferrari’s side mirror , to see Charles already looking at Him ; eyes glaring with rage. Max scoffed , lifting his visor — staring back with no fear nor regret.

“Oh, a radio from Max to his engineers, “say thank you to perez”. What could that mean?”

“And that starts the first qualifying session for this week’s Grand Prix!”

***

“ 17 minutes in Q1 and all cars are out of their garage with Lando Norris is currently leading and Piastri 0.100 seconds behind his team mate. 1 minutes left in Q1”

“Oohh! And Charles Leclerc spins out to the gravel… the wing might’ve taken some damage on that turn. It looks like the car is beached! Let’s look at it in another angle .Ferrari could only hope that Leclerc’s time will get him to Q2”

;MERDE!! THE CAR IS UNDERIVABLE!

; You’re pushing the car so recklessly!! Go back to the garage!;

;Fix this, Oversteers like shit…;

“ And that’s the checkered flag! Sargeant, Zhou, Magnussen, Hulkenburg and Ocon . And that is it for Haas and both Alphatauris are in q2! Leclerc barely making it! “

As Q1 had ended, both Red Bulls are called back to the garage and asses damages.

;That’s P3 , P3 , Max. Don’t push the car … let’s conserve the tires for now , Leclerc has been beached;

A scoff escaped Max’s lips.

;Copy;

Heat, sweat, the roar of the engine and enraged shouts filled the Ferrari garage. Charles Leclerc was seen in an argument with his engineers and mechanics — tension within one side of the garage grew rampant as the mechanics scramble to replace the front wing of the car.

Q2 was not any better for Ferrari, barely qualifying both drivers to Q3. Having everyone confused at the driver difference — as Sainz qualified in P4 while Leclerc qualifying P9.

“And welcome back to Formula 1 , We are starting Q3! Verstappen , Perez , Leclerc , Sainz, Norris, Piastri, Alonzo, Hamilton, Russell and Stroll battling for pole position”

“And that’s 12 minutes on the clock! And Half of the cars are on the circuit”

“ Hamilton sets the fastest 1st sector and 3rd sector , while Piastri sets the fastest 2nd sector!”

***

“And that is the checkered flag! The drivers have 1 one more lap for qualifying!”

“LECLERC TAKES THE FASTEST TIME! That’s P1, and Sainz crosses the line! That’s P2 and P3 for Oscar Piastri!— an amazing drive by the Ferraris!”

Everyone was tense at the red bull garage as they wait for Max to cross the finish line.

;Max , your currently in P7 , P7 , thats P7. You can do one last lap , send it Max;

;Copy, copy, where’s Leclerc?”

;Currently P1;

Max’s fingers flexed , a smirk growing in his face.

“Max makes the fastest 1st sector, and the 2nd sector…. and that’s the fastest 3rd sector!! And max crosses the checkered flag! ”

“AND THAT’S P1 FOR MAX VERSTAPPEN ! MAX TAKES POLE AGAIN! “

; What position was that?;

;That’s P1! P1! You got pole Max. Nice driving!;

; Amazing job everyone , let’s do well in the race;

“And that Qualifying! P1 for Max Verstappen, P2 for Charles Leclerc, and P3 for Carlos Sainz!”

The three drivers parked their cars to their respective places . The spaniard came rushing to hug Max , excitedly patting the Dutch driver’s back while the words “great driving” and chuckles were exchanged. The spanish driver parted from Max, then nudging the pole sitter towards the car of Charles .

The 1st Ferrari driver was getting out his car, clearly fuming. Max went near the Monegasque driver only to whisper “That’s for Y/n”, then moving away not once looking back.

“Max! Max! Congratulations on getting pole today! How does it feel to be in pole in this circuit again?“ Max went to answer the question

“Getting pole was amazing , specially this one… this holds a significant meaning to me personally.Today had been great , the car was amazing to drive ; and the team was as cooperative as ever.”

“Also Max, People had noticed that you were particularly motivated today? Is there a particular reason for that?”

“Well it’s always a motivation to win for the team , for all their hard work and all the time they spent making sure that the car was to its best. Also my friends and family are here to support… and of course my girlfriend who’s in the garage cheering me on right now”

Max answered smoothly with a practiced smile , as Leclerc was fuming from his peripheral vision.

“Ah ,of course! Y/N! A dear friend of ours here at Sky Sports! And lastly , any words for tomorrow’s race , Max?”

“Winning is always the goal , so yeah , We will try our best to keep the adding wins to the record. Thank you”

Max turned his back to the camera , handing the microphone to the Monegasque Ferrari driver — a face splitting derisive grin plastered on his face further infuriating the Ferrari driver.

“Thank you Max! We now have Charles Leclerc here with us! So Charles, how does P2 feel?”

Charles wanted nothing more than to storm out and leave the interview , as his face grew redder by the second .

“Well , its not better than pole. To be honest I’m very disappointed with the results.”

“Still an amazing effort for the team! That’s P2 for you and P3 from your teammate, right? Basing from the previous races, Ferrari had brought serious upgrades”

“Yes , but it is not enough for pole. But we will do our outmost best to beat Red Bull in tomorrow’s race. That I am sure. Thank you” and with that Charles went storming back to the Ferrari garage

“Oh! Uhm.. thanks Charles! Next we have another Ferrari Driver, Carlos Sainz on P3! So how do the upgrades feel Carlos?”

“I personally thought that the car was great compared to the last car during the last Grand Prix… the upgrades worked. We are very far from the Red Bull level of machinery, but we are getting there ….”

y/n_stills.

Liked by maxverstappen1, redbullracing, oscarpiastri , and 728,627 others

y/n_stills. Another pole for you , love! Amazing driving as usual. Couldn’t be prouder 💙

P.s you didn’t have to show off, just because I’m here 🙄

tagged : @maxvertappen1

maxverstappen1: I mean that pole was for you :))

y/n_stills. 🥺🥺🥺

redbullracing a motivated Max is a scary Max

y/n_stills. Boy you said it 🥵

maxverstappen1 🫣🫣🫣

landonorris ew, keep it in your pants

y/n_stills. go cry somewhere else , norris ~ we are happy here.

comments are limited

—SPORTS HUB DAILY—Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc sparks fire within the Ferrari Garage

Article by Joseph Bens

Ferrari Driver Charles Leclerc was seen to be having a heated argument with his team, despite qualifying 2nd for the race this Sunday. The team statement was that they are happy with both of their drivers’ performances during the qualifying. According to Sainz , the car was very pliable and relatively easy to handle— and so we can rule out Leclerc having major issues with the car.

The Monegasque was reported to be unusually touchy and erratic based on fan reports as he was very adamant not to sign merchandise and interact with fans. The usually friendly driver was then seen storming off the circuit with alleged girlfriend scurrying in tow .

An inside source had tipped that an scuffle had happened between the drivers last Thursday, after the driver press conference , between Leclerc and Verstappen . The details of the fight were unknown, but it was said that Verstappen came storming out of the room — followed by Daniel Ricciardo, Oscar Piastri and a bloodied Charles Leclerc. The FIA not taking action as the incident was said to be just that, an incident and the drivers involved has refused to release a statement.

The Red Bull driver and the Ferrari driver are bringing heat on and off track! And we cannot wait for it to unfold. Tomorrow’s race would be one to watch indeed!

———

——— F1 Breaking ———

Ferrari appeals for FIA investigation towards Red Bull Racing and McLaren Racing for Impeding and possible brake checks

139 notes · View notes

agendabymooner · 8 months

Text

AGENDABYMOONER'S DIRECTORY: CHARACTERS

NOTE: THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR THE 400 FOLLOWERS! Oh my god. As I said, this was just some sort of self-indulgent blog but I am so glad to share my work with you. Thank you all so much for being there and to everyone who likes them so much they were more than willing to engage in my fangirl phase/behaviour/whatever. I am so glad I've entered the F1 realm all those months ago lol!

To remove all of the confusion to my work, here's a character directory 😭 I'm really sorry for that.

Letting you guys know that some of them may be in the same universe but they are not as heavily connected to each other (the only ones who are connected to each other more are The Alessandros and The Hearth Sisters - Trish is only connected in one thing and that's the Rush Wedding Special)

CHARACTER DIRECTORY

THE ALESSANDROS (rushverse)

LORELEI HESTER ALESSANDRO-RICCIARDO: Måneskin bassist. Also known as Lester Allie. Has her own set of fans in F1 as she’s an ambassador for Scuderia Ferrari. Is the middle child of the five kids. Daniel Ricciardo’s other half.

MC from Rush Series and its other extras (9 To 5, Wedding Special, Mrs. Ricciardo Special)

KARA ELEANORA ALESSANDRO: Second oldest sister of Lester. Also known as Nora. A businesswoman. She has a fashion brand. Has two children: Gabriele, 4 and Maris, 2 as of 2024. Divorced before Maris is born. Has been dating George Russell since February.

MC from His Family and Her Lover

JACQUELINA ALESSANDRO: Also divorced and has two sons: Franco, 8 and Andreas, 6. Also known as Lina. Is a model in Italy. She’s quite content being a mother.

NICOLA GRAZIA ALESSANDRO: born in 2000. Known as Cola or Grazie Nichols. An author who works for Tilly’s publishing company as an editor. Recently moved to London and is currently dating Lando Norris.

MC from London Boy and its other parts.

MATEO ALESSANDRO: The only boy and second to the youngest before Cola. He lives and breathes with his equally unhinged in-law, Daniel Ricciardo.

THE HEARTHS (rushverse)

TILLY MARIE FORD WOLFF: 39 Y/O as of 2024. The eldest Hearth sister. CEO of the Hearth Automotive Groups and the founder of The Wolff Publishing. She was previously a journalist and communications liaison but had abruptly made a change in her career path after purchasing half of the Red Bull Racing. She owns 20% of both Scuderia Ferrari and McLaren Racing, as well. She’s married to the owner and general manager of Mercedes team, Toto Wolff, and has three kids with him: Soren (age 8 as of 2024), Tia (age 5), and Adelmo (age 2). Her company does not fully associate with the FiA as to avoid rumours of bias and corruption within the Formula Racing community. Her net worth increased to 5.5 billion after her company sales skyrocketed.

Main character from Colour Me Your Colour series and its extra features.

STEVIE MARLENE FORD HAMILTON: 31 Y/O as of 2024. The second to the oldest Hearth sister. Head of Communications in Scuderia Ferrari and a supermodel with little to no time. Owns 10% of the said team with shares purchased under her investment company, The SMF Association. Married to Mercedes Driver Lewis Hamilton and has a daughter named Lottie. Has a net worth of $164.1 million as of 2024.

MC from Thick and Thin fic

SYLVIE EDSON FORD-VERSTAPPEN/HEARTH: 27 as of 2024. Executive Director of Red Bull Racing’s non-profitable kids/charity programs. Also known as the Wild Mustang or simply Blue for doing a donut in her mother's 1985 blue mustang convertible at the age of 10. Could have been F1’s first female driver since Maria Teresa de Filippis had it been for her expulsion in the academy. Known for her slight dislike for Christian Horner. Max Verstappen’s demise. Net worth is currently at $196.1 million.

MC from To Loathe and to Love series and its extra features.

AIMEE YAEL EDMUNSON: 25 as of 2024. Media Communications Officer of McLaren Racing. The half-sister of Tilly, Stevie and Sylvie. The only Hearth sister who doesn’t enjoy being in front of a camera. Works hard alongside Charlotte to keep Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in line instead of wandering off. Had to leave from the 2024 season early due to her pregnancy. She’s currently dating Charles Leclerc and has two kids with him: a set of twins named Hervé and Jules Leclerc. Net worth is currently sitting at $91.2 million.

MC from Of Long Lines and Names

AMARA LOUISE EDMUNSON: Aimee’s mother. Businesswoman and owner of several businesses all across the globe - including luxury stores such as Harrods and Selfridges. She raised Aimee alongside Blanche and Aimee’s half-sisters. Much like a family, Amara would take the four as a whole when it comes to trips and thinks that Julius Hearth is a sad excuse of a father. Amara is Tilly, Stevie and Sylvie’s second mother.

BLANCHE CHRISTIE FORD (formerly Hearth): the youngest daughter of William Clay Ford Sr. and the mother of the first three sisters. Owns 30% of Ford Motor Company but doesn’t act as an executive chairman. She, much like Amara, is a grandmother to Soren, Tia, Adelmo, Lottie and the Leclerc twins and would rather be a stay at home Nan to them. Amara and Blanche co-parented for the four and spent nights drinking wine whenever the girls were out. Some had assumed that the two were “very good friends” but who were they to judge or assume?

TRISH ALONSO: Is a professional wrestler who was caught up in the F1 and WWE drama back in 2000s because of a certain Fernando Alonso. Now has kids with the said man.

MC from Heaven and its other parts.

NOTE that she is not as heavily connected to the Hearths and the Alessandros !!!

THE SAN PEDROS (rushverse) !

MAGDALENA SAINZ: Married to Carlos Sainz. A bit unhinged.

MC from Ride Home and its other parts.

PALOMA SAN PEDRO: Magda’s cousin who happens to be crushing on a certain Oscar Piastri (or the other way around?)

MC from Jollibee, Madrid and all the Romance Fiasco

NOTE: These lots are in the same universe as The Hearths and The Alessandros but they are NOT heavily connected to them.

VERA COPPOLA RAIKKONEN: Is married to the Iceman, Kimi Raikkonen, all while she had given birth to the loudest versions of him (and not drunk loud)

MC from Stop the World I Wanna Get Off With You

NOT heavily connected to the Hearths and Alessandros despite being in the same universe.

THE VETTEL SPECIAL

BELINDA HELENA ONG-VETTEL: 34 as of 2024. Also known as Bel Vettel. A billionaire who happened to be a celebrity, artist and a wife to a retired Formula One driver. She is considered a “Crazy Rich Asian” for growing up with money and her endless collection of Hermes bags that she seemed to treat as a fragile canvas. After years of trying and failing, she and Sebastian adopted a son named Kimuel, who was immediately addressed in the grid as Kimi Vettel. Some say that Kimi is a quieter version of Sebastian for his meekness and the sudden switch to cheekiness.

MC from Crazy Rich Wife and its other parts.

BARBARA ELISANDRA BLANCO: 25 as of 2024. Also known as Barbie. She happened to be 15 when Bel and Seb took her in as their foster child and continued to raise her as their own even after she turned 18. She moved to Switzerland with the Vettels after she was guaranteed a better life and opportunity to become a chef. She’s currently enrolled to study in Cesar Ritz College in Le Bouveret - which is a short drive every day so that she’ll have more chances to babysit Kimi, her two year old toddler adoptive sibling. Everyone thinks that she is dating Mick Schumacher, who would often make a visit to the Vettels home whenever he gets the chance. Mick obviously likes her, but does she?

MC from She’s Everything… And He’s Just Mick and its other parts.

ADA ABBOTT-BUTTON: Jenson Button’s wife who definitely made him work for two years straight for her attention. Is the founder of the organizations Arts for Youth and Arts for Kids

MC from the Mr. Darcy Type.

CARMELLA AYALA PEREZ: Miss Universe 2018 winner who happens to be married to a certain Sergio Perez and has two kids with him. Ambassador of Arts for Youth and Arts for Kids Mexico and Philippines.

MC from She’s Beauty, She’s Grace.

THE OTHERS (doesn't have any direct connection)

ALBERTINE PHILIPPA FRANCES SPENCER: Royally rebellious. She was born in 1996, months before her parents got divorced. She’s also married to a certain Mr. Esteban Ocon.

MC from the Royal Wildcard and its other parts

ENSLEY ZARA SOLEIL: Equally in love with Pierre Gasly despite having to make him work real hard for things.

MC from Newsflash and its other parts.

BORA McKINNON: Lance Stroll’s ex who happens to be a Kpop idol. Would probably get back together with Lance.

MC from Gotta Be You

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jessicaloons · 5 months

Text

Chapter 22:

‘Cause baby, now we got bad blood, You know it used to be mad love…

Masterlist - Previous - Next

TW: conversations about eating disorder

I woke up from Charles scrambling out of bed, phone in his hand, trying to be as quiet as possible and turned around, grabbing my phone. 7:13. Who would call this early after a race? I sat up and stretched a little, before I got up, grabbed Charles shirt and went into the bathroom. I freshened up a little and put on the shirt. I flinched a little when my phone vibrated on the vanity, leaving the bathroom, checking who texted me. It was Julie, texting me an agenda for this race week in Hungary. Before I could open the attachment, I heard Charles speaking fast and loud and very angry Italian. He didn’t understand why there’s a problem. He already told me. They’re being ridiculous. I slowly opened the door and walked outside. Charles stood in his living room, with his back to me, only in sweatpants, hand in his hair.

"Ciao." he hung up and threw his phone on the couch, he groaned and turned around, flinching when he saw me "Fuck! Lizzie! Don’t scare me like that!"

"Sorry! I just walked out and was about to say something when you turned around." I said and he chuckled a little before he opened up his arms, for me to snuggle into him.

"Good morning, pretty girl." he whispered against my head, softly stroking my back.

"Good morning, pretty boy. What’s going on in Ferrari-Land?" I whispered back and I could feel Charles tense up.

"Nothing you need to worry about." he assured me, gently pulling away "Can we go back to bed now? For a little while? I’m tired."

"Sure?" I said and he took my hand in his, leading us back to bed.

We snuggled into the pillows and I laid my head on his chest, his heart beating erratically, gently slowing down. His warmth engulfed me, his scent filled my nostrils and lured me back to sleep. After a while I stirred around a little, feeling hot and sweaty.

"Stop it." Charles muffled voice sounded through the silence of the room "Stop wiggling around."

"I’m hot." I whispered and he chuckled.

"I know, one of the many reasons why I love you."

"Ha ha, very funny. But no seriously, I’m really hot." I mumbled trying to get up but he pulled me even closer "Charlie." I whined.

"5 minutes, please?" he pleaded.

"Ok." I sighed and he pulled me on top of him, I buried my face in the crook of his neck and he put his arms around me, caging me in. He nuzzled his face into my hair and took a deep breath.

"Would I die right now? I would die a happy man." he whispered and his hot breath fanning over my ear mad me giggle.

"No one’s dying now, okay? Can we please get up now?" I said and he pinched my side.

"Okay, grumpy girl…" he mumbled and let go of me.

I cut some fruits into a bowl, eggs frying away in the pan, when Charles walked in.

"Smells amazing, what are we having?" he stood behind me, his arms snaking around my waist pulling me into him.

"Mashed Avocado on toasted rye bread with fried eggs and a little fruit salad, with or without yoghurt, however you like it." I answered and Charles hummed.

"I’m eating so much more healthy since you’re here more often! Andrea said I don’t even need the food plan from our nutritionists." he said and I chuckled a little.

"Yeah, JK worked with me on the way I’m eating since my eat-… since the accident." I said and he kissed my cheek.

"You can say it. I know about it. I think we all kinda knew it... we just didn't know how to help you..." he whispered and I turned my head a little, looking at him. Charles turned off the stove and turned me around, leading me away from it and gently leaning me against the counter, his hands on my waist, looking at me intently.

"I just… I don’t know. I didn’t think that anyone would notice… I didn’t think it was that… that…" I rambled a little.

"You didn’t think that it was that obvious? Mon amour, you always ate healthier than most people, but every now and then you loved to have your little cheat meal, some good pasta, pizza, fries! But in that time? You didn’t eat much at all… salad was the only thing I saw you eating, some fruits but that was it… I even thought that I heard you… in the bathroom, throwing up… but I read that it could be from the meds, the trauma… but when months after the accident nothing had changed? I just didn’t know how to talk to you about it? I was- I wasn’t sure how to approach you…" Charles said and I nodded slightly.

"I didn’t know myself… I didn’t thought it was an eating disorder, I just thought it’s… I just needed to lose some weight, you know? When I heard that I won’t be driving, I let a little loose, didn’t train as hard as usually, having a nice cheat meal more often. I saw that I had gained a little extra weight, but I thought it was not much, not noticeable. But it was apparently to some people. It was nothing more than little comments first, asking if I really should have a second serving, or another bite, and I thought maybe I just ate a little too much. But yeah I always stopped then. But the looks didn’t stop… although she never said anything directly, I still always felt her eyes on me whenever I ate something… so I began to eat less and less, skipped meals. But you- umm you practically forced me to eat sometimes with your smile and praise for the food and how you said I would love it and your awaiting look whenever I took a bite… but I knew it might’ve been too much so I- I had to get rid of it. And I thought it worked… I thought I wouldn’t gain more weight, but it didn’t apparently and after I heard her… I just felt like I had to leave… and work on myself." I looked down and Charles inhaled sharply.

"Was that the reason why you left with JK?" Charles asked quietly and I shook my head.

"No, I mean it was a part of it, JK saw how my behaviour changed whenever Camille was here, how I tensed up, became more quiet, anxiety overcoming me. But no, I- before the season started? When I stayed here with you, when we were starting to prepare for our new seasons, well and then only for your season… I heard her talking on the phone, probably with one of her friends, about me… that I was a- a bulky, fat, bitch and gained so much weight over the break, how it was annoying that I always was all over you… I don’t know, I heard it and my mind instantly said I had to leave, and when I looked at myself in the mirror I realised that she was right! She just said the truth, I was getting bulky and fat. I gained not just a little bit, no I gained a lot of weight. So yeah I left. I had to. At home I could control my eating better. There wouldn’t be someone who always wanted to know how I liked the food and gave me bite after bite of different stuff to let me taste…" I said quietly and Charles dropped his hands from my waist, taking a step back. I looked at him and his face was pale "Charles? Are you…"

"That was before your accident? I didn’t knew she was horrible to you even before… when Joris told me… it sounded like it started with your accident, before it was mostly about her being now the most important person in my life… but- but you left before the start of the season because of- because of something she said?" he almost whispered and I saw his eyes tearing up "It’s my fault… It’s all my fault. Everything that has happened to you- my fault. I did this to you… It’s my fault." Charles began to tremble. A tear streaming down his cheek as he looked down in shame. I stepped closer, cupping his cheek and gently wiping away the tear, but he turned his head away.

"Hey? What do you mean? What is your fault?" I asked him quietly and he scoffed.

"Your accident! Lizzie wouldn’t I started this fake relationship, situation ship, whatever the fuck you want to call it, with Camille she would’ve never be here with us? She couldn’t say and do all these horrible things to you! You wouldn’t have left that day if it wasn’t for me letting her in our lifes! Letting her in here! Letting her do this to you! Lizzie would you have stayed here that day… you would’ve never have your accident. That is my fault. I allowed her to push you away and then you almost died. Because of me. I did this t-…" Charles began to ramble but I forced him to look at me.

"Stop! Please! Stop saying that? It’s not your fault! I could’ve said something! I never had a problem with speaking my mind! I just could’ve told you what was going on! And it wouldn’t have happen then! But I didn’t! So if you want to blame yourself? Then you have to blame me as well! Okay? Please don’t feel guilty, Charles! Please!" I said, desperately trying to make him believe my words.

"I can’t, because it’s the truth! I did this! I should’ve never allowed her in. She shouldn’t have been a part of our life. Would I just have been not the biggest idiot on earth, I would’ve told you from the very beginning that I love you. And that for me it was always you, never someone else. Just you. We would’ve saved ourself a lot of heartbreak and drama! But most of all… you would be healthy, that damn accident would never happen! So yes Lizzie, this is all my fault." Charles closed his eyes. Silent tears streaming dow his face.

"Okay. Charles. Look at me. I only say it once, okay? I could’ve said something earlier as well. You weren’t the only one feeling this way! But I refused to acknowledge it, I pretended like I didn’t feel it. So if you could’ve said something earlier, then the same goes for myself! And like I said before. I could’ve told you how she treated me! But I didn’t! It’s not your fault! Nothing of it! You hear me? Please, please don’t blame yourself! Please stop that okay? I can’t bear the thought of you blaming yourself for what happened?" I looked him in the eyes and after a long pause he slowly nodded.

"But I need to apologise… please Lizzie, just let me say it once, please. I fucked it all up. I brought Camille into our life and didn’t protect you from her. I let it all happen! I’m so sorry Lizzie!" he pulled me into him, my face buried in the crook of his neck, inhaling his scent "I’m sorry for letting it all happen."

"It’s okay. Please don’t ever apologise for it again, it’s not your fault, okay? We’re good. We’re here. You and I. Everything else doesn’t matter anymore, okay? What happened? That’s in the past…" I pulled away and smiled at him, he smiled a little before be pulled me in for a gentle kiss.

"Okay…" Charles whispered softly against my lips. I wiped his wet cheeks and then cleared my throat a little.

"And now we eat…" I said quietly and he sighed and stepped away "Here, take the fruit salad, the bowls and the orange juice, I’ll bring the rest." Charles nodded and grabbed everything, leaving me alone. My mind was spinning with Charles words, the heartbroken expression on his face. But I meant every word I said. It wasn’t his fault. I let it all happen. I could’ve said something but chose not to. I really hoped he wouldn’t keep blaming himself for something that was out of his control. I shook my head and sighed, then turned on the stove again and finished up our breakfast, plated up our food, grabbed the cutlery and followed Charles.

"I’m out here." he said from outside and I walked out on the balcony "I thought we could eat here, the weather is amazing." the table was set and I put down the plates.

"Very good idea." I said and sat down.

"Cara mia that looks amazing." Charles said with a slightly hoarse voice, it looked like he was contemplating with himself before he took out his phone, taking a picture and I laughed.

"Are you turning now into one of those influencers who post their every food?"

"No, it’s for Andrea. To show him how healthy I’m eating." he rolled his eyes a little and put his phone down, pouring me some orange juice.

"Thank you."

We sat in silence, enjoying our breakfast and the warm morning sun grazing our skin, when Charles phone began to ring, he groaned and silenced his phone.

"You can take the call?" I said and he shook his head, when his phone began to vibrate again "Okay this is ridiculous, Charles! Someone needs to talk to you, pick up!"

"Fine!" he groaned and picked up the phone "What? Yeah. I don’t. Yeah. Whatever. Thanks for nothing. Yeah. Bye." he put his phone down and closed his eyes.

"Okay, will you please tell me now what’s going on at Ferrari?" I asked and he sighed.

"I have to be in Maranello, on Wednesday…"

"And?"

"We’ll film a clip for Vista, before flying to Hungary."

"I still understand why that’s bothering you?"

"They told me to come alone. It’s only Carlos and I and the film crew. Filming is during the flight and stuff."

Now it dawned on me. Alone. Without me. I wasn’t welcome in the jet. Of course.

"That’s fine? I just fly from Nice on Wednesday, no worries, Charlie." I smiled and grabbed my phone. Searching for a flight. Just that there was a problem. There were no flights. At least not from Nice to Budapest. I had to book a flight via Munich. I was thinking to myself if I not just fly to Munich and then there jump into the private jet of Felix and Co.

"Cara mia?" Charles said and I looked up.

"Sorry, did you say something?" I asked.

"I asked if there are any flights available?"

"Oh, yeah, plenty." I booked the first flight via Munich, deciding against flying with Felix, too many questions would be asked "I just booked a flight. It’s all good, really!"

"No, if we’re being honest, it’s not good…" Charles mumbled and took my hand in his, kissing my knuckles "I’m sorry."

"Don’t worry, okay? I’ll be fine!" I plopped a grape in my mouth and he smiled a little, right as his phone vibrated again.

"What now? God!" he grabbed his phone but the scowl on his face disappeared, replaced by a soft smile.

"Should I be jealous?" I chuckled and Charles squeezed my hand.

"It’s Fred."

"Vasseur?"

"How many Fred’s do you know?"

"What is he saying?" I grabbed my glas when Charles let go of my hand to text Fred back.

"Just checking in how I’m doing, we text every now and then." Charles smiled. He always liked Fred, when he drove for Sauber the two of them were almost inseparable.

"Felix felt really bad that he kinda kicked Fred out… although Audi offered him a position within the team… but he said that he already has a new position." I said and Charles looked up.

"What? Where?"

"You’re the one texting with him? He didn’t say more… so yeah, I don’t know."

"I definitely will ask him."

"Hey cara mia. I’m leaving." Charles kissed my forehead and I slowly opened my eyes "I’ll call you as soon as I’m in Maranello. And you’ll call me when you’re at the airport and then when you land in Budapest, okay?"

"Will do." I mumbled, pulling him down, hugging him "Drive safe and take care."

"Will do. I love you, pretty girl."

"Mhhh love you too, pretty boy."

"Alright, go back to sleep." one last kiss on my nose and he was gone.

I groaned when my alarm went off and rummaged around on the bedside table until I found my phone and grabbed it, turning the alarm off. I got up, took a shower and dressed up, eating some oats and fruits while checking my flight details.

"No. No. No… fuck!" I exclaimed. The flight from Munich to Budapest was cancelled. I checked for another flight to Budapest. Nothing today. From Zurich. Fully booked. From Turin. No flights. Genoa. Departure in 1.5 hours. Marseille. Departure in 2 hours. I was screwed. I flinched when my phone rang and dropped it, answering it in the process.

"Lizzie?" Charles. I grabbed the phone.

"Hi. Sorry I dropped you."

"Thanks. Did you sleep well."

"Uhhh- yeah. Yup. Just woke up."

"What? But you have to leave in the next minutes?"

"I- umm. I’m just messing with you. I just need to put on my shoes and then I’m good to go. The car should be here any minute."

"Okay, good! Text me when you’re at the airport."

"Yup. How far away are you?"

"Not even 2 hours away."

"Alright. Then drive safe. Talk to you later. Love you. Bye!" I hung up and grabbed my iPad, sitting down. I had to find a way. After half an hour of intense searching I found a solution. But I had to hurry up. I ordered an Uber. Put on my shoes. Checked my bag if I had everything, grabbed my suitcase, locked the door and left. I got in the car and we drove straight to the airport. In the car I sent Charles a text that I arrived but had to board soon and then it was go time. I made it in time and as soon as I sat down in the plane I took a deep breath. I looked out of the window, when a little hand poked my arm and I turned around. A gorgeous little girl, maybe 4 or 5, with chubby cheeks and golden locks smiled up at me, eyes big and blue.

"Hi, I’m Elodie!" she said in French, her voice sweet as honey.

"Hi Elodie, I’m Lizzie." I said and she looked at me for a moment.

"You are pretty." she said, cocking an eyebrow.

"Well, thank you. But not as pretty as you."

"Hmm. But you are so pretty that you are in a magazine. Are you a model?"

"A magazine? What magazine?"

"My brother has a magazine with you. It’s about motorsport. Are you a motorsport model?"

"Umm- no. Not really."

"Then you just look like that girl. I was wondering why a model would fly in a normal plane and not even in front where the rich people are." she laughed and I started as well.

"You are absolutely right, Elodie."

"Elodie, leave the nice Mademoiselle alone." the woman next to Elodie said and I smiled at her.

"Oh no worries. I really enjoy this conversation."

"Really? She just starts chatting with everyone! I never know how people will react." the mum said and I smiled at her.

"I was just like her when I was her age. It’s all good."

"Okay! Thank you!"

"It’s okay. I’m Lizzie, by the way."

"I’m Marie."

"Hi Marie, nice to meet you and your gorgeous daughter, Elodie." the girl smiled at me before she looked into her book, full of unicorns and fairy’s.

"Very nice to meet you too, Lizzie. Who’s not a model but a driver." I looked at her with wide eyes "My husband and son, are huge Formula 1 fans. We have to watch every race. And my son is a fan of yours."

"Oh wow! Really?" I smiled at her.

"Yeah. They are actually in Hungary for the next race…" she said, looking at me a little confused.

"Yeah umm, the flight to Budapest got cancelled and I checked every other connection, so I’m flying to Paris and there I will catch a flight to Budapest."

"Oh. Okay? I thought the life of a F1 driver would be more glamorous." she chuckled a little and I nodded.

"Well usually it is. But it was all a little last minute. And I know that if my team principal finds out about me being here he will be a little mad. But yeah. It’s like this."

"Your secret is safe with me."

The rest of the flight I talked a lot with Marie and Elodie and when the flight attendant announced that we would land soon, Elodie already said she would miss me. We took a selfie together and she said her brother would be so jealous, that’s when I had an idea.

"You said your husband and son will be at the race on Sunday?" I asked and Marie nodded "Here, that’s my number. Tell them to give me a call as soon as they arrive. I’ll give them a tour through our garage. And maybe I can get a hold of Charles, so that Pascal will meet his favourite driver."

"Oh no! You don’t have to do that! We can’t accept that!"

"Oh please! It would be my pleasure! Please!"

"Okay. But really only if it’s okay for you?"

"More than okay!"

As soon as we were at the gate and out in the arrival hall I said goodbye to the mother and daughter duo, waving to Elodie as she walked off. I went to grab something to drink and to eat and sat down on a little lounge area and checked the flight schedule. Boarding would start in 2.5 hours, plus the flight and drive to the hotel. Great. I would arrive long after Charles. My plan on keeping the way I got to Hungary a secret just failed. And just as I checked for any texts on my phone, I realised that my battery would die soon as well and my charger was nowhere to be found. Even better.

Charles POV:

After what Lizzie had told me, the guilt was eating away at me. No matter what she said, it didn’t change the fact that it all was my fault. I began dating Camille to make myself feel better. To not completely lose my mind over Lizzie. Telling myself over and over again that I couldn’t have her. That I would ruin everything. Living with the pain it caused me looking at her, knowing that she couldn’t be mine. Never. I brought Camille into our life’s because I thought I might be able to bury my feelings for Lizzie once and for all, as long as I have someone else by my side. Someone who would distract myself from my feelings for Lizzie. But not just that it didn’t work, it only made my feelings for Lizzie even stronger, no, that someone was making her sick. Physically. But also mentally. And I didn’t notice it. Nothing. Lizzie was suffering right in front of my eyes, but I didn’t see it. And then she had to flee. And almost died. Because of me. No matter how hard I tried. I always came to the conclusion that it was my fault. All of it. The whole way to Maranello I was mad. Seething even. Not just that I found out about how I was the one to blame for her accident and everything bad that happened after, no I had to leave Lizzie now behind as well, in her vulnerable state. I saw how she was more closed off, but she didn’t want to talk about it, said she was fine, it wasn’t true, but I knew her long enough. I knew that I had to give her a couple of days to digest it and then we could talk. But that had to wait. And why? Just because of a stupid video shoot she wasn’t allowed on board? Ridiculous. It was a punishment for her criticising Ferrari openly. And a punishment for me for not calling her out when I was asked about it. I drove through the gates and parked my car, Mia already waiting. I hugged her and we walked inside.

"Alright. You have to sign a whole bunch of cards and caps. Then there’s the pre race meeting and after that the flight to Budapest." she said and I nodded, walking inside with her. I sat down at the table, two boxes full of my photo cards and 2 even bigger boxes with my caps. I sighed and began to sign each and every card and cap. Only stopping in between to drink something or to relax my hand. It felt like hours later that I signed the last cap and put the sharpie down. Mia was long gone and I checked the time, the meeting would start in 20 minutes enough time to text Lizzie and have a little snack. I waited for Lizzie’s reply while munchin on the granola bar, popping the last piece into my mouth, I swallowed and walked into the meeting room.

"Shit, sorry! I‘m late, I thought you said 12…" I hastily closed the door and Mattia and Laurent exchanged some glances. I looked around. I wasn’t late, Xavi and the rest of the team weren’t here either. Only Mattia, Laurent, Carlos, his father, his cousin and 2 other men I’ve seen before but couldn’t place right now.

"No, no! You’re not late, we’re all just a little bit early!" Mattia scratches his head and I sit down "The rest of the team will be here any minute now."

"Yeah, I guess that’s our cue to leave." English with a Spanish accent, the two men got up. They shook hands with everyone, except me, saying something in Spanish to Carlos sr. who only laughed, then they’re gone. For some reason I had a bad feeling in my gut. The way Carlos looks down in his lap, not even looking up once at me. The smug look on his cousins face, while his father looks satisfied. Mattia and Laurent avoided my gaze.

"I hope I wasn’t interrupting something?" I said it to no one in particular.

"No, no, absolutely not. We were just happy we had the three Carloses here as translator." Mattia laughed and I just nodded as the door opened up and Xavi and the rest of the team came in. Followed by Sylvia, who only nodded to Mattia and then left again. As soon as everyone sat down the meeting started.

"Charles, could you please stay for a minute?" Mattia asked and I nodded and sat back down. The door opened again and Sylvia walked in together with two other members of our PR team and Mia, who looked at me with pity in her eyes.

"Charles, we need to discuss the situation with you and Lizzie…" began Sylvia and I cocked an eyebrow.

"This is only about the representation of Ferrari." Mattia said and I was confused.

"And what part does Lizzie play in that?" I asked as Sylvia unlocked her iPad and turned it around, shoving it in my direction.

Comments from Twitter, Instagram, comment sections from sport websites, some parts highlighted. As I read them I had to stop myself from smiling. People were saying that Lizzie was right with her critique, that Ferrari should hire her as strategist, better as team principal, but also some comments about how a fellow driver could insult the Scuderia like that without any consequences.

"I don’t understand?" I said as I shoved the iPad over the table.

"Her open criticism against Ferrari and Carlos are damaging our brand." Sylvia answered "She always criticised Ferrari, but since a couple of weeks it seems more personal. As a matter of fact, since Miami."

"You mean, since we’re a couple?" I clenched my jaw.

"Yes. Look, Charles, we as Ferrari gave you the green light for…" Sylvia began but I scoffed.

"You didn’t gave me the green light, I informed you, in private, about our relationship, I didn’t ask permission." I had to contain myself. I was already on edge with everything that was going on with Lizzie. I didn’t need this now.

"Excuse me, my mistake, that’s the wrong wording, what I meant was, we had no objections…" Sylvia began but I had to interrupt her again, groaning.

"What I do in my private life is none of your concern, I don’t care if you had objections or not. It’s my relationship." I looked to Mia who only spared me a glance and mouthed a "Sorry".

"Ok, you’re a bit upset, I understand. But her comments are bad for our reputation and we need her to stop. She can’t be associated to us while saying things like this." Sylvia was annoyed but I didn’t care.

"I’m not telling her what she can and cannot say. As far as I’m concerned she’s not associated to Ferrari in any way, not since she was removed from the FDA after her accident. And the public only knows that we’re best friends and she always fully supported me. That’s it." I said bluntly and Mattia sighed.

"Charles, with the results in the last weeks, we need to keep the Tifosi happy!" he said.

"I won 5 out of the last 12 races, twice I DNFd because of some technical issues or engine problems while leading the race, let’s not talk about Silverstone, where I still managed to be on the podium. Imola and France were my fault, I’m sorry! The other 2 races I was still on the podium… how can the Tifosi not be happy with me? Because my girlfriend criticises us? That’s ridiculous!" at this point I just wanted to get up and leave, after the many mistakes on their side in the last weeks and I still showed only love and support in front of the media for my team, they still wanted more. But right now I couldn’t give me. I felt drained.

"It’s not the sports side that concerns us, it’s the noise around. So please, talk to her, Charles." Sylvia’s words are final and I got up, but before I left I turned around.

"How fragile is the state of Ferrari, if the comments from one driver, a rookie, cause such an uproar?" and with that I left, heading to the office Carlos and I spent our time in when we were here.

A couple of minutes later Mia knocked at the door.

"I’m so sorry, Charles! They didn’t tell me what this meeting was about! Otherwise I would’ve warned you!" she said and I only nodded.

"I know, I know. It’s just… I regret telling them about us. But after Laurent saw us, I had no choice." I was mad at myself.

"Maybe when you explain Lizzie the situation? She doesn’t have to stop her criticism, but maybe not mention Ferrari anymore? She could say ‘some teams’ instead of Ferrari? I don’t want you to tell her what to do or what to say, especially not when everything she says is the truth! But I don’t want any more trouble for you!" Mia almost pleaded and I nodded.

"I’ll talk to her. But can you do me favour?" I asked and Mia nodded.

"There was a meeting before our team meeting with Carlos and his family, Mattia and Laurent and 2 Spaniards, I’ve seen them before but I couldn’t quite place them? Can you find out what’s going on?" I asked her.

"I will see what I can find out. The car to pick you up and take you to the jet will be here in 1.5 hour. I thought I arrange you a separate ride, not with the Carloses and Co." she smiled at me and I turned to her.

"Carloses?"

"Yeah? Carlos, his dad, his cousin? Carloses how we call them?"

"They’re flying with us?" I couldn’t believe it.

"Yeah? Mattia, Laurent and Sylvia as well?"

"You’re fucking kidding me?"

"No? Why? What’s going on?"

"Sylvia called Monday morning, telling me that Lizzie can’t fly with us to Hungary because Carlos and I will film a spot. Commercial. Whatever. And the jet needs to be empty? Only Carlos, I and a film crew?" I was seething. Did I leave Lizzie alone for nothing?

"What? No way?" Mia sounded surprised as well and took her phone out, furiously typing away on it "So, Callo said, that it was apparently planned… but they dropped it. On Monday. Enough time to let you know…"

"I’m not flying with them. I fly from Bologna." I was pissed, grabbing my phone to check for flights.

"As much as I would want that too, it’s not an option. The media team will fly from Bologna later today and that flight is already overbooked. You need to suck it up, I’m sorry!"

"I hate it. But- okay… Thanks Mia!" I hugged her and she nodded.

"Just don’t kill anyone! See you in Budapest."

I walked up the stairs into the jet and sat down in the back, two single seats opposite each other divided by a small table. I chose the one with the back to the rest of the jet and sat down, pulling my headphones out and a book. The flight attendant handed me a bottle of water that I put in the bottle holder when she walked away. I saw the Carloses, Mattia, Laurent and Sylvia getting out of a van and put my headphones on, starting my music, leaning back in my seat, sliding down a little and closing my eyes. Pretending to be asleep might work. I didn’t want to talk to them. None of them. I heard them get in, talking about the upcoming race and a potential sponsor being present and had to bite my tongue not to groan. Another sponsor on my helmet. Great.

"Where’s Charles?" Carlos asked and I just held up my hand "Oh, hi!"

I could see in my peripheral how he walked to me, sitting down in the seat in front of me. I took off my headphones and straightened up a bit.

"Last race before the summer break. I’m really in desperate need of a vacation." Carlos said as the jet was preparing for take off and I simply nodded.

"Yeah. Same." I looked outside but felt Carlos eyes on me.

"Ok listen, I know this tension between Lizzie and me is… well it’s… what I’m saying is, you and her are friends, that’s fine. You and me are team mates, so the thing between Lizzie and me… it shouldn’t affect us, right?" he looked at me intently and I contemplated my answer.

"I’m staying in the position I’ve been over the past few weeks, Carlos. When you and Lizzie want to fight each other? Do it. But it should be fair, like I said. If she goes too far, she should be punished. But if you go too far? Then you should be punished as well. It’s as simple as that. And if I’m being asked about it? That’s exactly what I’ll say. But Carlos? Just between the two of us, you should keep some comments to yourself. Your little gentleman’s joke wasn’t well received…" I said with a firm voice and he nodded.

"I know, I didn’t meant it in that way, it was more meant as I’m not a gentleman… I should’ve known that it would sound differently. I’m sorry about that. But yeah. I can live with that." he clapped his hands and I nodded "I’ll leave you alone, I just wanted to clear the air."

"Thanks Carlos, really." I said and put back my headphones. After an hour Mattia sat down in front of me and I sat up again, headphones back down.

"Are you okay, Charles? You seem to be a little… distracted?" he asked and I had to bite my tongue, before I would just explode. I only nodded, but he kept on staring at me.

"I’m fine Mattia, really." I said and looked out again.

"Listen, no one of us has any problems with Lizzie, we know how she is, that she always speaks her mind and protects those who she loves. All good traits. But this is about Ferrari. This team has gone through a lot over the past years. We really have to make sure that the Scuderia will succeed again…"

"And Lizzie criticising the team will prevent us from success? No, I think there are other factors. A lot of other factors." I said and Mattia cocked an eyebrow.

"I understand that you’re not fully satisfied with how some of them races went. But some things are out of our control. But that thing with Lizzie isn’t one of these things." he got up and left. The rest of the flight I was staring at my phone. Time ticking away. I just wanted to get out of this jet. Go to the hotel where Lizzie would wait and hold her close. Not letting go of her. Basking in her warmth.

"Charles? We have a dinner tonight. With a potential new sponsor. We need you and Carlos to attend." were the first words from Sylvia when we arrived at the hotel.

"I don’t know if I can make it. I really don’t feel good." I lied and Sylvia sighed.

"Now is not the time to be stubborn and rebel." she said and I looked at her.

"I’m not feeling good. My head is exploding, I feel like I have to throw up any minute and I’m tired. If you excuse me. I want to go to my room and lay down. Or do you want me to go to a dinner with a potential sponsor and throw up there? Yeah, didn’t think so." I went to the reception, got my key card and walked to the elevator. When I was inside I waved to Sylvia one last time before the doors closed. As soon as I was inside my hotel room I took out my phone. Lizzie hadn’t answered any of my messages. They were all only delivered. I tried to call her, but the call went straight to her voicemail.

"Hey JK, is Lizzie with you?" he picked up after the second ring.

"No? Shouldn’t she be with you?" he asked.

"No? She took a flight from Nice to Budapest alone, long story short, Ferrari, that’s all you need to know…" I sighed and sat down.

"Charles? There was no flight from Nice to Budapest today. That’s why I had to fly via Munich as well. I flew from Nice to Munich and met up with Felix and Co. Lizzie said she would fly with you yesterday?"

"What? No. She told me she would fly today from Nice. I couldn’t take her with me to Maranello. That’s why she booked a flight. At 11:20 departure from Nice, flight number LH1246?"

"Charles that was my flight to Munich and she wasn’t on it?"

"No. She said she was on her way to the airport! And then sent me a text later on that she was about to board the plane?" I began to panic "Why is her phone switched off? Where the fuck is she?"

"Calm down. We figure it out. Let me check in with Julie. I’ll call you back, okay?"

"Okay." he hung up and I got up. Where was she? Why didn’t she answer my calls? Messages? I began pacing back and forth in the room, waiting for JK to call back.

"Where is she?" was the first thing I said as soon as the phone rang.

"Umm- we don’t know. Calm down, okay? I’ll be there in a minute."

Right after the first knock I opened up the door, JK looked at me worriedly.

"Ok, can you please not look like something horrible has happened?" JK said and closed the door "Sit down and drink something. I’m serious."

"Where is she? She should be here for hours already!" the water bottle in my hand was shaking.

"Let’s wait for a little bit longer and then… I don’t know. We’ll figure it out!" JK tried to calm me down but I couldn’t shake the feeling that Lizzie was kinda behaving a little off since our conversation about her eating disorder on Monday.

"We talked about her eating disorder on Monday… she was kinda off since then? I don’t know. I’m just… JK what if something happened to her?" I ruffled my hair letting out a frustrated groan.

"You talked about it?" JK sat down next to me and I nodded.

"She was making breakfast and I don’t know, it came up and we talked about it. She told me why she was starting to eat less and less and also… well some things that were… what I mean is, do you think that she… would she do something…?" I couldn’t even speak out loud what my mind was imagining.

"No. She wouldn’t. Believe me." JK said with a firm voice and I nodded slowly.

We sat in silence for the next 30 minutes, both staring at our phones on the coffee table in front.

"It was good, that you talked about it, you know?" JK said after a while and I looked up "Her eating disorder. I mean sure, she’s overcome it, but it was still something she kept to herself, weighing down on her."

"I think we all kinda knew, that something was wrong? But maybe we were just too focused on her walking again, then anything else?" I whispered.

"Maybe… but it’s in the past. And now that you talked about it, it’s just another thing she can come to terms with."

"You think so?"

"I know so."

I leaned back into the cushions, eyes still trained on our phones, when I got a notification. I lunged at my phone, grabbing it. A relieved sigh escaping my lips.

"It’s from Lizzie." I opened the message "Please don’t kill me. I’m on my way to the hotel now. I’ll explain everything."

"She’s alright?" JK looked at me and I nodded.

"Yeah. Thank god." I shot a quick answer back and put my phone down "Thanks for waiting with me, JK. Really!"

"No worries, mate! But now that I know she’s alright, I’ll give you guys some space! See you tomorrow!" JK got up and patted my back, leaving the hotel room.

I took a quick shower, getting into some more comfortable clothes and ordered some food. Then I sat down on the sofa and waited for Lizzie. 10 minutes later there was a knock on the door and I jumped up, open the door. There she stood. Looking exhausted, but giving me her wonderful smile. A hint of guilt in her eyes.

"Hey Charlie…" her soft voice music to my ears. I pulled her inside, shutting the door and holding her close "I’m so, so sorry! Today was a mess…"

"Give me a moment to hold you…" I whispered and she nodded. I felt the tension falling off my shoulders. The worries fading away. My body relaxed into hers and I took a deep breath, my nostrils filling with her familiar scent, calmness washing over me "What happened, mon amour? You were supposed to be here long before me?"

"My flight was from Nice to Munich and then from Munich to Budapest, but the second flight got cancelled. I thought about calling Felix that I would join them in the jet, but… I didn’t wanted them to know that we weren’t arriving together. So I looked for some alternatives. Found a flight from Paris to Budapest. So I jumped into the next flight to Paris and waited there. But my phone died, so I had to turn it off for a while, I forgot my charger at home, but yeah now I’m here and I’m sooo sorry!" she explained quickly without taking a breath once.

"You were in an airport. Why didn’t you just buy a new charger?" I had to chuckled at the look on her face "You didn’t think about it…"

"No… I didn’t. I really hope you weren’t too worried…" she looked up at me, an innocent smile on her face.

"Umm- well… maybe a little? But it’s okay now. You’re here. You’re okay. I ordered food. It should be here any minute…" I kissed her cheek and she sighed.

"God yes! I’m starving! I ate half a pastry hours ago and that was it! Let me just take a quick shower. I’m sweaty and messy." she opened up her suitcase and grabbed some fresh clothes before she disappeared into the bathroom.

As soon as the food was delivered we sat down and began eating, while watching a movie. My phone vibrated more than once. But I ignored it and Lizzie didn’t seem to notice. The knock on the door on the other hand, I couldn’t ignore. Lizzie paused the movie and looked at me.

"You want me to go?" she asked when I didn’t made a move.

"No. It’s just… I know who it will be. Just stay back, okay?" she nodded and I got up, opening the door "Sylvia." I said through gritted teeth.

"Oh good, you’re alive. I just came to check in on you, after you didn’t answer your phone. See if you feel better. To come and get you. You know, the dinner?" she said smugly.

"I’m not feeling much better, but thanks for checking in. I was actually sleeping, that’s why I didn’t hear my phone. I had a nice soup, a hot shower and then went straight to bed." I said and she cocked an eyebrow.

"Charles, this dinner is important…" she began.

"So is my health. I’m a driver. I’m here to drive. And if I’m not resting, I’m not fit enough to do just that. That’s why I will go back to bed now. But thank you, really Sylvia, I appreciate it, that you came here, checking on me!" with one last smile I closed the door. I looked through the peephole and when she finally left I turned around, Lizzie looking at me.

"So, what’s going on?" she asked and I sat down next to her.

"They pissed me off. A lot. Now I do the same." I simply said when Lizzie took my hands in hers "It’s nothing, I promise."

"And that has nothing to do with Ferrari kicking me off the jet, but Carlos family was allowed? And Mattia, Laurent and Sylvia?" she asked and I was taken aback, looking at her "Carlos posted a story… that Ferrari reposted… so yeah…"

"That promo shoot was cancelled already on Monday…" I began but she shook her head.

"It’s okay. I’m not even surprised. Don’t worry about it! I’m here now. It’s the last race. Let’s make the best out of it." she smiled at me and I pulled her into my lap, kissing her soft and pillowy lips.

"Let’s make the best out of it…"

The weekend was a disaster. FP1 and FP2 looked promising. But FP3 was a mess. I began Q1 with a bad feeling and little to none confidence. And it ended sooner than hoped and planned.

"I’m out?"

"We’re out."

"No. I’m out. I fucked up. I’m sorry."

I drove back to the pits. Parked the car and got out. Apologised to everyone and left. Julie called after me but I walked off. Away. Just away. I stopped when I had no idea where I was anymore. I sat down on a box. Head in my hands. Last week I said I believed in karma, today it got served. I was becoming too cocky. Too full of myself. And too aggressive. P16. But with the 3 places grid penalty I definitely will get for impeding Carlos? P19. Rightfully so. Today I proved to literally everyone that they were right about me. I did not deserve my seat. Not when I made mistakes like today. Not when I let my emotions get the better of me. And not when I kept driving like today. I simply wasn’t good enough for F1 like this. I groaned and got up. The least I could do now was own up to my mistake.

"Julie? Can we go?" I said quietly and she turned around.

"Sure." was all she said and we walked into the media pen.

I took a deep breath when we walked first to SkyUK and Natalie Pinkham smiled at me.

"Hey Lizzie. Out in Q3 today. For the first time this season. What went wrong out there?"

"I made too many mistakes. First I tried to push too much and spun out. Then I didn’t wait for my race engineer to give me the all clear to join the track again, just drove back on, forcing Carlos to abort his fast lap, then I already had ruined my tires and returned to the pits got a set of new ones and headed out into heavy traffic and when it was time to put it all together I had a major lock up… so yeah I fucked up today. I’m sorry for my team who did everything to set me up perfectly today and I’m also sorry that Carlos had to abort his fast lap, I’m just glad that he still made it into Q2."

"One thing I, and I’m sure everyone else, noticed is that whenever you’re doing amazing on track, when you drive brilliantly, you always highlight that 'we did it' but as soon as it’s not working out as planned you switch to 'I did it, I messed up'."

"Yeah because whenever I do great on track, it’s because my team provides me with the car to do so, with the right strategies, right set-up, it’s a team effort. I’m just driving! But when something happens like today, where my team made everything right and I made a mistake, or more than one, then obviously the only one to blame is myself."

"I said it once before, you’re really harsh on yourself, aren’t you?"

"Rightfully so. There are only 20 seats available in this sport. I’m one of the lucky ones to have the opportunity and drive in F1. Others would kill for this chance. So I have to show that I’m worth of driving here, that I deserve driving here. But today I didn’t do that, today I wasn’t good enough."

"The race is tomorrow and I’m sure you’ll show your worth then!"

"I can only try my best and give 200%."

"I’m sure you will. Good luck for tomorrow, Lizzie."

"Thank you."

I walked together with Julie back in silence, I saw how she wanted to say something but always stopped herself.

"Say it." I said after a while and she looked at me for a moment.

"You’re way too hard on yourself. Don’t look at me like that. Lizzie, just because you had so many good results in the races before, even a win, that doesn’t change the fact that you’re still a rookie! And rookies make mistakes. It’s as easy as that. Stop dragging yourself through the mud! The media is doing that enough already! You had an amazing first half of the season! You can be proud of yourself!"

"Thank you, Julie. Really."

"I just want tomorrow to be over and then summer break here I come!" I said as I leaned against a stack of tyres.

"Oh come on! One screwed up quali isn’t the end of the world!" Matt said and I sighed.

"You still have the race where you can make up some positions!" Paul smiled at me and Matt nodded agreeing.

"Exactly! You got this! I see you tomorrow! Have a good night guys!" with that Matt left and I looked at Paul questioningly.

"You’re not driving back to the hotel with the rest of the crew?"

"No. I have a lot of pent up energy… I don’t want to go back to my hotel room…" Paul said with a grin.

"Umm okay? You’re going for a run then?"

"Hmm I don’t know? But some kind of work out for sure!" he winked at me.

"There’s a gym at the hotel? You know that, right?" I asked as a slightly annoyed Charles walked up to us.

"Can we go?" he asked without paying any attention to Paul.

"Sure. Have a good work out, Paul. See you tomorrow!" I smiled at him and Charles rolled his eyes.

"You up for a drink?" Paul asked me, but Charles shook his head.

"How very nice of you to ask, but we have a race tomorrow, so no drinks for us tonight. Good night." Charles voice was sickeningly nice. Way too nice.

"That’s not what I mea-…" Paul began but Charles had already slung his arm around my shoulder and we walked off towards the parking lot.

"That was so not you?" I said as soon as we sat in the car and Charles looked at me.

"What do you mean?"

"How you declined Paul’s invitation. That was too polite, even for you. Knowing that you seem to have kind of a problem with him."

"Sorry that I don’t really like it when another guy flirts shamelessly with my girlfriend and…"

"He’s not flirting with me! Charles we talked about him being not tired and doing some work out! How is that flirting?"

Charles stopped at a red light and looked at me intently.

"Oh my god… you- you didn’t get it?" Charles laughed.

"Stop laughing! What didn’t I get?" I pouted and he groaned.

"Cara mia, you are- you really didn’t get what he was saying!"

"Okay, can you please explain it to me then?" I was getting annoyed.

"He has pent up energy? He doesn’t want to go back to his hotel room? He wants some kind of work out? The invitation for drinks was actually just for you? Cara mia he meant the kind of work out you’re doing in a bed… oh come on Lizzie! Sex! He meant sex! He wanted to hook up with you!"

"What the fuck? What is wrong with you? Just because we talked about… no. No! You’re jealous over nothing! He didn’t mean- no!" now I really was annoyed.

"Lizzie he is flirting with you ever since he joined the team! You just don’t seem to get it!" Charles groaned.

"He’s not. Okay? End of conversation!" I looked out at the window as we stopped in front of our hotel and I got out. Not waiting for him.

"Lizzie!" Charles sighed as he followed me inside the elevator.

"When you say he keeps on flirting with me for weeks now, it would mean that I have sent him some kind of signals that he thinks that I’m available… and I didn’t do that! So no! He’s not flirting with me!" my voice was shaky. The last time someone said to me I was sending out signals and was flirting with him, although I didn’t do it, or at least thought I didn’t do it, ended up with me pressed against a wall and Diaz kissing me and…

"Hey? Lizzie? What’s going on?" Charles soft voice close to my ear made me stop my train of thoughts and just then I realised that he hugged me "Talk to me? What’s going on? You’re shaking like crazy?"

"Nothing. I’m good. Tired. Exhausted. But I’m good. Sorry. Tough day. Fucking quali." I said quietly but Charles sighed.

"When will you learn to just tell me the truth? Why are you so afraid of letting me in?" we walked to our room, Charles opening the door and letting me in first.

"There is not always a bigger or deeper problem, Charles! I’m annoyed that you think that I would entertain Paul’s flirt attempts and-"

"I didn’t say that? Lizzie, it’s just… you don’t see that he flirts with you, because- Lizzie not everyone is like you. Not everyone has this crazily mesmerising smile that makes who ever receives it feel special, I mean yeah there is another smile, that genuine one, the real one only reserved for some people, but still, your smile is almost intoxicating! And the way you act around people? You’re so carefree. Fun. The sweetest. You don’t have to send out any signals on purpose. Just your whole being is enough. And that’s nothing bad. Because you are like this to almost everyone. But most of the people get that it’s just how you are. But some people on the other hand… they just don’t care… and Paul is one of those guys. He flirts with you… like crazy."

"He’s not." I groaned and Charles rolled his eyes.

"Whatever." he mumbled and took off his jacket.

"Even if he would flirt with me, I wouldn’t care? I love you! And you know that? Why are you even worried?" I looked at him.

"Because it sucks! The way he looks at you, how he follows your every move. I’m not worried that you would do something, I’m annoyed that he thinks that he has a chance! Would he knew about me, he would stay the hell away from you!" he let out and I culled his cheeks.

"I love you. YOU. And if every single guy on this planet would flirt with me, I still wouldn’t care. They’re not you. I want you. Just you. Okay?" I smiled at him and he sighed, pressing his forehead against mine.

"Okay…" Charles said after a while and I nodded.

"Okay."

I woke up and checked the time. The alarm would go off in 25 minutes, no use to try to fall asleep again. I got up and had a shower, getting ready for the day. When I walked out the bathroom Charles sat on the bed. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

"Good morning, sleepy boy." I said and cupped his cheek, stroking it gently.

"Morning." he mumbled, easing into my touch "Since when are you awake?"

"Maybe half an hour? I didn’t want to wake you up, you looked so cozy." I smiled at him and he yawned.

"Would be even more cozy with you next to me." he got up, stretching his muscles before he disappeared into the bathroom to get ready. I packed my bag and as soon as Charles was ready we left, driving to the track. As soon as we entered the paddock Charles was swarmed by fans, with some fans of myself waiting as well.

"At every race there are more and more fans of yours! They finally start to support you the way you deserve it, cara mia!" Charles smiled at me as we walked to the team hospitalities.

"Yeah. I noticed that. It’s amazing, really! But also scary, because now there are even more people that I don’t want to disappoint!"

"You’re amazing! You won’t disappoint anyone! You’ll be in the points today! I know it! See you later, alright? Send me a text when you want me to show up!" he squeezed my arm and I waved him off, entering the Audi hospitality. I went straight to my room and sat down. Starting today from P19. 9 positions to points. I wish I could have as much faith in me as Charles had. But I had to at least try it. I had to give my all. And then the rest would come on its own.

"Lizzie? Your guests have arrived." Julie knocked at my door and I nodded.

"I’ll be down in a minute." I pulled over a team shirt, texted Charles and then left my room, following Julie. She stood there with a quiet handsome man and a young boy, who looked just like Elodie. His eyes wides when he saw me and I waved.

"Hi, you must be Pascal? I’m Lizzie! Your mum and sister told me a lot about you!" I stretched my hand out and he took it with a shaky hand.

"H- Hi, yeah I’m Pascal…" he said shyly and I looked at his dad.

"Hi Lizzie, thank you so much for having us here today! I’m Jacques." he offered me his hand and I shook it.

"Hi Jacques, nice to meet you!" I smiled at him and we began our little tour through the hospitality first, and then through our garage. The father son duo asking excitedly question after question. Some of them even I couldn’t answer, so I always asked someone around us to help out.

"Oh hi Lizzie, who are your guests?" Paul smiled at me as I approached him and the rest of my mechanics, working at my car.

"These are Jacques and Pascal. They are huge F1 fans!" I said and the young boy nodded.

"Who’s your favourite driver?" Paul asked.

"Charles Leclerc!" Pascal said quickly but then looked at me apologetic "And right after Charles, Lizzie!"

"It’s okay, I’ll tell you a secret, he’s my favourite driver as well." I chuckled and I could see Paul rolling his eyes out of the corner of my eyes.

"Yeah he’s not bad I guess…" he said.

"Do you want to sit in my car?" I asked and the kid jumped up and down in excitement.

"Yes! Please! That would be so cool!" he almost shouted it and I laughed, helping him in my car, explaining some of the buttons on my steering wheel.

"Dude! You can’t just walk in here like that?" I heard Paul somewhere behind me and turned around, he was blocking Charles from entering the garage.

"Actually, yes I can." Charles said, walking past him, Paul was about to say something but Matt shook his head.

"Charles is the only exception, mate, he can come and go whenever he wants." Matt explained but Paul just scoffed and walked away, mumbling some incoherent words.

"I heard there is a huge fan of me here today?" Charles asked and Pascals eyes widened, his mouth hanging open.

"Oh my god! You’re Charles! Charles Leclerc! Oh my god!" he screeched and Charles bent over, helping him out of the cockpit.

"That’s me, hi." Charles smiled and Pascal just stared at him "How did you like your little tour so far?"

"It was amazing! We’ve seen so many cool things and I was in the car and then you and Lizzie and the race! It’s so cool!" the young boys excitement was contagious.

After a big photo session and the signing of literally everything Pascal could find Charles and I had to leave for the drivers parade.

"Julie will show you where you can watch the race. You can stay here in the garage or go to the grand stand or switch in between. Whatever you want to do! I see you guys later!" I hugged Pascal one last time and then left, Charles waiting for me.

"Ready? Last race day?" he asked and I nodded.

"Ready!"

I switched everything off, shaking my head. Just a little more pace at the end and it would be P9. But at least Charles was right. I made it into the points. Barely. I sighed and saw Charles walking back to me. I unbuckled my seat belt, steering wheel out and stood up.

"P6? You were leading for a while? What happened?" I asked him as soon as I got out of my car, while he waited for me.

"A shit strategy happened." was all he said as we walked to our weighing.

"So nothing new then." I joked.

"Very funny." he was annoyed.

"I’m joking. Okay? I mean not really, but…" the look on Charles face made me stop. Before I could say anything he walked off and congratulated Max, Lewis and George and I followed him.

As soon as I hugged Max lastly I looked around for Charles, standing at the side, putting his watch and bracelets back on.

"I’m sorry, I didn’t want to tease you… it’s just, they screw you over again and again…" I began but Charles just sighed.

"I know, okay? I know! I just… I don’t want to hear it all the time!" he said and I cocked an eyebrow.

"From who? Me? You don’t want to hear it from me? Or what do you mean?" I asked.

"I know that our strategies are a mess! I’m the one who’s being screwed over by it. I don’t need to be reminded constantly! And I know that I will be as soon as this day’s over and it’s all over the media… you having said your part as well then… so I just… I don’t need to hear it twice." he groaned.

"Right. Well then I guess I better go and tell the media my opinion on how my boyfriend gets screwed over by his own team, you can read it then later on." and with that I walked off.

"Lizzie…" I heard him call out but I ignored him. Walking straight back to my garage, preparing for the interviews. Or rather preparing myself to not say anything about Ferrari, even when asked.

"What do you say about the Ferraris today?"

"They finished ahead?"

"Tyre choice?"

"Umm? I don’t know? What was with the tyres?"

"They pitted Charles for hard tyres at his second stop."

"Hard? The slow as f-… slow hard tyres? Why would they do that?

"No explanation given."

"Ferrari doing Ferrari things."

"They pitted Carlos for softs."

"Did they now? Interesting. But I don’t know what their strategy was. I don’t know what they had planned. So I can’t comment on that. Thank you."

I walked away. I already said enough. I saw Charles looking at me the whole time but did my best to ignore him. I knew that he didn’t want to let his frustration out on me. And I shouldn’t be mad about it. But something about what he said had stung. I didn’t even know what. When I returned to our hospitality I went straight into my room and got out of my suit, jumping under the shower to freshen up a little. Fully dressed I sat down next to Valtteri and our race debrief began.

"Lizzie? You’re okay?" Valtteri said after a while and I looked up. The room empty, only us two left.

"Yeah. Sure." I said and stretched a little.

"Come on, what’s going on?"

"Charles and I we had a little… I don’t even know how to call it… fight? Confrontation? Disagreement?" I sighed.

"Can I ask you something?" he looked me in the eyes and I nodded "You and Charles. Something has changed. Before Miami you never really cared how you hugged each other, or how you looked at each other. But since then? You’re more cautious. Careful with what you say, careful how to behave when you’re around each other… is that because you and Charles… are you two dating since Miami?"

"Umm- I… we didn’t- yeah. We are." I stuttered a little bit Valtteri just smiled.

"I’m happy for you guys, everyone knew that there is something special between you."

"Thanks Valtteri… but umm- as you might know, no one, or almost no one, knows about us…"

"I get that. You’re already a target for the media. Dating a fellow driver? I don’t even want to imagine how they would treat you then, considering on how they treat you already. It’s not right. They’re not right in general. What they say? Bullshit. I’ve never seen someone work this hard! You spent hours and hours in the sim to understand every little vibration of the car, you spent a lot of time with the engineers to know everything about every single part so you know on what to look while driving, to give the most detailed feedback. And then the way you’re driving? Outstanding. You’re amazing and I feel like you’re not getting the praise that you deserve."

"Okay. Stop now! You gonna make me cry!" I blushed hard. Eyes getting teary.

"Crying is nothing bad. It shows that you care. That this whole thing means something to you. That this is what you love to do most."

"I guess no one of us would be here if racing wouldn’t be our first love." I chuckled and Valtteri nodded.

"Yeah. But for you it’s not just racing. For you it’s more. It’s proving yourself over and over again. Something you shouldn’t have to do, but unfortunately with the way people are treating you… yeah. It’s a lot. But you’re doing amazing! You can be proud of yourself!"

"Thanks Valtteri! Really!" I smiled a little and he shook his head.

"This whole thing, F1, being a racing driver. It’s a lot. There are things about this life, not many know about it… it’s not all glitz and glamour. I’ve seen what people write about you. The things they call you. I know how that must make you feel. I’ve been through something similar. I got a lot of shit for my weight and how it would affect my performance… so I kinda developed an eating disorder. It was all in my early days in F1, when the pressure is this high, every little comment I would analyse and think about… so yeah, I started to work out obsessively, ate little to nothing, thinking this was the right way… but it wasn’t, of course not. So, if you ever feel like this? Like these comments weigh you down, the horrible things they say? You can always call me, okay? I don’t want you to go through the same shit like me, little one!" Valtteri looked at me sincerely and I felt tears in my eyes.

"Thank you, for sharing this with me… and thank you for being there if I need you! It’s… well I had an eating disorder myself… before my accident. It was horrible. Some comments were made and I believed them. It was all in my head, I know that now. But arg the time? No, I looked into the mirror and knew that it’s too much. Too much of everything… it was a fight, overcoming it… and even sometimes now my mind goes back to this mindset, thinking that a few pound less wouldn’t be a bad thing. But I’m in a much better place now, knowing that this voice inside my head isn’t always giving the best of advice… so I don’t listen. And if it’s hard to ignore, then I’ll talk to someone, knowing that you’re now one of these people feels good, someone who’s been through the same…"

"It really feels good to know… and now, I think we’ve earned our summer break! Come one! Let’s go!" he said and got up, pulling me off my chair and I hugged Valtteri.

"Go back to the hotel, calm down, give Charles some space and he will be by your side faster than you think!" Valtteri waved goodbye when he left the room and I took a deep breath, gathering my bag and belongings and left the track. Alone. Valtteri was right, I should give Charles a little time to cool down. He would come back to the hotel when he was ready. I took a long hot shower and ordered some food, put on a movie and snuggled into the sofa when I got a text from Kika, Pierre’s girlfriend, asking what Charles and I had planned tonight. I told her that Charles was still at the track, according to his text from earlier that he would come back late and I shouldn’t wait for him, Ferrari had a long meeting tonight. She asked if I wanted to join her and Pierre but I declined politely. I wasn’t in the mood to party. I just wanted to eat my food and watch a movie. All by myself.

Charles POV:

I sat in my room. Staring at my phone. Lizzie ignored me the whole time since after the race, not once spared me a glance in the media pen. Rightfully so. I was frustrated. I was screwed over again. Lately something that happens a lot. And I let it out on her. The only one who spoke up for me. All the time.

"Charles? We’re heading back to the hotel now? You coming?" Andreas head popped in and I shook my head.

"No, I’ll stay a little longer. See you tomorrow."

"Good night." Andrea left and I shot a short text to Lizzie. Just letting her know that it would be late until I came back. I wanted to give her some space. I left the track and drove straight to a pub. A small, dimly lit, Irish pub. Couple of streets away from our hotel. I sat down at the counter and ordered a whiskey and a beer. Not that I was a fan of it, but I needed something strong and something to wash it down. After the first whiskey, the second quickly followed. The bartender was about to hand me the third when my phone rang. Pierre. I sighed and picked up.

"Pierre."

"Charles? Where are you? Kika texted with Lizzie? Asking if you guys want to come with us partying? But you’re not with her? And she doesn’t know where you are? Where are you?"

"I don’t know. A bar. It’s nice. No one cares for me here. But you know what? It’s basically like at Ferrari. No one cares for me there as well…" I downed the third whiskey, signing to the bartender for the fourth, taking another sip of my beer.

"Ok. Umm Charles, you sound a little drunk? Are you okay?"

"I’m fine. Totally fine. The Publin is a nice place. Everyone is super friendly."

"Publin?"

"Yeah it’s funny isn’t it? It’s a mix of Pub and Dublin because it’s an Irish pub. Clever! That’s what these people are! Clever!"

"Okay, Charles, stay there and have a little more fun!"

"Will do! Have a nice evening with Kika! Tell her I really like her! You’re different with her! More laid back, fun. That’s good. Really good."

"Okay, I’ll tell her. Take care Charles!"

"Take care yourself!" I hung up right as I got the fourth whiskey "Thank you."

After a while I lost count on how many drinks I had, I just finished a beer as someone clapped on my back and I turned around.

"PIERRE! What are you doing here?" I got up and hugged him.

"Taking care that you won’t do anything stupid." he said and sat down ordering a drink.

"You’re a bit late for that." I sighed and Pierre cocked an eyebrow "Where were you after the race? Making sure I won’t let out my anger and frustration with my team on Lizzie."

"What did you do?"

"Well, my besties Sylvia and Mattia wanted that I talk to Lizzie. Make her stop criticising dear old Ferrari in public? Of course I don’t want to do that because she’s just defending me. God she’s so brave! And witty. Is that a word? Witty? If it is one, it’s Lizzie. And if not, it’s Lizzie." I took another swig of the beer, emptying it.

"So you told her off and she’s mad? I honestly can’t believe that? She would be mad at Ferrari? Not at you?"

"Yeah well I didn’t tell her. But after the race. When Sylvia saw me with Lizzie and gave me her look I just knew that she would be a pain in the ass later on, so I was frustrated, I mean the race itself was frustrating enough, but yeah I don’t know, I said something to Lizzie, that she doesn’t have to tease me now with the incapability of my team, I’ll just read it later from the news, because she will have her say in it anyways… so yeah. I’m an asshole." I closed my eyes and shook my head slightly, making my world spin.

"Oh come on, she was maybe a little mad, but that’s it."

"No. I think she was more hurt than mad? Which is even worse! Oh wait I got a text… oh it’s from Max? He’s asking where we are, they rented out the VIP area at a club…"

"Don’t you think you had enough? And also, don’t you think you should go back to Lizzie?"

"I’m giving her space! And now let’s go! The night is young! Let’s have some fun."

"I’m coming! God!" I pulled one of Charles hoodies over my head and sprinted to the door, opening it to a very drunk Charles, a smile bigger than the whole sky on his face and a very apologetic looking Pierre.

"Mon amour, I’m sorry that you are so stupid!" he slurred in a very heavily accented French "It’s not your fault! It’s Ferrari! The Scuuuderia! You know? The horse team?"

"Calamar, you just called your girlfriend stupid…" Pierre whispered while helping him on the couch.

"What? No? I meant I’m stupid? Lizzie? Stupid? She’s smart! You’re a funny guy Pierre! That’s why I like you… maybe even more!" Charles laughed and I looked at Pierre.

"What the fuck happened?"

"Umm? He got drunk? Because, his words, he’s an asshole who doesn’t deserve you? And if you would never talk to him again, he would deserve it?" Pierre said and I sighed.

"You’re a drama queen, Charles Leclerc!" I said and looked at him, while he held his hands up, making a frame and looking through it.

"No! You’re a queen! A sassy, beautiful, talented, strong, smart, sexy, oh so damn sexy, amazing and gorgeous queen! My queen!" he laughed and I blushed.

"Okay, that’s my cue to leave. Good night!" Pierre kissed my cheek and Charles whined as he walked off.

"Where’s my kiss?" he pouted and I burst out laughing.

"You heard him Pierre, where is his kiss?"

"I’m not drunk enough for that."

"Oh come on, you’re French? You basically kiss everyone all the time…" I joked and he groaned, while Charles was still pouting and making grabby hands.

"I hate you. Both." he chuckled and gave Charles a kiss on his cheek "Happy?"

"Very." Charles smiled and turned around, snuggling into the pillows "Mhhh they smell like Lizzie!"

"Yeah, I should leave!" Pierre waved one last time before he walked out and closed the door.

"Charles? Come on, let’s take a shower and then off to bed, how does that sound?" I held out my hand and he looked at it.

"Are we getting naked?" he wiggled his eyebrows, or more so he tried to.

"No, you are getting naked. I already took a shower hours ago. So up up you go." I pulled him up and he groaned. I lead him to the bathroom and helped him strip out of his clothes "Stand still! You’re worse than Liam!"

"Hey!" he pouted again and I laughed.

"It’s funny how I’m not allowed to pout while you do it quite a lot…"

"Because you look hot when you pout and I look… goofy…" he said while looking in the mirror behind me.

"Okay… whatever you say." I opened the shower door and gently pushed him in "Please sit down on the bench. I don’t want you to slip and fall. Thank you. Go ahead… I’ll be right back."

Showering and dressing up a semi drunk Charles was a task I would definitely compare to taking care of a toddler and when I finally plopped down next to Charles in the bed I was exhausted. I set my alarm and switched off the light.

"Mon amour?" Charles whispered and I heard the sheets rustling.

"Hmm?"

"I’m sorry, for what I said after the race… I shouldn’t have let my anger and frustration out on you. You out of all people… I know Ferrari said that I should tell you to stop criticising the team publicly, but I’m not doing that. You’re allowed to speak your mind… and I should be thankful that at least one person has my back and fights for me. I’m sorry… I really am."

"Charles, it’s…"

"No, it’s not okay. I should’ve never said that! I can’t even tell you how happy I am that I’m having such an amazing girlfriend! I love you, mon amour." he searched in the dark for my hand and as soon as he grasped it he pulled it to his face, kissing my knuckles.

"I love you too, Charlie. And it’s okay, really! Now sleep my pretty boy." I leaned over and kissed his cheek and he pulled me into him, my head on his chest.

I heard his heart beating beneath me, felt the slow rise and fall of his chest and after a while I heard his soft snores. I laid there for some time, sleep wouldn’t find me. I had to think of his words. Ferrari told him to shut me up? To tell me to stop criticising them publicly. Probably even threatened him with repercussions, just like I knew Sylvia. Maybe I should tone my criticism down a little. Or at least I could try it. A tender kiss on my forehead made me realise that Charles was awake and I tilted my head up a little.

"You think so loud, I couldn’t sleep…" he whispered in the dark and I chuckled.

"I’m sorry! I just… I’m just so happy that it’s summer break now. I really need to reset."

"I know. It was a crazy first half of the season. The next 3 weeks are just about us. Our families. Our friends. Sun. Beach. Fun. Relaxation."

"And you’re still not telling me what you have planned?"

"Just know that the first week will be family time. We’re all together!" another kiss on my forehead.

"Sounds good."

"Yep, it does."

"Summer break. Here we come."

Little Note:

Chapter 22 - a little filler chapter with not much happening besides the Ferrari drama… next chapter: SUMMER BREAK. Sun. Fun. Fluff. A lot of fluff. No really. SO. MUCH. FLUFF. (and maybe a little … ?)

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

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shaarlslec · 2 years

Text

friends

part 2 & part 3 here lovelies;

pairing: charles leclerc x reader (ft. pierre gasly x reader);

summary: Charles sees paparazzi pictures taken with you and a very drunk Pierre and that does not do him good although the three of you have claimed to be just friends.

words: 5000 ish

warnings: mentions of alcohol

masterlist

The three of you grew up together loving racing. You, loving to build the cars as your father’s apprentice and them loving to try the cars that you and your dad were designing.

When Charles got the spot for Ferrari, he took you and your father with him as two of his most trusted engineers, and quite drifted you apart from the young driver at Toro Rosso as you spend most of your time in the Ferrari garage. Since you got the job and Charles the seat, your friendship trio had its lows more than highs, but you still managed to keep being friends with both at and outside the circuits at parties, events, and secret getaways far away from the media.

It has always been Y/N, Charles and Pierre and you could not paint a picture of the future when that was not the case.

Your friendship with the two young hot boiled driven studs was challenging at times, especially when they fought over silly things or needed girl advice.

You loved every single piece of it.

When you were younger it felt like you had two brothers to protect you from all of the bad in the world, and sometimes two children to take care of for the rest of your life. You have been loving it since the day you met at the karting circuit and later when you witnessed their greatness through all phases of getting into Formula 1.

However, your favourite phase of them all must have been your teenager years when the dream of winning the world championship was further down the line for both.

You dearly loved the times where you three were young, unexperienced, and anxious about everything and all at once and that was because you seemed to be the most grounded one out of the pack, and the boys managed to hold on into that since then and never questioned your pieces of advice.

They often called you the mom of the group and you took your job very seriously without realising the amount of pressure you were putting on yourself to always take care of the two boys and solve their problems, even their girl problems. As it has always been said, boys mature later than girls and you three represented the living example of the saying.

“Yes, you are right, we need to follow the three days rule.” Pierre spoke, anxiously tapping his foot underneath the table and watching his best friend across it after stealing a glare from you who was seated in between the two boys, “You are a genius, Charles.”

You let out a soft laugh as you followed Pierre’s glare, you knew exactly why they were anxious about this time. They met two of their fans at the end of the race and the girls managed to slip their numbers into one of their hands, leaving the boys with the chance to text them. They both took the chance, and now that the exchange of messages between them and the two girls were successful, they needed a plan to invite the girls to hang out. You were even more unexperienced as them, having only the two boys standing in front of you to text or call at the sweet age of sixteen. And yet, somehow, they were both searching for answers on your face with their confused glares.

“Exactly! We need to keep them waiting for three days and then they will for sure want to go on dates with us.” Charles happily nodded, taking a quick look at you as well, “Right?” He then pleaded towards you with those puppy eyes of his, craving for you to approve him and his three-day rule.

You listened carefully before rolling your eyes and taking a deep breath in, “The three days rule means that you will not reply to any of your girls for three days straight and then expect them to say yes to you inviting them out?” You questioned, taking both of their phones from the table, and demanding them to unlock them with a sharp look.

“You dumb boys.” You spoke, searching first for Charles’ messages and then Pierre’s, “No girl likes to be left on read for three whole days, you are trying to play the hard-to-get card?” You questioned, already replying to the girls you knew they liked but were too afraid to ask out.

“You are both handsome drivers, and within five years you will both be in Formula 1, use that to pick up girls if you think that your own individual charms are not enough.” You spoke, pressing send to both messages, “You are charming enough to not need stupid rules.” You assured them, placing the phones back facing the table and lifting your glare to meet their scared ones, “Trust me boys, you will do just great.” You spoke, grabbing both of their arms across the table for a soft stroke, “It is their loss if they say no to you.”

“You are right.” Pierre nodded and took the phone with the other hand from the table to wait for his girl’s answer to your reply.

“You are always right.” Charles affirmed, placing his other hand on yours, “Thank you.”

That is when the phase “Y/N is always right” started and was carried on through the years, and after they successfully went on dates with the said girls you became the one to dictate their love life as well, always, always, always asking for your advice. You enjoyed it for a bit, you liked to be in control and yet things went downhill once you noticed that them asking for your advice when it came to girls begun to bother you even so slightly and especially when Charles required them from you.

Being the mom of the group meant that you had to treat them the same as if they were your actual children, always having to love them in the same way and always having to cheer for them with the same energy. It was rough for you to do so, especially when they raced against each other. For most of your friendship you managed to keep a balance between the three of you although you stroked Leclerc’s hand a little bit tighter, laughed at his jokes a little bit more, screamed his name in the paddock a little bit louder and loved him a little bit different.

You could not remember when all of that started, maybe it was when for the first time Charles cried in your arms when he got his heart broken by his first girlfriend or maybe it was for the first time when you noticed that he looks with a type of tenderness that it was not shown to anyone else – not even when he looked at Pierre. Whenever it was, Charles Leclerc’s friendship with you was alternated by feelings that you were not able to understand fully at the age of sixteen, while yours and Pierre’s reminded the same.

You felt guilty when it came to Pierre, but somehow you knew that he was aware of you adoration towards Leclerc whereas Charles was as dull as a man can be when crushed on by a girl that follows him everywhere. Pierre noticed the way you looked at his best friend, the way your hand went around his shoulders at parties and the way you shily reciprocated Charles smiles.

It was oddly weird for him at first, but as years went by and Leclerc played the dumb card while you were crushing all over him, Pierre found himself really excited about the idea of his two best friends getting together. And yet, none of you made a move towards the goal. You never confessed to Leclerc, you always considered that there was still enough time.

As mentioned, you were young and unexperienced when it came to more than friendship with boys. You stood quiet and silent next to him waiting for the right time to confess with Pierre watching you closely falling every time. The first time when you figured out that Pierre was aware of the situation was when he popped up that question towards you.

“Don’t you think that now is an appropriate time to tell Charles that you are in love with him?” Pierre asked after Charles’ won the GP3 Series championship when you were both nineteen.

Your eyes widened at the hearing of Pierre’s words. You tried to deny, but your mumbling gave you away, “I just do—d” You stumbled, and Pierre stopped you by softly pressing one of his fingers on your lips.

“Leclerc might be foolish, but I am not.” Pierre spoke, watching his best friend lifting the trophy in the air on the podium above your heads, “Just be sure to tell him, he will not figure it out on his own.”

You gulped once Pierre’s finger was off your mouth, “You are not mad?” You asked him, looking up at the Frenchman whose eyes went down on you and your trembling lip still exhausted by the boy’s touch.

Pierre’s head tilted towards you, “Why would I be mad?” He then asked, “Do you want me to want you to pick me?” He then asked, and you could swear that the entire crowd celebrating Charles went silent once the words were out of your friend’s mouth.

Sultry.

That was Pierre’s tone whenever he leaned towards somebody’s ear to whisper sweet nothings, and you knew pretty much all his manoeuvres. You taught him half of them, and the other half were practiced on you before other girls to perfection them.

You were in love with Charles, but you could not deny the urge to jump at Pierre’s neck every single time when he would use that flirty tone of his. You witnessed Pierre going from that shy sixteen-year-old boy that had no clue how to flirt to this mastermind of a pick-up artist. You got used to the way in which Pierre would accidentally slip one of the lines used with other girls with you, and every single time you would convince yourself that he was just joking with you.

You chuckled then at Pierre’s words, watching the man’s blue eyes staring back at you and that sharp jawline inches from yours.

“You are doing it again, aren’t you?” You spoke, battling your eyelashes at Pierre as a return of the flirt, “Practicing on me.”

You locked eyes for a while, Pierre not being sure what to answer and you not being sure how to continue. It was one of your inside jokes that Charles was unaware about. You two learning how to flirt from the other. It was fun when you were kids, not knowing nor understanding exactly what physical attraction between two people meant, but as you grew older, and you passed the age of eighteen it became even more dangerous to play with fire when Charles was not looking.

But at that time, Charles was looking from above. The man searched for his best friends’ faces in the crowd and did nothing but to display a huge ass smile once he caught you two next to each other. Pierre took a step back in the crowd and nodded as he started to clap his hands even harder for his best friend once their glares met, throwing you an “If you say so, then yes.”

Pierre kept asking you the same thing years in a row: when Leclerc won the Formula 2 Championship, when he got his seat in F1, when he got transferred at Ferrari, every time a milestone was achieved. Your answers were the same, but the flirt that you thought to be innocent between you and the Frenchmen only got more intense as years went by and as you denied your feelings for the Monegasque.

In your defence, you never told Pierre that he was right.

You never confessed to him that you were into Charles, you were only mumbling and bumbling your answers, Pierre figure it out on his own and used every chance he had to tease you about it. You knew that you were not able to hold all inside your aching chest forever but what you did not know is that you were about to pour out all your feelings towards Charles in front of Pierre during that night at the Monaco party.

You went to the famous Monaco party after the disaster that was the grand prix for Charles ending up in P4. You went to one of Charles’ most frequented clubs with most of the people from the Ferrari team that were there to celebrate the podium of Carlos Sainz. You celebrated with them as well, and Charles gave his all to be joyful and supportive of his team-mate as he always is. You caught the man’s glare staring at the floor lost in the intricate thoughts running into his mind. You knew Charles, you knew that face and you also somehow knew that it was your duty to take Charles’ mind out of the events during the day. You wanted nothing more than to know him happy, that man deserved all the happiness in the world.

“Come on now,” You spoke as you made your way through the crowd until you reached his torso, grabbing your friend by his shoulders with one of your arms, “Dance with me Percival.” You spoke, facing him now as you turned on your heel to glimpse at him from above.

Charles smiled when laid eyes on you as if the worries inside the man’s mind vanished once your voice reached his ears, “Oh no, not this again.” He then spoke, placing one of his palms on your back to accommodate you in the man’s personal space and to protect you from getting touched by others passing by your back, “Can you stop calling me Percival?” The man spoke, leaning towards your ear to make his words harshly heard as he dropped an octave in his tone, “When will all this teasing stop?” He then asked, somehow snuggling you at his chest even tighter in the process.

Your excuse for being so close in a public place was the loud music bombing your ears, you could not have a normal talk standing one in front of the other at a decent distance with the music resounding that loud in the club. You enjoyed the closeness, and so did Charles. You returned the smile and reached the man’s back of the neck with one hand while the other rested on the edges of his unbuttoned white shirt, “Never, I enjoy Percival more than Charles.”

Charles’ head shook a little in a mocking disappointment as he knew exactly what you were referring about. You called him Percival only when he got drunk and somehow gained this unknown confidence on the dancefloor, “You and I both know that I suck at dancing.” Percival laughed, clumsily swirling you in a tiny pirouette just for his hands to lay on the curves of your hips when you faced him again, “Pierre texted that he will be soon here too, you will have the change to dance with someone on your calibre.”

“You and I both know that I suck at dancing too.” You spoke, inches away from the man’s face, “Pierre outdances us by far.”

Charles denied with that little smile still sprung on his face that made your insides shiver as well as your spine underneath the man’s touch on the fabric covering your skin, “That is just not true.” He then replied, slowly guiding your body on the song’s rhythm as his fingers jabbed more in the white silk of the dress you were wearing, “See? You are doing great.” Your friend spoke as he took his time to look at you from head to toes, doing a rapid scan of your body in that dress without even realizing that his lips were dry and chest heavy as it rose in a sight, “I need a drink, do you want something?” He swiftly spoke, searching for your eyes again after they seemed for an eternity locked on your body.

You nodded; you were in need for a drink as well. Leclerc’s eyes on you always left your neck dry and your heart throbbing. You danced with him as well as with the other people in the Ferrari team for the next hour or so after he bought you the promised drink that turned in more than just one glass. You and Charles made a pact when you got hired at Ferrari to not let people in your relationship and not to accuse him of favours when it came to your family position in the team. Therefore, few people knew that you and Charles were close friends and you had to keep it that way although it was hard for both of you to keep hands off the other especially after shots went down to your necks as if the liquids inside the glasses were merely water.

Once you joined the group on the dance floor, Leclerc loosen up a little. He danced more, he laughed more, he drank more and shouted the songs’ lyrics louder. You enjoyed seeing him having fun and not think about what happened on the track, but you also took the responsibility to take care of him as you always do. Thus, at every two other questionable shots, you forced him to drink actual water. Leclerc listened; Charles always listened of you.

“Good boy.” You spoke, handing him yet another bottle of water, “What about seating down for a while?” You spoke, titling your head to the booth few steps away from the dance floor as you grabbed the man hands into yours, “My feet are killing me!”

Charles’ fingers tingled as you touched them, and he decided that it was for the best to cup your fingers in between his. Leclerc wanted to be in control with at least that, with the way he held your hand in a crowded room where no one noticed that you were that close. You smiled and stroked Charles’ fingers with yours as his grip got tighter around your fingers, “I am not going anywhere, Charles.” You assured him as you looked over your shoulder, “Just the booth.”

Your voice resounded not only to Charles’ ears but also to a couple of your co-workers who were also in need for a break. Through the noise they could only understand the word “booth” and took it as an invite to follow you and Charles. You sighed once seated down next to him, watching the people from the team cramming over the table as well. You exchanged few glances with Charles, foolish of you to believe that you were going to be left alone in a crowded club in Monaco where everyone knew who he was. Soon enough not only the people from your team joined you two but also people who recognised the driver and who noticed him getting away from the dance floor to a quieter place where they could ask him questions and take pictures with him.

With all the fuss going around the table, with all the glances exchanged between the team members, topics loudly discussed around the GP, and drinks heavily being passed around, your hand was still in Charles’ underneath the table resting on one of the man’s thighs and no one seemed to notice. You would be lying not to admit that you were enjoying Charles attention on you when everyone at the table tried to get his.

“Are you okay?” Charles leaned to whisper after he noticed your cheeks turning red underneath the purple hues of the club.

You nodded, “Yes, too many shots.” You lied, touching your burning face that you caught him staring at with the back of your hand.

“Do you want to go and get some air?” Charles spoke, fully facing you now and focusing all his attention on you and only you. Oh crap, he was beautiful. With his hair all ruffled from the heat and his sleepy drunken eyes watching yours, with that white shirt unbuttoned just enough to reveal part of his chest and those soft looking trembling lips waiting for you to say yes, always waiting for you to say yes to his pleadings.

“Sure we ca—”

Your sentence was cut short as you were startled by two arms that were not Leclerc’s embracing you from the back. You quickly turned and spotted Pierre in all his drunkenness reaching for the seat next to you.

“Oh my sweet, sweet friends, I have been looking for you on the dance floor!” He confessed, tightly squeezing you in, “Hello mate.” He then spoke, reaching for Charles’ hand to shake.

Leclerc’s hand slipped from yours into Pierre’s but then failed to return into yours which was now left empty on the man’s tight still. You gulped and removed your hand from the man’s body, childishly clasping both of your hands in your lap and switching your glare from Charles to Pierre, then back to Charles only to be stolen away by Pierre taking your face in both of your hands.

“You look beautiful.” Pierre almost shouted after a few moments of simply staring at your face, “You grew up so fast, I cannot believe my eyes.” The Frenchman then spoke, and you could sense that he already had reached his limit of how-many-shots-are-too-many-shoots, “Isn’t she beautiful Charles?!” Pierre asked, still cupping your face into his giant hands, “Did he tell you that you look amazing tonight, or do I have to fight him for not complimenting you again?” Pierre spoke, but now leaning towards you for only your ears to hear the question.

“Ok, ok.” You spoke as you shook your head, touching the wrists of Pierre with both of your hands to release yourself from the trap, “Thank you Pierre, but I cannot feel my face.”

The truth was that you could feel your face and your face was burning. First, because you stood right in between the most handsome men you knew and second, because Pierre was drunk enough to already tease you about Charles and you were pretty much aware of the fact that if you kept the two together for yet another hour or so, Pierre would spill the beans on your little crush on his best friend. Pierre almost told Charles twice when they were drunk that he figured out your feelings for Leclerc, and you were still not ready to tell Charles.

“She indeed is.” Charles replied once your glance went away from Pierre and back to Charles, “Sorry for not saying anything by now.” He then apologised, signalling that Pierre was not exactly quiet when he asked you the before question, “You are stunning, you always are stunning.” Leclerc muttered without taking his eyes out of you not even for a split of a second while complimenting you.

You shily smiled, mimicking a short “thank you” towards Charles, your neck being too dry now for your mouth to utter the words in loud voice.

“Y/N is always right, Y/N is always stunning.” Pierre yelled in the space between you and Charles, basically getting on top of you in the process of reaching Charles’ ears to catch his best friend’s attention, “That is the best you can do, mate? Agreeing with me?” He then huffed, “You know that she deserves more than that, right?” Pierre added, his tone switching from that funny type of a drunk voice to a raspier demanding one, “You need to step up your game, my friend.” He then spoke, patting Charles’ chest with one of his palms.

You rolled your eyes and pushed Pierre out of you by placing both of your hands on the man’s fully bare chest now noticing that Pierre shirt was fully unbuttoned from up to down, “Thank you again Pierre.” You gently spoke, seating Pierre back next to you, “You look like you had more than enough to drink.” You spoke, fully facing the Frenchman now, “Let’s get out to get some air friend.”

Pierre stubbornly pouted, “You are changing the subject, switch places with me I need to talk with Charles.”

Your eyebrow twitched towards Pierre, “No Pierre, we are going out.” You spoke, roughly grabbing the man’s wrist and shortly looking over your shoulder to a confused Charles Leclerc watching the banter between the two of you while still processing Pierre’s last words, “I will take him out for a bit, you will be alright by yourself?” You asked, catching Charles’ look on you.

“I—” Charles shuttered, “I do not want to play games with you.” He then replied, “I never played games with you.” Charles continued still being confused by what Pierre was trying to say and why was he so aggressive towards him when it came to a mere compliment which was not even about him to begin with.

You nodded, “I know darling, I know it very well.” You assured him, “Don’t mind Pierre, you know how he is when drunk.” You then tried to clarify as you rose from your seat, “We will be back in a moment.” You said as you carefully placed your other palm on Charles shoulder for support as with the other you were dragging Pierre out from the booth, “Drink water!” You shouted as you leave towards Charles direction, “And you,” You emphasised watching a wombling Pierre following you, “What am I going to do with you?”

“What the actual fuck was that?” You spoke once getting out of the club and letting go of the man’s wrist, “Why were you giving him an attitude for?”

Pierre’s eyes widened in surprise, “I thought you would be happy that you got complimented by him.”

You rolled your eyes again at him and stopped your steps where the lights faded and not many people passed to adopt a defensive pose in front of your barely functioning friend, “I don’t need your help to get compliments from men Pierre.”

“Not just any men, but Charles.” He replied to you, taking a few steps towards you in the darkness, “Drop the act, Y/N.” Pierre demanded while stretching the back of his neck, “I know that random compliments from random ass men do not mean shit to you, but you are delighted when Charles does it.”

You crossed your arms at your chest, sustaining your weight on only one of your feet, “I did not ask for your help, Pierre.” You spoke as your arms felt around your body, you knew that you could not get mad at Pierre or return the attitude, you knew that he would use one of his charms and you will be laughing about this argument tomorrow, you knew that his intentions were nothing but good when it came to you and Charles.

“I am sorry.” You apologised first, “I am getting all worked up for nothing.”

Pierre let out a sigh and leaned on the wall behind him, “Tell him what you feel before it is too late or try to get over it, there is no easy way out if you keep it for yourself for eternity.”

You watched your now very much hurt feet as you listened to Pierre, “Easier said than done.” You spoke, taking a full breath of fresh air inside your lungs before daring to look up at him and take two steps towards the Frenchmen.

“You will get a cold.” You spoke as you faced a leaned on the wall Pierre and started to button up your friend’s shirt, “Do I even want to know why you came to the party barely naked and already drunk?” You inquired, slowly yet surely wanting to change the focus of attention from you to him.

Pierre chuckled as he clenched your hands on the shirt with both of his, “Mom, I will not get a cold and it is basically summer in Monaco!” The child spoke, almost yelling the last three words.

“Oh shut up, you will wake the entire town.” You sarcastically replied, getting your hands from underneath his and stubbornly continuing to button him up, “There you go, better right?” You spoke, smoothing the shirt with both of your palms as you were happily smiling, “You look handsome too.” You spoke, throwing a cheeky wink into Pierre’s direction, “You grew up so fast, I cannot believe my eyes!” You added with mockery into your tone.

Your friend’s eyes did not go from you the entire time you were arranging the man’s shirt fact that helped him reach to a conclusion, “You do really behave like a mom, and somehow like a child at the same time.” Pierre spoke, leaning down the wall until his bottom reached the ground concrete floor.

“Oh my god child, get up.” You spoke, “We can go over there to se-”

Then, again for the tenth time that evening, Pierre cut you off from talking as the man reached for your wrist and pulled you down with him. You rolled your eyes as you leaned your back on the wall, squatting down in your heels as you used Pierre arm as a pillar cupping it into both of yours.

“You will be a great mom.” Pierre spoke, glaring back at you who was now struggling in finding a comfortable position to seat in against the wall but being unsuccessful to do so just because Pierre was too stubborn to get up.

You sighed, “Do you think so?”

“I know so.” Pierre assured you, leaning his head on your already unstable shabby shoulder to find comfort in the closeness of your bodies, “Charles knows it too.”

“Knows what?”

“That you will be a great mom, Charles told me the last time when we met only the two of us.” He then explained, catching your reaction with only one of his eyes opened.

You gasped, “You are meeting behind my back?” You sarcastically inquired, gently pinching the man’s cheeks as a form of little punishment, “He did?” You then asked, watching Pierre carefully to catch if he was lying or not – you always figured out when he was not telling you the truth.

Pierre nodded, “Yes, we often talk about how you take care of us and yet never let us take care of you.”

“That is because you screw up more often than me.”

“You know that you can let us take care of you once in a while, right?”

You chuckled, “I know, and I will let you know when that will be the case.” You hardly managed to speak as you lost your balance because your feet were unable to sustain you in the squatted position.

Pierre huffed and then stretched his legs forward, “Such a liar!” He then spoke, covering your waist from the back with one arm, “You are not even letting me know now.” He argued, fully opening his eyes to see the excruciating pain on your face due to the hurting of your feet, “Sit down.” Pierre demanded, signalling you straight to his lap as his grip went even tighter around you ready to slam you down on him.

“On your lap? Now? Here?” You anxiously asked as you shook your head, “No way.”

“Oh come on now Y/N.” Pierre pleaded, “It is dark, no one is watching us, you are clearly in pain and I need five more minutes here before going in again.” Your friend argued, “I will not say a word to Charles.”

You were not ready to cave in but Pierre used your hesitation to get an answer from you and used both of his arms to seat you down on his lap, and when the pain from your legs went away as you were not using them anymore you were glad that Pierre offered to do it.

“I think you might be right.” You confessed to Pierre while getting more comfortable into your new seat, “I should tell Charles how I feel or get over it before it is too late.”

Pierre spoke nothing but agreed with a nod. You stood there in silence for a while seated in your friend’s lap. You thought of Charles, and weirdly enough Pierre did that too. And yet, your thoughts about Charles Leclerc in that moment were far from being the same. You were thinking about how to and if you should confess to him, while Pierre was thinking about how Charles was screwing everything up without even knowing and how you were right there seated on his lap but no move from him would make you even consider him instead of his best friend. It was frustrating for Pierre for so many years, cheering for you two while never joking in his flirts with you.

And just like that, as you both were lost in your own thoughts regarding Charles Leclerc, no one of you was even aware of the camera that has been taking pictures with you two drunkenly arguing, laughing and seating down outside the party from across the street since the very first step you took out of the club when the man holding the camera chanceful spotted the Alpha Tauri driver Pierre Gasly getting out from the club with a beautiful new women he has not been spotted yet.

You were fully unaware of what a scandal those pictures will rise the next couple of days not just in the F1 press but also in your group of the little three happy friends.

Neither of you would have anticipated Charles’ reactions to them.

#f1 imagine #f1 x y/n #f1 x you #f1 x reader #formula one x reader #f1 one shot #f1 fanfic #charles leclerc x reader #charles leclerc x you #charles leclerc x y/n #pierre gasly x reader #pierre gasly x you #pierre gasly x y/n #charles leclerc #pierre gasly #fic: friends

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