#the one about Charles parking is very special to me
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Lestappen text posts part 3! They are still insane
Part 1 Part 2
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˗ˏˋ MASTERLIST ˎˊ˗
the pit stop for all your reading needs !
mv33 ｡⋆˚ max verstappen
max and the three musketeers — mercedes is a just a tiny bit worried about your dates with their archenemesis
ln4 ⋆⭒˚ lando norris
in a galaxy far, far away — there's little time between fast cars and spaceships, but you make it work
dr3 ‧₊˚ daniel ricciardo
[ WIP ] pearls in his hair — they say alcohol brings people together, especially when you find a half-naked man by the lake of your vacation house.
ll40 ⭒𓈒ㅤׂ liam lawson
[ WIP ] rollar skate paparazzi — the guy you've been flirting with on the roller skate rink conveniently left out the part where he's super fucking famous
mv33 ｡⋆˚ max verstappen
[ WIP ] wrong kind of butterflies — max hates watching tv shows but he can't keep his thoughts away from that silly superhero show he watched on a 20 hour plane ride. and oh whatever shall he do when you actually meet on a charity party.
mv33 ｡⋆˚ max verstappen
best trophy in your showcase — cheaters deserve to get cheated out of their career, or at least that's how max justifies destroying your ex's life
cl16 ☾⋆˚ charles leclerc
oh no he's hot — your comic book signing takes a turn when a fan walks in wearing a t-shirt with a poorly photoshopped "charles lechair" or wheover that is
[ WIP ] caramel splotches — charles makes an oddly specific reference to your youtube channel just once, but the internet decides to internet
[ WIP ] apricot bowls — there's nothing charles wants more than to win a championship, but you, the baby and the cottage are a close second
[ WIP ] beef? she's a vegetarian — no one could've possibly predicted the real reason why charles made a joke that he'll join eurovision 2024...but you do, and so does your ex
ls2 ✮⁺₊ logan sargeant
behind open doors — the relationship isn't as secretive as you think it is.
texan egg hunt — the ricciardo urge to be obsessed with america takes a whole new meaning when your relationship with the only american on the grid is revealed...because of kinder eggs
glitter bomb — logan has a very special helmet reveal on instagram to celebrate your olympics gold metal and a scavenger hunt seems like the appropriate way to reveal it to you
[ WIP ] she's everything, he's just logan — not to flex, but how many f1 drivers can say they're dating a princess?
gr63 ˖♡𓍢ִ໋ george russell
get on with the show... — mercedes have a strict policy regarding office romance, but that can't stop Totally Spies because they can't read
op81 ✩°˖ oscar piastri
[ WIP ] fly me to the moon — the world hadn't seen chaos until you parked a miniplane in the pit lane your boyfriend lunchables
[ WIP ] blueberry pastries — the mclaren and williams admins love taking advantage of the fact that you and oscar only seem to look like you're not absolutely miserable on camera when you're together
meddle about — the singapore heat can't kill you, but the sight of him sweaty and disheveled just might
ln4 ⋆⭒˚ lando norris
[ WIP ] just a couple of besties — the king of spoilers himself, lando "oh is it confirmed?" norris, reveals to the whole world he has a girlfriend...and not a soul believes him.
dr3 ‧₊˚ daniel ricciardo
[ WIP ] you, me, and franz kafka — danny ric doesn't understand how a book about a guy turning into a insect can be interesting, but if it makes his girlfriend happy he'll read it- and maybe melt a few fans' hearts along the way
yt22 ★⋆.⁺ yuki tsunoda
cheap tricks on route 66 — losing a bag at a out-of-city gas station with an etched phone number seems a little too convenient doesn't it?
ms47 ❀˖˙⊹ mick schumacher
count me in — slowly but surely that fake dating plan you cooked up starts leaving its confined lines
last updated: 28/3/2024
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foreign affair // charles leclerc
summary: it wasn't supposed to happen. but they say that the south of france is the most romantic place on the planet. so falling in love with her vacation fling should have been inevitable.
pairing: charles leclerc x female reader
warnings: vacation fling, allusions to sex, way too short but it is what it is, bittersweet and filled with longing.
a one in a million chance, you know the moment that you crossed over the line. a casual glance, no one has to read between the lines
in the south of france, it was spring time, special feelings come alive, "there's romance in the air, " so they say, love could be a small café
file it under foreign affairs
the hotel sheets were more expensive than what she made in a day.
this particular resort was divided in two: private villas for the rich and honeymooning, those with money to burn, and the hotel itself, where she was staying.
but they say that france is the country of love, a figure of speech that had proven to be very, very true.
“mon amour, you’re awake.” charles said softly, a towel wrapped around his still damp body, droplets running down his toned stomach as he leaned over the bed to kiss her lips. “I was trying to let you sleep in.”
“but it’s my last day.” she frowned, nipples springing to attention underneath the thin silk sheet wrapped around her body. “I want to be out there doing things.”
three weeks of holiday almost didn’t feel like enough. the trip had been a dream, all sun and sand until she met charles leclerc at the bar. she didn’t know who he was, which perhaps helped to build his attraction to her. and he never felt the need to say any more than “I’m an athlete” when asked what he did for a living.
she fell hard and she fell fast as he offered to be her tour guide. being from monaco and having french friends, charles knew his way around all of the best restaurants, sights and beaches.
it was no surprise that after just three days, finding herself tipsy on wine, she ended up naked in his hotel room, tangled in silk sheets.
“but you will be doing things.” charles smiled, leaning over the bed and pushing his lips against hers with an almost featherlight touch, water dripping onto the sheets. “you’re doing me.”
“you’re so bad.” she giggled, fumbling to throw his towel aside, raking her fingernails down his chest. “promise me you’ll make this last day one to remember?”
“oh, mon cher, i plan on it.”
they spent the morning exchanging kisses and orgasms in charles’ bed before she finally went back to her room, legs worse for wear and a little wobbly on her feet before she changed into her swimsuit and made her way to the resorts private beach. Charles had a standing rental for a cabana, so she settled in with her book and a glass of white wine.
the only way she would want to spend her last day: relaxing by the water.
charles had promised her that he had a surprise planned for the evening to come, and he had left to prepare it shortly after she got out of his shower. despite her attempts at getting the monegasque to give her any hints, the driver was silent about his plans.
“wear that tight red dress and those strapped sandals, and meet me in the valet lot.” was all that he had said in regards to the plans.
charles leclerc, european man of mystery everybody.
bags packed and by the door, ready for her early flight, she dressed in the red dress and sandals, curling her hair and spraying herself with bath and body works. sure enough, when she walked to the valet lot, charles was already waiting next to his Ferrari.
god, she was going to miss him.
the night was young as the sun began to set, hands sticking out of the sunroof and wind blowing her hit round her face as charles drove up the coast, the south of france lit up in the half light.
“can you tell me where we’re going yet?” she giggled, eyes closed as charles lead her though a parking lot.
“hang on, hang on, amour. almost there.”
she could feel the floor moving gently underneath her feet as she let charles guide her body, listening to his calming voice when he finally told her to open her eyes.
“oh, charles.”
she was standing on the middle of a large boat, the sun setting over the water and a picnic blanket set up in the middle of the deck as the vessel rocked back and forth in the harbour, the smell of the saltwater filling her nostrils as charles lit the tall candles that were set up around the picnic.
“one last night to remember?”
she smiled, joining him on the blanket as he popped open a bottle of red wine. “one last night to remember. I’ll miss you, leclerc. thank you for making the last three weeks one for the record books.”
charles smiled sadly, still looking like a greek god even with longing etched on his features.
“to the last three weeks, and to what could have been.”
TAGS;
@magnummagnussen @libraryofloveletters @scuderiamh @scuderiasundays @silverstonesainz @diorleclerc @daydreamingleclerc @sidcrosbyspuck @lorarri @thatsdemko @oconso
#charles leclerc#charles leclerc x reader#formula 1 x reader#f1 x reader#formula one x reader#tina: the series by lovelytsunoda#mini fic
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DELICATE✰ CHARLES LECLERC.
INTERLUDE: this is why we can't have nice things.
— the one where everybody's waiting to see the fall out.
warnings: this is basically like the INTRO chapter with all media, we're going to pretend publications and broadcast timings are not mistaken or fake, okay? ok. am i myself if i don't mention taylor swift in every chapter? no. foul language.
masterlist ✢ next
By Tom Gill // June 23rd
Vic Presley confirms y/n hasn't reached out to her even after Vic called asked her to in a publication a few days ago.
"I think she has blocked my number by now," Presley said, "I am devastated by this. I didn't think it was like her to discard relationships so easily."
Presley and y/ln have been friends since 2020, when they met at the opening of the SENSE Club in downtown Los Angeles and quickly became inseparable.
"y/n really was— is my best friend. I miss her and I want her to come back to me."
Vic Presley also commented on y/n's split from Aidan Kim in her own way: "I hate that she hurt Aidan. I was not aware they had so many problems, that's definitely the kind of stuff you tell your best friend."
y/n was spotted just a week ago with alleged (and constantly denied) boyfriend, Charles Leclerc on a stroll around Central Park. Victoria Presley couldn't help but speak her mind on this.
"y/n has changed so much since she met that guy. I met him in Miami and Monaco, he's not one of the good ones. He's managing to isolate her from everyone who loves her."
Once again, Victoria urges y/n to contact her so they can rekindle their friendship. "I am not angry at her, disappointed maybe. But I will always have my arms open for her."
SEE ALSO:
→ Victoria Presley and Mia Kim collab in new project promoting Presley Beauty.
→ y/n y/ln, a disaster waiting to happen.
→ Aidan Kim is 'almost done' with debut solo album
By Paul Dean // June 28th
Aidan Kim has been in the spotlight since 2012, when he debuted as a member of boyband phenomenon Star-5 with their hit single "End Of The Day". After the band's dissolution in late 2018 due to creative differences between the members and rumored jealousy disputes that included Aidan himself, the Korean-American superstar decided to pursue a career in acting, in aims of expanding his horizons.
'Supercut' in 2019 was the start of a a succesful career followed by '1922' (2021) and 'Conversations with Friends' (2022) plus the series 'Crimes of the Academy' (2022) before Netflix decided to cancel it.
While it is true that 'Supercut' was a box office hit and sent Aidan Kim and co-star—and former partner—into a whole new level of stardom, Aidan Kim might be regretting ever making that movie.
"Supercut holds a special place in my heart," Aidan commented, politely. "It was my first real movie." Of course Aidan doesn't count the "3D Concert Experience" he starred with his other four bandmates as a real movie. "But I carry the consequences of making Supercut with me to this day."
The whole world is aware of such consequences, as y/n y/ln is keen on having the last word when it comes to the breakup from Kim. It wasn't enough to leave him humiliated by turning his marriage proposal down.
"Someone was looking out for me that night, I think," Aidan has tried his best to let go of such bitter memories by turning them into something positive. "At the end of the day, I'm glad y/n said no. I can't imagine spending the rest of my life with her. You're witnessing how unstable she is."
"It's quite shocking honestly," Aidan Kim didn't expect his ex-girlfriend to act like this. "I helped her however I could. Talked to producers, casting agents and journalists to give her a shot. And she says I never did anything for her."
Kim couldn't help but take the chance to refer to his ex's new lover: "But I've moved on. And I hope she does the same soon. If I were Charles Leclerc, I'd be worried my new girlfriend is thinking about her ex-boyfriend so often."
Lastly, Aidan teased his upcoming album, "I've worked very hard on it. I missed making music and I hope you'll like this new sound I'm trying after leaving Star-5's commercial music behind."
"The thing about music, is that it lets you tell your side of the story too. I hope you support a man doing this the same way you root for Taylor Swift, because double-standards are so 'in' right now."
SEE ALSO:
→ Mia Kim, the talented sister of Aidan Kim, set to make big screen debut.
→ Were Mia Kim and Victoria Presley mocking y/n y/ln in new Youtube Video?
→ Mia Kim: "y/n should have kept her mouth shut, there's still shit to be exposed about her."
FROM THE DREW BARRYMORE SHOW — JULY 6TH
[Y/N]: ❝(...) What matters to me right now, is that people now I am nothing of what they're calling me. I am not perfect, nobody is. But I have never cheated on a partner or used someone else as a 'toy' and most importantly, I built my own career.❞
[Y/N]: ❝It gets exhausting, you hear things about yourself you never even thought possible. It could be laughable if it wasn't so cruel❞
[Y/N]: ❝My relationship ended in February, but I believe it was over way before that. I acted in a way that was not fair to my ex-partner nor to myself, and I expressed my regrets about it. He had the right to not accept my apology, but not to make stuff up about the whole situation.❞
[Y/N]: ❝He's feeding his ego, he's a man, after all. But doing it at the expense of my work and my reputation is disgusting. I want one producer or casting agent to come forward and say they gave me a role thanks to my ex-boyfriend's input, just one.❞
[Y/N]: ❝I have surrounded myself with different people. They have been a great support system, always motivating me, and holding me back when I'm about to do something stupid. This also means I have left some people out of what's going on with me, and it's for the best.❞
[Y/N]: ❝Taylor Swift, bless her soul, has given me a lot of advice. She's the sweetest person ever and since the same guy that is trying to drag me has gone after her in a few interviews, she wants this to be over as much as I do. I think he made a mistake by messing with Taylor too.❞
[Y/N]: ❝Rumors will keep running, but I am finally at peace with knowing who I am and who I can trust. But those 'sources' should know my patience is running out.❞
By Jenny Highland // July 20th
Mia Kim and Victoria Presley are the hottest topic right now, but not for the reasons both influencers wish, as they are in trouble!
Both Los Angeles locals have received a 'Cease and Desist' letter from recovering actress y/n y/ln this week, per her team's advice. This was confirmed by both Presley and Kim on Twitter, saying they are 'flabbergasted' that y/n is accusing them of defamation.
While y/n is far from gaining her place back in the public's heart, we are not blind to what Victoria and Mia have done for the past month, riding the wave to get views and followers talking about their shared time with y/n. Who has every right to ask them to stop, as she has done in several interviews throughout the month.
For many people, this makes it more evident that it was either Presley or Kim who contacted tabloids to get their five minutes of fame and sink y/n deeper.
Actions have consequences for everyone, and if y/n decided to pick this fight at this point in her downfall/rerise/wherever it is that we are with her, it's because she knows she can win, right?
─── team principal radio: ❝thank you for reading! please let me know your thoughts! I know I'm ending your patience with this slow burn thing but I promise you we're getting there! Charles is back next chapter and you'll see haha. again, your interactions mean the world to me and i'm sorry if sometimes i don't reply to your comments, i'm just awkward but i love you all♡❞
✰ paddock club members: @sassyheroneckgiant @flowerchild-96 @fangirlika @shegotboreddsoo @roseamongthorns13 @cissyp @chimchimjiminie16 @saturnsrinqs @roni-midnights @gayyvodka6 @studioreader @its-ash-not-grey @lu-morningstar @ferraribabe @reidsworld @feelslikestrawberries @celestialams @kosmosgalore @heeseung-baby @missenclod @buendiabebeta @mycenterfold @aces-tattooartist @burningrred @you-bleed-just-toknowyouarealive@rainybabe25 @ru-kru @lazybot @teenagedreams-cl @cool-ultra-nerd @kuskumu @formulakay3 @bisexual-desi @somanyfandomsbruh @icarus-nex @haziefairy @xjval @xoxoloverb @sainzleclercs @headinthecloudssblog @incoherenciass @bookophiliac @torrie421 @nooshytushie @azxulaa @steephanie07 @anonymous8462 @tbisloneely @pukklv @bn7921 @be-your-coffee-pot @fdl305 @lovely-blackinnon @landonorizzz @ruleroftheuniverse @ivegotparticulartaste
want to join the paddock club? click here!
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#charles leclerc x reader#charles leclerc x female reader#charles leclerc x you#charles leclerc imagine#charles leclerc fic#charles leclerc fanfic#f1 imagine#f1 fanfic#f1 imagines#f1 x reader#formula 1 imagines#formula 1 fanfic#formula 1 x reader#cl16 fanfic#cl16 x reader#cl16 imagine
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welcome to the mini series of the random, mindless thoughts had by a poet disguised in an orange jumpsuit watching cars speed by all weekend. enjoy!
--- note: 5am starts, 7pm finishes. all four days. gotta love formula 1!
thursday: media day!
i want the ferrari jacket
there are school kids here?
i don’t want the ferrari jacket
$7 for a small can of red bull is THEFT
especially since they broke the cost cap
me walking through the “accredited personnel” gate and tapping my special lanyard is a CORE memory
i think my uber driver dropped me off on the opposite side of the track
*stressing about being unable to admire the sights of albert park bc i’m stress-running from the opposite end of the track to my station*
pls don’t be a dick and say i’m late - i know
how is a 5am wake up not early enough HOW?
“last year i was stationed at the corner where charles spun out.”
sole thought = 💀💀💀💀
i. fucking. love. cars.
the whole SENSORY experience of a race ffffffffffffuuuuuck
“be careful taking pictures because that security camera is on us and is straight to race control and the FIA.” is such a cool sentence to hear
a porsche gtr should not be covered with branding idc
i’m definitely going to abuse caffeine this weekend
friday: FP1 / FP2
the sun is rising over the lake as i walk on the albert park track and i’m happy to be alive
especially as i found a toilet that isn’t a port-a-loo
ah, a cafe that does good decent coffee thank GOD
am i going to pay $10 for a croissant?
i'm going to pay $10 for a croissant.
i lived in paris but this one fresh lune choc croissant has topped it all
no like there will never be another croissant experience to beat me eating a fresh pain au chocolat on a f1 circuit as the sun rises over the water with the melbourne skyline in the background
aramco engineers are walking behind me as i shit talk about f1, nice
“it is an increasingly unique experience peeing in a port-a-loo beside a formula one track as cars race by.”
120’000 is a LOT of people
how has the float not broken yet?
metro boomin has released an album as i stand before live formula one. life has PEAKED
fernando alonso is the first F1 driver i ever saw live
there is a shift in formula one as the heritage fans of motor racing are on the out as the next generation of fans absorbed in driver hype and social media takes over and we see this in how F1 has created the new US tracks and made them all into spectacles and fans are here because of it being “cool” instead of caring about cars
… maybe i should buy the redbull jacket instead?
bonus: sole thought during the pitlane walk for the marshals
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
saturday: FP3 / qualifying
the relief of thinking you’re late and then seeing someone you know HA
commentators are now contractually obligated to bring up saudi arabia every time they talk about ollie bearman
jesus they’re as bad as the f1 girlies
i have to watch the grand prix replay after all of this i have no idea what’s actually going on
CHARLES GOES FASTER THAN MAX HA
kimi spinning out has me actively wanting to cry
a safety car FROM THE PIT EXIT
welcome to F2 everyone 👏👏👏
not me lying to the cute irish guy hitting on me about @saintescuderia
a big fat ha at the eshays holding their puffer jackets - even they can’t stand the heat
don’t flex on me that you’re here at F1 when you don’t even know what’s going on yourself bruhhhh
to the red bull fan telling me i’m “dramatic” for rolling under the fence (it’s how marshals have to do it) pls get help
$7 for a calispo is a JOKE
recording F1 quali isn’t even worth it bc they're TOO FAST
JOKES I GOT A PHOTO WITH ALBONO
i’m very lucky for my team of marshals :))))))))))
i’m only going to eat half my muffin
*finishes the whole thing*
sunday: race!
KIMI ANTONELLI!
do i ask for a photo?
*every photo of charles leclerc being abused flashes through my mind*
nah leave him be
five minutes later: i regret not asking him
the group of aussies dressed as lance stroll drunk at 9am have my heart and my respect
i need a coffee
seeing kimi walk right by me has now made so much invested for f2
i really need a coffee
yep they screwed kimi with all those safety cars
i really, really need a coffee
we get to go ON TRACK? for the DRIVERS PARADE
*starts practicing “get well soon” in spanish*
my heart is BEATING
lol jokes carlos didn’t even look at us
*checks footage to see that i accidentally just recorded guanyu zhou next to carlos the whole time :))))*
lol are they putting lewis and charles together all the time?
every marshal: “that was the shittest parade ever.”
i need a drink
pls don’t talk to me for the next two hours
don't meet your heroes kids
but also why the fuck did they do the float in one big car? and do INTERVIEWS? this is legit the one time the drivers can be there JUST for the FANS
F1 can PISS OFF
race start = okay it's happening
waitwaitwaitwaitWAITDIDIJUSTSEECARLOSOVERTAKEMAX?!
nevermind i love him
"race control has asked that you calm down, marshals are supposed to be neutral."
lol at the entirety of albert cheering that max is slowly coming to a DNF
mclaren swapping oscar for lando is DISGUSTING fuck zak brown
somehow, i've forgotten that charles is just there
SEND IT CARLOS VAmos
(this is all because i told you que te mejores pronto!)
daniel ricciardo....man..... aus gp can't market you like this.......
damn yuki got HANDS
ferrari and mclaren having the top 4 places is just *chefs kiss*
lewis just had to stall just pass my sector like i hope ur okay but couldn't u not be ok in front of me?
red bull deserves this after all the FLACK i've copped from red bulls fans ("dramatic" MY ASS)
wait george russell ARE YOU SERIOUS?!
singapore all over again. i can already see the memes.
somehow marshalling a gp has you closer and more removed from the whole thing i have no idea what's going on
(literally the only time i used my F1TV live timing)
finishing after the safety car means i can't stick my head out and clap for carlos FUCK OFF
wait, he came up right UP TO MY SIDE OF THE TRACK TO WAVE
... do you think he noticed me?
#saintescuderia#ferrari#F1#formula 1#charles leclerc#lewis hamilton#max verstappen#lando norris#f1 fanfic#f1 x reader#f1 imagine#mclaren racing#mclaren f1#mclaren formula 1#oscar piastri#albert park#aus gp 2024#carlos sainz#carlos sainz jr#f1 2024#scuderia ferrari#dr3#daniel ricciardo#danny ric#red bull racing#ollie bearman#mercedes amg petronas#team lh44#alex albon#alexander albon
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Lookism Characters when it's your birthday!!!
A/N: It's my birthday todayyyy!!! So if you share the same birthdate with me or you happen to scroll this down on your own special day and if you're not on the mood, this is for you!
Daniel Park/Zack Lee/Eli Jang/Sally Park/Mira Kim/Crystal Choi/Mary Kim/Zoe Park/Jace Park/Jay Hong/Heather/Jake Kim/Yoojin/Jihan Kwak/Gapryong Kim/Jinyeong Park/Sinu Han/Lua Im/Brad Lee/Jerry Kwon/Yui Kim/Joy Hong/Duke Pyeon/Jason Yoon
The really super sweethearts tbh
They're the ones who will remembers everyone's birthday (especially when you're superrr close with them).
So they will call the others to have a group meeting or create a group chat with over 40 members on it to surprise you on your special day! "GUYS ATTENTION!!! IT'S Y/N'S BIRTHDAY IN 4 DAYS WE GOTTA SURPRISE THEM!!!"
They will assign who will buy the décor and food (they will all share the budget!).
Will think of many plans and ideas to surprise you (It can turn out a little wacky though but at least they have put effort on it!)
Vasco/Doo Lee/Jiho Park/Olly Wang/Goo Kim/Yuseong/Warren Chae/Jibeom Kwak/Tom Lee/Kuroda Ryuhei/Sinu Han/Gongseob Ji/Alexander Wang (add in Zack Lee ; a little bit if you're really close)
They're the super noisy ones lmao
I can imagine the others getting so annoyed from them since they can't keep quiet when they're still preparing for the surprise (don't blame them they're super excited!).
So when you came inside the dark room and you opened the lights, they will scream and screech at the top of their lungs "HAPPY BIRTHDAY Y/NNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!" xD.
They're also the super hyped ones while singing Happy Birthday even though they're out of tune LMAO (the others looks so done while you just stand there in the center with the cake lit with the candles be like 🧍♀️).
Even while eating, they're still super talkative while there's lot of food smudges on their face (how the hell can they still speak? Because their vocal chords are SUPERIOR).
Jay Hong/Joy Hong/Jiho Park/Crystal Choi/Goo Kim/Gun Park/DG/Yoojin/Tom Lee/Mitsuki Soma/Charles Choi
The super rich ones. They have the budget to buy the décor for themselves but the others insisted to pay for it and help too.
Will also buy you a very expensive gift like designer clothes, jewelry, shoes or anything that you really like but you can't afford! The others will be just like "Woah! They bought the limited edition jewelry of f/b for Y/N!"
They just really love you so much so they bought the most expensive gift for you that they can find so you'll feel very special! (Though just don't use them as a sugar mommy/daddy it can turn them off).
They will smile, chuckle and pat you on the head if you're super happy with their present "WuahHhhHHh THANK YOU SO MUCHHHHH YOU DON"T HAVE TO SPEND TOO MUCH MONEY ON ME NEXT TIME!!!" "As long you're happy I am too".
They just wants to see you smiling all the time even if it's not your b-day they hate you seeing sad (like everyone hates seeing you sad :)))) .
Daniel Park/Zack Lee/Eli Jang/Warren Chae/Sally Park/Mira Kim/Vasco/Jace Park/Mary Kim/Zoe Park/Heather/Jake Kim/Jihan and Jibeom Kwak/Hudson Ahn/Johan Seong/Yuseong/Jerry Kwon/ Line Man/ Lua Im/ Sinu Han/Brad Lee/Duke Pyeon/Jason Yoon/Jichang Kwak/Young Jinyoung Park
Will feel insecure about their gift (or if they don't have something to give for you).
Like don't blame them they're just in high school they're not like super rich (for young Jinyoung Park too).
They will be the ones who will either buy you cheap but cute items that you like and it's wrapped in beautiful gift wraps, make it hand-made or they will write a super long letter with your favorite decorations and stickers on the envelope (they're so precious).
They will be hesitant first to give you their present but after encouraging themselves, they will be super shy and lovey dovey while giving it to you "Ha-Happy Birthday Y/N... Hope you like it".
But after reading their letter you'll probably burst into tears lol (they're so good at expressing their feelings through writing it down on a paper that it makes you feel appreciated and loved so much since you're so nice to them).
They will also comfort you for crying and they will feel bad for making you cry because of the letter lmao "Y/N ARE YOU OKAY WHY ARE YOU CRYING?"
Over all sweethearts tbh "WUAHHHH THANK YOU FOR THE GIFT YOU DON'T HAVE TO SPEND ON ME TOO MUCH MONEY ON ME DUMMY THE SURPRISE IS ENOUGH!!!" "So-sorry for making you cry though..."
Johan Seong/Samuel Seo/Gun Park/Goo Kim/DG/Taesoo Ma/Vin Jin/Magami Kenta/Jiho Park (villain arc)/Cheon Taejin/Mandeok/Yui Kim/Mitsuki Soma/Xiaoleoung
"Why the hell am I here?" vibe.
They're just here for the food (they might not even know or care for the celebrant if you're not close with them lmao).
But they're still going to buy a gift for you if you know each other.
Acts like they hate it, but they secretly love birthday parties (Goo's an obvious party monkey so he really loves making chaos on birthdays like throwing and smudging the cake on everybody's faces lol).
Will secretly turn on birthday song remixes and sus shit on the bluetooth speaker lmao.
ADD IN!: Duke Pyeon/Daniel Park/Jay Hong/Jerry Kwon/Warren Chae/Vasco/Jiho Park/Brad Lee/Lua Im/Goo Kim/Line Man
They're the camera man with the shaky hands.
The pictures they take will be a little bit blurry and shaky while Goo is just doing it on purpose to piss you off (the others are really doing their best don't get angry).
They just wants to enjoy and spend some time with you without the others bossing them around (please save them).
Jiho Park/Vasco/Joy Hong/Warren Chae/Zoe Park/Goo Kim/Kuroda Ryuhei
They're the ones that will unintentionally spoil the surprise.
They will get so excited that they will spill the tea from you without realizing that they're talking to the celebrant and the others will cover their mouth shutting them up. "WE'RE HAVING A SURPRISE PARTY FOR Y/-" "OKAY WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT???!!! Sorry Y/N..."
They will apologize to the others while there are tears building in their eyes "Sorry guys! I just got so excited I won't do it again!" (while Goo is just doing it on purpose to tick the others off he's such an asshole lmao).
#lookism x reader#lookism x y/n#lookism x you#daniel park x reader#jay hong x reader#vasco x reader#lookism fic#zack lee x reader#dg x reader#gun park x reader#goo kim x reader#jake kim x reader#samuel seo x reader#vin jin x reader#lookism x gender neutral reader#happy birthday
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Excerpts from the Charles Leclerc biography "le prodige" by Rémi Boudoul:
Charles never cried during a movie.
He prefers a bigger seat because he likes to move a bit while racing because that's how he "feels" the track.
Charles is scared of spiders and snakes. 🕷🐍
Charles said he would love to try MotoGP but he doesn't know if Ferrari would allow him. But if he had to choose, he would like to try a Rallye car one day.
Joris (Charles's best friend):
"Money, glory, love, nothing has changed Charles. He is still the same as before. I met Charles in 6th grade, we were almost enemies, because we both fell in love with same girl until we figured out that neither of us will end up with her."
"On Sundays we usually receive a text shortly after the race. Charles talks with us about the strategy, what happened and so on. As soon as he is in Monaco he calls us and we have a dinner. Quite often pasta or pizza. Charles is always available for his true friends."
Charles:
"One day when I was karting, Michael Schumacher was doing some F1 test. It was a really special moment. I remember entering the paddock and we had the chance to meet him, it was very exciting. Fortunately there was not a lot of people, so he took some time to talk to us."
"He [Schumacher] signed our suits, talked with us before going back to his garage. It was really sweet and I was very impressed. I don’t even remember what we were talking about because all I could focus on was his red suit. I never thought I would one day drive for the red team."
"My first memory of Maranello was with Jules. He had a photoshoot and he tried to make me come inside with him but it didn’t work, so I had to wait outside. But it was then when I realized that the whole town was dedicated to Ferrari."
"I sat outside, in the parking lot for two hours, trying to imagine what the inside of the building looked like. In my head I was picturing something like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with the Oompa Loompas running around."
"On my father's funeral day, I had the authorization to drive the hearse… We drove a bit in the town before going to the cemetery. It was tough you know. No matter what you do, nothing prepares you when you lose your father. I’ve become more mature because losing him made me have more responsibilities out of the blue, making me grow as a man. Mentally I’m stronger than ever after losing my father so early in my life. This changes you forever."
Did I need psychological help back then? No, I stayed alone in a corner. I rather wanted to think by myself and prepare the race. I never thought of not driving in Baku. My dad was my number one fan. He wanted me to be good at each race, so no there was never a doubt because I was sure he would have wanted me to be there and to win for him.
"Do I love winning or do I hate losing? Well both but I guess I hate losing more because when something goes wrong, I’m really upset."
Pascale (Charles's mother):
"Charles on track and at home are two different people. With his father, he was always talking about cars. Racing was Herve’s life. He has that in his blood. Charles was lucky, he received a lot from his father."
Translation by Vetteleclerc.
#charles leclerc#f1#*#biography#interview#him preferring the bigger seat so he slides around and gets a 'feel' while racing is absolutely fascinating#but never cried during a movie?? psychopath behaviour 🤣#(and he's not wrong... although calling the strategists oompa loompas would be an insult to oompa loompas)
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Charles, this one is for you.
Just wanted to let you know that I love your resting bitch face and your bad attitude like when a girly pop starts acting grumpy.
You and I, my friend, we can be besties.
So, to my question:
Will you help me make Maria love me?
Kroz I gotta admire your dedication for the woman but let's see how Charles will respond to your ask.
Author: Charles my brooding friend I do say I say I love the look(I point to his(Red Crimson Suit) Not to mention those gold cuffs? Good taste my man.
Charles: (Crosses his legs) Thank you Author but let's cut to the chase, I know you want something from and not here to appraise my attire!
Author: Oh Charles very intuitive as ever(Hands him the paper) Still you're very right!
Charles: (Mouth moving, then moving closer the paper to his eyes) THE HELL?
Author: (Laughing) Profanities, my good man! Is unbecoming a gentle vampyr such as yourself!
Charles: (Composes himself) Apologies!
So this Kroz a good friend of yours, yes?
Author: My friend, my partner confidante!( Drones on)
Charles: I see(Got contemplative look) Well kroz I feel insulted and honored but mostly insulted when you praised my face.
Second, I thank you for offering your friendship!(Bows his head cordially) Although I think that can't come to past.
Now thirdly, the reason why I must decline! OF ALL THE PEOPLE YOU CHOSE TO COURT AND TO FUCK YU CHOSE MARIA????
Author: Someone's getting jealous!(Mocking him)
Charles: (Runs a hand through his face) I'm not jealous!
Author: Then why the outburst
Charles: Its justified! Becuz I can't find any good reasons for someone to love that abomonation.
Author: (Wags my finger in the air) But Charles don't you know that someone adores you?
Charles: (Did a double-take) BULLSHIT!(eyeing me skeptical)
Author: There is!(I pressed) There's a lot of them actually but one remains to be your top follower!
Charles: PROOF NOW!(Getting curious)
Author: Of course, still I found it boring to just give you the person's identity! How about a bet? I even allow you to have two terms for me when I lo-
Charless: DEALLL(Thrusting his hand for me to shake)
Author: So eager(I shake his hand) Name your terms.
Charles: (Gripped my hand tightly) 1st All of us calls you Author we don't know your real name. So reveal it to us and use it from now on as your pen-name!
Second, I want you to reveal your embarrassing romantic moments in your life. (Smiling cruelly at me)
Author: I accept your terms! Although almost all my followers know my real name(I wink at him)
Charles: YOU TOLD THEM YOUR NAME(Letting go of my hand and crossing his arms) YOU TOLD THEM AND NOT US YOUR OC's I FEEL BETRYED)
Author: What a drama queen(I roll my hands) For my term, when your special admirer sent me an ask, you will do that ask without hesitation, questions, whining, nor your free will is out of the window. You will do it whether you like it or not!
Charles: Sure! Because I know that no one can ever fallen for me(Looking smug and hurt flashing in his eyes)
Author: Your hubris will be your downfall my friend.
So @loveandleases you heard the man! Sent what ask you desires for him to do. Have him running around naked in the park, invite him to dinner, make him jump off a bridge! Go nuts! No restrains and bars, go creative if you want.
Charles: Wait your not joking?(He ask getting worried)
Author: Nope!(Smirking at him)
Charles: OH NO!
Author: No takebacks Charles and this mark will serve as our accord(Making a tattoo apperead on his arm and my own)
Charles: I sold my soul to a demon( He sunk to his knees)
Author: Fool! Your soul already mine to begin with!(Cackling with mad delight)
Charles: Please @loveandleases(Crawling to the camera) Have compassion, I implore the goodness in your heart! HAVE MER-
END TRANSMISSION
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Lover - Taylor Swift
Masterlist - Previously - Next Chapter
Can I go where you go?
Can we always be this close forever and ever?
Last race before the summer break was Spa, a race that held a special place in Charles’ heart. He had there, his first F1 victory ever but it had been tainted by the loss of Anthoine, the day prior. It was always pretty emotional for him to come back here. But today, it was even more special. He was there as the leader of the championship and it added an unexpected pressure. As usual, Lyanna was there to support him and he was grateful for that.
Charles dominated his rivals on the track and finished first once again, securing not only the win but also managing a Grand Chelem. As the Monegasque anthem was playing on the podium, Charles looked at the sky while closing his eyes and Lyanna knew that he was thinking a lot about his dad. But as soon as it stopped his eyes found Lyanna and he pointed first to his trophy and then to her mouthing an “I love you” that was caught on camera. But both of them did not care.
Summer break was finally there and Charles was excited to finally be able to relax. His idea of fun was spending every moment possible with Lyanna, his family and friends and if possible, on his boat away from everything. But it was also an important time for him and Lyanna since it was marking the first year of them knowing each other and he wanted to make it special. That’s why one morning as she was sleeping soundly in his bed, the early rays of sunshine kissing her naked skin, he went to the bakery to buy chocolate muffins. Careful to not wake her when he came back in the bedroom, he got to his side of the bed and proceeded to cuddle her and kiss every inch of skin his lips could come across. She whined before stirring up, her lips finding Charles’.
“Good morning, beautiful.” He whispered against her lips as she slowly curled up in his arms.
“Good morning.”
“Did you sleep well?”
“Very, very well. I have to say that you tired me out last night.” She added a smile in her voice.
“You loved it.”
“I really, really do.”
“And since I don’t have anything else to do, I promise you that I’m going to spend the next three weeks worshiping you as you deserve.”
“Words, words, Leclerc. I need less than those and more action.”
“And I promise you, you will but first, breakfast.”
“Thank you, I’m so hungry. Let me get some clothes first and I join you.”
She took a quick shower before walking to the kitchen, her wet hair in a messy bun and saw the table dressed impeccably.
“Are we celebrating something?”
“Not necessarily. It’s just… it’s been a year since I’ve met you and I wanted to do something nice to celebrate.
“That’s very sweet.”
“I bought chocolate muffins.”
She looked at him knowingly.
“You remember.”
“Of course I do. How could I forget the way you looked when I opened my door and saw you holding them and how you were ready to run away. Back then you were just the pretty girl I had met in the elevator. Those muffins hold a special place in my heart. I could never forget them.”
Lyanna smiled gently at him and went to him. Charles welcomed her with open arms as she sat in his laps and buried her head in his neck.
“You’re the best boyfriend ever.”
“Wait until you see what I have planned!” he laughed, kissing the top of her head.
Curious and excited, Lyanna let Charles guide her with absolute trust. She didn't question him when he gave her a sports outfit to put on and did the same. And neither when they drove off in the car and parked by a footpath away from the town. But when Charles took the backpack from the trunk and held her hand, Lyanna understood.
“Don’t tell me we are going to hike to La Tête de Chien.” She complained, making him laugh at the déjà vu feeling he got.
“Yes, this is exactly what we are going to do. But this time, I’m not letting go of your hand because I know that you are resourceful enough to run away.”
And he didn’t let go. And just like the first time, she complained all the way. Half-way to the top, Charles couldn’t handle her protests anymore and decided to carry her on his back. It was hot and the sun was bright in the sky but he didn’t care, she finally was quiet and seemed content with her position.
“How is it up there?” he asked as he could feel her hair tickling his neck.
“Perfect. It’s comfy and the view is amazing.”
“Beware that I’m not dropping you.” He teased her, repositioning his hands below her knees.
“You wouldn’t dare.”
“Do you want to test out that theory?”
As he was talking, he abruptly lowered his arms making Lyanna squealed and gripping his neck a little too hard.
“Don’t worry, love, I’m never going to let you fall. But if you could stop strangling me, that would be nice. I need to breath to be able to carry us to the top.”
They finally made it in one piece and just like the first time, Lyanna was blown away by the view. They settled on the ground as Charles was handing her a bottle of water and an apple.
“Even a year later, it’s still the most beautiful view of Monaco.” She admitted while taking pictures.
“I agree.” Said Charles not really looking at the landscapes, something Lyanna caught.
“You’re cliché.”
“You’re my most beautiful view, Lya. In the morning when I wake up, when I’m on the podium, when we’re cooking dinner, when we’re watching the tv and you fall asleep on my shoulder or late at night when I’m about to go to bed. I love watching you.”
“Stop, you’re making me blush.”
“I love to do that.”
“You’re exceptionally romantic today.”
“I know, I just have a hard time realizing it’s already been a year and, in a few weeks, it will be officially our first anniversary. Time went by. And so fast.”
“I understand exactly what you mean. If someone would have told me how much I was about to change a year ago, I would have laughed at them. Life works in the strangest and most unexpected ways.”
They stayed up there for a while before finally deciding to move. As nice as the view was, tourists were beginning to arrive and their peace and quiet was disturbed. They spend the rest of the day walking around the Monegasque streets, until the ended up in the late afternoon at Le Jardin Exotique.
“Last time we were both there it was late at night.” Whispered Lyanna.
“And you were acting weirdly cute. I remember thinking that you were someone I needed to get to know better. I wanted to be your friend so badly back then. Knowing what I know now, I think I was already attracted to you.”
“Oh, you had a crush on me, Leclerc?” she teased him, poking his side.
“I think so, yes. Even if I didn’t want to admit it to myself.”
“You know? I think I was already crushing on you as well at the time but I was a scared and unconfident girl. I would have preferred to die rather than admitting it.”
“Everyone could see that we were destined to be together but us. We were both too stubborn to see it when it was right in front of us the whole time.”
He looked at her straight in the eyes and lowered his head to capture he lips with his.
“There is one last place I want to take you before we go out on my boat to eat.”
The last place he took her was the graveyard and Lyanna knew exactly what he had in mind. They walked on the alleys, in silence, until they reached a grave, a little on the side of the others, under a tree. Charles stepped forward and knelt down, sweeping up the leaves with one hand.
“Hey dad, it’s me. It’s been a while, I know. I could’ve come sooner but… it’s still hard you know? Even after all this time. I didn’t come alone, though. I have a very special someone that I would like you to meet.”
He grabbed Lyanna’s hand and pulled her to him before squeezing it slightly. The young woman walked up to the grave, beside Charles.
“Hi, hello… oh my God this is so awkward. I’m Lyanna, your son’s girlfriend. Charles, it feels so weird… I… I just wanted to say that you raised an amazing man. Sure, he can be stubborn sometimes and a real pain in the ass but he is also loyal, caring, strong, honest, funny, and patient. He is my safe place and my home. I’ve never thought that i would be able to love again, or to know what love feels like but your son… he shows me what it’s like. Everyday. I’ve not been the perfect girlfriend or even friend to him in the past but he never failed me. And God knows I failed him more than once and he could have given up on me. But he never did. Not once. Instead he built me up when I was falling down to my knees on the ground. And I’ll be forever grateful to him for that. So I guess, what I’m trying to say is thank you. For raising him like you did, for bringing him to me. I would have loved to meet you and I hope that from wherever you are, you can see how amazing he is.”
Charles let involuntarily a tear escaped. He kissed her temple, whispering with a voice laced with emotion.
“He would have loved you; he would have said that you were perfect for me and that I should marry you someday. And I would have looked at him with a smile and said yes.”
This time, it was Lyanna’s turn to get emotional. The talks about their future were limited. Not because either of them were scared or uncomfortable to talk about it, but just because they wanted to enjoy the moment. But when Charles mentioned by simple sentences their future together, it never failed to make her tear up. It was never big talks, just little things that made her confident about the future. They would stay together. It was happening. That was it. No need to say more or to have grand gestures. They were two souls, designed by fate, that had managed to find their ways together. And it was all.
As promised, Charles brought her on the boat for a picnic. They were on their own, on the water, far from the land but not far enough for it to disappear completely from their sights. As they were drinking a glass of rosé, Charles looked at her weirdly and gulped.
“I want to ask you something. You can say no, I won’t take it the wrong way, I promise you.”
“Are you okay? I’ve never seen your face look this red.”
“It’s nothing, it’s just… well… Move in with me. For real, I mean. You have already the keys of the flat, you spend more time in it than in Nice, and this flat is on paper yours as well. We basically already live together but I just want to make it official, with your name alongside mine on the mailbox and all your stuff in my drawers. I want to take the next step in our relationship. Do you want that too?”
Lyanna didn’t know what to say anymore, he left her speechless. She took his hand in hers and tugged at it slightly trying to make him look at her.
“Charles…hey. I know I said that I needed my own independence and all, but it has been on my mind for while if I’m being honest.”
“So it’s a yes?”
“I need to take care of the paperwork first but it’s a yes.” She assured him.
He stood up and took her in his arms, twirling her around, making her laugh before putting her back down and kissing her passionately.
“So, we are really doing this? We really are going to live together for real?” he asked her, a part of him not believing it totally.
“We are. I’m going to bring all my stuff to your flat and I have so much that you won’t recognize the place you are currently living in.”
“Make it yours, Lya. I’m so happy.” He giggled.
This time, Charles did not help her moving out her things considering how things went wrong the last time. Instead, Lya asked a professional moving company to help her. She was not taking everything. Most of her furniture had been sold or donated to charities as she didn’t need them. Meanwhile, Charles had spent the entire day reorganizing his closet, his bathroom, and the kitchen cabinets to make some space for Lya. He was excited. It felt official. It felt right. It felt like a new chapter in their life, one he was ready to take on.
A few days after the big move, as they were settling on the couch, Lyanna’s head on Charles’ lap as he was playing with her hair while watching the TV, images of their future together started to flow in his mind.
“I want a big house on the hills of Monaco.” He said out of nowhere, making Lyanna drop the book she was reading and look at him.
“We just finally moved in together and you already want to move out?”
“I’m not saying right now. The flat is perfect for both of us, we don’t need more space. I was talking about a few years from now.”
She straightened up and sat down, her arm behind the back of the sofa and her body turned towards Charles.
“I would love a big garden to go with the house. But somewhere peaceful, you know. So we are not bothered.”
“And the house would be an open floor, with a big living room to welcome our friends and family and so you can all gather to watch my races if you can’t come. I would put the piano at the center so we can play whenever we feel like it and it would resonate everywhere in the house. And a big kitchen so we can cook together without bumping into each other every two minutes because we lack space. And a big dining room so for Christmas we can have a big table to fit both of our families.”
“I’d say at least four bedrooms would be ideal. One for your simulator, an office for me, our room and a guest room.”
“I want our room to face the garden, or maybe we could have our own private balcony? What do you think.”
“I would love that. And I want a pool! Imagine all the parties we could organize if we had a big garden!”
“And we could have so much space for the kids, as well.”
“That would be important indeed. So they can run around and play outside. We would’ve to protect the pool then, we wouldn’t want them to get hurt.”
“Security first. What do you think about a dog? A Golden Retriever or a Colley? They love kids.”
“Going for the whole cliché of the family with the white picket fence, I see.”
“I’m a family guy, Lya.”
“I know… How many kids do you want?” she asked a little shy.
“At least two, maybe three. But only if you want, I’m fine with two. I would love to have two girls. You three would be my princesses. I would spoil them rotten. But I don’t care.”
“And what if we have two boys, then?”
“I would cherish them and teach them how to become great men. And I would love them to go karting. Even if we have girls, actually. I would love to have at least a kid with who I can share my love for racing.”
“What if they tell you they want to be in F1?”
“I’ll encourage them, I’ll help them but they will have to work hard. It’s not going to be offered to them, I want them to get there because they proved that they had what it takes, not because they would be my kid. And what if one of them would tell you that they want to become an actor?”
“Same as you. But I’ll look over every single contract they could get because I know what type of shit is written in some of them. But before, I would encourage them to have a degree, and to study. I didn’t and I regret it.”
“It’s not too late for you if you to go back to your studies, you know. I would support you.”
“Maybe one day when I’ll stop acting. For now, it’s not in my book.”
They looked at each other, smiling and happy to see that they wanted the same things in life.
“I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you, Lya.” He confessed.
The few weeks of summer break went by quickly and then it was time for Charles to go back on the tracks. Zandvoort did not go as well as Charles would have hoped, only ended up P6 after a mistake from his end. He wouldn’t have been this disappointed and angry if Max had not won his national Grand Prix, allowing him to get closer to Charles in the drivers’ championship. But then, it was Monza and he was pretty excited. There was always something special about it since it was Ferrari home Grand Prix and where Lya and him became an official couple a year ago.
It’s Lyanna who woke up Charles, the Friday before FP1 by leaving little kisses on his chest before disappearing under the duvet making him groan.
“Happy one year anniversary, baby.” She said as she went up to kiss his lips.
“Happy one year, love.” He wished her, flipping her over and starting to kiss her collarbone. “It’s early, I don’t have to leave before a while.”
“I know, I just thought that it would give us more time to celebrate before you go.”
“I promise I won’t be wasting those precious minutes.”
“I hoped you would say that.”
The Friday evening, Charles took her out in a fancy restaurant to celebrate. As they were waiting for the dessert, he took out of the bag he had carried out with him ever since they stepped out of the hotel, a rectangular form carefully wrapped and gave it to Lya. It was a photo album with pictures of them taken at different moments throughout the year they had spent together. From when they were still just friends to the last hike to La Tête de Chien they had done during the break. Beside every pictures were found little love words to remind her how loved she was.
“So you have a part of me even when I’m not there.” He had explained to her.
“I have that for you, as well.” She told him while giving him a little box.
Charles opened it and recognized immediately the horsey bracelet he wore all the time unless during races as it was often Lyanna that kept it. She had made some alliterations to it, adding the Monegasque flag and a movie clap on it beside each sides of the horse.
“I added them when you were not looking. And I thought that this bracelet could be like a tradition of ours? Like, whenever something big or important happens in our lives we can add a signification on the bracelet. I don’t know, maybe it’s stupid.”
“It’s perfect. I already loved it before but I love it even more now.”
The rest of the weekend could not have gone any better as Charles, just like the year before, won in Monza and this time when he walked on the podium, his eyes looked straight at Lyanna. He pointed at her and then at the trophy and then to her, like he wanted to tell her that this win was for her. She was so proud and happy for him. Fred who was right beside her, couldn’t help but throw one arm around her from happiness.
“He will be world championship Lyanna; I can assure you. He is going to do it.”
“I hope. I don’t want to jinx it.”
As they were coming back towards the hospitality to wait for Charles, Fred pulled her aside.
“Lyanna, I wanted to ask you something a little bit personal.”
“Yeah sure, go ahead.”
“I don’t know if she told you, but I started seeing your mom since your birthday.”
Lyanna almost spat out the water she was drinking.
“Seeing, as in dating?”
“She is not comfortable with that, considering that you date Charles and I’m well… basically his boss. I understand her, but she is a wonderful woman and I really like your mom.”
“Are you asking for… my permission?”
“I think that if she knew her daughter would be okay with it, it would help.”
“I like you Fred, I’ve no doubt that you are someone that could treat her right but… it feels weird. But… I can’t tell you no. It would be unfair. I guess, as long as you guys don’t act all lovey-dovey around me it would be fine. Does that make you my stepdad, then?”
“We’re not there yet.”
“Thank you. For letting me know and for taking care of my mom.”
When Lyanna told everything to Charles, he was not that surprised.
“I didn’t know but it’s been a while since I’ve seen Fred looking this happy. I thought that it was because of my performance but I guess I was wrong. Or at least, it’s not only because of me.”
“Isn’t it weird to you?”
“No. Fred is a good guy, don’t worry about your mom, she is in good hands.”
The next two races were not great for Charles with Max winning them and him ended up to positions he was not used anymore. The one month break between Singapore and Austin was welcomed. With Charles, they had planned a getaway of two weeks in Greece, just the two of them, away from distractions and people. They had rented a little house with a private beach.
They spent their days or in the beach and in the water, or in bed, leaving the house only when it was needed. But they didn’t care, they needed this time off away from everything before both of their schedules were starting to get busy again. With the last part of the season for Charles and the start of the Ferrari promo for Lyanna. She knew that she would not be able to come for the last races of the season beside Abu Dhabi, obviously, where she would be. No chance she was missing it.
“I’m going to miss you.” She said as they were laying in bed, Charles drawing patterns on her naked skin as she was listening to his heart beating.
“It’s just a few weeks and then I’m back home hopefully with a world championship title.”
And Lyanna believed him.
============
author's note: Sooooo, did you catch the references to the previous chapters 👀 I love how fluffy and drama free this chapter is. It was needed after the last two chapters lmao. And it feels a little bit like closure as well... the end is coming... (i'm gonna cry in the corner)
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Chapter 21:
I had the shiniest wheels, now they’re rusting…
Masterlist - Previous - Next
"You’ll be driving?" Charles voice sounded muffled "From Neuburg to Spielberg?"
"Yeah, it’s not just me, Felix as well. We’ll do a little road trip, maybe we put cameras in the car, conversations between a team principal and his driver." I chuckled a little, searching for my socks in my suitcase.
"I know your road trips. It’s just old music and you singing along. Or Taylor Swift and you singing along." he panted and then I heard a loud bang "Fuck."
"What are you doing? Are you okay?" I asked sitting down on the bed, putting the phone on speaker, laying it next to me, to pull on the socks.
"I’m dressing up. I overslept and now I’m late." Charles said "And I have your socks."
"I noticed, because I have yours… I don’t like them." I mumbled grabbing my sneakers, slipping in.
"I don’t like yours! They’re so thin! And too small." he said and I chuckled.
"Well and yours are too thick! And too big!" I said and he laughed.
"Whatever. So. Spielberg. You’re driving with Felix. Tomorrow, early in the morning?" Charles said.
"Yup. And just so you know, we’ll be listening to good old Classic Rock! Singing along. Dancing." I said and got up, walking over to the mirror to cover up my jaw.
"You definitely need a camera in there!" Charles laughed "Oh, and talking of cameras, Netflix will be with Ferrari this weekend."
"Ooouuuh! Sorry Mr. Drive to Survive." I said.
"Ha-ha. Very funny. It’s a little sad that they weren’t with you last weekend! That would’ve been an amazing episode!" Charles sighed and I packed my make-up away.
"I mean… they filmed me once or twice before. They just never were officially in our garage? Audi is not fancy or prestigious or successful enough I guess. Although Julie told me they want a special episode or something just with me, but I said we’re a team, so that’s not gonna happen!" I plopped down on the bed.
"Hmm. It could be interesting, an episode about you? To give some insights of the life of a female F1 driver? Maybe talk about how hard it was as a girl? Maybe that attention would help girls in motorsport?" Charles retorted.
"Great. Now I feel bad that I turned them down." I sighed and he chuckled.
"I’m sure Julie could talk with them, I mean if you really want to!" he said and I shrugged my shoulders.
"If it’s focussing on girls in motorsports and how tough it was to make it into F1? I’m in. Everything to help promote girls in motorsports!" I should had to talk to Julie.
"That’s the spirit!" I heard a car door slam shut "Wait a second, I won’t hear you when I start the engine and my phone connects to the car… can you hear me?"
"Loud and clear!" I got up and grabbed my bag, leaving the hotel room "You’re having a meeting with Mattia first, you said?"
"Yeah, Mattia and Laurent as far as I know… I kinda know what it’s about…" he said hesitantly.
"It’s about us, right? About what Laurent saw?" I almost whispered.
"I guess so, he didn’t say anything the whole weekend, so I guess he told Mattia and now we’re having the talk." Charles sighed a little and I felt bad.
"I’m sorry… if we wouldn’t keep this a secret you wouldn’t have to have this meeting now.” I said as I left the hotel.
"Stop it. I’ve seen what they write about you… us! Us as friends… I get it, okay?" he said immediately and I got in the car "But I’m here now…"
"Okay, then- umm… good luck? I don’t know what to say, to be honest!" I leaned my head back, closing my eyes.
"You don’t have to say anything, cara mia. I’ll call you later, okay? I love you! Bye for now!" and with that he hung up.
"I love you too." I whispered and started the engine, driving off the parking lot to the Audi facilities.
When I arrived at the gates I was surprised to see a little group of fans waiting for me and my heart warmed. One of the securities was trying to wave me through but I stopped the car and got out.
"Hi guys! What are you doing here?!" I asked them and they began to cheer.
"We’re here for you! You won! Congratulations!" a young girl screamed and the rest of the little crowd cheered even louder.
"We were hoping that you come here today!" a guy said and I smiled at them.
"You guys are awesome!" I honestly didn’t expect this.
"Can we take a picture with you?" another girl asked an I nodded.
"Of course! I would love to!" I stood next to her and posed for a selfie with her.
I took a lot more selfies, signed shirts, caps, poster and flags. I talked with every single person and didn’t wanted to make anyone feel left out. All while holding back tears. Of course I saw some fans at the races here and there, even knew about some fan accounts on Instagram, but I never expected fans waiting outside our factory for me. Almost like the Tifosi wait for Charles in Maranello. And I received a whole bunch of new bracelets, a scrapbook and even a doll, that looked like me. I was overwhelmed with their outpour of love and support.
"Okay you guys, huddle together I want a picture with all of you guys!" I said and the little crowd all squeezed together, I handed the security guard my phone and he took a picture "Thank you all so much! This means the world to me! I love guys! Have a safe trip back home, okay?!" I said and got back in my car.
"Kick some asses in Austria! Have a good race weekend!" they all screamed and I smiled at them.
"I will do my best! See you guys!" I waved one last time and drove through the gate, parking right next to where Felix was waiting for me.
"Lizzie! You’re late!" he opened my door for me and I smiled sheepishly at him.
"I’m sorry! I kinda lost all sense of time there…" I grabbed my phone and got out of the car.
"So you saw your little mob of fans waiting for you?" he said and closed the door of my car. I smiled and nodded.
"Yeah! How cute was that? God I love them! How long have they been waiting?"
"I have no idea. A while? But now come on in, we’re really late and have a lot to discuss!"
"Okay?" I said hesitantly, following him through the faculty, he unlocked a large door with his keycard and as soon as it opened a whole bunch of people applauded, Marcus being one of them.
"What is going on here?" I asked surprised.
"Well we wanted to give our race winner a very warm welcome!" Julius Seebach, CEO of Audi Motorsports smiled at me, shaking my hand "We’re all very proud of you, Lizzie! You and Valtteri have been representing us so very well! Right now we’re in P4 in the constructors! Only 8 points behind Mercedes! As a new team! Great job!"
"It wasn’t just me, or Valtteri, it’s this whole team! Every single one here! This is our win!"
"I don’t like sprint races…" I mumbled and Charles laughed.
"I’m not the biggest fan either, but it’s like this."
"Quali on a Friday feels weird." we walked towards the pits as someone shouted my name.
"Lizzie! Oi! Wait for me!" I turned around and Paul came running up to us "Hi! I thought we could walk back together?"
"Umm? Sure?" I said a little confused and Paul smiled at me, looking at Charles.
"I think we haven‘t met yet? I’m Paul. And you are…" he extended his hand towards Charles who shook it once "I’m just kidding! Of course I know who you are, Carlos!"
Charles clenched his jaw and opened his mouth to answer "I’m just messing with you, Charles." Paul laughed and slapped Charles on the shoulder.
"Very funny." Charles pressed out then turned to me "See you after quali? Good luck out there!" he pinched my side gently and I smiled at him.
"She won’t need luck! You Ferrari boys need it!" Paul laughed even louder and Charles looked at him and I thought he was contemplating what he should answer, but he just nodded and walked away.
"What was that?" I looked at Paul who just shrugged his shoulders.
"I’m just messing around. I didn’t know that he was so… so uptight?" Paul laughed and started walking.
"He’s not uptight."
"Okay. Noted. Carlos is the funny one out of the Ferrari guys!"
"What?"
"I had a laugh earlier with Carlos… Charles maybe is just not getting my type of humour…" he held up his hands.
"Well, yeah I didn’t get it either then." I said and walked away.
"Lizzie! Wait!" he grabbed my arm "I’m sorry, okay? I was really just joking! I’ll go and apologise to him?"
"No, it’s okay. But keep this kind of humour to yourself maybe from now on?" I said firmly.
"Promise!" he said and I nodded, walking to JK.
"Can we warm up a little?" I said and walked past him.
"Sure?" JK followed me back outside "What’s going on?"
"Nothing." I grumbled and JK adjusted the rubber bands around my head "All is good."
"Alright. I won’t say anything. But you know…"
"I can talk to you if needed. I know. Thanks."
Qualifying went good, really good, setting the second fastest time in Q1 and the third fastest in Q2. But then came Q3. Or rather the, according to Paul, funny one out of the Ferrari boys.
"Did he just overtake me in the fucking pit lane?"
"Yeah. He did."
"What the fuck? Did he never hear of the Gentleman’s agreement?"
"Apparently not. No."
I drove out on the track, starting my out lap, warming my tyres when Carlos began to drive slower in front. Then accelerated again just to brake again.
"What is he doing? I can’t warm my tyres like that?"
"Just keep going."
"Is someone coming from behind?"
"Hamilton, Max, Perez. Fast laps."
"How far away?"
"Don’t overtake him."
"But…"
"Lizzie. Hamilton behind. Closely followed by Max and then Perez. You can’t overtake before they all passed you."
"Yeah but then I’ll be almost in the last corner. Do I have time for a second out lap?"
"Negative."
"FUCK. Verdammte Scheisse! Sorry!"
"It’s okay."
It wasn’t okay. Far away from okay. Because of Carlos I couldn’t get enough temperature in my tyres and now I had to try and set up the fastest lap with only half warmed tyres. I watched as Carlos in front accelerated again and did the same. Pushing as much as possible as soon as I crossed the line and started my last attempt on a good grid position.
"And that’s P5."
"Ok."
"P1 Max. P2 Charles."
"P3 and 4?"
"Perez and Sainz."
"Awesome." I laughed. What else could I do. At least I wouldn’t have to start on the same side of the track. I could try to overtake him right at the start, before he could try to pull some shit again. I drove back into the pits. Climbed out of my car, congratulated Max, Charles and Checo, then did my weighing. I saw Carlos behind, joking with Lando and gritted my teeth.
"Walk off." Jo Bauer said in German and I looked up "Just walk it off." I nodded and he smiled a little, before the almost stoic look on his face returned. I did what he said and walked back into my garage, where my team waited for me.
"We will talk to the stewards. I’ve never seen a driver impeding another driver during their out lap. But still." Felix said but I shook my head.
"Don’t. I’m not whining and bitching about everything, like he does. It’s okay. I’ll do the talking on track."
"Are you sure?"
"100%."
"Hey Lizzie. You’re starting from P5 in tomorrow’s sprint race. Not the result you hoped for, after a strong Q1 and Q2?" ESPN Spain.
"Yeah. I mean, I had a certain red car in front of me, making my life not the easiest. But it’s okay. P5 is not too bad."
"There was a little squabble between you and Carlos, what happened?"
"What happened was that there is an agreement and someone decided to not give a fuck. And then someone decided to deliberately slow me down during my out lap, so yeah warming the tyres didn’t work out as planned."
"Carlos said it’s a gentleman’s agreement, so it applies only to gentleman’s."
"What?" I was 100% that I misheard it. I had more downs than ups with Carlos. But this? This was a low blow. I swallowed. "I mean, I thought it was an agreement between all drivers. Regardless of their gender."
"What is in for you tomorrow?"
"I don’t know. But as long as I’m in front of car number 55, I’m considering it a win." I shouldn’t have said that. I should not have said that. But fuck it I was furious.
"Are you out of your mind?" Julie groaned as soon as we left the media pen "Goddamnit Lizzie! You’re giving me a big fat headache and it’s only Friday! For fucks sake!"
"I want to see his interview after our meeting." was the only thing I said and walked off.
I kinda felt like it was a set up. Like the interviewer wanted to rile me up. Carlos wouldn’t say something like that in front of the cameras, right? Except that he indeed said it. I replayed the interview over and over.
"You didn't follow the gentleman's agreement there with Lizzie?"
"Yeah because it's an agreement between gentleman's…" emphasis on the man. And he laughed. Laughed.
"You’re kidding me, right? You did not say that! In front of a camera! You’re not that stupid!" Dad walked into my driver room, looking livid "Lizzie Doetterer! You know that if you just breathe into his direction tomorrow he will whine about it and use this interview against you!"
"Uh-huh… I know. It was a trap. And I was too blind to see it. ESPN Spain. How stupid can someone be?" I groaned and leaned back "I just know that there is a shit storm brewing up on social media."
"Then don’t read it! You have to be careful in the race tomorrow! He’s starting in front of you! Don’t let him make you do anything stupid! Stay calm! Leave him enough space! You know that he’s the first to complain!" Dad sighed and sat down next to me.
"Do you think we can leave? Or does Felix want to have a word with me alone? He was pretty calm and collected during the strategy meeting…" I looked at him and he chuckled.
"No, he said it’s fine. Well not fine. But it’s okay. We can leave." Dad got up and I grabbed my bag "
I turned on the shower and got in, sat down on the floor, hugging my knees up to my chest and laid my head down. The warm water cascading over me. I was tired. Exhausted. But more from the games the media still tried to play with me, than with anything else. The Spanish press has set their target on me. The questions on Thursday. Then today. And I played right into it.
"Good fucking job." I groaned.
"Lizzie?" Charles walked in and looked around, before he spotted me on the floor of the shower "Shit! Are you okay? Did you slip?" he opened the shower door and stepped in.
"I’m okay! I’m just sitting here! I didn’t slip, or trip or fall! I just sat down!" I assured him and Charles nodded.
"Okay! Good." he got up, his clothes soaked.
"Take them off and come in." I smiled up at him and he didn’t need to be asked twice. In an instant he closed the shower door and sat down next to me, lifting me into his lap.
"Hi." he kissed my shoulder, pushing some wet strands of hair out of my face "Why are we sitting in the shower?"
"I was too lazy to stand? I just wanted to sit under the water and relax a little? I know, I know. What a waste of water…" I nuzzled my face into the crook of his neck. He chuckled a little and I felt the vibration in his chest.
"We’re saving some water by me taking this shower with you instead of us doing it separately!" Charles stretched his arm out and grabbed my shampoo and conditioner in one go. Before he reached out for my shower gel "Here, let me…" he carefully carded his hands through my hair, entangling them, then squirted some shampoo in his hand and began to gently massage it into my scalp. He worked the shampoo down my lengths and then kissed my forehead before he tried to rinse out the suds "Can you grab the shower head? The stream from the rain shower isn’t strong enough. Perfect. Head back. There you go." He continued his ministrations until all the shampoo was gone, then he worked some conditioner in my hair and bundled them together at the nape of my neck, reading the back of the conditioner bottle "90 seconds… okay. I didn’t see you after quali?"
"Yeah I tried to leave quietly…" I mumbled.
"Hmm. It was a dick move from him. From overtaking in the pit lane, to slowing you down and then saying that shit in his interview…"
"I still shouldn’t have said that! It was a trap! He wanted to get a reaction out of me! And stupid me did just that!"
"You’re not stupid! It was in the heat of the moment and that reporter took full advantage of that!"
"Yeah and I played right into his cards…" I sighed and Charles grabbed my chin, tilting my head up, to look at him.
"Guess what? You’re human? You have emotions and sometimes they’re getting the better of you… don’t worry about it! Please?" he smiled at me, pouting a little and I nodded "Merci, mon amour." he kissed my cheek and grabbed the shower head again, washing the conditioner out.
"You’re next!" I said and grabbed my shampoo, massaging it into Charles’ hair and scalp.
"Mhhh I’ll smell like you." he whispered and his warm breath fanned over my ear, making me shudder. He chuckled a little but let me finish washing his hair, then I used only a couple of drops of conditioner and worked it in his hair "My hair will be just as fluffy and shiny as yours! People will start to wonder why my hair looks this amazing tomorrow!"
"They will ask you what products you’re using." I joked and he laughed.
"My girlfriends… and then they all go crazy, because I’m using women stuff!"
"I think they would go crazy because you dropped the bomb that you’re not single anymore."
"Possible… but nope I think it’s the hair products."
"Idiot."
"Hey!" Charles pinched my side and began to tickle me, holding me tight with his other arm to his body, no matter how hard I tried to wriggle out of his lap "Okay stop…" he let out a breathy groan and I grinned, feeling exactly what was bothering him "Stop looking at me like that!"
"Like what?" I pouted a little and he groaned again, grabbing my waist, holding me down to stop me from moving. I felt his hard length press into my thigh and grinned "Seems like you’re having a little problem."
"Little?" he scoffed.
"Big? Huge? Gigantic?"
"Better."
"If it helps you sleep better at night…" I teased but regretted it instantly, his hand dipped in between my legs, my breathing hitched.
"Seems like I’m not the only one who has a little problem, no?" his eyes darkened as I quickly shook my head, trying to gather myself when his next move elicited a soft moan from deep within me. I pulled his face closer, breathing ragged. "Say it." My eyes widened with every flick of his fingers. "Just admit it…"
"You’re not the- the only one…" I breathed out.
"That’s what I thought…"
"Charles…"
"Hmm?"
"Please…"
"I got you, pretty girl."
"Not at all creepy." Charles groaned as he opened his eyes and I chuckled.
"What? In romance books and movies it’s always cute, watching your boyfriend sleep."
"Yeah no. It’s not. So stop."
"So you never watched me sleep?"
"I did."
"And?"
"You’re adorable. Always having a cute smile on your lips, then that smile turns into a thrown and you scrunch up your nose and eyebrows, just to smile again… and your cute, little snores. Adorable!"
"I’m NOT snoring!" I tried to slap his arm but he caught my hand mid flight and pulled me onto him in one swift move.
"Yes you do, just every now and then. And so adorable! It’s the cutest!"
"So, you watch me sleep and it’s adorable? I watch you sleep and it’s creepy?"
"Uh-huh! You got it!" he kissed my cheek, working his way down my jaw before he stopped, eyes widened "Fuck! Lizzie!" he sat us both up, switching the light on "Fuck! Why didn’t you say something?"
"What are you talking about?" I was confused.
"Your jaw! Fuck! I was too rough, I’m so, so sorry!" he looked ashamed and it dawned on me "I grabbed your jaw way too tight! It’s bruising already! Why didn’t you say that I hurt you?"
"Because you didn’t! Okay? Look at me, Charles. That wasn’t you! It’s all good! Look closely! It’s already healing, they’re not fresh! Look here, my wrist as well…" I showed him my wrist and his eyes widened.
"Who did this to you?" his voice dripped with anger and worry.
"Two little monsters… when we were having a tickle fight… sometimes they underestimate their strength a little and the fact that I bruise pretty fast didn’t help! You know how my thighs and arms used to be sprinkled with little bruises from Liam? Him grabbing my arms, or trying to stand in my lap? When he was a little munchkin?" I laughed and Charles took a deep breath.
"Did it hurt?" he tilted my head up a little to look at my jaw "How did that even happen? Were they holding you in a chokehold?"
"No, it didn’t hurt and it was more me grabbing Liam trying to do a wrestling move and him just grabbing onto something to not fall… nothing bad at all, no pain, no nothing!" I reassured him as best as I could.
"Why didn’t I see the bruises before?"
"Make-up? And my wrist? I don’t know?" I shrugged my shoulders and got up.
"Okay… but I think I have to have a word with these little rascals…" he laid back, checking his phone.
"Please don’t, they will feel bad and I really don’t want that! Nothing happened, it didn’t hurt, so we just should keep it like that…"
"You’re right… but Lizzie? If I ever hurt you or be too rough? You’ll say it, right?" he looked at me intently.
"Of course… but I like it… you know…" I smiled suggestively at him and disappeared into the bathroom.
As soon as the door was closed I took a deep breath. Blaming Liam and Benji was so wrong and I felt bad. But it was the only lie I could come up with fast enough and Charles seemed to believe it. At least now I didn’t have to cover it up first things first in the morning. I sighed and began my morning routine, getting ready for the day, when Charles walked in.
"Look at my hair, from now on I’m only using your stuff, cara mia." Charles carded through his fluffy locks and I smiled.
"You look just like a dream, pretty boy. My stuff is your stuff. And now hurry up, we have an eventful day ahead of us!" one last kiss on his cheek and I walked out.
After the free practice I grabbed myself an apple and a bottle of water and met up with Charles to watch Arthur’s sprint race.
"He’s starting from P9?" I asked Charles as we watched the cars line up again after the formation lap.
"Yes. I really hope he has a good race!" Charles said and I nodded along.
"I have a good feeling!"
"Then I trust your feelings!"
We watched with anticipation the race start and how Arthur overtook 2 cars right at the start.
"Good job!" I cheered and Charles next to me clapped excitedly, as we saw the yellow flag being waved, both checking the huge screen in front of us "What happened?"
"There at turn 3, a car stopped… oh safety car." Charles pointed at the screen.
"Oh, as long as it’s not Arthur…" I mumbled and I could see Charles smiling a little.
As soon as the safety car was ending and the race started again we watched how Arthur fought his way to the front lap after lap.
"He’s in P5 now! He can do it! He can make it on the podium!" I jumped up and down.
"Yeah if he stays focused like this!" Charles leaned forward as Arthur breezed past us. He fought hard with his teammate, Bearman, and another driver, Maloney, and the three of them went wide, at the corner exit of turn 3 Bearman and Maloney touched which resulted in the latter to retire and brought out another safety car.
"This race is stressing me out more than our races!" I looked at the screen again, that showed a replay of the incident, Charles pulled me to his side nudging my shoulder a little.
"Don’t stress too much, you have a race of your own later." he chucked as we watched how the safety car came back to the pits.
With 7 more laps to go and Arthur now in P4, his fight with Colapinto for P3 was on. IT was a back and forth but in the final lap Arthur had passed him and due to a lock up from Colapinto managed to gain a little space between them, making him taking the checkered flag in P3. Charles and I jumped excitedly up and down, hugging each other.
"He did it!" we both screamed and we happily made our way to the barriers where Arthur would park his car any moment. Rene Rosin and some of the PREMA crew stood there, waiting for Arthur.
"Lizzie! Charles! Good to see you two!" he hugged as both happily "He did an amazing job! Fantastic! You can be proud of him!"
"He was amazing! What a race!" I said and watched how Arthur parked his car, jumping out, pumping his fists back and forth. As soon as he spotted us at the barriers he ran up to us and Charles hugged him close.
"Amazing race, Arthur!" he said and patted his back before he released him and I hugged him tight.
"Fantastic job, Arthi! We’re so proud of you!"
"Thanks guys!" Arthur said, his voice muffled through his helmet. I let go of him and he hugged his team.
We watched how Arthur got his trophy and cheered the loudest as a reporter from Sky walked up to us.
"Charles, Lizzie. A word to the race and your brother’s result?" he asked.
"It was an exciting race, for sure and we’re proud of Arthur, finishing in P3." Charles smiled wide.
"He did an amazing job, a good race from him. It always feels special watching the F3 and F2 races, knowing that’s where we were a couple of years ago ourselves." I smiled.
"It gives these young drivers maybe even a little hope, seeing F1 drivers watching their race?"
"I mean, if we made it, they can make it as well!" I said and Charles nodded.
"Thank you guys! And good luck in your own sprint race later on!"
We smiled and left, making our way back to the paddock.
Charles POV:
"Charles? Hey?" Andrea pinched my arm and I flinched "Ready to warm up?"
"Yeah…" I watched how JK and Lizzie warmed up for the sprint race, Paul sitting on a table watching them. The way he eyed Lizzie’s every movement. Undressing her practically with his eyes. I hated him.
"Well then?" Andrea sighed and sat down "What is going on with you?"
"What?" I asked, eyes still trained on Paul, who now stood next to Lizzie, his hand on her arm, laughing. Why was he always touching her? Andrea followed my look and chuckled a little.
"You know that she loves you more than anything? You don’t need to be worried!"
"It’s not her I’m worried about… it’s him! I hate him." I groaned and Andrea got up and patted my back.
"Trust her. That’s all you can do. And now come on!"
"Yeah, yeah. You’re right." I sighed, one last look at Lizzie and Paul. Lizzie looked up as if she felt my eyes on her and she smiled at me, that smile that was only meant for me, her eyes sparkling, cheeks slightly pink. God I loved that smile. Loved her.
"Charles? A word?" Mattia waved me over and I put down my helmet.
"Yes?"
"About the race… no more about Lizzie."
"What’s with her?" I cocked an eyebrow.
"You heard what she said yesterday?"
"You heard what Carlos said? Saw what he did?"
"That’s not the point." he rolled his eyes.
"It kinda is." I retorted.
"Charles, she’s mad and we both now her good enough that she can be reckless. So if Carlos manages to overtake Perez and Lizzie manages that as well and is behind Carlos again, we want you to switch positions. To protect Carlos."
"You’re kidding? Right? Lizzie might be reckless, but she’s not stupid? She wouldn’t do something that could potentially end her race as well! And why do I have to give up my position? I’m fighting with Max! I can’t focus on what’s going on behind me!"
"You focus on Max, of course! But if we see that you can’t catch him, then we must protect Carlos, you will switch back positions in the last lap."
"And does he know that, too?" I walked away, grabbing my helmet.
Unbelievable. They really thought that Lizzie would be this stupid? And not just that. They wanted me to give up my position to protect Carlos? As if Lizzie was out for his head?
"Charles? Ready?" Alessandro said and I nodded.
But was I really?
"Stay away from Sainz! You hear me? Stay away. Try to overtake him at the start, right away. Don’t get into any stupid fights!" Dad said and I rolled my eyes "Lizzie!"
"Little one you know he’s right! It’s Sainz! You will just be wheel to wheel and he will whine! They have a solid reason to believe that you’re out for his head!" Felix tried to reason with me.
"I got it, okay? I stay as far away from him as possible!" I groaned and grabbed my helmet, nodding to Matt "Don’t worry! I’m not that stupid!"
Until I was.
After I overtook Carlos at the start, he attacked, aggressively. More than once pushing me off the track. But I didn’t retaliate and now he was in front again. After clipping my front wing.
"Lizzie 9 more laps to go."
"How’s the car?"
"It’s okay."
"He pushed me off! I was in front! Way ahead! And he pushed me!"
"We saw that."
"Is it under investigation ?"
"Not as of now."
"He did that move at least 3 times! And I always backed down!"
"We know."
"Fucking hell."
I was furious. I was keeping my calm. Not fighting back because I knew they would bitch about it in no time. But they’re not even having a look into the last laps incident? He didn’t brake at all, clipped my front wing, still not backing down? I accelerated. If he can drive dirty. I could too. Although I had to do it cleverer. I was at his tail. DRS enabled. I got one last gulp of slipstream and pretended to overtake him from the outside. Just like anticipated he wavered onto the outside as well to block my attack and I braked hard to switch sides, going down the inside. The good old switcheroo. As I was almost ahead he steered into me, forcing me into braking. But not this time. I backed down time and time again. This time I wouldn’t. I pushed the throttle fully through and we went wheel to wheel, I pushed hard and felt the contact, felt how I hit the kerbs hard, felt the car tumbling but was able to keep it on track, forcing him to brake to prevent more damage. I was ahead, speeding away. Fuck yes.
"Gap to Sainz?" I radioed but no answer.
"Gap to Sainz?" I repeated.
"1.8"
"Good." Out of DRS range, 6 more laps to go. I will finish ahead and that would be a P4 I could live with.
"Lizzie. You’ve got a 5 seconds penalty for causing a collision."
"Of fucking course."
Actions have consequences. And here they were. Served in the form of a penalty. After being pushed off the track, getting my front wing clipped. Without whining and bitching. Without my team asking the racing director why his attacks weren’t under investigation.
"Gap?"
"2.1, his front wing is damaged."
"How many laps?"
"5"
"Gap now after every lap."
5 more laps for 3 seconds. I did more back in F2. Full focus now. Hitting the apex of every corner perfectly. Late braking. Using the kerbs. It was possible.
"3.5"
4 more laps for 1.5 seconds. Easy. Done.
"3.9. Perez ahead 1.2"
3 more laps for 1.1 seconds. I could maybe even get into the DRS range of Checo.
"4.2. Perez 1."
2 more laps for 0.8 seconds. And I was almost in Checo’s DRS range.
"4.5. DRS Perez."
Bingo. Last lap. I used Checo’s slipstream, pushed as hard as I could. Made it in front of him, taking the checkered flag.
"Gap to Sainz, 5.1 seconds. You did it Lizzie. That’s P4. Wonderful job!"
"FUCK YEAH!"
"5 seconds penalty but still managed to stay ahead of Carlos, good job!" Timo Glock said as I went to have a little talk with Sky Germany after the sprint race.
"Yeah well, I tried my hardest to gain that position." I shrugged my shoulders.
"Why didn’t your team complain earlier to the stewards? He pushed you off 3 times?" Peter Hardenacke asked.
"I don’t need them to sort out my race. And apparently they didn’t want to do it anyways. So why cry about it?"
"Ferrari asked immediately after the fourth contact…"
"Yeah if they need to do that? If their driver can’t pass me without help? Let them. I was backing down 3 freaking times, got pushed off the track, had also a damaged front wing. But I was beating him fair and square. And like you said I managed to make up one position although I had a penalty. Good day in my books."
"Good day indeed! Good luck for tomorrow!" Timo said and I smiled.
"Thanks guys! See you!" I handed them my microphone and walked back into our hospitality.
"I’m proud of you!" Dad sat in the lounge scrolling through his iPad "You didn’t say anything too controversial. Oh what is that look… Lizzie?"
"I might’ve been a little petty when talking to Sky Germany. Nothing too bad. I promise."
"You’re giving me a heart attack one day!"
"Oh come on papa bear! You can handle it!" I laughed as Pete walked in "Quick debrief?"
"No. You’re summoned by the stewards." he said and I stopped laughing immediately.
"What for? They already gave me a penalty during the race?"
"I don’t know. Felix is already waiting."
"Good morning, sleeping beauty." Charles gentle voice coaxed me out of my slumber and I turned around, cuddling into him "I didn’t hear you coming back last night?"
"The meeting took forever and then I…" I stopped and sighed.
"And then you what?" he began to draw figure eights on my waist but I shook my head.
"I sat at the track for a while."
"Alone? At night?"
"Yeah. I wanted to get a clear head."
"Carlos? The FIA?"
"Everything. The last weeks were… a lot. That article. Hans death. Silverstone. Now this."
"We’re almost done with the first half of the season, mon amour. Then we’ll have summer break. Time to relax. Recharge the batteries. Time for us."
"I haven’t even thought about the summer break to be honest."
"But I have. The first week it’s all of the family together. The second week it’s us and our friends and the last week? Time for us. It’s all already planned, you don’t have to worry at all."
"You already planned it all?"
"I hope that’s okay?" he sounded unsure and I tilted my head up, looking at him.
"It’s perfect. You’re perfect." he kissed my head and checked the time.
"As much as I would love to stay here forever like this, we have a race to attend. So come on now, pretty girl. Shower, breakfast and let’s go."
"Lizzie?" Dad peaked inside and I looked up.
"Yeah?" I bent down again, lacing up my sneakers.
"Did Felix already tell you that there are some VIP guests here?" he asked and I sighed a little, getting up and checking myself in the mirror.
"Yup, he did. That’s why I applied make-up as you can see and why I took care that my braids look good… don’t worry, I’ll woo them." I rolled my eyes, grabbing my team hoodie and pulling it over my head, careful not to mess up my hair.
"What?" Dad looked confused.
"I mean, VIP guests? I thought I should look my best, represent Audi the best as possible?" I said and grabbed my phone and sunglasses "So I’m wearing the Audi sneakers, team hoodie, the Audi sunglasses, would there be an Audi jeans, I would wear it."
"Okay… I mean, you don’t look different then on any other race day but… anyways, let’s go." he chuckled a little and I followed him, good to know that all my efforts where for nothing apparently.
As we walked into the garage I saw JK and Sissy talking to a man and a woman, whose backs were facing me, I looked around, but couldn’t see Liam anywhere.
"Pops? Where is Liam?" I asked and he looked around.
"Ahhh! There she is! Lizzie, come over here!" Sissy said and I walked over to her as the two people she was talking to turned around and I stopped dead in my tracks.
"Hi Lizzie! It’s so good to see you again!" Susi Maier smiled at me and her husband, Marco, did the same. I was at a loss of words when someone hugged my waist and I looked down.
"Lizziiiiiieeee!" Luka had the biggest smile on his face and I felt tears stinging in my eyes, I bent down and picked him up. Held him tight to my chest. The images of him shellshocked on the street, the fear in his eyes when I tried to shield him off, his faint whimper when we came to a halt on the grass, the tears streaming down his face when he lifted his head up. It all came back.
"Luka? Wh- what are you doing here?" I asked and watched how his parents, Sissy and JK smiled at us.
"Your Dad called and asked if we want to come here, finally see you race in F1… of course we had to say yes!" Marco said and I nodded slowly.
"This is… the best surprise ever! Thank you guys so much for coming!" I sat Luka down, wiping the tears from my face. My heart was racing and I felt hot. Too hot.
"I thought you could show them around a little? Show them your car? I’m sure Luka would love to have a seat in it, right?" Dad said from behind me.
"Can I really sit in your car?" Luka asked with big eyes and I nodded, still trying to calm myself down a little.
"It’s so cool sitting in there!" Liam said as he walked in with Charles, sporting his all consuming smile, shaking hands with Susi and Marco, introducing himself.
"I’m so happy to meet you!" he said and Susi blushed a little, something her husband acknowledged, and gently put an arm around her waist.
"Is it allowed that a driver of another team enters the garage?" Marco asked, sounding really curious.
"Well, Charles is the only exception!" Felix answered as he walked up to us, patting Charles back. He looked at me intently and I knew that he could sense how overwhelmed I was, although I was trying to hide it. He walked over to me, gently cupping my cheeks and wiping away the last of my tears.
"Are you okay?" he whispered and I nodded slowly "If you need a moment?"
"I’m okay. It’s just… a lot. But a positive lot!" I smiled and he nodded, kissing my forehead "Careful, where not alone."
"I don’t care, not right now." he smiled a little and then stepped aside "If you need me, call, text, scream, whatever. I’ll be here! Okay?"
"Okay… thanks, really!" he only nodded again and walked away, not before ruffling Liams hair when passing him.
"So! Who wants to sit in my car?" I asked and Luka jumped up excitedly.
"Me! Me! Me!" he screeched and Liam tapped his shoulder and they ran off to my car.
I waved to the crowd when the flatbed was making his way around the track, watching how between all the orange here and there a Germany flag was waved. I watched how Charles got interviewed and had to smile at how he was so enthralled in talking about the upcoming race. His passion and love for racing was one of the many things I admired at him. The way his eyes lit up when asked about how he’ll manage to overtake Max and win the race. The way that fire in him brought out his raw competitiveness. I was so engrossed, listening to him that Seb had to wave his hand in front of my face. I blinked confused and looked at him.
"Earth to Lizzie… are you there?" he laughed and I shook my head.
"I’m sorry! I was lost in my thoughts…" I said and he cocked his eyebrows, turning slightly to look at Charles.
"Lost in the pretty boy, you mean…"
"Yeah… I mean look at him? You can’t blame me…" I chuckled and he nodded.
"So, the kid running around with Liam? He’s the one…" Seb began and I nodded "Is it the first time you saw him after?"
"Kinda… they came by when I was in the hospital. But then they moved to Australia, where Marco had a new job. We texted every now and then… then they moved back home and with me racing now in F1, there was just not enough time I guess?" I explained and he scratched his beard.
"Nice that they’re here, supporting you. The kid and Liam seem to get along pretty well?"
"Yeah, which is weird? Liam is… well he’s a bit difficult when it comes to other kids? But him and Luka?" I smiled. It was true. Finding new friends was never easy for Liam. Being way too hyperactive, but also very sensitive, other kids mostly ended up being deemed no friends. Seeing him getting along with Luka that well, really made me happy.
"Pretty girl? What are you thinking of?" Charles whispered into my ear and I flinched a little "Sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you!"
"It’s okay, I was thinking about Liam and Luka because Seb… where is Seb?" I looked around, Seb now getting interviewed, looking at me and laughing a little.
"You’re a little out of it today? I mean after…" he began and I just nodded "It’s okay. You can’t always have everything under control."
"When do I ever have anything under control?" I sighed and he chuckled.
"Lizzie, another podium today for you, it’s your fifth podium in your eleventh race, you had a pretty good first half of a season for a rookie. How does that feel?"
"Fifth? Umm- okay. How does it feel? Unreal? Unbelievable? I honestly have no words for how amazing this season is going… the team works so hard for Valtteri and me, hours and hours of hard work in the factory. Everyone here at the track from the logistics guys, to the mechanics, engineers, media guys, strategists, god the amazing caterers! Everyone works so incredibly hard! I’m just more than proud to be a part of this team! I will be forever thankful for the opportunity, the trust, Felix and the whole Audi team gave me… so yeah, that’s how it feels. Fucking amazing!" I said and Charles smiled at me, eyes bright, after his fifth win today.
"Matthias Bircher, from Auto, Motor, Sport. Question for Lizzie, you’ve been penalised and fined by the FIA yesterday, once for the collusion with Carlos during the sprint race and then for your interview after quali on Friday. Do you think these punishments were justified? You didn’t seem to care much about it?"
"I honestly think it’s ridiculous. I’m getting fined for being mad about the very sexist comment of another driver, doesn’t matter if he said it as a joke, in that moment it wasn’t one, while he’s not being fined? Then I get a penalty for having the upper hand while overtaking? Whereas he pushed me off track 3 times before, clipping my front wing? Without a penalty? And then reporting back to the stewards that I deliberately crashed into their driver, because I said it beforehand that I would target him? When did I say that? So no, I don’t think any of that was justified, but you were right. I didn’t care much for it."
"Laura Killigan, motosport.se . Question for Charles and Max. What do you think about the penalties? Do you think they were deserved?"
"No. They weren’t deserved. I understand why Lizzie said what she said? Not just that it was a low blow, even if it only was meant as a joke, it was also something that happened at quali. He overtook her in the pit lane and then kinda impeded her on her final out lap. I totally understand that Lizzie was furious! So if you want to fine her, then Carlos should be fined as well. As for the sprint race, I saw the replay and must say I wouldn’t give a penalty for any of the incidents? But if Lizzie get’s one, Carlos again should’ve been penalised as well. They were both fighting hard." Max said and looked at me.
"I think Max said everything there is to be said. Punish both or no one. The way it was handled was unfair." Charles put his microphone down and tilted his head in my direction.
"No more questions? Alright, that’s it. See you all in two weeks at Paul Ricard. Thank you!" Tom Clarkson ended the press conference and I jumped up.
"Will you guys make use of your right to appeal the decisions?" Max asked when we walked back and I shook my head.
"Nope. We’re not doing that. I don’t want this farce going on longer then needed. It’s 10.000,- Euro and 2 penalty points. We accept it and it’s done."
"But it’s unfair. Ca- umm Lizzie! You really should appeal!" Charles said, clearing his throat at his almost slip up.
"I understand you, it’s annoying and takes up time you could use otherwise." Max shrugged his shoulders and I nodded.
"Exactly!" I groaned and Max hugged me as we stopped in front of Red Bull.
"Chin up and don’t care. You let your results speak for yourself." he gave Charles a little pat on the shoulder and was gone.
"I’m sorry that Ferrari were behaving like… well yeah like that." Charles mumbled a little and I bumped my shoulder into his.
"It’s not your fault. I finished ahead of Carlos in both races. That’s a win in my book. Now cheer up a little. We’re having a little celebration tonight." I smiled at him and he nodded, hugging me tight.
"I really can’t wait for tonight… especially if you wear that little, black dress I’ve seen in your suitcase… you’ll look gorgeous!" he whispered in my ear and I blushed a little "See you later, cara mia."
The whole drive from Neuburg back home I only had one thing on my mind: Netflix. A three part mini series. Drive to Survive Originals: The story of Lizzie Doetterer. I honestly had no idea what to think about it. They wanted to highlight my way from karting over Formula Regional, to GP3, F2, then to WSeries and finally into F1. How hard it was as a girl coming this far. The challenges I had to face. But they also wanted to see my private life, past and present. How could I provide that? There was already enough of my private life splattered out for the world to see. What were the boundaries? Did I have a say in what was filmed? What would make the Final Cut? I had the words of the Netflix representative in my head "Think about the money." I never really cared for the money? Why would I now? Mum, Dad and Rita handled all my money related business. I was deep in thoughts when Charles called.
"Hey pretty boy."
"Hi cara mia, you sound exhausted?"
"Tough days. I’m just happy to go home now." I sighed a little.
"Oh I know that sigh. What’s going on?"
"Netflix."
"Netflix?"
"Netflix!"
"Cara mia I need more than that?"
"Drive to Survive Originals: The story of Lizzie Doetterer. A three part mini series."
"Sounds amazing. I would binge it." Charles chuckled.
"The motorsport side of it? Yeah… but the “who is Lizzie Doetterer outside of racing? The person behind the lid?”- side of the story? I don’t know."
"So it’s not entirely about racing?"
"No. They want to show parts of my private life. Show me as an approachable, young woman. Who was oppressed half her life by male competitors. How it affected me as a person. How it affected my family and friends… they even want you and Pierre in it… because of our karting past!"
"Max?"
"He said a long time ago fuck off to them, so I guess no."
"Will you do it?"
"I don’t know. I don’t want to reveal the last remaining private parts of my life to Netflix and therefore the world…"
"Understandable. But the other aspect would be good. For every young girl with a love and passion for motorsport."
"Jeez! Rub salt in the wound…"
"Sorry, cara mia. I just think you maybe have to talk to them? How much of your private life they want to show. And how much power over the content they’ll show in the end you’ll be having?"
"Yeah, maybe you’re right. I’ll have a talk with Julie. Thanks… you really helped me."
"Always. So where are you right now?"
"Around 30 minutes away from home."
"You’ll be going with Liam tomorrow to that father-son-thing?"
"Well as far as I know, yes. He said it’s okay if I want to come. But I don’t have to. When I said I was excited he seemed to be a little happy. But Sissy texted me an hour ago that there were kids laughing at him because he’s taking me, his aunt, not even an uncle, instead of his dad… so yeah. I don’t know. I guess I’ll have to wait and see what’s his mood tomorrow."
"Why are kids so mean?"
"No idea. I just know that if he really doesn’t want to go tomorrow, because I’m a girl, I definitely won’t be mad at him… because that’s what he said to Sissy. He only said yes to me because he didn’t want me to feel bad… and now? I don’t know. I want him to go there tomorrow, head held high. Smile on his face with a proud attitude that he can have fun with everyone. But also I just want to stay at home with him and cuddle him and tell him it’s okay to stay at home if he doesn’t want to go with me, his aunt, a girl, to a field trip with only boys/men…"
"Tough. I’m really sorry. I wish I could do something."
"I think no one of us can."
"That sucks."
"You don’t say?"
"I don’t want to hang up, but Sylvia is giving me her evil look. I think they’ll need me."
"Alright. Call me when you’ve got time. Love you."
"I love you more."
I sat at the kitchen island, waiting for Sissy and Liam, as she walked into the kitchen, sighing.
"He’s definitely not coming out of his room…" she said and sat down next to me.
"What the hell did these kids say to him?" I asked and she shrugged her shoulders.
"I don’t know. He just said he doesn’t want to go anymore…" she looked defeated "I hate him, he doesn’t care for his son! He was suing me, trying to get his name on the birth certificate, Liam having his last name? For what? What if the court would granted him all his demands? He would’ve still fucked everything up and not be here for him! And now Liam refuses to go to this trip because it’s a father and son day! Whose idea was that? How insensitive are they?" I could see the tears prickling in her eyes and hugged her "There will be so many situations where he needs a dad, but he only has me!"
"We’ll manage it. He has all of us." I said and got up "And now I’ll get him so we can all be upset together." I left and walked up into their loft. "Bubba? Can I come in?"
"I’m not going on the trip!" he whispered, his voice hoarse.
"That’s okay, but can you come downstairs? We’re upset, you’re upset, let’s all be upset together? And maybe have some ice cream for breakfast?" I said and he looked up. Jackpot. "Come on, ice cream and movies?"
"Okay…" he nodded and took my hand and together we walked downstairs.
"Hey my baby boy… everything ok now?" Sissy asked him gently and he shrugged his shoulders.
"We’re having ice cream for breakfast!" he said and my sister looked at me with wide eyes "And we’re watching movies!"
"Umm yeah, sure…" she replied and I just grinned apologetically as I heard a car approaching, one look out of the kitchen window and my heart skipped a beat. I heard the car door closing and just a moment later Charles walked into the kitchen.
"Sorry that I’m late, but I had to stop at the petrol station. Ready, Bubba?" he said a little out of breath and Liam jumped into his arms.
"You’re coming with me? Really?" he asked and Charles nodded.
"Of course! Now come on! Get dressed!" he sat Liam down who sprinted away.
"You’re here?" Sissy asked with a thin voice, tears in her eyes.
"I‘m here!" Charles answered smiling at her and Sissy hugged him.
"Thank you, Charles! You have no idea what that means to me! No, what it means to him!" she whispered.
"I will always try to be here for him, no matter what!" he smiled and looked at me and I had to do my best to not cry.
"I’ll help him, we’ll be back in a minute!" Sissy said and followed Liam upstairs.
"Hey, cara mia." he whispered and pulled me into his arms, a gentle kiss on my lips.
"Thank you!" I just whispered and he hugged me tighter.
"Everything for you…" he said and I could hear Liam approaching.
"Did you see how high the platforms are, Charlie? That’s going to be so scary! But so cool!" he was the happiest little kid all of a sudden again, all because of Charles. With one last hug for all of us the two boys left and I waved them goodbye at the door, Charles smiling at me. How could someone be this perfect?
For the next 2 days straight we heard story after story of how great the high ropes course was. Liam was smiling that much, I was almost afraid he would be in pain by now.
"And then at the last platform, it’s the highest of all of them, you can decide if you want to be lowered down, or roping down or, and that’s only for the toughest ones they said, if you want to jump! And then it’s like free fall for a couple of metres before there is some kind of brake at the harness that you’re wearing! And guess what! They were all too scared! No one did it! But Charlie and I we were brave enough!" Liam beamed.
"Oh wow! That sounds so cool! Next time I want to join in!" I said and he nodded.
"We can all go! Maybe Omi and Pops not? They’re a little old…" he whispered the last part and Charles had to laugh.
"I heard that!" Dad shouted from the barbecue and Liam giggled a little.
"Ooopsie!" he jumped out of my lap and disappeared inside.
"You made him the happiest, coming here and going on that field trip with him!" Dad said as he sat down next to us.
"I needed it as well. A little break away from…" Charles began but then shook his head.
"What’s going on at the Scuderia?" Dad asked and I looked up from my book.
"The usual. Nothing to concerning."
"They were giving you a hard time… because of Austria?" I said and he nodded a little.
"They weren’t the happiest that I didn’t had Ferrari’s back when it came to your penalties… but I said that it was unfair what the FIA was doing. They kinda accepted it." he shrugged his shoulder and I sighed.
It hurt that Ferrari was turning into some kind of enemy. They were still the team my heart belonged to, the team that awakened my love for Formula 1. The team I celebrated big triumphs with. But more and more they turned into more than just a competitor. The rivalry between Carlos and I was topic number one in all F1 related blogs, podcasts and so on, over the past week. But it wasn’t just Carlos who agitated me. No it was Ferrari’s treatment of Charles. More so Mattia Binotto’s treatment of Charles. The strategy blunders? The unreliable car. Just too many mistakes, screwing Charles over more than once.
"Lizzie?" Charles threw a grape at me and I looked up "Where were you again?"
"Sansibar." I chuckled and he cocked an eyebrow "I was just thinking about… umm…"
"Netflix?"
"Netflix! I guess I really will have a talk with Julie…"
"What does Netflix want from you?" Dad chimed in and I realised that I forgot to tell my family about it. Charles was happy to fill him and Mum and Sissy who joined us outside in.
"That sounds amazing! Think about the millions of people you could reach? They all will know then how hard it was for you to make it into F1!" Sissy said.
"It would mean a lot to every girl who’s interested in motorsports out there." Mum agreed.
"But they want to film my private life as well? Imagine we’re sitting here. Having a conversation like this and there is a camera crew? It’s like the Kardashian’s thing? Am I supposed to sit here, eat a salad and talk about I don’t know what? While being filmed?" I really wasn’t sure about it.
"I would like to think we’re a little more interesting than the Kardashians…" Dad said and I had to laugh "Whoever they are."
"Funny guy." I groaned as Liam ran out of the house, handing Dad the phone.
"Someone for you. He said he’s a lawyer."
"Okay? Thanks Bubba." Dad got up and walked away.
"A lawyer?" Charles looked at me but I had no idea what’s going on, so I looked at Mum.
"Don’t look at me! I have no idea…" she held her hands up and I watched Dad closely. He talked for another 5 minutes until he hung up and came back.
"What’s going on?" I said as soon as he sat down.
"That was Hans‘ lawyer. The testament was opened and now they’re needing us to accept our share." he said and I gulped "We have an appointment tomorrow."
"Great." was all I could say, Charles took my hand in his and squeezed it gently.
"It’s in the morning, so you guys can leave as planned tomorrow night." Dad said and Charles nodded.
"You’re awfully quiet, cara mia?" Charles asked after we’ve driven for almost 3 hours.
"Hans was a freaking multi millionaire!" I exclaimed and he looked at me "Seriously. He set up trust funds for his two grandkids, really generous ones, then a large amount for his son. And the rest of his private fortune… well I get it. And then of course the karting track and all the business accounts? It’s a freaking lot! I spoke with Dad, we’re not selling the karting track. We keep it and he will take over the academy. Hans had a bunch of new ideas for the track and the academy and Dad will take care of it."
"But that sounds good, no? You don’t seem to be too happy about it?"
"I mean… Dad already sacrificed so much for me, he was only working part time to support me and travel with me. Now the academy? I don’t want him to feel obligated to do it?"
"Did you tell him that?"
"Yeah…"
"And?"
"He said he would quit his job and focus on the karting track 100%. Realise all of Hans’ plans for a complete renovation and modernisation of the track…"
"But that’s a good thing? If he wants to do that?"
"It is. It’s just… he will have all the work, all the pressure, all the stress! And still will try to be at as many races as possible! I’m just afraid it’s getting all too much for him…"
"Hmm. He just loves watching you race. But yeah maybe he should split his time then a little?"
"Can you tell him that? Because when I did, he just rolled his eyes and said he’ll be fine…"
"You want me to tell Pops what to do? Hell no."
"You’re a scaredy-cat!"
"I’m not, I just know that he won’t listen anyway."
"Maybe I could ask Mum to talk to him?"
"Sounds like a plan."
We continued our drive in silence and I slowly drifted off every now and then, although trying my best to stay awake.
"You can sleep, cara mia. I’m fine." Charles chuckled after I flinched again, gently slapping my cheeks to stay awake.
"No! I’m not sleeping when you have to drive! I’m awake!" I mumbled and yawned.
"Driving from Maranello to Ludwigsburg and then all the way back to Monaco really isn’t the best of ideas."
"You did it couple of times before."
"I know. And it was always when I had decided spontaneously to come. I wouldn’t plan it intentionally."
"Me neither."
I connected my phone to the car and Charles groaned a little.
"I want to stay awake and for that I need to sing… so come on, let your inner Swiftie out."
"There is no inner Swiftie."
"Oh please."
The next 2 hours were filled with me singing along to Taylor Swift and Charles driving, with a content smile on his face.
"You know what? I have an inner Swiftie in me, but only for you singing the songs."
"Oh come on."
"No I’m serious, I’ve told you this before and you never believe me. But I really love hearing you sing, anything, not just Taylor Swift."
"Charles, it’s sweet of you, but yeah no, I’m not a good singer."
"Let’s agree that we disagree on that one."
"Whatever." I looked outside, the sun beginning to rise around us "If you need to switch, I could drive for a bit?"
"I’m fine, but thank you."
"Do we have anything planned for today or tomorrow?"
"Nope. Relax, a little work outs here and there. And on Thursday we’re driving to Le Castellet."
"Alrighty. Two days doing nothing? Sounds too good to be true."
"We could take the boat tomorrow? One last little cruise."
"What do you mean?"
"What?"
"You said one last cruise?"
"I did?"
"Don’t try to play it down! What do you mean? Did you sell Monza?"
"Okay, this was supposed to be a surprise… I sold it, wait, and bought a new one. A bigger one… I called it Sedici and it’s currently being customised, it should be done by the end of this month…"
"Wait! When we just out of fun looked through the different interior designs of yachts and you asked about my opinion, that was not just out of fun, was it?"
"I might took in some of your ideas… and by that I mean most of your ideas…"
"Charles! Why a bigger one? Wait? How much bigger?"
"Just a little… and I thought that we could all hang out more together on the water… especially during the summer break…"
"Has this something to do with your mysterious plans for the summer break you’re not telling me about?"
"Maybe."
"Okay, keep your secrets. But yeah. We could take the boat tomorrow, have a little day out on the water, it’s been a while."
"Perfect."
"Hi Lizzie, yesterday in FP1 you had some problems to get the car in the right set up, in FP2 you couldn’t drive. Now P7 in qualifying. Not too bad after the problems you had?" Karun Chandhok from SkyUK asked.
"Yeah FP1 was just not it, im the car felt stiff and oversteery, so yeah it was tough and then we had the issues with our electric in FP2. And yeah FP3 wasn’t much better. But yeah P7 is okay. I can manage I guess."
"What do you think is possible tomorrow?"
"The track is not really suitable for our car, on paper at least, so yeah, we’ll see. But P7 is a good position, to maybe make up one or two positions."
"Carlos will start in P5 in front of you tomorrow, have you guys talked about last weekend? Will we see a fair battle?"
"We haven’t talked, for me there is nothing to say. I’m not here to make friends, I’m here to race, to win. I let my results speak for myself. And I will drive the same way I did last weekend.”
"Thank you Lizzie and good luck!"
"And that’s P6. Good race, little one" Pete radioed and I sighed.
"I tried."
"You did good."
"Valtteri?"
"P4."
"Awesome!"
I drove into the pit lane and parked my car behind Checo and got out of the car. I waited for Pierre and he pulled me into his side, walking towards the weighing.
"He’ll be a mess." Pierre said in hushed French and I nodded.
"I still don’t understand what happened? He lost the rear?"
"Yeah, let’s just hope it was the car…"
"And not his mistake? You’re right. He would be devastated…"
As I got my receipt I congratulated Max, Lewis and George.
"Hey Finnisher! Good race!" I hugged Valtteri and he patted my back.
"You too, little one! Thanks for opening up that door for me…" he chuckled a little and I rolled my eyes.
"Yeah we went both a little off there." I shrugged my shoulders.
We walked back into our garage and I passed an awaiting JK my helmet, taking my bottle from him.
"What happened?" I looked at him.
"It wasn’t your fault, I mean you two touched a few times over the course of the race, yeah more or less within the rules, but nothing major. Nothing big. He hit a kerb pretty hard and then had an issue with his floor, that’s why he had to retire. You weren’t involved."
"What? No, not Carlos. Charles?"
"Oh… umm he lost the rear."
"No shit Sherlock! How?"
"Driver error."
"Fuck! Did you see him?"
"Only for a moment. He’s okay…"
"No he’s not. Can you stall Julie for a bit? I just want to see him. Couple of minutes only."
"Stall her? Julie? Stall Julie? How? She’s a menace!"
"I don’t know, flirt with her?"
"She’s married. I have a girlfriend."
"Tell her… tell her I’m having a shit."
"Sure Lizzie Räikkönen!"
"I don’t care what you tell her, just- just stall her okay?
"I’ll try my best…"
"Thanks, you’re the best!"
"Go now!"
I sprinted away, behind the garages, until I was at Ferrari. I couldn’t just walk in obviously, like Charles could into the Audi garage, so I had to wait for someone to come out. One of the mechanics I knew noticed me an I waved him over.
"Hey Lizzie, how are you?" Mauro asked and I smiled my most charming smile.
"I’m good! I just wanted to check on Charles? Can you maybe get him for me?"
"Oh, yeah sure! I’ll go and have a look!"
"Thank you so much!" he smiled and left.
As I stood at the side I saw Carlos Sainz sr. leave the garage, looking at me.
"Hola Señor Sainz." I nodded at him and he gritted his teeth slightly.
"Doetterer." he replied and walked off.
"Nice to see you too." I chuckled a little and looked back into the garage, where Mauro was talking to my favourite red head, who shook her head, walking straight to me.
"Lizzie." Sylvia said, awfully sweet.
"Sylvia." I replied, even sweeter.
"Charles can’t come. We have our debrief now, since both our drivers had to retire, we start a little earlier. You can see him later." her words were final and she left.
"And also nice to see you too." I sighed and walked back to my garage as a mad looking Julie already waited for me.
"Did you see your lover boy? Can we go now?" she chided and I nodded.
"I haven’t seen my lover boy, but yes we can go, my lovely Julie!" I smiled and she grabbed my arm.
"Come on now, and Lizzie? Please! Don’t be petty, or happy or malicious about Carlos' DNF, okay?" she urged me and I nodded.
"Got it."
"Tough race? Some hard battles there with Carlos? Just like yesterday in the Sprint race?"
"Yeah, we raced hard but fair. Touched here and there, but still all within the regulations. It was a fun battle."
"You were able to put some distance between Carlos before you had a little lock-up?"
"Yeah, that was my mistake. I was a little too greedy I guess. He came close again and we had another intense battle."
"But then Carlos went off. Without your input."
"Yeah I didn’t see him going off, he was gone and my race engineer told me then that he’s out."
"Overall a good weekend for you? Yesterday P4. Today P6. You said as long as you’re in front of car 55 it’s a win for you."
"I shouldn’t have said that in the first place, but yeah. Like I said, I let my results speak for myself."
"Any final words after this weekend?"
"I always was a huge fan of karma…" I had to. I couldn’t hold back. With a big smile I left, Julie next to me just shaking her head.
"I hate you." was all she said and I laughed.
"You love me."
As I walked out, I saw Charles leaning against his Pista, eyes hidden behind his Ray Bans, head hung low.
"Hey…" I said and he looked up.
"You ready to go?" he asked, his voice hoarse.
"Yup." I answered and he opened the door for me "Thanks." he smiled faintly, closed the door and walked around the car.
As he got in, he started the engine and drove off of the parking lot, where loads of fans were gathered. Security holding them back, only on the right side the fans could approach the car and as they were all screaming for Charles, he sighed. I opened the window and the screaming got louder, I looked for a sharpie in my bag, grabbed some of the things they were shoving at us and handed them Charles to sign.
"We love you, Charles!"
"You’ll come back stronger!"
"Daghe Charles!"
"We believe in you!"
Nothing of it changed Charles emotionless face, he just signed the stuff and handed it to me, some fans were asking for my signature as well and I happily obliged to them. After 5 minutes the security guys waved at us and Charles nodded, he leaned a bit over and thanked the fans, I waved them goodbye, then he drove off.
The first 30 minutes we sat in silence. Charles right hand on the steering wheel, left arm on the window frame. I sighed and closed my eyes.
"Okay, let’s talk about it…" I began, but he shook his head.
"I’d rather not." he said and I looked at him.
"Yeah well, you don’t always get what you want. So, what happened?" I said and Charles gripped the steering wheel with both hands tight "We have more than an hour to drive left and I don’t want this to be a monologue! So? Tell me, what happened?”
"I lost the rear, haven’t you seen it? I pushed too hard, wanted too much, lost the rear and the championship, all because I am stupid…" he said and I waited for more, but Charles stayed silent.
"Okay, so you wanted to win so badly, that you gave it your all, pushed the car too much and then lost the rear?" I asked and Charles groaned but nodded "Okay."
"Okay? That’s all you have to say? Okay?" he asked and looked at me for a second.
"What else do you want me to say?" I looked at him.
"You could say that I’m stupid, that I keep making mistake, after mistake, that I will never be a world champion because I’m not consistent enough, you could say that I’m just not good enough for Formula 1…" he begann but I scoffed "What?"
"No, go on, I’m sure you have a lot of other very nice things to say about yourself…" I looked out the window and we kept on driving in silence, the sky turning darker with every Kilometer that we got closer to Monaco.
"I’m just making too many mistakes, I can’t handle the pressure, Max doesn’t make mistakes like this, he’s consistent…" Charles said after a while.
"Charles, that’s not…" I began but he shook his head.
"No, Lizzie, it’s true, Max doesn’t make mistakes, he…" Charles began.
"But you’re not fucking Max Verstappen! You’re Charles Leclerc, who made a mistake today, a mistake that costed you a lot, but it did not cost you the championship! Goddamnit, Charles! Yes, today was your mistake. 100%. But you own up to it! You know you made a mistake. But the reason why you make these mistakes are not because you’re not good enough, or not consistent enough, or that you can’t handle the pressure. The reason you keep making these mistakes is that for some strange reason you still think that you have to prove yourself, you still think you have to show that you truly deserve your seat and that your good enough and that you think you have to be better to make your dad and Jules proud, and that lack of confidence in your abilities, paired with the insecurities you’re team is giving you by fucking you over every other race… yeah well, we saw what happened." I said and Charles didn’t reply, he just kept driving "You know what is good though? This is something you can change, something you can work on."
"And how? How do I stop making these mistakes?" he asked.
"Really simple, stop thinking too much about all this bullshit. Drive. Focus on what you’re best at. Believe in yourself. Push yourself to the limit but not above. Drive with the passion that brought you here all those years ago. Don’t do it for anyone else but yourself! And for fucks sake, Charles, start to be confident in your own abilities!" I said and he smiled a little. He reached his hand out and laid it on my thigh, gently rubbing it.
"Maybe you’re right, but still. Today was just… god I was so close…" he sighed.
"Oh pretty boy, the season is not over yet!" I smiled.
As we parked the car Charles switched the engine off and looked at me for a moment.
"God, I love you so much!" he said and launched at me, kissing me fiercely, igniting a fire running through my veins.
"Come on now, pretty boy. I’m hungry and tired!" I unbuckled my seat and Charles was already out of the car, opening the door for me, holding out his hand to help me out.
"And they say chivalry is dead."
"Not when it comes to you, mon amour."
Little Note:
Chapter 21 - there’s a rivalry blossoming 😬 (no hate towards Carlos, he just really makes a great antagonist).
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Milk & Honey - Ch. 21 (Part 1)
Austin!Elvis x Black!OC
Masterlist
Previous | Next
Summary: Elvis invites Honey to his 68 Special
Warning: Elvis being a FLIRT, sexual tension, swearing, Bobby Kennedy
Note: From here on out swearing and sexual topics are going to pick up cause Honey and Elvis got grown, confident, and been through too much shit
Song: Heartbreak Hotel, Jailhouse Rock, & Let Yourself Go - Elvis Presley
Playlist
-
Charles takes the small hotel bar of soap, lathering it in his hands, before patting the suds over the bottom half of his face. “Comb me.”
I sigh, reaching over my side of the sink to grab his comb. He takes it with a concentrated face, dragging it down his cheek to practice ‘shaving’ the suds off. I roll my eyes with a big smile, watching him in the corner of my eye while I continue applying eyeliner.
“Well, aren’t you two adorable.”
I jump, smearing black down my cheek. I pout angrily, before turning to the man in the doorway. “How the hell did you get in here?”
While still shaving off soap in the mirror, Charles says, “I let him in while you were on the toilet for the past 20 minutes.”
I swear this boy’s gonna get it one day.
“You are not supposed to be answering the door by yourself. It could be strangers." I say, trying desperately to change the subject.
He scoffs, splashing his face with water. “It’s just Dad, Ma.”
Aww. He called him Dad. At least things with Charles are going easily, now I just have this asshole to deal with.
Elvis looks down at the ground, poorly trying to hide his laughter. “I told you I was bringing you to my special today.” He looks up to smirk at me.
I grab a towel to scrub off the eyeliner from my face. “Yeah, I know. I just didn’t realize how much time passed.” I groan at my appearance in the mirror. The eyeliner would have to do. At least my hair looks okay. After many years of use, I finally put the hot comb to rest and let my hair do what it does naturally. Then many more years after giving up my ways, I finally learned how to get it perfectly coiled and bouncy. Though, I admit I may have paid a little extra attention to it today. Did I do it on purpose? Maybe. For what reasons? I’ll never tell.
“You look beautiful.”
I spin around to Elvis, eyes wide, before matching his soft smile. “Thank you.” So are you.
Dammit, Honey, quit thinking like that! I clear my throat. “Alright, Charles. Let’s head out now.”
We pile in the same fancy car from yesterday. Elvis breathes in deeply, playing with his shirt and tapping his foot. At a first glance, he appears calm and collected, his bold stare aimed at the window to take in its serene views, but his giveaways are showing; something’s bothering him.
He notices me watching him and chuckles. “Last time I sang in front of an audience, you were in the crowd.”
And what a performance it was.
I hum. “Me too.” I glance over at Charles. He’s staring out the window in awe at every little thing we pass by. Poor thing was raised in such a ghetto, that a grass lawn amazed him. Once I’m positive he’s too occupied to listen, I turn back to Elvis. “So, what did Marcella say?”
He stares at me for a moment, before looking down, pretending to adjust his belt. He remains in silence.
I drop my jaw in disbelief. “Elvis!”
He curses under his breath. “I got caught up talkin with these guys about the special last night. It slipped my mind.”
I cross my arms with a sneer, “Your child ‘slipped’ your mind.”
He points a warning finger at me. “Now don’t go twistin my words, Honey.”
I drop my head back against the seat in frustration. “What are you planning to say to her? Isn’t she going to be here today?”
He shrugs. “I’ll explain everything to her when we go in. She’s a very understanding person.”
I groan. “Understanding or not, she’s your wife, she deserved to know three days ago.” He is so unbelievable. One can only be so understanding and this is one of those situations where it should NOT be tested.
We pull up to the building way too quickly. Sonny parks the car in the back, then jumps out to open my door and help me out. My heart speeds when I see the entrance. I can’t believe he hasn’t told his own wife yet!
I take a deep breath, following Elvis inside, making sure to stay very far behind. He turns around to eye me in confusion , but if I can avoid being associated with him for as long as possible, I’d like to.
Then, she comes into view.
She looks just like she did on the news. “You’re here!” She exclaims, jumping into his arms to…kiss…him. I look between them and their color coordinated outfits in disgust. Please, I’ve already seen enough.
“‘Cella, baby. I got something I need to tell you.”
Then she sees me. Elvis turns, holding his arm out to gesture over to Charles and I. “‘Cella, this is Honey. She’s, uh- an old friend of mine.”
I would wave or do something to greet her, but honestly, I’m too scared to. I feel incredibly out of place, so I keep my distance, deciding it’d be best to leave the talking to him.
She looks down, clearly seeing Charles standing shyly behind me. Her face drops instantly. She knows. “Old friend, huh?” She whispers, hoping I won’t hear.
He scratches the back of his neck. “Um, the little one’s name is Charles…He’s my son.” She takes a long breath in, swallowing hard as if she was going to be sick. “I brought them here so we can all get to know each other. As a family. Is that alright, Marcella?”
She fidgets with her fingers, nodding frantically. “Yeah- Yeah, that’s more than alright. I mean, he is your son. I can’t be upset about your past, especially when it brings someone as precious as him. Of course it’s okay.”
I take note that she only mentions Charles and says nothing about me, but I’ll store that away for later.
Elvis turns around, tilting his head to gesture me over. I reluctantly walk towards him, Charles' hand in mine. “Hi, I’m Honey.” I nervously greet her.
She smiles, before pulling me into a big hug. My eyes widen, as I debate if I should hug her back or not. I give her a small pat on her arm, terrified to do much else. She pulls away with a happy sigh. “Honey, it’s nice to meet you. I’m Marcella. I can’t wait to get to know you and Charles better!” She exclaims excitedly, waving to Charles, before turning back to Elvis to give him a kiss on the cheek. “Steve wanted a word with you before you go out there.” She says, waving for us to follow her.
This girl crazy.
I stare at Elvis for help, doubtful of the situation I’ve found myself in, but he only smirks, walking into the room with his wife. I know in his head he’s thinking about how understanding she is just like he told me, but she ain’t fooling me. She’s a good actor though, I’ll give her that, but I guess we’ll see when her true feelings about us begin to show.
I groan, already wishing I was back at the hotel, then follow through the door behind them. One side of the room is lined with TV screens and windows, all with a view of the stage down below. The cameras all point to a red platform in the middle of the room, surrounded with impatiently waiting fans.
“Hey, who is this?” A man sitting next to Jerry at one of the desks asks, staring at me confused.
“Steve, this is an old friend of mine, Honey.” Steve looks at me doubtfully. “She’s the woman that threw me in jail back in ‘58.”
I gasp, nudging him. “I did not!”
He puts his arm around my shoulder, pulling me into his chest. “Nah, I’m just foolin ya, bab-” He clears his throat, quickly removing his arm from me to adjust his shirt.
Steve smirks at me with an eyebrow raised. “Old friend, huh?”
Why’s everyone saying that??
“-Here Comes Santa Claus, and that Little Drummer Boy, all of the classics, don’t you worry.”
My stomach twists. It’s him. I could recognize that voice anywhere.
I spin around to see The Colonel in the doorway. His face takes on a vicious form upon seeing me, instantaneously threatening me with a pointed finger. “You. I remember you. I thought I told you to stay far away from this man.” He hisses.
Elvis steps in front of me, putting up a hand in front of his manager's. “Hey, don’t ever talk to her like that. She’s here to stay now.”
“She is?”
“I am?”
Marcella and I say simultaneously.
Elvis runs his hands through his hair while he looks back at his wife. “It’s just- This whole program is to help me find my way back home. She helps me get to that place. She’s gonna help me find my way home again.” He turns to smile affectionately at me, completely oblivious to the sheer disappointment in Marcella’s eyes.
Colonel scoffs. “Well, if by home, you mean the North Pole, then we’re in business. Yay, it’s Christmas!” He claps, nervously eyeing the men in suits behind him, who stare back at him with dubious eyes. He gives one warning look to Elvis, before guiding the men to their seats.
Steve rolls his eyes. “Alright, E.P., head to the dressing rooms. We’re on in 20.”
Elvis nods and takes his leave, Marcella following close behind him. Once they exit, everyone in the room takes a long look at me before turning back to their work, everyone except Jerry, who just stares at me behind his sunglasses. He tilts his head over to the exit, standing up to walk out of the door. I take this as he wants me to follow, and walk to stand out in the hallway with him. Charles boredly eyes posters along the wall, while we talk.
Jerry leans back against a wall, removing his sunglasses to tuck them between the highest button clasped on his shirt. He clears his throat. “So, what’s your deal?”
I nervously play with my sleeves, unsure what type of answer he’s looking for. I wasn’t expecting an interview today, but I’m not surprised that his new family is suspicious of me. “What do you mean?” I question.
He points down the hall towards the dressing rooms. “I’ve seen that man with girl after girl.” Gee thank you, Jerry. “Something's different with you. I mean, obviously there was something between you two.” He scoffs, looking over at Charles. “But, what’s the story?”
I shrug. “Known each other a long time, I guess.”
He hums. “Long lost lovers?”
“Somethin’ like that.”
“Marcella know?”
“Somethin’ like that…” I awkwardly tug on my clothes.
He sighs, crossing his arms. “Look, no disrespect, but…is E.P. actually his dad? Because if you’re just trying to get money, I hate to break it to you, but we’re pathetically low.” He scoffs out the last part, dry but honest.
I throw my arms down to my sides in frustration. “Jerry, look at him! That’s Elvis’ baby!” We both look down the hallway at Charles who is now dancing to the absolute silence that was playing, his blonde hair bouncing at his every jump.
Jerry smirks, shaking his head at the scene. Seems I’ve managed to convince him with just that. “So why’d you break?” He asks.
“It ain’t obvious enough?” I scoff. “Folk didn’t exactly take kindly to us in the 50’s, if you can believe that. Amongst…other reasons.” I say, side eyeing Colonel through the window of the previous room. He follows my gaze, nodding once he lands on him. “Did Elvis never mention me…? We were in the news and everything.” I ask, confused.
He shrugs. “Colonel does a good job covering what he doesn’t want seen. And E.P. can be a tough nut to crack sometimes.”
“I have no doubt.” I scoff, looking away to peer down the hallway.
Just then, a parade of stomps swing around the corner. The first thing I see is a black boot step out and with it comes leather pants, clung offensively tight to a pair of legs. My breathing slows as my eyes scan from the floor up his body. He shakes his arms out, adapting to his jacket, also made of leather, before raising one of his ring cladded hands to tug the jacket firm against him. He keeps his chin high and walks with pure confidence. A smile pulls on his pink lips at something the man beside him says, his teeth flashing beneath his lopsided grin. Lord, he looks like lust with legs. He scans the hall until landing dangerously upon me, gunning me down until I have to tilt my head back just to match his gaze.
He hums out a chuckle. “Come on, Honey. I want you out there with me. I need a pretty face to look at while I’m on stage.” He commands deeply, pressing his hand into my lower back.
Is he-? Is he flirting with me??
I swallow, skittishly looking for my son, waving him over to follow me. “You, uh, you look good, Elvis.” The compliment comes out wavering and nervous.
“I know.” He winks, flashing me that sin of a smirk.
Oh! What did I do to deserve this torture?
He keeps his head up, shoulders back, proud and determined, marching his way to the stage. Cheers and applause fill the room, overwhelming my body with excitement even if it wasn’t for me. Jerry takes me away from Elvis and escorts us to the side just behind the audience and right next to Marcella.
“Oh, I’m so proud of him.” She squeals quietly as Charles and I take our seats.
I’m sure you are.
Charles clings onto my arm tightly. I peek down at him to make sure he’s okay, but instead of finding a bored or anxious little boy, I find a bright smile on his face. He waits with bated breath to see his hero and now dad perform right before his eyes.
I sigh. I’m here for Charles to have a father. It doesn’t matter what bullshit I have to go through, it’s for Charles.
I close my eyes, repeating those words in my head over and over.
It’s all for Charles.
‘Well, since my baby left me’
Lord have mercy.
‘Well, I found a new place to dwell
Well, it’s down at the end of Lonely Street
At Heartbreak Hotel’
It feels like I’m seeing him for the first time all over again. It’d been so long since I had last seen him perform, I nearly forgot how powerful he is. God, what a man.
‘Where I’ll be
I’ll be so lonely, baby
I’ll be so lonely
I’ll be so lonely I could die’
My mind flashes with memories of his Trouble performance. The passion, the rawness, the dirtiness, the campagne. Is it weird I’m envious of myself right now? He has that same danger in his eyes, that same thrill in his lust.
He throws himself around on the stage earning screams and squeals from the girls in the front rows.
His voice, his stare, his hips, that smirk. Oh, I should be in church with the feelings I was having.
‘They were dancing
Well, they were dancing
To the jailhouse rock’
Those feelings never went away. All those years of pushing away thoughts of him, hiding the love I felt in my heart were all very present and starving for his attention.
He runs a hand through his black hair, smoothing it while catching his breath. “It’s been a long time, baby.” He says into the mic, before making direct eye contact with me. “A long time.”
A sharp breath hitches in my chest. I was under his spell again.
Eventually the crowd clears out, making room for a new set to be laid out.
“That was great, baby!” Marcella jumps in his arms, greeting him with a kiss the second we meet up with him again backstage.
“Thank you, baby.” He smiles down at her.
Absolute torture.
“E.P. we have a problem.” Steve jogs up to us, papers in hand. “One of the dancers called in sick. We need a girl to fill in as a replacement.” He smiles guiltily. “Marcella?”
She puts her hands up, shaking them. “Oh, I’m no performer. I couldn’t.” She laughs awkwardly.
Steve bites his lips together, glancing at me from the side. “Honey?” He asks hesitantly, but hopeful.
Elvis scoffs. “Honey can’t dance. She’s too old now.” He teases playfully with a smile.
I know he didn’t.
I cross my arms, protecting my dignity from him with a huff. “I’ll do it.”
Steve lets out a breath of relief, before reaching for my hand. “Good, come on. I gotta have the other girls teach you the steps as quickly as possible.”
I follow him, glancing pridefully over my shoulder. Elvis’ smile disappears from his face, replaced with a look of discomfort while Marcella tugs on his arm for his attention. Serves him right.
I spend the next 20 minutes learning the dance moves. They try teaching me how to look as though I was being seduced by Elvis for the performance, but trust me, I didn’t need lessons to do that.
Once I perform sufficely, Steve sends me back to the dressing rooms with my costume, but he doesn’t say exactly which room to go in. I stand in the center of a hallway of doors, each one equally as generic and unspecified as the next.
They need me out there quick, I don’t have time for this.
I pick the first door I see, bursting through, only to see Elvis smoothing out his new outfit, a nice blue suit. I stand frozen as the door shuts behind me.
He whips around to face me, a grn forming on his face when he recognizes it’s me. “Well. How’s my little dancer?”
I roll my eyes, shoulders dropping in comfort. “Panicking”
He walks over to pick at the little gold bits that hang off the clothing items in my arms. “They want you in this here little number?” He pries with an eyebrow raised.
I sigh. “I know. I don’t know what it is, but I know it’s not a lot and I don’t exactly have the body I used to.” I, by all means, don’t think my body is horrible, but I’d be lying if I said it was back to what it was before having Charles.
He shakes his head. “A lil weight never hurt nobody. I definitely can’t say much right now.” He says, patting on his belly. “‘Sides, I always thought you looked cute when you’re all soft and plump. That lil weight suits you well, mama.” He winks, walking back over to his vanity.
Okay, that’s gotta be flirting.
I clear my throat, unsure how to respond, but a smile creeps onto my face no less. He still thinks I’m cute. I quickly shake my head. No time for this right now. I look around the room, searching for something to hide behind. “Um, do I just change in here? They need me out there soon.”
He raises a brow over his shoulder. “Yeah, go ahead.” He faces the vanity, playing around with some sort of product on it. Who is he fooling? He’s standing in front of a mirror. I ain’t changing right here.
I put my hands on my hips and, like I suspect, not even 3 seconds go by before I see him sneak a peek in the mirror. He smirks knowing that he got caught but looks back down pretending it didn’t happen. “Go ahead. I ain’t lookin.”
“Mhm.” I huff, turning around to remove my shirt. Hopefully, no one walks in on us. I slip on the garments, quickly learning that it is in fact not a whole lot of clothes. I shift uncomfortably in the tight pink bra, before smoothing out the matching short skirt. I turn around, finding Elvis leaning his back against the vanity, his entire body fully facing me.
I put my hands on my hips. “How long were you watching me?”
His eyes widen, meeting my face finally. “Watchin? I wasn’t watchin. I just turned around.” He lies poorly.
I groan, walking over to the vanity. I take a look in the mirror, noticing just how small and tight the outfit is. I’ve never in my life worn something this revealing. I try and pull the skirt down to cover myself as much as possible, but it does very little. “Please don’t let my son see me like this.”
He chuckles, patting my arm just as there’s a knock on the door. A woman peers in, her eyes landing on me. “There you are. We need you in makeup right away.”
“Give’er the works. She needs it. Lookin deader than an armadillo on the side of the road.” Elvis teases.
“Oh! You-” I hit on the arm, watching him grab it in pain, but still continuing the laugh. The woman giggles, exiting back into the hallway.
Elvis puts his arm around me. “You know I don’t mean it. You’re still my little Mississippi queen.” I shake my head in annoyance, before releasing myself from his hold to walk towards the door. “Well maybe not so little no more.” I gasp, but before I have time to be offended or even turn around to scold him I feel a slap on my ass.
I freeze, spinning on my toes to face him. “Did you just-”
He remains still, eyeing me over. “Reachin for something, my bad.” He lies with an evil smirk plastered on his lips.
I stay frozen in my spot, still processing what just happened. He chuckles, pushing me towards the door. “Come on. They need us out there.”
After sitting in a chair, getting my face with colors and my hair big and fluffy, not that it needed much help to get there anyway, I find myself on stage, contemplating my every life decision.
“Steve?” I call.
“Yes?”
“This outfits cute and all, but why am I dressed like this?”
“It’s a part of the whore house skit.” He answer nonchalantly, exiting the stage to go upstairs to the control room.
Damn. I know I had a baby with the guy, but the names are a little uncalled for.
Five minutes before shooting, Elvis finally enters the stage, cheerful and thrilled like he didn’t just slap my ass minutes prior, or, sorry, I guess he was reaching for something. I can’t believe him. Everything he’s done and said today has left me entirely flabbergasted.
I take a deep breath, remembering I’m about to be recorded. MaybeI shouldn’t have agreed to this. I have to perform in front of all these people, in front of him! People across the country are going to watch this. Lord, all those girls back at the church are going to see me in this, I’ll never have a job again.
“As much as I love seein you bounce all over the place, I remember you always did that when you were nervous. What’s goin on, darlin?” Elvis cuts me from my thoughts, placing a hand on my shoulder to stabilize me.
Bouncing? Was I bouncing? “Sorry, I just ain’t been in the public eye for some time.”
“Don’t apologize. You’re cute when you're nervous.” He says deeply, in a whisper.
There he goes. “You’re flirting with me again.”
“I ain’t flirting with nobody. It’s who I am.”
“Places everyone!”
The music begins, the girls and I swaying in our spots before stalking towards Elvis who enters the scene. He comes in smiling, admiring each of us. Two girls pull a chair to the middle of the room, setting it behind Elvis. I twirl my hips, extending my hand to push him down into the chair.
Each of the girls take their turn throwing themselves at him, before he stands up, backing me into a corner for the last lines of the song.
“Take a deep breath and put your warm red lip on mine
Just do like I tell you, everything’s gonna be just fine”
He spins me around, dipping me, grabbing onto me, pressing himself against me as he sings in my ear.
“Kiss me nice and easy, take your time
Baby I’m the only one here in line”
He grabs my neck, forcing me to look into his lust filled eyes. He brings our faces so close our noses bump. I’m told to pretend to look madly in love with him, as if I’m under a trance just by his gaze, but it would take one powerful woman to have to ‘pretend’.
“All you gotta do it just let yourself go”
I grin, ghosting my fingertips down his cheek. Our lips are only centimeters away from each other, I could practically taste him.
Then, a whistle is blown. “Cut!”
The girls whoop, walking off stage, but I can’t bring myself to leave Elvis' side. My beating heart missed being looked at by him like this. I'd do anything to have just another second under his touch. And Lord, I want those lips on mine again.
Just then a scream erupts from backstage.
“Bobby Kennedy’s been shot!”
.
.
.
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That "Charles is dating a rich Monaco girl for money and status" is the exact same thing people said about Charlotte and it wasn't true.
To me their relationship seems like a mix of things.
A hookup that got leaked, he made her his gf before he got the fuckboy title. The people who originally found out about her (not the Turkish twitter acc) claimed they saw she was followed by both Charles and Charlotte and decided to follow her and then noticed she was in Charles priv account (the priv account that was created a week before, which means they had to know his priv account existed, know it's name and just so happened to pick the correct girl to follow. The odds of that is almost zero)
Charles being single is more likely to be sexually harassed by weirdos, a gf is like a freak deterrent, for example literally a week after he made his breakup with Charlotte public some girl tried to invade his personal space and she literally bragged on twitter about touching his stomach under his shirt. It's very common for celebs to publicly date friends and co workers because it's just more likely to stop weirdos from thinking they can touch/kiss you because you're single.
APM the brand that has been with Charles and Alex since day one originally had their romance collection for Valentine's day 2023 but mysterious scrapped it October 2022 which wouldn't be weird if it wasn't for the fact that so many people noticed Charles and Charlotte acting very off during that time, people saw her in Monaco with tons of boxes, she posted a bunch in Charles' place everytime the rumour would pop up but everyone knew it was old because Charles had spoken about changing the painting she was stood in front of.
APM again for another reason. They got the exclusive of Charles not being single, Alex was photographed in the APM area amongst the APM guests at the Monaco GP, people saw that she tried to hide her secondary paddock pass because it's not the driver special ones but a brand one (for example Charlotte, Isa, Lily M, Kelly, Carmen, Egle, Louisa etc would have green lanyards and Alex's would have been white as she wasn't a team/driver guest but a VIP brand guest) then there's the whole thing of Charles posting the Malachite collection as promo for their new location opening and literally everyone predicted her wearing the exact same things he was wearing and she did and made sure to get paddock pics of her showing them off, her style pages have got multiple DMS of her saying her jewelry is APM but it's not even visible in pictures, nobody knew she was even wearing earrings let alone them being APM. APM followed her account before following multiple of the celebs they also invited, most of which are actually features in their website and social media.
Sorry I will never thing they're a genuine legitimate couple because of how predictable they have been and still are and how genuinely fucking miserable and weird Charles is when she's around. He's fine and the exact same around everyone else so it's not a him issue.
For example since the New Year he's had the routine of being seen doing things in Monaco, then there's pics of him parked outside the hotel with Alex either getting in or out, they then get filmed driving to the main valet parking, they go shopping(they never buy anything) for an hour then he's seen driving off and she's not seen again but he's seen later in a complete different outfit because he's jogging. It happened multiple times then the second people pointed it out, the pattern rotated and he was seen running errands alone or with someone else all day, then he was seen in workout gear and suddenly she's jogging with him eventhough he's seen often jogging and she's not once been with him (sidenote he's also only wearing headphones/airpods when jogging with her, there's hundreds of videos over 5 years where he's not once listening to music unless he's alone. Clearly he doesn't want to talk to her)
Very good analysis bestie.
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Hey, something has been bugging me, and im wondering what the pr perspective is. What on earth is the pr strategy for most of the teams when they decided to publicly state that they hate the idea of Andretti joining? It just comes off as whinning to me
Hey anon, thanks for the question!
What you are seeing here has a lot to do with how teams use or attempt to use their PR positioning. This is also a major example of why PR is so important, which is that you can leverage it for things that go beyond brand image and go into the very nature of profit in sports. I will briefly touch on the PR of F1 for context and then talk about why teams may be behaving this way.
F1 PR
When it comes to F1 there is one thing that is paramount to understanding its business model, which is how exclusive it is, Even if they accept the Andretti bid that is part of the appeal. F1 sells itself as exclusive and luxurious.
Where other motorsports are also expensive and highly exclusive, they may present themselves as somewhat rough and tumble, with a lot of emphasis on ideas of grit and being "hardcore" so to speak. You see it a lot when fans of one motorsport weigh in on which motorsport is the best one in terms of skill and the likes by weighing in on racecraft related skills like endurance, frequency of collision and strategy. The other thing to understand is the luxury aspect and the monetary value of that.
I touched on the association with certain groups on the Charles essay, what with the Monaco GP, and things like high profile guests etc come into it, but another element of that is that luxury in sports also is the means through which teams justify the high price tag to participate in the sport as a fan.
You can also see this in things like the culture around attending Wimbledon (a similar feel to the Monaco GP) or Equestrian Dressage and so on. And whilst generally sports merchandise is expernsive regardless of the sport, and the fans that frequent these sporting events live are not the average fan (hence the importance of things like viewership and social media engagement which are less cost prohibitive than for example going to a La Liga final or the Superbowl in person and has not just merch and tickets, but food, hotels, transport and so on but that is another essay entirely). F1 is a whole other ball park of that.
F1 sells that its luxury and exclusivity is a necessity. If you look at most sports, a big part of sports journalism is about growing the game, even ones considered to be the domain of the rich like tennis. And when teams sell to audiences they are selling their merchandise, yes, but they are also selling the rare opportunity, perhaps the only one to invest in being a participant.
F1 tracks are predominantly in the middle of nowhere and are already logistically difficult to go to, there is emphasis on the heritage of the sport and most of the sponsors outside of gambling companies are also for people who make a lot of money.
Think about the response to a potential Porsche-RBR team versus RBR-Ford, or about the Mercedes team uniform and merch being Tommy Hilfiger. The luxury and prstige with a high price point is part and parcel of how F1 makes its money.
If you participate in the sport outside of social media and TV, the cheapest parts of participation (like a standard issue team cap or a lanyard) are pricier even compared to other motorsports like NASCAR. I remember last year the special pride collection from NASCAR was cheaper than any standard issue F1 merch. And this is actually where (at least I think haha) Andretti comes in.
The Andretti Animosity
Andretti comes from the American (although American motorsports is extremely popular outside the US but once again, another essay) cultural understanding of motorsports which is more laid back, more easily accessible and is understood to be cost prohibitive but not to fans. American motorsports have a host of accessibility issues both in person and through things like TV, and like most sports the fans that can afford to attend are the minority, the kind of pricing around F1 for fans would be considered to be outrageous.
Yes in those spaces F1 is also seen as this high price point product, but if IndyCar for example were to sell at the price point of F1 it wouldn't fly. For F1 with some of the cheaper tickets being (at least when I looked it up) 2000 USD when its expensive to spend 200 USD at IndyCar, the amount that F1 fans pay to attend is steep. And then F1 says, yes but there is only 20 drivers and 10 teams with some of the most expensive engineering in the world and therein lies the disgruntlement re 11th teams and the idea of how much dilution fees should be.
They likely are not refusing Andretti because they think its beneficial PR wise, they are trying to leverage the PR that they have because they perceive any 11th team as a threat to exorbitant pricing and sky high profits. They are also attempting to close the door on further pushes for more teams. As you may have seen people already brought up Haas and that is what they don't want, precedence to add more teams. So from a PR perspective how may you leverage that?
The main things to consider are as follows:
American audiences are viewed as desirable as a profitable group to sell F1 to
The prices and nature of access that American audiences associate with motorsports that they are already familiar with is far cheaper than F1
American audiences would likely invest more with a team that is not just American owned or driven, but feels culturally American
So you as a team see that there is money to be made, in an audience that does not need to be convinced that motorsports can be interesting, but these audiences are not satisfied by your arguments that they should be open to such high price points, their local taxpayers footing the bill to host F1 races, and an audience of non American fans that hold contempt (for both valid and invalid reasons) for anything that they consider "too American".
So, either you let a team, especially an American one like Andretti in, you tell American fans that you have someone truly American for them to root for. You know Andretti already, and now you can support him in the exclusive big leagues. It is more expensive than you are used to, but its a global stage, an exclusive one, imagine being able to support your team every weekend.
To you and me, that is a sweet deal, especially since the bid includes General Motors and the F1 factory being US based. And its so likely that the profits really go into overdrive as a result, and so the other teams don't lose a piece of the pie as the pie gets bigger. If you are familiar with american fan culture with teams then you already know this, but the sports merchandise industry is worth billions, its not loose change, if American fans invest in the sport the numbers are sky high.
But then again, a more Americanized F1 also means other exorbitant prices are pushed to come down, and they don't want fans, American or otherwise to expect to participate in the fandom of the sport, they want fans to pay the high price tag and not challenge it. These record profit and viewership years with a noted larger American audience involved them paying up, but as the entirety of motorsports experiences something of a renaissance, fans are less enthused about the price tag, and every continent (yes, every single continent) has other more viable motorsports options for fans.
Yes its not necessarily the same kind of glamor and prestige as F1, but a lot of what people love in one motorsports, can be found in another. And, with lockdowns gone in most places, audiences are not at home likely spending more, and so to them what went up, must come down. So what do F1 and F1 teams do instead? Try to spin PR in a way that persuades audiences that there is something remarkable that they are paying for.
Andretti brings more profit yes, but he also brings people who do not necessarily view F1 as this novel thing in the way that fans who came in 2020-2021 do. As a result, you may get them to pay a little more, but not thousands more, especially for what (based on the last COTA and Miami race fan experiences depict on social media) seems to them to be a mediocre at best fan experience. So now what you are seeing is an attempt to leverage PR to say that fans ARE paying for something, exclusivity and the best of the best. And its not just about convincing American fans either.
How often are European fans told that they are paying for the exclusivity, history and prestige of F1? How often do European fans speak of being priced out of F1? Sometimes this is attributed to the pursuit of American audiences by fans but thats a clever PR slight of hand which moves discussion away from why F1 is several times more expensive for fans than whatever their local motorsport competitions are, and instead tells them that they need to protect F1 and its exclusivity as fans from the sinister forces that will Americanize the sport, despite the fact that Americans are also priced out, and in the case of Las Vegas, have been negatively impacted by the presence of F1. Lets circle back to Andretti.
There are two things about Andretti that makes the attempt to leverage PR seem strange. Manufactures backing, and a motorsports experience. Incidentally, motorsport experience is part of how Haas found itself in the sport, but the manufacturing backer is a big one. Now there is a lot of money to be made if he gets in, potentially record profits, but how willing will people be to pay how much they have since at least 2022?
From a financial perspective, the prices were always going to need to come down and F1, Liberty Media and Teams should have prepared for that, alas, corporations tend to hope for exponential growth and now what we as audiences view as the logical move is like pulling teeth and there is talk of how high the dilution fee should be to compensate teams for loss in revenue. And that is where, from a PR perspective, I presume this is all coming from.
Teams kick about, talk of an 11th team as a sort of manifestation of this hidden threat to the sport, fans want proof that Andretti isn't going to ruin and Americanize the sport and apply more pressure on the sport to make sure F1 protects its roots, dilution fee is negotiated very high as a result and when its announced, fans debate if its too much or too little, Andretti pays up and expresses that he is happy to and tells the American audiences that want to support his team how it was so worth it to pay x money because F1 is worthy of it, fans that want to support Andretti/a culturally American team begrudgingly take his word for it and pay up for merch or GP tickets or whatever, European fans are assured that the sport will not be dictated by Americans and continue to support it, and then the exponential growth continues.
Of course the locals especially in places where the race track is not far from their homes, where they work etc, still are not happy, and for obvious reasons, residents tend to dislike it when taxpayers foot the bill for sporting events, safety issues and more, but based on the reporting around building the Las Vegas GP, and also what has occurred in the various places F1 has raced in over the years and even historically, how F1 impacts locals does not seem to be a priority in stakeholder analysis, but rather is an afterthought.
So yeah, as usual with F1 its really about the money, and what they think will maximize it. So they will keep up this PR song and dance about exclusivity and luxury as necessity, media will keep contextualizing how exclusive it is, everyone will mention how much Andretti and other interested people paid to go ober their bids because its so exclusive, and then Andretti with General Motors and Cadillac will pay up, parrot these same ideas about being in the most exclusive sport ever, and maybe even do interviews.
Then teams will either welcome them publicly for meeting the stringent standards of the sport and emphasizing how necessary the whole thing was, or ignore the entry to reinforce that they were only logically concerned, media will put out pieces about who Andretti is and maybe even F1 primers for new fans, American broadcasters will be talking about the new American team in the most exclusive sport whilst European broadcasters talk about how if the sport was going to have another team and how now American audiences can enjoy a team in the most exclusive sport, and then similiarly to Haas, people will for the most part stop debating. That is of course until someone says something, or a team leaves, or people or corporations want to come in.
On the flipside, if Andretti doesn't get in, teams will be like "we said that this is an expensive exclusive sport and not everyone can join", Audiences won't like that for the most part, because to most Andretti makes sense for F1 regardless of if you want Andretti specifically or not, and probably won't buy it, especially since audiences are already not very moved either way by Stefano Domenicalli speaking about F1, but it may very well alienate large portions of American (and also Non European in general) audiences especially if they like other motorports.
Already because of the nature of fandom in F1, other motorsports fans don't have a great impression of being engaged in the free ways like social media, so if you want them to now be paying fans be it for a cable package or merch or GP tickets, having a new team that is neither European own nor European funded is one of very few means to persuade people to want to participate in the fanfare of F1 regardless.
And for European fans it will be difficult to tell them that rejecting the Andretti bid is not strange, because for the most part, he doesn't have the PR image of someone who would rock the boat too much in F1, and the fact that his teams do well in other motorsports also creates interest as it is not a given that he will be a back marker.
But ultimately, regardless of what happens from here on out, most teams are publicly against it because of money, and they are hoping that the PR built up so far can be leveraged to defend how the money is made, and also ensures that should they negotiate with Andretti re dilution fee, it will not look good if he or the manufacturers he is teaming with publicly state that they think its too high. You will also probably have noted that drivers don't tend to strongly oppose a new team and tend to be in favor of a new team, or indifferent and that adds another dimension to the song and dance but once again, another essay, for another day.
Thanks for the ask, sorry its so long haha.
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Day One: First Meeting.
Young Reginald: Hey! You must be new here!
Young RHM: Yeah, I am... What's your name?
Young Reginald: I'm Reginald Copperbottom! Son of the right hand man of Terrence Suave, and you?
Young RHM: You can call me Rockie.
Young Reginald: Is that your name? Or-
Young RHM: No no, just call me Rockie please, my real name is not meant to be known.
Young Reginald: Well alright, let me show you around!
Young RHM: Well... That would be nice...
*Little Rupert was at the park with his parents until he notices some kids bullying another one*
Little Rupert: Oi! You guys! Leave him alone!
Bully #1: Or what? What are you gonna do hedgehog?
Bully #2: Haha! Hedgehog!
Bully #3: It's funny because he literally has hair like a hedgehog!
Little Rupert: If you don't stop then I'll tell my parents!
Bully #2: Ooh I'm so scared!
Bully #1: What a freak!
Little Rupert: That was the last straw! *Looks at his parents* Mommy! Daddy!
Rupert's mom: Rupert? What's wrong sweetie?
Rupert's dad: is everything alright champion?
Little Rupert: These kids are calling me a freak!
Rupert's dad: Is that true? *Looks at the kids with a cold expression*
Bully #1: Y-your dad is Mauricio Price??
Bully #3: T-the world's strongest police man??
Little Rupert: Yes he is!
Rupert's dad: Listen you three! If you don't leave my son alone by the count of three, I'll tell your parents about this.
The three bullies: A-alright!! Sorry sir!!
*the three bullies run away*
Little Rupert: Hah! That should teach them! *Looks at the kid that was being bullied* Are you okay?
Little Dave: Y-yeah, I'm good, thanks for defending me.
Little Rupert: No worries! I won't let them hurt you! But you also need to be brave and strong.
Little Dave: Y-yeah... I know...
Little Rupert: Don't worry I'll help you, besides my dad is the coolest police man in the entire city!
Little Dave: R-really? That sounds awesome.
Little Rupert: I know! By the way my name's Rupert, Rupert Price.
Little Dave: I'm Dave Panpa! Nice to meet you Rupert!
*This takes place after Henry helps Ellie*
Ellie: ... Thanks for helping me.
Henry: Hey there's no way I'm leaving you there to scum after you help me! It would be very selfish of my part.
Ellie: Yeah, it would be.
Henry: Also didn't get your name.
Ellie: I'm Ellie Rose, and you?
Henry: I'm Henry Stickmin Suave Randman, but you can call me Henry Stickmin for short.
Ellie: Suave Randman?? Your the son of the infamous Ex Toppat Leader Terrence Suave??
Henry: Well... Yeah, but my parents are no longer criminals, specially my dad Terrence, he's been living full of regret of his past leadership decisions.
Ellie: Yeah, that must be really bad for him.
Henry: And it was, but now he's a change man, and he doesn't want me to go through that same path.
Ellie: I get that.
Henry: Anyway, let's escape this complex together! I'm sure we'll be a great team!
Ellie: Heh, yes we will, now let's get going!
Charles: Hey there! Are you the new recruit Victoria Grit?
Victoria: Umn... Yeah, who are you?
Charles: I'm Charles Calvin! The general's son.
Victoria: T-the general's son?? W-well It's very nice to meet you!
Charles: Relax you don't need to be very formal, it's not that big deal, now follow me to the camp!
Victoria: U-uh... Alright... (💭 He's way more hotter than I thought!!)
Note: When Victoria was recently recruited she was very insecure about meeting others, but with the pass of time she open herself.
Burt: Hey you!
Sven: Me?
Burt: Yeah, mind if I ask where the chief's office is?
Sven: at the end of that hallway. *Points at the hallway*
Burt: Thanks uhh...
Sven: Sven Svensson newbie.
Burt: Thanks Sven... Also my name's Burt Curtis in case you didn't know.
Sven: Yeah I know, the boss told me about you when you were barely here.
Burt: O-oh... Sorry...
(Fun Fact: Burt was not always emotionless and anxious, he was once a very cheerful boy until he had an accident).
These prompts were made by @blue-fanlady
#the henry stickmin collection#henry stickmin collection#Thsc prompt#curtissonweek2023#roseminweek2023#gritvinweek2023#panpriceweek2023#copperrightweek2023#art#fanart#thsc art#thsc fanart
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The producers of NCIS are looking back at Mark Harmon’s exit from the CBS series.
Executive producer Charles Floyd Johnson told The Hollywood Reporter that he believed that Harmon’s 2021 departure would be a “death knell” for the procedural after he starred as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs nearly two decades.
“Coming in at 6:30 a.m., five days a week, and being the major character that was the linchpin — that’s pretty tough, and he did it for 18 seasons,” he said of Harmon, 72. “He had just gotten to the place where he was getting close to turning 70, and he wanted to spend time with [wife] Pam [Dawber] and his kids."
He continued: “So he was leading up to it. It started probably [with him dropping hints] around the 15th or 16th season. But he was so loyal to that crew and so supportive of the show. He was very proud of it, and he stayed on longer than he even intended.”
Director James Whitmore Jr. recalled wondering how the show would move forward without Harmon, telling the outlet, “When Harmon was talking about leaving, and there was this chance that he might not come back, I said, ‘How are they going to replace this dude?’ And they brought in the one guy that could do it, which was Gary Cole.”
Johnson admits the show “hit gold” when Cole joined NCIS in season 19 to play Special Agent Alden Park.
“There were a lot of names bandied about,” he recalled. “When everybody finally decided we’d make an offer to Gary Cole, we didn’t pitch it to him as, ‘He was going to become the new Gibbs.’ We pitched it to him that he was going to come in and wasn’t sure he was going to stay with the team, so that he didn’t have to feel like he was stepping into the shoes of someone who had been there for 18 seasons.”
Executive producer Mark Horowitz reflected on how the introduction of Cole’s character changed the dynamic of the show, explaining, “When Gibbs was in charge, he was the leader, and everybody was pretty much under him. When the Gary Cole character came in, it loosened up a little bit and allowed McGee (Sean Murray) to become a senior agent, and they have a little bit more authority. So it gave room for other possibilities.”
Back in August 2022, Harmon addressed saying goodbye to the procedural in the fourth episode of season 19 when his character Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs decided to stay in Alaska indefinitely after solving a case.
"What has always drawn me here is the character I play and to keep it fresh and to keep it challenging," Harmon said in a special featurette on the show's season 19 DVD release, per Entertainment Tonight. "Plot-wise, this character has taken the path that it did. I thought it was honest and OK with."
Harmon — who starred on the series since its premiere in 2003 — also shared that he believed that his beloved character is "not retired," adding, "The character is living in Alaska as far as I know."
Following the episode, executive producer Steve Binder opened up about Harmon's exit for the long-running series.
"As an executive producer and dear friend, Mark continues to be an integral part of the fabric of the show. Our north star has always been staying true to our characters, and that truth has always guided the stories we tell and where those characters go," he told PEOPLE in a statement. "So regarding the future of Gibbs, as long-time fans of the show may have noticed over the years…never count Leroy Jethro Gibbs out."
"Mark's always been part of the show, Mark's always going to be part of the show," CBS Entertainment President Kelly Kahl told Deadline in September 2021. "In terms of his on-air appearances, we're just going to have to see how it plays out going forward."
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thoughts on a lookism AU where everyone has chips implanted into their brains and they all live in a medical facility because they’re “special” and are forced to train their bodies to make it to the top fighter list? it’s like everyone is a caged animal, and if they go rabid the chip will shut them down immediately. Charles is probs behind it haha whatcha think? would you read/write anything like this??
Hmmm… I would def read and write about this. It sounds interesting to me and I find it very dystopian, if it’s only within the medical facility (It’s giving me Black Mirror vibes lol). With this whole scenario with the fighting for the Top Fighter List, what will happen if they DO NOT make it into the list? Will Charles Choi kill them? Or will he give them the lowest position possible? For example, a slave? And what would their reward BE if they do make it into the list? Will they earn a second body, like Daniel Park or James Lee? See, now you’re making me think of questions for this AU. Tbh I LOVE dark stories/novels. Literally, my fav genre in novels is psychological horror. Romance is nice and all, but for me, dark themes >>>> Also, it won’t be a surprise if I wrote something like this. I’ve been meaning to write a story revolving around Lookism that’s a little more unsettling, but now I finally got something. Currently, I’m writing a fic for a Lookism character thats WAY out of my usual demographic. It’s much darker, and more uhh… “disturbing”, for sure. (I have a lot of stories that I’m currently working on, and this is one of the stories I’m writing. It’s like a “special project” that I’m cooking up. You guys will love it, I swear.)
#also I apologize for my absence on here today#I’ve been writing since this morning so I can get this out of the way as fast as possible#I won’t be able to reply back to anyone for a bit am sorry 🙏🏽#this dark story that I’m working on got me obsessed lol#lookism#lookism webtoon#lookism manhwa#lookism thoughts#lookismaddict#lookismaddictq&a#anon ask#anon thoughts
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