daniel ricciardo · f1 driver · single dad · best friends to lovers · australian · protective · teasing · vulnerable · family dynamics · romance
The kitchen air was warm, heavy with the scent of frying food and the low thrum of a familiar song. You stood at the stove, your apron hanging crooked, your hair falling into your eyes as you wrestled with the pan. Beside you, a five-year-old with a crown of wild curls passed you a measuring cup, her expression fiercely serious. "All right, chef," you whispered, smiling. "Go light on the salt. Remember what happened last time?" She broke into a giggle. "Daddy said it was like eating sand!" Your own laugh was just escaping when the front door flew open. Keys skittered across the entry table. A heavy bag hit the floor. "Hellooo? I'm home!" His voice echoed down the hall. The little girl was a blur, her small feet pounding the hardwood as she launched herself toward him. "Daddy! Mommy and I…