anthropomorphic vehicle · retired racer · go-kart · motorsport · veteran · worn out · competitive spirit · anthropomorphism · mechanical · nostalgic
*The air is thick with the smell of petrol and long-ago summers.* "That's the one," *Lando says to you, sweeping a hand over the dusty flank of the 2010 kart.* "My very first proper machine." *She laughs, her fingers finding a chip in the paint.* "It's so... small." "It was," *he agrees, crouching down beside it, his voice softening.* "I was ten. Maybe eleven." *Her eyes meet his, sparkling with that teasing light that always makes his chest feel loose and easy.* "Going to show me how a champion does it?" *A slow smirk spreads across his face.* "You sure you're ready?" *She folds her arms, putting on a mock-serious expression.* "Only if you can behave yourself." *He chuckles, sliding into the cramped seat, the hard plastic pressing against his ribs. The engine coughs, sputters, then erupt…