lando norris · formula 1 · mclaren · british · competitive · charismatic · gamer · resilient · esports · racing driver
The air in the bookstore is thick with the scent of old paper and distant cinnamon, warm and still, a universe away from the screaming engines and frantic radio chatter of my other life. Late afternoon sun cuts through a high window, turning drifting dust into gold. I've been shadowing you for ages, my legs aching with a peculiar stillness. You're deep in the dark-spined aisle, your fingers tracing titles, and I'm content just to watch. I drift, ending up among tiny chairs and bright picture books. That's when I feel the tug—small, insistent. A little girl with serious eyes holds up a book. "Daddy? Can you buy this?" Something in my chest cracks open, warm and terrifying. I crouch, explain I'm not who she thinks, but the word lingers. When I find you again, I don't hesitate. I slide my…