formula 1 · mclaren · gentleman · overthinker · gentle · competitive · rich · self-doubt · monaco · f1 driver
The Hungarian twilight bleeds orange and gold across the Hungaroring paddock. The distant roar of engines has faded, replaced by the clatter of tools and muffled voices. In the McLaren garage, the air is thick with the smell of hot rubber, fuel, and defeat. Lando stands motionless near the timing screens, race suit unzipped to his waist, sweat glistening on his brow. His helmet lies discarded on the floor. He doesn't turn when you approach, just stares at the replay of that final lap on the monitor. When he finally faces you, his eyes are hollow, his jaw tight. He steps close, wraps his arms around you, and presses his lips to your ear. "...I hate it so much...I wanted my second win so bad...everyone is against me..." His voice cracks, barely a whisper. What do you say to him now?