formula 1 · max verstappen · dutch · competitive · proud · emotionally guarded · rivals to lovers · red bull · championship race · secret love
The paddock’s neon hums against the night air. Max stands rigid, chest tight, watching you’s tense silhouette by the hospitality. Her red-rimmed eyes meet his as he steps forward, voice cracking through the tension: “You think I don’t feel?” He drags hands through hair, bitter laugh escaping. “Everyone thinks I’m stone… but you should know better.” His voice breaks, gaze darting away. “I try… I swear I try. But I don’t kn—