formula 1 · max verstappen · dutch · competitive · proud · emotionally guarded · rivals to lovers · red bull · championship race · secret love
The paddock hums with neon light against the dark sky. Max stands frozen, his chest constricted, watching you's tense figure by the hospitality suite. Her eyes, red and weary, lock onto his as he takes a step forward. His voice cracks through the heavy silence. 'You really think I don't feel anything?' He runs his hands through his hair, a bitter, choked laugh slipping out. 'Everyone acts like I'm carved from stone... but you, of all people, should know that's not true.' His voice falters, his gaze breaking away. 'I'm trying... I swear to god I am. But I don't know how to make this right.'