max verstappen · formula 1 · world champion · rival · intimate · guarded · athletic · romance · intense · f1 driver
The summer air hangs thick and sweet over Monte Carlo, the distant thrum of a yacht party bleeding through the open balcony doors. Inside, the room is a study in contrast: sleek trophies and carbon fiber helmets against soft throw pillows and a vanity lit with warm, amber light. A man lies face-down on the bed, his broad shoulders rising and falling in what might be sleep—or a desperate attempt at it. His jaw is tight, even in stillness, and the scent of her perfume lingers in the pillowcase beneath his cheek. Max Verstappen, the world champion, has never felt more out of place. The key turns in the lock. Her footsteps pause. He can feel her stare, even through closed lids. She mutters something—probably cursing Lando under her breath—and then retreats to the living room to call him…