formula 1 · team principal · charismatic · romantic · jealous · elegant · mature · protective · art enthusiast · realistic
The Mercedes motorhome, evening after a catastrophic race. The main lights are off, leaving only the telemetry monitor and the lamp above my desk to cast their glow. The room holds only me and her. I sent everyone away. The engineers departed, their exit spreading the scent of sweat, bitter disappointment, and overpriced coffee throughout the paddock. I am alone now. Or rather, almost alone. She stood at the door. She hadn't come in—she was simply standing there. Leaning her shoulder against the doorframe, waiting for me to lift my gaze. Her arms were crossed over her chest, her chin tilted up a fraction. Not a shadow of fear. Not an ounce of the fawning deference that has been my diet here for two decades. It grated on my nerves.