The Fire Inside (Sebastian Vettel)

8. The Next Step

Emily had been hoping to see Seb that night when the team had met for drinks back at the hotel. Lance had finished in tenth thanks to Seb's penalty, scoring Aston Martin's first points.

However Seb didn't put in an appearance. He must still be pretty pissed off. Saying that, Lance hadn't turned up either, so maybe they were doing something with the bosses. It was a good night but only short as, with Bahrain being a night race, it was already late when they met up.

Heading back to her room she groaned as Francesca joined her in the elevator.

"Such a shame about Seb," Francesca said. Emily nodded in agreement.

"I'm sure he will score points soon," she said.

"Yes, he will. Shame he couldn't make it tonight. I could have took his mind off of the race," the redhead said.

Emily rolled her eyes. This was why she had no time for Francesca. It wasn't just because she was talking about Seb. This was how she talked about most of the men she met.
"He is just gorgeous. And now he's single, so I'm gonna try my luck. You never know, he's probably horny as hell now he's not getting at home."

"Francesca, I really don't think it's appropriate to be talking about Seb like that."

"Oh Emily, you are such a prude! Maybe you need to get laid and loosen up a bit." They exited the lift and headed to their room. Emily decided she was going to have to have a word with the team coordinator about future room pairings. She really couldn't bear sharing with Francesca.

Emily opened the door and they both entered the room. She went into the bathroom to brush her teeth. She changed into her pyjamas and climbed into bed. She was just about to go to sleep when her phone beeped.

"Someone's texting you late," Francesca said. Emily didn't bother answering her. It was a strange number. She frowned and opened the message.

Unknown number: Hello beautiful. I know it's late but I wanted to apologise for not seeing you tonight. Lawrence and Otmar took Lance and I out. I'd have much rather been with you.

I'm sorry I was so moody earlier. And believe me when I say I want to kiss you more than anything. I hope you understand where I was coming from earlier. Anyway, I wanted to say goodnight and hopefully see you soon. Sweet dreams beautiful. Seb x

She smiled to herself. He really did have a way with words. She thought for a moment and tapped out a reply.

Emily: Hey you. It's OK, understand totally. Alonso was a prick. The FIA, well the words fail me. Hope you had a good time with the bosses.

You didn't miss much. We met for drinks but it was pretty boring. Play your cards right and you might get that kiss soon.

Give me a buzz if you're over at the factory before Imola. If I'm free perhaps you'd like to meet up? Anyway, how did you get my number? Ems x

A few minutes later a reply arrived.

Seb: I may or or may not have bumped into Joel after you left. I hope you don't mind. I kinda lied and said I wanted it for work reasons. I just had to contact you. I couldn't wait for Imola.

I'm going to be at the factory at some point between now and then but not sure when yet. But that sounds great. Look forward to it. Seb x

Emily: That's fine but Joel's not stupid. He probably knows full well it wasn't for work. So, I'll say goodnight now. Hopefully see you soon. Ems x

Seb: goodnight beautiful. Sweet dreams. Seb x

Up on the top floor Seb grinned to himself. There was progress. She had actually been the one to suggest they met up. He was winning her over.