GRIDLOCK - Lando Norris [BOOK 1 Gridlock Series]

25

I'm a week into my Florence trip and I haven't heard the words pit-lane, Verstappen, Formula 1 or Norris all week and it's honestly refreshing.

I attended the private tour of the Leonardo Da Vinci Interactive Museum and the workshop with David Hockney and to be honest, I've never felt more inspired. I suddenly see this big future for myself that is completely separate from Formula One and it's crazy.

Mr Hockney had some amazing insight into the world of art and it really helped me to appreciate my own creativity more. To understand that my own unique style is something to be celebrated and proud of, and the only time I've come close to feeling a sense of pride behind my work is when Charles insisted on keeping his portrait.

Walking through the city at golden hour and taking in the beautiful architecture in this city, I try and picture myself away from my normal life. I try and grasp an illusion of what life would be like if I decided to go to school and make something of my own passion.

To walk away from the pit lane and the grid and leave it all behind. Not be anyone's sister anymore.

And as much as that all sounds like a dream, it's not me. My life has been circulated around the paddock my entire life and I couldn't imagine ever saying goodbye to it. Not completely at least.

I want Formula One in my life, I want to be known as Max's sister. Sure it hinders a few aspects but possibly that's more surrounded by poor choices on my part rather than on the circumstance.

Whilst attempting to stay true to my word, I've completely missed the Brazil Grand Prix. My phone has been off since I arrived and I have no idea on the results or any messages that have come through. I've completely shut off. But knowing that the race as last night and everyone is about to head off to the US for the second last race of the season, I feel like I'm at a loss when I am out of the loop.

I flick my phone on and although I had informed Charles, Johan and Max of my plans, a stream of unread messages come through the phone.

Charles:

I know you won't get this but I just wanted to check in anyway

Miss you

Qualifying was terrible today, makes me nervous for the race tomorrow

Race was shit, I need my good luck charm back

Johan:

Miss you

Miss you

Wish you were here.

Miss you.

And only one from Max, which had been sent this morning

Check the latest on Norris, you'll find it interesting.

And just as I was about to get on the search bar. An incoming call from a private number starts sounding on my screen.

"Hello?" I answer it.

"Evelyn?" I know his voice

"Lando, hi" I wilted again

"I'm racing in US, I got the all clear" he chimes.

My mouth drops open in shock "you're kidding!" I boast