Brother's best friend

FIFTH WHEEL(18)

Charlotte, Charles, Lando, Carlos, and you gathered around the breakfast table, enjoying a pleasant morning before the excitement of qualifying. Charlotte, while feeling a bit nervous about the upcoming race, found comfort in the company of her loved ones. As you savored each bite and engaged in lively discussions, the camaraderie among the group was evident. Carlos and Lando exchanged playful jabs and shared their excitement for the upcoming quali. You couldn't help but admire the bond that they had between them, despite the complexities of the situation, you didn't want to ruin their friendship, you didn't want to ruin anything.

-Charles once told me that you feel something before the race and after, I wanna know more. -You said intrigued.

-He's right, the thing is, everything that happens on track, is up to us, that's a big pressure. -Lando replied. You and Charlotte were paying attention.

-Even if we want to disobey any instruction from the team, it's up to us. We're alone out there, but that's why sometimes the nerves fade away. If something happens, we can do something about it. -Carlos added.

-What happens before overwhelms us because in our minds all possible scenarios start running through, all the possibilities that exist, regarding what can happen on the track and the outcome. -Charles said, Carlos and Lando nodded.

-That's interesting -Charlotte said.

-When we stop at the pits is the only moment when we get to interact with someone else. -Lando said.

-Doesn't it get lonely sometimes in the race? -You asked curious.

-Yeah, it kind of does, you're so focused and alone. -Carlos said to you. -Although the team keeps us informed about incidents or positions of others, issues with the car, it can still be very lonely at times.

-It's a reminder of the individual nature of the sport and the personal challenges that come with it. -Charles said.

-Well, good luck guys. -You said. -Me and Charlotte will be supporting you.

The qualifying was intense and filled with excitement. The engines roared and the tires screeched as the cars slid through the corners with speed and precision. As the session progressed, nerves and concentration heightened. Teams worked diligently in the pits, making last-minute adjustments and providing support to their drivers. In every turn, straightaway, and braking point, a battle for the pole position unfolded. The drivers returned to the pits with a sense of satisfaction, knowing they had given their all in each lap. Now, with the positions determined, they prepared themselves for the challenge that awaited them in the main race.

Charles got P1,  a testament to his skill and determination. Carlos got P5 and Lando P9. The guys stayed a bit longer to address some matters, and you and Charlotte decided to head back to the hotel to freshen up before reuniting with them. The drive back was filled with lively conversation as you shared your excitement and discussed the upcoming race. Once at the hotel, you and Charlotte took a moment to relax. You decided to head to the hotel pool despite the overcast weather. The clouds cast a muted light over the area, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. As you arrived at the poolside, you noticed the stillness in the air, giving a sense of calm and tranquility. You and Charlotte found a couple of lounge chairs and settled in, ready to enjoy some relaxation and conversation. Before getting into the pool, you texted Lando, letting him know that you were there in case they decided to join.

-You know, Charlotte? I'm happy that you came and I love that you're supporting my brother so much, he doesn't say much but sometimes I feel like he's giving up.

-I'm happy to be here and to get to spend time with you -She smiled. -Yeah...he's so reserved sometimes.

-Since our dad died he became like that, I thought he was going to sink into a severe depression and I wouldn't know how to pull him out of there, it was tough and it was difficult that he made it to Formula 1 and our dad wasn't here to see it. But despite that, I greatly admire his courage and strength, I admire his determination. I know that sometimes he gets tired and feels like he can't go on anymore, but he never gives up. -Your eyes were watering.

-I couldn't agree more. Charles is truly an inspiration. His resilience and never-give-up attitude are remarkable. I'm grateful to be by his side and support him through it all and support you too, Y/n, you can count on me. -You exchanged a smile, and suddenly you heard shouts of excitement. It was the guys running in their swimwear, jumping into the pool and splashing everyone around. Laughter filled the air as water droplets sparkled in the sunlight, creating a playful and joyous atmosphere.

Lando approached you and lifted you up in his arms, his playful energy contagious. You couldn't help but laugh as he spun you around gently in the water, creating ripples of happiness. He started to kiss you and you forgot you weren't alone.

-Ew! Norris, Y/n's brother here. -Charles said covering his eyes.

-I'm sorry mate, I got caught in the moment. -You and Lando laughed.

Charlotte and Charles also shared a lovely moment. They sat by the poolside, you and Lando were in the water, Carlos was across from you, watching you and Lando, you gave him a smile but he got out.

-Where are you going mate? -Charles asked him.

-I'm sorry, I'm tired, I'll see you guys tomorrow. -He left and the place fell silent, everyone exchanged glances.

-I guess being a third wheel is one thing, but being a fifth wheel in a group is something I wouldn't wish on anyone. -Charles said trying to lighten the mood. Understanding that Carlos couldn't see you and Lando together.

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I feel so bad for Carlos :( but also love Lando and Y/n's relationship 😩
What do you all think? Lmk!
I'll post another chapter when we get to 790 followers on tiktok! ✨
Tiktok: f1.wag

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