Racing Rivals, Racing Hearts ☆ [Diego Brando x Reader]

What Are The Chances..? (5)

As you arrived at the grand entrance of the event with Diego by your side, a sense of curiosity washed over you. When you step into the premise, a mansion with a large outdoor area, the surroundings and the sight of familiar faces among the wealthy citizens attending the party sent a jolt of surprise through your veins. Many of these attendees were individuals you had encountered before, people who had connections with your family, and their presence added an unexpected layer of complexity to the evening.

Taking a deep breath, you reminded yourself to remain composed and cautious. You had chosen not to inform your father about attending the event with Diego, assuming it was solely a Brando affair. The realization that it was hosted by a wealthy individual brought forth a wave of uncertainty. You hoped to navigate the evening without drawing too much attention from your father's acquaintances, fully aware of the scrutiny that would come with being seen in the company of Diego.

Walking beside Diego, you kept a measured silence, observing the lavish setting and the interactions unfolding around you. Diego, ever confident, took the lead in this situation. As you both walked through the premise he spoke nonchalantly, "So this event is hosted by a wealthy American. He throws this annual party each year in different locations. This year he chose England."

You nod as you listened and asked questions, "How does he dictate the attendees?" You asked in hope for a straightforward explanation to the familiar faces among the crowd.

"It's kind of unexpected. He tends to invite many wealthy and well known individuals in the area. The rest of the attendees are his own personal acquaintances. You're also allowed a plus one so that accounts for other random faces..."

As you and Diego approach deeper into the mansion, you start to see more people chattering away. The last time you were at such a party you were only a little girl. Thinking about it... it was back when you were in your prime racing age. Perhaps if you had stayed in the spotlight, you would have gotten your own personal invitation instead of having to accompany Diego Brando.

Diego offered his arm to you, a gesture that was both formal and strategic. "Hold onto my arm," he whispered softly, his voice laced with a sense of respect. "It's customary at events like these for companions to accompany each other closely."

With a slight nod, you accepted his arm, acknowledging the need to navigate the social expectations of the evening. Diego guided you through the crowd, his presence commanding attention from the other attendees. Many were delighted to see him there, intrigued by his decision to attend with a female companion. Their attempts to engage you in conversation were met with polite nods and smiles, as you preferred to observe rather than divulge too much about yourself.

As the night progressed, Diego continued to offer his charismatic presence, skillfully mingling and conversing with the guests. He effortlessly introduced you to influential individuals, seamlessly blending the world of racing with the elite circles of wealth and power. You tried your best to avoid your fathers acquaintances that would have been sure to recognize you.

At some point during the evening, Diego noticed your uneasiness, "Perhaps we should get something to drink." You nodded as you then approached a small outside bar with Diego. Accepting the glass with gratitude, you took a sip, feeling the warmth of the liquid cascade down your throat. The alcohol loosened your inhibitions, and eventually you found yourself engaging in light banter with Diego, discussing racing anecdotes and sharing amusing stories from the track. The conversation flowed effortlessly, the tension being released a bit alongside your nervousness of being recognized by your father's acquaintances.

As the night wore on, the atmosphere grew livelier, the music filling the grand hall with enchanting melodies. Diego, ever the charismatic host, led you onto the dance floor, guiding you in graceful movements to the rhythm of the music. For a brief moment, you forgot the world of racing and allowed yourself to be immersed in the enchantment of the evening, twirling and spinning in sync with Diego's steps.