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

Center of the Racing World Pt. 1. (26)

You looked Diego straight in the eyes, determination in your voice. "We're rivals, Diego. That's what our relationship is."

Diego's lips curled into a sly smile, as if he had expected that answer. "Rivals, huh? That's a shame. I was hoping for something more... exciting."

You rolled your eyes, not wanting to entertain his flirtations any longer. "Don't be ridiculous, Diego."

He chuckled softly, his gaze still fixed on you. "Alright, alright. Rivals it is, then."

The conversation seemed to hang in the air for a moment longer before Diego cleared his throat, shifting the topic away from your relationship. "I'll see you next week at the race."

With that he turned to leave.

———

As you arrived at the race venue, you couldn't help but scan the crowd for any sign of Diego, he was always the type to arrive early to races.

The racecourse was buzzing with activity as the day of the local race had arrived. You went through your usual routine, carefully checking Lady Luck's gear and giving her a pep talk.

Minutes ticked by, and the race was about to begin, but there was no sign of Diego. Just when you had started to worry, he appeared seemingly out of nowhere, strolling in nonchalantly with his horse.

You rushed over to him, your concern spilling out before you could stop it. "Where have you been, Diego? You're cutting it close."

Diego's lips curled into a sly smile as he adjusted his gloves. "You're adorable when you worry about me. I didn't know you cared so much about my presence."

You felt your cheeks flush at his teasing. "I'm not worried about you, I just—"

"—Missed me?" Diego interrupted, his tone teasing. "How cute."

You huffed in annoyance. "Don't be ridiculous, Diego. Let's just focus on the race."

Why were you suddenly concerned about Diego's presence at the race when, in the past, you had been perfectly content with him staying away?

You and Diego guided your horses into starting position. The race was intense, the wind whipping past you as the sound of hooves filled the air. You and Diego were neck and neck, pushing your horses to the finish line.

In the final stretch, Diego's horse pulled ahead, and he crossed the finish line victorious. It was a bit of a bitter pill to swallow, but things are back to usual.

...things are back to usual.

You dismounted your horse as Diego approached you, "Well Y/N, looks like my return was a success," he chuckled.

Just as you were about to respond, a local press crew approached both of you for an interview. Diego, still riding high on his win, graciously agreed.

The reporter turned to you. "Y/N, what are your thoughts on Diego's return to the local races?"

You forced a smile, hiding your frustration. "It's always great to have tough competition. Diego is a formidable jockey, and his presence elevates the sport."

Diego, ever the showman, added, "And don't forget, Y/N and I have a rivalry that keeps the fans on the edge of their seats. Racing against her is always a thrill. I'm glad to be back to these local races."

The press crew continued their questions, aiming to dig deeper into the dynamic between you and Diego.

"Ms. Y/N, what are your thoughts on the rivalry between you and Brando?" the reporter asked, clearly intrigued by the tension between you two.

You chose your words carefully. "Rivalries are an essential part of any competitive sport. They push us to improve and reach new heights. Diego and I have had our fair share of intense races, and I'm sure there will be many more in the future."

Diego chimed in, his tone playful. "Ah, yes, our races are legendary, aren't they, Y/N? But I have to admit, I enjoy every moment of our friendly competition."

The reporter shifted gears, turning their attention to Diego. "Mr. Brando, what can you tell us about your decision to return to local races after focusing on larger competitions?"

Diego's smile held a hint of nostalgia. "Well, you see, the local races have a unique charm. It's where I started, where I honed my skills. Racing here reminds me of the excitement and passion that drew me into this sport in the first place. And of course, there's the added bonus of racing against Y/N." He suddenly wraps an arm around your shoulder as he flashes a smile to the reporters.

You couldn't help but roll your eyes at his action.

The reporter pressed further. "What's your take on Ms. Y/N's skills as a jockey, Mr. Brando?"

Diego's gaze turned serious as he considered his response. "Y/N is a remarkable jockey. Her dedication and talent are undeniable. I've had the privilege of racing against her many times, and each race is a true test of skill. I have the utmost respect for her."

You were taken aback by his unexpectedly earnest answer. It was a rare moment of sincerity from your rival.

The reporter nodded, satisfied with the responses. "Thank you both for your time. Congratulations on the race, Mr. Brando and Ms. L/N."

As the press moved on to the next interview, Diego leaned in close, his voice low. "You were worried about me, Y/N. I saw it in your eyes."

You couldn't deny it. There was something about Diego's presence today that had thrown you off balance. You glanced at him, a hint of confusion in your gaze. "Why does it matter if I was worried or not?"

Diego's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Because, my dear rival, it means you care. And that's a weakness I intend to exploit."

You couldn't help but scoff at his response. "Don't mistake my concern for weakness," you retorted, your voice laced with a touch of annoyance.

Diego snickered as he removes his arm from your shoulder, "How often did you get interviewed after your races while I was gone? Despite my absences, I still checked the papers and I don't recall any interviews."

"The press returned because you're here." You sigh as you reluctantly admit.

"Figured," he said with a self-satisfied smile, putting his hands on his hips. "I have that effect, don't I?"

You shook your head, a reluctant smile tugging at your lips. "You're insufferable, Diego."

Diego chuckled, the sound sending a shiver down your spine. "But you love it."

Another reporter approached, "Excuse me, Mr. Brando, could we get a few words about your return to the local racing scene?"

Diego turned to the reporter with a charismatic grin. "Of course, darling. Ask away."

You took that as your cue to leave, turning away from Diego. But Diego quickly grabbed your arm with a firm grip as he pulled you back to him.

You shot him a look as he lowered his voice so only you heard, "Y/N, where do you think you're going?" He asks with a cocky grin.

"This is your interview, not mine." You rolled your eyes in a bit of annoyance. Diego liked being the center of attention and for the past couple months, it's as if he's been the whole center of the racing world.

Diego smirks, "Is your ego so fragile that you can't handle me getting a little attention from the press? I thought we were supposed to be rivals." He laughs and gestures towards the reporter.

He leans in to whisper in your ear, "I think you need a lesson in humility, don't you think?"

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