Sparks Fly- L.N

Chapter 20

Elenore and Lando had settled into a comforting routine. While Lando continued his rehabilitation, Elenore had thrown herself into her work, finding solace in the familiar rhythms of her daily life. Still, they cherished their stolen moments together, cherishing every laugh, every touch, and every quiet conversation that strengthened their bond.

One evening, as they prepared to go to bed, Elenore stood in the bathroom, diligently brushing her teeth. Lando, drawn by the familiar comfort of her presence, quietly entered the room. Their eyes met in the mirror, and his gaze was filled with warmth and affection.
"Darling?" he began, his voice tender as he approached her, wrapping his arms around her waist. Elenore, her mouth filled with toothpaste foam, hummed in response, signaling that she was listening. A smile graced Lando's lips as he delivered his proposal.
"Would it be alright if we drove up to Bristol this weekend? My parents have offered to host us in their countryside home." Elenore paused, the toothbrush momentarily still in her mouth, as she contemplated the idea. A rush of emotions flooded her: excitement at the thought of getting to know Lando's family better, a touch of anxiety about making a good impression, and, above all, the warmth of love that this invitation represented. She finished brushing her teeth and rinsed her mouth before turning to face Lando, a genuine smile breaking through her initial hesitation.
"I would love to, mon amour," she replied, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. The possibility of spending quality time with Lando and getting to know his family better filled her with a sense of adventure. Lando's smile widened, and he gently caressed her cheek.
"You're the best, you know that?" Elenore chuckled softly, her heart swelling with affection. "Well, I have the best boyfriend to keep up with." She kissed his cheek. 

As she climbed into her bed she looked over at the open bathroom door to see what Lando was up to. She saw him looking at his broken wrist, bending his fingers slowly. She knew that it pained him not to be able to drive. She also knew that his parents had likely invited them to stay at their place for the weekend because it was the first race in Lando's Formula One career where he would not be in his car.
"Mon amour?" As she called out for him she saw how he plastered on a smile. 
"Yes?" He walked out to the bedroom and sat down beside her. 
"Something is wrong," she said as she reached over and grabbed his hand. "Talk to me." He looked at her with a conflicted expression. 
"I," he sighed. "I just feel like I am letting Mclaren down." He looked down, not meeting her gaze. 
"Oh mon amour," she carefully placed a hand on his cheek. "That is not the case, you did nothing wrong." 
"I know, but it is just hard." He looked up at her with a weak smile. 
"We will get through this and when you come back you will be stronger and better than ever. I promise." She kissed his forehead.  "But now, I want to sleep. " She laid down. "Come here," she opened her arms and Lando complied. Placing his head on her chest. Wrapped in the warmth of their embrace, they drifted off to sleep, knowing that they would face whatever challenges lay ahead together, their love stronger than any adversity. 

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The day had arrived, the day when Elenore would finally meet Lando's parents. They had decided to take Lando's car and had packed everything they needed early in the morning. As they drove through the picturesque English countryside, they enjoyed the freedom of the open road and the anticipation of what lay ahead.
Music played softly in the background, setting the perfect soundtrack for their journey. They sang along to their favorite songs, their voices filling the car with laughter and joy. Lando's hand occasionally found its way to Elenore's, their fingers entwining in a silent promise of support and love. The rolling hills and old villages passed by outside the car windows, the scenery a patchwork of green fields and charming cottages. Elenore marveled at the beauty of the countryside, feeling a sense of calmness wash over her. It was a far cry from the bustling city life she was accustomed to."So, what should I know about your parents?" Elenore asked, breaking the comfortable silence. She turned her head to look at Lando, her eyes filled with curiosity and a touch of nervousness.Lando grinned, his eyes fixed on the road ahead.
"Well, my dad is a bit of a history buff. He loves classic cars and often goes on and on about their engines and designs. Mum, on the other hand, is an incredible cook. You'll probably gain a few pounds from her delicious meals." Elenore chuckled, feeling more at ease with Lando's lighthearted description of his parents.
"Sounds like your dad and I could have some interesting conversations. And your mum's cooking? I can't wait to try it." Lando glanced at her, his eyes softening with affection."They'll love you, Elenore. Just be yourself, and you'll charm them in no time."

The moment Elenore laid eyes on Lando's family's ancestral home, she was taken aback by its majesty and beauty. The massive old stone house stood before them, decorated with a hedge of vibrant roses and surrounded by a scattering of apple trees. It was a sight to behold, a testament to generations of history and tradition.
"It's stunning," Elenore whispered in awe, her gaze lingering on the impressive structure. She knew of Lando's family's wealth, but this house exceeded her expectations. It was not just the extravagance that captivated her; it was the significance it held for Lando's family and the idea of a shared future it symbolized. Lando, with a fond smile, explained,
"It's a family heirloom, passed down for five generations. One day, it'll be ours." His words filled Elenore's heart with warmth and hope, knowing that Lando envisioned a future with her.

Eager to greet his parents, Lando retrieved their bags from the car, and Elenore continued to admire the picturesque surroundings. She marveled at the roses and apple trees, imagining how beautiful the place would be in full bloom."They're probably inside," Lando said as he gestured toward the main house. "Let's go say hi, and then we can take the bags to the guest house." Elenore raised an eyebrow at the mention of a guest house, prompting a chuckle from Lando.
"A bit snobby, isn't it?" he laughed, leading the way up the stairs to the imposing front door.With a mixture of excitement and nervousness, Elenore followed Lando to the entrance. As he knocked on the door, her heart raced, knowing that she was about to meet Lando's parents for the first time. The door swung open, revealing a warm and welcoming smile. It was Lando's mother, Cisca, who greeted them with open arms. She embraced her son tightly."Hello, darling!" Cisca's voice was filled with warmth as she looked at Lando. Then, turning to Elenore, she continued, "And you must be Elenore." Her smile was genuine and kind. Elenore couldn't help but smile in return, her nervousness dissipating in the face of Cisca's warm reception.
"Yes, that's me," she replied with a smile of her own. Cisca approached Elenore and enveloped her in a motherly hug. "You are just as beautiful as Lando said," she complimented, her words filled with sincerity. Elenore felt a wave of relief wash over her. Meeting your partner's parents for the first time could be an intimidating experience, but Cisca's warm and friendly demeanor put her at ease."Thank you," Elenore replied, her voice tinged with gratitude. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Cisca." Cisca stepped back and gave Elenore an appraising look, her eyes filled with curiosity and kindness.
"Likewise, dear. We've heard so much about you," she said warmly. Before Elenore could respond, Lando's father, Adam, appeared at the doorway, a warm smile on his face. He was tall and distinguished, with a twinkle of mischief in his eyes."What's all the commotion about?" he asked in a lively tone. "Oh, it must be our special guests!" Robert extended his hand to Lando, who greeted his father with a hug."And you must be Elenore," Robert said as he turned his attention to her. He shook her hand warmly, his grip firm but friendly. "Lando has told us so much about you." Elenore blushed slightly, feeling a mix of flattery and nervousness. She knew that making a good impression on her partner's parents was important, and she hoped to live up to their expectations."We're delighted to have you both here," Robert continued. "Come on in, and let's get to know each other better."
As Elenore and Lando entered the grand house, they were enveloped by its warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior was as charming as the exterior, with antique furniture, tasteful decor, and family portraits adorning the walls. It was a place steeped in history and love, Elenore's heart swelled as they sat in the cozy living room, engrossed in conversation with Lando's parents. The sense of belonging she felt was like a warm embrace, and she found herself sharing stories and laughter as if she had known them for years. Two hours passed in what felt like moments before Cisca glanced at the clock."Now, now. You two should head out to the guest house and get settled. Dinner will be ready in about an hour," Cisca said with a warm smile. With a sense of reluctance, they all stood up, knowing that more delightful moments would follow later.Exiting the main house, Lando opened the door to the guest house for Elenore. Her eyes immediately fell upon a photograph of a young Lando, proudly standing on a podium with a trophy held high above his head."Oh, that's the most adorable thing I've ever seen," Elenore exclaimed, her eyes dancing with delight. She walked closer to the picture. "How old were you in this picture?"Lando gently set down their bags and joined Elenore by the photo. He looked at it, reminiscing about his past.
"I think I was about 10. That was when I won a race in London." Turning toward him, Elenore wrapped her arms around his neck, her eyes filled with affection. 

"I love you, Lando," she said, her voice filled with sincerity. A warm smile spread across Lando's face, his blue eyes locking onto hers.
"I love you, Elenore." Leaning down, he captured her lips in a sweet, tender kiss, sealing their love with a promise of more beautiful moments to come.