Medical attention I Max Verstappen

Failing your doctor's appointment

The alarm jolts me awake at 07:30. I splash water on my face, and in the mirror, I'm greeted by a surprisingly awake version of myself. Miraculously, yesterday's escapades haven't left me entirely wrecked. It's amazing how a night out, which would have been an absolute "no-no" at my old job, is here coined as "networking." Thank god I only had two drinks yesterday.

I slip into a linen dress and quickly twist my hair up in a bun. As I walk out of the hotel, the receptionist shouts, "You look stunning as always, Ms. Moretti!" I give him a little twirl in return and put my hands in the pockets to show that this dress, indeed, has pockets.  A feature that is rare, and always deserves to be shown off.

When I reach the Red Bull office, Graham intercepts me in the corridor, his freckled presence stopping me in my tracks. "Nic! I apologize for interrupting you amidst your... other business. I would like to extend an invitation to you, to join the rest of the team for a snorkeling activity tonight. The entire Red Bull team will be there."

I give him a polite smile. "Thank you. I'll consider it."

Graham's expression turns slightly puzzled, and he adjusts his tie nervously. "Actually, it's more of a mandatory team event, unless you have a medical condition that prevents you, in which case you would need clearance from a medical professional before going. And, I assume getting medical clearance wouldn't be an issue for you, given your... background," he says, his words carrying a hint of awkwardness.

"So, it's not exactly an invitation, then?" I seek clarification.

He clears his throat, his gaze slightly uneasy. "Well, it's a team-building activity, but I understand if there's confusion in the presentation."

Graham takes a deep breath before continuing, his tone more uncertain. "Could you, perhaps, mention the event to Max? I know it's not strictly within your job description, but it would greatly enhance the chances of his participation."

I tilt my head slightly, considering his request. "Graham, that really isn't part of my work, or contract. I have actually read it through now, so I would know."

He seems to absorb my words, then purses his lips, a thoughtful look on his face. "I understand your perspective, Nic. However, there's a higher likelihood that he might consider attending the mandatory event if, let's say, you bring it up to him."

I nod slowly. "So, he can skip mandatory events but I can't? The unfairness!" I pretend to pout. Graham fiddles nervously, and his voice breaks into a high-pitched screech as he says, "There are certain exceptions."

I grin. "I just need to win a few Grand Prix? Is that all? Piece of cake." 

Graham is sweating violently through his clothes, armpit stains visible, probably afraid of an impending HR complaint. So I continue, "I will ask him for you. Just because you asked nicely, but you owe me one!" I give him a wink before I start walking down the hall. Behind me, I hear Graham say, "Thank you, but I would prefer if you didn't make it sound so ominous, Dr. Moretti."

Before I can even settle into my office, a message on pops up on my screen, it reads: "Call me". Unexpectedly it is from Mom. My curiosity piqued, but I have more important things to do. I tuck my phone back into my pocket, diving into my work for now.

We've opted to begin BMP treatment for Checo. The prognosis isn't promising, but it's our best shot. I examine and palpate his leg; it's a relief to find the hard muscles are keeping everything in place. 

In the afternoon, I have a scheduled meeting, hopefully with the man of the hour, Max Verstappen. Emphasis on "hopefully." Max seems to come and go as he pleases, both with his friends and his job. I however can't help but empathize with his situation. Charles hinted that he's been going through a breakup, and I know firsthand how hard those can be. Perhaps I can cut him some slack.