golden | d.ricciardo

twenty

XX. Off the Market

ITALY: May 2023

RACE DAY: Clara felt the nerves eating her up. She didn't have Christian's attention today. He was too busy making sure that his boys would end up in high places.

She was nervous at how the fans would take the PR stunt. It wasn't her first rodeo with things like this but for some reason, she was scared at how people would react towards Daniel. Today was the day that the PR stunt would push through and she knew that all eyes would be on Redbull.

Don't get her wrong, Scarlet was a sweetheart, but so was Daniel. He knew he would able to handle it but she was just unsure how the fans will react to this relationship.

"You look like you're about to shit bricks." Nathalie Clemént said. The girl had been in the F1 scene because of her best friend. It did not take long for them to meet and when they did, they got along.

"Thanks Thals. You really help a lot." Clara said as she turned away from where Daniel and the mechanics. The model smirked and shrugged, "That's what I do. Anyways, why does it seem you're about to throw up your breakfast." she asked concerned for her new friend.

"Nerves." Clara simply answered. Nathalie who knew about the PR relationship, raised an eyebrow at her. "PR stunt?"

Clara couldn't help but frown, "I just don't want the fans to see it's PR. This is great for Daniel's reputation." she said, planning on sounding to become as professional as she can be. But Thalie, being the observant person that she is merely scoffed. Not believing that that was the only reason.

"Okay. Talk to me." Thalie said, fully facing Clara. The PR Manager gulped and glanced at Daniel who was focused on the car he was to drive in a few hours.

"I am."

"Really talk to me. Not as Clara Ankin the PR Manager. But as Clara." Silence. Another way of Clara to use as a defense mechanism. The model huffed and crossed her arms, "We don't have all day."

"I- I don't have the right. I'm sorry." Clara said as she looked at Thalie. The model studied her friend and frowned, this stunt was clearly bothering her and she worried for her. "It's okay. Just think about it." She sent her a soft smile, trying to convince her in the calmest voice.

But deep down, Clara knew it wouldn't be alright. Her heart has been betraying her.

Interview: "Daniel! Congratulations on the P5!" Evangeline said happily. This made Daniel laugh and nod, "Thank you! The adrenaline is still kicking my ass though so apologies for the things that will spill out of my mouth."

Daniel was clearly buzzing with excitement and everyone that was around him knew that. Max knew that, the team and mechanics knew that, and Clara knew that. It brought a light atmosphere to Redbull.

Evangeline shook her head as she chuckled, "It's okay. Yesterday you were quite the camera favorite. A few people have taken notice of your little interaction with model, Scarlet Lovelle." she said in her reporter's voice. Although seeing through things she didn't want to pry more if the driver was uncomfortable.

"Ugh..." Daniel looked at Clara, as if asking for a signal and all she gave was a nod. Flashing his famous smile towards the reporter, he spoke again, "Actually, the thing is, that wasn't mine and Scarlet's first meeting."

This piqued the reporter's interest, "Could it be? Scarlet is the mystery woman in your posts." She waited for Daniel's reply, he smiled brightly and nodded happily, "Yep! She has the most amazing personality and I have been enjoying her company."

"Are you saying, there is more than friendship there?"

"You'll just have to see for yourself."

And towards the side stood Clara Ankin, the PR Manager of the Redbull team. And despite the success of the announcement, her heart broke and she didn't like it.