Speed and Secrets // Charles Leclerc

Chapter five

Valletta, Malta
8th June 2019
10:00 pm

Charles

"So, Lola, why are you wearing my clothes again? Did you run out of your own?" I say jokingly as we walk down to the breakfast buffet.

"Oh, Charles, always so grumpy. Just thought I'd borrow your impeccable fashion sense for a change." She rolls her eyes.

"Borrowing my clothes? I didn't realize you were in such desperate need of a style upgrade." I say. I look at her teasingly. She actually looked quite fine wearing my clothes.

"Desperate? Please, Charles. I just thought it would be amusing to see how much better I can rock your wardrobe than you." She gives me an elbow in the side.

"You little-" I get interrupted by Carlos saying: "Hey, Charles, I see Lola's raiding your closet. You know what they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery."

I roll my eyes. "Carlos, don't encourage her. She's already insufferable enough as it is."

"Oh, come on, Charles. Admit it, I look fabulous in your clothes. Maybe even better than you do." She says with a teasing tone.

"Fine, Lola. I'll give you credit where it's due. You do have a knack for stealing my style." I say grudgingly.

"That's the spirit, Charles." She says while pointing at me.

Carlos chuckles. "You two are quite the pair."

"No we're not!" Lola and I say almost at the same time.

"I really want to go to that park we saw on the way to the hotel. Anyone coming with me?" Lola says with her cheerful smile.

"I'll go with you if you allow me." I say.

"Normally I wouldn't but this time I can make an exception." She says teasingly.

After breakfast.

Lola and I continued our banter, trading playful insults and mocking each other. As we walked outside, I couldn't resist the urge to challenge her to a race. "Hey Lola, I bet I can beat you to the park!" I exclaimed, a mischievous grin on my face.

Lola scoffed, clearly up for the challenge. "You're on, Charles! Prepare to eat my dust!" she retorted, her competitive spirit shining through.

With adrenaline pumping, we took off running, our feet pounding against the pavement. The wind rushed past my face as I pushed myself to the limit, determined to prove that I could outpace Lola. We laughed and shouted encouragements to each other as we sprinted side by side, the park getting closer with each step.

Finally, we reached the park, panting and out of breath. We collapsed onto a nearby bench, gasping for air but grinning from ear to ear. Our competitive banter had transformed into a shared sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.

"Alright, Charles, you got me this time," Lola admitted, a playful glint in her eyes. "But don't get too comfortable... I'll beat you next time!" We were both out of breath. We were laying across the bench with heavy breaths.

After catching our breath, Lola and I decided to explore the park together. We wandered through the lush greenery, sharing stories and getting to know each other better. Surprisingly, our playful banter turned into genuine laughter and enjoyment.

"So, Charles, what's your favorite type of ice cream?" Lola says while looking at me.
"Hmm, tough choice! I'd have to say a cookie dough. How about you, Lola?"

"Oh, definitely chocolate. Can't resist that sweet, chocolaty goodness!" She says.

"Should we get an ice cream then. There's a little shop over there." I say as I point in the direction of the ice cream shop.

"Ooh yes." Lola says cheerfully.

We walk over to the ice cream shop and get some ice cream.

Sitting on a nearby bench, we savored every bite, our taste buds dancing with delight. Between mouthfuls, we discussed our dreams, aspirations, and the unexpected possibilities that life had in store for us. It was a moment of connection and vulnerability, as we shared our hopes and fears.

"You know, Lola, I've always been a fan of challenges and competitions. It's exciting to push ourselves and see what we're capable of." I say while eating the last bit of my ice cream.

"I feel the same way, Charles. Life is all about embracing the unexpected and stepping out of our comfort zones."

Feeling energized, we decided to try something adventurous. We spotted a rock climbing wall nearby and couldn't resist the challenge. With determination in our eyes, we strapped on the safety gear and began our ascent. Each grip and foothold required focus and strength, but we cheered each other on, pushing ourselves to new heights.

"You're doing great, Lola! Keep going, you're almost there!" I say as I look over at her.
"Thanks, Charles! Your encouragement really helps." She looks a bit scared but she manages to keep up the pace.

As we reached the top, a sense of accomplishment washed over us. We high-fived, feeling a surge of adrenaline and pride. From that moment on, our relationship shifted. We were still kinda enemies, but there was this spark in her eyes when she looked at me.

-
Sorry it took me so long to write this chapter but I have had so much homework. This chapter was not filled with so much action but I promise you there will be more in the next chapters.

Hope you liked this chapter<3