Racing For Love

Chapter Ninety

The scorching Abu Dhabi sun beat down on the Yas Marina Circuit, casting a shimmering mirage over the track. The pit lane buzzed with anticipation as the final race of the season was about to commence. The stands were crowded with fans, celebrities and VIPs that had been crowding the pit lane were being ushered away as the cars prepared to leave the garages.

The nervous pit in my stomach refused to leave.

It was a race that held the weight of the entire season - the culmination of months of hard work and determination for the every team on the grid. For Bianchi Racing, it was the final race, a swan song, for a team, which had faced scandal and ruin during the season, and was ready to emerge from the ashes as Primo Rosso Racing with a clean slate, and a consortium who were dedicated to progressing the team in the right direction.

Jono had woken with a start in the early hours and under the shroud the darkness, he whispered his true feelings. He told me how scared he was, how he didn't want to let anyone down, how he was terrified of what it would mean to join a new team, how he wanted to leave a legacy at Bianchi and how he wanted to do the memory of Uncle Joe proud. I held him tightly as his tears spilled. It was all so intense, and all I could do was be there for him, gently stroking his hair and tear stained cheeks as he silently sobbed. We watched through the open curtains as the sun rose and Jono's jaw set once again in determination, neither of us mentioning those quietly whispered words as we got ready for the day.

I stood in the garage, some hours later, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of the team preparing for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The crew moved with choreographed precision, ensuring every detail of the car was perfect. The tension was palpable, but it was also laced with determination. Either one of the drivers could clinch the championship, and the atmosphere crackled with energy.

I watched as Jono went through his final checks, Jacques close to his side. He looked around, finding me easily, and walked over to my side. I pulled him into a hug, my mind whirred at what I could possibly say in this moment to him. I could feel the tension in his body and the rapid heartbeat that was barely concealed by his race suit. There were no words that could fully capture the intensity of this moment, but I knew I had to try.

I pulled back slightly, keeping my hands on his shoulders, and looked into his eyes. "JC," I began, my voice steady but filled with emotion, "you've worked so incredibly hard for this moment. You've poured your heart and soul into this season, and after today, it will all be over. No matter what happens out there, you need to know that I'm unbelievably proud of you. You're an incredible driver, and you've already achieved so much."

Jono nodded, his gaze never leaving mine. He seemed to be searching for something in my words, something to hold onto in the midst of the pressure and expectations.

"Remember why you love racing," I continued, "remember the thrill of being out on that track, the joy of pushing your limits. Trust yourself, trust your instincts, and trust your team. You're not alone, we're all with you."

He took a deep breath and a small smile played on his lips. "Thanks, Ace. I needed to hear that."

I leaned in and kissed him softly, a kiss filled with love and encouragement. "I'll be waiting for you at Parc Ferme. Go well, Jono. I love you."

Jono nodded again, his eyes shining with determination. He pulled me in for a final hug and I placed another firm kiss onto his lips before he turned and settled into his car, his visor down, concealing his emotions. He had fought tooth and nail all season for this moment, and now it was here.

Lorenzo, on the other hand, seemed calm and collected. He was in pole position, the best place to be on this circuit. As I glanced at him, I saw a hint of a smile on his face, a confidence that came with starting at the front. His struggles during the season had been well documented - his father's disappearance and Isa's rejection had nearly ruined him, but he had too fought hard and proved time and again why he was the reigning champion.