Roommates Mismatched: Lando Norris

Twenty Nine

After Lando's podium finish, the team moved from the garage into the hospitality to commemorate the success. Lando was greeted with more applause and cheers from people who gathered there, including a few guests.

Inside the dining hall, the atmosphere was exhilarating. Champagne bottles were popped, and the bubbly liquid sprayed in all directions. Lando, soaked in champagne, wore a triumphant smile as he embraced his teammates and the Quadrant members.

The team's principal and staff members shared in the jubilation, clinking glasses and offering their congratulations. It was a true team effort that had led to this podium finish, and the McLaren family reveled in the moment.

Standing among the McLaren team, I couldn't have felt more welcomed and included. I exchanged hugs and handshakes with the staff, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this close-knit Formula 1 community.

Lando, still beaming with pride, took a moment to express his gratitude once again. "I couldn't have done it without the incredible support from my friends and the unwavering dedication of my McLaren team," he said, his voice filled with emotion.

We all raised our glasses in a toast, clinking them with the McLaren team, symbolizing the shared victory they had all achieved. Sipping on the bubbly, my eyes darted to where Lando hugs Luisa, whispering to her hear making her grin. Turning away, I didn't want to ruin my mood.

The celebration was in full swing, but felt a pang of jealousy beneath my excitement. I slipped away, finding a quiet corner outside to catch my breath and clear my thoughts.

As I stood there, the warm Abu Dhabi night breeze gently ruffled my hair. I tried to shake off the feelings, reminding myself of the joy I felt for Lando's success and the happiness he found with his girlfriend, Luisa. But the twinge of jealousy remained.

Just when I thought she was alone, I heard footsteps approaching. Turned to see Lando making his way toward me. His expression was a mix of happiness and exhaustion from the long race day.

"Hey, Audrie," Lando said with a warm smile as he joined me in the quiet corner.

"Hey," I replied, trying to sound casual but struggling to hide the unease.

We stood in silence for a moment, both seemingly unsure of what to say. I wanted to congratulate Lando again, but the jealousy lingered, making the conversation feel awkward.

Lando finally broke the silence. "I hope you're having a good time, Audrie. This victory means a lot to me."

Audrie nodded, my smile a bit forced. "It's incredible, Lando. You deserve it."

Lando's brow furrowed slightly as he sensed the discomfort. "Is everything okay, Audrie? You seem a bit...off."

I hesitated, not sure if I should voice my feelings right here and then. Finding myself myself torn between sharing my feelings and maintaining the lighthearted atmosphere of the night.

"Lando, I li-", caught off guard by Luisa coming out, our attention turned to her. I guess she noticed that she was interrupting our conversation, her smile changed into a gasp.

"Baby", Lando called. Wrapping his arm around Luisa's waist tugging her closer, I couldn't help but scowl. "You were saying something?", Lando asked me. The sight of them cuddled up together made me want to barf. "Audrie?"

Refocusing, my eye lands on Lando's curious eyes. "Sorry..uhh...nothing. Just wanted to congratulate you again." Lando smiled, his arm still placed around her. "I'm gonna go in...bye."

Before he could say anything, I scurried back in and weaved myself around people while trying to keep the tears back. Bumping into Max right when a tear slid down my cheeks, his face showed worry. "Audrie, are you okay?"