Petrol in his Veins // Charles Leclerc

26

we don't speak about COTA. COTA never happened

________________________________

Charles navigated the car through the streets as he drove to the hotel. Beside him, Jolie gently stroked his thigh, her eyes fixed on the road, but her mind on him. Her heart raced a tad faster thinking about the day's events, but she knew he needed his quiet time now. 

Upon reaching the hotel, they were greeted by the familiar face of Pierre, casually standing in the lobby with a radiant smile on his lips. The trio headed together towards the elevator, a familiar ritual since their rooms were right next to each other. 

"How about joining us for dinner later? Danny thought we could meet in the lobby around 8 PM and head to the little restaurant around the corner," Pierre suggested as they waited. Charles glanced questioningly at Jolie, who nodded in agreement. "If you're okay with it, I'm in." Pierre laughed. "You two can be so cute sometimes." Jolie lifted an eyebrow and chuckled. "That's bold coming from you. You and Kika are the textbook definition of 'teenage sweethearts'," she teased. Pierre grinned slyly. "I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about, J!" he cheekily answered before disappearing into his room.

Charles vanished into the bathroom, and shortly after, the sound of the shower could be heard. Jolie took the opportunity to lose herself in her Instagram feed, pondering over which dress she should pick for the evening. The bathroom door swung open, revealing a wet-haired Charles, clad only in a towel wrapped around his waist. She couldn't help but stare for a moment, captivated by the droplets falling from his hair and the contrast of his sun-tanned skin against the white towel. A soft sigh escaped her lips before she stood up and leaned in to give him a gentle kiss. She cherished the fact that this sight was exclusively hers. "My turn," she whispered with a mischievous smile, darting into the bathroom. Charles grinned and playfully rolled his eyes.

While she stood under the warm shower, her thoughts kept returning to Charles. She thought about how he often tried to appear strong even when he was internally struggling. How, despite everything he had been through, he did his best to remain positive. She wasn't sure if she'd be able to wake up in the morning and be in good spirits after experiencing so many setbacks. But Charles was simply resilient. Jolie often took inspiration from him, especially when she stumbled across a negative comment or the like about herself online. If Charlie could enjoy life, then surely she could too!

After she was done, she stepped into the bedroom and noticed Charles, deeply engrossed in his phone, repeatedly watching a TikTok video. After a while, she realized he had dozed off with the phone still in his hand. Gently, she took it away, closed the app, and observed him for a moment.

She sat beside him on the bed, tenderly stroking his neck. Charles Leclerc was definitely the love of her life. A man full of strength yet so sensitive. He had overcome so many challenges and still never lost his zest for life. She was determined to stand by his side and support him through all ups and downs. Because he deserved nothing but the best.

Jolie briefly looked at Charles, who was peacefully sleeping on the bed, and decided to use the quiet moment to get ready for dinner. She pulled out a simple, black silk dress from her suitcase. The dress had thin straps, flowed loosely over her silhouette, and ended just above her ankles. It was elegant yet comfortable, perfect for a relaxed evening.

She sat in front of the mirror and began brushing her hair. Her long, brown hair cascaded over her shoulders. She pondered whether to leave it open or tie it into a loose ponytail. Ultimately, she opted for a casual, low bun, leaving some strands out to frame her face.

Jolie opened her makeup pouch and decided on a subtle look. A light sweep of bronzer on her cheeks, some mascara, and a delicate lipstick in a warm nude shade. A small spritz of her favorite perfume, and she was nearly done.