The winding journey to the first race weekend following the summer break unfolded under a cloud-studded sky, the familiar hum of the F1 season guiding Eli's way. But instead of trailing the crimson banners of Ferrari, her path now traced the vibrant papaya-hued McLaren team. As the teams arrived in Belgium for the fast-approaching Dutch Grand Prix, the F1 community gathered for an esteemed gala charity dinner— a rare occasion of all 20 drivers under one roof outside of the racetrack. The event, a night of charitable endeavours and camaraderie, sparkled within a grand hall adorned with opulence. Chandeliers cast a warm glow over the venue as esteemed guests mingled— a blend of team representatives, sponsors, partners, and attendees, all impeccably attired. The drivers, typically adorned in their vibrant team colours and race suits, were now elegantly dressed for the occasion.
As Eli and Lando stepped into the splendid venue, Eli donned an elegant navy blue dress that gracefully swept the floor, accentuating her sophistication with subtle grace. Lando sported a sleek black suit, expertly tailored to complement his confident persona. Together, they traversed the bustling room, Lando exchanging pleasantries with key figures while Eli remained by his side, a comforting presence amidst the lively ambiance. In the midst of the soirée, they caught sight of Charles and Carlos engaged in conversation, both impeccably dressed in sharp suits that mirrored their distinct personalities. As they noticed Eli and Lando approaching, they playfully teased Eli about switching teams, jokingly suggesting that they couldn't talk to 'traitors' who had abandoned their previous team allegiances. "Look who decided to betray us!" Charles teased, nudging Eli with a grin. "I thought we were a team, Eli," Carlos added with a chuckle, feigning betrayal. Lando, flashing a grin, chimed in as he snaked his arm around Eli's waist, "Sorry boys, but she's going to be wearing orange from now on." Despite the banter, Charles' expression carried a genuine happiness at seeing Eli accompanying Lando, signalling his support for her decision to follow her heart.
The evening progressed, and guests took their seats, awaiting the commencement of the charity event. The seating arrangements for the gala had placed Ferrari with McLaren, putting the Ferrari duo with Lando and Eli at the same table, a coincidence that brought forth a mix of friendly banter and camaraderie among the rival teams. Yet, despite settling down, the expected start of the event seemed delayed. Conversations buzzed around the tables, the crowd growing restless as they awaited the evening's proceedings. Curiosity led Lando and Eli to exchange puzzled looks. It was apparent that something seemed amiss, prompting murmurs and puzzled glances among the group. Carlos, noticing their confusion, leaned over, and explained, "Overheard that there's a delay in the program; they're waiting on the pianist for the performance tonight." Just then, a figure approached their table, catching Charles' attention. An F1 executive, familiar with his occasional piano playing, approached him with an inquiring look. "Charles, we're in a bit of a spot; our scheduled pianist is a no-show. Any chance you could step in and fill the gap?" A bemused smile graced Charles's face as he shook his head, a light chuckle escaping him. "You must be joking! I tinker around, but I'm no professional. sorry." The executive nodded, understanding, and ready to walk away to come up with another plan. However, Charles perked up again, catching their attention, "But I may know of one who's here with us tonight..." and turned to Eli. Her eyes widening slightly at the unexpected attention. There was a moment of silent anticipation as everyone's gaze shifted toward her, awaiting her response. Lando placed his hand on her thigh, a reassuring touch that provided her with comfort, accompanied by his whispered encouragement, "You don't have to do it if you don't want to, Eli. Only if you feel up for it." Despite the nerves, she was seized by an impulse to seize the moment. I have to face it all eventually, so maybe it's time to face it head on, she thought to herself. With a determined resolve, she stood up from their table and followed the executive, stepping onto the stage where the grand piano awaited her.
As Eli took her place at the piano, the ambient buzz of conversation gradually dissipated, replaced by a hushed anticipation that spread throughout the ballroom. Whispers quietened into an attentive silence as curious gazes fixated on her. Among the crowd, crew members and drivers, familiar with her presence around the paddock, couldn't help but notice her now, completely unaware of her hidden talent as a pianist. Their intrigue added to the charged atmosphere, intensifying the focus on Eli and her impending performance. She lifted her hands and hesitantly placed them on the keys— they were shaking with nerves. Momentarily looking into the crowd, her gaze connected with Lando and Charles, both offering a supportive nod and a reassuring smile. In their eyes, she found encouragement, a silent affirmation that bolstered her confidence. "You've got this," Lando mouthed.
She turned back to the piano, closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and allowed the notes to flow. As Eli's fingers danced across the keys, a hush fell over the ballroom. The melody, a blend of elegance and emotion, filled the space, drawing everyone's attention. For a moment, she was lost in the music, the nerves fading as the chords resonated through the room. The piano became an extension of her being, and with each note, she poured her soul into the performance. As the final chord resonated and she concluded the piece, a momentary silence lingered before applause erupted. Stunned by what she'd just done, she froze momentarily. The realisation of what she had just accomplished slowly settled in, and with a radiant smile, she rose from the piano bench to take a modest bow.
"That's my girl!" Lando's exuberant voice pierce through the applause, his enthusiasm evident and Carlos, caught off guard, instinctively covered his mouth— the unexpected moment eliciting laughter from those nearby, amused by the outburst. The cheerful atmosphere that followed her performance was a testament to the resonance of her music, and it washed over Eli, filling her with a sense of fulfilment and accomplishment she hadn't anticipated.
As Eli returned to their table, she leaned in toward Lando. "I'm going to do it, I'm going to let my school know that I'll be returning," she whispered, her voice tinged with a mix of excitement and resolve. This revelation sparked a bright glow in Lando's eyes, a sense of happiness swirling within him. For Lando, witnessing Eli's passionate performance was akin to a revelation. The way she immersed herself in music, her eyes twinkling with passion, left an indelible mark on him. Watching someone else find such unadulterated joy in their craft, much like his own passion for driving, was a poignant experience. It was this genuine fulfilment he shared with Eli that triggered the darkening of another pearl on her bracelet, a sign of a fulfilled duty. Like what Charles had said to Eli at the start of it all, the essence of being a guardian angel wasn't solely about constant rescues. Lando's support for Eli and his burgeoning feelings toward her, his genuine care and encouragement, were enough to fulfil the role she was meant to play, embodying the essence of protection in various forms.
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Thread of Destiny | Lando Norris
Fanfiction"Why isn't there some sort of 'How to be a Guardian Angel 101' manual for this?" Eli groaned in frustration as she slumped down in her chair. -- In the tranquil embrace of Monaco's pre-season calm, an unexpected encounter between a girl lost in her...
