I Care ~ Lando Norris

Chapter 23: The Man's Melody: Revelations At Sea

Lando hesitated before speaking, "There's something you need to know. The team just received information that your dad is here"

My heart sank at Lando's words. The mention of my estranged father sent a chill down my spine, reopening wounds that I had carefully guarded over the years. Memories of a painful past resurfaced, threatening to overshadow the triumph of the race.

"Lan, what do you mean? My dad hasn't been a part of my life for years," I stammered, trying to make sense of the unexpected revelation.

He looked at me with a mix of concern and empathy. "I understand, Bella. But he's here, at the paddock. The team noticed him during the race, and security is handling the situation. I thought you should know."

The news hit me like a wave, and I felt a swirl of emotions, fear, anger, and a profound sadness. My relationship with my father had been tumultuous, marked by his abusive behavior and a painful decision to cut ties for my own well-being.

Trying to steady my voice, I asked, "Why is he here? What does he want?"

Lando shook his head, his expression reflecting the gravity of the situation. "We're not sure, but security is ensuring he doesn't approach you or cause any trouble. I just thought it was best you were informed."

The McLaren garage, once filled with jubilation, now felt like a refuge amid the storm. Oscar joined us, sensing the shift in the atmosphere. "Isabella, we've got your back. If you need anything, let us know."

Grateful for their support, I nodded, the weight of the revelation settling on my shoulders. I excused myself from the garage, needing a moment to collect my thoughts. As I walked through the paddock, the vibrant surroundings blurred into a haze, my mind racing with questions and fears.

Finding a quiet spot, I took a deep breath, trying to ground myself. The distant hum of engines served as a reminder of the world I loved, the world that had provided an escape from the painful chapters of my past. Yet, the past had a way of resurfacing when least expected.

My phone buzzed with a message. It was from Charles.

"Isabella, where are you? We heard about dad. We're here for you."

Touched by my brothers' concern, I replied, "I'm near the McLaren garage. Thanks, Charles. I'll come to you in a moment."

As I approached the Ferrari garage, Charles and Arthur greeted me with understanding eyes. No words were exchanged, but the unspoken support was palpable. We stood together, facing the challenges that had unexpectedly emerged on this race day.

In the midst of the uncertainty, Charles placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Isabella, we'll handle this together. Your safety is our priority."

Charles, Arthur, and I huddled together, strategizing the best approach to handle my father's unexpected appearance.

Just as we prepared to face the inevitable confrontation, a surprising figure emerged from the crowd, a familiar face that brought both astonishment and relief. It was Zak, McLaren's CEO.

"Isabella," he said, urgency in his voice, "I overheard some conversations. Your father didn't come here to reconcile or support you. He's been talking to the media, planning to exploit the situation for his gain."

Shock and disbelief washed over me. The complexity of the situation deepened as I realized the potential damage my father could inflict not just on my personal life but on the carefully crafted image in the racing world.

As we absorbed this new twist, Zak continued, "Lando, Oscar and the McLaren team have offered to issue a joint statement with you. We can address the situation, control the narrative, and protect your privacy."