Invisible string (lestappen)

Chapter 15 : Max

'Mateeee. Are you still on for tonight ?'

I stare at the message Lando just sent me. Fuck. I completely forgot about that. We planned on going out together after the race a few days ago.

I remember the excitement I felt when we discussed it. Back when I thought the only thing that would occur tonight would be me possibly becoming a third-time world champion. I would've never imagined I would get dumped right after. And that it'd make me feel so much like shit.

I've been thinking for the past hour. Reflecting on everything that happened between us. On the things I could've done better. On how I should have been acting towards her. Guilt building up in my mind.

I sigh to myself.

I can't just stay here all night reminiscing about the past. Or the breakup. It'll just make me feel even worse than I already do. And I won the world championship for fuck sake. I've worked so hard for it, I deserve to celebrate it.

Even if it's the only thing in my life I should feel happy about right now.

'Yes. What time ?', I type.

His answer arrives in the second.

'10 pm ?'

'I'll be there'

I put my phone back in my pocket.

Guess I'm going out tonight.

•••

I join Lando at the nightclub around 10.15 pm. Feeling a bit less down than a few minutes ago. The long shower I took probably being the reason why. It helped me clear my mind a little bit, which was definitely needed.

'So how are you feeling ? I can't believe she broke up with you. You guys seemed really happy'

I sat next to him on a fancy couch in the vip section of the club. We're used to reserving it when we come here. It allows us to have a bit of privacy when we just want to talk around a few drinks. I'm grateful for it now more than ever. Not really liking the idea of someone hearing about the news. I need to digest it myself before it gets into the hands of the whole world.

I told Lando about it earlier when I was getting ready. Firstly, because he knows me so I knew I wouldn't be able to hide it from him. Secondly, because I kind of needed to tell it to someone. To get it out of my chest.

'Like shit to be honest. But it is what it is, we've been acting distant for quite a while'

He listens attentively while sipping on his Martini.

'I'm sorry mate. You know I'm here if you need to talk'

'I know you are. But tonight, it's not about that. I want to celebrate my world championship in the best way possible'

I force a smile.

He doesn't seem convinced but gives me an energetic tap on the shoulder nevertheless.

'Don't worry about that. You'll have so much fun it won't even cross your mind anymore'

Deep down, I pray for his words to become true. I don't want to think about it anymore. I wish I had an on-and-off button on my brain. To give myself a break. Because right here, right now, I want to have fun. To celebrate my achievements with my friends.