fast lane - c.leclerc

chapter fifteen

LAUREN

'LAUREN WHAT DID I tell you? Don't post irrationally on the internet. I asked only that of you. You're making my job a nightmare,' Lauren held her phone away from her ear. Zara's shrieking was making her go deaf. Her PR manager had gone mad after photos of the driver had leaked.

'I'm a grown woman, Zara. The press are like eagles. Same old story,' Lauren complained, wishing for the phone call to be over as she strolled through the busy streets of London.

'A grown woman doesn't go out with visible hickeys on her neck,'

'Look, I know the situation isn't optimal but-,'

'You're putting it very lightly, Lauren. You're trending for your hickeys rather than your first-ever win!'

'You know what? I'm sick of this. I'm visiting my home to get some rest before the next race. I truly don't care what people on the internet say about me. If they are bonkers enough to ignore my performance simply because I had some reckless fun, it's their problem. I will write a statement in which I deny it is Charles and send it to you. You can check it and post it. For now, I want to thank you for everything you do for me because I truly am grateful for you, but I've had enough of this,'

Zara sighed. 'I can't even be mad at you. Enjoy your time at home. We'll fix this,'

Lauren bid Zara goodbye. This was exactly what Christian had warned her about. She hadn't seen Charles since the incident. He'd texted her a few times, but she didn't reply. She couldn't put the entire blame on him, as she was the one who didn't think of properly covering her neck. It seemed like a good plan to distance herself from him until the rumours died down. 

Walking the streets of London brought her a certain peace that no other city could ever grant her. The city was packed with tourists and everyone just minded their own business. She typed away furiously in her notes app, carefully crafting a statement that would shut everyone up.

Dear all,

I am writing this statement with utter disappointment. I can't believe that I have to justify myself. After winning the Spanish GP, I celebrated with my friends. I had a lot of fun that night and don't regret my actions. I am aware that hickeys are not classy. There's no need to remind me of it. Also, if you are butthurt about me getting some, clearly you are the problem.

'No, I can't write this,' groaned Lauren to herself, pressing backspace and deleting it all.

She shut off her phone, but before she got the chance to put it away, it started ringing again.

'You miss me already?' Zara's call alarmed her. Why would she possibly call again? 

'Darling, I have news that you probably won't like,'

'Tell me,'

'How fast can you get to Milton Keynes?'

'I have plans to get dinner with my mom tonight,'

'Christian wants you to cancel them. He scheduled a meeting with Fred regarding the entire situation. I know it's last minute, but he has a proposal for you that will finally allow you some peace,'

Lauren sighed. 'Fine, I'll cancel. Let me just go get my car. I'll be there in two hours tops,'

CHARLES

Charles was not amused. Not at all. Lauren had been ignoring him after he jokingly left hickeys on her neck. It was a foolish prank. She was the one stupid enough to walk around flaunting the evidence in public. This was a common occurrence for them. They fought, made out and then fought about something stupid again. It was embarrassing for both of them. Two adults acting like toddlers.