Until my last breath

7

May 2022
Mykonos, Greece.

The sun hangs low in the azure sky as I step out onto the terrace of our villa in Mykonos, the salty breeze tousling my hair. The scent of sun-kissed skin and sea spray fills the air, reminding me that this is exactly what I needed after the whirlwind of the last few months. It's hard to believe that just a few days ago, I was back in Barcelona, unpacking my suitcase . Now, I'm here, surrounded by my friends, enjoying a much-needed getaway.

Today is a boat trip, a chance to escape from responsibilities and soak in the beauty of the Aegean Sea. I'm wearing a white, flowing sundress that dances above my knees, its light fabric perfect for the warm sun. The neckline is adorned with delicate lace, and I can feel the warmth of the sun on my bare shoulders.

"Ree!" Alex calls out, waving me over. "You ready for some fun in the sun?"

"Absolutely." I reply, trying to match her enthusiasm, though I can't shake the weight that seems to linger in my chest, the guilt of coming here.

"Got the sunscreen?" Charles asks, raising an eyebrow. "I know you, you'll forget it and come back looking like a lobster."

I chuckle, rolling my eyes playfully. "I've got it covered. Don't worry about me." I pull the small bottle from my beach bag, showing it to them. "Ready to hit the waves."

We board the sleek boat, and I can't help but admire the stunning views of the coast as we set off. The turquoise waters sparkle under the sun, and I feel a rush of excitement course through me. The engine roars to life, and soon we're gliding over the water, the wind whipping through my hair, laughter ringing in the air.

As we anchor near a secluded cove, I dive into the refreshing sea, the cool water enveloping me like a long-lost friend. I surface, gasping for air, and turn to see Alex and Kika joining me. Kika, who's wearing a hot pink bikini, flashes me a bright smile before diving under the waves, her long hair trailing behind her like a mermaid.

"Last one in pays for dinner today!" Arthur shouts, and we all take off, splashing and laughing, enjoying the freedom that the water brings. It's moments like this that remind me how vital it is to escape the pressures of racing, the constant expectations weighing on my shoulders.

After what feels like hours of swimming, we finally pull ourselves back onto the boat, breathless and exhilarated. I shake the water from my hair, looking around at the blissful faces of my friends. Pierre sits at the edge, tossing Maverick a treat while Alex and Kika talk about their plans for the evening.

"I can't believe we're finally here," Alex says, grinning. "This is just what we needed."

"Agreed," I reply, feeling a warmth inside. "It's nice to just relax and not think about racing for a bit."

As the sun beats down on the deck, I lean back into the plush cushions of the boat, soaking in the warmth of the Greek sun. My skin is already kissed by the day's earlier swim, a light bronze deepening with each passing hour. Alex's voice draws my attention as she lounges beside me, shades perched on the bridge of her nose as she recounts, yet again, the story of how she and Charles first met. It's one we've all heard before, but something about the way she tells it always makes it sound like the first time.

"So there I was, standing by the garage, not even realizing it was him. I mean, can you believe it?" Alex's laugh is contagious, and I can't help but chuckle along with her, even though I've heard this exact tale a dozen times. I tilt my head, shading my eyes with my hand as I glance at her, the wind ruffling her brown hair.

Kika chimes in, eyes wide with mock seriousness. "I still don't understand how you didn't know it was him. I mean, it's the Charles Leclerc." She waves a hand in his general direction, where the boys are huddled near the helm, discussing something animatedly that I don't quite catch.