Left Behind

Canada

In the following days, Max and Charles maintained a cautious equilibrium, both aware that the revelation had opened a new chapter in their relationship—one marked by uncharted emotions and unspoken promises. Charles, still grappling with the resurgence of long-buried feelings, found solace in the routine of his days in Monaco.

Max, who was due to leave for the next Grand Prix, tried to keep things as normal as possible. The racing world demanded his attention, and while Charles lingered in the periphery of his thoughts, the demands of the sport prevailed. They continued their nightly calls, each conversation carrying an undercurrent of the unspoken.

On one particular evening, Max found himself in the Red Bull motorhome, surrounded by the familiar faces of his team. The hum of preparation for the upcoming race created a backdrop of organized chaos. His phone buzzed, indicating Charles' call, and he excused himself to step into a quieter corridor.

"Hey," Max greeted, trying to sound casual despite the anticipation that lingered in the air.

"Hey," Charles replied, his voice carrying a blend of warmth and uncertainty. "How's everything over there?"

"Same old, same old," Max chuckled, leaning against the corridor wall. "You know how it is. But I was thinking... after this race, there's a week break before the next one. Maybe we could catch up? I've been missing you."

Charles hesitated for a moment before responding, "I'd like that. It sounds good."

As the conversation unfolded, they settled on the idea of Charles visiting Monaco during the break. The prospect of spending time together outside the confines of their routine brought a mix of excitement and trepidation. They decided to take it one step at a time, navigating the delicate balance between their undeniable connection and the complexities they carried.

The week passed in a blur of race preparations, media engagements, and the constant hum of the Formula 1 world. As Max stood on the podium, accepting the trophy for another successful race, the excitement was palpable. But amid the cheers and celebrations, a quiet longing for the moments beyond the racetrack lingered.

Charles, too, observed the race from afar, contemplating the prospect of being with Max during the upcoming break. The uncertainty still clung to his heart, but a flicker of anticipation ignited a spark of hope. The following days would bring the promise of connection, a chance to explore the depth of their feelings away from the scrutiny of the racing world.

And so, with the Grand Prix behind him and the prospect of a shared hiatus on the horizon, Max prepared to welcome Charles into his world, hopeful that the time they spent together would illuminate the path forward, offering clarity in the midst of their intertwined emotions.

______________

June 10th, 2028

Max's POV

The Canadian Grand Prix had left Max with a mixed bag of emotions. While the race itself had been demanding, the prospect of Charles joining him in Monaco after the upcoming break offered a refreshing change. Max found himself in the bustling Montreal airport, his eyes fixed on the arrival gate, awaiting Charles' presence.

As the passengers disembarked, Max's anticipation grew with each passing moment. He checked his phone for any updates from Charles, a smile playing on his lips as he saw a message confirming the arrival.

"Hey, Max. Just landed. See you soon."

Max's heart quickened at the message. He couldn't shake the excitement bubbling within him, the prospect of reuniting with Charles after all this time. He made his way towards the gate, unable to suppress the grin that tugged at his lips.