FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS

ABU DHABI GP 2023

AUTHOR POV

It was the last race of the year. The streets near the circuit were bustling with fans from various countries, all excited to watch their favorite drivers and teams one last time before they take a long break and get ready for the next season.

It was an evening race, and the circuit was glowing with fans all around, supporting their favorite teams. Max looked around, searching for a particular someone, hoping to get a glance before he stepped into the car. He was going to drive the RB19 one last time at this track. It was the perfect car he could have ever had, and he had often said, "It is the most successful car in my career."

And it was 100% true. This car felt like a part of him—everything about it was just right. He couldn't believe this would be the last time he would ever drive it. He was incredibly thankful and grateful to the team for building such a great car. It was almost as if the car was built around him. Thanks to this car and his talent, they were able to win 19 Grand Prix in a single season, breaking a record.

Max sighed, unable to find Charles, as he reluctantly sat in the car. The race would start in five minutes. The race began, and Max managed to secure his pole position in turn 1. It was tough, but it was something he could handle. As the cars raced around the circuit, drivers showed their abilities and talents through overtaking maneuvers.

In the final lap, Max took one last lap around the circuit, driving each corner with speed and precision. Just like that, he passed the checkered flag. He parked the car in front of the first-place board and sat there for a few seconds, feeling the car as his eyes teared up. He got up slowly and went towards his team members. They congratulated him, and Horner hugged him before he went towards his dad.

His dad came to the race, of course. He wouldn't miss his son's race, him winning his third championship. Max actually didn't know if he could even call him his dad. Well, if he was being honest, he was here just because of his father, but that didn't mean he should still accept his dad's nonsense about his life. As his dad congratulated him, Max muttered a 'thanks.'

After that, he went towards Kelly. Their relationship—well, to put it in two words—it isn't going well. He didn't know why; it just happened naturally. For a few months, they slowly drifted apart, starting with not meeting each other anymore, not going on dates. He would only see her when she came to the races, but he still hung out with P when Kelly went out. She asked him to look after P, and those were the only messages they sent each other these days.

"At 7 pm," Kelly messaged.

"I'll be there," Max replied.

Well, it's not like it mattered to either of them. It didn't even bother him. Maybe he was just out of love. Things happen—you can't just go back and change them; you should accept them and move on.

She kissed him on the cheek and congratulated him. As he picked up Penelope, she congratulated him too. He smiled, said thank you, and kissed her on the forehead before heading for the interview and podium. Just as he was wiping his sweat with a towel, Charles came towards him to congratulate him. He winked at Max, which, although unsuccessful, still made something flip in his stomach. He felt his cheeks burn and hoped the post-race flush would save him.

"Thanks, mate," Max said as Charles nodded.

"Congratulations to you for P2. I know it was not ideal, but—"

"Well then, Max, you should have given me some space and less defense. Then I could have zoomed past you," Charles said, leaning in.

Max froze, his breathing stopped. Charles was too close to him; he could feel his hot breath on his neck. He didn't know what to say; he was just stuck.