One Shots | Formula 1

LN♥

"Do you ever find it overwhelming?"

I stood in front of the mirror, taking in my reflection. The excitement bubbling within me was undeniable, but beneath it, a thread of academic curiosity wove its way through. Tonight was my first date with Lando Norris, the racing driver—something that had transpired quite unexpectedly. I smoothed down the sleek lines of my dress, a balance between sophistication and a touch of Monaco chic, and took a deep breath.

Lando and I had crossed paths during my research stint in Monaco. As a sociologist working on my PhD, I had found myself delving into the lives of the ultra-rich, seeking to understand the intricacies of their world. It was during one of those nights, amid the glitz and glamour of a party overlooking the Mediterranean, that our paths first intersected.

His easy smile and disarming charm had drawn me in effortlessly. We had conversed about everything from the opulent lifestyle of Monaco's elite to the high-stakes world of Formula 1 racing. Lando's passion for his craft was infectious, and as the night unfolded, it seemed as though we were just two people connecting in a sea of extravagance.

And now, here I was, preparing for a date that could potentially lead to so much more. I chuckled softly to myself, considering the serendipity of it all. Even if our date tonight turned out differently than I hoped, it would undoubtedly offer me invaluable insights for my research—perhaps a peek into the personal lives of those at the zenith of societal hierarchy.

I reached for my favorite perfume, a subtle yet lingering scent that always made me feel confident. As I dabbed it behind my ears, my thoughts wandered back to Lando. What was he expecting from this evening? Was it merely a casual outing for him, or did he, too, feel a spark between us?

Despite my excitement, a flutter of nerves danced in my stomach. This wasn't just any first date—it was a rendezvous with a man whose life epitomized speed, thrill, and a world far removed from the academic corridors where I usually found myself. The contrast was thrilling, to say the least.

I touched up my makeup, opting for a soft, natural look. Tonight wasn't about impressing with extravagance; it was about genuine connection. A glance at the clock reminded me that it was almost time to leave.

A sleek sports car pulled up in front of my hotel, and I couldn't help but grin as I recognized Lando behind the wheel. The low purr of the engine hinted at the power beneath the hood, matching the thrill of anticipation that coursed through me. I stepped out into the evening air, my heart quickening with each stride toward him.

"Hey there," Lando greeted me with that infectious smile of his, his eyes twinkling with genuine delight. "You look amazing."

"Thanks," I replied, feeling a rush of warmth at his compliment. "You clean up pretty well yourself."

He chuckled, a sound that resonated with the same ease I had come to associate with him. "Ready for our little adventure tonight?"

"Absolutely," I said, slipping into the passenger seat. As Lando revved the engine and we glided onto the coastal road, the moonlight dancing on the waves below, conversation flowed effortlessly between us. We talked about everything and nothing, the words bouncing back and forth in a playful rhythm.

Yet, despite the natural camaraderie, a tiny voice whispered in the back of my mind. Was this date meant to be a grand showcase of Lando's world? The car, the impeccable timing, the effortless charm—each element felt meticulously curated, almost as if I were being treated to a glimpse of his life rather than an intimate evening.

I shook off the thought, reminding myself that Lando was, after all, a Formula 1 driver—a world where every move was a performance, both on and off the track. Perhaps this was simply his way of making an impression, sharing a piece of his world with someone he found intriguing.