Red past | Charles Leclerc

Victory

Three days passed in a blur of anxious anticipation. Every moment felt like an eternity as I waited for my appointment with the doctor. Charles remained by my side, still offering support and encouragement no matter how unwanted it was.

Finally, the day arrived. I sat in the waiting room, my leg bouncing nervously as I flipped through a magazine that had been laying open on the table when we sat down, my mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the upcoming race. Charles was sat beside me, his presence a calming influence amidst the whirlwind of emotions swirling within me.

When my name was called, I rose from my seat, my heart pounding in my chest. Both me and Charles entered the doctor's office together, the air thick with tension.

The doctor greeted us with a warm smile, sensing the apprehension in the room. He wasted no time in conducting a thorough examination, carefully reviewing my medical history and recent progress.

After what felt like an eternity, he finally looked up from his notes, his expression thoughtful yet hopeful.

"Anika, based on the results of your examination and the progress you've made in your recovery, I think its safe to say that I can clear you for the race," he announced, a hint of pride in his voice.

Relief flooded through me, a weight lifting from my shoulders as I let out a breath I didn't realize I had been holding. A broad smile spread across my face, mirrored by Charles' own expression of joy and pride.

"Thank you, Doctor," I said, my voice filled with gratitude.

He nodded, his eyes reflecting confidence in my ability to be able to do well despite my recent injury.

As we left the doctor's office, I felt a renewed sense of determination coursing through my veins. With Charles by my side and the doctor's clearance in hand, I knew that nothing could stand in the way of me winning this race, directing me to the end of the season while leading the championship.

Charles grabbed my hand, interlocking our fingers and smiling down at me. The news was positive— I was cleared to race. It felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders, a heavy burden I had been carrying since the accident. My heart swelled with greatfullness towards the doctor who was able to clear me without a second thought.

Back home, I wasted no time in contacting my team to share the good news. Their response was one of pure happiness and support, further fueling my determination to make my comeback a success.

In the days leading up to the race, I threw myself into training, pushing my body to its limits making sure that I was 100% ready for what was to come.

~

As the day of the race dawned, a mix of nerves and excitement coursed through me. Waiting at the starting grid, starting 7th after a red flag ended qualifying early, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of the racing world, I felt a sense of belonging wash over me.

When the lights above the starting line blinked to life, my heart raced with anticipation. With a deep breath, I focused my mind, blocking out all distractions as I prepared to give it my all on the track.

As the race began, I pushed myself to the limit, navigating each turn and straight with precision. Lap after lap, I fought my way to the front and successfully fought back the rest of the pack, refusing to let anything stand in my way.

As I crossed the finish line, the checkered flag waving triumphantly overhead, a flood of emotions washed over me. Tears of joy filled my eyes as I climbed out of my car, the roar of the crowd enveloping me in a wave of euphoria.

Standing on the podium, the winner's trophy held high above my head, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. This race was more than just a victory.

As I looked out at the sea of faces cheering me on, I knew that this was only the beginning of a new chapter in my racing career. With Charles by my side and the support of my team behind me, the future held endless possibilities, each one more exhilarating than the last.

Looking out into the crowd, seeing the faces of admiration and respect but it was Charles' and Max's eyes that held the most significance as they looked up at me with pride. Charles' silent affirmation making me shiver as the sides of my mouth lifted into a slight grin. He winked at me, making me chuckle to myself, catching the attention of the two boys at the side of me.

As the celebrations continued around me, my heart still racing with the thrill of victory. But amidst the chaos and excitement of the moment, one thought lingered in the back of my mind—this was just the beginning, I had a lot more to do before I would be officially the champion.

I descended from the podium, still clutching the winner's trophy in my hands, I was immediately surrounded by a swarm of journalists and photographers eager to capture the moment. Flashes popped and microphones were thrust in my direction as I made my way through the crowd, answering questions and thanking my fans.

Charles walked beside me, a proud smile lighting up his face as he fielded questions of his own. His presence was a source of comfort amidst the chaos, his steady gaze and reassuring touch grounding me in the midst of the whirlwind of excitement.

Once the interviews were finally over, Max appeared at my side, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "Hey, sis," he said, slinging an arm around my shoulders. "How about we go out and celebrate your victory?"

I laughed, the adrenaline still coursing through my veins. "I'd love to," I replied, the prospect of letting loose and enjoying the moment sounding better than ever.

With Charles and Max by my side, we made our way to the media pen, preparing for the bombardment of questions, we exchanged looks before going our separate ways.