The Formula 1 Series - Part I: Liz & George

Celebrations

We got out of the car and checked each other once again. Sarah was definitely looking out if Elsa has already arrived with Charles, but we couldn't find them anywhere. We went inside the lobby and were guided to take the elevator into the penthouse. So we went up to the 17th floor and were stunned as soon as the elevator doors opened.

The music was intense, the whole floor was packed with people and as far as our view went – all walls were out of glass, meaning the view was stunning. Kind of like the first party we went to, though the dimensions here were completely different. There was a balcony wrapping around as well, but balcony was the wrong word. It was more like a roof top terrace or something like that. We made our way across the open floor where at least 50 people were dancing. We passed some couches before arriving at the kitchen slash bar. This floor seemed to have served as a penthouse before, but it clearly became an event location with a cozy twist to it. People were standing around in groups and leaning onto the kitchen counter. Between the kitchen island and the kitchen sink two bartenders ruled the space. We ordered our drinks and I got Tonic again. My mind wandered off to George. I thought of ordering something else solely because I don't want him to think I continue his little game with getting me Tonic. But I liked the bitter taste of it better than any softdrink. Plus, it was clear and most people just assumed I was drinking Gin Tonic when looking at it or even smelling the Tonic.

We went back into the main room and Sarah found Ryan and some Ferrari people including Carlos. She encouraged us to go over to their group and we made our way towards them.

"Congrats really! It was an amazing race to watch! And I am so happy you won it!" Sarah said while hugging Carlos. She didn't let go of him for a millisecond too long to be just friendly and he kept his left arm around her while saying thanks.

"Yes, great race! Congratulations to you and all of you basically." I looked around the mechanics. I mean this sport is a team effort and they deserve the wishes just like the drivers do.

"Yes, everyone is so happy how the race turned out. But Charles pit stop still gets us. I hope he will make it tonight." One of the mechanics said.

"I am certain he will come by and for sure he is having a great time"! Naomi shouted over the music and smirked. I kicked my elbow into her ribs but had to giggle as well.

I looked around. Apart from Carlos I haven't spotted many other drivers for now. One particularly I haven't seen yet. Both Alpha Tauri drivers were here and I thought to have seen Lando Norris as well. Gasly was around as well – I remember because he and Lando both seemed to not worry to much about their crash after the start. They both seemed to be perfectly content. Some other drivers might be here as well, but I did not really care. I haven't spotted George yet and I got more and more nervous. Maybe he is celebrating somewhere else? But if the winner of this grand prix made it here, it is the party of the night, right? Though Verstappen hasn't made an appearance either ... Perez and Hamilton probably won't show I guessed. They seem to be too mature to go to these kind of parties.

"Let's do some shot, ladies!" Ryan said and everyone started moving to the kitchen again. We passed the lounge area again and then I saw him. He was sitting in a corner with a group of men and girls. They had a bucket with ice and vodka in it on the coffee table in front of them. He seemed to not notice me and clearly was busy as he was the center of attention for the entire group. Especially the girls it seemed. In general I have noticed a lot more women being around tonight. I felt some weird piercing feeling somewhere in my stomach and turned away. I just hoped he hasn't seen me starring at his group. I tried to hide behind Naomi, but since I was the tallest of us girls and Naomi the shortest it is as effective as an elephant trying to hide behind a tree.

I was relieved we made it to the kitchen or the bar, however you want to put it. I declined getting a shot but watched the others take theirs and proposing to Carlos. I noticed Carlos and Sarah clinking glasses twice and started smiling again. We stood around one edge of the kitchen island for a while and most of the men got new drinks. I wanted to stay here as long as possible since going back to the dance area mean we had to pass the couches. Though Georges corner was more looking into the direction of the dance floor, I didn't want to go past there and him noticing me while he had all those girls around. But on the other hand, I wanted him to know I am around right? Arrgh, I didn't know what my problem was. I sure didn't want him to see me noticing him with all those girls around him. My head felt like it would explode any second. I sighted.