SO AMERICAN | max verstappen

one.

March 2022

"Ri, do you have a moment?"

I had been relaxing on the balcony of my family's vacation home in Monaco when Taylor Greene, my PR manager, called. I didn't want to answer, not wanting to hear about another bad press article from a stupid incident on tour, but I knew it would only result in her spamming my phone.

"For you? Of course, my love." I did truly adore Taylor, I just didn't enjoy when she hounded me for my 'bad attitude.'

"How fast can you get to Monaco?"

What did she want from me? "Uh, I'm in Monaco?"

She let out a sigh which only made me nervous. Taylor sighing was never an indication of something good. "That's good to hear. I have a contract you need to sign for something related to PR and the meeting is happening in Monte Carlo this evening."

My eyes widened, "Well, shit, Tay! Does that mean you're here?" I sat up straight, my heart rate increasing. I hate spontaneity.

"I know, I know, I'm sorry. I only received confirmation of the meeting 30 minutes ago. But yes, well... I will be, I'm in my Uber from Nice."

"Are we going to this meeting together?" I questioned as I walked back into the house, heading for my room to find an outfit that could potentially be appropriate for the meeting. I didn't really pack any business-y outfits.

"Of course, Ri. I'm your manager, Babe." she laughed, "Now get your pretty ass changed and into something appropriate."

"Already on it."

We bid each other goodbye and ended the call. I groaned, loudly, I so didn't want to abandon my relaxing Monaco vacation for a meeting, but duty calls, I guess?

I searched through all of my clothes and nothing.

Giving up, I knew I needed to go shopping. There was only one person I knew who lived in Monaco who knew all of the best places to shop.

"Bonjour mon amour. To what do I owe the pleasure?" I'm so glad Pascale always had her phone on her.

I tucked my phone between my face and shoulder, freeing my hands to pack my suitcase. "Are you home today?"

"Yes, ma'am. Are you here?"

"I am! I'd love to get a meal or something, but I need a favor..."

"Shopping? I'll be there in 10."

I had to resist cheering. "You're an angel! I love you."

"I love you too, be waiting at the curb."

The call ended and I was quick to finish packing. When Pascale tells you to be ready in 10, you're ready in 10. She only knows fast and efficient.

I slid on the most inconspicuous outfit I had and grabbed my purse, making my way outside so I could be ready. Right on time, Pascale pulled up and I hopped in the passenger seat, leaning over to press a kiss to her cheek.

"Sorry that this is all I called you for. Taylor sprung a meeting on me and I've got nothing to wear."

She waved me off, "You're family, Riley, me and my boys love you. You know I'd drop anything for you, mon amour."

About 10 or so minutes later, we pulled into a car park by a row of shops. "Did you know the boys are home between pre-season testing runs, maybe try to meet up with them while you're here?" Pascale mused as we got out of the car, walking by my side toward the shops.