Race & Rally // Charles Leclerc

17.00

David is returning the ball to me at lightening speed, as I practice multiple backhands with a few random forehands thrown in. This rally has been going on for a total of six minutes, one of the longest we've had yet.

I decide to move up the court, putting pressure on David as he hits the ball back to me. I attempt a drop shot, letting out a scream of frustration as it lands outside of the court.

"When will you learn Aria? I'm just better than you," jokes David, spinning his racket around in his hand.

"Try and win four grand slams then?" I reply, sticking my tongue out at him. He laughs at the my expression.

"Good session today. Obviously we'll do more stamina work tomorrow alright?" he mentions as I begin to pack up. His phone buzzes, and I watch as a smile grows on his face.

"Is that Thomas?" I ask in a teasing manner.

"None of your business," he mutters sarcastically, but it's clear as day that it's from him.

Thomas, the man from the airport, had finally asked David out while I was spending my week in Monaco with Charles. It's clear that he's smitten and seems happier than ever. However, that doesn't make him go any easier on me during training.

It's now my turn for my phone to go off. I pick it up from the bench and see that Charles has texted me.

-

Charles
Just after a block of training
How are things with you right now?

Aria
Same here
Also I'm free for the Spanish Grand Prix if you want to send me tickets ;)

Charles
No way
Now it's gonna be so much better than I ever could've imagined

Aria
It's definitely going to be fun
It's ok if David and Thomas come too right?

Charles
Of course
Can't wait to see you Summers ;)

Aria
We have to be careful because of the media remember

Charles
How could I forget
They're becoming so persistent with me now because of my last few wins

Aria
Don't lie you love the attention

Charles
Ok maybe I do
Just a little bit

-

Spain had captured my heart from the moment I set foot in it. I had my first tournament here when I was seventeen. I could never get enough of it, and neither could David, which is why he gave in to letting me go to the race so easily.

We had gotten there earlier in the week, reserving a tennis court to train. We had also cycled most of the area while Thomas sunbathed on the beach.

It's the first time I have seen Thomas and David in day to day life, and no doubt that they're made for each other. Thomas is so sweet, the perfect amount to balance out David's strictness.

The media has already spotted me in a few areas, raising the important question of if I'm attending another race. They are all eager to know what is taking me to these races, especially this one, as I don't have a tournament to attend here this time. This means I have to be extra careful with who I'm seen speaking to.