Chapter Thirty Five - The Paparazzi

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P1: Carlos Sainz
P2: Charles Leclerc
P3: Anastasia Henderson
P4: Max Verstappen
P5: Sergio Pérez
P6: Lewis Hamilton
P7: Lando Norris
P8: Valtteri Bottas
P9: George Russell
P10: Logan Sargeant
P11: Fernando Alonso
P12: Zhou Guanyu
P13: Yuki Tsunoda
P14: Nico Hülkenberg
P15: Kevin Magnussen
P16: Esteban Ocon
P17: Lance Stroll (DNS)
P18: Alex Albon (DNF)
P19: Pierre Gasly (DNF)
P20: Daniel Ricciardo (DNF)

As we sat at the cosy restaurant, the clinking of crockery and the soft murmur of conversation surrounding us, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. The tension of the Hungarian Grand Prix had melted away, replaced by the comfort of Charles' presence beside me.

I took a sip of my wine, gathering my thoughts before delving into the conversation about Christian's proposal. "So, Christian basically offered me a spot on the Red Bull team." I began, keeping my voice low to ensure our conversation remained private. "He said he believes in my talent and wants to give me a chance to prove myself."

Charles raised an eyebrow, concern flickering in his eyes. "What? That's... unexpected, to say the least. After everything that's happened between you two."

I nodded, swirling the wine in my glass absentmindedly. "Exactly. That's why I'm so hesitant. I don't know if I can trust him, or if there's some hidden agenda behind his offer."

He reached across the table, squeezing my hand gently. "I understand, Ana. But you have to consider the opportunity. Red Bull is a top-tier team, and this could be your chance to really make a name for yourself."

I sighed, feeling torn between my reservations and the allure of the opportunity. "I know. It's just... hard to shake off the past. But I appreciate your support, as always."

He smiled reassuringly, his eyes warm with affection. "I'll stand by you no matter what you decide, ma chérie. Just promise me you'll take some time to think it over before making a decision."

I returned his smile, feeling grateful for his unwavering support. "I promise, Charles. I'll make sure it's the right choice for me."

I grinned at him, suddenly feeling my cheeks grow flushed. "I must say, you look very handsome tonight, Charlie. I've got to take a picture of you!"

I turned my phone screen towards Charles so that he could see the picture

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I turned my phone screen towards Charles so that he could see the picture. "Look how cute you are!"

"I look so young!" Charles exclaimed, wafting his chopsticks in the air in an act of protest.

I frowned at him, playfully sticking out my bottom lip. "Sshhh. Adorable."

We continued eating in a comfortable silence. It was a relief to finally be able to go out in public together. The public found out about our relationship because of my reaction to Charles' crash, which did nothing but incite me with anxiety. However, it at least brought one positive.

𝙾𝚛𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚊𝚛𝚢┃ Charles Leclerc┃Where stories live. Discover now