Twists and Turns in Monte Carlo: A Formula 1 Affair

{4.3}

"Is this an April Fool's joke?"

Jackie looked over at her granddaughter, puzzled. "It's February my child."

"That was meant as a rethorical question too, Grandma."

Joanne waved it off. "Never mind. What does matter is that you just decide things like that over my head. I'm the head of the foundation, everything is decided by me. How do I look now if I cancel it all again?" Joanne talked herself into a rage.

"Because you won't, my child. You can't and don't want to embarrass yourself." Jackie smiled mischievously and then took a sip of English tea.

Whenever Jackie comes into town, the two of them meet for a cup of tea. A little remnant of Joanne's boarding school days in the UK, they have tea in the afternoon.
"Please," Joanne relented, annoyed, "do what you think is right, but I won't participate."

"Now pull yourself together. You're not a little kid anymore, you have a lot of responsibility."

"Too much for my taste," Joanne mumbled between them.

"I know the Kennedy name weighs heavily and we've been over this issue together many times, but there's no getting around some publicity."

"I think we have different definitions of that term."

Jackie placed her teacup down gently, her gaze softening as she looked at Joanne. "I understand your frustration, dear, but using our name and influence is crucial for the causes you care about."

Joanne sighed, rubbing her temples. "I know, Grandma, but I hate these events. They're all about showing off and mingling with people who don't genuinely care about our causes. It's exhausting."

Jackie reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Joanne's. "I promise you, not everyone there is like that. Besides, the event is mainly organized by my husband and me. I will give the speech for the foundation, if that suits you better. "

"That may be true," Joanne conceded, "but it doesn't make it any easier."

"Just remember why you're doing this," Jackie said softly. "It's not about you or me. It's about the foundation and the people we're trying to help. If a few hours of discomfort can lead to significant support, isn't it worth it?"

Joanne looked down, the weight of her grandmother's words sinking in. She nodded slowly. "Alright, I'll be there. But don't expect me to enjoy it."

Jackie smiled warmly. "That's all I ask, my child. And who knows? You might surprise yourself.But now let's change the subject. I have great news, that's actually why I came. Your cousin is finally pregnant."

"Eloise?"

"For heaven's sake, no. It's your cousin Fiona. I'm finally going to be a great-grandmother," Jackie beamed at these words, "it's about time for you too. A steady relationship would do you good, and oh, how I wish I could walk you down the aisle."

Joanne imitated choking noises before looking indignantly at her grandma. "Not in this lifetime, we talked about this. End of discussion." 

"Speaking of relationships, you usually tell me a bit too much about your love life, it's been pretty quiet lately."

"Too much stress for a private life at the moment. The company, the foundation, sleep. Then it starts all over again."

"That's not healthy, my darling." Jackie's voice sounded worried.

"I know, but what am I supposed to do? Quitting is out of the question."

Jackie sighed, her expression a mix of concern and determination. "You're carrying a lot on your shoulders, Joanne. I just want you to find some balance. You're young, and you deserve a personal life too."

"I'll try, Grandma. But right now, the foundation needs me more," Joanne replied, her tone softening.

Jackie smiled warmly. "Just promise me you'll take care of yourself."

Joanne nodded. "I promise."

Jackie glanced at her watch and sighed softly. "I have to leave now, dear. Your grandfather is expecting me back home."

Joanne nodded, not lifting her eyes from the cup of tea she was stirring absently. "Alright, Grandma. Safe travels."

Jackie stood up, smoothing down her elegant dress. She leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on Joanne's forehead. "Remember what we talked about. And take care of yourself."

"I will," Joanne murmured, forcing a small smile.

Jackie gave her a final, lingering look before turning and heading toward the door. Joanne heard the soft click of the latch as the door closed behind her grandmother, leaving her alone in the quiet apartment. None of her three roommates were home that day. 

Joanne sighed deeply, her thoughts immediately drifting back to the mountain of work awaiting her. The JFK Foundation was her passion, her life's work, but it was also a relentless source of stress. She loved the impact they were making. Yet, the constant pressure to attend high-profile events and mingle with influential people drained her.

She reached for her tablet, flipping through emails and notes. She had to finalize the budget for the upcoming campaign, review grant proposals, and prepare her speech for the next board meeting. Joanne rubbed her temples, feeling a headache brewing.

As first step she lit herself a cigarette and poured a huge glas of red wine. She had a few long nights awaiting.