Twists and Turns in Monte Carlo: A Formula 1 Affair

{7.4}

The girls spent the whole night out drinking, dancing having fun. Joanne even surprised them by showing off her stripping abilities on a pole.

The clock showed exactly 07:34am when the girls stumbled into the apartment. Lina having a constant hiccup, Daisy needing tow times the walkway and time for everything and Mel left them hanging cause she met a cute guy she thought was fuckable.

Joanne threw herself on her bed, striping her clothes cuddling herself into her blanked. The good thing about being your own boss, you do not have to attend work on a Monday, whey you got too drunk the night before.

In her drunk delirium she decided to text Toto.

when do I get to see you again

I am in Barcelona this race weekend

congrats on the win btw. am I your lucky charm

you know fuck me win the races

She stared at her phone. He did not respond. It's been now ten minuets. Fuck. She tried to think straight but damn she was drunk and maybe a bit high. 

sorry if that came out wrong

I am in a meeting, now worries. I would like to test that out. 

Be in Barcelona Friday  evening. 

I can do that

fyi I am naked right now 

really playing that low?

no not really. just got home from partying.

good then. see you Friday hope you are naked then

"Oh yes, she will," Joanne thought, smiling to herself as she drifted off to sleep.

Three hours later, her phone buzzed, waking her up. She felt awful. Trying to sound like she hadn't just woken up, she answered, "Kennedy?"

"Hello, Joanne. Hope you had a wonderful morning," her grandmother's voice came through the line. "Did I just wake you?"

"No, no. I'm actually in my office. What's up?"

"That's bad because you said you would be here today for lunch and I was wondering where you are." Joanne stared at the ceiling. Shit, yeah, that was today. "I'm on my way. See you soon."

She jumped out of bed, everything spinning. She was definitely still drunk. She quickly grabbed a pair of shorts and a tee, freshened up a bit, and left the flat in a few minutes. Joanne had to stop on the street to throw up in a bin before getting herself a taxi.

Joanne arrived at her grandparents' estate feeling slightly more human, though the residual effects of her hangover still lingered. The sprawling grounds, with their manicured lawns and blooming flowerbeds, were a stark contrast to her disheveled state. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the afternoon ahead.

Her grandmother Jackie was waiting for her at the entrance, looking as elegant as ever. "Joanne, darling," she said, giving her a warm hug. "You look a bit pale. Are you feeling alright?"

Joanne forced a smile. "Just a bit tired, Nana. Late night working on a case."

Jackie raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. "Well, come inside. Lunch is ready."

They walked into the grand dining room, where the table was set with a light, elegant meal. Mr. Oscorp, already seated, greeted her with a nod. The conversation started light, discussing family updates and the latest events in their social circles. Joanne tried to focus, but her mind kept drifting back to Toto.

"Joanne, you seem distracted," her grandfather observed. "Is everything alright?"

She nodded, swallowing a bite of her salad. "Yes, just a lot on my mind with work."

Jackie exchanged a knowing look with her husband. "Speaking of work, you must be very busy. I spoke to Alec last week, and he said you are very busy right now."

Joanne nodded again. "Yes, it's been quite hectic, but it is okay. I can handle it, really."

After lunch, Jackie suggested they go for a ride. Joanne eagerly agreed, hoping the fresh air would clear her head. They changed into riding gear and headed to the stables. The horses, sleek and well-groomed, were already saddled and waiting.

Joanne hugged Bear happily and they set off at a leisurely pace. The rhythmic clopping of hooves and the gentle breeze were soothing, and Joanne began to relax. Her hangover started to ease.

Jackie rode beside her on her white gelding, the picture of grace and composure. "Joanne Francesca, I wanted to talk to you about something," she began, her tone gentle but serious.

Joanne glanced over, trying to read her grandmother's expression. Jackie used her full name, which meant no good. "What is it, Nana?"

Jackie hesitated for a moment. "You know I only want the best for you, right? I've noticed you've been a bit... distant lately."

Joanne's heart raced. Did they know about Toto? She tried to keep her voice steady. "I've just been busy, that's all. The law firm, the foundation, handling my money, all that just got a bit... a lot lately. But I am fine, therapy helps, really. No redo of my 18-year-old breakdown."

Jackie sighed, but didn't say anything, just looked at her granddaughter with concern.

As they returned to the stables, Jackie squeezed her hand. "Remember, Joanne, I am always here for you. No matter what."

Joanne smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "I know, Jackie. Thank you. You are the most important person in my life. I do not know how I could handle everything without you."

As they dismounted and handed their horses to the stable hands, Jackie turned to Joanne, her eyes twinkling with a mix of mischief and wisdom. "Joanne, dear, I know you fancy Toto Wolff. I am your grandmother, after all. I raised you. I can see these things."

Joanne's heart skipped a beat, dropping her helmet by surprise, but she managed to keep her expression neutral. "Excuse me? I do not..."

Jackie raised a hand, silencing her with a gentle smile. "I don't know the extent of your... involvement, but I want you to be careful. He's a charming man, but the world you're entering with him is full of its own challenges. People can be harsh, you should know that by now."

Joanne nodded, touched by her grandmother's perceptiveness and care. "Cool, really cool, but I do not know what you mean, by any means."

"I raised you, helped you through a drug addiction. I know when you lie to me, young lady." Her tone shifted a bit. "Just hope Mr. Oscorp does not find out, he would rip both of you to shreds."

Joanne shrugged a bit, not knowing how to react. All of this was too much right now.

"Give your grandmother a hug now," Jackie commanded, pulling Joanne close and hugging her intensely, with the care of a mother. It took a few seconds, and the tall woman in her arms softly started to cry.