RED LIGHTS | LANDO NORRIS

Best Mates

"Lia!"

She haphazardly hustled to the door of her hotel room and swung it open. Lando was there waiting for her, leaning against the doorframe.

His eyes trailed down from the toothbrush in her mouth to the elegant outfit she donned. Her eyes went wide, not expecting his presence.

"What are you doing here?"

She motioned for him to come in as she went to the bathroom to finish brushing her teeth. He slowly stepped into the room and took in the scene.

"I figured we could drive to dinner together since I'm just down the hall."

"Oh yeah sure," she agreed. He watched as she rushed around trying to get ready quicker now. She slid on a pair of slim boots and snatched a jacket.

"Does this look alright? I'm not really sure what dress code this dinner is."

She glanced over his slacks and pullover and found herself conscious of what she was wearing. Maybe she should've put on a skirt and heels instead.

Lando's eyes wandered over her crisp outfit. He thought the casual style suited her well.

"No, no, you look great," he assured. He caught himself fumbling over his words so he left it at that.

She grabbed her purse and together they left the room. He led her down to his car and opened the door for her before jumping into the drivers seat.

"Is it weird that I'm nervous? I haven't really met anyone yet."

He glanced over as she nervously adjusted her top. He let a small smile slip. She noticed the expression and questioned it.

"I haven't seen you nervous before. It's cute."

"Cute?"

"Besides," he brushed past, "You haven't nothing to be worried about. They're looking forward to meeting you."

"You've spoken to them about me?"

"How could we not?"

She shrugged. She never really thought about any of them paying attention to her. They were all more experienced in formula one and have known each other for years-she was just the rookie.

"Chin up, Wren. They'll be your best mates in no time."

She sighed and they stayed in silence again until they pulled up to the restaurant. They emerged from the car together and walked in. Lia looked around for the others until Lando came up behind her and pointed them out. They walked towards them and were greeted with a loud cheer.

"Lia! Lia! Come!" Carlos motioned her over to where he was sitting. Lando laughed as she nervously made her way over to the empty seat besides him. Carlos pulled her into a tight hug which caused her to squeal a bit.

He released her and pulled Lando into an even tighter one. They both sat down with Lia sitting between Lando and Max.

"He's taken quite a bit of shots already if you hadn't noticed," Max commented, "Daniel and I are seeing how many it takes for him to pick up the check."

Lia smiled and glanced at Carlos. He was now standing and attempting to speak to Charles across the table.

"Now he's already taken three. Daniel thinks it'll be six and I think it'll be five. Care to join in, Aurelia?"

"Oh please it's just Lia. What prize are we betting for exactly?"

"A free drink...on Carlos of course."