There's Twice as Many Stars as Usual| L.S

16

Charlotte

Race day.

I wake up to Mick pacing back and forth, trying to find his things for the day. The rustling and muttering are enough to pull me out of my sleep. I groan and slip out of bed, rubbing my eyes as I try to shake off the grogginess.

"Morning," I mumble, heading to the bathroom to freshen up.

"Morning," Mick replies distractedly, still rummaging through his bags.

I spot the thing he's probably looking for on the chair and toss them over. "Here you go."

"Thanks," he says with a relieved smile. "You coming to the garage today?"

"Of course," I say, grabbing my clothes for the day. I opt for a pair of comfortable jeans and Mick's extra Mercedes shirt, which has become my go-to for the recent race weekends. I quickly get ready, pulling my hair back into a ponytail and slipping on my sneakers.

We head down to the lobby together, the buzz of race day already in the air. The excitement is palpable as we join the throng of people heading to the track. The walk is filled with casual chatter about the race, strategies, and the usual banter that keeps things light.

Once at the track, I make my way to the Mercedes garage while Mick heads off to his team obligations. The energy is electric, and I find a spot to watch the preparations. The mechanics are busy, the drivers are focused, and the atmosphere is charged with anticipation.

As the race approaches, I grab a quick snack and some water, trying to calm my nerves. I know it's a big day for everyone, and the pressure is immense. I see Logan in his race suit, looking more determined than ever. He catches my eye and gives me a small, reassuring smile.

I make my way to the Mercedes pit wall, where I'll be watching the race. The countdown to the formation lap begins, and my heart starts to race along with the anticipation of the crowd.

As the lights go out and the race begins, the roar of the engines fills the air. The excitement is contagious, and I find myself cheering and shouting along with everyone else. The race is intense, with overtakes, close calls, and the ever-present drama.

I watch as the race unfolds, my heart in my throat with every twist and turn. It's a nail-biting finish, with Logan fighting hard for position and the Mercedes drivers pushing to their limits.

When the race finally ends, Logan finishes just outside the points, but his performance is strong and commendable. The Mercedes drivers, George and Lewis, finish in respectable positions, adding valuable points to the team's tally.

As the dust settles and the drivers return to the pits, I make my way to the Williams garage to congratulate Logan. He's sweaty and tired but smiles when he sees me.

"You did amazing out there," I say, giving him a hug.

"Thanks, Char," he replies, his smile genuine. "I gave it my all."

We spend a few moments talking before I head back to the Mercedes garage to celebrate with Mick and the team. The day has been a whirlwind of emotions, but it's these moments of connection and support that make it all worthwhile.

After we finish with everything, we head back to the hotel.

"Did you wanna join me for the night out or stay in?" Mick asks.

"I'm gonna stay here tonight," I say, yawning.

He nods and proceeds to get ready for the night out.

My phone buzzes.

Logan
I'm thinking of staying in tonight.
Care to join me?

Charlotte
Absolutely. I'll be right up.

I place my phone down and change into a comfortable tank top and a pair of black sweatpants.

Grabbing my room key and phone, I head up to Logan's room. The hotel hallway is quiet, the dim lights casting a soft glow as I find Logan's door and knock lightly.

He opens the door almost immediately, a small smile on his face. "Hey, come on in."

I step inside, feeling a sense of familiarity in his space. The room is cozy, with a view overlooking the city lights. Logan gestures towards the bed, where a movie is already playing on the screen.

"Grab a seat," he says, settling beside me.

I make myself comfortable next to him, the warmth of his presence calming my tired mind. We spend the evening chatting, laughing, and enjoying each other's company in the quiet comfort of his room. I start to feel a chill in the air and shiver slightly. Logan notices immediately and, without a word, pulls off his hoodie and hands it to me with a gentle smile.

"Here, this should keep you warm," he says.

"Thank you," I reply, slipping it on and instantly feeling its comforting embrace. The hoodie carries his scent, adding to the sense of ease I feel being with him. We continue talking, I lay my head on his shoulder as he speaks.

As the night progresses, I realize how easy it feels to be with Logan, how natural our conversations flow.
Eventually, exhaustion catches up with me, and I yawn, feeling the pull of sleep.

"You look tired," Logan says gently, glancing at me.

"Yeah, it's been a long day," I admit, leaning into the pillows.

He nods understandingly. "You can stay here if you want. I'll take the couch."

"I probably shouldn't" I sigh

Logan frowns slightly, concern in his eyes. "Are you sure? I don't mind, really."

"I know," I say softly. "But I think it's better if I go back to my room."

He nods, accepting my decision. "Okay, but let me at least walk you back."

I smile at his kindness. "Thanks, Logan."

We both stand, and Logan grabs his room key. The walk to my room is quiet, a comfortable silence between us as we make our way down the hallway. When we reach my door, I turn to him.

"Thank you for tonight," I say sincerely. "I really enjoyed it."

"Me too," he replies hugging me, his smile warm and genuine. "Get some rest, okay?"

"I will," I promise. "Goodnight, Logan."

"Goodnight, Charlotte," he says, watching as I step into my room and close the door behind me.

As I settle into my own bed, I can't help but reflect on the evening. Despite the exhaustion, a smile tugs at my lips as I think about Logan and how effortlessly we connect. The thought lingers as I drift off to sleep, comforted by the memory of our time together.