Accelerating Dreams

CHAPTER 2: OSCAR'S WARNING

Oscar's POV

The plane ride to Bahrain was a mix of excitement and nerves. Jennifer had fallen asleep almost immediately after takeoff, her head resting on my shoulder. I looked at her peaceful face, feeling a protective surge well up inside me. She was stepping into my world now, and I knew exactly what that meant.

The F1 circuit was thrilling, but also relentless and cutthroat. Drivers and team members alike were under constant pressure, and the lifestyle could be unforgiving. I didn't want Jennifer getting caught up in the chaos or, worse, becoming a distraction to any of the drivers.

As we touched down in Bahrain, I gently shook her awake. "We're here," I said, watching her eyes flutter open with a sleepy smile.

"Already?" she murmured, stretching.

"Yep. Welcome to the F1 circus," I said, grinning.

The next few days were a blur of activity. Jennifer seemed to fit in effortlessly, her natural charm and curiosity winning people over quickly. I saw her laughing with the mechanics, chatting with the team members, and even getting into deep conversations with some of the other drivers.

It was when I noticed Lando talking to her, leaning in just a bit to close with that trademark cheeky grin of his, that I realized I needed to set some ground rules.

That evening, I gathered the drivers for a quick meeting in the hospitality suite. They were all there: Max, Lewis, Charles, Carlos, and Lando among others. The atmosphere was light, with everyone joking around and teasing each other. But I knew I had to make my point clear.

"Alright, listen up, guys," I started, clapping my hands to get their attention. They all turned to me, curious. "I need to talk to you about something important."

"What's up, mate?" Lewis asked, raising an eyebrow.

"My sister, Jennifer. She's here with me for the season," I said, watching their reactions. Lando's eyes flickered with interest, and I felt my protective instincts kick in. "I want to make it clear that she's off-limits. No dating, no flirting. She's here to enjoy the experience, not to be part of your love lives."

There was a moment of silence, and then Max let out a low whistle. "Protective much?" he teased, but I could see the understanding in his eyes.

"Seriously, though," I continued, my tone firm. "I mean it. If any of you cross that line, you'll have me to deal with. Got it?"

Lando raised his hands in mock surrender, a grin on his face. "Message received, mate. Loud and clear."

The others nodded, some of them chuckling, but I knew they got the point. Jennifer was special to me, and I wasn't going to let anything, or anyone mess with her.

Later that night, as Jennifer and I sat outside our hotel room, watching the city lights of Bahrain, she looked at me with a curious expression. "What did you say to them?"

I shrugged, trying to keep it casual. "Just made sure they know you're off-limits. I don't want any of those guys thinking they can mess around with my sister."

Jennifer laughed; a sound that made me smile despite myself. "You didn't have to do that, you know. I can take care of myself."

"I know you can," I replied, ruffling her hair affectionately. "But you're my little sister. It's my job to look out for you."

She leaned her head on my shoulder, and we sat there in comfortable silence, the bond between us stronger than ever. As the night wore on, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Jennifer was here, part of my world now, and I was determined to make sure she stayed safe and happy.

Little did I know, despite my best efforts, fate had other plans for us.