PRINCESS 2 [Charles Leclerc]

66. Code P-E

It's been two weeks since my appointment at the doctor's office. I tried my best to rest. I haven't told Charles about it. I don't want him to worry so much. I can't handle it on my own. It's the Monza Grand Prix this weekend. The atmosphere is buzzing with excitement as we walk into the paddock, hand in hand.

Charles: I'm so glad you're came today. It means a lot.

I got interrupted by my daughter who screams and run away from us.

Grace: Kika! Isa!

I smile watching how Kika picks Grace up and Isa hugs her tight.

Elisabeth: Couldn't say no to this.

The girls and Carlos and Pierre come over to us, giving us a welcome hug.

Kika: Girl, we missed you!

Elisabeth: I missed you too. It's always so excited to be here.

I look around happy seeing the mechanics running around, getting everything ready. The roar of engines.

Isa: How are you feeling? The news are crazy about you.

Elisabeth: Good, I'm glad the coronation will now take place after giving birth.

I look to Charles thankfully, putting my hand on my baby bump which is growing a little bit every day.

Kika: I still can't believe you're going to rule the country. It's insane.

Elisabeth: Same here, but I think I start to be excited about it.

I laugh but shrug my shoulders. Charles glances at me, being concerned.

Charles: I'm glad you're here, princess. But remember, you need to take it easy.

Isa: Charles is right, Betty. You need to relax, especially now.

Elisabeth: Hey, I'm relaxed. No worries about me please.

I throw my hands up in defence with a laugh. Kika puts an arm around me.

Kika: That's good and besides that, we're always gonna be there for you.

I put my head on her shoulder being thankful
to have all of them.

Pierre: And if anyone gives you trouble, just let us know. We'll handle it.

He grins.

Carlos: Yeah, Betty. You've got enough on your plate. We'll take care of everything else.

I'm getting emotional. All these hormones are hitting harder when being pregnant. I put my hand on my chest.

Elisabeth: Aw, I love you guys. Thanks for your support.

After we chat for a while the race is about to start. Charles gets up to lean down to Grace who's sitting on my lap.

Charles: Wish me good luck, mon ange. Daddy needs to race now.

Grace: Good luck, daddy.

She hugs him first before she gives him a kiss. I smile at them.

Charles: Thank you, I love you.

He gives her another kiss before he looks at me.

Charles: I love you too.

Elisabeth: I love you. Take care.

I kiss him and wave with Grace after him.

The race begins and Charles takes his place. I watch with Kika and Isa from the sidelines, my heart swelling with pride and anxiety. The noise and excitement, my mind drifts to the future after all these talks with my friends. The immense responsibility awaiting me. I try to mask the underlying stress. I know the eyes of the world are on me, but for now, I'm here for Charles.