Mind the Gap

Chapter 1

AnaVillanueva: 📍 Positano

Ana's POV

The sun casts a warm, golden hue over the quaint village of Positano, nestled along the stunning Amalfi Coast. I stroll leisurely, taking in the breathtaking views of pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffs, and the turquoise sea glistening below. It's a rare moment of calm after a whirlwind month, and I'm determined to savor every second.

I find a small, cozy café perched on the edge of the terrace, overlooking the water. The scent of fresh espresso and lemon blossoms fills the air. Choosing a table at the corner, I settle in, enjoying the panoramic view of the Amalfi Coast stretching out before me.

As I sip my coffee, I spot a young man at a nearby table, engrossed in a book. His tousled brown hair and relaxed attire contrast sharply with the polished, professional men I'm used to dealing with. There's something familiar about him, though I can't quite place it.

I shake off the thought and pull out my notebook, intending to jot down a few ideas for an upcoming project. But my attention keeps drifting back to the stranger. Suddenly, he glances up, meeting my gaze. His eyes sparkle with recognition and curiosity as he stands up.

"Excuse me, but haven't we met before?" he asks, his accent unmistakably British.

I smile politely, shaking my head. "I don't believe so."

"Really? You look familiar. I'm Lando, by the way. Lando Norris."

The name clicks, and I realize why he seems familiar. "The F1 driver?"

He grins, eyes lighting up. "Guilty as charged. And you are?"

"Ana. Ana Villanueva," I reply, extending my hand. "I work in development and political advising."

His eyebrows raise with interest. "That sounds impressive. What brings you to Positano?"

"A much-needed break from work," I admit. "And you?"

"Same. It's the off-season, so I'm taking a bit of time to relax before the craziness starts again."

"Well, welcome to the off-season club," I say, laughing lightly.

"Off-season club? I like that." He tilts his head, joining me in laughter. "Mind if I take this seat? I'm assuming you came here alone?"

I nod, "Yeah, just me."

"And you?" I ask.

"Same here. Needed a break from... well, everything." He smiles knowingly.

"Then, I'm honored to be an exception, Lando," I say playfully, and his eyes widen a little, his cheeks flushing slightly.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but... you have a way with words, Ana," he says, looking genuinely amused.

I feel my own cheeks heat up as I pick up my espresso. "Maybe it's just the vacation effect."

He chuckles softly. "Maybe. But I'm glad for it."

The conversation flows easily, like we're old friends. We talk about everything—work, travel, and racing. He's surprisingly easy to talk to, with none of the arrogance I'd half-expected. When I mention my recent project on gender-responsive policies, his eyes light up with genuine interest.

"That sounds intense, but important," he says, leaning forward. "It must feel rewarding to be making a difference."

"It is, but it's exhausting too. Sometimes I feel like I'm constantly chasing an impossible goal."

"I get that. In racing, sometimes you're doing everything right, but it just doesn't click. But you keep going. You learn, you adapt," he nods thoughtfully. "Until it does."

"Exactly," I agree. He's watching me with such intensity that I find myself smiling again. "Is it just because we're on vacation that this feels so..."

"This?" He raises an eyebrow, grinning. "The tension I'm feeling between us?"

"Yeah, that's the word I was looking for." I laugh, shaking my head. "I guess it's just one of those things."

"I think so too. Let's just... recognize it and let it be," he says, a hint of a smile still playing on his lips.

"Recognize and let it be. That's good advice."

"What are you looking forward to this coming season?" I ask, steering the conversation away.

"Do you watch every race?" he asks.

"Not every one. Just when I can. I'm more of a football fan, to be honest."

He grins. "A football fan, huh? Well, I'll try not to hold that against you."

"Hey, you haven't even answered the question!" I protest, and he laughs.

"I guess... winning? That's what I'm training for—to win."

"Winning podiums?"

"Yeah, but more than that," he leans back, his eyes serious. "I'm aiming for the World Championship this season."

There's something about the way he says it that makes me pause. He's completely focused, driven. "I can see that happening," I say quietly.

He looks at me for a moment, his expression softening. "And what about you? Ever thought of running for political office?"

"Not really. Takes a different kind of person for that. I prefer working behind the scenes."

"Ah, so you're the strategist," he says, smiling.

"Something like that," I reply, amused by how quickly he picks up on things.

"You know what? I like that," he says, leaning forward again. "You're interesting, Ana. I haven't laughed like this in a long time."

"Glad I could help." I make a face, and he just laughs again.

"Hey, do you want to grab dinner?" he asks suddenly, glancing at his watch.

I check the time and my eyes widen. "I can't. I have a Reiki appointment in like... fifteen minutes."

"Oh, okay," he nods, his smile faltering a little. "Can I walk you over?"

"Yeah, sure," I say, gathering my things. "It's just down the block."

We walk out of the café, the evening air cool and refreshing. The conversation continues easily, with laughter and playful teasing.

"Well, this is me," I say as we reach the building.

He looks at me for a moment, his expression serious. "I really enjoyed this, Ana. Can we continue?"

I hesitate, then nod. "I'd like that."

He grins, holding out his phone. "Here, give me your number."

I punch it in, and he snaps a quick picture of us together. "For the contact photo," he explains, his arm still around my shoulder.

"I'll send it to you," I say, shaking my head at his enthusiasm.

"See you around?" he asks hopefully.

"Yeah, maybe," I say with a smile.

He takes a step back, watching me walk inside. I glance back one last time, and he's still standing there, hands in his pockets, looking like he's just as surprised by our connection as I am.

As I step into the building, I feel a curious mix of excitement and apprehension. I hadn't expected to meet anyone on this trip, let alone someone like him.