The lap of life

Chapter 8: Plan B

"Toto, I think we are not good at managing this situation... It's not healthy for both of us... For this reason a few weeks ago I sent my CV to McLaren and tomorrow I have the interview for the hiring, given that from my references they said they don't need to test me..."

The team principal's expression darkens at your mention the meeting with McLaren and a feeling of possessiveness and determination washes over him.

"Doll, you can't be serious... Leaving this team, switching to McLaren? You think I'd just let you go that easily?"

"Please, i need fresh air..."

Your boss, standing in front of you, looks bewildered, unable to accept your words; his gaze, usually resolute and self-assured, now helds a deep sadness mixed with a hint of desperation. Without a word, he approached you resolutely, placing his hands on your shoulders, anticipating that you would want to leave; his hands almost hurt you and every attempt to free yourself is futile because he has decided that you have to stay with him now and forever.

"You had to decide, me or Susie? See, you don't even know... So I'll decide, find another race engineer" you say, unnerved by his ways.

He steps one step away from you, with conflicted emotions flitting across his face as he contemplates your ultimatum. Watching you walking away, his mind is already racing to solve the dilemma you've place him in; he wants you, that is clear, but he's torn between his loyalty to his wife and the feelings he's developed for you.

"Damn it, doll. You're really driving me crazy!"

-

You go back to the garage and work, analyzing datas that just arrived from the wind tunnel, until you finish your shift; after taking all your things from the locker, you head towards the exit running into Toto, who was impatiently waiting for you at the door.

"We need to talk, can you come..."

"Talk here" you order him.

"It's about your ultimatum... I can't just make a decision like that on the spot... You know damn well it's not that simple..."

"So don't make starting a new path at McLaren even more difficult, I accepted it but now it's your turn..."

"You can't throw away everything you've achieved here just because of this ultimatum, this is a big decision you're making!"

His eyes become full of tears; you struggle to keep your emotions in check but, when you see him sobbing, you lean forward him, pressing your lips against his in a passionate farewell that conveyed more than words ever could.

Pulling back gently you look into his eyes, now clouded with surprise and a mix of emotions.

"It's a farewell gift, thank you for everything..." you whisper softly, trying to compose yourself, and you disapear from his view like a dream.