Art to fall in love with /// Lando Norris

Chapter 46: The Strain Before the Birth

The final weeks of Cassy's pregnancy brought new challenges and discomforts. The once easy tasks had become burdensome. Simple actions like putting on shoes, lifting even light objects, or changing clothes felt like monumental efforts. The weight of the baby was taking a toll on her body, leaving her exhausted and frustrated.

"Ugh, I can't even tie my own shoes," Cassy muttered, sinking into a chair and staring down at her swollen feet.

Lando, always attentive, knelt in front of her and gently took her foot in his hand. "Let me do it," he said softly, tying her shoes with care. "You shouldn't be stressing yourself out."

Cassy sighed, a mix of gratitude and frustration. "I hate feeling so helpless, Lando. I can't do anything on my own."

Lando kissed her ankle before standing up. "You're doing the most important job of all, growing our baby. Let me take care of everything else."

---

While Lando was dedicated to helping Cassy as much as possible, he also had commitments pulling him in other directions. His involvement with his team Quadrant and the marketing obligations for McLaren required his attention. The demands were mounting, and though Lando tried to balance everything, it wasn't easy.

"Lando, you have that Quadrant shoot in a few days," Cassy reminded him one evening. "And the McLaren videos too. You need to go to England for those."

Lando frowned, clearly torn. "I know, but I don't want to leave you alone. You're my priority."

Cassy reached for his hand, squeezing it gently. "I appreciate that, but you have responsibilities too. I'll be fine for a few days. We've got everything set up here, and I can manage."

---

Despite Cassy's reassurances, the discussion escalated into an argument. The tension between Lando's sense of duty to his career and his worry for Cassy's well-being came to a head.

"I'm not leaving you when you need me the most!" Lando exclaimed, his voice filled with a mix of anger and concern. "What if something happens and I'm not here?"

"Lando, you can't put your life on hold because of me!" Cassy shot back, her frustration boiling over. "I'm not asking you to abandon your responsibilities. I'm telling you I can handle a few days alone."

Lando's eyes flashed with hurt and determination. "You don't understand how much I worry about you. It's not just about work; it's about being here for you and our baby."

Cassy's eyes filled with tears, a combination of hormonal swings and genuine emotion. "I know that, but I also know how important your career is to you. Don't sacrifice everything for me. I'll be fine."

Lando shook his head, his jaw set. "I'm not leaving you. End of discussion."

Cassy's temper flared. "Stop treating me like I'm fragile! I'm pregnant, not helpless. Go to England and do what you need to do."

---

The argument left a heavy silence hanging between them. Lando reluctantly began packing his suitcase, his movements stiff and agitated. Cassy watched him, her heart aching but her resolve firm.

As Lando zipped up his bag, he turned to her, his eyes dark with frustration. "If this is what you really want, fine. But don't think for a second that I'm happy about it."

Cassy stood there, arms crossed over her chest, trying to keep her emotions in check. "I don't want you to be happy about leaving. I want you to understand that I'm capable of handling this."

Lando paused, the anger in his eyes softening slightly. "I just don't want to regret not being here if something happens."

Cassy stepped forward, placing a hand on his cheek. "Nothing's going to happen. I promise. Just go and do what you need to do."