THE ROOKIE driver ✔

Chapter 7: Circuit de Monaco

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"You know, Matteo," Isabella said, catching Matteo's eye as she walked over with a playful grin, "I've been teaching Jake a few Italian phrases. He's getting quite good at it!"

Jake gave a sheepish grin. "Well, I've tried. But it's not easy keeping up with all you Italians."

Matteo chuckled and raised an eyebrow. "Let's hear it then. What have you learned?"

Jake cleared his throat and said with exaggerated effort, "Dove è la spiaggia?"

Isabella clapped her hands in mock approval. "Not bad! That means 'Where is the beach?'"

Jake shrugged, his grin widening. "I figured it was useful for a day like today."

As Matteo and Jake bantered, Isabella spotted a new round of drinks being served and seized the opportunity. "Matteo, let's toast to a great week!"

They all gathered around, glasses clinking. The conversation flowed easily, mixing English and Italian as they recounted their favorite moments from the past few days. Isabella's energy was contagious, and even the most reserved team members found themselves drawn into the fun.

The sun was blazing in the clear Mediterranean sky, casting a golden sheen over Monaco's stunning coastline. Onboard the luxury yacht, the atmosphere was relaxed and jubilant as Matteo and his team members enjoyed a much-needed break before the Monaco Grand Prix. Matteo had been looking forward to this week, not just for the race but for the rare chance to spend quality time with his cousin Isabella and her husband, Jake, who had flown in to visit him.

The yacht was a stunning example of luxury on the water, stretching a sleek 80 feet with a streamlined white hull accented by navy blue. The upper deck was spacious and inviting, featuring deep-seated sofas and oversized cushions along the sides for lounging. A retractable canopy shaded a large wooden dining table, perfect for enjoying meals with panoramic ocean views.

The bar area was a highlight, with a polished granite counter stocked with an array of spirits and mixers, complemented by a small grill for fresh seafood and snacks. The lower deck housed a beautifully appointed salon with modern furnishings, large windows for natural light, and a state-of-the-art entertainment system.

The yacht also boasted sunbathing loungers and a bubbling Jacuzzi on the deck, ideal for relaxing while taking in the sea views. Below, the cabins were luxurious and well-equipped, featuring plush bedding and en-suite bathrooms, with the master suite offering particularly stunning ocean vistas.

Overall, the yacht blended elegance and comfort seamlessly, creating an ideal setting for a day of relaxation and fun on the Mediterranean.

As Matteo lounged on one of the plush deck chairs, trying to shake off the lingering effects of a bit too much champagne, he noticed Isabella and Jake chatting with some of the team members. Isabella's laugh, always loud and infectious, could be heard over the gentle lapping of the waves. Jake, with his easygoing American charm, was doing his best to keep up with the Italian banter, much to Isabella's delight.

After a few rounds of drinks, the group decided to break out the snacks. Isabella had brought some Italian goodies, and Jake had picked up a few American treats. The mix of foods was as eclectic as their conversation.

"Alright, who wants some prosciutto and melon?" Isabella called out, holding up a platter with a flourish.

"I'll take some," Jake said, grabbing a piece. "But I'm still trying to figure out why you all like this stuff so much."

"It's an Italian classic!" Isabella replied with a laugh. "You Americans have your hamburgers, we have prosciutto and melon."

Matteo smiled as he watched the pair in front of him, warmth spreading through him. He'd never really had a great example of real love growing up—his parents had always been more about practicality than romance—but seeing Isabella and Jake so effortlessly happy made him feel good. There was something genuine about them, something that just worked, and knowing that two of his closest family members had found that kind of happiness warmed his heart.