Risking it all (Lando Norris)

Chapter 39

Lando

The morning light poured through the windows as I finished setting the table for breakfast. I couldn't stop grinning, still riding the high from the Miami win. 

Today was shaping up to be just as great because Max Fewtrell, my best mate, and his girlfriend, Pietra, were coming over to congratulate me. 

They'd been on vacation and hadn't been able to make it to the race, so they were stopping by before heading off on another trip.

Lily was in the kitchen, whipping up some eggs and bacon. The scent filled the air, making my stomach growl. She was humming softly to herself, clearly in a good mood, and it made me smile to see her so happy. 

Everything felt right. Winning that race felt amazing, but having Lily here, in our home, made it all the more special.

"Lando, could you grab the juice from the fridge?" she called out, breaking me from my thoughts.

"Sure thing," I replied, walking over to the fridge. I grabbed the orange juice and set it on the table. "You know, Max and Pietra are going to be impressed by this spread. You've outdone yourself."

She grinned at me, flipping the last piece of bacon onto a plate. "I just hope it's enough food. You know how Max is—he eats like he's preparing for a marathon."

"True," I chuckled. "But then again, we're not too different, are we?"

Just as we were finishing up with the food, the doorbell rang. "I'll get it," I said, heading to the door. As I opened it, Max was standing there with his signature smirk, Pietra beside him, her arm looped through his.

"Mate!" Max exclaimed, pulling me into a bear hug. "Congratulations, champ! You did it!"

"Thanks, man!" I laughed, returning the hug with equal enthusiasm. "It feels surreal."

Pietra stepped forward and gave me a quick hug as well. "We're so proud of you, Lando. That win was incredible."

"Thanks, Pietra. It's good to see you both," I said, ushering them inside. "Come on, breakfast is ready."

We all walked into the kitchen where Lily was just placing the last of the food on the table. She turned to greet Max and Pietra with a warm smile.

"Hi, guys! It's so good to see you," Lily said, giving Pietra a hug and then Max.

"Lily! You've got this place looking great," Max said, looking around appreciatively. "And the food smells amazing. You're really spoiling us."

Lily laughed. "I'm just trying to keep up with the standard you've set, Max. I hear you're quite the cook yourself."

Max puffed out his chest playfully. "I dabble. But I'm happy to take a break and let you spoil us today."

We all sat down at the table and dug into the feast Lily had prepared. The conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and teasing. Max and I couldn't help but rib each other about past races and future ones, while Pietra and Lily bonded over their shared love for travel and fashion.

"So, what's next for you two?" I asked, turning to Max and Pietra.

"We're actually heading off to Greece this afternoon," Pietra replied, her eyes lighting up. "Just a quick getaway before the next race."

"Greece, huh? Sounds amazing," Lily said. "You two are always on the move."

Max shrugged, grinning. "You know us—never sitting still for too long. But we couldn't leave without seeing you first and celebrating your big win."