My Brother's Teammate | Lando Norris

Dial Drunk

The paddock was a flurry of activity on race day at the Belgian Grand Prix. The tension in the air was palpable, as teams prepared for the final checks and drivers readied themselves for the high-stakes race ahead. Alexis stood beside the McLaren garage, her eyes scanning the frenetic scene. The weekend had been an emotional rollercoaster, a blend of exhilaration and heartache that had left her feeling both elated and unsettled.

Oscar's impressive performance throughout the weekend had been a high point, but the shadow of her encounter with Lando the previous day loomed large. It was a painful reminder of their unresolved past and the deep, lingering feelings they still harboured for each other. The rawness of their conversation had been a jolt, stirring up emotions Alexis had thought she had managed to compartmentalise.

"Good luck today." Alexis said softly to Oscar, giving him a supportive smile. Her brother's calm and collected demeanour was a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions she was feeling.

Oscar looked at her with a reassuring grin. "Thanks, Lex. I've got a good feeling about today."

Alexis nodded, her gaze shifting to Lily, who stood beside her with an air of serene composure. Lily's calming presence had been a welcome anchor for Alexis throughout the weekend, and she was grateful for her being by her side.

"You've been such a great support," Alexis said quietly to Lily, her voice laden with sincerity. "I don't know how I would've managed this weekend without you."

Lily gave a gentle smile, her eyes reflecting empathy. "I'm just glad I could be here for you."

As the minutes ticked down to the start of the race, the activity around the McLaren garage intensified. Engineers and crew members made final adjustments, and drivers engaged in pre-race rituals. The excitement in the air was palpable, a stark contrast to the emotional turmoil Alexis had been navigating.

Oscar approached the car, his focus laser-sharp. He gave Alexis a quick nod before climbing into the cockpit. The roar of the engines starting up echoed through the paddock, a powerful reminder of the spectacle and intensity of Formula 1 racing.

Alexis took a deep breath, trying to push aside the residual emotions from her encounter with Lando. She knew she needed to be present for Oscar and to support him through the race. As the cars lined up on the grid, the excitement grew, and Alexis found herself caught up in the moment, silently cheering for her brother and hoping for the best outcome.

Oscar, starting from P4, and Lando, just behind in P5, were both under the spotlight. The anticipation was palpable, and Alexis' heart raced as the cars lined up on the grid. Lily's presence beside her was a calming influence, but the intensity of the moment made it hard for Alexis to fully relax.

As the lights went out and the race began, Alexis' eyes were fixed on Lando's car. From the start, it was clear that he was driving with a fierce newfound determination. The aggression in his approach was evident, his car weaving through the field with vigor. Every move he made was calculated yet audacious, a testament to his intent to capitalise on every opportunity.

Alexis couldn't help but fidget with the ring Lando had given her, a subtle habit that had become almost second nature. As the race progressed, the tension in her grip tightened, her gaze never leaving the screen.

Lando's audacious driving soon led to a breathtaking manoeuvre as he attempted a daring overtaking move on Charles. The move was risky, pushing the boundaries of what was deemed safe, but Lando executed it with precision. Alexis let out a sharp intake of breath as Lando's car pushed forward, slipping into P3 with a surge of momentum. The excitement in the garage was mirrored by the ecstatic cheers over the team radio.