Never Get to Heaven • Charles Leclerc

018. SPAIN

Before I knew it, it was the Saturday of the Spanish Grand Prix weekend and Adam and I were on a flight to Barcelona. The hum of the airplane did little to quieten my mind. Jo had flown out a few days before us to spend some time with Lando before the race, sending me updates and pictures of them exploring the city and the race circuit in the Spanish sunshine. I couldn't wait to see them both again, they were my safe space.

Our flight time meant that by the time we arrived in Barcelona, qualifying would have finished, so Adam and I agreed to drop our bags off at the hotel and explore a bit of the city. I was honestly excited, we hadn't went away together in over a year— Adam claiming his job was more important.

We managed to get a room in the same hotel as Joanna and the drivers. It was sleek and modern, a lot like the one in Italy. We checked in at the reception and made our way up to the room. I quickly changed out of my travel outfit into a little white sundress, touching up my make up and fixing my hair. I felt a little bit giddy, like I was dressing up for a first date.

I decided on the plane that this trip would be a chance for us — me, to commit to fixing our relationship. No more doubts. No more confusion. I was determined to make it work.

I sat on the bed waiting for Adam, texting Jo with a plan to meet up later on to catch up. Suddenly, Adam's phone started vibrating on the nightstand across from me.

"Babe... your phone is ringing!" I called out.

Adam rushed out from the bathroom, grabbing it swiftly. "Let me just take this quickly." He mumbled already walking out of the room.

I watched him disappear, the door closing softly behind him. My stomach dropped slightly.

It's nothing— probably a work call.

But a nagging doubt settled in my chest. I sighed, shaking my head, trying to shoo the thoughts from my mind. I stood up adjusting my dress. I need this weekend to go well, I can't have another wave of uncertainty ruin this.

I stood in front the mirror, checking my reflection one last time as I heard the door creak open softly.

"Sorry about that— just work." He shrugged, his voice casual as he slipped his phone back into his pocket.

I forced a smile. "Ready to go?"

He nodded, but something about his expression felt off, like he was distracted. I pushed the thought out of my mind, grabbing his hand, determined to enjoy myself.

We wandered through the streets of Barcelona, the city bathed in the golden light of early evening. The air was warm, filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the faint buzz of excitement for tomorrow's race. Adam and I strolled along, hand in hand, stopping to take pictures, exploring the vibrant streets. We kissed, we laughed, but I couldn't shake the feeling of distance between us. Adam continued to chat idly about work, his mind seemingly elsewhere, while I pretended to listen, my own thoughts drifting back to the race, to Lando and Jo, to Charles.

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After a few hours of wandering the city, we returned to the hotel. Adam mentioned he wanted to head to a bar down the street to meet some work colleagues who were also in town for the race. I asked if I could join but he reminded me that I had made plans to meet Jo and Lando. I felt suspicion rise through my chest but I forced myself to trust Adam.

He kissed me, assuring me he wouldn't be late. His touch calmed my mind slightly and I waved him goodbye at the hotel door.

I wandered over to the elevator, stepping in and pressing the button for Jo and Lando's floor. The doors were just beginning to close when a voice called out.