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♡ ( 𝖢𝖺𝗋𝗅𝗈𝗌 𝖲𝖺𝗂𝗇𝗓 𝟧𝟧 x Max Verstappen 1） －－ 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 five , Carlos' 𝖯𝖮𝖵
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The heat of Bahrain felt different on qualifying day. It wasn't just the sun bearing down, or the relentless noise of the paddock, but the weight of expectation pressing on me.
After the tension in the last two free practice sessions, I knew today was going to be a fight.
Max had pushed everyone hard in the previous practices, and I could feel the pressure tightening around my chest. It wasn't just about finding pace now, it was about getting my head back in the game.
About proving to myself, to the team, and most of all, to him that I wasn't just here to play second fiddle.
I was here to qualify. I was here to race. Nothing else mattered.
As I walked into the garage, the atmosphere was tense but focused. My crew was prepping the car, everyone buzzing with the usual pre-qualifying energy.
I spotted Max on the other side of the garage, already suited up and leaning against the wall, his usual calm, unreadable expression on his face.
He didn't even glance my way.
Fine by me. Today, I didn't need the distraction. My mind was locked on what I had to do. Get the car in the right window, manage the tires, and push.
Whatever had been going on with Max, whatever games he'd been playing the last two days, I was done with it. This was my time to take control.
