𝐆𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐄𝐍 𝐒𝐋𝐔𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐒 | 𝐋𝐍𝟒

𝐕𝐈

«Uh, I need to go talk to Will» Lando mumbled awkwardly before walking off, leaving Zak, Oscar, and Milaine standing there, bewildered.

Everyone in the garage knew Lando as the outgoing, light-hearted guy—someone who could get along with anyone thanks to his playful, childlike nature. But now, even Zak seemed confused by his behavior.

Milaine wasn't, though. She knew exactly why he was acting this way.

«Uh... He's just a bit stressed about the race» Zak offered with a nervous laugh, attempting to excuse Lando's strange demeanor.

Oscar raised his eyebrows, clearly not buying the explanation, but he stayed quiet.

«Yeah, I understand,» Milaine replied, though her voice was strained. She shifted uncomfortably. «Actually, I should head back to the Red Bull garage. I promised Max I'd watch the race from there.»

«Ah, betraying the Papaya already?» Zak teased, his tone light but his eyes still searching for answers.

Milaine chuckled softly. «Never.»

«Well, then, you have to come and see us again after the race» Zak insisted, his grin returning as he nudged her.

Milaine hesitated, a thoughtful silence hanging between them. After a few moments, she nodded. «Sure Zak, i'll come.»

He pulled her into another hug, like he was never going to see her again. She had just agreed to come by after the race. She hugged him back.

He stepped away, patting her shoulder. She smiled at him and turned to Oscar. «Good luck, Oscar.»

«Thank you, I'll need it» Oscar nodded, flashing her a small smile.

She giggled softly, gave them a wave, and walked away from the McLaren garage, exchanging a few hellos with the team, who were happy to welcome her back.

Just outside the papaya garage, she spotted him—standing there with a water bottle in his hand, a blonde, tanned girl next to him. They seemed to be in conversation, but as soon as he saw her, he went silent, unable to tear his eyes away from hers.

Milaine's heartbeat quickened as he stared right into her soul, almost glaring, which was strange for someone like him. His expression seemed too serious. Nervous, she didn't know what else to do, so she gave him a small smile, almost apologetic. She didn't expect one in return but wanted to ease the tension.

Sure enough, his glare faded, and now he just stared at her, his blue eyes wide, almost mesmerized by her smile.

The girl beside him seemed to notice the change in him, realizing he wasn't responding anymore. She turned around, curious to see what had captured his attention.

Her eyes landed on Milaine, confusion evident. Milaine, feeling the girl's gaze, quickly walked away, not wanting to cause any problems. She made her way to the Red Bull garage in silence.

She spotted Kelly and walked over, standing beside her without saying a word, too lost in her thoughts.

«What's with the long face?» Kelly asked.

Milaine blinked a few times, shaking her head. «Nothing.»

Kelly furrowed her brows, confused by Milaine's strange behavior but decided to let it go, not pressing further.

Milaine and Kelly watched the race together from the Red Bull garage. The excitement of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix filled the air. For Kelly, this was normal, but for Milaine, it was her first time seeing Max win a championship in person.

When the race ended, Max crossed the finish line in first place, winning the race and securing his third world championship. The Red Bull garage erupted in cheers, with everyone hugging and celebrating.