Eyes Don't Lie | Charles Leclerc

Part 52 | No Need To Ask...

July 15, 2023

I woke feeling the warmth of Aria's body wrapped around mine. She nestled against my chest, her breathing steady and peaceful. I couldn't help but smile, looking down at her, in awe at how serene she looked. Before the race weekend started, I wanted to savor every second of quiet with her.

Carefully, I shifted, trying not to wake her as I reached over to check my phone on the nightstand. Messages and reminders flashed on the screen...media engagements, team meetings, and, of course, the sponsor dinner tonight. Monza was always a hectic time, especially since it's Ferrari's home race. I knew today would be non stop. But for a few more minutes, I allowed myself to just stay here, soaking in the calm before the storm.

I stared back up at the ceiling, the weight of the day ahead slowly settling on my shoulders. A typical race weekend was demanding enough, but Monza brought an added layer of pressure and expectation. Yet, as my arm wrapped around Aria's waist, pulling her a bit closer, I reminded myself why I was so eager to face whatever the day would throw my way. Having her here with me made everything a little easier, a little lighter.

She shifted slightly, her nose brushing against my skin, and I felt warmth rush through me. I pressed a light kiss to the top of her head, letting my lips linger in her hair. Soon, we'd have to get up, get dressed, and dive headfirst into the whirlwind of commitments.

A smile tugged at my lips as I thought back to last night. It was supposed to be a date night, but instead, it turned into something even more special...an evening surrounded by love, laughter, and family. My heart swelled at the memory of my maman wrapping Aria in a warm, long hug, and the way Aria melted into it. There was something so genuine in the way they connected, as if my family had known her for years.

Aria had fit in seamlessly, laughing at Arthur's jokes, chatting effortlessly with Charlotte and Carla, and even sharing little moments with Lorenzo. Watching it all unfold made me realize how much it meant to have everyone I love get along with the woman I adore. It wasn't just a dinner...it felt like a new chapter.

Seeing Aria smile throughout the evening, despite everything she's been through, filled me with a sense of peace. It reminded me of the importance of family, of being surrounded by people who support and care for you unconditionally. And seeing my maman's approval in the way she spoke to Aria made my chest tighten with emotion. It was like she knew, without words, how much Aria means to me. And knowing that Aria felt the warmth of my family too, especially after all she's endured, made the evening feel perfect.

As I held Aria a little closer this morning, I knew that moments like these, sharing life's simple joys together, were what I wanted more of. I'd face any chaos the day threw at me as long as I had this to come back to...always.

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞

"Charles! Charles!" The yells of the Tifosi rang out the moment Aria and I stepped out of the hotel, hand in hand. Their energy was contagious, and I couldn't help but smile at the sea of red flags and Ferrari merch. Aria squeezed my hand gently, her support always grounding me even within the chaos.

We paused for a moment so I could take a few photos with fans, signing some hats and posters. Aria stayed close, offering a warm smile to the fans, and I could see how much they appreciated her being there. It felt like a homecoming, being surrounded by so many passionate people who love Ferrari as much as I do.

Carlos followed closely behind, waving and stopping for his own fans. He flashed a smirk as he caught up with us, the friendship between us easy and fun. The three of us made our way to the waiting van, slipping inside as the Tifosi continued to cheer outside.