Same but... different (Lestappen and Carlando)

Chapter 66

POV: Carlos

— And now, please welcome Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz!

Monza. It's my first year getting to experience the craziness of the tifosi as a Ferrari driver. First in Imola, at the beginning of the year, and now here, in the temple of speed. I feel dizzy just looking at the red sea swarming us every time we set a foot outside, and cheering on us, chanting our names relentlessly.

— Ciao a tutti, I say to the crowd, perched on the fanzone stage.

It's always an intense week, in terms of events to attend, videos to record, pictures to take. But I wouldn't trade that for anything, the feeling of raw admiration floating in the air just so amazing.

We answer a bunch of questions, throwing caps in the roaring crowd in front of us before leaving. Sometimes, I could almost get scared of how much passion there is, how many people ready to jump on you, even if it's for the most wholesome reasons.

— It's crazy huh? Charles tells me once we go back to the garage, readjusting his cap.

— Yeah, they really love Ferrari, don't they? I chuckle, looking at the serious expression on his face.

— For a reason, Ferrari is life Carlos. His dramatic voice makes me roll my eyes, a smile plastered on my face. And as someone very wise once said, everybody's a Ferrari fan. Some are just more passionate than others. I mean, even me, if I didn't believe in the team, I wouldn't be here. And I intend to stay for as long as I can, trust me.

— So you're one of them, huh? Do you have one of these candles with your face on it in your room too?

As I see Charles getting slightly pissed off, I burst out laughing, before giving him a pat on the back. I know he's not really annoyed with me, we like teasing each other from time to time and that was the perfect occasion. And I'm sure he'll get some revenge from this joke later, in one way or another.

I take advantage of the proximity between our garage and McLaren's to try and find Lando, hoping to see him one last time before going back to my hotel. Unfortunately, we're staying very far from each other this weekend, and with the tifosi's attention I definitely can't risk anything.

— Hey, do you mind if I go talk to Lando quickly? I catch his trainer on the way inside, blushing slightly at his smug grin.

— Sure, he's in his room, but don't wear him out too much, yeah?

Understanding the deeper meaning, my eyes widen and I quickly escape the situation, almost rushing down the corridor. Damn, I knew he was suspicious ever since that one time we've met at Lando's door, but still.

— Come in! My boyfriend's voice instructs me as I knock.

As soon as I enter, I notice the unusual silence in the room, usually filled with music. Tilting my head, I look interrogatively at Lando, waiting for an answer to the silent question.

— Oh, huh... I'm just...

Noticing how tense he looks, I immediately go to take him in my arms, hoping to bring some comfort against whatever put him in such state.

— What is it cariño? I know I've barely had time for you this week, with how crazy it is here, but you know you can call me anytime if you need something right? Please tell me what's going on.

As I guide us to the sofa in the corner of the room, I hear a faint sigh and my heart tightens. I hate seeing my baby like that, it breaks me probably as much as it breaks him.