Racing Hearts : VOLUME 2

Chapter 6: Family Ties

Part 1: The Trip to Monaco


Two months after the camping, Mark and Charles had grown closer than ever. Their road trip had become a cherished memory, filled with laughter, late-night talks, and the occasional tent disaster. As they settled back into the routine of racing, the idea of taking a break together took shape.

"Why don't we stay in Monaco after the next race?" Charles suggested one evening as they prepared for practice. "It'll be nice to relax at home and celebrate."Mark raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on his face. "Are you inviting me to your family home? Isn't that a bit too intimate?"

Charles shrugged, his expression teasing. "Don't get any weird ideas. It's just easier than booking a hotel."

"Sure, just say you want me to meet your parents," Mark teased, nudging Charles with his elbow.After a week of planning, they had settled on the idea. The race in Monaco would serve as the perfect backdrop for a little post-race celebration. They booked their flights, excited for the upcoming adventure.

---On the day of their departure, they arrived at the airport, buzzing with excitement. Charles checked in while Mark grabbed snacks from a nearby kiosk. As they boarded the plane, they found their seats together.

"Do you think we'll have any time to explore?" Mark asked, settling in and adjusting his seatbelt."Definitely. But first, we have a race to win," Charles replied, a determined look in his eyes. "You better not embarrass me."

"Please, I'm just here to steal the show," Mark shot back, grinning.

As the plane took off, Mark quickly succumbed to the fatigue of the past few weeks. He leaned back in his seat, eyes fluttering shut. Charles watched him for a moment, a fond smile gracing his lips.

When the air hostess came around to serve refreshments, Charles made sure to gently nudge Mark awake. "Hey buddy, snack time."

Mark stirred, blinking up at Charles, who held a tray of drinks. "You didn't have to wake me up for this," he mumbled, stifling a yawn.

"Of course I did. You need to eat," Charles said, handing Mark a juice box with a playful grin. "Besides, I'm not letting you starve on my watch."

Mark chuckled, accepting the drink. "You're so sweet, Leclerc."

"Shut up," Charles replied, a hint of pink creeping up his cheeks as he turned away, hiding his smile.

---

The flight went by quickly, filled with more teasing and banter as they swapped stories and laughed about the absurdities of their lives. Before they knew it, they were descending toward the dazzling Mediterranean landscape of Monaco.

Upon landing, they collected their bags, but reality hit as they made their way out of the airport. "Alright, time to part ways," Charles said, glancing at his phone. "We have to head to our team hotel."

Mark felt a pang of disappointment. "I guess I'll see you after the race?"