Beyond the Track - Oscar Piastri bxb

Heartbeats in the Quiet

Oscar could still feel the ghost of Nicks hand on his shoulder, the soft warmth of his lips lingering even as he made his way back to the hotel. He walked slowly, savouring the night air, hoping that if he stayed outside a little longer, the buzz of adrenaline and nerves would settle. But it didn't- it only grew, a mix of excitement and disbelief.

The hotel lobby was almost empty, quiet in the late hour. He slipped through unnoticed, his mind still replaying every detail. The memory made his heart race, and he was glad for the empty elevator ride, where he could close his eyes for a moment and let himself feel everything.

Once he reached his room, he sank onto the edge of the bed, running a hand through his hair. He hasn't expected this, not tonight, not with Nick. But the kiss had felt... right, in a way he couldn't explain.

Oscar glanced at his phone, half expecting a message from Nick, and sure enough, there it was: a simple not, making sure he'd gotten back safely, but it made it heart skip all the same.

Nick: Hey. Thanks again for tonight. Hope you got back okay.

Oscar smiled, replying with a quick response, his fingers hovering over the keyboard longer than usual as he tried to find the right words.

Oscar: Made it back. And yeah, thank you. Tonight was something special. See you tomorrow?

As soon as he hit send, he let out a deep breath, feeling a thrill at the thought of seeing Nick again. For once, he wouldn't have to hide behind the usual racing talk or team dynamics. Nick knew him beyond all that, and it was both thrilling and terrifying.

He set his phone down, leaning back against the headboard, staring up at the ceiling as he tried to make sense of everything. Racing had always been his focus, his way of channeling everything he had. And yet here he was, after a race, thinking not of his win, not of the podium, but of a quiet night with Nick.

His phone buzzed again, his heart racing as he read Nick's name.

Nick: Definitely. Goodnight Oscar.

Oscar smiled to himself, feeling an unexpected warmth at the simple exchange. Oscar hadn't expected to feel this way. He'd always thought he'd keep his focus on his career, pushing aside anything that might complicate his single minded path. But now, for the first time, he was questioning that. Maybe there was room for something else- for someone else.

As he closed his eyes, he let himself drift, remembering the way Nick had looked at him, his gaze soft and understanding. It was a look that made Oscar feel seen, not as a driver, not as a competitor, but as just... himself.