We're just friends...or are we.? |[ carlando]|

" new chapter together.... " - 43

~ last chapter for the day!

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Tuesday morning dawned, and Carlos and Lando slowly got out of bed, going about their usual morning routines. Lando, still recovering from his cold, looked at his reflection in the mirror and sighed. He still felt slightly under the weather,

but he knew he couldn’t delay the meeting at McLaren HQ any longer. Carlos leaned against the bathroom doorframe, watching Lando comb his hair.

- “Are you sure you’re feeling okay, amor?”

Carlos asked, his concern clear.

- “I’ll be fine,”

Lando replied, turning to Carlos with a small smile.

- “It’s just a meeting. I’ll come back as soon as I can.”

Carlos frowned, crossing his arms.

- “I still think you should rest more. Zak can wait.”

Lando chuckled softly, stepping closer and pressing a quick kiss to Carlos’s lips.

- “I appreciate it, but I have to go. I’ll be back before you even notice I’m gone.”

Carlos sighed, letting his arms fall to his sides.

- “Alright, but text me if anything happens. And don’t push yourself too hard.”

Lando nodded, grabbed his keys, and left the apartment, leaving Carlos watching him go with a mix of pride and worry.

At McLaren HQ, Lando parked his car and hesitated for a moment before stepping inside. Despite convincing himself it was just a routine meeting, he couldn’t shake the nervous energy buzzing in his chest.

Was this about his recent announcement? Did the team have an issue with it? He pushed the thoughts aside as he climbed the stairs and entered the main meeting room.

The meeting itself was straightforward, with Zak and the team praising both Lando and Oscar for their strong performances in the championship.

They commended their efforts and teamwork, emphasizing their contribution to the Constructors’ Championship fight. Lando nodded and smiled, his nerves settling as the focus remained on racing.

After the meeting ended, Lando lingered behind, deciding to speak to Zak privately. He approached Zak’s office and knocked lightly before stepping in. Zak looked up, smiling warmly.

- “Lando! Good to see you. How’re you feeling?”

Zak asked, gesturing for him to take a seat.

- “Better,”

Lando said, sitting down.

- “I just wanted to talk about...you know, everything. The post, Carlos, going public…”

Zak chuckled and stood, walking over to clap a hand on Lando’s shoulder.

- “You’ve got nothing to worry about, mate. I’m proud of you for being true to yourself and being open about your relationship. That takes guts.”

Lando blinked in surprise.

- “Really? I was worried it might cause problems with the team or...you know, sponsors.”

Zak shook his head firmly.

- “Not at all. What matters is your performance on the track, and you’ve shown time and time again that you’re one of the best. Just promise me this won’t distract you from giving it your all, yeah?”