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

" begin their future together.... " - 54

~ sorry for the late post. I've been working a lot this week and I have a presentation tomorrow.

But we finally seen Carlos in a Williams! Lowkey had to rub my eyes two times to make sure it was real 😔
——

Monday morning arrived with a sense of anticipation. Carlos was up earlier than usual, eager yet nervous about the post-season testing session with Williams. 

He dressed in casual jeans and a white shirt, keeping his outfit simple. Before leaving, he leaned over to kiss Lando gently on the head, careful not to wake him. Abby stirred slightly, but Lando remained sound asleep. 

The drive to the paddock was peaceful, the early morning sun casting a warm glow over the familiar yet soon-to-be-different scenery. 

Carlos arrived and was greeted warmly by the Williams team. The atmosphere was relaxed but professional, with his new teammates keen to make him feel at home. 

His father and a few close friends joined him for moral support, their presence calming his nerves. 

Williams handed him a pristine white race suit and helmet, both unmarked except for his signature number. Contract restrictions with Ferrari meant no blue just yet. 

Slipping into the Williams car felt surreal. The cockpit was unfamiliar, and the sea of blue around him was a stark contrast to Ferrari's iconic red. 

As the engineers gave the go-ahead, Carlos rolled out onto the track. The engine hummed differently, and the car handled uniquely compared to his previous rides. 

He started cautiously, his initial laps slower than usual as he adjusted to the car's feel and nuances. 

Lap after lap, his confidence grew. By the end of the first hour, his times were competitive, nearly matching those of Franco and Alex. 

His engineers radioed in with updates and encouragement, their excitement evident as Carlos settled into a rhythm. 

After two hours, Carlos completed the testing session. His final laps were fast and consistent, a testament to his adaptability and skill. 

Climbing out of the car, Carlos was met with smiles and handshakes. His new team was clearly impressed, and the camaraderie was already beginning to form. 

They gathered in the team room to review data. The engineers highlighted areas of improvement while also praising Carlos for his quick adaptation. 

Laughter filled the room as Carlos joined in on some jokes, easing the formality of the meeting. 

It was clear that Williams was eager to welcome him fully, and Carlos felt a renewed sense of excitement for the upcoming season. 

After cleaning up and changing back into his casual clothes, Carlos said goodbye to his new team. 

The drive back to the hotel was peaceful, the satisfaction of a productive day settling in. 

As he entered the hotel room, Abby greeted him with boundless energy, barking and wagging her tail. Carlos chuckled and bent down to pet her. 

Lando appeared moments later, a warm smile on his face as he walked up to Carlos.

- "How was it?"

Lando asked, his voice full of curiosity. 

Carlos sighed, his smile softening as he looked at Lando.

- "It was...different. But good. They're a great team, and the car has potential."