Thanks to Norris

part 41- event

On Wednesday afternoon, you and Charles found a quiet café tucked away from the city's buzz. The sun was starting to dip lower, casting a warm glow through the windows as you both settled in with fresh coffees. The moment felt rare and peaceful—a chance to step away from the hectic pace of the race weekend and just enjoy some downtime.

You glanced across at Charles, who seemed more relaxed than you'd seen in weeks.

You: "So, how's everything going with Josi? She seemed really happy the last time I heard from her."

Charles smiled softly, the kind of smile that reached his eyes.

Charles: "Yeah, things are good. It's still early days, but I like where it's heading. She's amazing — keeps me grounded in all the chaos."

You nodded, taking a slow sip of your coffee.

You: "She's great. I can see why you're smitten. Just don't forget to tell her how lucky she is too."

Charles laughed, the tension easing from his shoulders.

Charles: "Oh, I'm well aware. Definitely counting my lucky stars."

The conversation drifted naturally—from racing to life, to those unexpected moments off-track that made everything worthwhile. Outside, the city carried on with its unique energy—a blend of laid-back charm and international flair—perfect for a moment like this.

As evening fell, you both left the café and headed toward the venue for the joint event hosted by Mercedes, McLaren, and Williams. The space was buzzing with energy as team members, sponsors, and drivers mingled. The friendly rivalry between the teams mixed with an unmistakable camaraderie—the shared passion for the sport always bringing everyone together.

While mingling, you pulled out your phone to catch up on some messages and noticed a series of fan edits circulating online—videos and photos of you and Lando as kids, racing karts and growing up together. You smiled, watching a funny compilation that showed the two of you as youngsters, helmets oversized, full of wide-eyed dreams.

Just then, Lewis, your teammate, caught sight of your screen.

Lewis: "Watching your fan club highlights, huh?"

You laughed, showing him the video.

You: "Yeah, someone made this whole mini-movie about me and Lando—like we're childhood rivals turned teammates."

Lewis grinned, leaning in to watch.

Lewis: "Man, the internet really loves you guys. That music's like an action movie soundtrack."

The two of you shared a laugh, the moment grounding you amid the buzz of the event.

Lewis: "It's wild seeing how far you've come from those days. You've got to find those quiet moments like earlier today, otherwise this life will swallow you whole."

You nodded, appreciating the reminder.

You: "Yeah, those moments with Charles today were exactly what I needed."

Lewis gave you a knowing look.

Lewis: "Good. Keep your head and heart in the right place — and maybe tell Lando to approve those edits before they go viral."

You chuckled, the tension of the day easing as the evening carried on—surrounded by familiar faces, fierce competition, and the unshakeable bonds that made it all worthwhile.