Thanks to Norris

part 51- home race

Sunday – Race Day, Spielberg
Clear skies. Packed stands. Tension sharp like mountain air.

You walked through the paddock, helmet in hand, focused but calm. You had pole. You had momentum. And you had something else today—clarity.

As you turned a corner toward the grid, Zak Brown passed by. McLaren team gear, sunglasses, relaxed smile.

Zak:
"Pole position in Austria. Not bad at all."

You smiled, a little surprised.

You:
"Appreciate it, Zak."

He paused.

Zak (genuine):
"No matter what badge's on your chest — still rooting for you. Always was."

Then he gave your shoulder a quick pat and moved on.

In the Mercedes Garage — Pre-Race Brief

You ducked into the garage briefly to speak to Toto about final strategy. He was already there, hands on the pit wall rail, eyes scanning data.

He turned as you approached.

Toto:
"You don't need a pep talk. You know what to do."
(beat)
"But just so it's said — I believe in you. Anyway, always have."

You swallowed down the nerves. Smiled.

You:
"Danke, Toto. Let's finish this right."

He nodded once, firm. The conversation was short. But it stayed with you.

Drivers' Parade – Late Morning

The parade lap felt surreal — fans roaring, flags waving, your face on big screens. You waved, smiled, gave a few fist bumps to marshals at the edge of the track. But your mind was already halfway to Turn 1.

Then it was done.
The classic cars pulled in. The anthem played. Engines were warming.

And through the haze of motion, you saw them—your parents.

Waiting just past the parade drop-off. Beaming. Proud.

You made your way to them automatically, letting the crowd noise fall away.

Your mom held your arm gently. Your dad tucked something in your suit collar — a quiet good luck charm he'd done since you were in karts.

But before you could pull away, you saw their eyes shift past your shoulder.

And then your mom waved someone over.

You turned.

Lando.

You both hesitated for the smallest second.
A glance.
A half-smile.
Both thinking, Why is this happening?
Both thinking, Why does this feel okay?

He walked over slowly. No awkwardness. Just... something strange but familiar.

The moment melted into something unexpected.
You and Lando, side by side, heading toward the Mercedes garage area, your parents behind like it was completely normal.

You said something.
He answered.

And suddenly... the edge was gone.

No rivalry. No drama. No unsaid things swallowing the air.
Just conversation. Light. Easy.

Like friends.
Maybe again. Maybe still.

Your parents hugged him before you did anything. Your dad even clapped him on the back like Lando was still that kid who used to hang around your motorhome and steal your snacks.