[3] MARANELLO || C. LECLERC

THREE

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CAMILLE

I could feel the butterflies becoming uncontrollable in my stomach as the final few laps loomed, Charles and Sebastian so close to one another on the track as they battled for position. I was so desperate for him to do well, because he deserved it, but the battle between both Ferrari teammates was becoming intense and I was worried. I didn't want Charles to make a bad move and for his whole race to be ruined.

I'd flown out to Brazil for the Grand Prix only with Max and Charles. Victoria was working and Dilara was studying, Cate was back at home in Italy waiting for Pierre to fly back out to France and meet him there. Everybody was preparing themselves for the final race in Abu Dhabi which would roll around in two weeks time. I was sad to see the 2019 season come to an end; a year which brought us tremendous pain and heartbreak, but also so much joy and happiness. Everybody at the circuit missed Anthoine deeply and I continued to see the impact it had on Charles. However, he'd endured some brilliant achievements which he had to be proud of, because I was totally over the moon about everything Charles had managed to do. He was amazing, such a kind and caring soul, and I loved him more than anyone or anything else in the world. I was so honoured to be his fiancée.

My heart stopped when I saw the clash between Sebastian and my beautiful boy, jumping up from my seat as my stomach seemed to drop, my hand flying over my mouth. I felt sick as I watched Charles' tyre fall to pieces, whilst he seemed to lose control of the car, before heading towards the barrier at the side of the track.

"No, no, no." I muttered beneath my breath, pushing the headset away from my ears and glancing down at the mechanics who watched the screens nervously. I knew that this would end in a DNF for both drivers - a pretty poor way to end the penultimate race of the season - and it would also lead to some tension at Ferrari. I crossed my fingers as I rushed towards the mechanics, my heart pounding against my chest as I waited for them to breathe a sigh of relief. The cameras turned to Charles' car and I noticed the movement of his fist as he hit the wheel. I was so glad that he was okay. All I ever wanted was for him to be okay. I let out a soft sigh of relief and cupped my mouth before stepping backwards. Before I knew it, Andrea was by my side, placing his hand on my shoulder.

"He'll be heading back over and then he'll disappear with Mia for a bit, but he's okay. I know how desperate he will be to see you," Andrea's words calmed me down as I allowed him to wrap his arms around me and pull me into his embrace. I'd not realised that my whole being seemed to freeze up and I'd zoned out a little. My heart was pounding against my chest; but I struggled to notice because I was too caught up in hoping that Charles was okay. "You can breathe now, Camille. Charles is alright."

"Sorry." I shook my head, whilst burying my face further into his chest. Over the period of mine and Charles' relationship, I'd inevitably become much closer to his trainer. I was relieved to know that even when Charles was in the car, I would always have somebody around to comfort me if I needed it, and the person I always went to without thought was Andrea. Mia and I were good friends, of course, but even during the race, she never seemed to stop, and I didn't want to get in the way of her duties. Running around after my boyfriend was her job, after all.

I chewed on my lip as I returned to my seat, Andrea patting my back and ensuring to stay with me until Charles was clear of his car. I was so relieved to see him walking around without aid; he looked okay and I was so glad about that. I sat patiently in the garage, with my hands resting in my lap as I thought about kissing Charles when he returned. I couldn't wait to taste the sweet feeling of his warm lips and I was desperate to cup his cheeks with my fingers as he held me close. As much as I loved travelling to different races throughout the year, I was truly excited for the winter break and to celebrate Christmas in Monaco with my family, Charles' and Max's, too. Mama, Sophie, Pascale, Victoria, Dilara and I promised to prepare and cook Christmas lunch, whilst the boys set the table, but mostly relaxed. Charles told me that he wouldn't be able to leave me alone, the thought of me working in the kitchen sent his mind on a tangent whenever he tried to think straight. He was so cheeky, but I let it slide and I simply tried to contain my excitement for Christmas Day.