Max Verstappen, a three-time World Champion, is drowning under the weight of his father's abuse, the pressure of perfection, and a lifetime of repressed emotions. Charles Leclerc, his fiercest rival on track, notices the cracks in Max's armor and slowly becomes his lifeline.
As their rivalry turns into an unexpected friendship-and then something deeper-Max battles internalized homophobia, panic attacks, and suicidal ideation. Meanwhile, Charles struggles with his own demons, including the guilt of loving the man he was supposed to hate.
Their relationship is tested by public scrutiny, toxic family dynamics, and their own fears, but in the end, they learn that love-and forgiveness-can be stronger than pain.
If Clarity's in Death, Then Why Won't This Die? // Lestappen
31 parts Complete
31 parts
Complete
"Max doesn't know what to say. His eyes draw over every inch of Charles's face. His green eyes with brown specks, the sweat dripping down his face, his lips curled in a small smile... "If only you saw yourself the way all of us do. The way I do."
Max and Charles have been circling around one another ever since they can remember. Heading into the 2024 season, Max doesn't know if he can keep his feelings locked inside for much longer.
Canonically follows the entire 2024 F1 season, with chapters posted after every race. Completed.
Sequel in 2025!