FP1,FP2 – 16.JUN

And before we know it, it's time for Canadian Grand Prix week. 24 of Le Mans was won by Ferrari, and this gave me hope for the upcoming weekend in Canada. Maybe the whole team needed motivation and hope that we can handle it, be fast on the track and overcome every single challenge that fate throws at us. I was one of the first to contact Giovinazzi to congratulate him, along with the rest of our team there. I even spoke to my sworn enemy - Antonio Fuoco, but the thing that could unite the most disunited teammates was victory.

On the matter of Charles... We've been sending each other a few AM messages again. Recently, he preferred to write to me at that time, and I was always awake... And I answered him. But if I happened to fall asleep, I would quickly send two or three messages during the day but would constantly check to see if I had any new messages from him as well. Our relationship was quite strange, I could not even understand it. He was always interested in how my day was, if everything was okay with me, if I ate and... if Carlos was with me. Never mind he was almost constantly around me.

Speaking of Carlos, things have been slow and easy with him. He took me golfing, on a fancy restaurant, we watched Le Mans together (this guy stayed up the whole day and night because I insisted on watching every moment of the race and he decided to sympathize with my insomnia), and at the beginning of the week the Spaniard sent me to the airport to fly back to Italy.

He offered to come with me, even insisted on doing it, but I wanted to be alone for a while this time, under the pretext that I would mentally prepare for the upcoming Grand Prix. I actually wanted to rethink what was happening to me and how I was going to proceed. Even on my return to Italy I turned off my phone and had absolutely no contact with anyone for about 24 hours. Total detox from people and relationships. And during that time, I reread the princess's diary and Chess' letters to her, while I looked at the bracelet on my arm and the brooch from Carlos. I couldn't believe that Charles came across this bracelet at an antique store and bought it for me. I didn't want to take it down of my hand because I knew it was related to Chess... But also, to Charles. And how the ruby ​​from the brooch had gotten into Carlos was an absolute mystery to me. If we didn't count the one the Princess of Bahrain had, I had already found 4 of the rubies. No one knew about my secret mission, neither Charles nor Carlos, and they were some of the people who unwittingly helped me put together a few of the pieces of my "puzzle". I was beginning to think that Chess Player and I really had some kind of relation, and he was directing me where to go. And I tried more and more to contact him, as if I was really getting answers to my questions. Which was wierd, but a fact - my bracelet flashed, sometimes I felt the warm breeze on my back...

#

On Tuesday afternoon, while I was packing, Carlos surprised me and came to my apartment. The Spaniard had booked tickets for me and him on a direct flight from Milan to Montreal. He wanted us to spend some time together before going to the circuit, so he come all the way to Modena and arrange a direct flight for just the two of us, without Rupert and the rest of 'Team 55'. He had rented a car with which we went to Milan. There we had dinner in a rather fancy restaurant and late in the evening we went to the airport, where of course we stopped for a coffee and a croissant before the flight. We all knew how Sainz fights jet lag but this time luckily it was only an 8-hour flight that we had to endure awake.

#

Wednesday morning, we arrived in Montreal. We checked into the hotel - still in separate rooms - and that was fine for me. I was worried about being together all the time, nothing was completely official yet, even after I agreed to "try", in my heart I still hadn't categorized my feelings, what would happen when Vasseur found out, just I don't think so. Carlos was seething with energy, as if he had an eternal engine inside him, the power of which was inexhaustible. He even went to work out while I stayed in my room to get some sleep and recharge. Still, I was in for a strategic weekend.

I woke up to a text from Carlos after his workout outside. He had run roughly 10 kilometers and was sending me those cute sweaty post-workout photos where his hair looked enviably good and every muscle on his body was toned to the max. I replied with a photo from the bed, then with a heavy sigh I placed the phone on my chest as if I was hugging him. I was lost in thought.

I got up from my bed and went to the window. It was cold and cloudy in Montreal, I was really hoping it wouldn't be a wet weekend, but it was bound to happen. I don't know why I looked at my phone for other messages and this time it wasn't for this from Carlos. I was secretly hoping to see Charles' name. But there was still no news from him. I pursed my lips and sighed. I don't know what I expected or hoped for. I was supposedly trying to get my life together and now I had to focus on Carlos, who asked me to try, and I agreed. But I continued to secretly have some hopes and expectations from Charles.

With a great deal of disappointment in my soul, I tossed the phone aside and went to the bathroom to take a long, hot shower, suitable for thinking.

About an hour later, I was ready, changed into a pair of wide-leg cotton pants, a baggy t-shirt, and a sweatshirt, complete with bottoms. I decided to visit Sainz to surprise him. We had both exchanged the second cards from our rooms so that we could enter freely, so I quickly headed for his room. Before entering, I stopped in front of the door, looked around to make sure there was no one around to see me, then I exhaled deeply, mustered up the courage, and entered.

- Carlos - I called him. - Are you here?

I heard the shower water, which stopped when I entered. I stepped into the bedroom and suddenly the bathroom door opened, from which the Spaniard walked out in a cloud of steam, with only a white towel wrapped around his waist.

I gasped at the sight of him. His muscular, swarthy body was covered in tiny droplets of water, his hair was unruly disheveled on all sides, strands of it stuck to his wet forehead, and the veins on his arms were outlined. He looked so divinely, rousingly sexy, it made my heart skip a beat, then pound faster.

I swallowed hard and got embarrassed. In two weeks in Spain, I did not come across this sight that I now have in a few hours in Canada.

- Lissie, mi Muñeca! - he exclaimed and approached me with a big smile. - I didn't expect you to be here.

- I wanted to surprise you - I smiled.

- You sure did...

He grabbed my hands and pulled me gently against him, a lustful smile curled on his face.

- Sainz you are wet! - I laughed. – And I just got changed.

- We can fix this mistake - he laughed and cupped my face with his hands.

I timidly put my hands on his wet tight chest and shivered. My heart started beating even more crazy, I felt so strange, but at the same time it was nice. He was provoking me. I ran my hands around his neck and entwined my fingers in his wet hair. Carlos took this as a sign and leaned in, bringing our lips together in a passionate kiss. It always felt like the first time, it gave me a nice and sweet pleasure. The kiss deepened gradually until we reached the bed. My back rested against the soft mattress and Carlos pulled away from my lips to continue kissing my neck. I opened my eyes for a second and my eyes fell on the bracelet on my hand. And that seemed to stop me.

- Carlos, you're going to wet my clothes - I mumbled breathlessly.

- Clothes only get in the way anyway - he whispered between kisses on my neck, carefully unzipping my sweatshirt.

I couldn't help myself and moaned slightly as he bit the skin on my neck. He giggled and gently tugged at the neckline of my blouse to leave traces of his soft lips on my collarbones.

- But Carlos, weren't you supposed to work with Charles? - I asked, remembering that even on the plane he had mentioned to me about some interview that the two drivers had to film during their stay in Montreal.

- I have plenty of time before that - the Spaniard whispered and suddenly his hand crept under my t-shirt and his lips returned to mine.

- Carlos, you have to be punctual for your work commitments - I said, barely catching my breath between our passionate kisses.

- My dear, let me distract both of us from thinking about work - he rolled his eyes.

I had to think fast to escape this situation.

- But I wanted to get something to eat because I'm hungry - I said shyly.

- Lissa, hungry?! - Sainz exclaimed and pulled away from me slightly. - I can't believe you're saying that! We can order room service and continue with what we started.

He kissed my lips passionately, but I pulled away and smiled.

- I would like to go outside...

- Lissie, darling, it's raining outside... - Sainz ran his fingers through his wet hair.

Darling... It brought me back to Charles and held me back even more.

- Well, it will stop at some point... - I shrugged.

Sainz sighed and pulled away from me. He probably picked up on my attempts to stop him, so he frowned slightly. I smiled embarrassed, trying to placate him, then he said:

- I'll go get dressed, princess, and after I return from my work commitments, I'll also bring you food...

And he headed for his closet, and I laid on my back in his bed and stared at the ceiling. It was like I was living in a parallel reality. This fear of love, I had to overcome it, but with whom. The whole problem was that I was afraid of being abandoned, betrayed... To believe and then be disappointed. Carlos was taking things quite as they should be for two people in a relationship, but it took me a while to realize that I was indeed in a relationship with one of the most desirable bachelors in Spain, with a handsome, gifted man in every way, who by all accounts wanted me and had feelings for me. He was so polite to me, literally doing everything for me, accepting even my slightly distant behavior without grumbling. I was sad that I still couldn't break down the wall I had put up between us, never mind that we exchanged kisses and caresses, but he was always the one who initiated them. And my thoughts always turned to Charles, no matter what I did, saw, or heard. There was always something to remind me of him.

Carlos changed into skinny inky blue jeans and a milky gray long sleeve blouse that showed off every curve of his muscular body. I turned to him and raised myself on my elbows to see him better. Then smiled as soon as our eyes met.

- I'll have to change again - I remarked. - This tracksuit doesn't match your outfit at all.

- I can just go with Caco and find you something to eat - Sainz sat down next to me and smiled.

- Won't you take me with you? - I asked embarrassed.

- Muñeca, I can't risk you getting cold and overworked before the weekend in this terrible weather today - he said, caressing my face. - We will go with Caco, and I will bring you food.

I looked outside, it wasn't raining anymore but it looked cold, then I looked at my silent phone and sighed. If it was Charles, he would probably take me with him...

- Okay, go with Caco, you're cousins ​​after all and he's your manager... - I said bitterly. - I have nothing to do there...

- Muñeca - he cut me off, cupping my face in his huge hands. - You are part of the family now, don't forget it!

I've heard it once before... from Charles. And that made me even more sad.

Carlos leaned down and kissed my lips gently, interrupting his thoughts about his teammate. When we parted, the Spaniard gently rubbed the tip of his nose against mine and smiled.

- See you later, Muñeca! - he whispered.

Sainz got out of bed, kissed my forehead one last time and left the room, leaving me alone. I leaned back and sighed heavily. Why was the situation so complicated?

#

I watched the arrival of Charles through the window of my room. He parked a beautiful red Ferrari and got out with Joris. I smiled unconsciously and my heart skipped a beat when I saw him. He looked very tired from the time difference. He hadn't written to me in a day, that had never happened before. I more or less realized that I missed traveling with him and his company. Did they have as much fun as when we flew to Australia and fought the time difference...

I continued to stand at the window, so as not to be tempted to leave the room and run into Charles. I felt very confused. All that time I imagined what it would be like if I traveled with them. We probably would have fitted in a bigger car to get to the airport, then 8 hours of fun with different games on the plane... But we both chose different paths, me because of Vasseur, to protect both myself and Charles, and he... Well, for him, I have no idea why. Apparently, he didn't find what Carlos found in me. And then he says he will fight for me. How?

Soon after Leclerc came Carlos, with the white Ferrari. Caco was carrying a paper bag, with the logo of a restaurant, which probably contained the food I ordered. It was a mystery what they chose for me. I wish Carlos had the same ability as Charles to know what dish I would like, or I would be starving.

#

It rained during the night, and I slept at Carlos's place. But I was only sleeping. I felt too tired to go back to my room after eating the great beef and potatoes that Carlos brought me. And then I used the bed and his hug for the night. The next morning Carlos was up before me while I barely peeled my eyelids off. Obviously, I would still be fighting jet lag and Sainz I have no idea where he got that energy from.

When I woke up, he was finalizing his outfit in the bathroom and the door was wide open, so everything was visible. The Spaniard was dressed in a baggy white Ferrari T-shirt and skinny jeans, and with the hairstyle he was currently trying to do, he was reminiscent of the outlaw Flynn Rider. It was the first time I saw my friend in something oversized. But I liked it. Sainz instinctively turned in my direction and when he saw that I was awake, he came out of the bathroom and walked over to me. Of course, he sat on the edge of the bed and kissed me passionately.

- Good morning, Muñeca! - he whispered against my lips.

- Smooth operator - I smiled and stood up in bed. - You are a very early riser.

- It doesn't happen often - he smiled. - But I wanted to be ready before you and wake you up so we can go to breakfast together.

- Carlos, you know that I often skip breakfast - I shook my head and cracked my neck.

- You and Charles are so strange! - he exclaimed and laughed in disbelief. - He eats little, and you at all... No, no, I will not accept refusal. Today you are with me and "Team 55", maybe tonight we can go to a massage together. I don't like the sound of your neck.

I gave him a quizzical look, biting my lower lip. He mentions Leclerc again. Is he doing it on purpose...

- I'll think about it - I replied and played with my manicure.

- There's nothing to think about here, Muñeca - he lifted my chin slightly to ensure eye contact between us.

- Why Muñeca? - I asked, still eyeing him suspiciously.

- It means doll - replied the Spaniard and smiled. - It describes you most accurately... With those beautiful big eyes, a face as gentle as a porcelain doll and a fragile body... Yes, you are a living babydoll.

I remained silent and pursed my lips. And Charles used to call me "little one" and "darling"... Well, he used other names, but not "babydoll". And actually, how much I missed hearing Charles' voice and calling me by my nicknames.

- Well, Lissie, shall we go to breakfast? - Carlos interrupted my thoughts. - We have to fit into our schedule for today.

- Good, I'm going to my room to change - I sighed heavily and got out of bed. - Shall we wait for the elevator?

- Great! - exclaimed my friend and also stood up.

Carlos pulled me to him and kissed me gently. We parted with a small smile and then I grabbed my phone from the nightstand and headed to my room.

#

Sainz and "Team 55" were indeed waiting for me at the elevator. I felt bad for taking so long - while I was showering and getting my outfit ready, it took a long time. We all went down to breakfast together. What struck me in the elevator was that I was the only one in the red uniform, and I felt even more strange. I used to be the only person on our team who almost disapproved of the Ferrari T-shirts we were required to wear to work, and now I looked like our team's biggest supporter. And on top of that, with that signal red, I was attracting all the eyes of the people in the hotel. If you ever wonder what a stupid person is, remember me...

Carlos took a huge plate full of pancakes with fruit and honey, freshly squeezed orange juice and a cappuccino. Since I went to reserve a table outside on the terrace, he decided he would choose for me what to have for breakfast... Besides my favorite cappuccino. As I sat at the table to guard Sainz's pancakes and Caco's coffee, I noticed at the far end of the terrace Charles and Andrea arriving looking for a table. My heart sank when I saw Leclerc, also wearing the red uniform. Well, at least now I wasn't the only Ferrari fan in the whole restaurant.

We both met our eyes. I missed those clear green-blue eyes looking at me happily, with hope and lust for love. Yes, now they glowed again as before when they saw me. But suddenly his mood changed, and Charles frowned, and I felt a hand on my back. I turned to see Sainz settling into the chair next to me. I brought my focus back to Leclerc and Andrea. The two of them exchanged a few lines, looking at me and shaking their heads, then headed to one of the empty tables at the back of the restaurant.

- Muñeca, is everything alright? - the Spaniard asked me, while I was still watching Leclerc, who sat down on one of the chairs facing me.

- Why wouldn't it be alright? - I asked my question without taking my eyes off Charles, who also stared at me with narrowed eyes.

- Because you didn't even pay attention to the slices of black bread and prosciutto - replied Carlos. - I thought this aroma would tempt you... Or the croissants Rupert brings you.

At that moment, Carlos' coach also sat opposite me, offering me about a dozen mini croissants. I got goosebumps, not at the sight of the appetizing food, but the moment Rupert turned in the direction I was looking and nodded meaningfully.

- I'm tempted, yes - I replied, putting on my sunglasses to hide this intense eye contact with Charles. - He tempts me a lot...

I turned to Sainz, who took out his phone to take a picture of his rich breakfast. I furrowed my eyebrows. His action was really weird, but sweet at the same time. He looked at me for a second and grinned goofily, then took a quick photo of me against the sun and wished me Bon Appetit. Caco and I exchanged surprised looks, then I took a sip of my coffee.

I looked over at Charles again - now he was on his phone scrolling like always. The next moment I got a message. From him. Fortunately, Rupert started talking to the company about the weekend training plan and distracted Carlos, so I took the moment to open my phone.

"I want to talk to you. In private. Today if possible."

I sighed and locked my screen. Then tapped my nails on the table, gulped down my coffee in one go and stood up.

- Carlos, I'm going to the paddock - I whispered in his ear.

- Muñeca, won't you at least finish your food? - he asked worriedly. – You haven't even touched it...

- I know, I know, but I'm worried it's going to rain - I replied. - I have to prepare plans, discuss the strategy with Mekies and...

- Wait for me at least so we can go together - he took my hand.

- We will go home together, promise - I caressed his shoulder. - See you later, Carlos!

- See you later, Muñeca!

I leaned down and kissed him on the cheek, then waved to Team 55 and headed for the restaurant exit without looking at Charles.

#

I took a taxi to the track, of course the Scuderia hadn't sponsored their strategist with some ultra-modern car... I wasn't even sure if I asked would they even sponsor me, but I could still try to ask if my boss was ever in a good mood. When I arrived and got out of the car, I immediately took out my pass and headed for the paddock entrance. It was located after a landscaped parking lot, crossing first a small pier, with high metal stairs. It was very strange walking in the water before reaching the track, but then my work for Formula 1 always surprised me with new and new things. And at the turnstiles I bumped into the hero of the team who was here this weekend - Antonio Giovinazzi. Everyone looked up to him as a deity, outside including me, who was extremely proud to know and be on close terms with a man with whose participation Ferrari's victory was realized after almost 50 years of lack of one. I admired that. We hugged like very close friends and then headed to the Scuderia hospitality to discuss the Le Mans race.

Despite the sunny emotions in our home, it was raining heavily. Our boys had a different schedule of media engagements, first it was Charles, then Carlos, and during that time I devoted myself to working on the weekend strategies. If it continued like this, it was shaping up to be a very boring one - either Inters or Wets. No tension, just the strategy of who will choose to change their tires first if it happens to stop or start raining during the race.

I attended the seat fitting, but this time I didn't communicate with any of the drivers other than to find out how they were feeling in the car. I don't know what I was trying to hide when the whole team from Spain was talking about me and Carlos, and I found out from Fusaro that they had previously placed bets on when Charles would start dating me. Well, perhaps that is why Vasseur reacted in this way and vetoed my communication with Leclerc. But the Monegasque himself tried to freeze our relations. Now I only allowed Giovinazzi and Fusaro to communicate more actively with me, as I fully trusted their competent opinion about our cars. After the seat fitting, the drivers had the traditional walk along the track, in order to get to know it. Carlos left with "Team 55" while I stayed in the garage to review the on-board computer data on my laptop. My idea was to test the track later by myself, and I didn't want to ride the bike in the rain.

And while I was reading the analysis, I suddenly felt someone's hands on my waist. I jumped to defend myself, but the person immediately stepped back.

- Good thing I don't have a phone in my hand right now - he laughed, and when I turned, I saw Charles' green-blue eyes shining happily in front of me.

- You predictably put a case on your new phone and put it in your pocket? - I pretended to gasp. - I cannot believe it.

- Pure coincidence - Leclerc smiled. - Do you work?

- Yes, and I will be late with my schedule if we talk a little longer - I replied, turning to the computer. - I have to finish the statistics and test the track.

- Along with the bikes? - he asked, stepping closer to me.

I glanced over my shoulder and frowned.

- My idea was to go alone...

- Come on Lissie... - begged the Monegasque. - Like in the good old days! Do you remember the last time you were in Baku? We got a podium and did the lap together...

I slammed the laptop shut and turned sharply to Charles.

- Then everything was different! - I replied scathingly.

- Do you really think like that? - he raised his eyebrows. - I am the same, you are the same... I can't find any difference.

- But I find...

At that moment I started playing with the bracelet on my hand from him. I haven't taken it off for a single day since he gave it to me in Monaco.

- You're still wearing it - he pointed out. - So there really is no difference between us.

I paused, looking at the bracelet. I still wore it, but because it reminded me of him and Chess...

Leclerc stepped even closer to me and lifted my chin with his fingers to make eye contact. Then suddenly simply asked the question that was running through my head in a caustic tone:

- How was it watching the race behind the bushes?

- Oh, you saw it! - he sneered impudently. - I thought you were too busy being the decoration at the wedding of Carlos' sister.

- It is funny that you exactly are talking about "decorations"... - I continued, gritting my teeth. - And for the protocol, I was on the front rows, taking an active part in the event...

- Well, not everyone could get to the front rows - Leclerc shrugged.

- Especially you this year - I looked into his eyes and smiled impudently. - Charles, you are a billionaire from Scuderia Ferrari, besides the races, you have every fucking opportunity to have anything that you want.

- Some things are hard to achieve, no matter if you have all the possibilities to be able to have them - whispered Charles and leaned forward, shortening the distance between us.

- Or you have to try harder to get these things and don't give up easily - I answered without taking my eyes off his.

Our lips were millimeters from each other, and I was thankful that by some chance we were now alone in the pit. The last thing I needed was jealous outbursts or dropped photos.

- I don't give up easily - he suddenly got mad and squeezed my arm. - There are just things that will cause difficult consequences if you have them.

- That's why you just prefer to get the things that are easier to be achieved, right - I faked a smile.

- What are you both talking about – suddenly Andrea joined the conversation, making us step away from each other.

- Nothing - we looked at each other distraught. And I continued - Charles understands it perfectly.

Leclerc stared at me and pursed his lips. I hit him in the emotions and that was my goal. It's true that I chose to stay with Carlos in Spain, but he still used to invite me to events with him... And he didn't text me once a day, probably during the time he could do it secretly. That annoyed me. This was not my prelude to the fulfillment of his promise to me in Spain. And I wanted him to understand that I would not tolerate such a thing.

I took the bike from Andrea's hands and pushed it towards the pit exit.

- I will do the tour of the track by myself, as I planned - I stated seriously. - Bye Andrea and... see you soon Charles!

I got on the bike and took one last look at Charles, whose face was filled with sadness.

#

I spent the night again at Sainz's, but I couldn't sleep at all. Half the night I lay on my back staring at the ceiling while Carlos' hand rested on my stomach, and for the other half I turned to him and studied him. His facial features, his full lips, the sculpted muscles of his neck, chest and arms... All this kept me awake as I first admired him and then thought of Charles and our sleep at Monaco. Then remembered our conversation at the garage. With hints he was trying to tell me something about our relationship.

Some things lead to difficult consequences if you have them. Was that me? Yes, Vasseur threatened to fire either me or him if we got in relationship, but he didn't tell me anything about Carlos. He hasn't figured it out yet? Hardly. He just didn't seem to know. And I told how many people that Vasseur forbade me to fall in love with Charles... And when the idea popped into my head that Charles might know and that's why he was making these hints to me, that's when I completely forgot what a sleep was.

I managed to drift off sometime before sunrise, but soon after Carlos' alarm woke me up. My friend, bubbling with energy, did not let me turn over at all and continue my precious sleep. He didn't know that I had been "counting the stars" all night. So, I had to get up and get ready for the first day of free practice in the paddock. We went down to breakfast together again, but this time I did not meet Charles, and fortunately. After breakfast we both went to the track together. I asked to take a walk around the paddock and have another coffee before starting work, but Carlos had to start his training and get ready, so he left me alone.

At last, I felt a little freedom and began my walk between the hospitalities. I thought that if the company I was traveling with a while ago offered me a 24/7 presence around me, I wouldn't refuse. But why? It was as if I was more used to Charles, his brothers, Joris and Andrea, and now it was the first to adjust among "team 55". I had a good time with Carlos, but the moment the men from his company started to come in and I started to feel uncomfortable. I had already gone through this period of getting to know, evaluating and "fitting in" with the company back in Baku with "the street gang" and there I knew that I was always welcome... It was not like that here. And considering that when she first met me, his mom didn't react the way Charles' mom did... Well, that made me extra uncomfortable.

I was pulled out of my thoughts the moment something went up my nose and I choked on it. It turned out to be one of the poplar fluffs that was flying everywhere. With my inherent arrogance, I brushed off the flying blossoms of the poplars and moved on. It wasn't even legal, they could kill an allergic person.

Suddenly behind me I heard the familiar female scream and my name. I turned to see Kika running towards me.

- Barbie girl! - she screamed and hugged me tightly.

I was really glad to see her and realized how much I had missed her these past few days and how much I actually missed a friend with whom I could share my self-created problems.

The cameras around us started clicking. Oh my God! Sensational! Ferrari's strategist and Pierre's boyfriend are very close. I was already seeing the articles. But better those than for my relationship status.

- Nice to see you, Kika! - I stroked her back.

- How are you, my dear? - she asked me when we broke away from our embrace.

- Let's say I'm fine - I smiled. - Do you want to go to the hospitality together? These paparazzi make me nervous.

- And the fluffs that you were cursing a while ago - she smiled and took my hand. - That's how I recognized you.

- Well, I guess I've become quite irritable lately - I laughed confusedly.

We both walked slowly towards our hospitality and quickly discussed the topics of the day.

- Well, tell me what's going on with you - Gomez suddenly changed the subject in a conspiratorial tone.

- Nothing special, work, work and again...

- No, no, you know very well what I mean - she interrupted me with a cheeky smile, and I gave her a quick indignant look. - Come on, tell me! Two weeks in Spain, attended a wedding, traveled together... There must have been something interesting.

- The wedding was unique - I said with a small smile and started playing with the bracelet on my hand. - I have never been to such an event... I hope one day I will have one, even more lavish.

- Do you still keep the bouquet? - I looked at her in shock. - I saw all the pictures... You got it.

- Well, yes, I caught the bouquet, but it stayed at Carlos's house, I couldn't take it with me to Italy - I laughed embarrassedly.

- Well, after that, you two with Carlos... - she nudged me lightly with her shoulder.

- Kika, nothing is clear yet, but I only know that sometimes you are disappointed by the things you really wanted, and the ones you denied make you happy - I stated with a heavy sigh.

- Why are you talking like that? - Kika smirked. – Anyways... Tell me, how is the sex with Carlos!

- Kika! - I shouted in shock and blushed literally from head to toe. - What kind of question is this?!

- Oh, of course, so you haven't given it to him yet - laughed the girl. – No worries, if you take it more slowly, it will be more interesting. There is enough time for everything in this life.

- I'm not going to discuss my sex life in the middle of the paddock with you - I hissed and lowered my head. I have never felt so ashamed as I do now.

- Querida, you'll be more relaxed after your first time with him - Gomez winked, making me blush even more.

- Kika... Stop... We are just taking it easy... - I felt myself sweating from tension.

- What do you mean by taking it easy?! - she laughed. - He already sent your mother a friend request!

- Wait! What?! How do you know about that... - I said in shock, immediately pulling out my phone and opening social networks to check. - I didn't even know that!

- I have my sources - she winked at me.

I gasped in surprise when I found out it was true. I should probably have a serious talk with him when we're alone tonight. My mother didn't even tell me that they both followed each other. Well, the fact is that she didn't know about my budding relationship with Sainz since we hadn't had much time to talk since the wedding... She had too much university work to do and I... Well, you know about me.

Suddenly I heard a joyful noise in the distance and turned in the direction it was coming from. Charles was just entering the paddock wearing his favorite white trousers, matched with the red uniform T-shirt. I stared at him. He stopped to sign a hat and tried to return it to the fans at the balcony above him, tossing it up towards them. But the poor boy could not assume that the light material of the hat would not allow it to fly to the balcony. I laughed at him. That slightly goofy naivety of his was so cute and I always enjoyed watching him display it. And the sweet, embarrassed laugh afterwards made my heart beat fast and smile wide.

- And maybe there's another reason you're delaying things between you both - Kika whispered, drawing my attention.

- What did you say? - I asked her in shock.

- Are these the things you wanted but left you disappointed? - the Portuguese woman raised her eyebrows pointing with head to Charles.

I didn't want to admit why I said those lines, but she obviously understood me very well. It's nice to have a good girlfriend who understands you even with just a few hints and a glance.

- Lissie, I think you're not looking in the right direction, dear! - she replied. - Carlos is in the other one.

She pointed to the Spaniard, who was at the other end of the paddock, in front of the steps of the hospitality. He was looking at us suspiciously, with his arms crossed in front of his chest, lightly scratching his neck, while part of our team was talking to him. But Sainz didn't seem to listen to them. He was staring at me, and his eyes seemed to be on fire.

- Kika, I think I should go - I said embarrassed. - I guess they're waiting for me.

- I think so too - she winked at me. - See you later, honey!

- See you later, beautiful! - I hugged her.

Kika headed for Alpin's hospitality while I headed for ours. But at that moment I felt someone grab my wrist.

- Darling! - I heard his timid voice and turned around.

- Charles... - I forced myself to smile.

- I could see you haven't slept again - he remarked and caressed my face. - Jet lag again?

- You look extremely exhausted as well - I stepped back and glanced over my shoulder at Sainz, who was staring intently at us. He looked like a bull about to attack.

- Chaos is available... There is no way not to be stressed... - he shook his head. - But I'm worried about you...Lissie, you're overworking. You need to rest.

- I can take care of myself - I shook my head.

- I see, that's why you're overwhelmed - Leclerc caressed my shoulder.

- It's not work that overwhelms me, Charles... - I pulled away slightly. - But I think you should transfer your concern to another account.

- Lissie, I think you should listen to me because I have something important to tell you - the Monegasque approached me. - What you see is one...

- Muñeca! - I heard Carlos in the distance and turned to him. He let me know to go to him.

- I have to go - I whispered to Charles and smiled sadly.

- Lissie, darling, don't turn your back on me! - Leclerc tried to stop me.

- Go get ready for the first practice Charles... - I advised him. - I will also prepare now.

The Monegasque tried to say something but changed his mind. I blew him a barely visible air kiss and hurried over to his teammate who was already hopping impatiently from foot to foot. As I approached him, he grabbed my hand, gave a bloody look on Charles, and led me into the household.

#

The first session was disrupted following a CCTV issue. However, the second session was going to be extended to 90 minutes. During the time between the two practices, I sat in the company of Caco and Ricky and we drank hot coffee to keep warm. It was great that Carlos and Charles were now spending time with their coaches, and I didn't have to deal with any of them.

Practice 2 started well - our boys were moving very encouragingly around the course, which was a good sign. But the rain was coming. Fortunately, the data from the cars was sufficient and we could afford to call our drivers back to the pits. Just as predicted, at the end of FP2 torrential rain began to fall - a low classic monsoon. 4 minutes before, I preferred to take our drivers to the boxes, their safety was our first priority. Alonso went out on the track to test his car in the rain, and when Sainz found out that, he started insisting that he go out too.

- Sainz, please, it's not safe - I called him when I saw that Ricky couldn't talk him out of it. - We're on Inters.

- I want to try! - Carlos insisted.

- No, you can't! - I tapped my hand on the desk.

- Let him try - Mekies allowed. - Still, we need to collect data from this as well.

- But it's insane, there is no vision on the track, especially on the hairpin! - I shouted indignantly. - Instead of data, we'll be collecting debris from our cars if we go out in these conditions.

- Is Carlos coming out? - we were also contacted by Charles. - I'm going out in that case too.

- Leclerc please don't act stupid... - I said to his station. - This is torrential rain for God's sake! One of you will get aquaplaning and you'll wreck both the car and you... The weather is only good if you're a fucking duck!

- Lissie, leave them on the track, let them test the wet asphalt - Mekies stopped me. - Let them go.

Both our cars took to the track, while my heart was racing. I couldn't imagine what would happen if one of them went aquaplaning right now, ending up in the barriers. I chewed on my fingernails and looked at the GPS tracker and the screens. Bottas almost hit Leclerc and Sainz contacted us to warn that it was not for Inters as he went aquaplaning. Like I didn't tell them.

Our drivers finally went back to the pits, and I could take a rest. I took off my headphones and turned to Mekies.

- With all due respect, Laurent, but never, ever do that again - I waved a finger at the race director.

- Lissie, they're smart enough to handle it... - he justified with a smile.

- Mekies, luck was on our side, but it won't be like that every day... I took a ride through the track yesterday, I know what it's like, I can handle it. Leave the choices to me. At least I think about the health of our drivers.

- Only about their health? – the race director chuckled.

I gave him a serious look, then got up from my seat and jumped over the pit wall railings. I ran to the garages and, as if out of habit, entered Leclerc first.

- Are you crazy? - I shouted while he had just jumped out of the car. - Almost collided with Bottas!

- And what makes you so angry? - he asked me, taking off his helmet and balaclava.

His hair was sweaty and disheveled, the helmet marks on his cheeks were deep and red, and there were dark circles of fatigue under his eyes. My heart went numb.

- What makes me angry? - I shouted and approached him. - You are risking your life despite my orders not to go out. You listen to Mekies instead of refusing after I said it was too dangerous.

- Do you think that I will allow Sainz to go out on the track and I will stand in the pit like a loser – Leclerc laughed in disbelief.

- You're not a loser if you keep your life - I said in an edifying tone. - Or what? Are you going to compete with Sainz?

- I told you that I'll do it when we were in Spain... - Leclerc gritted through his teeth.

- Lissa! - I heard behind me and turned around. Sainz was standing at the entrance to Charles' garage, looking at us quizzically.

I turned to the Monegasque, who smirked slyly and leaned closer to me, whispering in my ear:

- They came to pick you up from the wrong garage, darling! See you later!

He motioned for Andrea to follow him, and the Tuscan waved me goodbye. I shook my head with a heavy sigh. It was hard and it was about to get harder.

#

In the evening I sat on the sofa in Carlos' room and waited for him to take a shower. During this time, I was chatting with Arthur. He asked me how the weather was in Canada, how my work was going, what was going on in my personal life. But what could I tell him, when even I didn't know what was going on.

I thought about my conversation with Charles today. It was so crazy. He was clearly saying he was going to compete with Sainz for me, but the footage from Le Mans showed otherwise. And that confused me. Charles' whole demeanor confused me from the moment we met. We always got to the edge, but either he or I... didn't take action. Ah, how everything went wrong from his home Grand Prix. But if indeed Charles had an idea to compete with Sainz, then things could escalate to the detriment of each and every one of us.

- Muñeca - I heard behind me and was startled.

These men obviously really liked to make my angels come out of me... Or I was far away in my thoughts too often. I turned to the Spaniard sitting next to me. He put his arm around my shoulders and smiled.

- You were lost in thoughts about something again - he remarked quietly.

- What was that today? - I raised my question.

- What are you talking about? – Sainz frowned.

- You insisted on going out on the track, in the pouring rain, even though it was dangerous... Why did you do it?

Carlos was silent for a moment and looked at me fondly.

- I wanted to test the car, I have to be prepared for everything – he replied.

- You're lying to me Sainz - I got up from the sofa and put my hands on my waist.

Carlos sighed and got up as well. He took on a serious expression before speaking.

- The truth is, I wanted to impress you... I think you deserve the best and after giving me a chance... – his cheeks went red.

- Carlos, where am I? - I interrupted him.

- In Montreal - he frowned.

- Where am I now?! - I rolled my eyes, irritated by his ridiculous answer.

- In my room - replied the Spaniard.

- Do you think there is a need to impress me then by sacrificing your life? - I asked, taking his hand. - Your safety comes first.

Carlos smiled and cupped my face in his huge, warm palms.

- Then I will try to impress you in a safe way, Muñeca...

I smiled shyly and looked down. I really hoped that he would take my advice and stop doing unreasonable things... And that Charles would follow him.

Sainz stroked my lips with his thumb, then leaned down and kissed me gently. Slowly our kiss deepened and the butterflies in my stomach fluttered. My hands moved down to his neck and twisted in his hair, and his moved down to my hips, lifting me slightly in his lap. Without separating from each other I wrapped my legs around his waist when he managed to get up.

Sainz carried me to the bedroom. Soon after, I felt my back against the soft sheets of his bed. The Spaniard separated from me for a second. Both of us could barely breathe, passionate fires were burning in the young man's eyes. I bit my lower lip and exhaled heavily. I wasn't sure if I wanted it or not... And today Kika again managed to influence me with her words and made me hesitate.

- I think it's time for some sleep - Carlos whispered.

- Good idea - I nodded, caressing his face. - Tomorrow will be a hard day...

Sainz smiled and kissed me again, then stood up. I watched him walk away to the living room. I ran my fingers through my hair and sighed heavily. My eyes fell on the bracelet on my hand. Maybe I needed a little more time. But Charles...

Carlos returned with a glass of water and placed it on the bedside table by my side. He made sure I was always hydrated and made sure to leave the cup there every night. He was weird, but I liked how he cared about me. He then removed his T-shirt and sat down on the bed next to me. He pulled me into his arms and kissed my lips gently good night. And soon after that he fell asleep, but I didn't...

Notes: Heyyy guuuys! Hope you are doing it great! It is the beginning of a new race  week so here I am with a brand new chapter. I know it is long but this is a present because I was absent for so long  lately :D

Soo what we have here... Well Lissie accepted to try being in a relationship with Carlos, but it seems like she is still hesitating if she is doing the right thing. Meanwhile Charles is trying hard to bring her back but as always she is so stubborn. Lissa really misses him, but the offend of being replaced by other woman still makes her a bit cold to him. Oh, and let's not forget the jealous Carlos. What could happen next?  :O

Guys hope you liked the chapter - give a star/comment if so, hear the external link aaaand see you in the next paart. <3 <3 <3

Love ya all AAAND FORZA FERRARI SEMPRE!

N16XOXOXO