29.Apr – Sprint Shootout and Sprint race

The whole team was happy from the first pole for the season. It was ridiculous that the first good results weren't achieved until the fourth race weekend, but the reality was like that and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't change it.

On Friday evening the Scuderia had a double occasion for celebration, so we organized a little party at a restaurant close to the Shirvanshahs' palace and celebrated both Mekies' birthday and a successful day at the track.

After we got back from the circuit, I took a quick shower and started getting ready for the official dinner. I couldn't refuse Charles to travel with him and his brothers. They were just too pushy and used the moment to force me to accept their offer when I had overdosed on fluids like coffee and water and needed to get to the hotel apartment as quickly as possible. The Leclerc brothers were definitely good at timing and when they wanted something, they knew how to get it. Tricksters!

And here I am now, in front of the huge mirror in my spacious luxury bedroom, dressed in the official black Scuderia Ferrari uniform and white shirt, wearing 4-inch black heels, finishing the last few curls of my hair. I decided to let it fall freely, without unnecessary accessories or complicated hairstyles. When I was done with my hair, I quickly put on my usual makeup - mascara, eyeliner, but this time I also added golden eyeshadow to accentuate my eye color and a long-wear matte rose ash lipstick. I also put on some powder to cover up my cheeks and nose, which were red from the day under the hot sun, then spritzed on some of my perfume. Finally, was all set. I let the coral horn necklace hang around my neck because whenever I looked at it, I liked to remember how Charles had kissed it today. This memory made the butterflies in my stomach flutter, keeping the smile on my face. I even kissed the necklace at the end of my preparation now.

When I was sure that everything about me was in place, that I looked good enough to be in front of people, I took my purse and left the room. The three brothers were already waiting for me in the huge, shiny lobby of the hotel, and the moment I stepped out of the elevator, the sound of my heels hitting the marble floor caught their attention.

The first to turn was Charles, who fixed his gaze on me and froze as if he was seeing a ghost. Did I look that bad?! After him, Arthur and Lorenzo turned around and gasped in unison. This reaction embarrassed me, and I quickly looked down. Thank Goodness I had put the powder on, or my cheeks would have turned scarlet from the shame I felt. I approached and gave them a gentle smile.

- Everything alright, guys? – I asked worried.

- Not sure, anymore... - mumbled Charles and swallowed hard.

We both stared at each other, and I froze, unable to move or speak. Charles was also in his uniform looking stunning as always. The white shirt was slightly unbuttoned, revealing some of the bristling skin on his chest. I locked my eyes with his and shivers ran down my spine. He was gorgeous and made my legs tingle.

At this moment I heard a camera click and looked next to me. Arthur had pulled his phone out taking a picture of us. Charles snapped out of his trans and punched his brother in the stomach.

- What?! – the blondie exclaimed. – Je devais le faire... Elle est juste...

- Tu ferais mieux de te taire, Arthur! – whispered Lorenzo.

It was so cute, when they were speaking in French between them, using it as a "code" language. But they didn't know I understood some words, and this makes their conversations not so secret as they thought. Artur was just about to compliment me, but Lorenzo told him to shut up. Why?

- Guys, are we waiting for someone else, or we are ready to go? – I asked trying to break the awkward situation.

- We were only waiting for you, Lissie – Lorenzo said.

- And it was definitely worth it! – Arthur added, winking. – And because my brother is so stupid not to say it, I am going to do it... You look magnifique, Lissie!

Oh, that was the compliment he wanted to pay me.

- Thank you, Arthur! – I laughed shyly. – You have great manners!

- I am Leclerc after all! – the blondie said proudly and turn up his nose.

We all laughed at this, only Charles was still standing there as if he had forgotten all the languages, he was able to speak. I looked at him and put my hand on his shoulder.

- Charlie, is everything alright? – I asked him, whispering, while Lorenzo and Arthur were dealing the driver's number of the rented car.

- Sorry, I was wasted for a second... probably the sun today – he smiled softly. – Don't listen to my brother. I find your appearance amazing, little one!

I didn't answer but smiled in response and looked at my feet. He was amazing too, but I didn't want to say it. I wasn't sure if he will get me right or wrong...

Lorenzo told us that it was time to go because the car was waiting outside the hotel, and we all headed to the exit of the building.

#

The restaurant wasn't far from the hotel, we could even walk to it, but boys will always be boys and they were too lazy. The car stopped in front of a huge edifice which had the appearance of the castle in the old town, along which the racetrack pass. I shivered at the sight and became once again excited for the upcoming events of the race weekend. Charles, who unlike his brothers, was silent the whole time, rode in the front seat next to the chauffeur, and jumped out of the car first, to open the door for me and help me get out. What a gentleman!

The paved street in front of the building proved to be a bit of a problem for my thin heels, so Charles had to hold my hand the whole time until we crossed the threshold of the restaurant. But he didn't let my hand even after we walked in... and I didn't mind it. The atmosphere inside the building resembled a 10th century Persian palace. The walls and floors were made of marble, the doors were round, in the shape of flames. Arabic lamps hung from the ceilings, with a muted orange light that created a sense of mysticism. There were Persian carpets hung on the walls, as a representative part of the cultural heritage of the region. It was my first time visiting such a place and I was so sorry. It was fabulous, and I suddenly felt like a princess walking down the narrow long corridors of her castle. Was this how Petit Beauté felt, in her early days with her prince?

I looked behind me, where Lorenzo and Arthur were wandering, taking pictures of everything they see, while Charles was walking by my side, still squeezing my hand. We entered a spacious indoor garden. The ceiling was glazed, above the tables hung an old vine, on which small lights were strung, resembling a starry sky. In the center was a small fountain with fish swimming in it, and around it was arranged old honey vessels, again traditional to the region. In one corner of the garden there was a stage on which a chamber orchestra played typical oriental music. At the other end of the space, a long table was set up, around which all the team members had gathered. Of course, we were last, thanks to my hustle.

Several people saw us coming and immediately stood up to greet Charles. Mister Fusaro didn't miss coming and giving me a welcoming hug, after that I went to greet the media girls and the reserve drivers. Then Isa, who was there with her boyfriend also came to give me a warm hug. I missed her during the break and finally we could see each other again. While I was talking with Hernaéz about today's great success, I saw Charles approaching Mekies. The Monegasque handed him an envelope full of something, probably money - this was his birthday present, and hugged him tight. Lorenzo and Arthur went to speak with Mekies, so did I and after that we all headed to the free places. Charles pulled out a chair for me, then settled on the place next to me at the end of the table. Arthur and Lorenzo took the places next to the reserve drives, but they were too far from us, so the only company I had for the evening was that of Charles and Isa, who was sitting directly across from us, along with the frowning Carlos.

I looked around observing the area. It was beautiful, romantic, and mystic. I started thinking about the princess, whose diary I was reading and about Chess Player. Now I understand why he was so delighted with this place and so strongly recommended his beloved to visit it. In that moment, I felt even more connected to the two of them and their love story.

- What will you order? – I heard a deep voice whispering in my ear and snapped out of my thoughts.

I looked at Charles next to me, who was holding a menu with a caravan of camels drawn on its cover. His eyes were staring at me, as if to remember every inch of mine.

- I don't know what they have... - I replied and leaned to him, to read the menu.

- I could recommend you something if you are not sure what you want – Leclerc smiled softly, revealing his dimples.

- Great, then I will trust your choice! – I chuckled. – Lord Perceval knows best!

Charles giggled then called the waiter and I let out a deep sigh and leaned back on my chair, locking eyes with Isa. She gave me a playful smile, then turned to her boyfriend and started a quiet conversation in Spanish with him.

#

The beef steak with roasted sweet potato Charles ordered for me was superb. This guy really had a taste for food, and I don't know how, but he always managed to pick the flavors that I love. The good thing was that there was plenty to talk about throughout the dinner - Mr. Fusaro was next to me and engaged both me and Charles in all kinds of conversations about cars and training. From time-to-time Isa and I talked about fashion, I told her about the city tour, we shared how we spent the holidays and had a lot of fun all the time. Carlos was really quiet and obviously not in the mood. I tried to involve him in our conversation several times, but he was too laconic and looked like he would leave any moment.

In the middle of the dinner a girl in an oriental golden dance costume walked out and started making a show dance from traditional folklore. I really liked her moves - she was mesmerizing and hypnotized the whole table of man.

While she was dancing around Mekies and everybody was clapping their hands, cheerfully shouting and recording what was happening, Carlos suddenly stood up from his place. His action was so intensive, that he somehow pulled one end of the tablecloth towards him. As a result, the glass of rosé wine in front of me fell over and part of its content went over my blazer sleeve and on my trouser leg. I gasped when felt the alcohol over my hand and thigh and jumped out of my place. Charles and Isa did the same. I looked at Carlos and clenched my teeth tightly trying to keep my cool and not burst out in anger. I didn't want to ruin the celebration, so I reassured my two friends everything was fine and headed to the toilet.

I was trying to dry the washed sleeve of the blazer on the hand dryer, the trouser was unsalvageable, when for some reason I looked up at the mirror and saw Carlos on the front door of the common room of the toilet. He leaned his shoulder on the door frame with his hands in his pockets, staring at me. I jumped in fright.

- Sorry, didn't want to scare you! – he mumbled and stepped closer. – Just wanted to check if...

- It's all wet and I don't think I could ever dress it up again – I said looking at my clothes.

- I'm sorry I ruined your outfit! – Carlos said sadly, bowing his head. – We can send it to some dry cleaners here tomorrow and I'll take care of them to get it back unharmed. I promise to cover the expenses...

- Carlos, stop... – I interrupted him. – It's not necessary!

- It is... I feel guilty – Sainz said placing his hand on his sweat chest, visible under the half-unbuttoned shirt of him.

- Is that the only thing you feel guilty about? – I raised my eyebrows.

He sighed and put his hands on his waist, then looked around uncertainly and stepped closer to me. We locked our eyes, and I could see the anxiety in his dark irises.

- Look, I really realized how much my actions hurt you – the Spaniard started in a trembling voice. – And I'm really, really sorry! I am the one to be blamed, it's not Charles or you... It's me. I am the problem... For not being able to keep up with the car, it's me... It's nobody else's fault and I have to make it on my own to solve the problem... I try, Lissa. In the meantime, I'm fucking trying to communicate with you, but it's so hard to see your bloodshot look every time I talk to you. I cannot stand this anymore...

He inhaled deeply and I used the moment he stopped talking to say what I wanted to.

- That's exactly what I wanted to talk about with you today – I started biting my lower lip. – But I didn't know...

- Oh, you wanted to talk to me? – Carlos suddenly changed his tone to an ironic one. – I noticed that you were trying to involve me in the conversation at the table... But what? Are you so happy about Charles' victory that you decided to talk to me?

- My idea was not like that, but if you continue to behave like this, you will lose the little respect you have earned today – I hissed and crossed my arms in front of my chest.

- I... Oh, I don't know what's wrong with me... I tried to apologize but find a way to hurt you again... – the driver rubbed his eyes and sighed. – Look, I was wrong when I told you that you had no skills. I shouldn't have done that. I shouldn't have betrayed you, but I was led astray by Vasseur and what he offered me... Damn, I was a fool!

I walked up to him and put my hands on his shoulders, then smiled softly.

- I know this is torturing you and I can see your sullen face... – I started quiet. – That's why I wanted to tell you that everyone deserves a second chance... and I thought I could give it to you.

He looked at me in surprise. His long black eyelashes fluttered like butterfly wings, and a slight sigh escaped between his plump pink lips.

- I thought I would never... – the Spaniard started barely keeping his smile.

- Don't waste this chance Carlos... – I stepped back. – It will be the last.

- Thank you, Lissie!

Suddenly Sainz grabbed my waist and pulled me in his tight grip. At first, I was too shocked and couldn't move. After that I timidly placed my hands on his strong back and finally relaxed completely into his embrace. Friends? Not yet. But it was good to have this burden of anger finally fall from my heart and soul.

- I have to go back to the hotel, but don't want to drag three more people with me and spoil the party – I sighed, breaking the hug, but couldn't move away. Carlos was still holding my waist tightly.

- Well, I was planning to leave anyway – Carlos shrugged his shoulders. – Want to give you a ride?

- Sure – I nodded. – Just to tell Charles...

- To tell me what, Lissa? – we heard the voice of our teammate, echoed through the room.

Carlos and I turned around to the front door where now was standing Leclerc. And his eyes were full of anger, looking at me and at him. I felt embarrassed, stepped away and looked down immediately. He was definitely going to think something wrong about this situation.

- That I and Isa would drive her to the hotel – Sainz tried to escape from the awkward situation.

- She came with me and my brothers – the Monegasque came closer, and I gathered the strength to look up.

- She has to be in good condition for tomorrow, so she must leave now! – replied Sainz sharply.

- Guys, I think it will be better to take a taxi! – I tried to suppress the passions.

- NO! – both yelled at me then looked at each other angrily.

- No, you are coming with me! – Carlos took my hand and looked at Charles defiantly. – See you tomorrow, mate!

Next the Spaniard led me to the door. I turned around for one last time to wave to Charles and followed Carlos to the table, where Isa was waiting for us. I did not like what I saw at all. These guys were making me crazy!

#

The next day all the team was at the paddock from early morning. It was a real enigma for me how they were supposed to function properly when the time we arrived at the hotel with Carlos and Isa was midnight, but I understood from Arthur that he and his brothers came back around an hour after that. They must have been using some kind of invigorating magic, as every single team member's face looked fresh and rested. The birthday boy from yesterday was in a good mood and asked me to stay with him and Ravin to discuss our plans for the day. Before they started the preparations for the sprint shootout, I was able to see Charles for a bit. He was wearing the traditional Saturday red pants. Well, apparently each of us had something to believe in and a ritual for luck.

Sprint Shootout  arrived. I hadn't had time to talk to Charles about the situation yesterday, but I honestly didn't want to. If it was forgotten, there was no need for me to recall it, and if it moved him greatly, he would find me himself and bring it up as a topic.

I put my headphones  and turned my microphone on.

- Hello guys, welcome in the second day of this race week! – I started cheerfully. – The sun is shining, the track temperature is 48 degrees, and we start with brand new Mediums for SQ1 and SQ2 and obligatory continue to the Softs in SQ3. Any questions, guys?

- When we get out? – Charles replied first.

- Behind Red Bull – I said, and my heart skipped a beat.

- Copy, Lissie! – he said.

I sighed in relief. I was still Lissie for him. Thank Goodness! The timer started reverse counting the time till the end of SQ1, and our drivers left the pit-lane. I stared at the screens following their route on the GPS system, trying to figure out the exact time to start the fast laps.

- We are making 5-6 laps to warm up the tires to optimum operating temperature – I said on the radio. – This way we will escape the traffic and the track will become clear. Then 2 fast laps, as we always do.

- Copy! – both drivers replied.

I liked their focus. Finally, they listened to me to pay full attention over the track, not over our radio communication. 6 minutes left and it was the right time to attack.

- It's time to start! – I turned my microphone on. – First Charles, then – Sainz... Come on!

Leclerc crossed the white line and started his first fast lap. During it I was rubbing my neck nervously. First sector – purple, second... Purple... third sector...

- Yes, Charles! – I exclaimed. – You are P1 now! Prepare for a second fast lap! No box, Charlie!

While I was noting the time of Charles in my notebook, Ricky informed Carlos to start his lap. I looked at the screen up and bit my lips. Sainz seemed to be faster than usual. I liked that and as a result...

- P3 Carlos, good job, man! – I informed him on the radio. – Now again the same strategy – Charles first, Carlos you literally should follow him to use the Slipstream! Let's make it without a box!

- Copy, Lissie! – he said making me smile.

But by the time the drivers were preparing for their second fast lap, Carlos fell at P11, and my heart went numb.

- We have one minute left – I said. – Attack the track as per plan. Let's go!

Both drivers started their flying laps and my whole body began to tremble with worry. I was praying for them to get to the top places it was important for them... and for me. And the results were satisfying.

- Charles P1! Time for box! – I said happily and changed the station. – Carlos you are P4. One minute left till the end, so box now!

I sighed in relief and wiped with hand my sweaty forehead. If I continue sweating like that till the end of the weekend, I am going to lose more than 10kg. Suddenly I realized Xavi and Ricky are silent and I don't know what made me look at the GPS system. The car of Sergeant was closing in on our drivers at breakneck speed, and they were moving calmly in the middle of the track, ready to go back to the box. I hastened to unmute myself and literally shouted:

- Charles, get away from the track! Sainz, follow him, faster... No, guys!

Goosebumps went over my body. Carlos managed to move away, but Sergeant was at too high  speed and lost control over his car. Then at Turn 15 he hit the walls 0.25 seconds before the end of SQ1. Red Flag announced.

I ran my hands through my hair and looked at Mekies, who was sitting next to me. We both shook heads.

- Sainz! – I turned my microphone on. – Once again, I am not so kindly reminding you to look at your side mirrors. This is the hundred time you block the way of the drivers behind you. Stop risking their and your life as well!

- Sorry, but I need instructions! – he replied.

- You both have race engineers for this job! – I said, turning to Ricky and Xavi, who were sitting at the opposite end of the pit wall. – I cannot perform the functions of the whole Maranello!

I don't know which time was that, when we were arguing over the information the race engineers weren't giving to the drivers. But if this didn't change soon, I was going to insist on their resignation. Safety at first, but it seemed like this is not their priority. I gave an order for the tires to be changed, then ran my fingers through my hair again. The results were quite good, but we had to keep and improve them, if we wanted a front row.

SQ2 started and the drivers left the pit lane right after the Bulls. My strategy was to use them as pacemakers and to be on track until it is clear. Otherwise, the chance of Carlos causing a collision with someone was higher.

- Seven minutes left – I informed them. – As per plan – two fast laps, separated by one preparation lap. Okay?

- Copy! – they both replied.

- Charles goes first, Carlos starts right after that – I continued. – Let's go!

I was under a big pressure watching them making the fast laps but the results at the end were good enough – P2 for Charles and P4 for Carlos.

- Sainz, do you want some advice? – I unmuted myself. – Stop earlier for Turn 15, there is a small break before entering in it, so you have to position the car in a slightly outside trajectory.

- Copy! – the Spaniard replied.

- Leclerc, be careful on Turn 3 and Turn 15, there are your weakness – I changed the station. – Just watch out to not go too wide because you go too close to the walls. Okay?

- Copy, darling! – his cheerful voice rang in my ears.

After following my instructions Charles recorded second record time and Sainz made it to the P3. I called them for a box and ordered the pit crew to change the tires. A new plan came to my mind.

- We are going to surprise RB and get on the track before them – I unmuted myself.

- Are you sure about that? – Mekies leaned towards me, whispering.

- I am more than sure – I winked at him.

And our drivers left as per plan. I instructed them for our strategy 1p/2f as I started calling it to save some time while talking and now, they were ready for their fast laps. I started biting my lips and squeezed the coral horn pendant of my necklace. My whole body got goosebumps, my heart was pounding like crazy, and I wanted this Qualifying to end already. Charles finished P1 and Carlos – P4... Again. I informed them of their results and looked at the screens.

Max and Checo could have overtaken us. Our tires started to degrade faster than the Mediums and it must have happened a miracle to keep our results. The drivers started their final fast laps a minute before the end of SQ3. With these tires we would not have improved the results, but a safety car or a yellow flag for VSC would have saved the situation.

I felt a hot breeze behind my back and shivered. Chess? Why did I think that?! Just then I saw on the screens how Charles was flying towards the walls in turn 7. What?! No, it's not possible! I gasped and covered my mouth with my hands.

- Charles are you okay?! – I hastened to ask. – What happened, Charles?!

- I blocked the front wheels – he explained in a trembling voice. – I tried to push more and didn't stop on time in the turn... I'm in the walls and the front wing broken too.

- Just don't get panic, get out of the walls if you can – I tried to calm him down, even though I was more worried than ever. – We'll fix the wing, but the good news is that you're still on Pole - 1.41.697.

- My tires were already worn on the second lap – he continued, pulling the car back. – There was nothing I could do... Sorry Carlos!

- He's P5... – I swallowed hard. – Come back to the pits... I... I will come now.

I put my headphones down and looked at Mekies. He gave me a sign to go and I rushed to the barriers. Charles just arrived and jumped out of his car, then he came to me with quick steps.

- I am sorry! – he whispered under the helmet.

- You drove the angels out of me! – I replied and grabbed the helmet, as if I was cupping his face with my hands. – Are you harmed?

- No, no, but the car... - Leclerc shook his head.

- I'll supervise the reparation – I said, tapping his shoulders. – I am glad that you are alright... Smile, you are on a pole after all. If it's about Carlos, he will manage to achieve good results. Don't worry, I have a strategy for everything.

- If you say so... - he shrugged his shoulders.

- Charles, one last thing before you go! – I said grabbing his wrist. – Don't get wrong what you saw yesterday...

- I know everything, don't worry, Lissie! – he winked at me and returned back to the big cubes to receive his cap award for the pole position.

I watched him during all the time. But he didn't look happy at all. And I started to worry about him and the rest of the race day.

#

Four hours later it was time for the Sprint race. I spent my whole time at the garage of Charles, carefully following the process of working on his car. I didn't leave it for a moment, although Mr. Fusaro was trying to convince me that everything was fine, and they will take care of everything. But I insisted on being there and attending the placement of every element of the car. I was worried and couldn't hide it.

I watched Charles sitting by the walls with a cap and towel on his head. The race suit was around his waist and on his chest, he was wearing the cooling vest. Leclerc seemed very anxious and that worried me even more. I closed my eyes and grabbed the talisman around my neck, then kissed it and started praying for the drivers' success. They really need it... So, did I.

The Sprint race started. I took my usual place in the corner and turned my microphone on.

- Welcome on the board for a second time today, guys – I said cheerfully, trying to hide my nervousness. – The temperature of the track is 38 degrees, closer to yesterday's conditions. There is no possibility of rain, so the only thing you should be aware of are the turns. Here they are very tricky, so overtaking is only possible on the straights. There you should push to the limits. We start with brand new Medium tires. Everything okay?

- Copy, Lissie! – they both replied.

I stared at the screens and started following the cars. Charles started first, keeping his position, and Carlos remained 5th. Well, the situation was good only for two laps, when Yuki's car hit the walls at Turn 13 and his tire fell off the rim. Then a yellow flag was announced and a VSC.

- Any orders? – Charles called on the radio.

Before Xavi or Ricky to give an answer, I turned my microphone on and said:

- Stay out, just warm up the tires... Act like we are on a Quali. Warming the tires – then pushing. Okay?

- Copy!

And that was the answer I received from both drivers when I gave them the orders. I stared at the screens and saw a replay of the beginning of the race when George hit Max while fighting for positions. Now the car of one of the fastest drivers on the track was destroyed which meant that our cars have better chance to reach the top 3 places. But Yuki's car wasn't in condition at all and that forced a real Safety Car on the track. And then a plan came to my head.

- Carlos, Verstappen's car has a broken floor – I unmuted myself. – Now you have to be ready to attack him. The moment when the Safety Car is deployed you must speed up and use the airflows to overtake. Alonso is behind your back, and you must defend your position. Could you manage that?

- I could try, Lissie! – his Spanish accent rang in my ears.

- You don't have to try... - I said sternly. – You must do it!

Mekies who this time was on the other side of the pit wall leaned over the desk, just to make an eye contact with me. He gave me a thumbs up, and I winked at him in response. I was doing it well.

- Fuck, there was a cut! – I heard Charles saying.

The entire team's blood froze in seconds. There didn't seem to be a problem with the data from the car.

- Seriously? – I replied. – Leclerc, once you are leading a fucking race and you have a damn problem. What's wrong with you, man?

- Lissie, what problem you are talking about? – he answered.

- You are talking about a CUT! – I almost shouted and the entire team by the wall looked at me.

- A CAT, Lissie! A cat! – said Charles laughing. – A mother fucking black cat!

- Vaffalcuno, Leclerc! – I replied and everyone sighed in relief. – Just focus on the track, Perez has intentions to overtake you.

- Copy, darling! – the driver chuckled.

At this time in Lap 5 the Safety Car went back to the pits and the race resumed. Meanwhile Carlos managed to defend his position but lost the chance to overtake Max. He couldn't do two things at one time, so now he just had to stay behind Russel. Verstappen was now third, but Charles took the fastest 7 Lap. Xavi was keeping a good communication with the Monegasque, so I just stared at the screens waiting for a miracle.

Soon after that I saw that Leclerc started losing his good pace and Checo shortened the distance between them.

- Charles, you remember I told you that Checo has the intention to overtake you? – I turned my radio on. – If you don't push a little, he will do it now!

But it was already too late. Perez entered the DRS range of our leader, and within a second he was already ahead of him. I exhaled heavily and thought "I told you". Then rubbed my temples and unmuted the microphone:

- Just stay close to him... There are 5 laps before the end so... You have to attack at the start-final straight. Use him as a pacemaker.

- Sorry Lissie...

Even if I should, I couldn't hide the disappointment in my voice. But there was still a little hope left for him to turn his position back.

Three laps before the end of the race, Carlos was still on P5. His tires began to degrade very quickly, despite that he was keeping the good pace. Praiseworthy! Charles was 3 seconds away from Checo and Verstappen couldn't reach him. The broken floor was a great advantage for us, but our tires were already like shit. It was obvious that the positions were going to be P2/P5.

I had just reassured myself that everything was fine when I saw Max approaching Charles menacingly. I didn't want to panic the Monegasque, so I kept quiet and gritted my teeth, praying Max would abandon the overtaking maneuver. Fortunately, Charles was able to escape him, finishing second.

- Good job, boyyyys! – I shouted cheerfully on the radio. – Charles P2, Carlos P5. You did it great! Proud of you!

And I put my headphones down and sighed in relief. I was really proud of them, because to defend themselves from the other cars with this tire degradation was pure heroism. I rushed to the fences to welcome the Monegasque. He seemed to be happy when he put down his helmet and balaclava.

- Come here, Lord Perceval! – I spread my arms for a hug when he headed to me and the other people from the team who followed me.

- I tried so hard, Lissie! – he said hugging me tight.

- And you did it! – I winked at him. – Beating Max third time in a row... Tu scrivi una bella storia, Predestinato! 

Leclerc smiled shyly, revealing his sweet dimples. And I felt so stunned. But our moment was ruined by loud noise behind us.

- And talking about Max... I think he chose the violence.

I pointed behind Charles back where Max was arguing with George. Leclerc chuckled while watching them and turned to me.

- Meet me in my room, after 20 minutes – he whispered in my ear, then began to accept the congratulations of the rest of the team.

His words left me in shock. To meet him where?!

Notes: Hello, hello, sweethearts! Here I am with the new chapter - stepping in the new race weekend. Traditions! <3

Soooo... Lissa FINALLY forgave Carlos and now they are a happy little family again. Or they are not? :D We will see... Chess Player did his magic again, but caused so much work for Lissie, aaah... Yeah! And now... Charlie---> Lissie----> One driver's room... WOAH! What will happen? O_O

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

Love ya all! <3 

N16 XOXOXO