86: Racing time

Sunday, race day in Zandvoort

Maeve's point of view

The morning air is cold and chill, but chill is not a word I would use to describe the current activity at the Red Bull garage. There is energy and tension but also joy as the team makes final preparations.

I'm not tired at all, like I usually am. This morning's escape from Max's hotel room still lingers in my mind, luckily I could've just said it's for revising the strategy or something. We managed to slip out unnoticed, but the memories of last night... our quiet moments together ground me amidst the chaos in here.

'One more time, Maeve. You aren't listening', Owen says. 'The strategy'.

He hands me a tablet with detailed plans. I nod, focusing on the screen.

As I study the strategy I glance over at Max, who is talking to his engineer.

He catches my eye and gives me a reassuring smile.

'Looks good, Owen', I nod.

'You know... today is uhm... a strategy you don't like very much', Owen says.

'I know, I should protect Max while he takes the win. You want him to win next week too, right? It's better for the sales in Abu Dhabi, or not?'.

Owen sighs. 'It's messed up'.

'It's fine. I will race like my life depends on it, but I will try to keep the strategy in my mind'.

'That's very respectful of you', Owen smiles.

'I know, I'm amazing'.

Luciana's point of view

I swear to god Charles gets on everyone's nerves during race day. He's so very exact that if you breathe too loud he will scold you. But I love him, so it's fine, he's just nervous.

He is currently discussing every detail with his team. I watch him, I admire his dedication to Ferrari very much. As I look outside the paddock is buzzing, I'm lucky I found a quiet corner where we can talk without much interruptions.

'Stay hydrated, Luci. Remember that', he hands me his bottle. His eyes are full of concern. 'It's going to be a long day'.

'I don't have to work really hard, I just sit there on my seat, waiting for you to cross the line safely', I smile.

He laughs and squeezes my hand.

'Focus on your race, Charles. You've got this, I will be fine'.

Sienna hangs over Carlos' car, she is switching between the McLaren and the Ferrari garage non-stop. She's a bundle of energy and her enthusiasm is infectious under the crew. Although I'm not sure Carlos is happy with her, he keeps sighing.

'Wait so what is this button?', she asks, pointing to the steering wheel.

'If I push that I get water, Sienna', Carlos sighs.

'If you don't want me here just say so', she jokes.

'I'm just busy, Sien. It's a busy day'.

'Well don't get your knickers in a twist, I'm here because I care about you', she laughs.

'I know, I love you', he reminds her.

Sienna one day your personality is going to be the death of you.

Sienna's point of view

'Carlito, don't forget to check the tire pressures again', I remind him and I give him a quick hug before turning to Lando, who is standing right next to me 'in' the McLaren garage.

He's standing against the wall, while his team is practicing pit stops.

'Lando, remember what we talked about last night. Stay calm and focused, no matter what'.

Carlos and Lando both nod, both busy with their preparations.

I offer them encouragement, I make sure they have everything they desire. It's a balancing act, but it's one I've gotten used to.

I wave at Luci. 'How's Charles holding up, Luce?'.

She smiles and glances at him. 'Focused and good!'.

'Great!', I smile. 'Shall we go check on Maeve before the race starts?'

'Yeah let's go!'

Maeve's point of view

I feel a tap on my shoulder. It's Max.

'Ready for today?', he asks, his voice is soft and secure.

'Always. Let's give the people what they want, a fucking race'.

He laughs and looks around.

He moves his hand against my arm and brushes it up and down, still looking around.

'Don't die, our sex is way too good to stop now', he jokes.

I feel my cheeks blushing. 'I promise'.

We share an intense look, a quick one. The clock is ticking and soon we'll be out on the track, battling for every inch.

I'm placed inside my car, the final checks are done and it's time to head to the grid.

'Maeve, we're so proud of you. Never doubt yourself', Sienna smiles at me.

'Maevey, you can do this. No matter what result you achieve we're here for you girl', Luciana smiles.

'Thank you, my sweet girls! I love you both so much you have no idea!', they kiss my helmet.

'Drive safe', my dad tells me. 'Give them hell, little one'.

'Be careful!', my mother says with tears in her eyes.

'I will guys. See you after this', I smile.

I take off from the garage. The screaming of the crowd fills my ears, the scent of fuel fills my nose and the adrenaline is pumping through my veins.

It's racing time bitches.