#charles will get his spotlight soon....

[celebritybuddytrolling]

emery and otto hanging out with pickles...or getting big german beers with charles...(u know who this is oh don't make me say it)

they definitely go pub crawling with pickles like at LEAST once every few months

beeg german beers....

[nathaslosthershit]

The Truth Behind It All

Summary: Charles didn't cheat on his ex with his current gf, but due to not wanting to cause further issues with his ex, he can't really come out and give the true story.

The speculation had started to get out of hand. Suddenly, comment sections became bombarded with the most disgusting and hateful things she had ever heard. But Charles’ comment sections remained fine, as long as he didn’t post her. Sure, his pr team was most likely deleting anything on there that wasn’t positive, but compared to his girlfriend’s page, he still had tons and tons of love. 

She understood it, somewhat. She knew she would never support someone who cheated on their partner. But that isn’t what happened with her and Charles. After his unexpected break up with his ex following her own affair, he went out drinking that same night. Charles had always said it was a blessing that ‘his darling found him then’, when he was at his lowest, and had been his saving grace. There was no cheating on his part.

Charles hadn’t noticed the change in behavior coming from his girlfriend. He had been away for the weekend for some work related events. Her texts didn’t particularly seem off, but they were only words, it was easy to fake enthusiasm through messages. He should have checked in sooner given what he had seen on twitter.

The house was dark and quiet when Charles got back. It seemed to be unoccupied until he made it to their shared bedroom and saw his girlfriend under the covers. 16:00 was an unusual time to be asleep, but he soon realized she was awake as sniffles became audible in the once silent room. 

“Darling, what is wrong, huh? I thought you would be happier to see me” He teased, trying to get a feel for the situation. 

She didn’t respond. She didn’t even sit up.

“Honey? Come on, what is bothering you?” He cooed as he knelt by her side.

“As much as you say it, you aren’t stupid, Charles, you know what's wrong.” He finally got a good look at her tear stained eyes as she pulled the covers off slightly. He knew then should have checked in.

“They are just comments. Rude ones, I know, but simply comments. I have gotten bad ones before. It will all go away, honey, this isn’t the end of the world-”

“It feels that way.” She said as she sat up. “Charlie, do you see the comments I’m getting on instagram? The more comment sections I disable, the farther back people go. Someone was just commenting on my middle school graduation post that they hoped I was bullied. What kind of insane person does that?”

He hadn’t realized they had gotten that bad. Seeing how swollen her face was from crying, he felt tears threatening to fall himself. 

“I just want to be enough, Charles, but I don’t feel like I ever will be as long as you let the media dictate how you feel. I want you to love me because you love me, not because the media does. As much as it is unfair and as much as it sucks, you are a public figure. You aren’t just an athlete, you are a brand. You need to be in the spotlight and be loved by fans to sustain yourself long after you retire. You can’t have both me and your fanbase, they have made sure of that.”

“Honey, we can just go private. Make it seem like we broke up until they stop caring.”

“But we shouldn’t have to! I know you don't want to bash your ex but having people think that we were the ones cheating when it was her is unfair. Plus, you're not the one getting harassed, they act like this is only my fault.”

“It is unfair sweetheart, I understand that very much, but they will forget and move on.”

“They won’t Charles, so long as you are in the spotlight and attractive, people will love you and care about who you are dating. I-” She cut herself off from what she was about to say. She really didn’t want to say it.

“What, love?”

“I cannot continue like this. If we are going to be together, we can’t keep letting the public think what they currently do. Either address it or I am done.” With that she walked out of the room, rushing down the stairs to grab her keys and put on her shoes as she left a stunned and silent Charles still in the bedroom. 

—

Hours passed with no hint of when his girlfriend would be back. He left message after message until he decided to let her be for the time being. He got on a call with his PR team to assess what could be done but didn’t like the answer he got.

A tough conversation was waiting to be had and both of them knew it.

Finally, around midnight, he heard the front door open. Immediately standing from the couch, he walked over to hug her.

“I was so worried. I didn’t know when you'd be back.” He whispered into her hair as he rubbed her back.

“I know, Charles, I needed to clear my head, and I think you did too.” This was it. Both felt their stomachs sink as they sat down. Both were silent as they waited for the other person to speak up.

“I had a meeting with PR. Honey, they said there is nothing I could say that wouldn’t have large consequences. To talk about everything that happened after all this time would be petty, and defending you is wrong.” “It’s wrong? Defending me for something I didn’t do is wrong? God, Charles, do you even hear yourself? How are you letting your team call the shots and ruin our relationship like this?”

“I am not ruining our relationship, you are the one who is giving me an impossible choice. And that isn’t what I meant. It would just look bad-”

“Defending me from getting death threats wouldn’t look bad. You are being so stupid right now.”

“Don’t talk to me like that. Weren’t you the one earlier saying I wasn’t stupid? But now I am because I won’t let you call the shots on making decisions that would have large impacts on my career?”

“If defending your girlfriend is going to tank your career then what kind of fucking fans do you have, Charles? Clearly not ones you would want to keep around.” “Enough! I won’t talk about this anymore.”

“Then we are done. I won’t settle for continued harassment over something I didn’t do, and if you won’t defend me then I don’t know what I am even doing here.” Charles remained silent at that. What could he even say in this situation? In his mind, his hands were tied.

Oh how unfair it all was.

[pucksandpower]

Grid Kids: Awkward Encounters

Sebastian Vettel x wife!Reader x platonic!drivers

Summary: times when your grid kids gained way more insight into your relationship than they asked for

Series Masterlist

The Time Max Just Wanted to Sleep

Max checks into his hotel room after a particularly tiring day at the track, desperately needing some rest. But as he sinks into the plush hotel bed, he’s met with unexpected noises coming from the adjacent suite. Recognizing the familiar voices, he groans, realizing that he’s unfortunately booked right next to you and Sebastian.

Pulling a pillow over his head, Max tries to drown out the sounds but they seem to only grow louder. He paces the room, plugging in earphones and trying to blast some music. Yet, the thin walls of the hotel make it hard to escape the breathy gasps and banging of the headboard coming from next door.

Getting desperate, Max considers going down and asking if any other rooms are still available but then decides to tackle the issue head-on. Grabbing his phone, he shoots a cheeky text to you and Sebastian: Hey, mind keeping it down a bit? Some of us are trying to sleep here!

***

A few minutes later, there’s a knock on Max’s door. Opening it, he finds the two of you, looking sheepish and holding a bottle of champagne.

“Peace offering,” Sebastian says with a grin. “Sorry about the noise.”

Max chuckles, shaking his head. “Next time, maybe we should coordinate our room arrangements a bit better.”

You end up sitting in Max’s suite, sharing the champagne as the initial awkwardness of the evening fades away.

As the night draws to a close, Max hugs you and pats Sebastian on the back, “Thanks for the drink. But next time, seriously, a bit of discretion wouldn’t hurt.”

Sebastian laughs, raising his glass before downing the remaining champagne, “To fewer awkward hotel nights.”

The Time Lance Just Wanted Some Music

It’s a bustling race weekend and the paddock is alive with activity. Inside the Aston Martin garage, Lance is fumbling with the PA system, trying to connect his phone to the system so he can share his new pump-up playlist with the team.

Meanwhile, nearby in an unused back office, you and Sebastian steal a few moments of intimacy away from the spotlight and the stress of the race.

Just as things heat up between you two, Lance unknowingly reroutes the PA system, and suddenly, the sounds from the office you commandeered echo through the entire garage. The mechanics and engineers freeze, their eyes widening in shock, while some try (and fail) to suppress their giggles.

As the soft murmurs and distinctive sounds start echoing through the garage, everyone stops in their tracks. Eyes widen, jaws drop, and awkward glances are exchanged. The team quickly realizes what’s happening and a frantic search begins to find the source of the unintended broadcast.

Max, who ran to the garage at the first sense of drama, snickers, leaning over to Charles who joined him, never one to resist good gossip either, “Seems like Seb’s getting a turbo boost.”

Charles stifles his laughter, nodding, “Definitely achieving maximum force.”

Realizing what he’s done, a horrified Lance scrambles to correct his mistake, finally disconnecting the PA system.

***

You and Sebastian, initially clueless about the unintended broadcast, step out of the room only to be met with a chorus of playful wolf whistles and knowing grins.

Charles leans in, whispering to Sebastian, "You guys put on quite the show.”

Max, laughing uncontrollably, slaps Lance on the back, “Best PA announcement ever!”

Lance, beet-red with embarrassment, mumbles his apologies, “I had no idea! I was just trying to fix the connection.”

Despite the initial shock, the hilarity of the situation soon takes over and the entire team is rolling with laughter. Sebastian, taking it in stride, wraps an arm around Lance’s shoulder, “Well, that’s one way to boost team morale.”

You, trying to hide your blush but failing, add with a smirk, “I guess we just set a new standard for team bonding.”

Later that night, at a dinner with your grid kids, George raises his glass, “To Lance, for reminding us all of the importance of ... connecting. And to Seb and Y/N, for providing today’s unexpected entertainment!”

The Time Lando Just Wanted to Stream

It’s another busy race weekend and the paddock is buzzing with energy. Lando, with some rare free time, decides to give his fans a live behind-the-scenes tour of the paddock on Instagram.

With tens of thousands of fans tuned in, Lando enthusiastically shows off various parts of the paddock. The garages, the control rooms, and the media centers all get their moment in the spotlight.

As Lando continues with his tour, he approaches a drivers’ lounge, thinking it would be a great idea to show his fans where the drivers relax and chat.

But as he pushes open the door, camera first, he unexpectedly broadcasts a very private moment between you and Sebastian. There’s a split second of stunned silence as the three of you stare at each other like deer in headlights before chaos ensues.

“Oops! Wrong room!” Lando exclaims, hastily retreating, his face turning a brilliant shade of red. He quickly ends the live stream but the damage is done.

***

Minutes later, the paddock is buzzing with whispers. Lando, mortified by his mistake, immediately approaches you and Sebastian to apologize.

“I swear I didn’t know! I thought it was empty!” he stammers, clearly distressed.

Sebastian, although embarrassed, pulls Lando into a one-armed hug to calm him down, “It’s okay. We should have locked the door.”

Lando nods, “And I should’ve knocked.”

That evening, as your not so little family regroups, there’s no escaping the topic. But instead of letting it hang awkwardly, the grid kids decide to turn it into a joke.

Charles, holding up his phone, teases, “So, thinking of starting a new career as an influencer couple?”

Max chimes in, “Yeah, your ratings went through the roof!”

In the middle of the laughter, you lean over to Lando, “Maybe stick to streaming video games for a while, okay?”

Lando grins sheepishly, “Deal.”

The Time Mick Just Wanted a Massage

The race had been particularly challenging that week and Mick, knowing how hard everyone had been pushing themselves, thought it would be a kind gesture to gift you and Sebastian a day of relaxation at the luxurious spa resort nearby. The couple’s massage package, complete with aromatherapy and access to private thermal baths, seemed perfect.

Thinking he’d also take the opportunity to indulge in some self-care, Mick booked a Swedish massage for himself around the same time, imagining quietly de-stressing in adjacent rooms.

As he settles in for his treatment, the gentle background music and expert hands of the masseuse almost lull Mick into a nap. But just as he’s drifting off, a familiar, muffled giggle floats through the walls, quickly followed by other ... less innocent noises.

Recognition dawns and Mick’s eyes snap open in horror. Next to him is the couple’s treatment room and it appears that you and Sebastian are finding more ways to relax than what the spa menu offered.

Panicking and wanting to escape the increasingly awkward situation, Mick whispers to the masseuse, signaling that he wants to end the session early. But the sounds, both from the neighboring room and his own racing heartbeat, make it hard to communicate discreetly.

Finally, unable to bear another second, Mick bolts upright, wrapping himself in his robe and leaving behind a very confused masseuse and a half-finished massage.

On his hurried way out, he generously tips the spa staff, adding a whispered plea, “Thicker walls. Please consider getting thicker walls.”

***

After the spa incident, you and Sebastian felt the need to make amends for the unintentional awkwardness you’d caused Mick.

The next morning, Mick receives a package at the door of his hotel room. Curious, he unwraps it to find a luxurious noise-canceling headphone set along with a cheeky note:

For the next time we’re all at the spa (or anywhere, really). May these help you find the peace and quiet you truly deserve!

We are so sorry,

Y/N and Seb

Mick chuckles, appreciating the humor and thoughtfulness behind the gift. Shaking his head with amusement, he sends you a text: Thanks for the headphones! I’ll be sure to put them to good use. And no worries, it’s all in good fun!

The Time Charles Just Wanted to Play the Piano

One breezy evening, Charles, looking to relax, decides to play the grand piano in the lounge area of the upscale hotel you’re all staying in. He’s excited to show off the piece he recently composed and thinks the soft tunes would be the perfect backdrop for the sunset.

As the first notes float in the air, Charles becomes more engrossed in his performance, letting the melody guide his emotions. Guests gather, drawn by his beautiful rendition, creating a small, appreciative audience.

However, as he transitions to a quieter, more mellow piece, another sound begins to subtly accompany his piano playing. It’s coming from the suite above the lounge and the faint but unmistakable noises are in stark contrast to his elegant music.

Charles’ eyes widen in recognition, realizing the suite above belongs to you and Sebastian. Trying to maintain his composure and not draw attention to the … additional soundtrack, Charles decides to improvise.

Switching to a louder, more vibrant tune, he plays with increased vigor and volume, trying to drown out the amorous symphony from upstairs. The crowd, oblivious to his true motives, applauds his versatility, thinking it’s all part of the show.

Once his fingers are numb and you seem to have quieted down, Charles wraps up his impromptu concert with a flourish, earning hearty applause from the crowd.

Later, as he walks past your table during dinner, Charles leans in, whispering with a smirk, “Your ... appreciation for my music was evident but maybe next time, stick to clapping something other than your cheeks?”

The Time George Just Wanted to Hang Up

George is prepping for an upcoming race, headphones in, studying the track layout on his tablet. Your name flashes across his phone screen and he quickly answers, eager to discuss your plans for the weekend.

The conversation goes smoothly and as it concludes, George believes he’s hung up, returning to his race prep. However, the call hasn’t disconnected and as moments pass, he starts hearing faint, intimate whispers, quickly recognizing the familiar voices of you and Sebastian.

Panicking, George tries to hang up but for some inexplicable reason, the phone seems to be in a rebellious mood. In his flustered state, he accidentally switches the call to speaker mode, amplifying the ... private conversation for all to hear.

In a rising state of desperation and embarrassment, George mashes buttons but the phone, now seemingly possessed, continues to broadcast the sighs and moans. His face reddens, realizing that his team, busy in the adjoining rooms, can probably hear everything.

In a final bid for respite, George, driven to the edge, hurls his phone against the wall. The device shatters, mercifully cutting off the call and restoring sweet silence.

Catching his breath, George contemplates the wreckage of his phone, feeling a mix of relief and regret.

Later, when he sees you and Sebastian, he sheepishly explains the demise of his phone. “You owe me a new one,” he jokes, “And maybe a pair of earplugs.”

Sebastian chuckles while you reach up to ruffle his hair, “Next time just put it on airplane mode.”

The Time They Just Wanted to Check the Group Chat Without Having to Bleach Their Eyes

On a quiet evening as you’re prepping dinner, your phone buzzes with a new notification. Wiping your hands, you pick it up only to find a message in the group chat you share with Sebastian and your grid kids. To your horror, it’s a risqué photo of Sebastian, clearly meant for your eyes only but now out there for the entire gang to see.

Immediately, the chat explodes.

Lando: My eyes! My eyes, they burn!

Charles: Seb, trying to spice up media day?

George: Well, that’s a different kind of pole position

Max: Blackmail material acquired 😈

Lance: This is taking teammate bonding a bit too far

Mick: I can never look you in the eyes again

Sebastian, realizing his mistake, quickly responds: Oops, meant to send that to Y/N. Sorry guys

Then, because he’s still a menace at heart, adds: Enjoy the view 😉

Max, always ready with a quip, shoots back: Enjoyed and scarred for life. Thanks, Seb

You jump in, trying to diffuse the situation: Okay, as fun as this is, let’s all delete and pretend this never happened. Deal?

Your grid kids collectively agree, although the jokes don’t stop anytime soon.

***

Later that evening, you find Sebastian slightly red-faced but chuckling. “Guess I need a lesson in texting,” he admits.

“You think?” you laugh, giving him a playful nudge.

To ensure no future mishaps, your grid kids gift Sebastian a book titled “Text Messaging for Dummies” when you meet up the following weekend, turning the awkward incident into a funny memory.

It’s just another day in the unpredictable but always entertaining life with your family.

And you have to admit, it was a nice photo. You make sure to enjoy the view in real life that night.

[sunny44]

She’s mine

Pairing: Max Verstappen x Fem!reader

Warnings: just a sexy blurb.

Summary: Where Y/n makes a plan to get Max to finally admit that he likes her.

The night was young, and the vibrant atmosphere of the club pulsed with electrifying energy. I walked across the dance floor, my scandalous red dress capturing the attention of everyone around me. I knew I was being excessive, but sometimes, being subtle simply wasn't an option.

My eyes met Charles's across the dance floor, and a mischievous smile played on his lips as I approached him. I knew Charles was Max's friend, and we had exchanged messages earlier for me to explain my plan to make Max act once and for all.

"Charles.” I said, my sweet voice laden with a suggestive tone. "Having fun?"

Charles winked, a wicked smile playing on his lips. He knew exactly what I as up to, and he was more than willing to help.

"Loads, but eager to see Max's reaction to your plan.” Y/n laughed, a melodious sound that echoed over the thumping music.

"Thanks for helping me, by the way. Your friend is a slowpoke."

"Yeah, I thought he would have made a move by now with the way you two act."

"Me too." He laughed, and I noticed Max finding me in the middle of the crowd, his smile evident as soon as he saw who was with me. So, I leaned close to Charles's ear and spoke. “Max is not liking what he's seeing right now. Do you think we should dance and make him even more jealous?"

"Well, what are we waiting for?"

And so, the two of us began to dance, moving to the rhythm of the music as my plan unfolded. I could feel Max's eyes on me, and it was exactly what I wanted.

I was determined to make him finally take action.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the dance floor, Max watched with jealous eyes ablaze. He knew I was flirting with Charles, and he couldn't contain the whirlwind of emotions consuming him.

He navigated through the crowd to the DJ booth, where Martin commanded the beats.

"Martin, turn off the music.” he ordered, his voice heavy with urgency.

"What? Why?"

"Just turn off the music for a minute, please.” he said, somewhat irritated.

Martin raised an eyebrow but nodded, understanding that something important was happening.

With the music dimmed, all eyes turned to Max as he pointed to Y/n, who was now illuminated by the spotlight, her red dress shining like a blazing flame in the club's darkness.

"Are you all seeing that girl?" Max's voice echoed through the club, and besides the light, he also pointed his finger at me. "Talk to her, look at her, or breathe near her, and you'll have a problem with me. She's mine."

I felt a shiver run down my spine as Max's eyes locked onto me, a wild intensity that made me tremble slightly.

But then I saw Charles's mischievous smile, and I knew it had all been worth it.

My heart raced as I saw Max coming towards me, maneuvering through the people who had started dancing again when Martin had turned the music back on.

"Max..."

He took my hands, pulling me close to him, and kissed me, and it was one of those breath-taking kisses.

"I know I've been an idiot all this time, procrastinating instead of asking you to be my girlfriend, but I can't deny anymore what I feel for you."

"Finally.” I say, and he looks at me surprised. "You really are an idiot, I had to plan with Charles to make you jealous so that you finally admitted out loud that you want me as your girlfriend."

"You two planned this?"

"Obviously, don't get me wrong, Charles is hot but not really my type."

"And what's your type?"

"Dutch, world champion, and completely clueless when a hot girl is after him." He laughs and pulls me closer.

"There are plenty of hot girls after me."

"Yeah, but I'm the only one who will get something else out of you." I whispered back and saw the hairs on his neck stand up.

"Wanna get out of here?"

"Definitely."

Bonus scene!

Maxverstappen instagram stories

“She’s definitely mine”

[vivwritesfics]

Jester Stole His Thorny Crown

Chapter One

He never had a choice in his life. His dreams were nothing more that that. Dreams. But then he met a lounge singer at his brother club and everything changed.

Mafia!Au

1.2K

Warnings: drugs (not taken), gun violence

Series Masterlist

This wasn't his job. It was beneath him, usually a job for his inexperienced little brother. But Arthur was at home, being looked after by their maman as he nursed a non-fatal gunshot wound.

Charles was pissed as he drove through the streets of Monaco. This was Arthur's job, not his. If he had listened to Charles and Lorenzo, and hadn't run in with guns (quite literally) blazing, they wouldn't be in this position.

The people of Monaco knew about the people who, essentially owned them. They had a royal family, but they didn't have as much Power as the Leclercs. As soon as they saw the black Ferrari SF90 Stradale, they knew to get out of the way.

On this day, the only thing stopping Charles from driving into everybody in his way was his love for his precious car. As soon as he had checked through the clubs, he was going to go to his mamans house and murder Arthur.

Charles parked his car. Well, parked is a term used loosely. He stopped the car wherever he wanted and every other driver on the roads of Monaco had to work around him. This was maybe one of the best demonstrations of power that the Leclerc family had.

When Charles walked into the first club, the twenty six year old was reminded of why he hated it so much. He had loved it when he was a fresh faced eighteen year old, receiving his first assignment from his father.

But now this was Arthurs job, appointed by Lorenzo. He had taken over as head of the family when they lost their father, just a year after Charles had received his first assignment.

The family didn't handle it well. The Leclerc's had almost started a full on war with the Gasly family of France. But Pascale, the matriarch, kept them in check.

The club was disgusting. It was the middle of the day so it was empty, aside from the club manager. The floor was covered in cups and bottles and odd sticky patches that that Charles was sure to avoid. There was the odd condom on the floor; Charles turned his nose up at that.

He checked the books, make sure the money was in order. He swapped out the cash in the safe for the drugs that the club sold. "Get this shithole cleaned up," he commanded the club manager and left.

The second club was much the same. He inspected the books and swapped the money in the safe for the drugs. This club was somehow dirtier than the first one. Several of the stall doors in the bathroom had been kicked in (Charles wasn't happy about leaving money for such things).

The third club Charles knew it be Arthurs favourite.

It wasn't a night club, more like a lounge. The lighting was low, with tables covering the floor. Comfortable, cosy booths lined the walls and the tables in the middle of the of the floor looked equally as comfortable. The art on the wall was tasteful and the air didn't stink like beer and piss.

Soft piano music greeted him and Charles realised why this was Arthurs favourite club. It felt legit.

Charles looked to the piano on the stage at the back of the club. There was a spotlight pointed towards it, illuminating the instrument and the girl playing it. As he approached, Charles watched her fingers dance across the keys. The tune was soft and melodic, not something that he recognised.

She seemed to be the only person in the club. "One second, Arthur!" She called, not looking up from her piano.

Charles stopped short. "I'm sorry?" He called and the piano music stopped. "Are you always familiar with my brother?"

Her eyes were wide as she stood and closed the lid of her grand piano. "Shit," she hissed, but Charles still heard it. "I'm so sorry, Mr Leclerc. I was expecting your brother."

Charles stepped onto the stage. His presence alone was terrifying, a far cry from Arthur, who treated the pianist like an old friend. She couldn't stop her knees from buckling as he approached. "He got shot," Charles said as he sat at the piano. "He'll be back in action soon."

He lifted the lid of the piano and pressed a key. As a boy Chalres had loved the piano. His father had encouraged him to play, but he hadn't touched a piano since Hervé dad passed. Even now, he couldn't bring himself to play more than a few notes.

"Are you the manager here?" Charles asked, again shutting the piano lid. She shook her head, eyes looked towards the bar while he continued to stare at her. "You shouldn't be in here, then."

She sucked in a breath. The gun in his waistband had become apparent the moment he sat at the piano. "Uhm, Arthur gave me a key so that I could come in and practice," she said as she shifted her weight from one foot to the other.

Charles let out something of a controlled huff and stood from the piano. He headed past the stage, to where the office was, and instantly began searching through the desk for the books.

The pianist followed him. "You shouldn't be in here," he said and pulled out the papers he needed. She was still standing in the doorway as he checked through it. "Seriously, get out."

"I'm sorry," she said, still leaning against the door frame. "I just... is Arthur okay?"

Charles stared at her for a moment before nodding his head, but he didn't look happy. "A minor gunshot wound," he said. "He's sleeping on our mouths couch at the moment."

Letting out a relieved breath, she walked away from the back office, allowing Charles to swap the money in the safe for drugs.

When he returned to the main floor, the piano was empty. The lid was open, but the pianist wasn't there. Charles didn't check for where she was.

He sat himself at the piano and pressed three keys in a specific tune. It was all so familiar to him, flooding back to him. It had been so long, but it was natural. It was right.

The pianist, Y/N, was at the bar, getting herself a glass of water. The moment she saw Charles walk to the piano she stopped and watched.

He was hesitant at first, allowing himself to get used to the keys. But it didn't take very long for him to get comfortable. Soon enough he was playing like it was the only thing he knew today.

It wasn't perfect, it was barely good, but it was full of heart and soul. She couldn't tear her eyes away from him as he sped up slightly, getting more and more comfortable. There was nothing in the world but him and the music.

Finishing up the song Charles sucked in and rolled his shoulders. He looked around the club, looked at the empty tables, at the art on the wall and at the bar.

He narrowed his eyes as he stood up and walked over. "Were you watching me?" He demanded and she quickly shook her head, looking down at the glass of water in her hands.

"Don't," he barked and marched out of the club.

Permanent taglist: @biancathecool @rewmuslupin @prettiest-at-the-party @minkyungseokie @formulaal @darleneslane @andydrysdalerogers @hrts4scarr @llando4norris

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

Disturbing the Force

It was an epic day of Harkle shenanigans after just over a month of radio silence from Harry and a week and half without Meghan.

And they both came roaring back to the public consciousness in top form. Let's wind the clock back a little bit, and dive in.

June 14, 2024

It's Trooping Eve, and Kate kicks the celebration off with an update on her health, a new portrait, and an announcement that she will attend The King's Birthday Parade the next day. The social media post goes viral and it becomes breaking news, complete with push alerts.

June 15, 2024

Trooping Saturday. Kate makes her glorious and glamorous return to the public spotlight. Charles, recovering from his own health battle, looks fab as well.

Meghan can't deal with it and orders Nacho Figueras to shill her latest products for Roop ARO, raspberry jam and dog biscuits. The backlash is swift and immediate, and Meghan issues an almost-apology saying she didn't know that Kate would be returning to work on Trooping Saturday and she didn't intend to distract from it.

(Sure, and I didn't intend to drink a whole bottle of prosecco but 🤷‍♀️ here we are, snark and all.)

June 16, 2024

Father's Day. The official BRF social media posts archival footage of Charles and Prince Philip. William posts a photo of himself with Charles. Kate posts a photo of William and the kids with the kids' first post on social media.

The Sussexes don't observe Father's Day, unless you count activating the bots and the Squad to complain about William honoring his father with a photo that doesn't include his father's other son.

June 17, 2024

It's Garter Monday. All is quiet. William looks fantastic, as always. Kate is missed, as always.

June 18, 2024

Royal Ascot begins. It's still quiet. Lady Gabriella makes a public appearance, riding in a carriage with Anne and Peter. She looks to be in high spirits.

Meghan is still smarting over the public calling her out for stealing Kate's glory. She fires up the hotmail and gives exclusive comments to British tabloid Closer (not to be confused with Kyra Sedgwick's The Closer) that:

“Both Harry and Meghan have been following Kate’s recovery with huge interest, but sadly it’s had to be more from afar because their lines of communication with the palace and The Waleses, in particular, are very limited, to say the least. They have had enough information to know that people are excited about the idea of a comeback for Kate and they’re both relieved and happy to hear that she’s on the mend and may soon be well enough to return to her duties. They’ve jointly reached out to send well wishes, but they’re still not really in a place with Kate to warrant much of a response. That hasn’t stopped them from trying to connect and do what they see as the right thing. When Kate gets back into action, their hope is that it might take some of the heat off them and possibly trigger a truce with her and William, and with the King, too.”

and

“Meghan’s desperate to come across as the bigger person and end this feud between them – appearing like some sort of royal saviour could only do her image good. And, despite all their bad blood, her heart does go out to Kate – she can only imagine how hard this situation must be for her. Meghan has made it clear she’d love nothing more than to move past all the nonsense and find a way towards healing for everyone’s sake. She’s ready and willing to let the anger and bitterness go. Of course, it’s not really up to her and Harry, all they can do is continue to reach out and offer olive branches. Meghan hopes her feelings are being communicated to Kate through their mutual friends. There’s no doubt making peace with William and Kate would be a huge relief for Meghan on many levels, not least because it would also improve her reputation and, in turn, the new brand she’s cultivating.”

Y'all, I cannot. Meghan says she has mutual friends with Kate. Ha! That's as believable as "William's friend" giving exclusives to Richard Eden about William's plan for his monarchy.

and

“Meghan would love to be accepted by the British public again and getting the seal of approval from Kate and William would go a long way towards that. It’s got to be pretty nerve-wracking for Meghan, so much is riding on making amends with Kate and William and no matter what she and Harry do, ultimately they have very little control over the outcome, all they can do is continue to reach out, and hope for the best.”

Just to remind everyone, Closer is probably the source of the Sussexes' new British PR person that they promoted pre-Nigeria.

June 19, 2024

William attends Royal Ascot with his cousins and the Middletons. Everyone loves how close he is with his parents-in-law, compared to, well, you know.

Absolutely no one picks up Meghan's interview with Closer (maybe she should've tried Kyra Sedgwick) so Meghan's hotmail tips off the New York Post, who finally writes about it.

(Fun fact. I went to college with a girl who went to school with the Bacon-Sedgwick kids. She told me once that Kevin Bacon is more amazing than you think he is but Kyra is a bitch.)

(Also I'm watching the AFI Achievement Award for Nicole Kidman and she is so fabulous. Oh, man. They're parodying her AMC commercial with MORGAN FREEMAN. Sorry, guys. I really did drink that whole bottle of prosecco so please just bear with me.)

June 20, 2024

Meghan's check to her old stomping grounds, OK Magazine, clears and they write about the Closer's Olive Branch.

June 21, 2024

William's birthday. Kate posts one of the most amazing photographs she's ever taken of William and the kids, jumping off a sand cliff on the beach at Norfolk. One of the things that fascinates me the most about this photo is how William and George (the future kings) are looking at the camera while Charlotte and Louis are looking forward. I suppose someone more sober than me tonight can make an eloquent metaphor about how the kings are looking at their people while the spares are looking for their landing zone.

William takes his kids, Mike and Zara, Peter and Savannah, and some friends to see Taylor Swift. They have an absolutely chaotic time shaking it off, hanging out with Taylor, and meeting the Kelce Brothers.

Wales loyalists photoshop Harry's Friar Tuck into the birthday photo (or maybe it was the Father's Day photo? it was really well-done) and they also do a "who wore it best" of the dueling pink linen suits: Mike Tindall at the Eras Tour or Meghan Markle at the Lakers game.

June 22, 2024

Sussex Squad continue their shenanigans over William's dancing and attendance at the Eras Tour.

Thomas Markle publishes an op-ed in the Daily Mail talking about how all he wants is to talk to Meghan again and see her children.

It reminds me of ancient tea that came out in July 2018 (yes I can remember that specifically because I was riding on a very stinking hot London underground subway at the time) that Meghan and her people were shopping for PR agencies in late 2017/early 2018 and Meghan's brief to the PR agencies included that Samantha and Tom Sr. were to be used as sources and strategies for PR.

Whenever Meghan needs to reset the public narrative, she trots out dear ol' Dad to give her the victim edit. It's her MO, right there next to "throw everyone under the bus."

June 23, 2024

Richard Eden's op-ed that the Sussexes are becoming more irrelevanter than irrelevant gets picked up by American media, including the New York Post. But before you can think "someone forgot to pay them this week!", the article course-corrects, reminding us that the Sussexes had graciously offered to pick up royal duties while Charles and Kate are away but mean William won't let them.

June 24, 2024

The Mirror rubs it in Harry's face that he doesn't stand a chance at inheriting Diana's home. Apparently we're all "surprised" that Earl Spencer's son is set to inherit the estate "due to the aristocracy's system of primogeniture."

That reminds me. Earl Spencer's archaeological dig at Althorp found a roman bracelet. He posted about it on Twitter. (We're allowed to still call it Twitter, according to the Supreme Court.) (And I guess he's still boinking the archaeologist.)

June 25, 2024

The Japan State Visit to the UK begins. William looks fantastic accompanying the Emperor and his wife to the parade grounds to begin the visit. We all wonder what he's going to do because the state banquet takes place the same time as football. Is he going to smuggle his phone to the dinner? (Nope! But he must have required someone at KP to watch the match because their "congratulations" tweet went up lickety-split.)

Charles makes a comment during his toast about his grandchildren and Sussex Squad and anti-Katers seize ahold of it to mean that he's talking about Archie and Lili.

The BRF courts controversy when Sophie wears the Lotus Flower Tiara (famously loaned to Kate) and issues a press release saying that Queen Camilla loaned it to Sophie. Everyone gets mad and blog-shouts how dare she but I think it's a nothingburger. You can see that the tiara still "belongs" to Kate because the velvet wrapping on the brace is still the dark brown of Kate's hair (as opposed to being changed to yellow for Sophie's hair) so probably Kate meant to wear it but she couldn't attend, so it was given to Sophie because of what the lotus symbolizes in Japanese culture. (I have another anon that wrote in about this. I'll post it soon.)

Not to be outdone, Meghan's hotmail tells Marie Claire Magazine to promote her latest olive branch (from Closer on June 18th, but they quote OK Magazine's story from June 20th).

June 26, 2024

Scotty's Little Soldiers published a tearful video discussion their founder, Nikki Scott, had with Harry over loss and grief. Harry talked about losing his mother. Nikki talked about dealing with the loss of her husband and having to tell her then-five year old child.

Harry has supported Scotty's Little Soldiers since 2017 when he met the founder at a Buckingham Palace event. Harry later named Scotty's Little Soldiers as one of seven charities for his wedding.

The video doesn't really get much attention, largely going unnoticed by most. (There's some speculation it was filmed last week or when Harry was last in the UK (May for the Invictus anniversary) but I am one with the couch now.)

June 27, 2024

It was a busy, busy day for the Sussexes!

First, There was a ruling in one of Harry's lawsuits, which drops a bomb that Harry is being accused by News Group Newspapers (whom he's suing in one of his umpteen lawsuits in the phone hacking case that won't go away) of having destroyed evidence for the lawsuit. In a (tipsy) nutshell (I mean, let's face it, you do sorta have to be tipsy to understand the lawsuits), NGN wants Harry to disclose what information / evidence he has, or has knowledge of existing, supporting his allegations of the phone hacking. They are trying to find out if Harry knew he had a claim (aka grounds for a lawsuit) before 2013. If they can prove he did, then the case can be thrown out because it was filed too late.

The judge is concerned that Harry's lawyers hasn't addressed that issue and he doesn't like that Harry has been doing all the research himself and - reading between the lines - it's a veiled accusation of obstruction because it sounds like Harry has refused to cooperate with the lawyers by deliberately controlling and withholding his records from evidence disclosure. NGN says "We have had to drag those out of the claimant [Harry] kicking and screaming."

Additionally, the judge revealed "troubling evidence" that tons of messages between Harry and his Spare ghostwriter over emails and apps had been destroyed. (This is the destruction of evidence issue.

Ah, the neighbors have started shooting off July 4th fireworks. *eagle screech of freedom*)

The judge ruled that Harry and/or his team:

Must conduct a wider search of his laptop and WhatsApp account(s) for the missing emails, texts, and messages for exchanges from 2005 through early 2023

Must try to retrieve the messages from the Signal app he used to communciate with his Spare ghostwriter.

Must produce a witness statement to explain his exchanges with the ghostwriter (which could lead to testimony from the ghostwriter -- juicy!)

Must send letters to the royal household and their lawyers requesting copies relating to Harry's communications during this time so they could be examined for relevance and applicability. Two people from the royal household were named and y'all, I don't think they're happy about getting dragged into this.

Must make an interim payment of 60,000 pounds to NGN for their costs of the hearing. (I don't know why.)

(Reuters Link)

Second, the ESPYs announced today that Harry will be receiving their Pat Tillman Award for Service for his work with Invictus Games.

Here is what the press release says about Harry's selection:

In honor of his tireless work in making a positive impact for the veteran community through the power of sport, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex will receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service, an award given to a person with a strong connection to sports who has served others in a way that echoes the legacy of the former NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger, Pat Tillman. After serving for 10 years in the British Armed Forces, including two tours of duty in Afghanistan as a forward air controller and Apache helicopter pilot, Prince Harry founded The Invictus Games Foundation, continuing his service by creating an international platform to support wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women – both active-duty and veterans – who are navigating both physical and invisible injuries. Since inception, the Games have transcended borders and impacted lives across every continent, bringing together competitors from 23 nations, with continued support and programming 365 days of the year. Now celebrating its tenth year, The Invictus Games has evolved into a globally celebrated and acclaimed organization that celebrates resilience, community, and healing through the power of sport. Past recipients of the Pat Tillman Award for Service include Jake Wood (2018), Kirstie Ennis (2019), Kim Clavel (2020), Marcus Rashford (2021), Gretchen Evans (2022) and the Buffalo Bills Training Staff (2023). 

Yeah, we're all sorts of pissed off because it's clear that Harry bought the award because he certainly doesn't qualify for it. Invictus Games qualifies for the award; not their bratty founder who takes all the credit.

It was totally purchased for the 10th anniversary of Invictus and to help Harry look important, like he actually does something and is worth everything he grifts gets. Speaking of, they haven't announced the 2027 host yet. Small mercies, I suppose. I wouldn't put it past them to try and announce it during the Olympics, because one thing Harry (and Meghan too) is very good at is not being able to read the fucking room.

According to the tea that has leaked out, the ESPY announcement caught many off-guard at ESPN because it was not meant to happen today (check out the comments here), leading to theories that:

The Sussexes are trying to bury the news that Harry's lawsuit isn't going well and that he's been reamed out in court.

Harry is trying to compete with William, who is attending a conference today for Earthshot 2023 winners with Bill Gates and Hannah Waddingham.

It's a tactical PR campaign to prop Hero Harry up for the UK's observance of Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 29th.

or

4. All of the above.

(if you guessed #4, you're right!)

Third, in the most amazing of coincidences, Meghan Markle was papped in Beverly Hills merching a tracksuit for a photo shoot. Since it was near a popular coffee shop, my theory is that she's doing something for that Clevr thing, the one she did the commercial for last year. Maybe some kind of corporate partnership with her lifestyle brand. Clevr + ARO = the tracksuit fashion no one but Sue Sylvester needs.

Anyway. That's what you missed on Glee.

[lilghostiequinni]

All We Need

Main Masterlist Lestappen Masterlist

Pairing: girlfriend!female reader x Max Verstappen x Charles Leclerc

Warnings: Fluffy,

Summary: It's always fun when they're happy on a podium.

Requested: NO / yes

With the diminishing power of Red Bull and the constant strategy mess-ups from Ferrari, your boyfriends didn't always have the best week, weeks at times it feels.

It had been weeks since they had shared a podium or Charles on the podium at all.

Granted, it was Lando who took first and Max took second, but it didn't matter to you; both your boys were on the podium, and it always made the three of you happy.

Max and Charles were always happy for their friend. It was only his second win, and Max would never discredit his friend, Lando was a good driver. He deserved the win.

Charles thought the same and more happy for Lando than himself for being on the podium for the first time in a while.

You stood in the crowd watching as the three celebrated their podium finish, an exact replica of Lando's first win.

Later that night, you stood by the bar as you watched the same three celebrate the race finish.

While many would've thought it weird or crazy that you were just watching rather than celebrating, it was what you preferred.

Being hidden in the background rather than in the spotlight like your boyfriends.

Also, you knew how your boyfriends worked when they were out and happy before going out, so you stayed mostly sober in order to be able to get back to the hotel; you did have help from Oscar, who was fourth in the race.

You watched Max and Charles party for a few more hours before helping Oscar call cabs for the three drunkest who couldn't do much for themselves.

Oscar takes care of Lando, and you take care of Max and Charles.

Getting the two to the room was easy, but getting them to bed was harder.

They kept trying to get you into bed.

But they were so drunk they could hardly stand; you were sure that at one point, Charles hit his head, and Max ran into a wall.

As soon as their heads hit the pillows, they were out like a light, and you were chuckling at how they seemed to fight over cuddling the same pillow that was between, which would have been your spot.

A/N: From this poll, just a drabble

Tags: @ellen3101

If you want to be removed from a tag list, let me know so I don't keep tagging you. If you are striked through, I don't know if you want to be tagged, but just let me know if you want me to continue or stop

[lecsainz]

Met Gala Interview

pairings: charles leclerc x influencer!reader (faceclaim nicola peltz)

summary: Y/N is getting ready for the met gala and preparing for an interview with vogue.

authors note: there's probably going to be a part two, and i didn't know there was a limit to the number of photos you can add here 🤦‍♀️😭

It's the night of the Met Gala, and Y/N is getting ready for the biggest event of the year. She's also scheduled to give an interview to Vogue while she gets ready, and she's excited to share some details about her personal life.

"Can you tell us more about him? What does he do?"

Y/N hesitates for a moment. She knows that Charles is a Formula 1 driver and a pretty big deal in the racing world, but she doesn't want to mention that and steal the spotlight from her own accomplishments.

"Well, he's in the sports industry," she says vaguely. "He's very passionate about what he does, and he works incredibly hard."

"That's great to hear. And what about his fashion sense? Is he as stylish as you are?"

Y/N bites her lip, trying not to laugh. Charles has many talents, but fashion is definitely not one of them.

The interviewer chuckles. "Sounds like quite the character. So, what's next for you and Charles?"

As Y/N finishes getting ready and heads off to the Met Gala with a smile on her face, she can't help but feel grateful for Charles and the joy he brings to her life, even if his fashion choices sometimes leave something to be desired.

🚨 Vogue had just announced on their social media that the highly anticipated second part of Y/N's interview was coming soon, and it would feature a special guest appearance. The announcement had fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the release of the second part of the interview with the special guest appearance. Vogue had once again sparked the excitement and anticipation of the fashion world.

[vinvantae]

Unmasked

Part 11/16

<<< previous part

Word count - 4.1k

warnings - minor injury. lots of social media posts. chapter starts off in first person!!

***

It’s a comfortably warm morning in Monaco, the café I’ve been asked to go to is quaint - tucked away in a narrow street off of the beaten path but you get a perfect view of anyone coming towards you. A waiting game to see which of the people who cross my path is going to be her. I can’t help but study every woman who steps onto the cobblestones, but as soon as I see none other than Charles Leclerc come around the corner, hand in hand with a woman - it all clicks into place.

Y/n y/l/n is Thirty.

Both of them greet me with a smile and a warm handshake as they step inside the cafe - bringing a cool breeze in as they open the door. Charles looks smart in a linen shirt, chain around his neck, and a watch more expensive than a regular person’s annual salary on his wrist. And y/n looks effortlessly beautiful in a sundress to complement the warm weather, before I can start digging into her being Thirty I have to ask about her perfume - her signature smell is to die for. She laughs, pulling out a travel size from her purse to offer it to me, swearing she has a full size at home.

As you can imagine, I have a lot of questions. But let’s just start at the beginning, how did the whole Faceless driver idea come about?

Y/n leans back in her seat a little, Charles’ tanned arm is draped lazily across the back and he uses his hand to squeeze her shoulder.

Ferrari were really interested in having me as part of the team but it was risky y’know? A woman, let alone an 18 year old woman in one of the top teams was unheard of.

She pauses as the waiter takes our order, Charles ordering for us all in Italian - I can’t help but notice the way y/n studies him, a soft sparkle in her eye. Their relationship seems easy and when she turns her attention back to me, she seems a little more sure of herself.

I was part of the Ferrari academy since I joined GP3, but that and then F2 just never felt truly challenging to me and I craved more. F1 was where I belonged, it was just about getting there. I believe it was Maurizio Arrivabene who ended up suggesting keeping my identity a secret. The press from that alone brought in more sponsors than the team had ever seen and as you know, Ferrari has never had much difficulty with that.

Her answers are rehearsed, not in a media trained way, but in a way of a woman who has had to keep her identity a secret for her whole career and is finally getting to speak the truth. I understand why she would want Charles here, her teammate and boyfriend is a calming presence - keeping quiet as he knows she deserves the spotlight after all these years.

You never won a championship in F2, how did you convince them that you were good enough for F1?

She takes a sip of her drink, taking a deep breath before softly shrugging her shoulders as if she’s not entirely sure herself.

I spent a lot of time in simulators and they could see what I could do on track from the races in F2 and GP3 that I did win. I like to think it was never a question of if I was talented enough for F1, not to be cocky, but I knew I was - it was whether or not it was worth risking me in Ferrari or if maybe I should start in a sister team. But in the end, it was for the best. I won them two championships after all, so I’d like to think that it was worth it.

Speaking of championships, not only are you the only woman to win the WDC but also the youngest overall, how did you feel?

A fond smile tugs at her lips and she reaches into her bag to pull out a small stack of photos. She slides one across the table to me - it’s of her in her driver’s room, helmet off but still in her full kit with her arms wrapped around the trophy that won her the title. I asked her who took it and she told me it was ‘Seb’ - Sebastian Vettel.

I was so overwhelmed. Everything I had ever dreamed of had come true but I couldn’t share it with anyone outside of Team Thirty and, of course, Seb. He brought a bottle of champagne up to my room and we drank the whole thing. It was one of the best days of my life, wouldn’t change it. If being faceless was what gave me the opportunity to accomplish my dream? Then I’m grateful for it.

And then you won your second in 2018, how was that?

Even better than the first time. Lewis and I had such an intense rivalry for those couple of years that it was such a strong feeling of victory. We raced so well against each other and really brought out the best in each other, I think. I’m not sure if he feels the same but I’m glad that we got to share that experience.

The couple both offer me another drink in unison when they notice I’ve finished mine, sharing a soft laugh when they realise. Charles leans over and presses a gentle kiss to her temple before taking our empty cups up to the counter to get us some more coffees. The two seemed so in sync as teammates, it’s no surprise that they work well as a couple too.

How was the transition when Charles joined the team? You’d been teammates with Sebastian for your entire career up until that point.

Honestly? It was a little scary at first. Seb was a mentor for me and when I had to meet Charles properly for the first time I was worried about how he would react. But, he’s been nothing but good to me. Before we started dating he’d always sneak into my driver’s room to keep me company and made sure that no matter how my race went - I had someone to talk to about it. He’s become my rock and I’m so lucky to have him.

He pushes me to be better, but has never let me be anything but myself.

When Charles returns to the table with a tray with fresh cups of coffee, he hands them out to us before sitting down - shuffling his chair closer to y/n so he can fully drape his arm across her shoulders. She relaxes in his hold, looking away from me for a moment to thank him for the drinks.

I know we’re interviewing y/n, but Charles, what was it like having to keep formula one’s biggest secret?

Difficult. He frowns a little. The amount of times I wanted to properly congratulate y/n or correct people when they said he was insane. I know I may get in trouble for this but I think keeping her hidden for so long was a mistake. Other women and girls should’ve been able to know that one of them was a formula 1 racer and a champion. She’s one of the greatest of our generation and she should’ve been celebrated properly.

I can see she’s touched by Charles’ words, despite - I’m sure - he’s said them to her before. This article is about learning about Thirty, yes, but I don’t think I can truly do that justice without talking about how the pair of them interact. I’m not sure whether it’s the years they’ve been teammates or the time they’ve been a couple but they just complement each other so easily.

So, you were teammates through 2020 and 2021, how did this relationship happen and why now?

The two of them share a look, one - as a journalist - I’m familiar with; whilst they do truly seem to care for each other, I have a suspicion there’s something they can’t tell me. But I don’t press.

I think during 2020 we were still just strangers, getting to know each other as people and as teammates. We didn’t spend a whole lot of time together outside of Team Thirty meetings or on the track y’know? And then 2021 I was in that title fight right up to the end so it just didn’t seem like the right time as I couldn’t really give him the attention he deserved.

We did begin to really become friends during 2021, he would make the extra effort to see me outside of meetings. And whilst Charles has since told me that he’s had these feelings for a long time, it took me a little longer. We’re definitely a case of he fell first, but I fell harder. I’m so smitten with this boy, you have no idea.

Charles was watching her as she spoke, the undeniable pink tinge of his cheeks was hard to miss. No matter what they were keeping to themselves, it was clear the two of them were very happy together. But it was time for more questions about the Thirty of it all.

So, why now? You’ve been faceless for nearly 6 years, what changed?

Well, after it leaked that I was a woman and I won the race in Imola - Team Thirty and I had a very big meeting about it. I’ve been ready to face the world for a while but with the team determined for another championship win this year, it was originally put on the back burner. But, I knew it was time. This year I could win my 3rd title and I wanted to do it with my face, my name not just a number.

I’ve also had so much support from both Charles and Sebastian with this. They helped me figure out just what to say to the team to convince them that now is the right time. I don’t know how long I’ve got left in this sport but I want to be here as y/n for at least some of it.

She excuses herself from the table to go to the restroom, that same fragrance from before following her as she walks past me. Charles sips at his coffee before leaning forward a little as if he’s got something juicy to share. I can’t help but be intrigued, leaning in also to listen.

She’s gonna do it, you know. The WDC is hers this year.

What about you? I ask. Shocked that he’d admit it about his teammate, he’s the Tifosi’s golden boy and is ahead of her in terms of points. He simply smiles and shrugs his shoulders.

I think now she’s got this out in the open, there’s truly nothing holding her back. She’s going to be unstoppable behind the wheel- this weight of her secret won’t weigh her down anymore. Yes, I want to be world champion, and you bet I’m going to fight for it until the very end… but I would be lying if I didn’t think she deserved it.

He straightens up in his seat as she returns, smiling as she leans down to kiss him before taking her seat - asking if she missed anything important. I know she’ll read what Charles said when the article is released but for now I keep it to myself, simply shaking my head.

Okay, let’s mix it up, get to know y/n a little more. What is your favourite track and why?

I think Bahrain is always going to hold a special place in my heart, I got my first win there. But, if I had to choose an all time favourite…I think it has to be a tie between Imola and Monza. Being surrounded by the Tifosi in such hoards really makes you want to do your best. Seeing oceans of red as you drive around is inspiring knowing all these people are in your corner. Now, I know in recent years, they’ve taken a particular liking to a certain Monaco native but they always showed me nothing but support and I hope they continue to do so now they know who I am.

Speaking of the Tifosi, do you have anything you want to say to them?

I mostly want to thank them for being my biggest supporters despite not knowing who was beneath the helmet. Thank you a million over Tifosi, I love you guys more than you’ll ever know.

Who was your racing hero growing up?

Oh there’s so many drivers out there I love but Susie Wolff for sure - she’s such an inspiration to women everywhere. And I know it’s probably silly but Lella Lombardi too, I know she only got half a point in her career but she made it into formula one when everything was against her and other women. But as a kid, it had to be Michael Schumacher. I met him a couple of times and he was nothing but kind to me. He was always honest with me that it was going to be tougher being a girl but he always believed in me and that… that was everything.

We’ve also heard through the grapevine that you’ve been approached by several other teams for next season, anything we should know there?

She smiles softly before shaking her head. Ferrari have actually matched the best offer I received, but at the end of the day they’re the team I want to race with so we’ve extended my contract for at least one more season - hopefully more. Besides, I’ve got the best teammate a girl could ask for.

Charles chuckled softly. Back at you, mon amour.

I think that’s all I really have to ask for now, thank you both so much for meeting with me. I’m not sure what I expected but you exceeded my expectations.

Oh wow, thank you so much. Thank you for being so kind… If I ever need to do another interview, you’ll be the first person I call. That’s for sure.

So there you have it, y/n y/ln is our mystery driver. I don’t know about you but I cannot wait to see what she does now that she’s been unmasked. This season has just got very interesting.

***

***

You weren’t a fool, you knew there was going to be a little push-back to your reveal - but there was a very loud minority who made it abundantly clear just how much they hated you, that they just didn’t believe you could possibly be the driver they had been supporting all these years. Within an hour of GQ releasing the article, #NotMyThirty was trending within the F1 community. They’d called you every insult under the sun and it was hard to focus on the praise when they were so loud and the press focused so much on the criticism. It didn’t help that once you’d been revealed, a certain Redbull team principal decided you weren’t worth the offer they made and he very publicly retracted it.

“Y/n, cherie.” You felt the mattress sink next to you as Charles sat beside you on the bed - the duvet pulled over your head. “We need to go soon, have a plane to catch.”

“...why don’t they just get Jenson to do it. Or better yet, get Michael up and on his feet so he can get in the car when I couldn’t possibly be a two time world champion.” You grumbled. “I’m just a stupid paddock-bunny.”

Charles frowned softly. “Hey. Those idiots have no idea what they’re talking about. You’re one of the greatest talents of our generation, they’re just jealous fools who couldn’t get into the sport if they tried.”

The Monegasque smiled softly as you peeked over the top of the duvet. It was hard for you to believe him but you knew he was going to sit there until he got you out of bed - so you put on your best fake smile. “You always know just what to say, huh?”

He pressed a soft kiss to your forehead, pulling a gentle hum from you. “Mhmm hmm, I’ve got a talent for it. Now seriously, get your beautiful butt out of bed… we’ve got a flight to catch.”

You weren’t sure what to expect when you arrived in Miami, Charles’ hand wrapped around yours as you both stepped into the paddock. The cameras and press were on you in a literal flash, you simply smiled and waved a little. “Hey, y/n, look.”

When you followed the direction of Charles’ finger, your heart skipped a beat when you saw fans at the barrier with signs for you. The loud minority who despised you were currently nowhere to be seen - people shouting and cheering. Your boyfriend was positively beaming as he tugged you over to them, you couldn’t believe people actually wanted your autograph and pictures with you.

You could feel tears prickling in your eyes when a young girl told you just how much it meant to her that she had a female idol in the sport. It was hard not wrap your arms around her and never let go so instead you took a photo with her. “I got you a present… made it as soon as I found out you were a girl like me, it’s a bit messy ‘cus I didn’t have a lot of time.”

As you held your hand out, she slipped a bracelet around your wrist - it was made out of chunky plastic beads; flowers, fake pearls and the word Thirty written out in pink. It was the girliest thing you had ever seen but you could tell just how much it meant to the girl - her little eyes sparkling as she waited for your response.

“I love it! Thank you so much!” You grinned. “Hey, I’ve got something for you as well.”

You took your cap off of your head and scribbled your signature on the brim before sitting it atop her head. “Think this suits you much better.”

Your heart felt full as she turned to her Dad and bounced with glee, showing off her brand new present. You smiled softly and as you turned to Charles, you were suddenly hit with a sharp pain in the side of the head, right by your eyebrow - making you wince and reach up, eyes widening when you pulled your hand back and you saw blood on your fingers. You only just saw a glimpse of security dragging a man shouting expletives away from the crowd. “Oh my god, y/n, are you okay?”

“Yeah uh… what..” You blinked a few times, feeling a little dizzy, eyes scanning the floor to see what he’d hit you with - eyes landing on a crumpled up can, as you pushed your toe against it, you could feel there was still some liquid in it. “I… I uh…I think I should probably go to the medical centre, just to be safe.”

“Of course, shit, yeah.” Charles looped an arm around your waist and helped you through the paddock. Before you left, you caught the eyes of the young girl again and the look on her face broke you - she looked terrified. She was the walking personification of how you felt in that moment.

You had to fight back the tears as the two of you walked through the paddock - the memory of meeting some of your fans for the first time, tainted forever by that one dickhead in a Redbull cap. You were expecting some hatred, but you weren’t expecting physical violence. As you stepped into the medical centre, you were immediately ushered into a room and patched up.

“I can’t believe he did that, cherie. I’m so sorry… I-I should’ve been paying better attention.”

Your brow furrowed as you got up from the exam table, the medic having left the two of you alone. Charles stood against the wall, head lowered as you crossed the room to join him.

“Hey, hey.” You took his face in your hands. “Don’t you dare, you couldn’t have known he was going to do that… I… I’m starting to think this was a mistake.”

“Y/n-”

You shook your head. “I’m sorry, I just… I knew there was going to be some backlash but, I’m not sure I’m cut out for this…”

“Cherie-”

“Can I just be alone for a little while, please? I’ll catch up with you later.”

Your teammate’s eyes flickered across you, you could tell he wanted to protest but instead he pressed a chaste kiss to your lips before leaving you alone. The lights in the room hummed softly as you sat down in the empty chair beside the exam table, covering your face with your hands and letting out a soft sob.

Being unmasked was what you’ve wanted for as long as you could remember, but you hadn’t taken the time to really think about exactly what that meant. That your face, your name would be out there for everyone to pick apart. You wanted to put on a brave face and go out there, pretend it didn’t bother you but it did.

None of your achievements mattered - all that they cared about is that you were a woman, a fake, the drivers’ personal mattress. And your relationship with Charles was thrown right back in your face, the defending Ferrari was supposed to be doing didn’t seem to be helping at all. Any time the PR team spoke to the press, people always had some sort of comeback - another reason to add to the list of why you didn’t deserve any of it.

You rubbed your eyes and took a deep breath, trying to shove all of the cruel accusations to the back of your head as you left the medical centre. As you turned towards the Ferrari motorhome, you saw Lewis leant against the wall - foot propped up against the wall as he scrolled on his phone, no one even batting an eye at him. He looked up at the sound of the door closing and gave you a gentle smile, pushing his phone into his pocket. “Hey, I just came to check if you’re okay. I heard what happened.”

“Said it was gonna come up as a bit of a black-eye but I’ll be alright.” You shrugged.

“I’m more worried about how you’re feeling, y/n. I know no one knows what you’re going through right now but I’ve been through similar enough crap to know that it’s not fun being singled out for something you can’t help.” His voice was soft as he stepped closer. “And I know it’s easier said than done but you just gotta try and ignore it.”

“...I don’t know if I can.” Your voice cracked. “Th-They’re attacking insecurities I didn’t even know I had. I’m not sure I’m cut out for this, Lewis.”

He looked around the paddock before checking his watch. “We’ve got some time, come with me.”

You lowered your head and followed your fellow driver into the Mercedes motorhome through a back entrance and up to his room - his dark eyes flickering back to you to make sure you were following close behind him. With a hand on the small of your back he ushered you into his room, closing the door behind. “You should probably text Charles, let him know you’re here.”

“Uh yeah… Yeah, good idea.”After texting your boyfriend, you sat beside your rival on the sofa, his arm draped across the back. “They’re going to crucify me if I have any bad races. Any mistake, any slip up… they’re going to drag me to hell and back. I just… I know I should ignore it, I do, but it’s hard to ignore when it’s smacking me in the side of the face.”

“”I know, I get it. I’ve been there… you just need to try and remember you’re not alone. I’ve got your back, so do Charles, Max and Sebastian. Don’t disappear into yourself, okay?” His voice was gentle but firm, but it just felt so quiet compared to the throbbing pain you felt in your temple.

You nodded. “Yeah, I know. Thank you… I should get going.”

You were taken a little aback when you were pulled into a hug as you stood, his strong arms would’ve made you feel safe in any other circumstance you were sure - but you just felt so defeated by it all. You gave him a gentle squeeze before heading towards your own garage, Charles throwing you a worried look from his side - still unsure how you’d ended up with Lewis. You simply nodded at him before popping into a side room to get into your racegear, ready to get into the car for the first time without your mask on.

“Hey, how’s the suit fit?” Your trainer approached you, a gentle smile on his face. “Must feel good that it’s finally got your name on it, right?”

“Uh yeah, it fits good.” To the untrained eye, the smile on your face was simply of a distracted person - getting ready to race, but Charles could read you like a book and he just knew something was wrong. Something more than a slight headache and the bruise blossoming around your eye was weighing you down and getting into the car in the mental headspace you were in was trouble waiting to happen.

But before he could cross over to you, try and clear your head just a little bit, he was summoned for first practice - one of his mechanics ushering him over to his car, allowing the driver to get one final glance at you as you pulled your helmet over your head.

All he could do now was hope that you wouldn’t get in your own way - as having a bad weekend would just sink you deeper into the feeling you weren’t good enough. You were a champion for a reason. But the minority who despised you were tearing you down, blocking your view from who you truly were and he hated that.

You took a deep breath from inside the cockpit, trying your best to block out the voices bouncing around your head as your engineer went over the programmes you would be running during the session. You just had to do well this weekend, no, not just well… you had to win. Everything was resting on your shoulders, they expected results now you were unmasked.

And you were terrified of what they’d do if you didn't.

***

************************

Next part >>>

Really hope you guys enjoyed this one!! There will be no chapter next weekend because I’m going to Silverstone 🏎️

Thank you for all your support on this fic!

Want to be notified when I post? Join our discord, head over to #reaction-roles and click the sunflower 🌻

[nataliawrites]

My Boyfriend’s Not in the Mafia // Charles Leclerc

I’ve been having issues with my posts disappearing from the tags so I’m going to give reposting this a try

It was funny at first. You didn’t really think anything of it the first time … or the second … or the third.

When you landed your dream job straight out of college and traded in the familiar streets of your hometown for the glitz and glam of Monaco, you didn’t know what to expect. But the reality ended up being more than you could have dreamed of.

You had a crooked cobblestone and poorly closed latte to thank for that. One wrong step saw you flung across the sidewalk. Fortunately, someone managed to catch you before your head became the street’s next victim. Unfortunately, his white linen shirt also caught the remnants of your coffee.

That’s how you met Charles Leclerc. Who needs a meet cute when you could have a “I’m mortified and can’t ever show my face in the second-smallest sovereign state in the world again” cute?

Of course you didn’t exactly know who he was at first but the gigantic billboard of his face next to the Prancing Horse that you passed on the way to your first date clued you in pretty quickly.

As you became more serious, you never intended to keep your relationship secret. But it was the off-season and that meant that Charles could mostly stay out of the spotlight while the two of you relished in your own little bubble. The honeymoon phase never felt sweeter.

But then your coworkers started asking questions. They saw the Ferrari (and the other Ferrari and the other Ferrari and the other Ferrari) that often dropped you off in the mornings and picked you up at night. They saw how you started to rush out for your lunch break instead of spending it in the office. They saw the new earrings and bracelets and necklaces and shoes and lots and lots of red accents.

“Who is he?”

You turn towards your coworker, Stephanie, as you go to refill your water bottle after lunch. “Who is who?”

She wiggles an eyebrow, “Your new man!”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Your other coworker, Jacob, walks over from across the room. “Don’t be coy. We have eyes.”

Stephanie laughs, “And my eyes are telling me that you’ve found yourself a trust fund kid. No judgement here — get that bag!”

“One,” your raise a finger, “he’s not a trust fund kid. And two,” you raise another, “it’s not about money. I really like him.”

Stephanie squeals with as much zeal as she can manage in a corporate office, “I knew it! You have a man.”

Jacob chimes in, “So trust fund kid’s out … I’m betting on an oligarch.”

“Or a torrid affair with a politician.” Stephanie seems way too excited at the prospect.

You roll your eyes good-naturedly, “He does something much more dangerous.”

“He’s in the mafia?”

“Damn, you’ve got yourself a mobster.”

You don’t grace them with a reply, just laughing the teasing away.

You should have just straight up denied it. You knew that. But you were having too much fun and what harm could a little joke possibly have? You just didn’t expect the photos you posted on Instagram from when you joined Charles in Maranello and then explored northern Italy together to have your work friends quite so suspicious.

Stephanie and Jacob corner you as soon as you step out of the elevator on your first day back from vacation.

Stephanie starts, “So Italy …”

“Where the mafia is from. What a coincidence!” Jacob finishes.

“Wait,” Stephanie focuses on your neck, “that’s a new necklace.” She spots the patent red bottoms of your new more fashion than function stilettos, “and those are new shoes!”

“We were in Milan!” You explained. “You can’t not go shopping in Milan.”

“Yeah,” Jacob laughs, “you and your mafioso sugar daddy.”

To be fair, the phone call they overheard between you and Charles the next day didn’t help much.

“Did you manage to get the blood out?”

He sighed through the phone, “Yes, finally! Only took me two hours of scrubbing. Remind me not to scratch my leg on a cliff and not notice while it bleeds on my car’s leather the next time we go to the beach.”

Your back turned to them, you don’t even notice the wide eyed look that Stephanie and Jacob exchange.

When your birthday approached right before the season started up, you finally decided to introduce Charles to your friends. Your family, the Leclercs, and your friends would be joining you for dinner at your favorite local restaurant.

Charles was standing next to you, welcoming your guests and inviting them to sit down for dinner, when Stephanie and Jacob walked in.

You think they would’ve looked less shocked if Charles was actually in the mafia.

Jacob stutters, “You’re … you’re-”

“CHARLES LECLERC!” Stephanie managed to find her voice.

Charles extended a hand and chuckled, “Hope I don’t disappoint. Y/N told me you thought I was in the mafia. I’m not quite at that level.”

Your best friends from work turned the same color as Charles’ race suit.

[lxclerc]

insta au - carlos sainz + going to a premier with actress!reader

pairing: carlos sainz jr x reader INSTAGRAM AU

Liked by charles_leclerc, landonorris and others

carlossainz55 you are the brightest star, cariño

View all 5,729 comments...

yourusername muchas gracias, mi amor. te amo ❤️

carlossainz55 mi corazón

user1 he's her biggest fan 🥹

user2 congrats to y/n! she absolutely deserves it and more ❤️❤️

charles_leclerc you look smashing, mate!

carlossainz55 it'd be embarrassing not to dress up when i'm next to her

user3 carlos bf duties

landonorris why wasn't i invited?

yourusername it was a no kids allowed event i'm afraid

user4 she didn't have to do lando like that 😭

Liked by landonorris, danielricciardo and others

yourusername can't even blame him from stealing the spotlight when he looks like that

View all 3,462 comments...

carlossainz55 no one can ever steal the spotlight from you, mi amor

landonorris you two make me nauseous

yourusername ay get off my page, landito

user1 carlos and y/n parenting lando will always be my favorite

charles_leclerc he does look very good

yourusername our boyfriend looks hot, doesn't he?

user2 charles and y/n sharing one boyfriend

user3 the second picture altered my brain's chemistry

charlottesiine congratulations, mon bébé! so proud of you 🤍

yourusername i miss you, please come over soon!!

Liked by landonorris, charles_leclerc and others

yourusername the after party and the hangover the day after

View all 4,639 comments...

user1 they are literally the hottest couple to ever exist 😭😭😭

user2 no one has the right to look that good hangover

charles_leclerc i thought i get him this week?

yourusername sorry, will have to extend his stay with me till next week

charles_leclerc 😡😡

user3 charles and y/n sharing custody of carlos 😭

user4 fuck romeo and juliet, i want what these bitches have

carlossainz55 tan hermosa ❤️

yourusername no, you

landonorris 🙄🙄🙄

yourusername🖕🖕

user4 y/n always fighting with charles and lando over carlos 😭

[cieloclercs]

𝐬𝐚𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐝𝐞 | chapter two

pairings: charles leclerc x senna!oc part: 2/? warnings: angst, fluff!! mini charles being cute, gabriel and noa being dad and daughter goals, lotss of google translate word count: 5.6k

SAUDADE. in which childhood rivals turned best friends realise they were always meant to be something more

02. it’s supposed to be fun

author’s note. i absolutely loved writing this chapter! the flashbacks are going to come into play a bit more in the next couple, and i’m so excited to write them! young noa and charles are just adorable 🥰 hope you guys liked this, and as always a like, comment or reblog would really be appreciated <3

read it on wattpad!

previous: chapter 1 next ➜ chapter 3

18 September 2011                                                                                      Sarno-Napoli, Italy                                                                                           KF3 CIK-FIA World Cup

TEN-YEAR-OLD ARTHUR LECLERC is bored. He’s been stood with his parents, who are talking quietly amongst themselves, for at least an hour, waiting for his older brother Charles to return. Now, Arthur loves karting as much as the next person, but when he’s not competing, it really does drag. There’s so much in-between time, where racers and their managers talk strategy, or slight mechanical changes are made to karts. Arthur never really realised it until now, when he’s got nothing to do but watch the others hurry about doing what he normally would be. It’s nothing short of tedious. And besides that, he’s annoyed – he’s only missed out on being eligible to compete in Charles’ age category by a couple of months, and to him, it seems mightily unfair that just because he’s born in October he has to stand by the wayside.

But there’s nothing Arthur can do about it now. He’s here to watch his brother race, not mope around. So, in an attempt to entertain himself, he settles for a spot of people-watching. There are always lots of interesting characters in the paddock: from overbearing fathers who seem to think just because they’ve sat in a kart before they’re now experts on the sport, to worried mothers, and even a few celebrities here and there. After all, there are some kids both he and Charles have raced against before who are the children of some pretty famous racers. It’s mostly them Arthur is keeping a look out for, but he doesn’t get his hopes up – he’s learnt that they mostly stay out of the spotlight, presumably to avoid being mobbed by a bunch of teenagers begging for autographs. He says that as if he wouldn’t be a part of that mob. Still, it’s fun to hope. Or, as fun as anything can be when he’s had absolutely nothing to do for an hour.

“Maman, quand est-ce que Charles revient?” Mum, when is Charles coming back? He asks, turning his head up to gaze at his mother, who smiles down at him sympathetically.

“Bientôt, mon petit.” Soon, little one. She assures him, running a gentle hand through his hair. Arthur tries not to huff too loudly. She said the exact same thing half an hour ago.

He turns back to his people watching, a frown knitting his eyebrows together. For a moment, he’s too annoyed to pay attention to what’s right in front of him – it goes straight over his head. Then his vision clears, and the frown lifts from his face, immediately replaced by a look of shock.

It can’t be, he thinks. Arthur breaks free of his mother’s hold to step forward on his tiptoes, craning his neck over the sea of heads. He’s sure he must have been hallucinating when he can’t pick out that all-too-familiar figure in the crowd. Disappointment rushes through him, and he rocks back on his heels again. His head turns ever-so-slightly to the side.

And there it is once more. Arthur practically jumps, as, sure enough, a little over to his left across the other side of the paddock, there is one of his greatest Formula 1 idols. Gabriel Carvalho Borges. He stands there, seemingly without a care in the world, gazing down fondly at a young girl in racing gear who is standing close to his side. There are two other people with him as well – the first, a beautiful woman, with dark curls that reach just past her shoulders; and the second, a little boy, maybe a year or so younger than Arthur himself, who is swinging off the woman’s arm excitably. Arthur assumes she must be his wife: Flávia Senna. The young Monégasque can scarcely believe it. A moment ago, he’d been bored out of his mind, but now he’s stood barely even ten metres away from Gabriel Borges and Ayrton Senna’s beloved younger sister.

“Papa!” Arthur says, reaching over to tug on his father’s arm, who is currently gazing in the opposite direction. Hervé looks down at his son with a confused smile, "Regardez là-bas ! Regarde!" Look over there! Look! he hisses under his breath in a strange sort of half-whisper, half-shout. Both Hervé and his wife glance towards where the young boy is jabbing his finger and jumping up and down excitedly.

“C’est Gabriel Borges!”

The couple glance between each other in surprise. Sure enough, the Brazilian legend is stood right where Arthur is pointing, still smiling down at the little girl on his arm. She’s chattering rapidly, stars in her eyes as she practically bounces up and down in excitement.

Hervé grins. He knew Gabriel Borges’ young daughter was competing today, but he never really expected him to make an appearance – his wife and son maybe, but not him. Honestly, it’s a wonder he hasn’t been mobbed yet. The name Borges in the Formula 1 world is almost as big as Schumacher or Senna; and considering he’s also basically a Senna by marriage, he’s got double the importance. Hervé figures it’s only because he’s with his family that he’s being left alone. The second they leave, it’ll be carnage.

“Que fait-il ici?” What’s he doing here? Arthur hisses again when neither of his parents reply. Hervé chuckles at his son, who is suddenly anxious and all over the place, glancing between them and Gabriel as if he’s scared his idol might disappear the second he turns away, but also terrified to get any closer.

"Sa fille participe à la compétition.” His daughter is competing. Hervé explains. Arthur frowns, turning back to stare at Gabriel with furrowed eyebrows.

"Je ne savais pas qu'il avait une fille." I didn’t know he had a daughter. He says aloud, but it’s mostly to himself. Hervé and Pascale glance between themselves again, sharing smiles.

"C'est une famille très privée, 'Thur." They’re a very private family, ‘Thur. His mother explains this time in a gentle voice. It’s true that the Senna Borges’ keep themselves to themselves. After Gabriel’s retirement in 2006, they’ve all but fallen off the radar. His kids, Noêmia and Luiz, who used to accompany him to almost every race possible were suddenly removed from the public eye – no doubt, for their own good, knowing the pressure that can be put upon the children of legends such as Gabriel. Yet now, with Noêmia rising rapidly through the karting ranks, it seems the family are making their way back into the spotlight a little.

"Je ne peux donc pas lui demander une photo?" So I can’t ask him for a picture? Arthur asks quietly, trying to mask his disappointment. He may be young, but he’s noticed that no one else in the paddock is approaching Gabriel, even if almost every single pair of eyes there is on him. He must not want to be disturbed while he’s with his family. Hervé and Pascale share another look, before the latter crouches down a little to press a kiss to her son’s forehead.

"Peut-être après la course, d'accord? Je suis sûr qu'il aimerait rencontrer un jeune fan comme toi." Maybe after the race, ok? I’m sure he’d love to meet a young fan like you. She says softly. That seems to do the trick, and before long, Arthur is all smiles once more, bouncing around between his parents with eyes so bright they could have held entire constellations. He’s so excited by the prospect of meeting his idol that he doesn’t even notice him walking away, the young girl in a race suit gripping onto his hand tightly. Hervé can’t help but laugh.

Across the other end of the paddock, thirteen-year-old Charles Leclerc is walking out of his garage after a few last minute inspections on his kart, ready to search for his family again. He has a good feeling about this race – it’s like everything is falling into place for him. He feels more confident than ever, that this is the year he will win the Kart World Cup.

He can picture it so vividly in his mind – crossing the finish line victorious, watching the black and white of the chequered flag fly high in the air. He’d be able to hear the other karts behind him in the distance. None of them even get close to him. He’ll take the cup as the undisputed champion, and lift it above his head on the podium, watching his family cheer him on below. Charles wants to win it just to see their smiles. They’re what makes him happiest, with every race win, and even every failure: his family are there with him every step of the way. Through hell or high water, he knows they’ll always be by his side.

Charles is so lost in his daydream that he doesn’t notice the small figure striding purposefully towards him. Seemingly, she doesn’t notice him either – she’s too engrossed in her conversation with her father to pay any mind to her surroundings. It happens so quickly Charles doesn’t even have time to look up at the person he collides with before his chest runs into her forehead. All he hears is a gasp and a thud as she’s sent flying backwards into her father’s waiting arms. He stumbles back in shock, almost tripping over his own feet, apologies already flying out of his mouth at record speed – and perhaps in jumbled languages. He’s not entirely sure.

“Hey! Watch where you’re going!” an angry yet childish voice breaks him out of his dazed stupor. Charles’ eyebrows furrow as he looks down at the owner of the voice. It’s a young girl, perhaps two or three years younger than him, from the looks of it, with quite possibly the fiercest scowl he’s ever seen on a person. She’s dressed in a green racing suit, with her balaclava clutched tightly in her hand. His furrowed eyebrows lift a little in surprise. He didn’t know there would be a girl competing with him.

Charles is about to open his mouth to apologise again, when he notices the helmet hovering over her left shoulder – or rather, being held, by someone much taller. It’s green, just like her race suit, with yellow highlights and, he realises with a jolt, the number 27. Then his eyes are drawn back to her suit. There’s a patch sewn on just below her ribs, where her name is written. Senna, it says, in bold white writing. It can’t be, Charles thinks.

Slowly, he lifts his eyes up, past the girl’s still scowling face, to the person who is holding her helmet, gazing at him with an apologetic smile. He feels all the breath leave his body momentarily, like its been forced out by a sucker-punch to the gut. Standing in front of him, still smiling, is one of his Formula 1 idols; a man who he’d grown up watching on the TV, who was half the reason why Charles got into racing in the first place. Gabriel Borges.

“Sorry about that, son.” He says brightly, as if they’re normal people who have bumped into each other in the street – not a legend and possibly his biggest fan, “Minha estrela, you forget your manners.” My star. He scolds the young girl gently, still stood between his arms and still scowling fiercely at Charles. Her expression shifts when she looks up at Gabriel – who Charles assumes is her father, considering how similar they look – and softens into something almost imperceptible. Adoration. When she turns to look back at the young Monégasque, her scowl is completely gone.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have snapped at you.” she says sweetly, a small smile passing across her face. Charles thinks she should, by any right, have got whiplash from how quickly her attitude towards him changes. He’s still in a state of shock, and the breath hasn’t quite returned to his body, so all he can do is nod in reply.

The young girl looks up at her father questioningly. Gabriel shoots her an encouraging look. So next, she steps forwards, and sticks her arm out towards him, eyebrows arched expectantly.

“I’m Noêmia – uh, Senna Borges. But you can call me Noa,” she introduces herself. Charles stares down stupidly at her outstretched hand. The words Senna Borges run on a loop in his mind. Two of the greatest names in Formula 1 history, and this girl – Noa – carries both of them. And he’s supposed to be racing against her in just over an hour! How is he supposed to compete with that?

Luckily, Charles comes back to his senses before his silence can be perceived as rude. He takes Noa’s hand in his own, and shakes it gently, ignoring the anxious thoughts in the back of his mind to not do anything stupid – what if he squeezes her hand too hard and breaks one of her fingers? What a first impression injuring the daughter of his childhood idol would make. Charles drops Noa’s hand as soon as he’s shaken it, like it’s made out of hot coals. He winces at the strange look she shoots him.

“I’m – uh – Charles.” he introduces himself with a stiff nod. His eyes flicker upwards to where Gabriel is also watching him, an amused grin playing on his lips. He gulps, looking away quickly, “Charles L-Leclerc.”

“Nice to meet you, Charles.” Noa chirps brightly, “Are you French?” she enquires, tilting her head to the side curiously. He can’t shake the feeling that the way she’s looking at him, it’s as if she can see right through him. Like he’s her test subject, and she’s the investigator.

“Uh – no, Monégasque.” he croaks. Noa’s eyebrows furrow.

“Oh. As in Monaco?” she asks again. He nods, “Is that not in France?”

Charles mouth opens and closes, but no sound comes out. He really doesn’t know how to answer that – not without accidentally offending Noa, which, of course, would be a disaster with her father standing right there. Involuntarily, his gaze drifts towards the former driver, who, once again, shoots him a sympathetic smile.

“No, anjinho, it’s a different country.” Little angel. Gabriel tells his daughter softly, “You’ve been there before, remember?”

“Oh, right!” Noa giggles to herself, grinning up at her father in a way that makes him light up and ruffle her hair playfully. Then she turns to Charles again, her grin now a little more sheepish, “Sorry.”

“I-It’s ok.” he stammers. Somehow, he manages to muster a small smile in return, though where he gets the courage from, he’s not sure. It only seems to encourage Noa more, however, and soon enough she’s talking again. Charles catches Gabriel shaking his head fondly, as if he’s despairing with his chatty daughter, but can’t bring himself to tell her to stop.

“Are you racing today?” she asks him. He nods once, opening his mouth to add something in reply, but before he has the chance she’s talking again, “Cool! Me too! Are you fast?”

Charles’ mind stutters, trying to catch up with the breakneck speed at which this strange girl talks, “Uh – I mean, I like to think so?” he says. It sounds more like a question. He doesn’t want to appear too arrogant, not in front of Gabriel Borges, and especially not if he ends up bombing out of this race. Then he’ll seem like a complete idiot.

“Great!” Noa beams, “Then I’ll see you at the front!”

Charles’ eyebrows raise, but for some reason, he can’t help but smile a little at her confidence and enthusiasm. He can’t sense any arrogance behind her words – well, she is only young, but being the daughter of such a legendary driver can be a massive ego boost, even for a kid – and he gets the sense that she’s merely excited at the prospect of some strong competition. It’s something Charles really understands. Though he is, admittedly, a little terrified to be going up against Gabriel Borges’ daughter, he’s looking forward to the challenge he’s sure she’ll pose to him. It ought to be a good race, he thinks.

“Uh – yeah, sure.” He smiles, cautiously at first, but when Noa’s face lights up, it breaks into a fully-fledged grin. He doesn’t notice Gabriel watching them this time, too focussed instead on the young girl and the way she seems to light everything up around her when she smiles. The man smirks to himself. He makes a mental note to look for this boy’s family after the race. Noa could use a few more friends around the paddock, and it seems to him that these two are hitting it off.

Eventually, Gabriel has to cut short their conversation, conscious that if he and his daughter don’t get back to her garage soon, they might not have time to complete their usual warm-up routine and inspect her kart. Noa looks up at him, frowning disappointedly when he tells her in quiet Portuguese, that it’s time to go.

"But I want to talk to Charles.” She says quietly, the corners of her mouth turning down into a pout. Gabriel shakes his head when she looks up at him with those wide, puppy eyes – the one his wife has told him again and again she only uses on him, because she knows he’s too soft to say no to her when she does. Well, Gabriel decides he won’t fall for it this time. As much as he’s happy Noa has made a friend, right now, the race is more important.

“You’ll see him again later.” He assures her, ruffling her hair playfully. She pushes his hand away, turning back to look at Charles again with a grin. Gabriel watches the young boy’s eyes fix on her, shining brightly, as a tiny, shy smile stretches across his lips. He moves Noa forwards gently by the shoulder, directing her towards her garage. As they pass each other, she shoots Charles a small wave, which he returns.

“See you!” the young girl calls, “And good luck with the race!”

She’s too far gone when he finally finds the words for a half-decent response. He sighs, his head spinning. It’s only when both figures disappear from sight completely that he remembers – he didn’t even ask Gabriel for a picture.

Arthur is still bouncing when his older brother returns. Pascale and Hervé notice his quiet demeanour straight away, and his ashen face. Charles looks almost like he’s seen a ghost. They’d be worried if it weren’t for the faint, half-smile that rests on his lips as he looks down at the ground with glassy eyes. His parents share a look. Hervé shrugs.

Charles looks up from the ground. He’s still dazed, and still in a partial state of shock, but it’s beginning to hit him now, and he can’t help but grin. It only confuses his parents even more. Arthur is paying attention now, gazing up at his older brother with his head tilted to the side in confusion.

"Je viens de rencontrer Gabriel Borges et sa fille." I just met Gabriel Borges and his daughter. He blurts out. The reaction is immediate – Hervé and Pascale turn to look at their youngest son, who for a moment, is dumbfounded. Then, Arthur lets out a strangled shriek, so loud and so sudden that it makes Charles jump, and launches himself at his brother, mouth moving at a hundred miles an hour.

"Quoi? Vous plaisantez? Comment était-il ? Il était gentil? Tu as pris une photo avec lui?" What? Are you joking? Was he nice? Did you get a picture with him? He rushes out, all in one breath. Charles’ head begins to spin again, as he tries to pick out one thing to answer first amongst Arthur’s onslaught of questions.

“Non, j'ai oublié de lui demander une photo." No, I forgot to ask him for a picture. He says sadly.

"Quel idiot!" What an idiot! Arthur hisses, shaking his head at his older brother in disappointment.

"Arthur! Ne traite pas ton frère d'idiot!" Arthur! Don’t call your brother an idiot! Pascale scolds, glaring down at her youngest son. He looks back up at her sheepishly.

Charles turns towards his father. Hervé shoots him a grin, reaching out to ruffle his hair proudly.

"Elle s'appelle Noa." She’s called Noa. He says quietly, "Sa fille. On peut aller la voir après la course?" His daughter. Can we go see her after the race? He looks between his parents, eyes wide and hopeful. Hervé ruffles his hair again.

"Bien sûr. Tout ce que tu veux, champion." Of course. Whatever you want, champ.

13 January 2021                                                                                                Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

NOA LISTENS TO the sounds of her family’s laughter from the back garden of her parents’ beach front mansion. She dips her feet into the pool, lit up in the evening darkness with a soft blue glow. A glass of wine is nursed in one hand, and her chin is placed tiredly on the other. It’s quiet and distant – a welcome break from the energy of her aunts, uncles and cousins. Though she loves them to pieces, they can be very full on; especially on a day like today, when she has so much to think about.

Her twenty-first birthday is supposed to be one of the happiest of her life – and Noa is happy, but it feels like there’s something missing. Every year since 2018 has felt that way. Her family really are wonderful about it, always trying their best to take her mind off everything. Like today, Noa had been expecting nothing more than a quiet celebration with parents and Luiz: but they truly went above and beyond. She barely had any time to dress up before her cousins, aunts and uncles arrived, from all across Brazil. It’s a wonder they all managed to keep the surprise a secret, because knowing them (especially her uncle Thales’ kids) they had notoriously big mouths.

With the entire family gathered ready for a party, of course her father had one final surprise to truly top it all off. A brand new, scarlet red Ferrari SF90 Stradale, with her race number, 27, engraved on the side in gold. She had to fight off the urge to cry when she saw it parked outside the garage, gleaming in the sunlight like a ruby. Noa gave her father the biggest hug of all, and naturally, the next thing she did was take the car for a spin. Her Aston Martin was wonderful, but it really couldn’t compare to a Ferrari like this, one which she had only ever dreamed of owning. She felt a little guilty that she hadn’t paid for it herself, though Gabriel always did like spoiling her – so she quickly pushed the feeling aside. It was as he said to her later: seeing her smile was more than enough of a reward for him.

In short, Noa has the best dad in the world.

But despite all the lavish gifts and the time spent with her family, she still can’t shake the feeling that something isn’t quite right. There’s a hole inside her heart, left behind after that night over two years ago now, and no amount of spoiling can ever hope to fill it.

Noa remembers, when Charles had just turned eighteen, and she fifteen, they made a pact. It was after she’d been unable to travel to see him on his birthday, because of their separate races on opposite ends of the globe. It was a few weeks later that they finally saw each other again, and Noa insisted on throwing her own party for Charles. Late into the night, lying side by side under the stars, they’d promised not to miss any more major milestones in each other’s lives; no matter what obstacles stood in their way. Their twenty-first birthdays were the most important of them all, and on that night, they planned out exactly what they were going to do. Noa would be in Monaco for his with his family. She’d be eighteen by then, so they could go out drinking and dancing until the night faded with the rising sun. Charles would travel to Brazil for hers, of course – her parents wouldn’t have had it any other way, after all. He’d be part of the family for the night, until everything became too hectic, and then they’d run away, hand in hand, down the street to the beach.

Where is he now? Noa wonders. It’s been almost six years since they made that pact, but the memory of it is still fresh, and the wound his absence has created hurts like nothing she’s ever felt before. They’ve broken their promise twice over – Charles’ twenty-first being spent in Monaco, whilst Noa did everything she could to avoid him after their argument. Now she’s here, surrounded by the people who love her the most, but at the same time, utterly alone; and he’s somewhere halfway across the other side of the world, probably not even sparing a single thought to their promise.

She’s been trying so hard not to think about him lately, yet, with the shadow of the Chanel contract looming over her head, Noa has no way to avoid the memories. She knows she’ll have to face him again at some point, probably sooner rather than later if she wants this deal to go ahead smoothly.

“Princesa? O que você está fazendo aqui fora?" Princess? What are you doing out here? A voice sounds from behind her, and she turns around to face her father with a weak smile. Noa doesn’t have to say anything. Gabriel can tell exactly what’s wrong from nothing more than the look in her eye. He knew, of course, that this day would be difficult for her. In a way, it’s difficult for all of them. Charles had been like a son to Gabriel and Flávia, and a big brother to Luiz. But now he’s long gone. His and Noa’s friendship is nothing but ash, the remains of something they both unknowingly helped to burn down. They feel Charles’ absence too. Though for Noa, he knows it’s something much deeper – even if she herself hasn’t realised it.

"Só estou pensando." Just thinking. She says, her smile only weakening even further. Gabriel sighs. The noise coming from inside seems to fade out; perhaps someone has closed a door, or they’ve moved out of the living room. Slowly, he walks over to the side of the pool where she’s sat, careful not to get his Louboutin leather derbies anywhere near the lapping water.

"Sobre Charles?" About Charles? He prompts, raising an eyebrow. Noa sighs, turning to shoot him a pained look. Gabriel smiles in spite of himself. He sees more and more of his younger self in his daughter with each passing day, but this is one of the things he wishes she hadn’t inherited from him. Noa likes to think that she needs to be completely independent, to be able to control her emotions and show a calm, put-together demeanour to the rest of the world. Gabriel used to be the exact same – until he met Flávia, of course, and then he finally had someone to confide in. Not so long, Charles had been to Noa what his wife is to him: a confidant, a shoulder to cry on. Without him there, she bottles everything up, trying to act as if nothing is wrong, when in fact, that is far from the truth.

"You’re allowed to miss him, you know.” Gabriel reminds her gently; and of course she knows, but she can’t bring herself to fully accept it. Two years have passed after all. By any right, Noa feels she should be over it; she should be moving on, cherishing their friendship for what it used to be, but laying it to rest. Somehow, she just can’t bring herself to.

“Mas não quero perdê-lo." But I don’t want to miss him. She sighs frustratedly, "He hurt me. He betrayed me. I should hate him for it, not miss him.”

Noa’s fists clench involuntarily at the memory of that night, the last time she ever spoke to him. She still isn’t over some of the things he said to her. Even now, they appear in her dreams, haunting her. How could she ever be over it? But it was sadness and longing she felt before, something like mourning for her former best friend. Now it’s the familiar, scorching flame of anger. Somehow, that feels better. At least then she doesn’t have to deal with the guilt of needing someone she should have long since forgotten.  

"I don’t think you could ever hate him, Noa.” Gabriel says, almost in a whisper, but his tone is knowing. He’s more serious now, eyebrows pulled together in the middle of his forehead, forming a worried frown.

She knows her father’s words are nothing but the truth. She has never, and will never hate Charles, no matter the distance between them and no matter the hurtful words he may have said to her when she was at her most vulnerable. Noa simply can’t, even though she so desperately wants to. He still means far too much to her.

“Sim.” Yeah. She mutters. It grows darker outside, the sun finally fading completely from the sky, as the moon takes its place. Silver beams illuminate everything around her in a pale, ghostly glow. She dips her hand into the water, watching the way it ripples, all the way to the other side, carrying the light with it. In turn, Gabriel watches her. Even if she’s an adult now, he will always see Noa as his little girl, who used to cling onto his arm on race days like it was her life support. She may not need him now as much as she used to, but he’ll be damned if he doesn’t look out for her – especially when he can see how much she’s bottling up inside, and the rapidly crumbling façade she uses to trick the world into believing she’s fine: more than fine. It’s not healthy, and it’s bound to come out in some ugly ways if she can’t learn to cope with it.

"Você já falou com ele?" Have you spoken to him yet? Gabriel asks, his voice cutting through the silence like a knife. Noa chuckles sardonically.

"Não." No. Her smile is wry and bitter as she shakes her head, "He must have been told by now.”

Gabriel hums in agreement. He falls silent for a moment, contemplating the best way to tell her what she needs to hear without her flying off the handle at him – as often seems to be the case when Charles is involved.

“Noa…” he begins, trailing off as he waits a moment for her to look at him, “You really need to think about going to see him.” he says with a faint grimace. Noa’s eyebrows immediately knit together into a scowl, but he’s speaking again before she has the chance to interrupt, “I’m not saying you should forgive him, or anything like that. But you two need to at least settle your differences on the surface; talk things through. Or it’s going to be a difficult season for the both of you.”

That’s the annoying thing about having Gabriel Borges as a father – he’s almost always right, and Noa knows that full well. She’s been battling with the idea of seeing Charles again for almost a month, an idea that, quite honestly, makes her feel sick to her stomach; then along Gabriel comes, voicing the words she’s been trying to push to the back of her mind ever since she found out about the Chanel contract. Noa can’t ignore the fact that he’s right. Even if it’s painful, she needs to talk to Charles.

"Eu sei, papai." I know, dad. She replies, just about managing to muster a small, reassuring smile. "Estou trabalhando nisso." I’m working on it.

Gabriel looks to his daughter proudly, automatically reaching over to ruffle her hair. In her youth, she’d never attempted to push him away; yet even if she does now, he knows the gesture is just as comforting as it always used to be. It’s grounding – a reminder that he’ll always be there for her.

Happy in the knowledge that he’s managed to get through to her, Gabriel struggles slowly to his feet. Noa makes no move to follow him, but he’s ok with that. He understands that she might need some time to herself to think everything over, and he’s more than happy to give her that, as long as at the end of the day, she makes the decision that is right for her.

“Promise me you’ll talk to him.” Gabriel says finally, just before he begins to walk away. It’s more for confirmation than anything else, just to hear the words from her own mouth. He knows if she says them now, she’ll mean it. Noa has never once broken a promise she’s made him, and though this is something far more consequential than usual, somehow Gabriel knows this isn’t about to be the first time.

It’s dark, but he’s sure he sees the ghost of a smile – a true, genuine one – pass across Noa’s lips.

“I promise.”

This time, she fully intends to keep it.

liked by landonorris, neymarjr and 745,832 others

noasenna not to contradict mother (@/taylorswift I LOVE YOU) but turning 21 IS pretty fun 💗

mãe e pai - obrigada pela melhor festa surpresa de todos os tempos! eu amo vocês <3 / thank you for the best surprise party ever! i love you guys <3

outro agradecimento especial a @/gabrielborgesoficial o melhor pai do mundo por me surpreender com o carro dos meus sonhos! vou cuidar bem dele 🫡

another special thank you to the best dad in the world for surprising me with the car of my dreams! i’ll take good care of it 🫡

view all comments…

lewishamilton Feliz aniversário, Noa!

noasenna obrigada, lew! 💕

brunamarquezine Espero que você tenha tido um ótimo dia, querida xx / Hope you had a great day, lovely xx

noasenna obrigada, bru! sinto sua falta 🥹 / i miss you

gabrielborgesoficial Somente o melhor para minha princesinha ❤️ / Only the best for my little princess

noasenna aww pai 🥺 eu amo você 🫶 / i love you

gabrielborgesoficial Eu também amo você xx / I love you too xx

username STOP they’re adorable 😭

pierregasly Happy birthday!

*noasenna liked this comment

username omg pierre’s here! can we get charles next??

luizsenna feliz aniversário, feioso 🙄 / happy birthday, ugly

noasenna obrigada, babaca 😚 / thanks, asshole

username HAHAHA I LOVE THEM

gabrielborgesoficial Feliz aniversário para nossa linda garota 😘 - mãe e pai / Happy birthday to our beautiful girl - mom and dad

noasenna vocês são os melhores 💓 / you guys are the best

username my favourite f1 family 🥹

izav_borges legal nos estados unidos? vá rasgá-looo 🍾🍾 / legal in america? go tear it uppp

noasenna sim, senhora 🫡 / yes ma’am

eloisaalves feliz aniversário 💖

noasenna obrigada, lísa! 🥰

raffaella_diangelo happy birthdayy ❤️ see you soon! x

noasenna thank you, raffa! i knew you’d miss me 😏

raffaella_diangelo don’t push it

username you’re telling me gabriel bought her a custom ferrari sf90 stradale as a surprise as if it doesn’t cost well over £500,000 😭

username fr…how can i trick them into adopting me?

username every year i pray for a charles interaction and every year i’m disappointed ☹️

taglist: @harrysdimple05 @ricciardosheart @azxulaa @dakotali @hopingforpeace @flowerchild-96 @destourtereaux @wordsthatwaterflowersinyoursoul @luckyladycreator2 @roseamongthorns13

if you’d like to be added to the taglist, just leave a comment on this post!

[brakingpoint]

if any of you are fans of @lightningmickqueen's brilliant secret pop star!charles fic all this happened, more or less you might remember his breakout single "movie", a ballad about unrequited love and the inherent romance of night race podiums. anyway i wrote and recorded a little demo of it lol. lyrics under the cut

(and if you're not familiar with rach's fic first of all read it now, or this also stands alone as a little lestappen fan song)

btw rach told me to tell you she will be updating the new fic soon<3

LYRICS

breathe deep ease the pounding of my heart inside of me focus on the sight of you so near that We could almost touch your smilE wide childlike wonder, never scared and never tired your hAnd near mine as we look out across the night the crowd's phone lights like fiReflies

your blue Eyes champagne on a dark night fireworks lighting up the sky you and i i start to think we'll never die and you, you're all light you're a movie

we go round and round in circles like when we were kids scared of getting closer to admitting what this feeling is and we crash waves against a shoreline every time we meet if i got you closer would you be so sweet to share just a moment of Peace?

your blue eyes champagne on a dark night fiReworks lighting up the sky you and i i start to think we'll never diE and you, you're all light you're a movie

and if i let myself imagine how we'D be without the spotlights i can lose myself forEver in this fantasy and for a Second i forget that it's not meant to be i only see

your blue eyes the harbour baThed in starlight we fade to black in perfect quiet you and I it's fuNny how we'll nevEr Die and we'll be alright

[alexiavettel]

chapter six

"The world was whole then, the sun and the moon together as one"

pairing: charles leclerc x fem!stroll¡reader

word count: 2.3k+

warnings: explicit language, reader manipulating her father to create chaos basically, Seb retirement, Lawrence is almost a good dad (i love him, i hate to make him a bit toxic), reader and charles being sassy and quite aggressive towards each other, Leclerc being obnoxiously sexist.

disclaimer: any photo used is not supposed to represent the reader, are all Pinterest pics that match the context

<<< previous part

April 10th, 2022

Melbourne, Australia- post-race

“We're gonna reveal in the next race” Charles notified you right after entering your trailer “Binotto wanted to be in Monza but it’s too far. So.. I was thinking that we could walk in on thursday holding hands” he starts planning.

“We didn’t agree with soft launching?”

“For god’s sake, Stroll! We’ve been soft launching for months! I had never gone out so much even with my real girlfriends, there are more pics of us in gossips accounts than on our own phones, we do more press together lately than when we were in the same team. Everyone figured that we are together already” he seats down on your couch.

“But why Imola? We could wait a bit, don’t we?”

“They decided already. Better be soon in the season, no?” 

“I will find a way to not let this be a main thing this weekend…” you murmur to yourself but Leclerc managed to hear it.

“What are you planning, Satan?” The man gets up and comes closer, eyeing you suspiciously.

“I don’t wanna be in the spotlight… with you” you whisper.

“Gotta be clearer, sweetheart” he looks at you quirking his brow.

“You’ll see it!” You turn to him and smile over sweetly.

“I don’t like the way you say this-”

“Do you want all the questions this weekend to be about our relationship? Yeah, I don’t think so. My team had something planned for a while so I think we could announce it now and it’ll take a bit of the spotlight from me- us”

“Are you sure?”

“It’s a bit of a risky move, but I’m gonna figure it out”

•

“Dad, please! I would never ask you for something like this if it really wasn’t important!” A lie, you would. You have done it multiple times already.

“Do you know how many problems this may create?” He grew uncomfortable in his seat. Having a serious conversation like this one, wasn’t your first option but the anxiety won.

“Daddy… An upgrade was already planned for Imola, we gonna announce it this thursday anyway. So thinking in a business way, it’ll attract to us a lot of attention. Since we’re having a good development this season, it will create an expectation in everyone that we are turning into a brand new team and one of the main ones. Announcing Alonso will create so much speculation and basically initiate the silly season”

“Kitten, there will be so many questions,” he sighed tiredly “did you stop to think how risky that is? To you, specifically. No one's gonna think Vettel is retiring, they will question your talent and ability, sweetie. I think I can do what you ask me but are you ready for all that?”

“Yes, I am. I’m not a kid anymore, you know I can take a bit of shit from the media with my head high. I’ve done it already, I can do it again. Thank you, daddy!” You hug him dearly. Really happy that the plan worked out and that he trusted you enough for that, but quite worried about the consequences. 

“Don’t worry, kitten. But I’ll need your help to talk with Vettel, see if he’s okay with all this. I’m gonna take care of the rest, let’s see if Alonso allows it. But I’m gonna make it happen, anything for you baby girl. Just… Don’t disappoint me, okay?”

“Never, father. But if Seb isn’t okay with it you don’t need to do it, deal?”

“You are the most perfect teammate, sweetheart” he shuffles your hair affectionately.

•

April 20th, 2022

Silverstone, United Kingdom - Aston Martin Headquarters

You told Seb everything yesterday, from the point of taking the attention away from you and Leclerc to open opportunities to other teams' proposals, as your official (and undisclosed information) contract ends this year.

Your dad was happy about Vettel’s acceptance and already set everything up for today’s breaking news. So let the silly season begin! While on Sim, Sebastian gave you a lesson about how risky that could be and if the media starts to go too harsh on you, you can call him up anytime. You have been ignoring Leclerc for the past few days since he hasn’t stopped asking what you're going to do and you can’t wait to see his reaction. Liv told you the news release time, not before calling you crazy and “Can’t you fucking accept that you and Charles are a couple?”...

Your mobile started ringing like crazy but you just put it on the ‘do not disturb’ mode and follow with your day. It actually made you curious sometimes throughout the day but you tried to concentrate on training, and gossiping with Seb helped a lot.

“So… People enjoyed the news?” Vettel asked when we were about to get out.

“I don’t know, didn’t touch my phone since it came out” you admitted picking up your stuff.

“You’re not curious?”  He side-eyed you smirking.

“Yes… But we already know what they’re talking about either way”

“Get your phone, if you're not curious I am!” You did what he said and got shocked by how many missed calls, hundreds of messages and social media notifications.

“God’s sake!...” You showed your phone to him and he started laughing at your reaction “Let’s search the news”

“SILLY SEASON BEGAN: Fernando Alonso joins Aston Martin for 2023. Who will leave?”

“Is Y/n Stroll remaining in Formula One?”

“Vettel OR Stroll? Who will leave Aston Martin?”

“Will Lawrence Stroll be brave enough to fire his own daughter?”

“Is it possible that Sebastian Vettel is going to retire?”

“Is Sebastian Vettel going back to Ferrari?”

“Who will replace Fernando Alonso in Alpine?”

“Will the only female driver on the grid be fired?”

“Did you see Leclerc’s message?” Sebastian asked after you two read all the news.

“He’s probably just freaking out. Did you already explain to him the Ferrari beef?” His reaction said enough “Why not?”

“Do you really think it will help his relationship with Mattia? I can tell him after I retire, I heard Binotto will retire depending on this year’s performance…”

“Really? That could explain why he had gone so far for Leclerc’s reputation. Shit, he’s fucked!” You laughed out loud while Seb attempted to scold you but failed and started giggling with you.

•

April 21st, 2022

Imola, Italy - Media day

Y/n Stroll POV:

“So the ghost comes to pay me a visit?” He was suited in his classic Ferrari polo when he opened his hotel room’s door. 

“Shut up, Leclerc” I enter the room and sit on his bed.

“You ghosted me for more than a week and I can’t be mad?!” He closed the door harshly.

“Stop being dramatic…” I shuffle around his messy bag of clothes.

“I’m not being dramatic!” He’s probably so mad that he doesn’t even care that I’m going through his stuff.

“Why do you care that much?” I found less embarrassing trousers, a white tailored one “Missed your pretty girlfriend?” I look up at him teasingly and he just avoids me looking at the trousers.

“Fuck you. What’s that?”

“I’m not being seen with you wearing those horrendous pants! Change to this white one and then we can go” With a sweet smile I shove him into the bathroom. 

As he took time to change I used the opportunity to read all the messages he sent to me in the meantime. 150 messages all about him going crazy like “WTF ARE YOU DOING?” “ARE YOU GETTING FIRED?”, it made me giggle.

He didn't say anything while walking out of the bathroom, just gathered his things in silence and didn’t wait for me to get out of the room.

“Are you really that mad at me?” He was waiting at the lift door. “Silence treatment now?” He remains silent.

The elevator arrives and we enter with quietude filling the air. If we stay in this situation the remaining 14 floors will be unbearable.

“I am not getting fired”.

Fourteenth floor

“I didn’t tell before ‘cause I didn’t know if my father would allow”.

Thirteenth floor

“You’re not gonna talk to me? Really? Stop fucking ignoring me!”

“Are you really that embarrassed of me?”

Twelfth floor

“Embarrassed? Only of your sense of style, Leclerc”

“It’s a lie”

“No, it’s not! Why would I be so embarrassed of you?” 

“You’re gaslighting me!”

“I am not! Why can’t fucking answer me properly?!”

“Look how much chaos you created just to not hold my fucking hand!” He scratched his neck after messing up his hair nervously.

“That’s not the problem!” I pick up his hand, interlacing our fingers “See!”

“Then why did you do all this? You don’t want this fake shit, I know it really well. I got you! But was this all necessary?!” He shook my hand away and widened his eyes.

“I don’t want the spotlight in my face!”

“You don’t shy away! Like never!”

“Can’t you put yourself in my place one fucking time?! You and the others can change girlfriends like a pair of shoes and will be treated normally!”

“And?”

“Stop playing dumb! Having a boyfriend will be the main point of my weekend to them. Especially if it is with a driver! They gonna question my ability, if I’m able to discern my personal and professional life, that I’m a whore who couldn’t keep it in the pants with a coworker!”

“They’ll do the same with me, don’t play the victim” He messes his hair madly.

“You’re a man! You’ll be the best one ‘cause you got a hot girl at work, you’ll be the player, an ‘alpha’. Now aside from ‘getting my seat from daddy’s money’ my good performance will be explained it’s because I’m fucking you or some bullshit like that!”

“Okay, I understand but! Why ignore me like that?! I can help and will! Why don’t you talk to me?”

“We are not friends! Why would you help if not for your own image? Stop pretending you care!”

“You are so self-absorbed!” Shit.

“Leclerc!” Shit shit shit shit shit.

“Don’t ‘Leclerc’ me! You screamed at me so can I!” 

“Leclerc! Listen-”

“No! You listen!-”

“Charles, shut up! Look!” I show the floor pointers stuck between the twelfth and eleventh floors. And right at that moment, the lights go off just resting the emergency one.

“Oh fine, great. Amazing really! Exactly just what I needed!” He shouts pressing the emergency button repeatedly “No one sees this fucking camera?!” He asks loudly, waving his arms like crazy to the small thing pinned on the corner.

“Are you fucking blind?” I nervously point to the only light on us.

“I’m gonna kill myself-” He desperately leans against the wall.

“Do you have a stick up in your ass?” I come closer to him starting to feel my blood boiling more. Everything he said is piling over and getting me even worse.

“What did you just say?” He starts to look down at me.

“Do-you-have-a-stick-up-in-your-ass? Did I forget something?” If he can look down at me like I’m shit I can do as well.

“Why can’t you stop being a bitch for a second?! We’re literally trapped here!” He approaches me caging in the wall, he narrows his eyes with a newfound intensity. Not just anger but something indescribable. 

“Yeah, nightmare material. Not like we got to choose!”

“Nah, I don’t believe you…” he starts smirking.

“You’re the one who is a breath away from me, Leclerc” I tilt my head to look directly at his eyes.

“Fuck off!” He distances himself mad.

“I gladly would. And look, just because I love torturing you, doesn’t mean I like spending time with you” Teasing him is a bit better when we’re not trapped in a lift and I can get out after this point.

“You really aren’t making this any easier, are you?” The driver started trying to open the door "I can't open it!"

“It's protected against idiots” I giggle as his arms shake after only opening about 5 cm of the door just to be concrete. We are literally in between floors, great. I hope we don’t die.

“Listen here” He corners me at the end of the lift, putting his arms around my head caging me and holding my jaw to look at him “Dare me again and I’ll fucking break you off”

“Wow!” I say cynically “That cute little face you’re pulling didn’t scare me before and it definitely won’t now. Put it away” I grab his jaw, pushing his cheeks together. and slapping him away weakly. 

“You find my face cute, huh?” He scrunches his nose, pushing my hands away and smirking.

“I hate- Fuck!” The lights come back and as the lift starts to tremble we stumble over each other. If it wasn’t for his hand on my hips we both would’ve been on the ground right now.

“Don’t panic! We are getting you two out of there!” We heard a masculine voice through the small opening in the elevator’s door.

“So… What you were saying?” He didn’t move his hand away.

“I hate you so fucking much!” The teasing is gone. I’m just mad right now. I don’t know how or why he can make me thrilled so easily but I would do anything to change that.

“Oh really?” He puts his right hand on my cheek, smirking.

“I don’t know what you’re doing. But yes, Leclerc really.” I managed to stare back at him defiantly.

“Lying doesn’t suit you, sweetheart”

“But you know what does? You getting off of me, sweetheart” I don’t like the feeling of my cheeks burning so I slap him off and go close to the door, with my back turned to him. “I hope we don’t get too late to the press…” I think out loud after a bit of silence.

“Lucky enough we were early. Probably going to arrive just in time, chérie” He acts normally, just checking the time on his watch.

@laura-naruto-fan1998 @honeyric3 @tempo-rary-fix hope you enjoyed <3

my taglist!!

[cialovesklopp]

𝐒𝐇𝐄 𝐈𝐒 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊

𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒚 — where several articles question the absence of amara imani and where the singer has gone, after hiding because of all the bad news and scandals

masterlist

taglist: @lorarri @locedes @aechii @Ippi_d

SHE IS BACK! After a long hiatus from the public eye, lasting a year and more, the queen of pop & rnb is back and making headlines again. And we can all be sure, she’s got a lot to tell.

Via photo dump on her instagram account, the singer announced her highly anticipated return, sending shockwaves and creating chaos on platforms like Twitter, TikTok and Instagram. The singer also hinted at the arrival of new music, up roaring her entire devoted fan base.

She also announced the coming of two new songs — a collaborations with pop singer Ariana Grande as well as her own single.

Her sudden disappearance from the spotlight did not come unexpected after the whole cheating scandal with ex-boyfriend Evan Henderson. Humiliation and Defamation had pushed the 24 year old to leave the music business and take a very needed pause as it seems, reading from her instagram post.

The thought of Amara stepping back onto the stage has not only fans on the edge of their seats. Everyone who is someone in the music business is anticipating her return especially because of the big hole she left. And let’s not forget, that Imani did not contradict any statements her ex-boyfriend Evan Henderson had dropped about her. So the question is of course, whether she accepts those allegations made about her or whether this will turn into the next star he said - she said.

Last time Amara Imani dropped a single was over two years ago, so of course her whole fan base is awaiting her return with impatience. Whether those songs will be about her ex-boyfriend, stepping into the shoes of Taylor Swift and mentor Beyonce or about her own self-growth, only time will tell. So stay tuned as the music world braces for the return of Amara Imani.

𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌

amara.imani

liked by liyah.clark, arianagrande and 14.346.907 others

amara.imani in my head — out soon

the user turned her comments off on this post

arianagrande

liked by amara.imani, selenagomez and 5.819.092 others

arianagrande thank u, next 💋 official release soon @amara.imani

view all 39.405 comments

amara.imani 💋

arianator1 why am i kind of excited for this

imani_gossippage i feel the evan slander incoming

amara_imani_fan WE USED TO PRAY FOR TIMES LIKE THIS

amara_im123 mother is blessing us with three new songs

amaraimani_updates can’t wait to listen to this masterpiece

butera.stan the fact that ariana is willing to come out from her music pause just for amara

honeymoon_ari but also why does this song sound so passive agressive

amaraxgrande FR we’re def getting a boss bitch track

liyah.clark

liked by amara.imani, charles_leclerc and 2.046.837 others

liyah.clark visiting my bestie in parisss (and treating her to dinner because she’s about to slay and enter her revenge era) @amara.imani

view all 56.201 comments

charles_leclerc mon angé 😍

liyah_clark baby 🫶🏾

lordperceval16 ARIANA WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE

leclerc_lover I THINK THIS IS HIS NEW GIRLFRIEND

charles_updates guessing from his comment, i think the rumours are true

amara.imani why didn’t you post the other pictures

liyah.clark i didn’t look good in them

cl16stan are we really sure she is dating him? like she is way above his league

liked by charles_leclerc and 370 others

maxverstappen1 no way this is his new girlfriend? i don’t believe him

landonorris maybe he paid her @liyah.clark you can tell us how much he is paying you

liyah.clark OMG I KNOW YOU @maxverstappen you’re the one who looks like that ice age character and @landonorris you’re driving that Lego car

danielricciardo yep, she’s definitely dating him

graceywood where was my invite??

liyah.clark you didn’t pick up, you were too busy sleeping

carlossainz55 nice to finally meet the girl charles’ been talking my ear off the entire time

charles_leclerc thx for exposing me mate

liyah.clark aww nice to meet you too chili

lewishamilton nice to put a face to the name, wishing you and charles the best for your relationship

liyah.clark i think i just died, thank you sir 🥹

𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚.𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 3𝐡 𝐚𝐠𝐨

@k.mbappé reacted to your story

k.mbappé rehearsing my song, right?

amara.imani patience is a virtue kyky

k.mbappé the make-out sessions we have whenever i come home from training beg to differ

amara.imani je te jure, je vais te bloquer un jour — I swear, i’ll block you one day

amara.imani and don’t act as if you hate them <3

𝐓𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑

𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌

amara.imani

liked by donatellaversace, liyah.clark and 17.864.325 others

amara.imani project nr. 2 — happy to announce my new collaboration with @versace. i am very excited to be chosen to portray this beautiful line and am honored of being a part to its creation. it’s a dream come true for me to co-design my first collection next to @donatella_versace and the entire team. thank you so much for giving me this chance 🤎

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the comments on this post are limited

liyah.clark i’m so excited for this to drop

versace 🤎

selenagomez congratulations, this looks amazing

graceywood in love with this collection @amara.imani i’m so proud of you

donatella_versace this was all you sweetie, you are now officially a versace member. this collection is a creation of love, friendship and passion for fashion

amara_imaniupdates this is so gorgeous, like drop-dead gorgeous

amy_imani you showed them what you were capable, that even with all the people who dropped you, you’re still able to rise

cynthia_e most beautiful thing you ever designed sis, proud to call myself your sister everyday and watching you rise and rise higher

beyoncé congrats, you’re showing them who’s on top

dualipa welcome to the family gorgeous, i still remember my first collection 🤎

imani_forever amara is THE moment, like we’re all begging to be her

[hostess-of-horror]

❄️A Pristine Carol ❄️

A Mario + Rabbids AU Revisited...

In the Space Opera Network, during the most festive time of the year, the Phantom of the Bwahpera prepares for his annual Winter's Ball performance at Pristine Peaks. Much to the dismay of everyone, his ego is increased tenfold as he refuses to acknowledge his struggling employees. When the Phantom is greeted that night by his dead companion and three other spirits, he begins to realize the error of his ignorant ways.

A holiday ghost story... About a ghost being haunted by ghosts. How ironic!

Inspired by Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, this AU has both holiday cheer and all the spooks you'll ever need!

@randomrabbidramblings @bramble-scramble @minnesotamedic186 @deezeyrabbidy @pastelprince18 @murd3r-rabbids @mimizzin @mothstache @sneklover @salamifuposey @spaceiis0daz

The Cast:

The Phantom of the Bwahpera (Ebenezer Scrooge)

Bea (Belle, Scrooge's Lover)

Judas Morose (Jacob Marley)

Jedidiah McGruff (The Ghost of Christmas Past)

Z.I.N.G. (The Ghost of Christmas Present)

Mal "Fleshcarver" Steward (The Ghost of Christmas Future)

Leo (Bob Cratchet)

Little Lottie (Tiny Tim)

Dolly Mallard (Fred, Scrooge's Nephew - OC by @minnesotamedic186)

The Whole Story in a Nutshell:

The story begins with Phantom reminiscing about his best friend, Judas Morose, who died five years ago while preparing for the Winter's Ball at Pristine Peaks.

Leo, his assistant, asks if he could take a vacation on that day so that he could bring his wife and daughter to his performance, and Phantom does under the condition that his pay will be docked (permanently).

They then get a visit from the kind-hearted Dolly Mallard, who invites him over at her mansion to celebrate the winter festivities. Phantom declines, saying that his performance is far more important than some simple social gathering.

That night, Phantom comes home to get some beauty sleep until he is suddenly visited by Judas Morose, a wretched soul bounded and dangled by heavy chains, who tells him that he must change or else he'll be just like him.

Judas, before he returns to the afterlife, shows Phantom all of the celebrities who were just like him - self-centered and greedy.

Thus begins the haunting. As the clock strikes, Jedidiah McGruff, a country singer with a hankering for smoke and whiskey, appears. He takes Phantom to the past, revealing every moment that made the opera ghost who he is.

In the past, the Phantom was defeated by the hands of Mario and his crew of Heroes at his birthplace, Spooky Trails, and is met by Morose, who seizes the opportunity to make him a star.

Phantom does become a major star, popular for his operatic roasts, and becomes a big part of Morose's party inside a nightclub. Here is where he meets Bea and they fall in love. But their relationship soon became strife with heartbreak as Phantom obsesses over the spotlight, ending with him breaking up with her through text.

The clock then strikes twice, and Phantom encounters an electrifying rapper and DJ named Z.I.N.G., who shows him the present.

Leo arrives home to his wife, Lucille, and his daughter, Little Lottie, who is a huge fan of Phantom. The opera ghost realizes that she's autistic - a lonely girl with a big imagination and an even bigger heart. Lucille laments on how Phantom treats Leo, but Leo remains positive, for their daughter's sake.

Z.I.N.G. then takes Phantom to Dolly Mallard and her gathering of friends playing a guessing game, which turns out to be an excuse to make fun of Phantom. Z.I.N.G. then turns Phantom's attention to his backup dancers, Ignorance and Want, before leaving him.

And finally, when the clock strikes three, the final spirit, Mal "Fleshcarver" Steward of the metal band Rabbid Stew, appears from the darkness. She shows Phantom a vibrant and bustling world of fame and fortune, which was caused by the disappearance of a certain bad celebrity.

This celebrity was so horrible, so terrible, that everyone began praising his absence and goes as far as to sell off his items at an auction for extremely cheap prices. With Phantom not getting it, Fleshcarver then shows Lucille receiving a sudden call from the local school about Little Lottie.

Little Lottie, badly injured after another of her encounters with bullies, is in the nurse's office with her dad. When her mother arrives, she nonverbally communicates that she wants to disappear forever so that everyone can be happy.

Heartbroken by this little girl's predicament, and extremely scared of his future, Phantom begins to realize who the missing celebrity is. Fleshcarver then takes him to a decrepit mansion where he - that very celebrity - was crushed by a hanging chandelier while alone, wallowing in his failed career.

Phantom pleads for forgiveness and begs for another chance at redemption, vowing to put others before himself.

He then wakes up! He is alive, very, very much alive, and he is beyond ecstatic! The story ends with Phantom adding a great sum in everyone's paycheck, allowing Leo and his family to his performance for free, and arrives at Dolly Mallard's party, who was greeted with open arms.