Created this account with a sole purpose of writing a Max Verstappen fanfiction 🥰 English is not my first language, so I'm sorry for any mistakes <3 [You may also find me on wattpad and ao3, under the same nickname]
[Just Max Verstappen if anyone is wondering, lolz. I created this account especially for that <3]
One shots
-> A few degrees too hot (18+ MDNI) Girlfriend!Reader
summary: Because of a stupid argument you're deprived of his attention and start to realise how much you miss it – though you won't extend an olive branch, as you're sure he's wrong. It gets hard to stay mad, when you enter the bathroom and see him in a state that makes your heart beat faster and thighs clench involuntarily.
Momentum || Fanfiction
Max Verstappen x OC!fem!figureskater
~not much knowledge required, OC explains things to Max as he was never into figure skating, so you'll understand too <3
Description:
Russian figure skating is different from everywhere else, especially when you're training under Eteri Tutberidze and going to international competitions. Though if you manage to score some medals, you may sometimes find some joy outside of exhausting training.
Like for example: getting a lovely apartment, going on nice vacations after Worlds or being a part of shows off-season, like Fantasy on Ice.
Or you may also be able to do an amazing surprise to your dad, who is a big F1 fan – of course if one of your sponsors has their own team in Formula One and you manage to get a pass from them.
Well, Amaliya Svetlanova succeeded, and didn't even know how a surprise for her dad may influence her whole life.
amazing new chapter can't wait for the next one 😊❤️ in the future would there be an incident where Ama and Max meet Ama's mother ?? OR where Max tells Ama about what Jos would do to him thinking it's like what made him who he is and Ama's like "Baby, that's not normal."
Thanksss ❤️
100% Max will tell Ama about Jos and how he raised him. But after what he has already heard from Ama (about her growing up), his view on his upbringing is changing. So he's already having an evolution in that matter 🥹
About meeting her mom? Hard to say, as Ama isn't close with her and wants her parents to divorce (he brother wants that too). But I don't line it out, as she's her mother nonetheless, and when Max&Ama are together, it'd be nice to meet both of the parents of your partner. So it's very possible, but the circumstances are still to be set.
Max tried his luck, looking away and puffing out his cheek slightly—clearly hinting at the kind of acknowledgment he’d appreciate most. She played along. Not without rolling her eyes, of course, but she stood on tiptoe and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. No deeper thoughts at that moment—just immense happiness over the gift and finally seeing him again.
PLEASE, SOMEONE TELL ME THIS WAS FILMED OR PHOTOGRAPHED!
We will see 🤭 In the next chapter I'll dwell into the media aspect of that weekend
Max Verstappen x OC!fem!figureskater ~not much knowledge required, OC explains things to Max as he was never into figure skating, so you'll understand too <3
-> Chapter XX ''Little big things''
-> This fanfic's masterlist
Chapter XXI ''His world''
Amaliya knew she couldn't just leave without a word. Before she booked the hotel and started to think about what to pack, she needed to ask Brian if she would even go.
As now she wasn't doing much in training and won't be competing in the next season, she assumed it wouldn't be hard to get permission. But she never asked him for anything like that yet, and had some... not the best experiences from the past.
An additional thing was that she didn't know Brian well yet, just from what she already experienced and heard from Yuzuru – and he assured her Brian is gonna agree.
Well, she didn't feel like that when she stood in front of him after training.
She asked carefully, already bracing herself for possible refusal and thinking what to say then. She really wanted to go there, but wouldn't throw away everything, the fragile peace she managed to get here.
"Three days?" he repeated after her, in a softer tone than she prepared herself for.
"Yeah, from Friday to Sunday. I will be back on Monday morning, I promise."
"You know you have training. What is that? Where are you going?"
For that question, she prepared herself an answer that right now no longer sounded as good as it did before in her head. Somehow, it sounded stupid in her mind, that she wanted to go to an event, that... the event itself didn't interest her that much, it was the person that asked her to come.
"I know, I know, but it's just three days and you yourself said we are taking things slow, especially considering my ankle and diet change. It's the Canadian Grand Prix, it's not far." she explained.
"Oh, you're an F1 fan?"
"No– I mean– My friend, the one who was here not so long ago, is a driver. He invited me."
"A date, I get it."
"No!" she reacted immediately, maybe a bit too much, as Brian was already chuckling at her reaction. He did it on purpose, she should have known...
Amaliya herself, when planning what to tell Brian, almost accidentally called it a date and then scolded herself. Dates are restaurants, cinema, this type of things, not noise of cars and people, smell of burned rubber and cameras everywhere. And called as one. It was just a meeting, making use of the fact that they happen to be in the same country, and not far away.
Yet, she felt a little thrill at the thought of seeing him again – even shortly, as he was probably gonna be busy. It was strange, unfamiliar to her, as she was used to ignoring everything that may go in way to her goal.
Now? The goal was gone, nothing left to strive for. Training also gone, as she was still not allowed to do things she used to do – now she wasn't even sure she would be able to do them. After not practising them and becoming heavier and heavier. It might have been healthy, but this health was taking her skills away. So competing in the future? A big question mark.
Even though there was pressure from the new federation. For them she was like a godsend, perfectly in the moment their best skater retired and left no one to take the spot. And then there is she, wanting to switch from such a big skating federation like Russian, multiple medalist, Olympic medalist, current World Champion.
It was a different kind of pressure than she was used to. It wasn't about being replaced if you're not good enough, if you can't keep up with younger skaters, being one of many, constantly fighting for your spot. It was about being the one, all eyes and hopes on you.
And currently? She had no certainty that she'll be able to repeat her results from the past.
Yet, somehow it didn't get to her yet. She was thinking about herself, not some people expecting medals in the future. The fears were still somewhere in the back of her head. Always there, but not on the foreground.
Somewhere there, in the background, was also her opinion about relationships, that resulted in her never looking for one, neither paying attention to guys who wanted to hit on her: Relationship is a distraction.
Now she had nothing to be distracted from, nor training, no goal.
Additionally, after she opened herself a little, talked about some of her experiences, about her real situation, her opinion started to change into: Relationship is a support.
Maybe it's not that bad to have someone to care about you, ask how you're doing and listen to everything you don't want to carry alone, but have no one else to talk about with? She felt lighter after she shared her reality and worries, something she totally didn't expect. Maybe that was a better way than constantly distracting herself from pain.
Still a safe space, but in a different way. Not as a distraction, space detached from her reality, but somewhere where she won't be judged, no matter if she wants advice or just... someone who will listen.
"Okay okay, not a date." Brian smiled involuntarily, seeing her reaction to his slight tease. "Is that gonna be good for you?"
"I think so."
"And just three days?" in answer, Amaliya immediately nodded. "Okay. You're right, we're taking things slow and you're not competing in the upcoming season. So go, have fun, but responsibly. Alright?"
"Yes, of course, thank you." she smiled widely.
That's how she later found herself sitting on a bed, looking at the open suitcase, wondering what she should actually get. It wasn't the first time she was packing on a Formula One weekend, as she was to one with her dad last year, but this time it's different. Last time it was a gift for her dad, she didn't care that much. This time she was his guest, she couldn't just appear in the first thing she took out of the closet.
Booking everything, hotel, train, was already a hell itself – because of the racing weekend everything of course was more expensive, but more importantly, already booked. Well, that's how it is when you can't book things early enough because of your schedule.
But as that was done, the worst nightmare was packing. How many clothes should she get? It's just three days, but what if she gets dirty? Even a stupid coffee spilled on shirt, and she's gonna need a new one. What if it's hot and she's gonna be sweaty after one day? Or half of it?! She'll have to change!
And if it rains? It shouldn't, but who knows...
In the end, with a sigh full of resignation she reached for her phone and decided to call Max. She already did once, but he didn't pick up. Then texted that he'll soon call back, but that soon wasn't coming fast enough for her.
Maybe that was a bit stupid to call over something like that, but who else may know better what to bring than the guy that lives it?
She felt more stupid about the fact that she probably looks desperate, trying to reach like that.
"Is it some crisis or what?" she heard instead of a voice mail. Finally.
"What should I bring?" she asked without unnecessary explanations.
"What do you mean?" Max seemed genuinely confused with her question. What does she mean? Isn't it obvious?
"Clothes."
"I'm wearing jeans and a team shirt."
Amaliya fell silent for a moment. Slowly breathed in and out. She could have expected such an answer, she knew him well enough – especially after she once asked him to help her choose an outfit for training – but still hoped that she'll get an answer that will satisfy her.
"Or shorts if it's hot. Or a team jacket when it's cold." Max added, when she remained silent, as if not feeling that she's deeply disappointed with his answer and doesn't know if she should cry or laugh.
"I don't have a team shirt." she murmured, trying to lean more into the laugh thing.
"I can get you one–"
"Max. I'm literally sitting in front of an open suitcase. Can you try and be helpful?" Amaliya interrupted him. Her eyes once again scanned the empty suitcase and all the clothes that were scattered around.
"A whole suitcase for three days? You mean, a small one, right?"
"Just tell me what people are wearing, please." she covered her eyes with one hand and laid on bed, taking another deep breath.
"Everything."
The worst thing was, that it was the truth. Fans came mostly in teams shirts, meanwhile people in the paddock, celebrities, some designer clothes, different outfits for every day, as if it was a runway – to which he didn't pay attention. He wanted to feel comfortable, and for her to feel like that as well. That's all. No need to dress up without a reason.
"You know what? I'm feeling worse than before I called you."
"Just take whatever you'll feel comfortable in."
"Okay, I'll figure something out." she sighed, but quietly enough that he wouldn't hear it.
"Don't stress so much, whatever you wear it's gonna be okay. It's not a fashion show." he made a slight pause, then asked: "How are you by the way?"
Max often asked her casually how was her day, how is she in general and this type of stuff, and each time it warmed her heart. It was so casual, so normal, yet somehow caught her heart. She wasn't used to such care, not so often at least.
Last months she was more frustrated by such questions than appreciated them. Overall, they were rather making her nervous throughout her life. She didn't want to show that something is wrong, to make anyone worry about her and try to drag her away from skating and her goal.
After the Olympics, she cut off everyone so much that if they asked how she is, she would explode on them or hang up without a word. So people close to her stopped asking, or at least did it much less often.
Currently, she was accepting it, even happy about it, that she can speak about what nice things happened to her, about small things she was proud of or even complain about stuff that irritated her. And to hear how Max's day was when she asked back, even if he was complaining about the car and things she didn't understand.
It made her feel so... normal. Despite not knowing what next, no purpose, life was going on and that was somewhat calming.
"Currently, very irritated by packing. Overall? Quite excited." Amaliya admitted, even though she felt a bit shy about admitting it to him. Because what if he reads too much into it? Right now? Let him. She herself doesn't know what exactly she means by that.
"About cars riding in circles? Wow, I never thought I'd hear that from you."
Ama chuckled and turned on her side, to reach out and grab the cactus plushie he gifted her once. She debated with herself whether to joke or admit something that would make her feel vulnerable, like a cat showing off its belly.
But can she really say anything more vulnerable than she already did?
"More about seeing you." just as these words left her lips, she felt a blush creep on her cheeks and pulled the plushie closer, hiding her face in it, even though no one could see her right now. "It's... nice to see people do stuff they are passionate about." she added, as she regretted showing that vulnerable side after all, with how her cheeks burned and she was unsure of his reaction.
"I can't wait to see you too." Max answered, softly, as if wanting to ease her. Show that it's perfectly alright to say it and he appreciates it, it means the world to him. "I gotta go, but if you need anything else – call, or text if I don't pick up. I'll try to answer as soon as possible."
"Thanks." it was an answer to those words, but at the same time carried much more weight behind it. Thank you for being here for me, thank you for understanding, for making me happy, for caring.
She still didn't know what to pack – besides toiletries, make–up and maybe a curler, but at least got to hear his voice and a few kind words. It possibly had more worth than if he gave her actual advice on clothing.
* * *
When it comes to getting up early, she never had problems with that, due to how early her trainings in Moscow were – except for moments when she stayed on the phone until late night. This time it wasn't the case why while sitting on the train at six in the morning, she rested her head against the window and closed her eyes. She just... couldn't sleep. Maybe because of that thrill of excitement. Well, what a shame that it couldn't wake her in the morning.
She tried to focus on the music in her earphones, an energetic one that was supposed to wake her up but failed miserably. When things like that happened – tiredness during travel – she used to try to fall asleep, but never could do so. Her mind just couldn't turn off while in travel, no matter if it was a car, train or plane. Always awake, even on long flights. Her eyes could fall close and she didn't have enough strength to open them, but still sleep wouldn't come.
So right now, she was just trying to relax, listen to some music, and then maybe watch what's outside the window, if there are gonna be any nice views.
At first it was mostly lake outside of the window, the one she was already used to and seen multiple times. She looked down at her phone, and as she skipped to the next song, she opened her gallery and scrolled to the photos she and Max took at the lake. It wasn't so long ago, yet it felt like ages have passed.
Then the view changed to more rural and she changed her position a bit, stretching as much as she could. Despite earphones on, she could swear someone was talking about her, she felt someone staring. Pretending to stretch her neck, she looked around, and there was a guy and a girl, who were sitting on the opposite side of the train. The girl immediately looked away, so fast that she probably didn't notice Amaliya smiling softly.
She paused the music in her earphones, looking back outside the window.
"No, don't...!" the girl hissed at the guy she was sitting with and grabbed his hand, as he wanted to get up.
"Chill." he gently untangled their hands and got up to lean towards Amaliya. "Excuse me?" as she wasn't listening to music anymore, she heard it very well and took out one earphone. "We don't want to bother, but my girlfriend is a big fan. Could we ask for an autograph? And a photo?"
The girl was red on cheeks even more than she normally was because of the blush she used. And clearly angry at her boyfriend for exposing her like that.
"Sure. Do you have a pen, marker or anything?" she answered, with a soft smile on face again.
At that, the girl got less shy and opened her backpack, taking some notebook – that turned out to have some notes from university classes in – and pen out. She handed it over and Amaliya left her signature on an empty page, with the same precision as always.
She liked it and never said no when someone asked so nicely. Much better, than when someone raises a phone 'discreetly' to take a photo or record, though it didn't happen to her often or she just didn't notice. She wasn't up to date with every photo of her that appeared online. Sometimes people would tag her or send it to her, then she'd sometimes notice.
But what's there to do? She can sigh, shake her head and has to go on. Okay, maybe read some comments, she often couldn't stop herself from that.
Overall, it wasn't so annoying that she had to hide her face or something. Maybe sometimes in Russia or Japan, as she was the most popular there. Otherwise she has peace.
From the train station she got a taxi to the hotel. Her first idea was to just leave it and go out to get to the circuit, but then she looked at herself in the mirror in the bathroom and changed her mind.
She took out a make–up bag and touched up her make–up. Then got the curler – because of course in the end she managed to push it into the suitcase also – and in the end also changed her outfit. She couldn't just go in the jeans and t–shirt she got for travel. She changed into a skirt and shirt, over it putting a leather jacket she'll absolutely be too hot in, but it matched too well.
And a little bit of perfume, just in case she smells bad but doesn't feel it.
By the time she got to the track, there were obviously many people already. Luckily, she already knew how to move around, get the pass, where to enter and all that.
Yet still the noise was more than she was used to. People were moving everywhere, even though it was 'just' Friday.
When she was on her competitions, the areas in which she spent time were much more restricted, including who could stand at the boards. She had much more peace, always could run backstage if felt it's too much – which rarely happened, as she liked attention, but it all differs from the kind of attention.
Ama 🍀: *sent a selfie from the paddock*
Ama 🍀: I forgot how loud it is and the smell of rubber and fuel
Max read it, being after the first free practise already. He stood in the garage, leaning against the wall with an opened bottle of water in one hand.
Max 💙: I'm between practises, I'll catch you in a moment
"She's here?" he heard as soon as he clicked 'send' and was about to put the bottle away and reach for the gift he got her. It was Daniel, now standing next to him against the wall.
"Yeah."
"Okay, let's go." Daniel clapped his hands, already ready to leave the garage and see the girl it all was about live.
"But you're not going." Max said with absolute seriousness on his face.
People were moving around the garage, mostly mechanics. Conversations going on around them, all interrupted by noises from the inside as well as outside. But in all this, he had a dozen or so minutes to spend with her right now and no way it gets interrupted by Daniel.
Especially if he blurts out something.
"I'd like to remind you I did your errand. You hunted for those guards, mate." he pointed at the guards wrapped in a present paper, that were now held by Max.
"I kno–"
"And nearly didn't get them." he interrupted. "The girl before me wanted them. I had to use my charm and mushy story to get her to give it away to me."
"Didn't know you had any." Max patted him on the shoulder and wanted to pass him, but was stopped as Daniel grabbed him by the arm. "What?"
"You're gonna give her them now?"
"Yeah?"
"How romantic. Why not next to the front wing?" he pointed at the car, at which mechanics were adjusting something.
At the same time, Max felt the urge to roll his eyes – which he did a moment later – and how his cheeks are warm not only from the exertion earlier. He'd rather Daniel not tease him like that about things that were not... established, let's say.
He might have already made many steps that were supposed to push it into that direction, but everything felt fragile. For now he was just happy everything was good again between them and that she agreed to come.
"It's just a birthday gift."
"Mhm." with that murmur, it was obvious Daniel was not convinced. He liked to tease him every time there were some feelings going on, and this time it was also the case. Though it felt a little different, Max was being more guarded than usual. "She's not gonna get lost in the paddock, it's not a forest." he added, seeing Max check his phone again.
"Just checking, break isn't long."
"Then better go, run." he let go of his arm, even pushing him towards the exit. But as he was about to get out of his sight, Daniel couldn't stop himself and had to shout after him. "Oh, Max! I almost forgot!" Max – visibly annoyed, as he wanted to go already – turned and got back, impatiently waiting for what his friend had to say. "Don't screw up, because you're down bad."
For a moment, Max wanted to show him middle finger, but then decided it's not worth it and just waved him off, going where his legs really couldn't wait to go.
He was very well aware that he had fallen for her, long ago even – okay, certainty was growing with time, but there was something in the air when they first met. And here they are, almost a year later at a race weekend again. Yet still he didn't know how exactly she looked at him, was she leaning to the side he wished she did? Or maybe he should try harder?
A smile appeared on his lips the moment he saw Amaliya, she noticed him a moment later and turned her steps towards him. She didn't look like someone who just travelled a few hours to get here. Maybe a little tired, but it was wearing off quickly, as they approached each other and hugged briefly as a greeting.
She smelled like cherries, as his nose briefly brushed her neck, before she moved away.
"A bit late, but happy birthday." without a small talk, he handed her the packed gift and observed her reaction.
Before she unwrapped it, she shook it next to her ear, looking at him suspiciously. Then she pressed on the box, wanting to feel what's inside before unpacking. After the shape of the box she already had a wild guess what it may be.
"Are these hard guards?"
For a moment Max was too stunned to speak. It's just... a box... It didn't even make much sound as they were secured inside.
"Okay, how did you know?"
"Really?!" she hopped in place a few times with excitement, as she quickly unwrapped it. "PURPLE?!" seeing the colour she got even more happy, a wide smile on her face now, one that reached her eyes fully.
It was loud enough that no one really paid attention to her almost shouting with happiness over purple pieces of plastic.
It was adorable, how happy she was with such a small gift – and a practical one, Max remembered exactly what she said she needed to get, even the colour.
Seeing her like this? The most precious thing in the world.
"It's so amazing, how did you– okay, don't tell me how you got those. Just... Thanks, really."
Max tried his luck, looking away he slightly puffed out his cheek, clearly suggesting what acknowledgement would be the most appreciated by him.
And she went with it. Not without a slight eye roll, but got on her tiptoes and gave him a peck on that cheek. No bigger thoughts in that moment, just great happiness at both the gift and finally seeing him again.
"Tell me how the course is."
"Huh?" a deeply confused expression appeared on her face, as he asked that. She didn't know what he meant, until she remembered that when he was in Toronto she lied that she's doing the course 'soon', when in reality she didn't have any plans on that. "Ah, yeah yeah, great."
"How to start a car?"
She could have expected that he's gonna ask some questions to check if she's not lying. But she didn't think he remembered that! It was an innocent lie!
I don't even know which one is clutch... and others.
"It's only a theory for now." Amaliya continued with her lie, now more out of trying to save some dignity than trying to convince him.
"Oh really?" seeing how Max was holding back laughter, at least a bit of her dignity could be saved.
"I have those pins for you!" she quickly changed the topic and started to go through her bag – luckily took one big enough to fit guards inside – more precisely that one pocket where she put them. "Look. It resembles an F1 car, admit it. It does."
She pointed at the one that was in fact a sled, from team USA. Max leaned over to have a better look, as they started to slowly walk down the paddock.
"Imagination is a beautiful thing." he said eventually, which earned him a smack on the shoulder, to which he burst out laughing.
"But it does!" she gestured at the pin as if it could change anything. "And look, this one has a lion."
As they walked and discussed the pins as if it was the most important matter of the day, they were also passing photographers and journalists they couldn't care less about. Both knew perfectly well how visible they are here, but were busy with themselves.
Normally, possible cameras and shouted questions would only be pointed towards him, as she was almost non–recognizable in the paddock. Almost. It didn't apply to one kind of media all around the world, that would recognize Amaliya everywhere, no matter what event she attended. Russian media. From the country, where she was one of the biggest names, if not lately the biggest because of all the changes she made.
"Amaliya! Why did you change coaches?! Why did you betray your country?! How are you not ashamed?!"
She heard a shout in Russian, which was the first thing that confused her, only then came the meaning behind words and that they were pointed at her. Her. Here. A place she came to relax from her everyday life and its problems. But it seemed that life didn't forget about her.
Involuntarily she stopped for a moment and with a frown looked towards the journalist, even though she had no intention to answer such ridiculous questions.
"Ignore it." Max might have not understood what she was asked, but saw how she reacted and pulled her by the free hand to keep going.
"Are you still taking Russian money?!"
When she didn't move, he let go of her hand and instead gently put his hand on her waist and pulled her alongside him, as he continued walking.
"You got all your skills and fame from Eteri Tutberidze, why leave after fifteen years of success?! What now?! What’s your plan, dope your way back to the top?!"
She let herself be pulled away finally, but couldn't just ignore what was shouted towards her. She was aware of what was written about her in Russia as well as in the comments on her Instagram – the similar thing was happening to Evgenia, but a little lighter, as she took the biggest blow by leaving just after winning World Championships and changing the federation.
Still, she didn't expect to experience it here.
"You okay?" Max checked on her, giving her waist a little squeeze before letting go, realising that might have been a bit too close, but Ama didn't even notice. "What was it even about?"
"Same bullshit as last months, ignore it." she said, but it was her who had a problem with moving on from it.
Things were taking many different turns throughout her life, but she has never faced so much hate. There was always... like an army of fans who protected her in the comments, but now many of those fans turned into haters just because she decided to change her life for the better. Okay, they didn't know her health situation and feelings, but couldn't guess it from everything that happened? Or at least believe she had a good reason to take such serious steps?
She has already accepted that if she comes here there may appear headlines like: 'former Russian skating star spotted at F1 event', but now her mind pushes her one who sound more like: 'Svetlanoca avoids questions about coaching past' or 'New life abroad, Svetlanova already forgot about the country that put her on the top'.
"I'll have to go, hectic schedule. You'll be alright?" Max asked quietly, leaning closer to her.
"Yeah yeah, don't worry."
"Text if you need anything, I'll answer when I can."
Even though she tried hard, that encounter haunted her for the rest of the day and in the next one too. It was supposed to be a fun weekend, not a place where she'll be reminded of problems and hate she receives from the country that was half her after all. She had the right to choose, especially after how it was decided for her when she didn't even understand what she was getting into, and after all they took from her.
Despite that encounter she tried to enjoy herself. To forget, she decided that she'll watch, actually watch, the whole qualifying. And try to understand. She kept on glancing down to her phone, to google out another thing, in the end becoming more confused. Except the most important thing, that the faster the better.
But tires? Corners? Every other complicated word she heard? Her dad would surely know what it is about, but he wasn't here and she wouldn't be calling him.
She wrote those things that confused her down, deciding that after the whole weekend, when she has a full page of questions, she'll just send it to Max and wait for a voice message that will be more of a podcast probably.
After qualifying, she waited, as Max said he'll catch her for lunch.
She didn't push on him, she understood perfectly how hard it is sometimes to make time in the schedule. It's his passion, his work, his weekend. She's for him here anyway, of course she'll wait.
It would be stupid of her to be angry because he was late. As an athlete herself, she understood the need of focus, of working with the team, preparing yourself. As already mentioned – it's his job, she's just a guest in it. Happy to be there. And maybe make him happy, just by knowing that she's here, watching him, clapping and trying to understand his passion – at the same time not demanding attention, which was a bit surprising for him at first.
Max was afraid she might be a bit disappointed that he invited her and then doesn't have time for her, but she only gave him a playful pout through messages, just after that sending how she's so deeply suffering with a drink at lounge, without his whining next to her ear.
And then wishing good luck, because for once he has all her attention while riding in circles.
That second day in the paddock, she felt a bit more confident moving around. Already knew where is what, how to move around and recognized some people – doesn't mean she'd approach them, oh no no.
She wasn't feeling like... part of the circle.
It just wasn't her environment. At her events she didn't have problems with coming up to some random people and asking things, many friendships started like that – like the one she had with Yuzuru. But here? It wasn't that time yet. Maybe if Max was next to her, then she'd probably feel more confident.
But she had him only for lunch. Lunch, at which she reminded herself 'eat' and got more than she'd normally get. She's doing good, it feels strange on the ice, but she has to remember it's for her health.
"By the way, I put on some weight. Almost two kilos for the last month." she said when they were sitting opposite to each other. She needed to hear from him that it's alright, a few words of reassurance that will make it easier for her to eat all that.
It felt strange, how one day she could eat without problems and enjoyed all the flavours, meanwhile on the next one she felt guilt and fought with herself to eat enough. Luckily, slowly there were less and less of such days.
"That's great!" Max smiled. "That deserves a reward." he said and pushed a muffin towards her.
"No, no, no, I already got all I need on this plate." she pushed it back, but he stubbornly pushed it towards her again... so with a sigh she let it be there.
"And the rest? How's your ankle?"
"Looks good. Still no training like before yet, but soon I'll be back to at least single jumps. So I'll get that... thrill again, you get it?"
He nodded. He might not know how it is to jump on ice, but compared it to driving, the thrill of speed, late breaking, fighting, overtaking... Yeah, he had a good idea how good adrenaline feels.
"So maybe no knee or any other surgeries for me yet–" she paused, seeing how he suddenly started staring at her as if she told him she's moving to the moon, to live there from now on. "What?"
"That was an option? Surgeries?"
"I'm younger than you but have way older joints, so yeah." she shrugged as if it wasn't a big deal. To be honest, it terrified her, but somewhat she got used to the thought that one day she may actually need such a surgery. Or two. "But as I heal old injuries and will have more muscles around to better take the impact of landings and protect joints, my doctor is optimistic."
"Then I'm also optimistic." he kept eye contact with her, which was harder and harder for her to bear, but she didn't dare to look away. "Really, I'm proud of you. Of all you do for yourself."
Because of the intense stare of his blue eyes, she almost didn't notice the squeeze he gave to her hand that she kept on the table. She hoped he would hold it, because this way before she realised what was happening, it already passed.
"I didn't thank you yet, but I'm glad you came." he added.
"You invited me."
"But it's not..." he gestured around. "The relaxing weekend you may hope for after a long week."
"Actually it is in some way."
Not to mention the fact that the area where they had lunch was much quieter than everything outside, even that noise was somewhat relaxing. Eyes were on her sometimes, yes, but it was different.
For once there were no expectations on her, no thinking about the future, no frustrations about her current situation. Just... This. Sport everyone around her understood much better than she did. Sport she used to ignore when her dad was yapping about it.
And now she was sitting in front of a driver, a guy who was deep into this, whose goal it was to get her for years. And somehow they understood each other. She enjoyed being here with him even for this brief moment he got to spend with her, and her stomach did a flip surely not because she was hungry or eaten something bad.
"It's... so different. I don't think about anything that's going on with my life currently and just... get to enjoy my time. It's a rare thing, I appreciate it." she continued, trying to shortly explain how much it means to her.
Then she caught his eyes and hesitated for a moment.
Because... He was still a bit disheveled, probably sweaty and tired. Still had that adrenaline in him, even if it was 'just' qualifying and after the race tomorrow all that she sees now will be multiplied. But damn... She likes it. That look, all about it.
But how to say it and not turn into a tomato?
"And... I like seeing you like this. That side of you, focused on doing something you love." she finally put it into these words, though it didn't catch the physical attraction that was going through her mind.
"And sweaty." he added, which she was glad for, because it broke the tension.
"I'm used to it, I doubt I would smell it even if it was right against my nose." she tapped the top of her nose. Her words made Max laugh, so she continued, feeling that he doesn't quite believe her that she gets as sweaty as him. "For real! The dresses? They may stink. Often you can't really wash them, mostly because of all the bedazzling. So after you train in them to get the feeling if everything's okay... and then do a competition or two... They may stink. And you can do nothing about it." she spread her arms and shrugged. "I can wash it only in cold water, so it doesn't help at all. Actually, I sometimes spray them with vodka mixed with water every time after I wear them. And it works!"
He burst into even more laughter, covering his face, as his shoulders shook and betrayed how much it amused him.
"I'm glad the team takes care of my suits for me."
"Bourgeois." she threw jokingly, leaning back on her chair.
"Should I arrange someone to wash your dresses too?" he leaned in, propping his head on his hands.
"No, thanks, I have two perfectly healthy hands, I can do it myself."
"So you can also get yourself flowers, remember about your birthday, go on holidays alone..." he went on listing things on his fingers. "...cheer on yourself on competition, take yourself out to a restaurant–"
"I'm already doing all that." she lied just to continue with the playful – or maybe, rather flirty – banter.
"But when someone does it for you it's more fun. You can complain if you don't like the flowers or the booked hotel is way too far away from the beach."
"People complain about such things?" for a moment she didn't if Max was still joking or it really happened.
"Yes." he was totally serious, even though he snorted at her disbelief.
"Really?!" she leaned in. "Like– What, you got girl tulips and she threw them away because they weren't red roses?"
"Not exactly, but–"
"No way, I don't wanna hear that." she picked up a fork full of salad and stuffed it into his mouth. "The girl was stupid."
"If everything happens for a reason, I can see a reason behin–"
He again didn't get to finish, but this time Amaliya picked up that muffin from earlier and pushed it behind his lips. But this time, because she'd absolutely blush if he finished that sentence.
As the encounter with the journalist got her into a bad mood, that lunch left her devastated in the best way possible: not knowing where all of this is heading but very excited for what the outcome may be.
While everyone was on tenterhooks during Sunday because of the race, she was both because of that plus waiting for a moment she gets to see him. The list on her phone was still open, still new things were being added, but right now instead of a voice message (podcast–like long) explaining them she'd rather imagine sitting together somewhere and discussing it.
It was the first time she was really invested in a full race and trying to understand what was happening before her eyes. If she ever happens to visit him on a race weekend again – and she hopes she does – she'd like to know better what all the things that commentators say and what can be heard on the team radio means.
It wasn't her world, it had nothing to do with what she does for a living, but it was his, and that's why she wanted to understand. Now it had some meaning to her, not just something her dad watches and she has to listen to his yapping from time to time.
When Max finished third, she actually felt joy flow through her and smiled widely, clapping her hands even though he couldn't see it.
But there was a moment when Amaliya got to show him how happy she was. Near the garages, where they could have a slightly more private moment – because nothing can be completely private on the paddock.
Him still in the suit, very sweaty and hair a total mess, but luckily before a podium, so not sticky from champagne yet. She hugged him tight, hands around his neck as she murmured congratulations straight to his ear.
Just as she said the day before, she couldn't care less about the sweat, and was too used to the smell and sensation. Besides, it was that 'good' kind of sweat, after something big, with great amounts of adrenaline, after an exertion – not the 'I don't shower' or 'it's hot today' kind. This came with attraction striking through her mind again.
She could melt against him at that moment. He was warm, heart still beating fast, but felt like peace. Like a place she doesn't want to leave, because all of her problems go away here.
It reminded her a bit of that moment, where she accidentally woke him up in the middle of the night. He had the same disheveled hair that was somehow still looking fluffy, despite the sweat. She could only imagine that if she could hug him back then it would feel exactly the same, same stability, peace – though additional warmth would most likely come from the duvet.
"This time I'm proud of you." she murmured against his shoulder, still with closed eyes.
"Next time you come it's gonna be first."
She felt his arms tighten around her waist and back even more, pulling her closer against him, so she felt even better how the adrenaline was just getting off of him. And she didn't dare to pull away first.
"I'm your lucky charm for a reason."
~Author's note~
For anyone wondering how the pins Amaliya got Max are looking like, here you go:
tag list: @anaylen01 @stup1dlysmart-human @cosmosnkaz
Since you enjoy writing content about social media, a great topic to explore—one that would send the internet into a frenzy—would be whether Amaliya attends the races in 2019; gossipmongers could spin a narrative suggesting that the incident involving Lestappen happened because Charles was trying to win Amaliya over
Sponsors were willing to pay more after the Olympics, despite (or perhaps because of) the controversy—because all attention is good attention, right?
Since Amaliya won't be able to compete for a year, she could split her time outside of training between growing as an influencer and watching Max's races in person
She surely has more free time now, as the doctor is not allowing her to jump, as she's healing, but later she'll have to restore all the jumps, which will take time. And maybe perform at some shows.
Surely it's different than when she's competing, but how much time will she actually have, when restoring comes? 🤔 Hard to say
With the World Cup underway, many are wondering why people follow the lives of F1 WAGs more closely than those of WAGs from other sports.
In case you didn't know, F1 broke out of its bubble and really gained popularity with a broader, younger audience after the series Drive to Survive premiered in 2019. That’s how many people discovered the sport—including Alex’s fiancée, Lily. Although the series presents itself as a documentary, it is as scripted as a teen drama; that is how WAGs went from being irrelevant to being promoted to supporting characters.
Every teen series needs three essential things:
A hero — the charming Sir Lewis Hamilton.
A villain — a role assigned to the hot-headed, press-wary Max Verstappen.
Female characters for a female audience. Instead of choosing women who actually work in motorsports, they chose the WAGs because their relationships with the drivers would eventually generate drama. An obvious example is the situation involving the ex-partners and current partners of the former Ferrari duo; the fanbases they have garnered constantly trade barbs online—fueled precisely by the very audiences for whom the series provided the platform to cultivate a following.
You might be wondering why I'm mentioning this!!!!
I love the social media aspects—they’re so realistic! Since Amaliya is a two-time world champion and Olympic medalist, she already has her own fan base—and after what happened at the Olympics, I imagine her name has reached the general public.
It will be interesting to observe the public's reaction to a relationship in which the woman is more successful or famous than the man, and to follow the couple's rising fame. As Max himself mentioned in an interview, he used to be able to walk down the street undisturbed, but in recent years, he cannot go out without someone taking his picture.
I'm so glad you noticed & you like it!
I can't imagine this fanfic without a social media aspect, as – let's be honest – it's really important in relationships like this, of two public people, successful athletes.
For Max of course it's not as big fame yet, as it's 2018 in the fanfic, but he's still getting fans, more and more. Meanwhile, Amaliya already established herself as an icon in figure skating. Multiple medalist, champion & record holder. And recent Olympic drama (any attention is still attention) and change of coaching team and federation (even though it also brought her hate from some Russian public). Not to mention her dad popularity in Italy as a former volleyball player, and her brother's growing one as a current player.
Also makes me question – in this relationship, is she really a WAG? Technically, but also technically, Max would be a HAB 😂
I'm excited to come to the point where Ama & Max are in a relationship and go through the public reactions and how they may influence them! Especially with Ama being pretty active on her profile. Also – who would expect such a couple? Where did they even meet? How is it working?
And a pretty much sponsor's dream for Red Bull, as Max is in their team and Ama is sponsored by them.
I can't wait to go through it, I always love when I get to add media aspect. So happy you're noticing how important and complex it is! 🫶
Max Verstappen x OC!fem!figureskater ~not much knowledge required, OC explains things to Max as he was never into figure skating, so you'll understand too <3
-> Chapter XIX ''Melt''
-> Chapter XXI ''His world''
-> This fanfic's masterlist
Chapter XX ''Little big things''
Max: I see you're true to your word
Max: But you didn't give me occasion to thank you
Amaliya saw those messages even before she left the airport. He realised she put a little, stupid gift into his pocket way quicker than she expected him to. But no, he had to reach into the pocket when she could still see him. And now she had to face the 'consequences'.
Suddenly, she felt her cheeks being way too warm for it to be normal. She put her phone back into the pocket and tapped her cheeks a few times, only now actually thinking about that little, funny present. She always knew it's stupid, but only now, after seeing him again in person, having a great time and a hug, she realised how suggestive it can be.
She took her phone out and typed back quickly.
Ama: I just realised I gave you an olympic level protection as a goodbye gift...
Max: Makes me wonder what kind of message that is supposed to be
Ama: Nothing. I just promised to bring it
Max: Right
Max: So... Should I keep it or is it... symbolic, or something?
She barely managed to cool down a little and her cheeks got hot again. It's not making her uncomfortable, but a bit embarrassed, especially when those suggestive messages made her mind imagine some things...
And she knew he knew what effect it had on her and was enjoying every second of it. Probably wished he could see her face.
Ama: Max.
Max: Ama.
Ama: Do whatever you want
Ama: You said you'll frame it
Max: I can
Max: But you gave me more than one
I can't believe I brought this on myself.
Ama: I don't wanna hear about it
Okay, maybe she wants, but only a tiny little bit and she won't show it. Otherwise how will she look him in the eyes when she sees him at the Canadian Grand Prix, without blushing or nervous giggles? It already makes her feel complicated things – not discomfort as she thought it's gonna be.
It was something she couldn't label or put her finger on. It just... Was. A bit annoying, because she couldn't name it, but at the same time brought warmth to both her face and chest.
Max: You literally started the topic
Ama: You continued it
There was a short pause, he probably had to do something regarding the flight, and then a new message came.
Max: Should I maybe...
Max changed Ama's nickname to Ama 💦
Oh, what a–
Bold move. Very bold. Made her literally gasp and stop in the middle of a pavement.
No way in hell her nick stays like that. Someone is feeling way too cocky right now and she has to deal with consequences. Or lean into it, if she's gonna feel cocky as well.
Ama 💦: MAXIMILIAN
Ama 💦: I'M BLOCKING YOU 🖕
Ama 💦 changed his/hers nickname to Ama
Max: Noooo why did you do that :(
The answer came way quicker than she expected, alongside with that sad emoji, though she rather imagined Max with a pout. It almost made her laugh, imagining his reaction to that whole banter. But she remembered she's in a public place and wouldn't like people to see her chuckling to her phone – or even worse, take a photo of it.
Ama: I won't be terrorized
Max: But it's so... bare without something
Ama: It didn't bother you earlier
As nothing new came, she walked over to the bus stop and checked on her phone when something that will take her closer to home will arrive. While doing that, she saw a notification pop on the top of her screen. He changed her nick again, she swears to God–
Max changed Ama's nickname to Ama 🍀
That's... Unexpected. She thought he's gonna continue to tease her, but that emoji genuinely confused her. Well, a four–leaved clover is obviously a symbol of luck, but how is it connected to her? She didn't seem to have any luck lately.
Ama 🍀: ???
Max: Maybe you'll be my lucky charm
Oh, that... that was a way sweeter explanation than she expected and made her almost miss the bus. Max surely knew how to speak to make her heart flutter and probably perfectly knew it.
And she liked when he did that.
But if we're being bold, let's be bold to the limit and see where it takes them.
Ama 🍀 changed Max's nickname to Max 💙
She was hesitating which colour of heart to choose, and eventually – after googling the meaning of blue heart, as deep friendship, platonic affection, trust and loyalty – decided on this one. Bold, because it's a heart, but at the same time safe because of meaning.
Ama 🍀: Because you bring me peace (mostly)
Max 💙: Mostly?
Ama 🍀: Don't push your luck
Max 💙: Okay okay, I'll take it
The bus came and she got in. She reached into her bag to take out earphones and felt something that shouldn't be there, at least not anymore. She would swear if she was alone, but as some older lady sat next to her, she just sighed deeply and opened their chat again.
Ama 🍀: I just realised I forgot to give you pins 🤦♀️
The two pins she 'fought' so hard to get for him, a sled that for her looked like an F1 car and a lion pin she almost had stolen, but in the end managed to exchange it. Both were still in her bag. She didn't forget to give him condoms, but forgot about that.
Well, she will put it on the emotions and how stressed she was, pushing them discreetly into his pocket.
Max 💙: But you remembered the most important thing, protection <3
She was no longer even annoyed, just shook her head and leaned into the joke finally.
Ama 🍀: Someone has to remember
Max 💙: Oh? 🤨
Max 💙: I may not look like that, but I'm responsible
Ama 🍀: Randomly flying across the world because someone is not answering doesn't sound responsible
Max 💙: First of all, it was planned
Max 💙: Second of all, your dementia gives you another reason to come to the GP ;)
Ama 🍀: I already said I'll come, no need to convince me more 🙄
Max 💙: Just making sure you remember
Ama 🍀: Haha so funny
Max 💙: You took it?
Ama 🍀: Took what?
Max 💙: Your skating bag, from the backseat. Before I returned the car
For a moment, she felt as if blood drained from her face. Her bag... With everything she needs for training, left and she may not get it back. If she can't get it, she'll have to buy everything, wait, break in boots what will a nightmare without jumping at all–
Wait. Wait a minute–
Ama 🍀: YOU IDIOT, I LEFT IT AT HOME BEFORE WE WENT ON WITH THE DAY!
Max 💙: 🤣🤣🤣
Max 💙: I WISH I COULD SEE YOUR FACE
What a cruel joke, she could expect that. She fell for it way too easily. Like... She almost completely forgot they stopped by her home, so she could leave her training stuff and change clothes.
Ama 🍀: *sent a selfie, with an expression of deep disappointment*
Max 💙: You won't fool me, you were panicking
Ama 🍀: You're using my trust 💔
Max 💙: It was stronger than me
Max 💙: Sorry
Ama 🍀: It's not an honest apology
Max 💙: No
Max 💙: But I will make it up to you somehow, don't worry
'Make it up to her', she was already imagining how.
Ama 🍀: Text me when you land
Max 💙: Or call
Ama 🍀: Don't call if it'll be night for me
Max 💙: Oh? And you could wake me up?
Ama 🍀: Not my fault you don't mute phone for the night, I do 😌
When she came back home, she still looked at the place where she usually puts her skating bag – just in case – and it really was there.
Suddenly, it felt... lonely, to be there. Even if the apartment wasn't big, no huge space to get lost in alone. Especially when she looked at that single lily that she could swear was staring at her back asking 'what now?'.
"I don't know." she murmured, and sat at the table on which she left a flower in a vase.
Amaliya stared at its white and pink petals, touching them with index finger. She momentarily started thinking about their whole meeting, since the moment he gave her this flower when today's morning she got into the car. She went through all of it, up to the airport goodbye, the hug.
It was heartwarming. He held her in his arms and she felt like she safely fell apart in them. Faint scent of his cologne, the same one she once felt when she got a plushie from him.
Strange, it was the first time they hugged, yet it wasn't awkward, rather... like a reunion. Coming back to something she already knew.
She never expected to grow so close to someone over texts, hundreds or even thousands kilometers away from each other. It felt like something that doesn't happen in real life, yet there she was.
And already missing talks and the embrace.
The only thing she had left was that single flower that would wither away in a few days. She didn't want to throw it to the trash just like that, like it was some fleeting moment not worth remembering.
She pulled out her phone and googled: 'How to dry flowers'.
* * *
Over a week later, came her birthday. Amaliya didn't really pay attention to it. Of course, she was celebrating it every year, cake and some gifts, but usually it was just another day of training or sometimes a show. If it happened to be the latter, friends would sometimes bring her cake at the end of the show. She wasn't too thrilled to hold a cake with big sparkler candles, while still on the ice where she could accidentally slip. But hearing the whole audience sing 'happy birthday' to her... Moved her. Obviously.
This time it was training day, nothing special.
Until the music changed and she saw Yuzuru get on the ice with a cake in hands, which she was already scared of dropping. And momentarily noticed Zhenya in the back, with her phone up, to record everything.
"Happy birthday!" she shouted, skating closer, to get a better angle for the camera.
Then they and a few other skaters that had a session at that moment, started singing 'happy birthday' for her. And she? She stood there, covering her mouth while smiling widely. It was so heartwarming, while some moments were still hard for her, to know that there are people who care about her so much. Who spent their free time on planning something for her, even if it wasn't big. The intention meant the most, getting out of their way to create this nice moment for her.
It meant much, especially now, when she sometimes still had hard moments – even with such 'small' things as not weighing herself every day or accepting numbers getting higher. When she was irritated with how little things she can currently do. When she saw the hateful comments on the internet about her switching federations, even if she did that for her health.
"Think of a wish." said Yuzuru, skating over to her, and she almost took a step back, seeing how sparkler candles were still completely on.
A wish... She used to wish to not get injured, to go to the Olympics, to win... What can she wish for now?
Actually, there are way too many things she can think of. Getting healthy, coming to peace with herself, for her dad to finally leave mother and find someone who will truly care for him, to continue career, to be able to come back competitive... have friends, be in love, just be happy. Not much, yet it felt so big, when she was about to blow the candles.
She bit her lip in thought, and finally leaned and blew them. She didn't count, but surely there were nineteen of them.
"Happy last year of being a teenager!" shouted Zhenya, and stopped recording to skate up to her and hugged. "May all your wishes come true."
"I'm still holding the cake." Yuzuru said, standing just next to them, with both hands busy. After a moment, Evgenia took the cake from him so he could hug Amaliya as well. "Happy birthday, little menace." he ruffled her hair.
"Thanks, thanks to all of you– You see I'm almost crying, right?" she chuckled, wiping her eyes with her hands, for a moment forgetting that she might have just smudged her mascara.
@ amaliya.svetlanova
*a video that Evgenia recorded*
A big thank you and a lot of kisses to everyone, who was involved in that surprise for me ❤️ And for all of your messages and comments, your wishes and support mean the world to me 😊 Last year was... woah, I can't even put it in words. So much happened, both good and bad, and so much is still to come. Can't wait to see what waits for me in another year of my life. Last of being a teenager... Any suggestions on what to do before I'm officially old?
– Happy birthday queen!!! Next year without you in competition gonna feel empty, but take care, we will wait for the biggest come back ever 💪
⤷ she won't be back 😂
⤷ oh no, some random said she won't, I guess it's all lost
⤷ Season is A LOT in figure skating. By the time she's back, there will be dozens of stronger, younger and less injured from her, who will take the spotlight
⤷ Even if, then what? I feel like she finally loves what she's doing. And she has nothing left to prove. 2 times world champ at 18, and you???
⤷ yeah, she has every medal beside the one that actually means something: olympic gold
⤷ Huh? 🤨 She was absolutely robbed of that gold, but even with that aside – in what world do WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS mean nothing?
– I can't believe it's been so long. One day I'm watching you debut in juniors and now you're almost 20... And then I realise how old I am 😆
⤷ I'm her peer, grew up with her and it feels like being on a friend's birthday. I can't imagine my life without updates from her, so I'm even more proud of the choices she made for herself 🥹
⤷ I'm younger than her, she's like a big sis to me!
– Ama, live when??? It's been so looonggg 😩
⤷ I miss her yapping on random topics in the evening 💔
⤷ or while doing make–up...
⤷ and interacting with comments
⤷ In another life she'd a streamer 100%
⤷ That one live where she played horror is still living rent free in my head
– So sweet 🥰
– Yuzuru 100% in his big brother era, with both Ama & Zhenya in Toronto 🥹
⤷ And we LOVE to see it!
– And where is that guy from the photo???
⤷ they're up for other kind of celebrations 😌
⤷ you all are fucking crazy.
⤷ You guys are still not over that photo?
– If I was to do it, I'd totally trip over with the cake in my hands
– Your dad? brother? they didn't celebrate with you?
⤷ this family is crazy, don't expect too much
⤷ She doesn't have to post every single person who wished her happy birthday, chill people
To be honest, after posting that she didn't have much time to read comments or messages from fans. After everything, on her way out of the club, she was texting with a certain someone.
Ama 🍀: I got wishes from you, but where is some gift? 💔
Max 💙: When you come to the GP 😌
Ama 🍀: You don't have a gift yet, don't you?
Max 💙: I do!
And that was actually the truth, but getting it wasn't as easy as he thought it would be. He remembered her complaining about the hard guards and that she needs new ones, but can't find fully purple ones. So he decided it's a perfect gift idea, nothing expensive that could make her feel uncomfortable, and something practical.
He didn't know yet that it's not as easy as he thought, and when she said she couldn't find it, she really meant it. The only good thing was that they didn't have sizes, so he didn't have to guess on that. But finding them?
He felt so stupid asking a friend, who was currently in a city, in which there was a shop with one available pair, to get them for him. Of course there were questions and jokes, but well... he'll survive that.
That's also why she would get it on the Grand Prix, because Max physically didn't have them yet. Though even if he did, he'd still choose to give it to her in person, to see the reaction. Does she expect it may be something like that? That he noticed and remembered what she said she'd like to get either way?
Ama 🍀: Send a photo or you're lying
Max 💙: ...
Max 💙: It's a surprise
Amaliya was about to tease him a bit more, but as she was typing a call came from her brother. She picked up and raised the phone to her ear. Somehow, after she spoke honestly with Max, she felt a bit more relaxed talking with family as well. Some of the tension must have left her, when she shared parts of her story.
"Hi old. Happy birthday!" the voice was loud enough that she winced. Or maybe because she didn't put down the volume, after she put it on max for a late night, almost whispered talk. "I wish you to grow, so you can finally reach shelves in stores."
"I'll steal a few centimeters from you, so maybe finally you won't get a bump on the forehead every time you go through the doors." she spoke back in the same light, kidding manner as he did.
"As a gift, I'll get you a better sense of humour, no matter how much it costs."
"Get yourself some brain on the way."
"I'm glad your attitude didn't change." everything was still playful between them, yet somehow it hit her.
That she didn't change, despite everything. That she still can joke with him, and enjoy them teasing each other. Not just shut off and pretend she doesn't need anyone, telling them only basics so they won't worry about her.
"How's Canada?" Leo asked, bringing her out of her thoughts.
"Colder than you'd like it." she shrugged even though he couldn't see it. "But there is at least one good Italian restaurant here. And nice public transport."
"You didn't start the driving course?"
Why is everyone asking her that lately? As if she even needs it... When she sits in a bus or tram she can scroll through her phone or read a book and don't care what's happening on the road. Yes, she has to be on time or wait, especially when there is some malfunction... But it's not so often, so what's the point?
"I wouldn't have to, if certain someone would teach me." Ama answered, clearly meaning him by 'someone'.
"You'd kill my girl!"
"It's just a car! When you stall it it's alright?"
"I apologize after..."
She felt like laughing right now, at how much love he had for his cars– girls. She couldn't really understand him, she never had such feelings towards anything. Skates? She broke them down too quickly to care how they look. Clothes? Bags? Shoes? Just items, she can always buy a new one. She had some love for shoes, but not enough to care that much.
Maybe... Maybe a phone. But it's an important item! And she still sometimes throws it without a care. Can't even count how many times she accidentally dropped it on the ice.
"No, you don't."
"In mind."
Amaliya rolled her eyes and reached to push the doors open. She suddenly stopped and squinted a bit, as she couldn't believe her eyes. She could swear there was her dad, waiting for her, and now even waving.
It's the second time in a month someone she didn't see for a long time is waiting for her under her club and she's starting to get scared about who's gonna come here next. Eteri Tutberidze herself?
She wanted to quickly end the call, but Leo being Leo, had to interrupt her and ask a stupid question.
"Hey hey, before you go, who's that guy?"
As if she wasn't in a big enough shock, he had to ask that, immediately making her blush. She didn't know who exactly he meant – though she could guess – and how he knew about Max.
"What guy?" she asked, pretending she didn't know anything. But did he buy it? Hard to say.
"The one from the airport–"
Before Leo could finish, she hung up and pushed her phone to the bottom of her bag. It was already vibrating with notifications and she knew exactly what they were. She absolutely won't be taking care of it right now.
And the airport? Someone photographed them at the airport? Knowing this, she was absolutely sure it had to be the moment of a hug. But... He was asking her who it was, so no one recognized Max? Or maybe his face was not visible in the photo? Otherwise her DMs and comments would already be full of questions.
Okay, lately she might not read them so much, but Zhenya would notice and tease her about it. Or Max himself would say something. Right?
So for now... Everyone is only wondering who she was hugging goodbye at the airport? No big news?
She will check it out when she's back home. For now it seems her dad is waiting for her.
"I didn't expect to see you here. Leo was just calling." she walked up to him, adjusting the skating bag on her shoulder.
"Figured out it's better to come in person. I haven't seen you for a long time."
To be exact, since the Olympics, when he was in the audience and she was in no state to talk with anyone. She didn't even call on video or pick up such a call. As far as she remembered they weren't seeing each other often, she was used to it, but now it felt different, because of the way they last parted. It wasn't a hug, a goodbye, already thinking of the next meeting.
From her side it was silence, anger, feeling that no one understands her. That everything is gone and nothing has value anymore, even herself.
So she pushed everyone away and remained alone in her grief.
Now... She still hadn't accepted that loss, but there was nothing she could do, she had to move on. She took a step towards maybe a better life and didn't know where it would take her yet. Everything was still uncertain and though she didn't really know how to handle this meeting.
"Wanna go somewhere and... have dinner or coffee?" he proposed, taking a step closer and smiling warmly.
Normally, she'd probably already launched herself for a hug, but now everything was too tense between them. She didn't even know what would be okay to do now, and Matteo seemed to have the same problem. How to approach his own daughter? Does he even know her? Really know her?
Those last months were more than enough time for thinking. Not only about what he saw from the audience at the Olympics, but the whole life of his daughter. All he saw and didn't see. How she was really growing up, what she was hiding – it wasn't a question whether there was something, but what it was – how many lies was he told? Why?
Maybe he didn't know her at all. Maybe he was too focused on his son. But while he was taking care of Leo, Anna was there for Amaliya. Or at least was supposed to be.
There was only one questionable situation, when he learned that instead of spending the money he sends on Ama's equipment, she spent it on clothes and bags. It created a big argument and changed how he sent money, but nothing more, he didn't take her back to Italy, didn't stop her training. Because everything was solved and she wanted to continue, right?
Or maybe there were more situations he could have, but didn't notice?
He himself went through many disappointments throughout his career, but none of them were as emotional and drastic as what his little girl experienced. The girl he was in love with since the first test, first ultrasound, first heartbeat. Even with Leonardo throwing a tantrum from time to time, that he doesn't want to have a sister.
When they learned they were having a girl this time, he already imagined all the things he would get her, places he'd show her. And a wonderful chaos, that brother and sister would create at home – well, that in the end didn't happen, as they grew up separately.
Meanwhile his wife, since the moment she learned they're having a daughter, was saying with full confidence: she'll be a figure skater.
Back then he didn't think about it as something weird, just laughed it off. Now he's thinking that maybe it was the first warning he ignored.
Simultaneously with first steps on the ground, Amaliya was doing first slides on the ice, as they were visiting ice rinks. Eventually, when she was three, a big argument happened: Anna wanted to move out to Moscow, so their daughter could train there, as she believed there are the best coaches. For Matteo it wouldn't change much, as he was still in professional sport, but the issue was their son, Leo. He has already started school and training volleyball, he didn't want to abruptly stop that.
Another thing was language, as Anna already was doing pretty well with Italian and living here, but Matteo with Russian? Basics. Of course he could learn, but the most important factor on his decision was Leo.
In the end, they split, almost three thousand kilometers between them. Only because that little girl looked at him with her big grey eyes and asked when she could skate again, spin and jump like those ladies on TV, when he was putting her to bed. And they after as well. And another one too. And burst into tears when his answers didn't meet her expectations.
Did he later regret that decision? Yes, before he got used to not seeing his little girl every day – besides travelling for games alone sometimes.
Back then he didn't think that it's not the dream of that little girl, but a thing her mother put into her head – though he really believed she fell in love with this sport. The constant 'you have to start early' also puts some pressure.
Anna was very passionate about that sport, it was her own unfulfilled dream to be a figure skater, to compete internationally and score medals. But her parents couldn't afford it. What they could and put her into, was rhythmic gymnastics. Unfortunately, quite early on she got an injury and couldn't continue. Or maybe fortunately, because she didn't really like it.
Yet it didn't stop her from pursuing her dreams into her daughter, just like her parents did with her.
But unlike Anna, Amaliya succeed, turned out to be the best of thousands of girls who fought for the spots in the national team. And it was looking like she really loved it, like choosing for her when she was too young to know what she's getting into, was a good decision.
But when he saw her at the Olympics, how hard she cried, how after scores she said she hated that sport, never wants to skate again, hates her team, that no one favours her... It broke his heart. It was even worse, when she didn't want to speak with him, when he was pale with worry. That was his little girl, asking him to let her do things like those pretty ladies on TV. Now she was doing even greater things than them, but was absolutely devastated, just because it wasn't the first place.
He had great disappointments in his career, missed out on Olympic gold two times, but even then didn't hate the game. Just hated that they weren't good enough. It was hard for him to understand why she reacted that hard, especially that she wouldn't speak with him, nor Leo. Just that she's okay, no need to worry about her, basic things.
And then, suddenly, he learns that she's changing everything, skating club, coaching team, federation, from TV. Not from her. She didn't even ask for advice, opinion, anything – this didn't hurt much, worse was the feeling that she didn't think like he should learn it from her. Instead he was watching news on a random day, and heard her name alongside with 'historic transfer, two time and current world champion in figure skating, decided to leave Russian Figure Skating Federation and switch to represent Italy in her next competitive season. Olympic medalist–' he kind of stopped listening after that. First was in shock, then reached for his phone to check this information and call her.
What he heard when he asked her about that? 'I decided it will be better for me'. Just that. No explanation why it's gonna be better for her and why now.
"How's the transfer going?" so he decided to ask her about it now, when they were sitting across from each other at the café. He started the topic softly, then he tried to get out of her why she did that. Not that he wasn't happy she's going to represent his nation, but he wanted to understand what was wrong in Russia.
What he probably should have noticed, but missed.
"I will have to wait twelve months since my last start, so since the Worlds. So I will miss the whole next season. But I get to keep all the rewards I got, and already get monthly benefit for the Olympic medals– well, it's called 'for the accomplishments'." she said, closing her hands around the warm cup of coffee. She got a big black coffee, not just a small espresso to drink at once, just in case she wants to buy herself some time to answer by drinking.
The last thing left a bitter taste on her tongue. She didn't need their money, even without competing in the next season, she still could do shows, had sponsors – which were willing to pay her more after the Olympics, despite, or maybe because of the drama, because every attention is good attention, right? – so lack of federation support wouldn't hit her hard.
On the other hand, they didn't want to let her go, and took so much from her, so she at least should have that.
She was still very conflicted about it, maybe she'll just give it away to some charity every month? So that money will at least bring something good?
She wouldn't even have it yet if not for the switch, because the monthly payment 'for accomplishments' is usually paid after retirement, when you don't get things like stipend for equipment and other stuff, but because she's switching and won't have any of those, was already granted that. Still surprising, she expected they'd take it away from her after 'treason'.
They don't have me as a competitor, but will forever have as an achievement.
"Harsh." her dad commented.
"Typical, I expected I won't be released earlier."
"So why did you decide on that? The whole season is much for you." he tried to have her answer.
And that was this moment when she raised a cup to her lips to think of an answer.
"In the end it's gonna be better for me." she smiled weakly, not saying anything more than what she already did.
"But why?" he reached out and grabbed her hand lightly. "I just want to understand. Much happened and I'm worried."
"Now?" she couldn't help it, words left her mouth before she could stop them. She cleared her throat, pretending she didn't say that. "I argued with Eteri. I won't be... swallowing my pride while apologizing for something I don't think I should. I won't bring her flowers and beg to keep working with me."
"You could change coaches without changing the whole skating federation."
"Can you stop pressing on me? I don't want to talk about it. Not yet." Amaliya finally answered sharply, showing clearly that she won't be answering any more questions about it. She'll decide when she'll open up about what she's been through. "As you can see, I'm okay. I'm healthy, I'm still training, working with a new team, I'll take part in shows. I'm happy. Isn't that the most important?"
"Always was." he sighed. Somehow her pushing back so much made him worry even more. But what could he do? She was no longer a little girl, he couldn't force her to anything. "I've got something for you." instead of pressing more, he reached to the small paperbag that was next to him on the couch.
Amaliya noticed it when she saw him before her club, guessing it's a gift for her, but didn't mention it. It seems she was right.
She took it from him and peeked inside. A soft, cautious smile appeared on her face, as she took out a box with perfume. Cherry perfume, one of the smells she loves the most.
"Thanks dad." she stood up and hugged him briefly over the table.
"Once more: Happy birthday, sweetie." he returned the smile, though there was a shade of sadness in it. "I know some things... could and should have been handled better." he said carefully. No more asking her, but admitting to his own failures. "I failed you."
"Many people failed me. You're not the first, nor the last." she shrugged, as if she didn't just say something very, very sad. As is she accepted, that she can never be carefree.
"Maybe I was the first." he tried to bring some joking tone to that, but failed miserably. "I agreed to put you in the skating, funded that–"
"It already happened. No need to speculate 'what if'." Ama interrupted him.
"It's hard not to think about it."
"You're only gonna have more grey hair from worrying." she teased, trying once more to turn the conversation away from uncomfortable topics. "I still have some things to do today. You needn't have come." it was a lie, she didn't have anything more to do, but didn't want to sit in uncomfortable silence. Or be forced to talk.
"I wanted to see you."
You already did – she wanted to say and get up without another word, but bit her tongue this time.
"It was nice to see you too. But... It was unexpected, If I knew I'd make time for it. Sorry." she finished her cup of coffee and rose from her seat. "Thank you once more. I will call."
She didn't even ask how long he was staying. Hugged him briefly again, and walked out of the café.
She couldn't help but behave like that. This was another time someone wanted to force her to talk, but this time she didn't feel like doing it. Not safe enough? Didn't have the strength to explain again? Held some grudge she didn't want to admit? Something else? Everything at once?
Calls were easier, nor he nor Leo saw her face, she could not answer without feeling their eyes on her. This was uncomfortable, she didn't want to talk, just... wanted peace. To get on the right path with her life, get healthy, continue with the sport she knows.
She saw that her dad was worried, of course she noticed. But it didn't obligate her to explain everything that makes her mind restless and heart heavy. She'll speak when she's ready. On her own terms, on the meeting she scheduled.
On the way home, after a few minutes of peaceful walk with nothing but sounds of the city, she took out her phone and opened a chat with her brother.
Besides asking why she suddenly ended the call and messages like 'I hit the spot?' or 'aww, my baby sis is in love?' came those:
Idiot.: I didn't even have occasion to ask will you come to a game (or games)???
Idiot.: For this weekend it may be a bit too late for an invitation, but the next one? 😗
Amaliya almost automatically typed that sure, she'll come, but just as she was to do it, the dates hit her. The weekend he's talking about is the same weekend as the Canadian Grand Prix she already agreed to come to.
She wanted to go and see her brother play, especially as it would be the first time she saw him play in the national team in person, but she also wanted to see Max.
Not to mention that she still didn't speak with her coaching team about that weekend off, though it shouldn't be a problem in her current situation.
Headache.: Maybe next next weekend? 😅 15-17?
Idiot.: 🤨🤨🤨
Idiot.: What's wrong with 8-10?
Headache.: I have tickets to theatre with Zhenya
Not that poor lie, it could be true, they were going out to theaters sometimes. Sometimes...
Idiot.: Okaaay, I'll get you tickets for 15-17
Idiot.: Tell me how it was & send a photo
Headache.: Life isn't a bowl of cherries.
Perfect. She will now have to tell Zhenya that she has to go to the theatre on the weekend, or they both have to go on something earlier and take a selfie she'll be able to send later. And pray she won't bump into any skating fan on the Grand Prix, no one who will post her online. Oh, and that no cameraman will have a genius idea of focusing on her.
Impossible. No need to pretend she will be in the theater at that time. She just... postponed a huge amount of questions that will flood her.
At least she'll be able to enjoy the weekend and worry about 'interrogations' later. It's the problem of the future her. Either way it can't be worse than after the Olympics, so who cares? One weekend to not have a care in the world is not much to ask for.
~
tag list: @anaylen01 @stup1dlysmart-human @cosmosnkaz
Sorry the next chapter is taking so long guys, but the temperatures are fck killing me (and computer) whole day (and night 🥴). I think "hey, let's write", sit, open next chapter, write a sentence and think about how damn hot I feel and can't focus on anything.
It's like having a fever, can't sleep, can't do anything, just exist 🥲 But following days temperatures should drop so I hope to come back to work.
heeeey, how are you? haven't heard from you in a while, everything good? hope the exams went well :)
Hiiii, I'm alright <3
I finish exams in the end of the next week 😔 Maybe something will air in between, as writing relaxes me, but I can't promise anything
Hi! I hope you are doing well with your exams and everything. I feel you, because in 5 days I have my own final exams, so thank you so much for this chapter. It helped me take my mind off things for a moment.
The chapter was amazing. It healed me a little bit after the last few harder chapters. I feel like this is the first time Ama actually has time for herself to figure out what she really likes, what she wants to do, and to sort out her future and her feelings. It's great to see her getting into a better relationship with her food, training, and just taking care of her health.
I also love how they just make each other relax and how safe and good they feel together. I really like their dynamic! I can't wait for the Canadian GP and, of course, to see how Max is going to help Ama with her driving 😂
She mentioned a few times that she wants to have a business in the future. What kind of brand do you think she will create? Will it be focused on fashion or maybe something skating-oriented?
Hope you are doing well and good luck with your exams too! 💜
Good luck to you too, then! We will get through that 🤞 I'm not gonna lie, it helps me to relax as well. I'm glad I could do something nice to you too!
Yeah, last chapters were harsh and this one is like a sun finally raising from behind clouds. It's a first time since long when Amaliya had time to herself, and surely one of first when she could just enjoy life without pressure and worries. It has much to do with her mentality slowly changing, taking care of her health & opening to someone outside the circle.
Ama is slowly moving from "relationship is a distraction" to "relationship is a support", and I don't mean relationship as ony romantical, as for now there is tension between them, but no one is pushing.
Oh my, Max teaching her how to drive... I can't wait for that as well 😂
About her brand: Ultimately, it's gonna expand with time. I could see her starting with stuff more skating related (clothes, accessories) and later growing to things more outside of sport, like everyday clothes or make–up (as she likes make–up and had/will have deals with such brands).
I'm doing great and hope you're as well! Thank you, have a nice day, and once more: Good luck! 💕
When he asked her about her signature, she simply said, "If someone's going to tattoo it on their skates or get a tattoo later, it has to look good." And it did, with all the precision she put into it.
Why do I feel like this will make Max practice her autographs?
Idk, I imagined them comparing their autographs and who can do more in a minute (I think we know the answer 🤣)
At least they had a reason to joke around; she even giggled. And they took some photos, mostly selfies, but also some individual ones. Like her covering her face while the wind blew her hair to the side (a photo that later appeared on her Instagram Stories). Or Max, with a completely grumpy expression, but with his thumb up.
If Max posts his photo, the internet gossips will find out
I think they're both aware, and from these two, Amaliya is the one to post much more from her private life. Yet she didn't post even a glimpse of him from this visit, so they both would rather it stay private. But well... People who recognise one of them (or both) take photos (like from the airport), so... 😆
Amaliya took a deep breath and mentally counted to five, as she was too impatient. She didn't need him to pay the bill as if it were a date. Even if it were, she would still have difficulty accepting someone paying for her – probably because it reminded her of her mother and how she treated her father. Like a wallet, basically.
For him, it wasn't a problem to pay to go out with her, even if it wasn't a romantic date. He suggested dinner; after all, he liked her a lot. He wanted to please her a little, do something nice. Girls usually like that, don't they? Don't they?
The communication breakdowns are becoming apparent
From her side, it's a mix of personality and what she saw growing up and doesn't want to be (her mother). Meanwhile, for Max, it's not a big deal, and he wants to just do something nice to her. If they're gonna build something in the future, they'll have to learn to work on that (though argues are obviously inevitable), but we will see 😌🤞
Max Verstappen x OC!fem!figureskater ~not much knowledge required, OC explains things to Max as he was never into figure skating, so you'll understand too <3
-> Chapter XVIII ''Clash''
-> Chapter XX ''Little big things''
-> This fanfic's masterlist
Chapter XIX ''Melt''
"What do you want?" Max asked her, as they drove over to the McDrive.
Already on the way Amaliya was thinking about what she actually wants, beyond just craving McDonald's. She used to eat it only off–season and even then hid it from her coaching team and felt guilty about eating junk food. Right now? It still wasn't healthy, but her dietician surely won't be mad she's eating.
It was dinner time and she felt her stomach wanting food, feeling she was learning to answer appropriately.
"Nuggets. And fries, and water." she said, pulling one leg up to sit more comfortably.
"Twenty nuggets, big fries and big cola zero. And a big mac set, also with cola zero." he said, and after a moment of thought added sauces and two McFlurry. Before Ama could protest, he already drove further, to the counter to pay.
"Twenty?! Even my brother wouldn't eat them all! And I said water! And didn't even mention ice–cream!"
"If you don't eat all I'll finish, you have water in your bag, and dessert is needed after a meal." Max shrugged, his smile growing as he saw her crossing her arms and have that annoyed expression, with her nose scrunching. "You have that face when you pretend something annoys you."
"It is annoying me." she answered. Max couldn't help himself and raised hand to bop her nose, but just before he could do so, she moved away. "What are you doing?"
"It's gonna stay like this forever if you don't stop with scrunching."
Ama looked at him pityingly and mocked him under her breath, all with no real bite.
Strange, that it was only their second meeting in real life, yet they seemed to be very casual with each other. The tension that gathered through the last months finally erupted and now it was that soft moment of relaxation.
She expected things to get worse after she told him the truth, that he'll no longer be that safe space where she doesn't have to think about her problems. But maybe he still can be that, just in a different sense. Knowing, supporting, calling out bullshit if needed.
She was also afraid that she'd feel like every move she makes is observed. Because of the hard past, especially the relationship with food. It made her a little scared to go eat together, but also determined to get through this. She was just glad that for the first time doing it, they took a take–out and stood in the parking lot to eat.
The last thing she feared was that Max may comment something about her eating or watch her closely. That would be embarrassing for her, and remind of all the times she was having a meal with dad or brother – of course it was a little different, because she never told them about her eating habits, and they didn't push on it even if they had their suspicions.
Every meal had her stressing she's acting strange and they will question her. She liked food, but didn't like additional training, living on water (or nothing) or rarely vomiting, when she had too much and it influenced her weight.
Okay, vomiting happened only once, she was still in juniors back then, position building but nothing sure. She overheard one girl being told that if she doesn't lose her 'additional' kilos in the next few days she'll be expelled, because it's a waste of time to train someone who's not willing to cooperate.
So she got desperate, when she saw too much on the scales after being out with her dad. She did the only thing that came to her mind and after coming home went straight to the toilet and forced herself to vomit everything.
And felt horrible after it. Tired, her whole throat burned, all the way down to the stomach. Water made it all feel even worse.
The only thing her mother did was come, knock at the doors and ask if she was alright. She didn't question her strained 'yes'.
Max didn't comment on anything, just made sure they have enough food for her to not leave hungry. Wasn't staring, pushing food meaningly towards her.
Actually, did the opposite, stole her fry.
So she stole his.
Atmosphere clearing even more, leaning more and more towards playfulness.
Until she wanted to see the bill.
"Where's the receipt?" she asked, still chewing half of the nugget.
"Why?"
"I will pay you back my half." she explained it as something obvious and extended her hand, expecting him to give her the receipt.
"But I'm stealing from you." he reached over and took a nugget from her package. She protectively moved it closer to her with the free hand.
"I'm serious. I want to pay you back."
"Don't be ridiculous, it's just McDonald's. I suggested going to eat and I pay."
Amaliya took a deep breath and counted just to five in her mind, because was too impatient. She didn't need him to pay for her as if it's a date. Even if it was, she still would have a hard time accepting someone paying for her – probably because it reminded her of her mother and how she treated her dad. Like a wallet basically.
She wasn't like her.
"But I want to pay for my part."
"It's not much." meanwhile for Max, it was absolutely normal and was amused by her reaction.
It wasn't a problem for him to pay for going out with her, even if it wasn't labeled as a date. He proposed food, besides, he really likes her. He wanted to treat her a bit, do something nice. Girls usually like this, right?
Right?
"Are you still in Toronto tomorrow?" she asked, retreating her hand finally.
"Yeah, my flight is early in the evening. Why?" he frowned.
"I'm free past 1 p.m., we're going out and I pay this time."
She can't be serious...But that also meant she wanted to see him again.
"It's just McDonald's and–"
"It will make me happy." she interrupted him, making a face that always worked on her dad. On Leo also, on Evgenia much more rarely, so probably was more effective on men. Max didn't have a choice. He didn't answer, just sighed, but it told her enough.
As Evgenia was already mentioned...
She texted Amaliya soon after that. She was supposed to come over tonight and wanted to know if she should bring something – and Ama completely forgot about that, first too emotional and now too caught in the moment and didn't want to change that.
As they drove from the parking lot, with plans for a short walk over the lake after eating, she discreetly unlocked her phone and quickly typed a message.
Ami 🎤: Don't come over
Ami 🎤: I'll explain later, promise
Zhenya 💅: 🤨🤨🤨
Those three same emojis that came were worse than if she wrote a whole paragraph. At least she'd know what's on her mind, which is impossible with those emojis. They could mean anything. And she'd learn what exactly, when she calls her when she's back home...
The only good thing was that she wasn't going to overthink it, as she had a great companion.
As they were over the Ontario lake, she wanted them to have a walk on the beach, but the wind was way too strong for that, even if she was used to the harsh climate. At least they had a reason to joke, she even chuckled. And they took some photos, mostly selfies, but also some solo.
Like her, covering her face while the wind just blows her hair straight to the side (that later appeared on her Instagram story).
Or Max, with a completely grumpy expression but a thumb up.
Overall it wasn't cold in Toronto, like... Seventeen degrees Celsius or something like that, and sun. But over the water and with wind... Yeah, they didn't stay there for long, and decided to take a walk somewhere less windy after all.
And later were untangling Amaliya's hair in the car.
"Ouch." she said again, when he brushed a bit too hard. "And you have sisters?"
"Never had to do this."
Then she made the biggest mistake. Started laughing and leaned forward in a moment when Max was brushing through, and the brush once more got painfully stuck in her hair.
"OUCH!" she screamed through laughter and her hand involuntarily moved to her head. Despite everything, the pain, she couldn't hold it in and pretend to be angry.
"I told you not to move!" Max gently grabbed her hand and pulled it away from her head. "Next time maybe tie your hair up, huh?" he focused on his task again, and to not pull her too hard while doing so.
"Leo would chase me with scissors." she said, now keeping her head in place. "Once he really just cut off my hair. When I had that little braid with synthetic hair. Instead of untangling it he did a much quicker thing: cut it off at the base, I almost had a bald spot."
Max already burst out laughing and had to stop brushing her hair for a moment, and when she showed him a photo with a strand of her just sticking out, he had to take a moment to compose himself.
When they were done with the hair situation, he drove her home. Amaliya almost forgot about her skating bag that was still on the backseats, when she was getting out. She completely forgot she even was at training today and how many bad things happened in the last months of her life.
It was so... freeing to just go and hang out with someone. And not go home by tram... But those hours were really nice, and she was already thinking about tomorrow and where they could go.
But before that, before she could get ready to bed and just wait for tomorrow...
"Finally! For a moment I thought I won't hear from you until the morning." Evgenia's voice filled the space, as Amaliya put a call on the speaker.
"You're overreacting."
"So... Am I finally getting a promised explanation?"
Amaliya rolled her eyes and took her boots off, bracing herself for the reaction her words will probably stir. Good that the phone wasn't just next to her ear, that could be dangerous for her eardrum.
"Max came."
"WHAT?!" she expected much, really, but not that. How often do you hear that a guy your friend was angry at, not speaking with, would randomly go to the other side of the world for her? "And?! Go on, tell me everything! Don't keep me dangling. Is he still in Toronto? Still with you? How did I miss him? Is that why I couldn't come over?!"
"You did not–!" Ama paused, her hand flying to her mouth and stayed there for a moment, as she tried to compose herself after that last sentence, carrying a hearable implication. As if her coming over would interrupt something...
On the walk to the bathroom, she felt warmth spreading over her cheeks, but only when she stood in front of the mirror, she saw how red they were. She washed her hands and patted cheeks a few times with still wet hands, as if that could help with anything. It obviously didn't, she still felt embarrassed about her friend's – partly joking – implication.
"Let me get this straight: He came? The guy you ignored for three months, he came to you?" luckily Evgenia focused on the other side of the situation after all. And when she said it like that... It made her realise how big thing it was.
"Not a full three months–" she pointed out, while reaching for the micellar water and cotton pads to take off the rest of the mascara, that was somehow still holding on to her eyelashes.
"He. Came." Zhenya said slowly, accenting both words. He flew across the world to speak with Ama, if that's not a big thing than what is? The only thing that could make it feel one hundred percent like a romantic movie, was if he showed up with a bouquet. "I'm so happy for you and so jealous at the same time." she admitted with a joking edge. "Do something! I told you he's after you, this is a proof!"
"You're stressing me out! I shouldn't have told you." Amaliya threw the used pads to the bin a bit harder than usually.
"It's great you told me. Now I can push you to do something about the guy you admitted to me, you like."
"Currently, I'm focusing on myself, alright? We both have much in front of us."
It wasn't an excuse, it was the truth... She never had time for relationships when she was in Russia, as skating took over her life. Now? She had to take care of herself, her health, and build strength, muscles. It meant her, just her, no other people.
"Sounds like an excuse."
Okay, maybe it was. She was always lonely, even when it seemed like there were many people around her. Other students at the skating club, with whom she never grew close to, as she was either focused on her own work or they came and left too quickly. Skaters she knew from competitions, but it was never a constant contact. Outside skating circle? Beside her brother's teammates from time to time? No one.
She couldn't even say how she feels about Max, she was never good at that, calling her emotions. Or just never felt like that and didn't know how to react.
"I never said I like him... like... that." she answered slowly, as if defending herself.
"And do you?"
"You're supposed to support me, not interrogate me." how could she answer when she didn't know? So she tried to turn the conversation away from that, even though she expected it's not going to work on Evgenia.
"How can I support you when I don't know in what I'm to do so?"
"But... I don't know. Honestly."
After that admission there was a shift in Zhenya's tone. No joking edge or teenage excitement, now more serious. A best friend who really wanted to help, the best she could.
"Don't pressure yourself. Mine dumped me just after the Olympics, remember? Wasn't my best choice I guess, but I really don't like being lonely."
Amaliya grimaced at that reminder even though Evgenia couldn't see it. As if the Olympics weren't bad enough for them, also that had happened to her friend. She regretted she couldn't help her get through it, but at that time she was too focused on her own misery to be able to do more than just cry with her and hug or over phone, if they couldn't meet.
"I know, I know... I actually prefer to be alone than with some people." Amaliya said it with her mother and people like her in her mind. She shook her head and pushed those thoughts away. It's not a time to be sad, she can't do that to herself, drown in misery again. "Anyway..." she cleared her throat on the way to the kitchen, to prepare some supper. "Max invited me to the Canadian Grand Prix. I guess I could come."
"Your dad is gonna have a heart attack when he sees you randomly on TV."
"Shit, I haven't thought about that..." she muttered, opening the fridge and looking through it, for what she has an appetite right now.
But yeah, her dad watches everything, he'll notice her immediately if she appears on the screen. Maybe not if it's somewhere in the background, between other people, and him looking to the other side...
And what if he does see her? The questions will come one after another.
"Maybe that weekend is also your brother's match and he'd not focus so much?" Zhenya suggested.
"When it comes to watching sports he is multitasking like no one else." Amaliya remembered how her dad was able to pay attention to what happens on the three screens at the same time. She could only be jealous of that level of awareness when it comes to watching "So maybe I won't go."
"No!" she heard and could swear there was also a noise of a cup put way too aggressively on the table. "If you want to, go. The worst that can happen is your dad asking you what you were doing there. You can say... Sponsorship deal or something? You enjoyed it last time and decided to attend another race weekend, as you have more free time now?"
Those suggestions weren't entirely stupid, and if she portrayed it in the right way, it could work. On the other hand, if she says she liked that, he may start talking about all the surnames and technicalities that meant nothing in her mind. He might have even been saying something about Max, which she doesn't remember now...
"Or I can just ignore him, I have experience in that." she joked, jogging her memory if he ever spoke about Max and – more importantly – what he said about him, if anything.
"And your dad would absolutely fly across the world as well, to confront you on your behaviour." Evgenia asked in the same tone, the atmosphere slowly lightening, step by step. "We drifted away again, tell me what happened, what were you two doing?"
"Well..."
She started, and as she was preparing her supper, said without too many details how she suddenly saw him before the club. Then very briefly how they explained the whole situation between each other, and everything was now back to normal between them. They went to eat – she left out the detail about him not letting her pay, because she knew Evgenia was not gonna be normal about it – and then went on a walk.
Oh, and that they are going out tomorrow as well.
And that meant she still had some time to plan where they will go.
That thought accompanied her to the end of the call, into the shower, through the skin care routine and to the bed.
She pulled cactus plushie to her chest and then pulled the duvet over herself, high up, almost to her neck. Laying on the side, with one phone in hand, she scrolled through map and places, as she didn't know the city enough yet. On the other tab she had a tourist guide open.
She stopped for a moment. Looked away from the phone, at the plushie against her chest, then at Johnny on the windowsill.
It's not about sightseeing, but being together. Of course, it would be nice to go to pretty places, but at the end of the day, it's about the time spent together, not where they do it. Like today. They didn't do anything crazy, yet it was very memorable for her.
She put the phone away and turned off the bedside lamp. No need to overthink anything. Wherever they go it's gonna be great, as she'll be there with him.
* * *
She could get used to it, getting a lift to the club. Especially that Max himself proposed that, as he had nothing better to do anyway. So she thought of taking him with her to the rink also. She didn't have much planned for today anyway, so it wouldn't be too long.
And luckily no one made it a problem, when she grabbed him by the arm and dragged after her.
Maybe the fact that she held a flower in the other hand also had some influence on that. Maybe people thought more than it really was.
The flower was a single, white and pink lily, which Max extended to her casually as soon as she got in the car, when he picked her up. Just a single one, not a bouquet, to not be overwhelming, to not put any pressure on her.
And lily, because a day before, on their walk, she casually mentioned how soon lilies will bloom and she can't wait, as she loves their smell.
So what's better than giving her the smell she loves earlier?
"Oh no– It's so pretty, thanks, but it's going to die, I don't have water for her right now."
That's how they ended up buying a water bottle from the drinks machine in the club.
And now Max was holding an open bottle with a flower in it.
The rink on which she trained here was different, as there were no boards. It looked like if you made a big gymnasium into a rink. Walls, on the other side entrances and benches or chairs to put on skates. There were also some mirrors on each side, so while skating you could see your movements and make corrections.
Also a viewing lounge, basically a café area, overlooking the rink from the upper floor.
As it was off–season – which meant less skaters and pressure – and it was a short session, as she was not allowed to do much yet, she could bring him to stay by the rink. In the area, where she was putting on skates, pulling by the laces much harder than he'd expected. She even had a small item, with a metal... hook? that she used to pull them even harder.
"It's loose at the top." he said, meaning how at the top, the tab, was not even touching her leg.
"It's supposed to be like that."
"Those are tighter." he leaned closer to her and said that, looking towards the girl also lacing up her skates.
"It's a different brand, the skates." she said and pointed to the heel of her skate. "These are Edea. Those are Jacksons." she pointed discreetly with her head to the girl. "They are built differently and tied differently."
When Amaliya was finished with tying, she pulled her leggings over the skate, hooking it at the heel so it won't roll up, and did the same with the other leg. She stood up, and took off blade guards, pushing them quickly into her bag.
"Don't look at them, they're dead, but I want fully purple ones and wait for them to be in stock." she explained her slight embarrassment at the state of her guards – half purple and half white ones. Luckily she didn't have to explain the skates, as they were still looking good – only because she changed boots just before the Worlds, and didn't have occasion to destroy them too much since then.
Before she put them on she warmed–up briefly by the rink, and now continued on the ice. Even if it was just skating around at first, forward and backwards, you could already feel how effortless it was.
It was surely better than watching on TV, actually seeing how much focus you had to put into it – a bit similar to the on board cameras, and when you realise how many buttons and switches there are on the steering wheel.
And the sounds, those were also not so good hearable through TV, and were quite a satisfying sound. Especially when... em... she hit deep edges? Surely when she spinned, that was a good sound.
Watching back, at the videos of her trainings he saw and what he was witnessing now, there was a huge difference. First of all, she wasn't doing any jumps, as she said she's not allowed to do them due to her right leg's state. He obviously didn't understand the technique, but could tell she was holding back. Her movements were more careful at some moments, also a bit stiff sometimes, which made him wonder if it pained her to do some moves.
Seeing it, made her words about being underweighted, injured, and through that unsure of the future hit harder. It was part of the healing process, taking things easy, but clearly strained her. Not even two full months ago she was the brightest star at the World Championships, and now? Limits, hesitation and vulnerability.
Especially hard when someone else was doing things that used to be easy for you, and you can only look at it and wish you could do it too.
Amaliya knew she was exposing herself by bringing him here, but could she really do anything to hit him harder than with her confessions? Probably, more confessions, but this? Skating right now? It was healing, it's a process. That was she was reminding herself every time she felt weak and questioned doctors' decisions. She had to go through it to not be forced into retirement before even hitting twenty. Her future self is gonna thank her for that, right?
Right?
At least she could still spin, especially if it was on the left leg.
Okay, she thought of taking advantage of the fact that her left one is in much better condition and trying to do a jump clockwise, so the landing is gonna be on the left leg – and so she could show off at least a little bit... But forced herself to not do that. No additional risk of falling, no unnecessary pressure. The thought of bringing him here came with a feeling that he can be a support she needs. Not to show off. He saw her performances, she has nothing to prove.
When she was done with her session, she skated over, sat on the same chair as before and started taking off her skates. First she took both boots off and reached to the bag for a wiper, to wipe the blades dry. She picked up one skate and started to do that. Max picked up the other one, wanting to help, before he realised that there is no other wiper and felt a bit dumb.
But there were also two things that surprised him: First, the weight. It was heavier than he had expected while reaching for it. Second: the stiffness, the boot didn't bend at all when he grabbed. She once told him they are much tougher than he thinks and he jokingly bet that. Right now he could say she wasn't exaggerating at all.
"What?" she asked, pulling dark purple soft guards over the blade, as she noticed how he looked at the skate.
"Quite stiff." he answered, handing her the skate.
"Well, they have to protect my ankle." she shrugged and took the skate. "But you don't start with those, this is the stiffest model available." she chuckled.
"And that soft thing?" he pointed at the guard.
"They will absorb any water that I missed to wipe. I mostly keep them in those. Hard guards are only for walking around."
After her training, they stopped for a moment under her building, so she could take the lily home and put it in a vase, not a bottle of water. Also so she could change from her training clothes, the plum coloured set she once sent him a photo of. She changed into something casual, jeans, t–shirt and a leather jacket, as Max was also dressed just comfortably.
First place where they went was Yorkville, where she dragged him into a café because 'it looks so pretty'. They sat there and ordered something sweet, with Max complaining about how he doesn't like coffee... meanwhile Amaliya took espresso. Something he would never understand. While he took juice, she was enjoying, really enjoying the smell of that strong coffee.
Well, there was something Italian in her after all.
"I could get used to it, a chaffeur. Would be better than fighting with public transport and someone approaching me almost every time I go somewhere. Though I won't pay you as much as you get in F1." she said, looking down at the slice of cake in front of her reminding herself that she doesn't have to feel guilty for eating it.
"You don't go by car?" Max asked, frowning. Yeah, he had picked her up and she hadn't mentioned a car... but he could swear she mentioned on their walk yesterday, that among other things, she got a car for her Olympic results.
"Well... I don't have a driving license, so no." she admitted, suddenly feeling shy about it.
"So what's with the car you got?"
"Oh, I gave it to my brother. He loves cars, he's taking care of it. If I ever want it back he'll give it, no problems." she waved it off, as if she didn't notice the surprise painted on his face.
"And what car is it, by the way?" he asked, trying to sound casual after being shocked, and took a bite of his own slice of cake.
"Black." Ama answered with full confidence, as if it was the answer he was expecting. When he theatrically put the dessert fork down, she frowned. "What?"
"But... What kind?"
Oh... Yeah, he was a professional driver, knew pretty much about cars... And then there was she, who only saw differences in colour and shape, and numbers that didn't tell her much – and she never was interested in it, as she doesn't drive.
"SUV." she added, with not so much confidence, as she wasn't sure in one hundred percent.
"A brand? Model?" hearing that question, she slowly shook her head. "You don't remember?" he wasn't mocking her, but clearly amused, holding back a chuckle.
"I'd have to check... Or put you on the call with Leo, because I really have no idea." she herself chuckled, seeing how he tries not to, and eventually they both were laughing. "I don't have a license, I have no reason to be interested!"
"I can show you if you want." he offered, and that made her freeze for a moment.
No. No no no, her dad tried to, but she already felt judged by him. The last thing she needs is to see his face, when she's killing a car. He's gonna judge her even worse than dad, as driving is his job. No, she's not that desperate to learn. After a second thought, she's okay with public transport. No need to care about parking.
"No, no need, I will be doing the course soon." she lied, hoping he won't dwell on the topic.
"If you change your mind, my offer is still on." he smiled softly, already thinking that he'll ask her in some time how is her 'driving course' doing, and see what she's gonna say. Because that sounds like a lie he'd love to confront her later.
After their stop at café, they continued their walk, stepping into small boutiques and an atmospheric bookshop – where they have spent a ridiculous amount of time, considering that Max isn't a fan of books. But as she walked between shelves, he followed her. When she pointed at the book she couldn't reach, he got it for her. When she saw one with pretty illustrations and motioned for him to have a look, he did. Without a single complaint.
Yorkville Village mall was next on the way. Despite it being a shopping mall, it was rather small and artsy, as it wanted to be something like a culture house. With a semi–private climate, but someone still approached them, or rather Amaliya, and asked for an autograph.
That was a nice, but at the same time a bit strange feeling, being overlooked. He could expect that, as figure skating was more popular in Canada than F1, especially shortly after the Olympics, and when it came to someone on top of their sport. He notoriously forgets beside past achievements she's also a current world champion. Pretty recognizable in her circle.
Every time she signed something, he couldn't help but at that. Her signature was very neat, polished. Whole name and surname, and a little heart. With a stroke with which she did the horizontal line in 'A', she also did a tail of 'y', which was 'S' at the same time...
When he asked her about her signature, she simply said: 'If someone is going to have that on their skates or tattoo it later, it has to be pretty'. And it was, with all the precision she put in it.
After a quick visit in a vintage fashion shop and laughing at some garments, and a walk through an art gallery – with abstract art none of them could interpret, but discussed very seriously, with low voices, standing close to each other – she got him to enter a shop with skin care products. Mostly to tease him a little, and point toward a strong anti–aging cream with words 'you could use one of those'.
For dinner, they went to that Italian restaurant she mentioned a day before. And to make sure he lets her pay, at one moment she went to the restroom, and on the way back paid.
She learned he really likes Italian cuisine, but was totally offended at the dislike of seafood.
"No. No no no, it's the end of this friendship, I can't do this. It's an offence. How can you not like seafood, but like tomato juice?" after saying tomato juice, she grimaced and stuck her tongue out.
"But I kind of like sushi. So... maybe give this friendship one more chance?" Max joked.
"You'd try not to like it. It's..." she made that italian gesture with her hand. "It's the best thing out th– No. There is something better." she stopped for a moment, adjusting on the chair, so she could lean closer over the table. "When my mother was travelling more with my dad, when he was still playing, they made friends with some Polish people. Anyway, the point is that she learned how to make the best dish ever from them. Pierogies."
Max frowned, trying to remember if he had ever had an occasion to try those. Then he slowly shook his head.
"I don't think I have ever eaten those."
"I have to do them one day for us then! They make them for Christmas and if my mother made them, it was usually around that time of the year, but it doesn't matter. They are delicious, you have to try."
"Alright alright. I will never say no when someone wants to cook for me." he didn't argue with her, actually quite interested in trying what she spoke about, especially after she showed him a few photos of it on her phone.
"I love cooking. Cleaning is worse, but the process of doing it is sometimes a rollercoaster of emotions, I love it."
After the dinner, they still had some time left, and went to the Harbourfront Centre, or more precisely took a walk on the promenade over the lake. Despite an open space and more people there, it was a perfect place for quiet conversations. They walked slowly next to each other, close enough that their hands brushed each other from time to time – or rather elbows, when later they put hands in the pockets.
The sun was shining, but over water wind was much stronger than in the city. Amaliya squinted, as it hit her face and braced, feeling it going under her jacket.
"Zip it up." she was going to do that herself, but Max said that and already grabbed one side of her jacket, stopping her and turning to him. He quickly zipped it, up to her neck and adjusted the collar.
"Okay, dad." she pouted, suddenly feeling like a little girl again, who needed help with such things.
"Haha, very funny." he said sarcastically, but couldn't stop a smile, as her pout got even bigger. He pulled her braid – she learned from the last time – from under the jacket and let it fall on her chest.
"It is, you're old." Ama said with fake seriousness, as they walked again.
"We're not even two full years apart."
"You have two in front, that's old. Sorry. You're gonna need that cream." she took hand out of the pocket to pat him on the shoulder, but in the end her hand stayed there a little longer.
Then it slid down his arm, and in the end they continued their walk with their elbows hooked together, hands in the pockets of their jackets. She feared it might be too intimate, but didn't feel bad with that gesture. Max also didn't pull away, so she didn't comment on that. It just... Happened, and they both seemed to accept that.
Made it easier to pull each other to the sides.
No need for words or deep conversations. It was perfect as it was, walking close, with a beautiful sight on the lake. Something so simple, but Amaliya never thought she'd get to enjoy it. No pressure at the back of her mind, no worries of future, for that moment she got to be just a teenage girl enjoying time with a guy she liked. A guy she was ready to risk losing, because she was too embarrassed to text back. And he flew across the world for her, to resolve that thing between them. Spent the whole day with her and not once complained about anything – besides the parking and traffic lights.
It made her feel sad, that she didn't know when could be the next time they get to spend a day together like that, with no pressure, just having fun and exploring the city – and each other even more.
She's embarrassed to admit that, but at the airport she had to hold back tears. He proposed to drive her home and go to the airport alone, but she refused. Wanted to spend as much time together as they could. And he seemed to like that decision of hers as well.
"You got everything?" she asked once more, looking at the backpack that would surely be way too small for her to pack for even two days.
"Yes." he took it off his arm, at which she frowned. But Max thinks he will show her something, as she's asking for it for the third time. "Even that little guy." he opened backpack and showed her the little lion plushie she gave him.
"You took him with you?" she brought hands up to her face.
"He flies everywhere with me." he closed the backpack and threw it back over his shoulder. "He's a lovely company."
"I hope I was too, despite... you know."
"Don't worry. I'm proud of you." he repeated what he said back then and again, really meant it. "You can speak with me about everything and it stays between us."
"You also can." after those words there was a silence between them, as no one knew what to say. They never had to say goodbyes like that yet. "I may come to the Canadian Grand Prix." she said to fill the silence. Maybe it was a bit impulsive choice, as right now it was hard to accept being apart, but possibly she needed that impulse to make a final decision.
"See you there, then." his smile softened. "I'll get you tickets."
She shoved her hands in her pockets. In the pockets, in which she now had those damn condoms from the Olympics, that she jokingly promised to bring. They were in her bag since she was in her apartment to change and leave the lily. She wanted to leap at the opportunity to give him it, as they saw each other, but was suddenly very shy about it. What if he reads more from this than there is...
After a dozen long seconds standing like that, Max slowly leaned over and hugged her, giving her time to pull away if she wanted.
She didn't. Of course she was surprised and a little stiff at first, but eventually melted into his embrace. At first she didn't know where to put her hands – especially that in the right one she had the three condoms grabbed, as she wanted to use this situation to sneakily put them in his jacket's pocket – but in the end put them over his back and rested her head against his chest, closing eyes.
It wasn't the same as the hugs she has received or given in her life before, even though she hugged guys before. Her heart was beating faster and she didn't know what to call that warmth spreading in her chest.
Safety.
That would be a good word.
In his presence, in that embrace, she could let her guard down and just relax. Warmth of his body around her, one hand loosely on her waist – and partly small of her back – and the other on her back, rubbing it softly.
She almost forgot to push those fucking condoms into his pocket.
"See you in June." he moved away first, still with that soft smile on his lips, that made her smile as well.
"Text or call when you land."
"Oh, you'll pick up?" he teased.
"Go. Go already." Ama pushed him, pretending to be annoyed.
But stood there until she couldn't see him anymore – or either until he reached into his pocket and felt the condoms in there. That made her quickly turn on her heel and walk away.
@ username
*A zoomed in photo of Amaliya and Max hugging, faces not visible.*
Just saw Amaliya Svetlanova hugging at the airport with some guy 🥹 Before anyone asks: NO, it was NOT her brother!!! I had to go to my flight and didn't get to capture his face, but is Ama hiding something(someone)? 👀 Wishing her all the best, she deserves that 💙
– how can you wish her all the best and post about her private life? 😭
⤷ Come on, it's just a photo & she's a public person
⤷ public when it comes to skating. It's literally off–season and her PRIVATE life.
⤷ It's obvious fans follow people. If you don't like that, don't be famous
⤷ you're literally normalizing violation of privacy 💀
– Traitor.
⤷ Don't worry, she'll go back to Tutberidze when effects won't be the same 😌 But I wouldn't take her back if I was her...
⤷ Just a reminder that Orser also trained Olympic champions, without starving them
⤷ It's a rumour 🙄 They're just skinny
– woah, so many bitter fake fans in the comments...
⤷ she owes Russia everything. Popularity, money, skills, medals. And betrayed her country because she couldn't deliver when it mattered most, and blamed coaching team on that
⤷ Hot take: this country betrayed her first. Go cry about it 😝
– Could it be the same guy she spoke with on video chat at the Olympics?
⤷ makes me wonder how long they know each other
⤷ you all REALLY need a life.
– Omg, so sweet 😭💕 She deserves all the best after Olympics, my poor baby
⤷ the guy better treat her well, or we will find him 🤪
⤷ she should focus on skating, not boys
– sometimes I forget she's no longer a little girl doing crazy things on the ice... Time flies like crazy
⤷ don't remind me, makes me realise one day she'll retire...
⤷ TAKE THAT BACK, SHE'LL SKATE FOREVER (leave me in my delusion)
– where are internet detectives??? we need you! who is that guy?!
⤷ on my way to stay up late to find out 😎
⤷ oooor maybe wait until she's ready to share with the world that she has someone?
⤷ Why are we even assuming it's her boyfriend? She hugs with many guys, Yuzu, Nathan, Javier, Shoma, guys from her brother's team, and more
⤷ and there are people who ship her with all of them 🤣
⤷ too much internet for today...
~Author's note~
If anyone's wondering, that's how I imagine Ama's autograph:
Heyo! Do you have an updating schedule? Or is it more just when there’s motivation?
Much love from an anon that fell for the ice skating story
Hi! I wish I had 🥲😂 I write when I have motivation – or rather time, when it comes to this story.
I would very much love to sit the whole day and just expand this story, but private life drags me away sometimes. University mostly 🥹 Exam session is starting... well, basically now, so I have less time to write...
I want my chapters to be at least 3k words, so... you know, you & I are not left with a feeling that nothing happened and it passed too quickly 😂 (Most often, I get to at least 5k anyway). Anyway, with chapters being long, it takes me more time to write them, but I think it's better that short one every day or two, and be left with "that's all?"
Despite any situations in my life, I want to update at least once a week. It's probably not gonna work always, but I'll try! <3 I love this story and what's going to happen, and can't wait to share it with you all!
I feel so happy seeing how many of you got invested in Max&Ama story (here, on Ao3 and Wattpad), it means the world to me and motivates me <3
