SUMMARY 𐙚 Danny seeks out a new tattoo artist: You! He keeps finding excuses to come visit you, and it’s obvious.
WARNINGS 𐙚 Fluff, suggestive jokes, partially written but primarily a smau
A/N 𐙚 Hi guys! Thank you sm for all the support :)
DIRECTORY | MASTERLIST | REQUESTS: OPEN
yourusername
📍 Tattoo Parlor
liked by friend1, friend2, danielricciardo, and 1.2K others
yourusername Finishing up work in the shop :) Made lots of progress today 🤘
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user1 Baddie
friend1 💍??
user2 She’s so pretty
user3 I’ve been here and the service is great 😍
yourusername Happy to be of service!
user4 Do you do piercings?
yourusername Our shop does, yes! I don’t do them myself though
→ user4 Great tysm!
user5 Five day drive. Should I go?
yourusername Absolutely 🔥
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danielricciardo
🎵 De La Soul • The Magic Number
liked by yourusername, lando, and 302K others
danielricciardo I got great service and a new tattoo 🔥
tagged tattoo.parlor, yourusername
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user1 This is so cute 🥹
user2 Ahh another tattoo to the collection!!
user3 OMG I’ve been there, my favorite artist is Y/N they’re soo sweet
yourusername That’s me!! Hope you’re healing up okay :)
user4 This is so fire
lando You know what’s even funnier than 3
danielricciardo 4!!!
user5 I miss him everyday
user6 So real
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For about the fourth time this week you found yourself looking up upon the chime of the door’s bell, only to see Danny wandering back into the shop. Your client gasped, trying to hold deathly still despite the excitement of witnessing a Formula One driver right in front of him. You pulled the tattoo gun away, sitting back in your chair.
“Welcome in, Danny,” You called out nonchalantly. Your client pushed themself up onto their forearms, hissing as their back scrunched up, applying a sting to the fresh tattoo. “I’ll be with you in just a sec.”
“Nah, take your time.” He sat himself in one of the lobby chairs, getting a few rather obvious stares from other clients who were waiting. You quickly finished up the piece you were working on, checked out your client, and then approached your newfound friend.
“What’re you in for this time?” You crossed your arms over your chest, giving him a pointed expression. Danny held his hands up, playing the role of innocent. “Oh, please.”
“Hey, is it a crime to visit a friend?”
“When they’re working, yeah.”
“Hey— I’m paying you!” You both laughed. Other patrons eyed you both, unsure of what to make of the interaction. It was weird to see some local artist such as yourself talking to a hit celebrity like Daniel Ricciardo.
“Seriously though, what do you want? Another touch up? Something new?” You walked away to take your gloves off, applying hand sanitizer afterwards. It was important to keep the place clean and hygienic. People already trusted you with their skin, letting you apply something permanent. It would be rude if you got them sick while you were at it.
He trailed after you like a lost animal, leaning up against the counter next to you. He’d been there about six times now, and he was already acting like you owned the place. Of course, you didn’t mind, but it was always entertaining to watch someone become so familiar with your little shop.
“Nah,” He looked around like he was stalling for time, huffing a sigh. You raised your brow and tilted your head. “I just wanted to know if you’d accompany me on a date. Nothing too fancy.”
You raised your brows with amusement, a little smile decorating your lips. The same lips he had been nonstop staring at, because they were so plump and pretty and he just wanted to steal a kiss away from you immediately. “Yeah?” Oh and that voice of yours. Smooth like honey, and absolutely beautiful. “What if I want fancy?”
“Then you’ll get fancy,” Danny replied as if he was willing to give you anything you wanted. It was instantaneous. He didn’t even need to think about it.
“No,” You lightly smacked his chest. “I’d love to go on a date with you, but you’re right. Fancy’s not my thing.” He grinned. You could tell he had managed to keep his cool, but you could also sense the relief flooding him at your positive response. As if you’d say no. “7pm Saturday. Don’t be late.”
He didn’t even get to reply before you were leading another client back to the chair. He watched you walk away, stunned by your confidence. He watched knowing that he picked the right person…
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yourusername
🎵 Eagles • Hotel California - 2013 Remaster
liked by danielricciardo, lando, friend1, and 12.3K others
yourusername Don’t be jealous but 💋
tagged danielricciardo
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user1 We used to pray for times like these
user2 Hottest couple ever
danielricciardo 🤤🤤🤤
yourusername Who are you drooling over? 🤨
→ danielricciardo Uhhh… you ofc!! 😥
ー→ yourusername Good boy 😏
ーー→ lando EWWW
lando I’m so jealous of you 😖
yourusername We can share him
→ user3 They’re so funny I love them
user4 Gorgeous beautiful radiant princess… Oh and Y/N too
yourusername I get it. He’s such a princess
danielricciardo Come over here and kiss me on my hot mouth
Plot: Daniel had always dreamed of the day seeing his wife in a pretty wedding dress, but not for the reasons most would think.
Warnings: eating out, oral (fem receiving), 18+ minors dni
Here you were walking down the isle in your large white wedding dress looking down where your husband stood with his best man and fellow groomsmen. He hadn't noticed you yet where he was talking to his best man Lando. Max, one of his groomsmen nudged him, shurgging his head over to you. His eyes met yours just as the music started playing for you to walk down the isle too.
Tears brim his eyes, he'd always seen you as the most beautiful girl in the world, but today you were etheral and he wanted to burn this image of you into his mind and keep it there forever.
You make your way down the isle, holding your dad's arm who also has tears in his eyes. All thats on your face is a huge grin, excited to be Mrs Ricciardo after this. You loved Daniel with all your heart and being able to share a last name with him was special to you.
"You're the only man i trust with her Daniel, i hope you know that. Look after my baby" you father says, before placing a kiss on the side of your head. Daniel smiles at your father a solid not to him.
"Always sir" Daniel says, before glancing over you seeing just how magnetic you looked up close.
You guys shared your vows, you had both done very meaningful vows for your actual wedding that you'd more than likely repreat in 10 years, then 20 and 30. You would save the laughter for at the after party where the maid of honor and best man, and some family members would to also say some words for the pair of you.
"You may now kiss the bride" the officiator says and you shake your head.
"Nope, i may now kiss the groom!" you grin and cup Daniels face pulling him down and in for a kiss. It's lasts for a while until you feel Daniel's grin widen.
"Nope, i'll listen to him" Daniel grins, pulling away and dipping you into the typical bride kiss. Your both giggling against one another as you do, the crowd below cheering and whooping.
"Come with me" he whispers in your ear, gripping your hand.
"Alright folks, if you all head into the barn i'm going to get Mrs Riccardo into something a little more ... breathable and then we'll see you out for the after party!" he grins, before taking your hand and walking you away. Everyone starts to leave while Daniel walks you into the chalet you guys had rented.
Before you know it, the minute you guys get into the home you were hoisted up onto the nearest counter, your large puffy dress bunching up around your hips. Your in fits of giggles as Daniel tries to work out how to step in between your legs but is sort of restricted.
"Daniel what are you doing!" you laugh looking at him.
"Need you so bad, wanna fuck you for the first time as my wife" he grins with that cheeky look in his eyes.
"What?" you burst out laughing.
"Please, need you" he groand trying to bunch up your dress around you.
"We dont have time!" you laugh, holding him at bay by his chest.
"Just, just a quick little taste. I'll be so quick" he says, sliding his hands down before getting on his knees.
"Daniel!" you gasp at the crudeness. But before you know it he's under all layers of your dress, teasing a finger up your thigh touching the garter of your white lingerie. He plays with the fabric before flicking it against your skin making you gasp. You feel his nose, and the bump run up along the silk covering you.
"Danny" you gasp, moving your hips forward and wrapping your legs around him, resting them on his back and shoulders.
He doesn't say a word, not that you'd hear it muffled under the ruffles and multiple layers of your dress, but you feel your panties pulled to the side and his wet tongue tease you.
His nose gives the perfect amount of pressure on your clit a moan coming from you. You would normally have a hand pulling at the curls of the hair, but with no access to it they gripped the edge of the counter.
"Oh fuck, please" you moan feeling the way he's moving against you stimulating every place that possibly needs it. You can feel his nose pressing agaisnt you. Your hips jut against his face and your can finally hear some slurps that he's making as you rock agaisnt his face.
You feel the coil build in your stomach as Daniel's licks are relentless against you.
"Omg please please please" you cry out your knuckles white from the grip on the table. Daniel's finger enters, his tounge moving to play with your clit, gasps coming from you and your head drops back.
He reaches a certain part of your spongey walls that makes your lurch forward grabbing his head through your dress with as gasp as your legs tighten round his head and start to shake.
"Omg" you gasp as he helps you through your orgasm. He ruffles up, finding his way out of the big puffy dress and the sight before you once his head pops up is one you would be happy getting all to familiar with.
He was there, your juices covering his chin and his curls messier, face flushed red from the heat.
"Been waiting to do that for years" he sighs, leaning his head against your thigh.
"Years? You've been dreaming of marrying me for years for the sole purpose of what? Eating me out in my wedding dress?" you laugh out loud looking down at him.
"Right, lets get you out this dress now" he says, avoiding the question while helping you up despite the wobbly legs and heels combo that isnt helping. You couldn't help but giggle as he carries you up the stairs to the master bedroom where your body-con white dress was laid out by your maid of honor.
Daniel helps you take off the dress and just looks at you in your underwear.
"Gods, i cant believe this is what i get to see for the rest of my life" he says, running his hands along your waist. He helps you get into the dress despite his wish to ravish you on the bed behind the pair of you, but knows that people are waiting to celebrate the newly weds.
"Every day" you grin holding the side of his face before he pulls you into a kiss.
Summary: Y/n is a talented F1 reporter who’s all about the banter with Daniel Ricciardo. Everyone knows they flirt like crazy, but it’s all fun and games—except it's not.
Pairing: Daniel Ricciardo x F1Reporter!Reader
Word count: 10.704
A/N: I love him. This is it, that's the note so with that being said please do enjoy this fluff. I'll try to keep up the frequent posting to spoil you babies.
Plot: Workplace romance / He fell first, she fell harder
Song Recommendation: Love Again by Dua Lipa
MASTERLIST | MY PATREON
The midday sun cast long shadows over the narrow streets of Monte Carlo, the hum of engines mixing with the buzz of the crowd. Daniel Ricciardo moved through the paddock like he owned the place, his signature grin firmly in place, sunglasses shielding his eyes from the glare. There was something about race weekends that always put him in a good mood, but today, his mood had an extra kick.
His eyes locked onto her—Y/n Y/L/n—standing just a few meters away, engaged in animated conversation with a McLaren engineer. She was as captivating as always, dressed in her professional paddock attire, with just the right amount of casual flair to remind everyone she was cool under pressure. The sun glinted off her hair, tied back in a ponytail, and the way she tilted her head when she listened made it clear she was genuinely interested in the conversation, even if her sharp tongue was probably poised to strike with a sarcastic jab at any moment. He moved in closer, deliberately catching her in his peripheral vision, waiting for the perfect moment to drop a line. Timing was everything with Y/n. She was sharp, quick on her feet, and if he didn’t bring his A-game, she’d have him backpedaling faster than he could hit the brakes at the Nouvelle Chicane.
Just as she finished laughing at something the engineer said, Daniel made his move, sliding up beside her with his trademark cheeky grin. “Careful, Y/n, if you keep making them laugh like that, I’ll lose my spot as the funniest guy in the paddock.”
Without missing a beat, Y/n turned to him, eyebrow raised, her lips curving into a smirk. “Daniel, darling, I’m not here for your job security. But if you need tips, you know where to find me.” He let out a soft chuckle, tipping his head toward her in playful acknowledgment. “Tips from you? I think I’d end up being more sarcastic than funny.”
She shrugged nonchalantly, eyes twinkling behind her sunglasses. “Hey, if it works for me, it might just save your career.” Daniel grinned wider, savoring their playful banter. This was their usual rhythm—effortless, sharp, and always fun. He leaned in just slightly, enough to drop his voice so only she could hear. “You know, Y/n, if I didn’t know better, I’d think you were flirting with me.”
Y/n chuckled, that mischievous glint in her eyes unmistakable. “Oh, Daniel, sweetheart, you wouldn’t survive me flirting with you. Consider this... friendly fire.”
That laugh. It always hit him differently, and the way she could turn a phrase left him wondering if she was ever serious or just constantly toying with him. Either way, he was hooked. “Friendly fire, huh?” He shot her a wink. “Guess I’ll have to try harder next time.”
Her gaze softened just slightly, as if giving him an inch. “Good luck with that,” she said, turning back to the engineer. But as she did, she let her fingers brush lightly against his arm—just enough for him to feel the heat of her touch. Daniel’s grin faltered for just a second as she walked away, but he quickly recovered, watching her go with a shake of his head. “Game on, Y/n. Game on,” he muttered to himself, already looking forward to the next round.
The post-race energy was thick in the air as Y/n stood next to her cameraman, reviewing her notes. The Monaco GP always left the paddock buzzing, and the post-race interviews were as chaotic as they were crucial. She had just wrapped up a quick, lighthearted chat with Yuki Tsunoda, who, despite his small frame, was practically bouncing from the adrenaline of the race. “Thanks, Yuki! Good luck next race!” Y/n called after him, smiling as he gave her a thumbs-up and jogged off.
“Alright, who’s next?” she asked, glancing at the list, though she already knew the answer. “Daniel,” her cameraman confirmed, with a smirk that matched her own.
Ah, Daniel Ricciardo. Of course it was him. There was always a certain... atmosphere whenever he showed up for these interviews—an unspoken game neither of them ever acknowledged but everyone loved watching. The fans had started calling it the Ricciardo-Y/n show, and Y/n couldn’t even be mad about it. It was fun, and the chemistry? Well, it was undeniable. Even she could feel it sometimes, though she never let it show too much. She turned just as Daniel approached, still looking remarkably fresh despite the grueling race. His suit was unzipped, his helmet long gone, and the familiar smirk was already creeping across his face before he even reached her.
“Well, well, well... Look who survived Monaco,” she teased, microphone ready but already anticipating his comeback. Daniel put a hand to his chest, as if her words wounded him. “Ouch, Y/n. That’s how you’re gonna start this? No ‘Congratulations, Daniel, you’re amazing,’ just straight to survival mode?”
Y/n shrugged, smiling innocently. “Hey, you haven’t impressed me that much today.” Daniel’s grin widened, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Really? So what’s it gonna take to impress you, huh?” The question hung in the air for a beat, and Y/n’s cameraman gave a subtle chuckle off to the side, fully aware of the chemistry sizzling between them.
“Hmm…” Y/n pretended to think, tilting her head to the side. “Maybe if you won the race instead of finishing… where was it again?” Daniel’s hand flew to his heart again, and he staggered back in mock pain. “Seventh, Y/n. I survived and I got seventh. At least give me points for that!” She couldn’t help but laugh at his dramatic performance, shaking her head. “Alright, alright, you get points. But only because you’re making this interview entertaining.”
“Oh, so that’s all I’m good for? Entertainment?” Daniel teased, leaning in just slightly, his eyes flicking to the camera for a moment before locking back onto hers.
Y/n arched a brow, leaning in as well, almost daring him to break the tension. “I don’t know, Daniel. Maybe you’re good for more than just entertainment. What do you think?” For a split second, the banter froze in the air between them, and Y/n could feel the electric current crackle. Her heart skipped a beat, and she wasn’t entirely sure if it was from the heat of the day or the intensity in his gaze. Daniel, ever the master of playful charm, let the tension linger before stepping back with a grin. “Guess I’ll have to stick around and find out, huh?”
Her cameraman coughed, clearly stifling a laugh. The entire paddock seemed to hold its breath, as if expecting something more to happen between them right there on camera. Y/n rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the smile creeping onto her face. “You really are something, Ricciardo.”
“And you love it,” he fired back, that smug grin never wavering. Y/n couldn’t argue with that—he was something, alright. She pressed on with the interview, professional but still teasing as always. “So, seventh place today—how was the race from your perspective? Think you could’ve pushed for a podium, or was the strategy just not there?”
Daniel shifted into race mode, but his energy was still playful. “Oh, you know, the car felt great, but Monaco’s Monaco. If you’re not upfront from the start, you’re playing catch-up all day. But seventh’s not bad for a day’s work.” She nodded, keeping her questions sharp, but still slipping in the occasional dig, knowing full well Daniel would throw it right back.
As they wrapped up, Y/n smiled at him, lowering the mic. “Always a pleasure, Ricciardo. Thanks for the chat.”
“Anytime, Y/n.” He lingered for a moment longer than necessary, his eyes flicking down to the microphone and back to hers. “You know, if you ever need tips on how to survive a race... or the paddock, just call me.” She shot him a look, one filled with challenge and amusement. “Oh, don’t worry, Daniel. I can survive just fine. But if I ever need entertainment, I’ll let you know.” Daniel’s laughter rang out as he walked off, his voice carrying over his shoulder. “I’ll be waiting!” As he disappeared into the crowd, Y/n exhaled slowly, feeling the residual buzz of their exchange. She glanced at her cameraman, who was already smirking at her. “You two need to just date already,” he muttered, shaking his head.
Y/n scoffed, brushing off the comment, though her heart was still pounding slightly from the encounter. “Please. He couldn’t handle me.” But even she wasn’t entirely sure if she believed that.
Daniel leaned against the railing of the Red Bull hospitality suite, the glass of water in his hand momentarily forgotten as he watched Y/n from across the paddock. He could still feel the aftershocks of their little exchange, the way her teasing smile lingered in his mind, her sharp comebacks keeping him on his toes. It wasn’t the first time he’d flirted with Y/n—far from it—but today, there had been something different in the way she’d looked at him. Or maybe it was just his imagination. Either way, she was stuck in his head like a song on repeat.
Max Verstappen’s voice snapped him out of his reverie. “You know, if you stare at her any harder, she might file a complaint.” Daniel blinked, turning to see Max casually leaning against the railing beside him, arms crossed, clearly amused by his teammate’s obvious distraction.
“Who said I was staring?” Daniel shot back, though he couldn’t stop the sheepish grin from spreading across his face. He took a sip of water, trying to play it cool, but the smirk tugging at Max’s lips told him he wasn’t fooling anyone. Max snorted. “Mate, you’ve been watching her since you walked off that interview. You two have been dancing around each other all season.”
Daniel chuckled, shaking his head. “It’s just banter, mate. Y/n’s like that with everyone. Keeps things fun.” Max raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it. “Sure, but I don’t see her flirting with everyone like she does with you.”
Daniel opened his mouth to argue but found himself pausing. Max wasn’t wrong. Y/n’s quick wit and sarcasm were her trademarks, but there was a different energy whenever it was the two of them. A kind of playful, unspoken connection that made their interactions electric. Like something was always on the verge of happening, but neither of them ever let it tip over the edge. “Yeah, well…” Daniel trailed off, unsure of how to finish that thought. Instead, he tried to laugh it off. “I think you’ve got too much time on your hands, mate. Focus on the championship, not my love life.”
Max rolled his eyes but didn’t press further. “Just don’t let her get in your head too much.” Daniel laughed, but even as he did, he couldn’t help but glance over toward her again. She was talking to another driver now, her usual charisma on full display. He could see the way people gravitated toward her, the way she held a room’s attention without even trying. And yet, every time they talked, it felt like the world narrowed down to just the two of them, like the banter was more than just words—they were testing the waters, seeing how far they could push before one of them broke.
“Don’t worry, Verstappen,” Daniel said, tossing the last of his water back and straightening up. “I’ve got this under control.” But as he walked away, heading toward his motorhome, he couldn’t shake the feeling that maybe—just maybe—Y/n was getting under his skin more than he cared to admit.
Y/n wiped a bead of sweat from her brow, glad that the bulk of the interviews were done. She was just packing up her equipment with her cameraman when she spotted Daniel again, strolling through the paddock with that lazy swagger of his. He had that look on his face—the one he got when he was about to stir up trouble. She sighed dramatically, half to herself. “Great. Round two.”
Her cameraman snickered beside her. “Maybe this time he’ll actually ask you out instead of flirting until everyone in the paddock loses their minds.” Y/n shot him a glare, but there was no heat behind it. “That’s not happening. He’s just… Daniel.”
“Sure,” her cameraman said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Just Daniel, who flirts with you nonstop and gets jealous when you interview literally anyone else.” Y/n scoffed, though her heart did a little flip at the thought. “He does not get jealous.”
The cameraman raised his hands in surrender, but his smirk stayed firmly in place. “Whatever you say, Y/n.” Before she could respond, Daniel was standing right in front of her, a mischievous glint in his eye. “You’re not leaving without saying goodbye, are you?” Y/n smiled despite herself, shifting her weight slightly as she faced him. “I was actually hoping to sneak out before you found me. You know, avoid another round of your painfully bad flirting.”
Daniel let out a mock gasp, clutching his chest as if he’d been wounded. “Painfully bad? Y/n, you’re breaking my heart. I thought we had something special.” Y/n rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the grin that tugged at her lips. “If this is your idea of ‘special,’ Ricciardo, I’d hate to see what you’re like on a bad day.”
He stepped closer, his grin softening into something almost—almost—serious. “You haven’t seen anything yet.” There was that spark again, that electric current that seemed to flow between them whenever he got too close. She could feel the heat of his body, the playful tension that always seemed to hang in the air when they were together. For a moment, she let herself wonder what would happen if one of them just—closed the distance. But she pushed the thought aside, slipping back into her usual banter. “Is that a promise?”
Daniel’s eyes flicked down to her lips for a split second, so fast she almost missed it. When he met her gaze again, his grin was back, but it was softer, less cocky than usual. “Maybe.” Before she could respond, her cameraman cleared his throat loudly, clearly enjoying the tension as much as anyone. “I hate to interrupt whatever this is, but we really should get going, Y/n.”
Y/n blinked, the spell between her and Daniel breaking. She cleared her throat, stepping back and giving Daniel a playful shove. “See? Even my cameraman thinks we should quit while we’re ahead.” Daniel laughed, taking the shove in stride, but his gaze lingered on hers. “Alright, Y/n. I’ll let you go… for now.”
As she turned to leave, she felt his voice catch up to her one last time. “But don’t think this is over. I’m just getting started.” She didn’t turn around, but a smile spread across her face. She could feel his eyes on her, even as she walked away, the tension between them still buzzing in the air.
After the long day of interviews, Y/n was finally off duty, her usual professional attire swapped for something more relaxed—black jeans, a loose blouse, and her hair down for once. The hotel bar was buzzing with post-race energy, packed with drivers, team members, and a few well-known faces. She wasn’t one to indulge in the glamorous parties that came with race weekends, but after the intense atmosphere of Monaco, a drink didn’t sound like the worst idea.
Settling onto a barstool, she ordered a drink and let her shoulders relax, enjoying the momentary quiet as she checked her phone for updates from the day. The chatter around her was comforting, familiar, but her mind kept drifting back to the day’s banter with Daniel. She tried not to let it get to her, but there was something undeniably different about today. The tension between them had been thicker than ever, and her usual ability to brush it off seemed to be wearing thin.
“Drinking alone?” His voice slid into her thoughts like a smooth whisper, sending a shiver down her spine before she even turned around. She already knew who it was. She’d recognize that voice anywhere.
She glanced over her shoulder to find Daniel standing behind her, his grin a little too pleased with himself, as if he’d planned this moment all along. He was still in casual clothes—a black T-shirt that hugged his frame just right, jeans slung low on his hips. There was something more laid-back about him outside the paddock, but he still had that same playful energy. “Fancy seeing you here,” she replied, trying to keep her tone casual, though the heat from earlier still lingered. “Didn’t think you’d be the bar type after a race.”
Daniel slid onto the barstool next to her, his eyes never leaving hers. “Who says I am? Maybe I just wanted to check in on my favorite reporter.” She chuckled, shaking her head. “Please, Ricciardo. I know you’ve got half the paddock waiting for you to show up at whatever fancy party’s happening tonight. Why aren’t you there?”
He shrugged, his expression unreadable for once. “Not in the mood for a crowd tonight.”
There was a flicker of something in his eyes—something deeper, something that wasn’t just playful flirtation. It caught her off guard, and for a moment, she didn’t have a sarcastic comeback ready.
“Really?” she asked, tilting her head slightly, trying to read him. He leaned in just a fraction, his voice dropping. “Yeah. Thought I’d see what you were up to instead.”
Her breath hitched, just slightly, the shift in his tone sending a ripple of awareness through her. They’d been playing this game for months, flirting and teasing, always staying just on the edge of something more. But tonight, something felt different. The unspoken line between them seemed thinner than ever, and she wasn’t sure if she wanted to step over it—or if she could stop herself. Y/n smirked, trying to regain her footing in their usual rhythm. “Dangerous choice, Ricciardo. You might find I’m more entertaining when I’m not working.”
Daniel’s grin softened into something more intimate, his eyes locking onto hers in a way that made her pulse race. “I’m counting on it.” Her heart skipped a beat. The tension between them wasn’t just playful anymore—it was charged, crackling with something raw and undeniable. His knee brushed against hers under the bar, and though it was a casual movement, it sent a spark through her, a reminder of just how close they were.
The bartender returned with her drink, and she took a slow sip, trying to regain control of the moment. But Daniel’s gaze never wavered, his attention fully on her in a way that felt almost too intense for the crowded bar. She could feel the heat of his body next to hers, the tension between them thick enough to cut with a knife. “So, what now?” she asked, her voice softer than she intended.
Daniel’s grin faded, replaced by something more serious, his voice low and steady. “That’s up to you, Y/n.” Her breath caught. For once, there was no teasing in his words, no playful challenge. It was real. The invitation hung in the air, and she knew it wasn’t just about their usual back-and-forth banter anymore. He was giving her the choice—to take this further, to step over that line they’d been flirting with for months.
Y/n stared at him for a long moment, her heart racing, unsure if this was a step she was ready to take. But there was no denying the way her body responded to his—how her skin tingled at the thought of what might happen if they finally stopped pretending this was just a game.
Screw it.
Without thinking too hard about it, she leaned in, her breath warm against his ear. “What if I’m not in the mood for a crowd either?” His eyes darkened, the playful spark in them replaced by something far more intense. He didn’t say anything at first, just stared at her, as if weighing her words. Then, slowly, deliberately, he leaned in closer, his lips just barely brushing the curve of her jaw as he whispered, “Then maybe we should get out of here.”
The heat between them was almost unbearable now, and Y/n found herself nodding before she even realized she was doing it. She downed the rest of her drink in one quick motion, her pulse racing, her skin buzzing with anticipation.
Daniel stood up, offering his hand. “Let’s go, then.”
She hesitated for just a second, her mind screaming at her to slow down, to think this through. But as she looked up at him, his hand still extended toward her, that cocky grin softened into something more real, something that made her want to throw caution to the wind.
The city lights outside glowed faintly through the curtains, casting long shadows across the room as Y/n and Daniel kissed, the world outside forgotten. She could feel the intensity of his lips on hers, the way his hand tightened in her hair as if he’d been holding back for months. Her pulse was racing, her body moving instinctively closer to his, the heat between them undeniable. Daniel’s lips trailed from hers, down to her jawline, and then to her neck, where his breath was hot against her skin. Her head tilted back slightly, giving him more access as her fingers gripped the fabric of his T-shirt, pulling him closer. She could feel his smirk against her neck, that familiar cocky edge even in this intimate moment.
“You’ve been driving me crazy all season,” he murmured, his voice low, sending a shiver through her. His lips brushed against her ear as he spoke, and her breath hitched. Y/n’s heart pounded in her chest, her mind spinning at how fast things had escalated—but it felt right. The months of playful tension, the teasing, the flirting, had built to this moment, and now that they’d finally crossed that line, there was no going back.
“Well,” she whispered, her voice breathy as she tugged on his shirt, “you’re not exactly innocent either, Ricciardo.” He pulled back just enough to look at her, their faces inches apart. His eyes were dark, filled with that familiar spark of mischief, but there was something deeper too—something she hadn’t seen before. He stared at her, his hand still resting on her neck, his thumb gently brushing the side of her jaw.
“Maybe we’re both guilty,” he said, his voice soft but filled with meaning. Y/n felt the weight of his words, and for a moment, the playful banter that always defined their relationship faded, replaced by something more raw. She could see it in his eyes—that this wasn’t just another flirtatious game for him, not anymore. He wanted her, and not just for the thrill of the chase.
Her hand slid up his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin through his shirt. “Maybe we are.”
With that, Daniel’s lips were on hers again, but this time the kiss was slower, deeper, the urgency from earlier replaced by something more deliberate. His hands slid down her body, and she felt herself melting into him, the heat between them rising as they moved toward the bed, every touch electric. As they fell onto the bed together, Y/n felt a surge of adrenaline and excitement, her mind spinning with the reality of the moment. She knew this was dangerous territory—mixing work and pleasure—but right now, none of that seemed to matter. All she could think about was Daniel, the way his body felt against hers, the way his touch sent sparks shooting through her veins.
Daniel paused, his body hovering over hers as he looked down at her, his breathing heavy. His hand brushed a strand of hair from her face, his expression serious now. “Y/n,” he said, his voice low, “if we do this… we can’t go back.”
She stared up at him, her heart pounding. There was something about the way he said it that made her realize just how much this meant to him. He wasn’t just talking about tonight—he was talking about everything. Once they crossed this line, their dynamic would change forever. “I know,” she whispered, her fingers trailing along his arm. “But I’m not sure I want to go back.” For a moment, the only sound in the room was their breathing, the tension between them thick and heady. And then, without another word, Daniel kissed her again, and this time there was no hesitation, no holding back.
Daniel lay back on the bed, his chest still rising and falling as he stared up at the ceiling. His arm was wrapped around Y/n, her head resting against his shoulder. The room was quiet now, the intense energy of earlier slowly dissipating into a comfortable silence. He could still feel the warmth of her body against his, the way her fingers lightly traced patterns on his skin.
He hadn’t expected tonight to end like this, but now that it had, he couldn’t imagine it any other way. For months, he’d been playing their little game of flirting, teasing her during interviews, enjoying the back-and-forth. But there had always been something more lurking beneath the surface, something he couldn’t quite put his finger on—until tonight. Now, with Y/n lying beside him, her breath steady and calm, Daniel realized just how deep he was in. This wasn’t just some post-race fling. He hadn’t crossed that line with her just for the thrill of it.
She was different.
Y/n shifted slightly against him, pulling him out of his thoughts. He glanced down at her, her face relaxed, her eyes closed as if she was trying to savor the moment. He felt a pang of something deeper—something he wasn’t quite ready to name yet—but it was there. He pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, letting the comfortable silence stretch between them. But his mind was already racing, wondering what this meant for them. For their professional relationship. For their dynamic. For him. “You okay?” Y/n’s voice broke the silence, soft and a little hesitant, as if she could sense the wheels turning in his head.
Daniel looked down at her again, his fingers brushing lightly through her hair. “Yeah. Just thinking.”
“About what?” she asked, her eyes fluttering open, her gaze meeting his. He hesitated for a moment, unsure how much to say. He didn’t want to freak her out, not when things were so new, so raw. But he also didn’t want to lie. “About us,” he admitted softly. “What happens now.”
Y/n shifted slightly, propping herself up on her elbow so she could look at him more clearly. Her expression was guarded, like she was trying to figure out how to respond. “I guess we take it one step at a time, right?” He nodded, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in his chest. “And the whole… work thing?” Y/n sighed, running a hand through her hair. “Yeah. That’s going to be complicated. We’ll have to be careful.”
Daniel reached out, his hand brushing hers. “I don’t want to hide it.” Her eyes widened slightly in surprise. “You don’t?”
He shook his head. “No. I mean, I get why we’d need to keep it professional around the paddock, but… I don’t want this to be something we just pretend didn’t happen. I don’t want you to think this is just a fling for me.” Y/n stared at him for a long moment, her eyes searching his face as if she was trying to figure out if he was serious. “It’s not?”
Daniel felt a surge of emotion in his chest, something he couldn’t quite name, but he knew it was real. “No. It’s not.”
For a moment, the room was quiet again, the weight of his words hanging in the air. Then, slowly, Y/n leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. “Good,” she whispered against his mouth. “Because it’s not for me either.” And just like that, the uncertainty in his chest melted away, replaced by something warm and steady.
The cool breeze from the St. Lawrence River swept through the paddock as Y/n made her way toward the media center, the sounds of engines revving in the background creating the familiar symphony that always set her heart racing. It was Friday at the Canadian Grand Prix, one of her favorite weekends of the year, and despite everything that had happened with Daniel in Monaco, she was determined to stay focused on work. But, of course, that was easier said than done. She had been dreading seeing him again, not because she regretted anything, but because their dynamic had fundamentally shifted. The playful flirtation they’d mastered was now infused with something deeper, more intimate. And that made everything—every glance, every word—dangerously loaded.
As she entered the media center, she spotted a few of her colleagues already settled in, huddled over their laptops, dissecting practice times and making predictions for the weekend. She smiled to herself, slipping into her usual routine as she unpacked her equipment.
Her cameraman, Tom, appeared beside her, carrying the heavy gear as usual. “So, how are we feeling today? Ready for another round of ‘Will they or won’t they?’ with our favorite Aussie?” His tone was teasing, but his smirk told her he wasn’t going to let this drop.
Y/n shot him a warning look, though she couldn’t suppress the smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. “We’re here to work, Tom. Don’t get any ideas.”
“Yeah, sure,” he said with a knowing grin. “I’m just saying, Ricciardo’s been looking at you like a puppy dog all season, but now—well, now I think he’s upgraded to full-on heart eyes.”
She rolled her eyes, but her heart did a little flip at the thought. The truth was, she hadn’t been able to stop thinking about him either. That night in Monaco had changed everything. She hadn’t expected the feelings to run so deep, but now, every time she thought about him, a mix of excitement and nerves bubbled up inside her.
“Let’s focus on getting through these interviews first, alright?” Y/n said, pulling out her notes for the drivers she had lined up today. Daniel was on her list, but he wasn’t until later. She was grateful for the time to prepare herself.
As the hours passed, Y/n interviewed several drivers, slipping easily into her professional persona. She bantered with Max Verstappen, got some insightful commentary from Lewis Hamilton, and even managed to get Yuki Tsunoda to crack a smile. But the whole time, there was an underlying buzz in her chest, a feeling of anticipation that only grew stronger as the afternoon wore on.
Finally, it was time for Daniel. She saw him before he saw her—his familiar grin and easy swagger as he strolled through the paddock, chatting with a few team members. Her pulse quickened as he approached, the memory of their night together flashing in her mind. He looked casual, yet devastatingly handsome, his Red Bull cap low over his face, but it did nothing to hide that mischievous glint in his eyes. “Hey, Y/n.” His voice was smooth, and when he met her gaze, there was a brief flicker of something unspoken passing between them.
“Hey, Ricciardo,” she replied, her voice steady even as her heart raced.
Daniel’s grin widened, and she could already see the wheels turning in his head, the banter about to unfold. He had a way of making the entire paddock fade away whenever they spoke, as if they were the only two people in the world. “So, how’s my favorite reporter today?” he asked, leaning against the wall beside her with a casual ease that belied the tension between them. Y/n raised an eyebrow, holding her microphone out toward him. “Are you trying to charm your way through this interview, or are you actually going to answer some questions?”
“Can’t I do both?” he quipped, his grin turning playful.
She rolled her eyes, trying to keep things professional. But the way he was looking at her—like he knew exactly what she was thinking—made it hard to focus. “Alright, Ricciardo, let’s keep it professional for at least five minutes. How’s the car feeling out there? Think you can repeat your success from Monaco?”
Daniel’s gaze flickered to her lips for a fraction of a second before he answered. “The car’s feeling good. The track here’s always been one of my favorites, you know that. And yeah, I think I’ve got a pretty good shot. But honestly,” he leaned in slightly, his voice dropping so only she could hear, “I’ve been a little distracted lately.”
Her heart skipped a beat, and she fought to keep her expression neutral. “Distracted? That doesn’t sound like the Daniel Ricciardo we all know and love.” He shrugged, his grin turning more wicked. “What can I say? There’s this one person who’s been on my mind. She’s smart, funny, and I can’t seem to get her out of my head.”
Y/n’s breath caught in her throat, the tension between them thick enough to cut with a knife. For a split second, the professional distance she’d been trying to maintain shattered, and all she could think about was Monaco—the feel of his lips on hers, the way his hands had held her as if he never wanted to let go. But they were in the middle of the paddock, cameras everywhere, and she couldn’t let things spiral out of control. Not here. Not now.“Hmm,” she said, trying to regain control of the situation. “Sounds like you need to focus on the race, Ricciardo. Can’t have you distracted on track.”
“Oh, don’t worry,” he said, his voice low and teasing. “I’m fully focused where it counts. But off track… well, that’s a different story.”
Y/n swallowed hard, her heart racing as she met his gaze. There was no denying the chemistry between them now. It was right there, sizzling just beneath the surface, and it was clear that Daniel wasn’t about to let it go. Not anymore. Her cameraman cleared his throat from behind the lens, breaking the moment. “Uh, you guys ready to wrap this up? We’ve got a schedule to keep.”
Y/n blinked, her cheeks flushing as she tore her gaze away from Daniel. “Right. Yeah. Sorry.”
She finished the interview quickly, keeping things as professional as possible, though her heart was still pounding in her chest. When it was over, she gave Daniel a quick, polite smile. “Thanks for your time, Daniel. Good luck this weekend.”
But as she turned to leave, Daniel reached out, gently grabbing her arm. The contact was brief, but it sent a jolt of electricity through her. He leaned in, his voice just above a whisper. “We’re not done, Y/n.” She looked up at him, her heart pounding, and for a moment, she saw something in his eyes—something that made her pulse race even faster. He wasn’t just talking about the interview, and they both knew it. “We’ll talk later,” she said, her voice quieter than she intended. Daniel’s grin softened, a glimmer of something serious flickering in his gaze. “Yeah. Later.” As she walked away, the weight of their unspoken connection hung in the air between them. Daniel watched as Y/n walked away, her shoulders tense, her posture carefully composed. He could tell she was trying to maintain her professionalism, but he knew better. The look in her eyes back there—it was the same one she had given him in Monaco, right before everything between them had changed. His stomach twisted in that familiar way, the mixture of excitement and nerves making it hard to focus on anything else.
He stuffed his hands into his pockets, leaning against the wall for a moment to collect his thoughts. Normally, he’d be joking around with the mechanics or catching up with the other drivers after a long day, but today his mind was elsewhere. On Y/n. This wasn’t like their usual flirtatious exchanges—this was real now. And though they had crossed a line in Monaco, he still didn’t know where they stood. The chemistry was there, burning as hot as ever, but they hadn’t had a chance to talk about it. Not really. And with the media circus swirling around them, there hadn’t been a private moment since.
He knew it was risky, especially with her being a reporter and him being one of the most high-profile drivers on the grid. But he couldn’t shake the feeling that this—whatever it was between them—was worth it. As the sun began to set over the paddock, casting a golden glow over the teams packing up their gear, Daniel made up his mind. He wasn’t going to let this slip away. He needed to talk to her, to find out where her head was at, and to figure out if they were on the same page. And if he had to wait until after the race weekend to do it, then so be it. But tonight? Tonight, he wasn’t going to let her go without a proper conversation.
By the time Y/n made it back to her hotel, the exhaustion of the day was beginning to catch up with her. She had spent hours bouncing from one interview to the next, doing her best to stay professional and composed even as her mind kept wandering back to Daniel. Her heart was still racing from the way he had looked at her earlier, that playful grin hiding something much more serious underneath.
She stepped into the hotel lobby, the low hum of conversation from the other guests fading into the background as she headed for the elevator. All she wanted was a long shower and maybe a glass of wine to help calm her racing thoughts. But as the elevator doors slid open, she froze. Daniel was standing there, leaning casually against the back wall, as if he’d been waiting for her. His eyes lit up the moment they met hers, and the tension from earlier came rushing back in full force.
“Y/n,” he said, his voice low, a grin playing at the edges of his mouth. “Going up?” Her pulse quickened. She hadn’t expected to see him again so soon, but there he was, and the sight of him—his easy stance, the glint of mischief in his eyes—sent a rush of heat through her. She stepped into the elevator, the doors sliding shut behind her with a soft click. The space felt smaller than it was, their proximity heightening the awareness between them.
“What are you doing here, Daniel?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady, though her heart was hammering in her chest.
He shrugged, but his gaze was locked on hers, serious now. “Waiting for you. We didn’t really finish our conversation earlier.” Y/n swallowed, her throat suddenly dry. The tension in the elevator was suffocating, the air between them thick with all the things left unsaid. She wanted to keep things light, to brush it off with a joke, but the intensity in Daniel’s eyes made it clear he wasn’t in the mood for their usual banter.
“We don’t really have a conversation to finish,” she said, but even she didn’t sound convinced.
Daniel stepped closer, his presence overwhelming in the small space. “You don’t believe that, Y/n.” Her breath caught as he moved into her personal space, the heat of his body radiating off him, making it impossible to focus on anything but the way his eyes darkened as they flickered over her face.
“I told you in Monaco,” he continued, his voice low, “this isn’t just a game for me. I’m not messing around.”
Y/n’s heart skipped a beat, her mind racing. She had been so sure this was a mistake—that mixing work with whatever this was would only lead to trouble. But now, standing here, inches from him, she wasn’t so sure. Maybe this was something she couldn’t walk away from. Not anymore.
“And what about work?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. “What happens when people find out?” Daniel’s hand came up to her arm, his touch gentle but firm, grounding her as his thumb traced slow circles on her skin. “We’ll figure it out,” he said softly. “I’m not worried about them. I’m worried about us.”
Y/n met his gaze, the vulnerability in his eyes catching her off guard. He wasn’t playing this time—there were no jokes, no teasing smiles. He was serious. And she could feel the weight of his words, the way they settled deep in her chest, making it harder to breathe. She searched his face, looking for any sign that this was too much, that they were moving too fast. But all she saw was sincerity—and maybe a little fear, the same kind that had been gnawing at her ever since Monaco.
Before she could say anything, the elevator dinged, the doors sliding open to reveal the hallway to their rooms. They both stood there for a moment, the tension between them buzzing like a live wire, neither of them making a move to step out. “Let’s talk,” Daniel said quietly, his voice cutting through the silence. “Not here. Somewhere we can actually figure this out.”
Y/n hesitated, glancing down the hall toward her room. Part of her wanted to run, to retreat to the safety of her hotel room and push this conversation off for another day. But the other part—the part that had been thinking about him non-stop since Monaco—wanted to stay, to see where this led. She nodded slowly, stepping out of the elevator. “Alright. Let’s talk.”
The room was quiet except for the faint hum of the air conditioner, the soft light from the lamp casting a warm glow over the space. Y/n sat on the edge of the bed, her nerves on edge as Daniel paced in front of her, clearly trying to find the right words.
After they had left the elevator, they made their way to Daniel’s room, the tension between them palpable. Now, with the door closed and the outside world temporarily shut out, it felt like they were finally going to have the conversation they’d been avoiding for days. Daniel stopped pacing, finally looking at her, his expression serious. “I don’t want this to be something we ignore after every race,” he began, his voice steady. “I don’t want us to just pretend like nothing’s happening.”
Y/n’s stomach tightened, the weight of his words pressing down on her. “I know. But we’re both in the spotlight, Daniel. It’s complicated.”
“Everything’s complicated,” he said, moving toward her, his hands resting on the bed beside her. “But I want to figure this out with you. I’m not asking for all the answers right now, but I don’t want to lose whatever this is. I can’t.”
Y/n’s heart ached at the vulnerability in his voice, the raw honesty that he was offering her. She had been so caught up in her own fears—about work, about what people would think—that she hadn’t stopped to consider what he wanted, what he needed.
“I don’t either,” she admitted softly, looking up at him. “But I’m scared, Daniel. This could change everything.”
He crouched down in front of her, his hands gently taking hers. “It doesn’t have to. We can take this slow, figure it out one step at a time. But I need to know if you’re in this with me.” Y/n stared down at their joined hands, her mind racing. She could feel the weight of the decision pressing on her, the choice between staying in her comfort zone or stepping into the unknown with him. But when she looked up and met his gaze, the answer became clear.
“I’m in,” she whispered. Daniel’s face broke into a soft, relieved smile, and in that moment, the tension between them eased, replaced by something warmer, something real. Without another word, he leaned in, pressing his lips to hers in a kiss that was slow and full of promise.
The second practice day of the Canadian GP was buzzing with energy, the usual mix of tension and excitement rippling through the paddock. But today, for Y/n, there was a different kind of thrill in the air—one that had nothing to do with the race. She and Daniel had talked late into the night, and for the first time since Monaco, everything felt clear. There was no more pretending, no more awkward boundaries. They both wanted this. And, despite their circumstances, they were done holding back.
As she made her way through the paddock, the sun high in the sky, she felt a lightness she hadn’t in days. Her mind wasn’t tangled up in doubts or second-guessing anymore. Her lips curved into a smile as she spotted Daniel leaning against the Red Bull garage, chatting casually with a few mechanics. His eyes caught hers, and the grin that spread across his face was pure mischief. She walked up to him, aware of the crew bustling around them, but not caring. The flirtation between them had always been playful, but now, with everything out in the open, there was an unmistakable shift. It wasn’t just for show anymore.
“Morning, Ricciardo,” she said, a teasing lilt in her voice as she stopped in front of him, hands on her hips. “You look awfully smug today. Is this your usual race weekend energy or did something else put you in a good mood?” Daniel chuckled, his eyes scanning her face with that familiar spark. “Can’t say it’s just the race, no.” He leaned in slightly, his voice dropping. “I’m feeling good. Very good. Must be something in the Montreal air.”
“Oh, is that right?” Y/n raised an eyebrow, playing along. “Must be some special kind of air, then. Should I be concerned?”
He grinned, his eyes never leaving hers. “Only if you’re planning to run away before I can finish what I’ve been thinking about all morning.”
“And what might that be?” she asked, feigning innocence, though her pulse quickened at the look in his eyes.
Daniel pushed off the wall and closed the small distance between them, his hand brushing against hers in a subtle but deliberate gesture. “I’ve been thinking… it’s about time I take you out. You know, somewhere without engines revving in the background.”
Y/n’s heart did a little flip, but she kept her cool. “You’re officially asking me out, Ricciardo? Took you long enough.”
“I’d say I’m asking very officially,” he replied, his voice teasing but his gaze serious. “Dinner. Somewhere nice. You, me. No cameras, no paddock. Just us.” She pretended to think it over, tapping her chin with a dramatic air. “Hmm. I don’t know. I’m kind of busy being a famous reporter. I might have to check my schedule.”
Daniel laughed, shaking his head. “Oh, come on, Y/n. Don’t make me beg.” She let the silence linger for a beat, watching him squirm just a little, before flashing him a cheeky smile. “Alright, Ricciardo. I’ll let you take me out. But only if you promise not to embarrass yourself.”
“Me? Embarrass myself?” he echoed, eyes wide in mock horror. “I’m insulted. I’m the king of charm.”
“More like the jester of charm,” she shot back, grinning. “Sure,” Daniel said, laughing. “But just you wait. I’ll show you a side of me that’ll blow your mind. Not just the racing driver.”
“Oh, now that I’d like to see.” She winked, feeling the flirty rhythm between them settle into place effortlessly. This was what she loved about being around him—the banter, the lighthearted fun—but now there was something deeper, a connection that wasn’t just surface-level flirting. Daniel’s hand brushed hers again, but this time, he caught her fingers in his, holding them just for a moment longer than necessary. The touch was warm and soft, a quiet promise of more to come.
“Tonight then?” he asked, his voice quieter now, more sincere. She smiled, feeling the butterflies take flight in her stomach. “Tonight.”
Daniel was riding high. The second practice session had gone smoothly—his car felt good, his lap times were solid, but more than that, his mind was clear. For once, the noise of the race weekend wasn’t the only thing driving him.
He glanced across the paddock, where Y/n was talking to one of the Ferrari drivers, her face lit up with that signature, witty smile of hers. Every now and then, her eyes flickered in his direction, and he felt that familiar zing of anticipation. She was messing with him, as usual, but this time, it was different. They weren’t dancing around their feelings anymore. The flirtation wasn’t just for fun—it was real now, and Daniel couldn’t help but feel like the luckiest guy in the paddock. As the session wrapped up and the teams began packing up the garage, Daniel took a breath, preparing to make his way over to Y/n. But before he could take a step, Max Verstappen appeared at his side, eyebrow raised.
“Alright, mate,” Max said with a knowing smirk. “You going to explain what’s going on, or do I have to spell it out for you?”
Daniel blinked, momentarily caught off guard. “What are you talking about?” Max’s smirk deepened. “You and Y/n. You’re not exactly subtle, you know?”
Daniel laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, well. I guess it’s kind of hard to hide now.”
“Kind of?” Max raised an eyebrow, glancing over at Y/n. “You guys have been flirting like it’s your job. Everyone’s been watching, man. It’s about time you did something about it.” Daniel shook his head, but he couldn’t wipe the grin off his face. “Yeah, we’re… sorting it out.”
“About time,” Max muttered, but there was no malice in his voice. “Good luck, man. You’re going to need it with her.” Daniel chuckled. “I know.”
The paddock was winding down as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, the teams preparing for the final stretch of practice before race day. Y/n had just wrapped up an interview with Charles Leclerc when she felt a familiar presence behind her. “Hey,” Daniel’s voice, warm and low, reached her ear. “Ready for tonight?” Y/n turned to face him, her heart doing that little flutter it always did when he was close. She wasn’t used to feeling this way—so light, so open—but with Daniel, it felt natural. Easy.
“I was born ready,” she teased, a playful glint in her eye. “But are you ready, Ricciardo? I’ve got high standards, you know.” Daniel grinned, his eyes sparkling with challenge. “Oh, I’m ready. Trust me. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.”
Y/n raised an eyebrow, stepping closer to him, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “You sure about that? Because I’ve got some tricks of my own.” Daniel’s grin faltered for a split second, a flash of something like desire crossing his face. It was gone in an instant, replaced by his usual cocky charm, but Y/n caught it—and it made her heart race.
“I guess we’ll find out tonight then, won’t we?” he said, his voice soft, full of promise. Before she could respond, one of her colleagues called her name from across the paddock, reminding her that work still wasn’t quite done. Y/n gave Daniel a lingering look, then turned to head off. “Tonight,” she called over her shoulder, her voice playful but with a hint of something more serious underneath.
Daniel watched her go, his grin widening. “Tonight,” he repeated softly to himself, the excitement building inside him.
Daniel glanced over at her, his hand resting casually on Y/n’ thigh like it was natural for them, his fingers just close enough to hers on her thigh that she could feel the warmth radiating from him. There was an easy silence between them, the kind that spoke of familiarity and comfort, but beneath it, the anticipation crackled. “You’re being unusually quiet,” she teased, her voice light. “Getting nervous?”
Daniel chuckled, shaking his head. “Nervous? Nah. Just thinking.”
“About what?” she asked, turning slightly to look at him. He glanced at her, a slow smile spreading across his face. “About how this is probably the best idea I’ve had in a while.” Y/n laughed softly, her heart skipping a beat. “Probably?”
“Well,” he said, grinning, “I guess we’ll see how the night goes.” She couldn’t help but smile, the warmth between them making her feel giddy. They were finally doing this. And it felt… right.
“Don’t worry, Ricciardo,” she said, her voice soft but full of teasing affection. “I won’t bite.”
“Not unless I ask, right?” Daniel shot back, winking as the car slowed at a red light. Y/n burst out laughing, shaking her head. “You wish.”
The tension between them was playful, but there was something simmering underneath, something real and undeniable. This wasn’t just their usual back-and-forth—they both knew what was waiting for them tonight. A real date, the beginning of something they had both been tiptoeing around for too long. As the light turned green, Daniel’s hand finally brushed against hers, his fingers slipping between hers in a casual, easy way that made her heart skip a beat.
“Let’s make this a night to remember,” he said, glancing at her with a smile that promised more than just dinner. And Y/n, for the first time in a long time, felt like she was exactly where she was supposed to be.
The vibrant atmosphere of the Italian GP was electric. The paddock buzzed with excitement as teams prepared for the weekend, and for Y/n, everything felt different this time. She strolled through the bustling area, her hand casually intertwined with Daniel’s, a smile plastered on her face. It was surreal to think that just a few races ago, they had been tiptoeing around their feelings. Now, they were officially a couple, and the world was just as eager to embrace it as they were.
“Look at this place,” she said, her eyes sparkling as they passed by the McLaren garage. “You can practically smell the adrenaline in the air.” Daniel chuckled, his thumb brushing against the back of her hand, sending a delicious thrill up her arm. “And the pizza. Don’t forget the pizza. I think it’s the real reason we’re here.”
“Oh, please,” Y/n replied, rolling her eyes playfully. “You just want an excuse to eat your weight in carbs. I’m here for the racing. And the interviews. And the—” she gestured around, “—entire atmosphere. Besides, we both know the pizza will be my treat.”
“Is that so?” he shot back, his voice teasing, a glint of mischief in his eyes. “I thought we were doing the classic ‘you pay for dinner, I pay for dessert’ routine.”
“Keep dreaming, Ricciardo,” she laughed, shaking her head. “You still owe me from that dinner in Montreal.” Daniel feigned shock, placing a hand over his heart. “How could you bring that up? I thought we were past that.”
Y/n smirked, her eyes glinting with playful challenge. “Oh, I’m never letting you forget it. It’ll be the story I tell the grandkids. ‘Your grandpa, the notorious dessert dodger.’”
“Notorious? Me?” he laughed, shaking his head. “I have a reputation to uphold. I’ll make it up to you. How about I share my winning strategy for Monza over dinner?”
“Do you really think I’m that easy to impress?” she teased, nudging him with her shoulder as they walked. “I’m not saying you’re easy,” Daniel replied, turning to her with a devilish grin. “But you do like me, and that has to count for something.”
“Oh, it does,” she said, looking up at him with a teasing smile. “It counts for a lot. Just not enough for a free pass on dessert.” As they walked toward the Red Bull hospitality area, Y/n couldn’t help but steal glances at Daniel, who was in his element, joking with team members and making everyone around him laugh. The way he lit up the room, combined with their chemistry, made it clear to everyone that they were completely smitten with each other. The day had started with practice, and now Daniel was soaking in the post-session debrief with his team. But even as they discussed telemetry and strategies, his mind kept drifting to Y/n, who was currently filming a segment for her show nearby.
He watched her through the glass wall, her laughter ringing out as she interacted with some of the younger team members. She was animated, full of life, and he felt a warmth in his chest watching her. Their relationship had blossomed beautifully since they first acknowledged their feelings, and now everything felt effortless. “Daydreaming, Daniel?” Max’s voice cut through his thoughts, a teasing grin plastered on his face.
Daniel turned back to his teammate, a guilty smile creeping onto his lips. “Can you blame me? Have you seen her?” Max raised an eyebrow, the corners of his mouth twitching. “I have, and it’s a little sickening how perfect you two are together. Just don’t get too mushy on us, alright? We still have a race to win.”
“Oh, I won’t,” Daniel replied, rolling his eyes. “But can you blame me for enjoying the view? I mean, Y/n’s got that smile that could light up the entire grid.”
“You’re unbearable,” Max said, laughing. “Just don’t get too distracted out there.”
“Hey, I can multitask,” Daniel replied, puffing out his chest with mock bravado. “Watch me win this race while also keeping my eyes on my beautiful girlfriend.”
“You’re hopeless,” Max shot back, shaking his head. “Just remember, no oversteering because you’re busy flirting.”
“Flirting? Me?” Daniel feigned innocence, but a mischievous glint danced in his eyes. “I’ll have you know, I am a model of focus.”
“Right,” Max said, rolling his eyes, but his grin gave away his amusement.
The energy of race day filled the air, thick with anticipation. Y/n had just finished a live broadcast, wrapping up the day’s excitement, and now she was walking toward the Red Bull garage, searching for Daniel. She felt the familiar thrill coursing through her, a mixture of adrenaline and affection, and she couldn’t help but smile. Spotting him talking with a couple of engineers, she felt a swell of pride. He looked so at home in this world, so confident and happy. As she approached, he caught sight of her, and a broad smile broke across his face. “There she is,” he exclaimed, pushing away from the conversation. “My favorite reporter.”
“Don’t you mean ‘my only reporter’?” she countered, a teasing tone in her voice. “True, true. But still my favorite,” he said, stepping closer to her. “How was the broadcast?”
“Just another day in paradise,” she replied, a smirk on her lips. “You know, reporting on the boring stuff while you’re out here living your best life.”
“Boring?” he said, feigning shock. “My girlfriend is never boring. She’s got this incredible knack for making even the dullest topics sound exciting.”
“Flattery will get you everywhere,” she joked, leaning in closer, their playful banter rolling off the tongue effortlessly. “But seriously, I’m just doing my job.”
“Which you do fantastically,” he said, his tone shifting slightly, sincerity breaking through the playful facade. “You know, I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this circus.” Y/n’s heart warmed at the compliment, and she leaned into him slightly, feeling the warmth radiating from his body. “You make it easy, Ricciardo.”
“Good,” he said, placing a teasing kiss on her temple. “Now, about that bet we made—”
“Bet?” she echoed, raising an eyebrow. “I believe I promised a victory lap in exchange for a good luck charm,” he winked.
“Oh, is that how it works?” she teased, feeling her cheeks flush. “You think I’m your lucky charm?”
“Definitely,” he said, his tone serious but the sparkle in his eyes betraying him. “But I need you to come to the winners’ circle after the race, alright?”
“Don’t you dare count me out,” she replied, feeling a rush of excitement at the thought of being there to celebrate with him. “I’ll be there, cheering you on.” He grinned, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. “And who knows? If I win, maybe I’ll take you for that victory lap I promised.”
Y/n laughed, shaking her head. “I’ll hold you to that, but just know—I’m not afraid to take control if you get distracted.”
“Now that’s what I like to hear,” he replied, stepping even closer, their playful banter morphing into something deeper. “But I’d like to see you try.” Y/n bit her lip, her breath catching in her throat at the challenge in his eyes. “Oh, I will.”
The race was over, and Daniel had done it—he’d crossed the finish line in first place after a long while for the first time, the roar of the crowd echoing around him like a warm embrace. The adrenaline still pulsed through his veins as he parked the car and unbuckled himself, the euphoria of victory washing over him. As he stepped out of the car, the cheers of the fans felt like music to his ears. He spotted Y/n near the front of the paddock, her face beaming with pride, and his heart swelled at the sight. She was everything he’d ever wanted—confident, funny, and undeniably supportive.
When he climbed up to the podium, the realization of what he had accomplished hit him like a wave, and it was only made better by the sight of her cheering him on, her excitement palpable. “Thank you! Thank you, everyone!” he shouted, raising the trophy high above his head. “This is for all of you!”
The crowd roared back, but Daniel’s gaze was firmly locked on Y/n, who was practically bouncing on her heels, her eyes bright with joy. He felt a surge of affection and gratitude for her support, for being there through every twist and turn of this whirlwind relationship. When the national anthem played, he turned to the crowd, his heart swelling with pride. But all he could think about was her—how far they’d come since that night in Montreal, how every moment had led them here.
As the anthem finished and the crowd continued to cheer, he leaned down to Y/n, their faces inches apart. “Hey,” he said, his voice low enough for her to hear above the noise. “You ready for that victory lap?”
“Oh, absolutely!” she beamed, and he couldn’t help but grin back. He pulled her into the moment, wrapping his arms around her waist, feeling her warmth against him. “Just remember, I drive fast.”
Y/n laughed, her eyes dancing with excitement. “I’m not scared. I can handle it!” With that, they jumped into the car, the world outside a blur as they sped off, laughter echoing around them. In that moment, everything felt perfect—her hand resting on his knee, the wind rushing through their hair, and the thrill of victory pulsing between them.
As they took the victory lap, Daniel glanced over at Y/n, and the playful tension between them deepened. This was their moment, a beautiful blend of love and laughter, and he couldn’t help but think how lucky he was to have her by his side. “Next stop,” he said, his voice full of promise, “more victories with you.”
Y/n smirked, leaning closer, her lips brushing against his ear as she whispered, “Just you wait, Ricciardo. I’m just getting started.” With that, Daniel hit the accelerator, the roar of the engine echoing their excitement, a celebration of everything they had become together. It was a whirlwind romance, full of laughter, challenges, and triumphs—and it was just the beginning.
✦ DEBRIEF: No cameras, no obligations, just the lazy rhythm of conversation and the comfort of familiar hands intertwined. The world can wait, just for a little longer. After all, some moments deserve to stretch on forever.
✦ CHECKERED FLAG: 3.7K words
✦ TRACK LIMITS: just lots of fluff and cute banter. no use of y/n. english is not my first language x
✦ MAY'S RADIO: yesterday i saw this video on tiktok and i had to write it for danielito 💘 it was supposed to be just a drabble but...*sighs*
< back to general masterlist
The golden Monaco sun cast a warm glow over the pastel buildings, the scent of salt and freshly baked bread drifting through the air as you and Daniel strolled through the narrow, winding streets. His hand brushed against yours absentmindedly, the easy intimacy of two people who had carved out a quiet life together away from the chaos of the world.
The city, alive with its usual summer hum, felt slower today—or maybe that was just him. Daniel walked beside you, hands tucked into the pockets of his shorts, sunglasses perched on his nose, and a light scruff dusting his jaw. He looked at ease, like he belonged here, like the world of racing had never claimed him in the first place.
Laughter bubbled from his lips as he recounted some ridiculous story, his sunglasses sliding down his nose as he glanced at you with that signature grin—the one that made your heart trip over itself no matter how many times you’d seen it.
“Alright, mon amour,” he teased with an exaggerated accent, nudging you gently with his elbow. “We’re in the mood for something fancy, or are we going full tourist and getting pizza by the port?” The sun kissed his tanned skin, his carefree demeanor a stark contrast to the adrenaline-fueled world he usually thrived in. But here, with you, in the lull of summer, Daniel was just Daniel—the man who made you laugh, who pulled you closer when the breeze picked up, and who, at that moment, looked at you like he had all the time in the world.
You rolled your eyes at his question, adjusting your sunglasses as you glanced at him with feigned exasperation. “Daniel, we live here. We are not tourists.”
He let out an exaggerated gasp, placing a hand over his chest as if you had wounded him. “Excuse me, but pizza by the port is a classic experience, no matter how long you've lived here.” His voice took on a faux-serious tone, but the playful glint in his eyes gave him away.
You smirked, shaking your head. “Mmm, sounds like someone just doesn’t want to sit through a proper meal.”
“Okay, first of all,” he held up a finger, “a proper meal is subjective.” He gestured toward the lively cafés lining the streets, their terraces filled with people sipping wine and sharing plates of seafood. “Second, I was thinking of you, my love. You always say you don’t like eating heavy meals in this heat.”
You narrowed your eyes at him, skeptical. “That’s true… but you’re also conveniently leaving out the fact that you have the patience of a toddler when you’re hungry.”
Daniel gasped again, more dramatic this time, stopping in the middle of the cobbled street. “Uh excuse me?! I have the patience of a saint, thank you very much.”
You arched a brow, crossing your arms. “Oh, really? So, you didn’t nearly lose your mind waiting for our order last week at that fancy place?”
“That was different!” He threw his hands up. “They made us wait forty minutes just to bring out the bread, and you know how I feel about bread service!”
You burst out laughing, grabbing his wrist to pull him forward as he stubbornly stood there, reliving his past suffering. “Okay, okay, let’s compromise. We get something light but not just pizza, deal?”
Daniel hummed, pretending to think it over as you turned a corner, the sound of waves crashing against the marina in the distance. “Fine, but only if I get to pick dessert.”
You squinted at him. “So, this was about your sweet tooth all along?”
A guilty smirk spread across his face. “Listen, baby, I can’t help that gelato is my one true weakness.”
You shook your head, laughing. “You are so lucky I love you.”
“Oh, I know I am,” he said smoothly, leaning down to press a quick kiss to your lips. “And I plan to keep reminding you with every bite of gelato I feed you later.”
The narrow street opened up into a sun-drenched plaza, the scent of espresso and fresh seafood hanging thick in the warm August air. You and Daniel meandered toward a café with a shaded terrace, but he kept bumping into you lightly with his hip, a mischievous grin plastered across his sun-kissed face.
“Oi, you keep shoving me, I’m gonna have to start charging you rent for walking in my personal space,” you teased, giving him a playful nudge back.
Daniel clutched his chest like you’d mortally wounded him. “Your personal space? Babe, please. This whole city should be paying me rent just for blessing it with my presence.”
You scoffed, stepping up onto the curb while he remained on the street, making you just slightly taller than him. “Oh, you think you’re some kind of gift to Monte Carlo?”
He wiggled his brows. “I mean, yeah. Have you seen me? Local legend. National treasure. The pride of Perth.”
You deadpanned. “You’re in Monaco, Daniel.”
“Exactly. I’m international, baby.” He struck a ridiculous pose, hands on his hips like a superhero.
You covered your face, laughing into your palm. “God, why am I dating you?”
He gasped, dramatically taking a step back like you had just rocked his world. “You don’t know?! Babe, this is alarming. What happened to ‘oh Daniel, I love you so much, you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me’?” His voice pitched higher as he mimicked you.
You burst into laughter, nearly tripping over the cobblestone as you smacked his arm. “I have never said that in my life!”
Daniel waggled a finger. “Nah, nah, you said it. Maybe not in words, but with your eyes.”
“Oh, so you’re an expert in my eyes now?”
“Mate, I could write a whole bloody thesis on ‘em.” He tilted his head, squinting dramatically. “Chapter One: ‘The Death Stare—How One Exotic Woman Strikes Fear into a Grown Australian Man.’”
You crossed your arms, feigning seriousness. “Uh-huh. And Chapter Two?”
“‘Heart Eyes—A Study in How Quickly She Melts When I Do This.’” Without warning, he reached over and pinched your cheek, pulling lightly before quickly dodging out of your reach when you swatted at him.
You groaned, but you were grinning. “Daniel! You are so annoying!”
“And yet,” he sang, slinging an arm over your shoulders and tugging you close as he steered you toward the café, “here you are, still stuck with me, schricchiolina.”
You sighed dramatically, shaking your head. “Unbelievable.”
Daniel grinned, pressing a noisy, exaggerated kiss to your temple before whispering, “You love it, though.”
You did. And he knew it.
The café was tucked into the curve of the quay in Fontvieille, shaded by striped awnings with little potted citrus trees lining the terrace. The warm hum of conversation mixed with the occasional clatter of cutlery, the scent of espresso and grilled seafood weaving through the air.
Daniel, ever the gentleman, pulled out your chair before plopping down across from you, one arm draped lazily over the back of his seat.
A waiter appeared, all polite efficiency, handing over the menus. You glanced over at Daniel, who was already scanning the options like it was a life-or-death decision.
“You’re just going to order the same thing you always do,” you teased, not even looking at your own menu.
“Excuse me, I am a man of taste and variety,” he argued, though his eyes flickered over to the pasta he always ordered.
You snorted. “Taste, yes. Variety? Absolutely not.”
Daniel rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress the grin tugging at his lips. “Alright, what are you getting, then, Miss Culinary Adventure?”
You pretended to ponder. “Mmm, maybe I should just order for the both of us. Make sure we get something exciting. Maybe some... snails?”
Daniel’s nose scrunched immediately. “Alright, first of all, escargot is just a fancy way of saying ‘garden slugs on a plate,’ and I refuse.”
“Ah, so you do lack variety.”
“I do not lack variety. I just have standards,” he declared, setting his menu down with finality. “And my standards say no to chewy bugs drenched in butter.”
The waiter returned before you could tease him further, and Daniel ordered his usual (as expected), and shot you a cheeky look. “–and a side of bread. You know, for the trauma.” You snorted, shaking your head as you placed your own order, picking something different just to prove a point.
As the waiter left, your eyes flickered over his outfit—the mint green bucket hat, the Enchanté tote bag resting beside him, the Gator Tours trunks that somehow made the man look like one of those dads on tourist-mode. You smirked.
“You know,” you mused, resting your chin on your hand, “for someone who gives me a hard time about my shopping habits, you sure do love wearing your own merch.”
Daniel smirked, leaning back in his chair. “What can I say? I have impeccable taste.”
“Oh, sure, sure,” you nodded mock-seriously. “But let’s be real, do you actually like the designs, or do you just love seeing your own name on your clothes?”
Daniel gasped, placing a hand over his heart. “I am offended at this blatant attack on my fashion sense.”
You bit back a grin. “I just think it’s funny how you act all cool about it when I know you get all smug when someone recognizes your stuff.”
He huffed a laugh, then narrowed his eyes at you playfully. “Alright, Miss Observant, if we’re pointing out habits, let’s talk about how you love my merch.”
You tilted your head, amused. “Yeah, I wear your hoodies sometimes. So what?”
He wiggled his brows. “Not just hoodies.”
Your stomach dipped slightly at the knowing glint in his eye. “What are you talking about?”
Daniel leaned forward, voice dropping just enough to send a shiver down your spine. “I’m talking about how you love wearing my shirts. And only my shirts.” His grin turned downright devilish. “Just a t-shirt and a cute little pair of panties—or not—, walking around the apartment as if it is your own runway.”
Heat rushed to your face. “Daniel.”
“What?” he teased, sipping his drink like he hadn't just flustered you in broad daylight. “It’s a great look. Huge fan, really.”
You shook your head, exhaling a laugh. “You are insufferable.”
“And yet, you still give me a show every day.” He winked.
A beat passed and then—
“Are you okay?” he leaned a little over the table, amusement dancing in his eyes at the crimson tide that surged into your cheeks, a hint of mischief colored his tone, “You look a little–”
“I’m fine! Shut up.” a gentle pout formed on your lips, but you couldn't help the smile that threatened to lift the edges of your mouth. A lighthearted smirk pinched at his cheeks, his gaze drifting toward the marina, you could tell he’d gotten lost in thought. The sun highlighted the light scruff on his jaw, the easy way he carried himself here, like these last few months had softened all his edges.
A TikTok trend you’d seen that morning flickered in your mind, sparking a mischievous idea that you couldn’t resist. You leaned forward, lowering your voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “Hey, Daniel.”
He blinked, startled out of his daze, his wide brown eyes meeting yours with the cutest little look—eyebrows raised, lips parted slightly, like you’d just pulled him out of another world. “Yeah?” His voice was softer, curious.
You leaned in even closer, as if you were about to reveal something truly life-altering, and whispered, “I have a crush on you.”
You said it like it was the first time, like it wasn’t something he had heard countless times before, like it wasn’t already carved into the foundation of your relationship.
And oh, the way it hit him.
His shoulders bunched slightly, his hands coming together on his lap like he didn’t know what to do with them. His head tilted just a bit, cheek brushing against his shoulder, a shy, boyish smile creeping onto his lips.
So fucking cute. You could eat him with a spoon.
He pointed at himself with wide eyes, as if he couldn’t quite believe what he was hearing. You simply nodded, your chin resting on your fist, watching the disbelief flicker across his face.
“You… you do?” His voice was small, teasing yet unmistakably earnest, like you had just knocked the air right out of him and sent him spiraling back to the nerves of a schoolboy with a crush.
A slow smile tugged at your lips as you tilted your head. “Yeah. I think you’re pretty cool.”
Daniel let out a breathy laugh, running a hand through his hair like he needed a second to process. “Wow. That’s—uh, that’s pretty huge, actually.”
You nodded seriously. “Massive.”
His lips twitched, cheeks tinged pink, before he did a little victorious shimmy in his chair, pumping his fist in the air like he’d just won something monumental. Your laughter spilled out, light and unrestrained, and then—just loud enough for only you to hear—he leaned in and whispered,
“I have a crush on you, too.”
And just like that, you had the privilege of watching a grown man—a man who had faced death-defying speeds, podium finishes, and championship pressure—turn into the most bashful, love-struck thing in the middle of a sunlit café in the Principality.
Your heart clenched at the sight of him—all coy and ridiculously endearing—like this was all still new, like he still couldn’t believe you were his.
God, you were so in love with him.
The waiter returned with your drinks, setting them down before disappearing again. You picked up your smoothie, taking a sip as Daniel tapped a beat against the table with his fingers. His eyes softened as he watched you, a content smile tugging at his lips.
“Y’know,” he mused, tilting his head slightly, “I think this might be my favorite version of us.”
You set your glass down, curiosity flickering in your gaze. “What do you mean?”
Daniel shrugged, looking out at the sun-drenched plaza before meeting your eyes again. “Just… this. Us. Waking around the city, sitting in some café, arguing over yucky foods and bread. No rush, no cameras, no pressure. Just us.”
Your heart melted just a little, the sincerity in his voice catching you off guard. You reached across the table, lacing your fingers with his. “Yeah,” you said softly, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. “Me too.”
Daniel grinned, squeezing your hand in return before leaning in conspiratorially. “But just so we’re clear,” he murmured, voice dropping like he was about to tell you a grand secret, “if you do try to order snails next time, I will cause a scene.”
You snorted, trying to pull your hand away, but he held onto it, laughter dancing in his eyes. “Oh, so you’d embarrass yourself and me just to avoid a plate of escargot?”
“Absolutely,” he said without hesitation. “I have my dignity to protect.”
“Dignity?” You raised an eyebrow. “Big word for someone who once tripped over his own shoelaces while trying to bow after karaoke night.”
Daniel groaned, tossing his head back dramatically. “Why must you always bring that up?”
“Because it was hilarious.”
“Alright, well, for your information, I meant to do that,” he declared, sitting up straighter, looking smug despite the lie.
You hummed, unconvinced. “Sure you did.”
He let out a breathy laugh, shaking his head, but his fingers absentmindedly traced slow, lazy circles over your ring finger, grounding the moment in something softer.
A comfortable silence settled between you, the chatter of the café filling the space. The sunlight caught in Daniel’s curls, turning them into lazy golden waves, his eyes flickering between you and the street beyond. His free hand reached for his drink, but before he could take a sip, he hesitated, then set it down again.
“I don’t want to move,” he admitted suddenly, as if the thought had just hit him.
You blinked. “Move where?”
“Anywhere.” He gestured vaguely around. “Like… I don’t want you to go back to the other side of the world, or us to get dragged into some event, or—” He paused, rubbing his thumb against your knuckles, voice quieter when he continued. “I just want to sit here with you. All day, if we can.”
Your chest tightened, a warmth spreading through you at his words.
You squeezed his hand, your thumb brushing over the back of his as you leaned in slightly, your voice just as soft. “We can.”
Daniel’s eyes flicked up to yours, something tender and almost boyish in the way he searched your face. “Yeah?”
You nodded. “We’ve got nowhere to be. No flights, no schedules, no cameras. Just you and me, sitting in a café in Monaco, eating not pizza and people-watching until we get bored.”
His lips twitched into a small, lopsided smile. “And then what?”
“Then,” you shrugged playfully, “we walk back to our place, take a nap with the AC blasting because it’s too damn hot, and probably end up ordering takeout for dinner.”
Daniel exhaled a laugh, shaking his head. “God, that sounds perfect.”
“It is,” you agreed. “And it’s all ours for the whole month.”
He looked at you like he was committing this moment to memory—the way the sun painted your skin golden, the relaxed ease in your posture, the sheer rightness of having you across from him, promising time.
For the rest of our lives, was what he didn’t say.
“Guess I should start charging you rent now,” he teased, squeezing your fingers.
You rolled your eyes. “Please. If anything, you should be paying me to grace that fancy apartment with my presence.”
Daniel snorted. “Oh yeah? And what exactly do I get in return?”
You smirked, sipping your drink before answering, “Entertainment, obviously.”
“Ah, yes. Watching you dramatically sigh every time I leave my socks on the floor is top-tier entertainment,” he said dryly.
You gasped, feigning offense. “Excuse me, I do not dramatically sigh.”
“You do,” he countered. “It’s like a mix of disappointment and deep suffering. Very moving, honestly.”
You scoffed, shaking your head. “You’re ridiculous.”
“And you love it.”
You huffed but didn’t deny it, instead narrowing your eyes at him.
The waiter returned with your meals, setting down a plate of cacio e pepe in front of Daniel. His eyes lit up as he inhaled the comforting aroma of the simple yet perfect dish—cheese, black pepper, and pasta.
“Now this is real food,” he said proudly, grabbing his fork like he was about to paint a masterpiece.
Then, the waiter placed your dish in front of you—a beautifully plated bouillabaisse, the classic French seafood stew. Steam curled into the air, carrying the scent of saffron, garlic, and fresh shellfish.
Daniel took one look at your bowl and immediately wrinkled his nose. “I still don’t get how you can eat that.”
You raised an eyebrow. “It’s literally just seafood.”
“It’s seafood in soup,” he corrected, staring at it like it might bite him first. “Why would you ruin perfectly good fish by dunking it in a bowl of sadness?”
You scoffed. “It’s not sadness, it’s flavor.”
“It’s wet,” he countered flatly, making you snort.
Rolling your eyes, you picked up a mussel, dipping it into the fragrant broth. “For a guy who’s mom is Italian and lived in Italy, you’re weirdly dramatic about food.”
“I’m right about food,” he corrected, taking a victorious bite of his pasta. “You could’ve had literally any pasta dish, and you went for—” He waved his fork at your bowl. “That.”
“It’s French cuisine!” you defended. “We’re in Monaco! It felt appropriate.”
Daniel shook his head, exasperated but clearly amused. “You know what? Enjoy your soggy seafood. I’ll be over here eating like a king.”
You rolled your eyes but couldn’t hide your smile, and he grinned, twirling more pasta onto his fork.
You smirked, cutting into one of the scallops and lifting it toward him. “Try it.”
Daniel leaned back like you’d just offered him poison. “Absolutely not.”
“Oh, come on. You love seafood!”
“I love seafood that’s not drowning,” he countered.
Rolling your eyes, you took the bite yourself, humming in satisfaction. “Mmm. Too bad, ‘cause this is incredible.”
Daniel huffed but couldn’t stop smiling. “Fine. But when you inevitably regret it and start eyeing my food, don’t expect me to share.”
You nudged his foot under the table. “Noted. Now, eat your boring pasta before I change my mind and steal it.”
The two of you fell into easy conversation as you ate, the sun casting a warm glow over the café. At one point, Daniel reached for your hand again, absentmindedly tracing circles against your palm while you talked about the most random things—how you should redecorate the apartment, whether or not a croissant counted as a sandwich, if pigeons had secret meetings when humans weren’t looking.
And then, just as you were finishing your meal, Daniel suddenly said, “I wanna take you somewhere after this.”
You blinked. “Oh? Where?”
He smirked. “Secret.”
You raised a brow. “Do I at least get a hint?”
Daniel pretended to think. “Mmm… It’s somewhere I know you’ll love. And it’s a little bit of a walk, but I promise it’s worth it.”
Your curiosity piqued, but you didn’t push. “Alright, mystery man. But if you’re leading me into some weird alley, I’m fighting you, Ricciardo.”
He laughed, eyes crinkling at the corners. “Fair deal. But I promise, you’ll love it.”
And with that, he squeezed your hand one more time, finishing the last bite of his meal with a content smile, looking at you like you were his favorite view in the whole city.
Little did you know, he had been carrying a certain ring in his pocket for months now, waiting for the perfect moment. He could feel the box burning a hole in his pocket, the weight of it heavier than it had ever been. So he took your hand again and kissed your knuckles, right where the ring would soon sit. And as he watched you laugh, looking effortlessly happy, he knew—this was it.
warnings: flirting, age gap (35 y/o + 28 y/o), alcohol
summary: cowboy danny in a western bar 😫
a/n: another scrap from the drafts click the title to hear the song
you’re head was pounding from the loud music in the bar. you had been practically dragged by your friends to go out with them because it had been months since the last time you had ‘let loose and had fun’ in their words. maggie and cass had been with you through everything you all loved eachother like sisters which is why maggie and cass had sat you down hours before this and told you that you needed to give yourself a break.
“hun all you do all day is work, you never go out, you never drink, you never have fun, it’s exhausting even to just watch” you were sat on facetime them as they both watched you work on your computer even after you had gotten off of work. “maggie is right girl you have got to get out.” a hum of agreement came from maggie before cass spoke up again “you know what i think you need? i think you need to get laid” “hey i didn’t want to say it but definitely.” their words making you look over at your phone as it sat in propped up on a plant in the middle of your coffee table so that you could see a clear view of your friends on the facetime while laying on the couch doing your work. your hand reaching over to move your phone closer to you as you spoke “ok well first of all rude and how do you guys know i don’t have a secret man, i could be getting laid on the low and you wouldn’t even know.” the call fell silent before maddie and cass laughed “trust me we would know.” “well why do you say that” you spoke scoffing softly at maggie’s reply. “you can’t keep a secret from us to save your life” your eyes narrowing at the camera as your mouth shut because you knew cass was right. “whatever” your eyes rolling as you propped your phone back up. “ok great so tonight at let’s say 10 at sunset bar is that good for everyone?” “yup sound perfect to me” with your brows furrowed your head whipped over to the facetime once more “wait what? when did we-“ “okay bye love you guys ill pick you guys up around 10 be ready!” maggie raising her voice to be sure you wouldn’t be able to say no as she kissed the camera waving before hanging up, cass doing the same.
you groaned as you made your way through the crowd finally reaching the bar. you didn’t really like going out in general and the fact that it was packed because it’s 11:30 pm on a friday didn’t help. cass and mag were long off dancing with some randoms that they had found. your hand waving down the bartender before you ordered yourself a drink while moving to still on a stool as you waited. the sound of boots hitting the wooden dance floor echoing through the waves of loud country music from the live band on the stage. a wave of strong cologne making you turn to find him. your headache starting to fade when your eyes met, the bartender placing your drink in front of you before taking his order and walking off once more to begin making the drink. his head turned back over to you after he was done speaking to the bartender, “hi i’m daniel” his accent catching you off guard, your facial expression making him laugh as you greeted him with your name. “i take it you aren’t from the U.S.?” you spoke trying to be louder then the music “no no i’m australian im just here for work” he smiled at you as he spoke “oh really, what do you do?” a soft ‘um’ falling from him as he bit his lip looking away from you for a second as if he was thinking “nothing important but i just wanted to come over to you and say i think you’re really pretty” a soft smile painting your lips as you took a sip of your drink “thank you” his head nodding softly as he looked at you before paying the bartender for his drink. you watched as the glass met his lips, his adam’s apple moving as he swallowed making you cross your legs before clearing your throat. you drank the last bit of your drink before hopping off of your stool, moving to walk towards the dance floor slowly as you turned to him “so did you want to come dance with me or did you just want to keep watching me” he smiled, his tongue running along the inside of his cheek before he put his glass down on the bar. his hand moving to your waist as he held you against his side while walking into the crowd of people dancing.
🎃 “purposely suggesting a horror movie (even though they know they themselves hate horror movies) just so they have an excuse to cuddle up for the night” + daniel!! the prompt seems very daniel to me, and i’d love to see your take on it 🙂↕️
HORROR MOVIES, DR3
cw: swearing, no use of y/n
liz's inktober 2024 🦇🎃
"we should watch something scary," daniel suggests.
you whip your head around so you can see him from where you were standing in the kitchen making a bowl of popcorn and give him a look of confusion, bordering disgust.
"dan, you hate horror movies. trust me, you do not want this."
he gives you a look that makes him look and you feel 17 again. "yeah, but it could be fun. you love them and i can always close my eyes or something if i get scared."
you smirked and said, "or something?! daniel ricciardo i swear to god if this is an excuse for you to be right up next to me all night."
he whips up a look of mock offense, so you follow with, "i'm not saying no! one, because you bet i've been waiting to see you scared shitless by a horror movie and two, you don't need an excuse to be close to me, you goof."
he laughs and beckons for you to come over with the popcorn, handing you the remote once you sit on the couch.
"do your worst," he says, as you start to type the conjuring into the tv's search bar while he throws his legs over yours and puts his head on your shoulder.
"okay that's enough worst. don't you think we could start off with something easier?"
"no way! you can't take back what you said because you're a little bitch!"
you feel him turn his face into your neck and groan, which makes you laugh and wrap a hand around his shoulder and kiss the top of his head.
Summary- You're in college when there's an invasion. You and your friend try to find a route to safety but end up being the chosen one to fix this problem. What if you try to find a solution but end up in a different world and don't know how to come back?
{Reader's POV}
I was a simple college student who was trying to get her Masters Degree and be done with this college once and for all. Honestly, I hated the college I went to and I had to settle for it due to my family wanting me to be closer to them instead of going to another one that was in another city since this one was in the city I grew up. I had conceded and right now I hated my college with a burning passion. The only good thing that came out of joining this college was the friend I made along the way.
I was a poor judge of character is what I realised soon after I joined. I had made friends with people who laughed at my expense and the moment someone or this friend in particular stood up for me; all hell broke lose and now I felt like I was in high-school all over again and surrounded by kids who fought about the pettiest of things. That's how me and Rhea became friends. Quite the unusual situation but hey, if I get a life long friend out of it, so be it.
Now today, was just another day. I had texted Rhea whether she would be coming to class or not and since she said she would, I left for college too. What I didn't expect was that in the middle of the day when we were about to head out for lunch the whole college went into lockdown. It was so sudden, we barely had anytime to react. All the students were ushered into the main building and the Principal was stood there with a microphone.
"Students I have gathered you here today to announce that there has been an outbreak of some sort. People are going crazy and harming their friends and family and any one near them. We've been saved since we were all inside, if you go out you will also be harmed and end up contaminated. I advice you all to stay put until we figure something out."
I immediately called my parents and they said that they had safely gotten home and everyone was at home and safe. I informed them that we were in lockdown in the college and that I was perfectly fine, for now.
There was mass pandemonium and hysteria and everyone was screaming. The principal and the college authority were able to settle everyone down eventually and food was rationed out. Me and Rhea found a place for ourselves in the college halls near the classes. We spent the next few hours just chatting away until there was a large alarm that was sounded. We were informed to evacuate the building since people inside were also affected and told to leave. Since the college was shut we were stuck. We saw people killing people and it was unbelievable. I felt like I was in my own sci-fi movie. Me and Rhea started running while actively trying to avoid the swarms of people that were trying to kill anyone and everyone. We found stuff along the way that would help us like knifes and sticks.
After running around for a while, we found a tightly shut room in the next building. We had never been there and it would usually be locked but not this time. We opened the door to an almost empty room and locked it behind us. A few feet away from the door was a latched door. We opened it and decided to climb out of this windowless room. Maybe this would lead to safety. After some time, we ended up running into an old man in the tunnels. Both of us screamed and almost hit the aged man. He was quite short maybe only 4 feet with a hunched back and a stick for support. His beard was long and covered half his body, wearing a grey clock.
"You are just in time" the old man crocked. "Who are you?" we asked calming ourselves down. "I'm here to help you." he said. "We just want to get out of here. We wanna go home" I said. "You are the chosen ones" he whispered. "We are not, we are dumb college students that wanna go home. This isn't fucking dora the explorer or the purge" Rhea huffed. "Children, you must understand, the world is in danger and you can save it. There are somethings you must collect and make your journey forward. There will be a door and it will help you solve the problem at hand. You will need a peacock feather, ash of precious rock, hair of a fair rabbit and last but not the least a stone from the house of the keeper" he announced. "Ok, sir, I don't know anything about this. This sounds straight out of Final Fantasy. We wanna go home" I cried. "You can once you find all this, the first 3 things are close by for the last you will have to travel far and wide from the door ahead. Collect everything and I hope to see you here in an hour" he said pushing us back to where we came from.
"That man is unbelievable. This is real life not fantasy. Let's leave from the main gate, we'll just jump it." I said. Rhea nodded her head in agreement. At the main door we were swarmed with hungry people after our flesh. We quickly ran back to the animal shelter on campus. That's where we found a fair rabbit sleeping. Rhea saw the rabbit and said, "Maybe it is our destiny to save the world." She slowly found a shaver and shaved the rabbit off and put his hair and put it in a zip lock bag. I was ready to go along to anything as long as I had Rhea by my side so then we went to the storage where we found the peacock feather in a box. We then headed to the chemistry lab which had coal; a precious rock which burnt to an ash. We burnt the coal and collected it's ash in a bag.
We threaded the area carefully to end up back in the tunnel where the old man had disappeared. "This was a hoax, I told you. Let's go" I said skeptical. "No, let's go ahead. If there's a door we'll follow his advice, if not, we'll head out" Rhea reasoned. After much deliberation, I agreed. We walked forward and after a long while, I saw the door the old man had talked about. Rhea looked at me, "Let's get the last item" she said and opened the door. I expected to be out of the college campus, maybe on the road. The tunnel ahead lead me to some sub-burbs. An area I had never seen before. I'd grown up in this city, I've seen it expand and grow with me; this area was new and foreign to me.
We walked around until I saw a big white house. It was gorgeous, the structure was tall with many floors and balconies, the porch was lined with many cars and you could see many people going about the house doing stuff. We looked a mess, from the chase that happened to threading an underground tunnel, we looked unkept and unruly. "Shooo, go away." the man at the entrance of the white house gate shooed us. "Ugh, these people, where do they come from?" he muttered. "They hear of our master's kindness and come seeking it" another mumbled. "Please, can you tell us where are we?" I asked. "Oldest trick in the book" the previous man sneered. He started pushing us away, "You'll dirty the place, you are disgusting looking" he said pinching his nose close. We fell from the hard push until a man with striking and approachable appearance crouched to our level. He had a warm smile that radiated friendliness and confidence, with a cheeky grin. His dark hair was tousled and slightly wavy, giving him a relaxed vibe. He had an athletic built. His brown eyes were so warm an inviting. He was wearing a casual outfits, a graphic tee paired with jeans and a leather jacket.
"Are you okay, darling?" he asked. "I'm fine" I muttered, brushing myself off until I felt a sting in my palm only to find them scrapped. The man who helped me stand saw it, "How many times I have I told you to behave? It was some one who needed help and we cannot be pushing the away like this" he reprimanded the man that pushed me. "I'm so sorry about him. Let's get you fixed up" he suggested. "I don't know who you are" I retreated towards Rhea. The man's eyes softened, "I'm Daniel, Daniel Riccardo. I'm the owner of this house" he said pointing at the white house. "I'm sorry about my staff. Let me make it up to you" he suggested. "Y/N, we don't know where we are. We don't know what we are supposed to do. Let's take his help" Rhea whispered. I sighed "If something happens I'm killing you first" I whispered back, she nodded. "Okay" I told Daniel. "Splendid." he announced leading us in.
He asked his staff to get us clothes and a room where we could freshen up. He had a doctor visit us and look at my scrape. We showered, got changed. I changed into a short white flowy dress. We walked out, "this place is huge and beautiful" I whispered. "I know right, the room he's having us stay at is like a 5 star hotel" Rhea whispered back. We were led to the dinner table which was lined with delicacies of various varieties. It was a spread of any and every kind of meal you could think of. "I didn't know what you would like to eat. So, I had them prepare everything" Daniel said. "That would be wasteful" I exclaimed. "Don't worry, there will be no wastage. I never got your names" he said now standing tall in front of me. "I'm Rhea and this is Y/N" Rhea replied. "What a beautiful name" Daniel mumbled taking my hand in his and kissing it. I pulled it back instantly. "What are you doing?" I asked. "Sorry for startling you, but you are very beautiful and I can not seem to take my eyes off you" he said. Daniel was a very attractive man and I would be lying if I said that it didn't affect me. "Shall we eat?" Rhea coughed. I quickly nodded and took a seat opposite to Daniel. I saw his eyes flicker for a moment but I wasn't sure what they wanted to say, so I dug right in. We'd been so hungry, since a lot of time had passed since our last meal and the weird events of the day.
"Thank you for the meal, Mr Riccardo" I thanked him. "Call me Daniel" he purred. "We'll be leaving soon" I stated. "No, please stay. Stay for as long as you need to" he suggested. "That would be over stepping. Thank you for the meal and clothes and for also doing our laundry. We greatly appreciate it" I said. "Why are you saying no to an attractive man that seems to be interested in you." Rhea whispered. "We're here on a mission. We should finish it and leave" I said. "Please do stay" Daniel insisted. "It's already dark" he said. I agreed to stay the night.
We couldn't fall asleep for whatever reason. So, the two of us started exploring the house. It was big and ornate and had paintings and expensive items littering the place. After walking around for a while, I saw something. It felt familiar but it wasn't, I had never seen this before. A stone in a glass case at the end of a long basement. I was about to touch it when, "What are you doing here?" a voice asked. I turned around to find Daniel. Rhea and I had split up a while back. "I got lost" I stammered. "Why are you out of bed so late?" he tsked and wrapped his hand around my shoulder leading me out. "Couldn't sleep" I mumbled. "I make really good camomile tea" he suggested. We walked in silence, back in the kitchen, his staff was cleaning up when we entered. "Continue your work" Daniel announced and asked me to sit on the chair in the corner. He got the kettle going. I could hear the staff whispering, "He doesn't make himself a cup of tea but he'll make her one." I felt small and awkward there. Daniel soon came back with 2 cups of camomile tea, "Let's enjoy this in the garden" he said leading me out. The garden was just as, if not even more beautiful than the main house. He handed me the cup and we sat there sipping in silence. The moon was big and bright, the sky littered with stars. "Where are you from? I've never seen you around and I know everyone here?" he asked. I started choking on the tea. Daniel started rubbing my back and took the cup from me. After I had settled down, "It's ok, you don't have to tell me now. Whenever you're ready. Just promise me you'll stay" he almost begged. I thought about it for a moment before nodding.
The next day, we sneaked out to find the way we came here but that place was no where to be seen. The small hill from which we had emerged had disappeared. We returned sadly to a very worried Daniel, "Where have you been?" he almost shouted. "We were walking around" I lied. "Don't scare me like that" he said and suddenly wrapped me in a hug. I pushed him away, "Daniel" I said. "Sorry, I was just worried. If you're okay then that's fine" he smiled slowly and went in. We had lunch together but the atmosphere was tense.
We'd been here for almost a month now. Daniel was a gracious host but his staff weren't. We could hear them whisper about how we were leeching off of Daniel. When in reality, if I was not in his vicinity he would freak out. I had yet to understand why that was. My friendship with Daniel had deepened. We would spend our sleepless nights walking the garden or hearing Daniel tell me about his adventures. We spent a lot of time together, even Rhea noticed and asked me about it. I wasn't sure what I felt but I knew it felt different.
"What's that stone in the basement?" I asked one day at our nightly stroll. "I have no clue, my family is supposed to guard it till it's rightful owners come" he replied. "Can I see it?" I asked, curiosity getting the best of me. Daniel agreed and led me back to the basement where the stone was and I held it in my hand. Some how, I felt it; like this was mine. I was the rightful owner. I placed the stone back and headed to sleep.
The next day, I spoke to Rhea. "I think the stone we are looking for is in the house's basement" I said. "How do you know?" Rhea asked. "Well, Daniel said that his family was supposed to guard a stone till it's rightful owner came and when I held it yesterday, it felt like it was ours. The stone from the house of the keeper. I believe Daniel is the keeper, I'll get it tonight and then we can leave" I said. Rhea looked elated.
At nightfall I asked to see the stone again. We were standing in the basement when, "You can keep it for now, I know you will keep it safe" he said. "How do you know that?" I laughed. He shrugged, "Even if you don't, I don't care" he said. "I just want you to be happy. I just want you to stay with me. I love you Y/N. I think I fell for you the moment I saw you and that's why I wanted to have you stay. I don't care where you came from or what you do. I just know that I need you" he said. I gulped hard, I wasn't sure what I was supposed to say. "You don't have to say anything, take your time. I'm always here" Daniel explained and we headed back with the stone in my possession.
The next day we tried to find a way out but we were unsuccessful. The next few days, we kept the search up. The whispering among the staff had gotten louder, they said that I was using their master and I had probably cast a spell on him to make him fall for me. That was unbelievable. I couldn't wait to get out of here.
A few weeks later, we found it. A similar tunnel through which we had come. As I stood at it's entrance, I wasn't sure if I wanted to leave, just yet. "let's go" Rhea said, ready to leave. "No, let's wait for a few more days" I said. "What if it disappears?" Rhea sighed exasperated. "It won't" I hoped. I couldn't leave Daniel, I realised that night. As I stood in front of him, his brown eyes bore into mine. "I think I like you too, Daniel" I said abruptly. He looked elated, he cupped my cheeks and leaned in for a kiss. The kiss was warm and soft and familiar. I melted right into his hands.
After the love confession, Daniel was even more tender and loving if that was possible. Rhea wanted to leave, as soon as possible. "I don't think I can leave, I think I love Daniel" I said. "people are dying and we have to save them. We must" she reasoned. "You should leave. I'll stay here" I said. "Don't you miss your family. Won't you miss me?" she asked. "I do and I will but I love Daniel" I said. "I'll wait for you, let's wait for a few more days and then leave" Rhea stated.
We did wait, I only got closer to Daniel. He got me a ring, he showered me in gifts. It overwhelmed me, in a good way. I had never been loved like this. One night just before our nightly stroll, I escaped the house with Rhea. We went to the tunnel and opened the door. When we reached the other side; the old man stood there "Took you long enough" he stated. He took all the things we had collected and started working on it in a huge open field. As the potion simmered, a huge cloud of smoke rose and enveloped everyone and anyone. And then suddenly everything was okay. No more chaos, no more harm. Everything back to normal. "I know you gave what you love to save us, so thank you child" the old man told me. I cried.
Time hadn't passed since we had left. It was like it had stopped. I was able to reunite with my family and even went on to finish my Masters. But I could never forget Daniel. I left all the gifts he got me except the ring; I couldn't get myself to leave it.
One day, I was returning from work when I saw a man that looked an awful lot like Daniel. He was looking around and as our eyes met, he ran to me and hugged me; "I missed you" he whispered in my neck. "Why did you leave me?" he asked. I had tears running down my face. "I love you Daniel, I'm sorry. I had to" I tried to explain. "What happened?" he asked. "I wasn't from your world, I had come there to get the stone so I could save my people." I explained. "Did you?" he asked. "yes" I nodded. "I thought I would go mad when you didn't come to our nightly stroll or when I didn't find you or your belongings in your room" he explained. "I'm sorry" I apologised. "I love you so much, please be mine" he mumbled now crying himself. "I love you too and I'm forever yours" I said. He pressed a kiss against my lip, the feeling was so perfect, like everything just fell into place where it was supposed to be. I saw that old man from afar smiling as he watched Daniel hold me in his embrace.
