SUMMARY: Angst! You know he cheated in your heart so why can't you leave him behind.
PAIRING: Max Verstappen x Leclerc!Reader
A/N: Inspired by Built To Be Bad by Grace Gachot & Alex Sampson. 1.5K+ words
Part: 1
“I know I should cut all ties, but I can’t be cold when I see you cry.”
It had been two months since the night you had left Max standing in the middle of the living room. Charles had gone over a week later and grabbed all the belongings you had left. He had told you the guest bedroom was yours to stay in as long as you wanted. You had thanked him for everything he had done but he wasn't hearing anything of it.
"If it was up to me sis you'd never move out of here. You're telling me I get to spend time with my baby sister and have pictures of myself to post on the daily. Sounds like a dream if you ask me."
This made you laugh and agree to take all the pictures of him possible. The first few weeks had been hard, but you had begun to enjoy having your brother around more. A month into your stay he had already begun pushing you to come to races again. You were hesitant at first not knowing how seeing Max would affect you but Charles reassured you he would be anywhere near the Ferrari garage.
After a month of bugging you, Charles finally got you to agree. So there you sat in the Ferrari garage, camera taking in every shot possible. You have worked with the media team here since Charles was signed, sharing any good photos you took for their official pages. Upon arrival at the paddock, you had VIP all-access passes waiting with special media privileges. It felt as if you had never left and no one mentioned Max. The first week had been great, with no Max sightings except the podium where he was placed 3rd. It was an odd feeling to see him so low on the podium but you didn't care to look further into it.
The second race week had started off just like the first with Ferrari's garage feeling as much like home as before everything happened. You watched the race from the garage with a headset linked to Charles' car. With the cameras in the garage, you could see every part of the action. A blessing and a curse, as you saw Max's car spinning off the track.
Without a second thought, your headset was off and you were running to the Redbull garage. No one stopped you as can in through the back door rushing up to where you saw Max. He was sitting with his hand clutching the roots of his hair. Immediately, you were crouched in front of him lifting his head to see if he was hurt.
Tears streamed down Max's face in frustration. Nothing was right, not since you had left. His racing had been suffering since, never able to get his passing right. It didn't help that he knew you were here, hidden away in the Ferrari garage. Max felt his heart leap out of his chest when he caught a glimpse of you walking in the Charles this morning. He wanted to speak with you, to explain himself, but no one would let him past the doors.
From that moment on he could barely focus on the race. He made turns too fast, did not care who was around him, and almost crashed into other drivers multiple times. Then it all happened, Max had been hit after taking a turn too sharp. The car was still drivable but he was out of the race. Max threw the helmet to the ground as soon as he was out of the car. He collapsed in a chair in the garage as the tears started. At first, he thought he was hallucinating as he felt your soft touch on his cheek. The warm hand cupping his cheek felt too nice, felt like home. It was only when he opened his eyes that he saw your worried look.
"It's you. You're here? Really here."
You could hear the surprise and pain in Max's voice as he looked at you in confusion. Max couldn't believe you were here, not after what he had done. Not after Charles had made it so clear he never would see you again by taking every piece of you he had left the week after that night. You didn't speak, nodding to him a bit as you looked him over for any major injuries. You let out a sigh of relax once your assessment showed only a few minor cuts and places whose bruises were already beginning to form.
As you stood, he stood as well not taking his eyes off you for a second. Internally you scold yourself for getting caught up in the moment, but how could you not when he had once been all you cared for. You shouldn't be here, this was not your place anymore, not your home. With a quick turn, you tried to make an escape but Max had caught your arm and stopped you before you had a chance.
"Please talk to me. Anything will do. I just can't let you leave without it."
Turning back to him you could see the hurt and desperation on his face. He looked tired and with the view you now had of him form, smaller. You wonder if he has been sleeping or even eating properly since you last saw him. There was nothing more you wanted to hug him, to kiss him, to forgive him, but that was impossible. This was not something that could be so easily fixed. A voice came from further back in the garage as the girl from the picture you had seen launched herself into Max's arms. You tugged your arm free from his grasp and softly spoke.
"I'm glad you're not hurt Max. You should take better care of yourself".
With that, you turned and left the Redbull garage as fast as your feet could carry you, leaving a frozen Max in your wake, arm loosely wrapped around the woman in his arms. He wanted to run after you, to explain why she was here but he couldn't get his feet to move. Max would hold on to the hope you still cared about him from that moment forward. Even in interviews, he seemed a bit lighter. It wasn't much, but he would take anything you would offer.
"Now it's 4am as we talk online and I hate myself."
You took another break from the races for the next few weeks not wanting to give yourself any more chance to break your own heart. Max after your interaction seemed to be doing better from what Charles mentioned in passing. Charles had been upset to find out you had seen Max after his accident but he understood why you did it. He saw it as a way of closure for you and he had been right. At least until you received a call late one night.
The annoying chime of your phone had awoken you from a peaceful sleep. Looking at the name on the screen, your stomach dropped. He hadn't even called you the night you left, why was he calling you now? Against your better judgment, you answer the call. The sounds of blaring music and slurred speech were all you could hear as you tried to understand what was happening.
Max had been out celebrating a race win, drinking far too much to remember anything in the morning. Yes, he was celebrating but also trying to forget how these nights used to be spent. He always had more fun showing you off on the dance floor than sitting in a booth with the other drivers. He missed you.
Before his judgement could return your number was already being dialed. He had to tell you that he still loved you. That the other girls meant nothing compared to you. How much he missed your laugh, smile, or even just you presence.
"Hello?"
You finally spoke after a few moments of listening to the call. Max's mouth went dry, he didn't know how to start. How to even begin to beg for forgiveness. As the silence continued you began to hate yourself more and more. You knew he probably called you by accident because all you were to him was an accidental relationship he got over before it had ever even ended. In a moment of anger you yelled into the phone.
"I should kick you the fuck out of my life. Break your heart like you broke mine. But I'm not built to be bad to you."
With that, you hung the phone up as tears began to stream down your face. Max had heard your words over the music, they were bittersweet in his ear. He knew he had really screwed up. Those words had sobered in up as he looked around the club.
Max knew he shouldn't be here, should be at home with you but you weren't there anyways. After you hung up he stood, making his way out of the club and back to his hotel. He hoped tomorrow he could call you again and really apologize, but you never answered his call.
SUMMARY: Lando's best friend can't keep pretending he's not her everything. Not after missing seeing him in person for so long.
PAIRING: Lando Norris X LongDistanceBestfriend!fem!reader
A/N: Inspired by Lando's race win and song Dress by Taylor Swift. 900K+ words. Kinda steamy..... enjoy <3
Part: 1 2 3
"And if I get burned, at least we were electrified"
As the taxi came to a stop in front of the hotel, Lando stepped out holding out a hand to help you out of the car. You smile up at him taking his hand in yours. He guided you through the lobby with practiced ease, and you both made your way to the elevator.
"My hotel is on the fifth floor."
You stated as Lando pressed the button for the eighth. He looked over at you with a smirk.
" You think I'm not taking you to mine after what you said at the club?"
Your cheeks grew pink at what he was hinting. Lando had always been the man of your dreams but to think he could actually be yours had always been out of the question. He lightly chuckled as the elevator opened up on his floor, he loved to see the effect he could have on you.
Once the door to his hotel was closed he was on you. His hands, one placed on your waist while the other cupped your face as his lips pressed against yours. You didn't have a chance to think. His kiss, filled with overwhelming passion, had taken over your thoughts before you could even catch up to what was happening. Lando finally broke away for air with a smile on his face.
"God I've wanted to do that since I first saw you in the paddock."
You smile up at him with a teasing look.
"Well if you hadn't kept me hidden away for you long you could have done that sooner."
Lando's head tilted back in laughter as he knew the driver's or at least a driver's girlfriend had gotten to you this weekend too. He grabs your hand, leads you over to the bed, and sits next to you. His face changes from one of unencumbered joy to one of more cautious vulnerability.
"I need to tell you something so please don't interrupt me till I'm finished or I might lose my courage altogether."
You slowly nod to him to let him know you understand. He had you worried with the look in his eye.
"(Y/N), I've been in love with you since secondary school. I know you have your life here in America, but I can't let you leave without at let trying to get you to come with me."
As he spoke you let out a sigh of relief and a smile grew on your face. He was always oblivious and today solidified that fact. You reach your hand up to his cheek caressing in with your thumb.
"Lando I've been in love with you since secondary school as well. If you think I'm leaving this hotel without you by my side you are just as dumb as the other drivers say you are."
You lean in to kiss him as soon as you finish speaking, putting all your love and emotions into the kiss. Lando immediately starts to kiss you back, quickly taking over the kiss by pushing you back on the bed so that he is hovering over you.
"I woke up just in time. Now I wake up by your side."
After that night in the hotel, Lando had traveled with you back to your apartment from the week in between races. Every morning you would try to be as quiet as possible but somehow Lando always woke up to wish you luck and kiss you goodbye.
You had been out most days as you set up your transfer with your company to their London office. It had always been a part of your plan to move back, but now you just had more reason to do it sooner. At least for now, your office had agreed for you to work remotely for the next couple of weeks unless a case went to trial.
Lando enjoyed waking up next to you every morning even though he knew you would rather him sleep more than wake up with you. You had always been that way, always cared about his well-being more than he did. He couldn't wait to wake up next to you every day.
Once your lease was up on your apartment, Lando insisted you move in with him. At first, you had been hesitant, thinking you two were moving too fast, but you had agreed after a while of him wearing you down. Now you traveled with him to almost every race, no longer his princess locked away in a tower, but still his treasured prize, his love, and soon his wife.
"Made your mark on me, golden tattoo"
After a year of dating Lando popped the question at the very race you had reunited. America will always hold fond memories for the two of you as you both made your way back home, back to each other. The other drivers to this day tease you both about how your being together was their doing. Each one tried to make their claim of having a kid named after them. At first, you and Lando had laughed them all off but the day for baby names came sooner than you had expected.
In the end, you would have your first child 2 years later and two drivers got their wishes granted. Oscar Daniel Norris had his father's eyes and smile but your hair and intelligence. He was the pride and joy of the whole paddock and was spoiled by the drivers every chance they could. You would pout every time they stole your baby away and Lando would laugh before giving you a sweet kiss.
"Now you see why I kept you to myself for so long."
SUMMARY: Angst! You know he cheated in your heart so why can't you leave him behind.
PAIRING: Max Verstappen x Leclerc!Reader
A/N: Inspired by Built To Be Bad by Grace Gachot & Alex Sampson. 1.6K+ words. I promise I like Max lol he's just so easy to write angst for.
Part: 2
Built To Be Bad - MV
"I used to take a hundred photographs. Just to send the perfect one"
Charles always teased you when you took selfies but for you, it was worth it. The perfect picture took time and you knew that from years of being a photographer. Even if it was only going to be seen by one person you could help yourself, especially when that one person was Max.
You had known Max almost your whole life from the weekends you spent at the karting track with your brothers. He had always been a constant but over time the friendship you two had developed evolved into more. Charles hadn't been happy to see his rival and sister together at first but he accepted it.
Now your time at the paddock was split between the Redbull and Ferrari garages. Seeing them racing against each other was always exhilarating but slightly painful as one would always have to lose to the other. You had stood by Max's side through his first years in F1, hearing all his frustrations, the good, bad, and ugly.
When you weren't able to be by his side you made sure to always send him pictures of your day and what you had done. That is where your love of photography actually starts just recording your life for him.
"I felt a hundred butterflies. Every time your name came up."
Not being able to travel to every race was normal if not expected in the f1 world. Those times away from each other only made your time together more important. When you were away from the Max you two made sure to always text constantly and call almost every night. See his name pop up on your phone always brightens your mood.
You felt like you could float away some days with how happy you felt having Max as your boyfriend. In the beginning of your relationship it felt like butterflies had inhabited your stomach the moment he spoke to you. Now it was more a relaxing wave washed over your body. You would still blush when your friends brought up Max but it was nice.
“Three more years than you deserved, nervous when you never were.”
Max was never nervous when it came to you. How could he be when you had followed him around for years without any sight of of leaving. That’s probably why things took the turn they did. He could never imagine you leaving him no matter what he did. At first it had put him at ease because he knew how much you loved him but as time passes he began to take the for granted. Ever since his first world championship 3 years ago he had slowly started to care less about you.
You had always been nervous around Max. He was talented, smart, attractive, and even though some would disagree, kind. It didn’t take much for you to become a nervous mess in from of him. A stolen glance that lasted a bit to long or even the way he with brush his hand across your back as he would pass would do you in. You love how calm he was in every situation, he was your calm. The calm you felt has slowly drifted away as time went on to the point you didn’t even know when it had started.
“Just one of like a hundred girls, you’ll never know how much it hurt.”
Over time Max stopped calling you on nights you didn’t travel with him to races making excuses. Most of the time it was just that he had been so tired that he had fallen asleep. You understood that his job could be very tiring but that had never stopped him before. Even when he was home you started to notice he was more distant than normal. He touched you less, did want to go on dates anymore, and barely listened when you spoke.
One day you were ordering something for the house but had left your wallet in the car so you asked to borrow his card to place the order. He had dismissively nodded not realizing what you had actually asked. That was until he heard a soft gasp coming from where you stood.
“When I saw her photograph next to mine. She had cocoa hair laying by your side.”
You couldn’t believe what was in your hands. Max has always kept a picture of you in his wallet. One of the many you would send him. He usually would trade them out over time choosing a new favorite. When you saw it sticking out of the bill portion of the wallet you were curious about which one he had chosen.
As you went to pull it out you notice there were two instead of one. Thinking nothing of it you pull both out. The first was one you had taken a year or so back smiling on a sidewalk in downtown Monaco while out shopping with some friends. You were surprised he still had one that was old in his wallet but knew the other would probably be newer as you moved the second to the front.
The moment you looked at the photo you froze with a small gasp escaping in shock. It wasn’t you on the phone but a girl with cocoa brown hair. She smiled up at the camera while Max, your Max, was kissing her cheek. Before you could even fully process what you had seen Max was snatching the wallet and photos out of your hands.
“You said she’s a friend for the hundredth time, but I saw your face and your face don’t lie.”
“She's just a friend”
Max said while putting both photos back in their place. You looked at him for a moment before responding. He looked nervous, for the first time in years Max was nervous.
“So you just carry pictures of random people now?”
You were so confused. Who was she? When was it taken? What does this mean for you? Max broke your train of thought to correct you.
“She is not some random person, like I said she's a friend.”
The defense in his voice along with the look he was giving you told you all you needed to know. You nodded your head slowly making Max think you believed him. He sighed in relief taking a step toward you but you quickly backed away. You wanted to be angry at him, yell, maybe even cuss him out but all you felt was heartbroken.
“I’m going to stay with Charles for a while, he's been wanting me to come over. I am going to go pack my bag.”
With that, you quickly walked to your shared bedroom and locked the door before Max could get in. You could hear Max on the other side banging on the door but you couldn’t make out what he was saying. Grabbing your phone, you quickly call your brother. He answered almost immediately in a cheerful tone.
“Hey sis, what up? Shouldn’t you be all over Max around this time.”
You let out a small sob that has your mask cracked a bit. He was right, you barely called him when Max was home, usually wanting to spend as much time as possible with the Dutchman.
“Charles, can you come get me? I need to get out of here.”
You could hear the immediate sound of him grabbing his keys as you spoke. He didn’t know what was happening but if you were calling him, he would be there. The door to his apartment slamming shut could be heard through the phone as he raced out.
“I’m on my way sis. Don’t hang up.”
You nodded like Charles could see you as you began to grab all your necessities from around the room and stuffed them into bags. By the time your brother arrived you had all you camera equipment packed along with clothes and any other important items packed into two separate bags. You heard him storm into the house like a hurricane. He was yelling at Max accusing him of so many different things when you open the door with your bags in hand.
Max noticed your presence first, trying to get to you before Charles shoved him back and yelled at him not to even think about getting close to you. Charles looked him up and down one more time before speaking to you without taking his eyes off Max.
“The car is out front. Go ahead and get in it, I’ll be there in a second.”
You went to argue that he should just come with you but you knew he wasn’t going to listen to you. Taking one more look at Max you did as you were told and turned to leave the apartment.
“Please liedje just let me explain.”
Max exclaimed in desperation as you left but you didn’t even spare him another glance knowing if you did you would crumble. Charles on the other hand as soon as you were out the door laughed.
“I hope whatever you did was worth it cause you won’t be seeing my sister again.”
Max saw red at the Ferrari driver’s statement. He quickly cleared the distance between them to punch Charles in the face but your brother was prepared. Before Max even had a chance to swing, Charles had his fist firmly planted in his stomach.
“Don’t be stupid Max, what would she think if you punched her brother too.”
With a sly smirk on his face Charles strolled out the door as Max doubled over in pain. By the time he had gotten to the car you had already started crying. The satisfaction he felt quickly disappeared as he saw the state you were in. Getting the driver seat he silently started the engine and began to drive. He wanted to know what had happened but you need time and he would respect that.
SUMMARY: Lando's best friend can't keep pretending he's not her everything. Not after missing seeing him in person for so long.
PAIRING: Lando Norris X LongDistanceBestfriendfem!reader
A/N: Inspired by Lando's race win and song Dress by Taylor Swift. 2.6k+ words (Honestly thought it would be shorter lol) LMK in the comments if you would like a pt.3!
Part: 1 2 3
"Inescapable, I'm not even gonna try."
From the moment you were in Lando's arms, he never let go more than he had to. While showing you around the McLaren garage he made sure to guide you through with slight touches or nudges in the right direction. You knew there was no way he was letting you out of his sight. With his hand placed firmly on the small of your back, he explained every corner of the garage in painstaking detail while knowing you probably didn't really care. Something about the way you attentively listen though made it seem like you hung on his every word.
Really, you had just missed his voice. Phone calls could only do so much to make up for the distance between you two. It had been something you both had gotten used to over time. Now you didn't know if you could ever go back to not being beside him. The hours before the race started passed faster than you had hoped they would. Something just clicked when you were together like you had never been apart in the first place.
Soon you watched from the side as Lando talked with the engineers and strategists about the race plan. You had seen him in racing attire before, back in secondary school, but the memory did not prepare you for just how good he looked. He couldn't stop smiling, not when he felt your gaze on his every move. After he had finished talking to everyone, he made his way back over to you with a headset in hand.
"Here let me put this on you, it connects to the radio in my car so you can hear me during the race."
You nodded along in understanding as he placed the headset on your head and fixed it to the correct settings. Earlier, Lando had told you they recently made upgrades to the car and that it would be the first race to test them. This made you hopeful for the results of the race, you knew how much Lando wanted a win. The excitement of everyone in the garage could be felt as they made final preparations.
"You're gonna do great Lan, I just know it."
You beamed up at him with the widest smile possible. Lando couldn't help but smirk a bit letting your confidence boost his own. He reached to stroke your cheek as he spoke.
" Of course I will, I've got you here to cheer me on. I always do better when I know you're watching the race. Just imagine how I'll do today with you actually here."
You look away feeling yourself start to blush while trying to figure out how to respond to that. Luckily, Lando's name was called as the race was about to start. Quickly, you stand and swiftly peck his cheek whispering good luck in his ear before pushing him towards the calling engineers. He looked back, shaking his head a bit before jogging to put his helmet and other stuff on.
"My hands are shaking from holding back from you"
Watching a race in person was exhilarating for you. The energy in the garage made every turn, overtake, and pit stop more suspenseful. Getting to hear Lando’s voice through it all made the race even more real. He hadn’t had a good start to the race but was quickly making up for it by getting the fastest lap multiple times.
A crash happened towards the back of the race resulting in a safety car being put onto the track. Lando had already passed the pit when the car was released, giving him an edge. Once the race started again his engineer was avid about keeping a gap between him and Max. As the final laps dwindled, you felt overcome with hope. This could be it, Lando’s first win.
As Lando crossed the finish line you heard his cheers over the radio. The joy and relief was evident as you knew how long he had waited for this.
One of the mechanics was kind enough to escort you over to where the winners would park their cars. The whole McLaren garage ended up walking together to the spots. Once you all arrived, you slipped a bit away. As much as this was Lando’s win it was theirs and they didn’t need some random girl in the middle of their celebration.
You watch from your spot as Lando pulls up and stands on the top of his cars. The crowd was cheering his name and many drivers made a beeline for him after parking their own cars. It was clear how loved he was not only by his own team but by everyone here. His large smile would forever be etched into your mind as he received hugs from everyone and even started a crowd surf with the McLaren employees. Your hand were shaking with all the excitement built up in your system.
Everything was perfect, at least you thought so, but you noticed Lando kept looking around. Was there a specific driver he was looking for or some important person?
Lando was on cloud nine getting out of his car parked in P1. He was a race winner after so long fighting for this moment it felt right to have you here. He wanted to find you and celebrate as soon as possible.
As all the drivers came up to him he wanted to soak in the moment but he just kept looking around for you. Were you still at the garage? Turning to see the McLaren team waiting behind the barrier he knew what they were waiting for.
Starting at a full sprint he launched himself into their awaiting arms. It was then on top of his teammate he caught a glimpse of you off to the side with a smile as bright as the sun. As soon as he was back on his feet he was making his way to you.
When Lando’s eyes found you it was like time stopped for a few moments. Before you knew it he was headed straight for you. He crashed into you, wrapping you up in a bone-crushing hug while lifting you off your feet. You squeal a bit as he begins to spin you both around before tilting your head back to laugh.
“You did it Lan! You won!”
Lando set you back on the ground as you started to speak. He could see the spark of joy in your eyes as you spoke.
“Told you I’d do better with you here”
Lando exclaimed, smirking as he looked down at you in admiration.
“Knowing you were cheering for me made all the difference. I couldn’t disappoint you after you came all this way.”
You rolled your eyes at his comment, he could never disappoint you. It didn’t matter to you whether he came in first or very last place as long as he was happy. Before you could tell him that a staff member came up to grab Lando for his post win interviews. He nodded to let them know he was on his way and let you know he’d be only about half an hour. Calling another McLaren mechanic over, he asked if they would see you back to his driver room after the podium till he was finished with the media.
With that he was off and you followed the mechanic over to where the podium celebration was to be held. The ceremony was amazing as the two other drivers covered Lando head to toe in champagne. He didn’t even have a chance to open his before the other two started their assault which made you laugh. Once they had moved on to their next victim, Lando walked to the front of the podium doing his signature move to start spraying the champagne all over the crowd before spraying the other driver as well.
"I don't want you like a best friend"
The interviews didn’t take long so Lando was back and ready to leave the paddock not long after arriving. Oscar had been sneaky when helping you book a hotel for your stay and you were apparently staying at the same place as the drivers were.
Lando noted to thank Oscar again as he ushered you to his car stopping along the way to sign autographs and take pictures. He filled you on the plans for tonight as you drove and what time to be ready by.
Once at the hotel, you went to your separate hotel rooms to get ready. You pulled a dress out of your suitcase packed specifically for this see Lando again. It was a beautiful purple dress that hugged the top of your torso while still being flowy. After taking a shower and getting ready you texted Lando to let him know. Turns out most of the drivers were already dressed and down in the lobby. Quickly you grabbed your clutch and made your way down.
Lando was smiling as he put his phone away after answering your text. He and a couple other drivers had finished getting dressed early so they were in the lobby while waiting for the rest. He felt a nudge on his shoulder and found all the other drive smirking at him with knowing eyes. Max was the one to speak up always most blunt when it came to feelings.
"So are you gonna tell her how you feel or are you just gonna let her go again?"
He didn't know much about your friendship with Lando but he knew the younger boy was smitten. The other drivers piled on words of encouragement and how they could tell you liked him back. The more the others added, the pinker Lando's cheeks got until he finally defended himself.
" I just don't want to lose her guys. Now shut up she is on her way down."
The other drivers chuckled while shaking their heads but they left Lando alone after that which he was thankful for. Looking around he noticed you starting to make your way over and stopped in his tracks. He hadn't forgotten how beautiful you were but in that dress, it was like you were enchanted. He knew Max was right, he wanted more from you than just a friendship, he always had. Ever since that day in secondary when he had introduced himself he had wanted more, to know you more, hear your laugh more, be near you more.
The sound of laughing gave away their location long before you saw the group. From the looks of it, they had been teasing Lando about something as his face was lightly pink. He was looking towards the ground wearing all black and a backward cap. It made you smile a bit at how flustered he seemed by whatever they had said. Only a few seconds had passed when he caught your presence.
You grew a little nervous under his gaze and began to play with the hem of your dress as you came to a stop in front of him. Looking up into his eyes, a mostly green color now, you softly whispered
"Hey, Lan."
You clear your throat while tearing your eyes away from his to speak to the whole group.
"Hey guys, everyone ready to celebrate?"
The other driver let out a cheer and Carlos showed up a moment later. Apparently, he was the last one the group was waiting on so everyone began to decide how we were getting to the club.
“Only bought this dress so you could take it off”
Once at the club the boy immediately went to grab drinks while you stayed back with the other drivers' girlfriends. Girlfriends. Something you could only wish to be. They were nice and asked many questions about how you were, what you do, and how long you have known Lando. You explained with ease the timeline that led you here. Lily was the first to speak, seeming to be a bit in shock.
"Wait, you're the mysterious best friend? The one Lando has kept hidden away like a treasured prize?"
The other girl nodded in agreement at her statement. Had Lando been too embarrassed to talk about you? You felt a bit ashamed for a moment looking down. Lily was the first to notice, adding on with a kind smile and a bit of laughter.
"Oh, no! It's not a bad thing! Trust me. He lights up anytime you even text him. It's more like he doesn't want to share you honestly. I was just surprised he finally let the princess out of her tower to be seen by the rest of us. That boy is head over heels-"
Before Lily could finish her sentence you felt an arm snake around your waist. You turned assuming it would be Lando but you had been mistaken. The man before you was taller with brown eyes and reddish-brown hair.
"Hey, wanna go dance with me beautiful?"
The man smiled as he looked you up and down. He wasn't a bad-looking guy, not as handsome as Lando though. Someone else probably would have agreed, but someone else wasn't in love with their best friend. You tried to step away as his hand on your waist just felt wrong but he was able to grab onto your arm before you were fully free.
"Oh come on, just one dance couldn't hurt. I doubt your friends would mind."
You tried to pull your arm free but his grip was firm. The panic started to set in as you looked to see where Lando was. He would help, he would always save you.
"Her friends might not mind but her boyfriend definitely will."
A familiar voice called from behind you as your head snapped toward it in relief. There he was, your Lando, he looked pissed, flanked by an annoyed-looking Max and an angry-looking Carlos. The man quickly released your arm and turned to storm off with a scoff. You stumbled back a bit before Lando caught you. With no hesitation, he wrapped his arms around your waist before leaning down to speak in your ear.
"Can't let you out of my sight for a minute without someone trying to steal you huh?"
Your face turned bright red as you turned to him feeling a wave of confidence. Was he jealous? The look on his face was downright murderous at least. Wrapping your own arms around his neck, you leaned up to speak in his ear.
"We both know you're the only person this dress would come off for."
Lando stood in shock for a moment as his grip tightened on your waist. It only took a moment for his lips to crash into yours. You could taste the alcohol he had been drinking and feel how tense his body was before he relaxed into the kiss. Sure, you had kissed other guys before but never had anyone kissed you with so much overwhelming passion. Breaking away from the kiss he sighed.
"How about we get out of here?"
You can only nod still thunderstruck by how passionately he had kissed you. Lando smirked at the effect he has on you while leading you over to the group of driver not far away.
"Hey guys, were gonna head out."
The drivers look in between the two of you with knowing glances and exchange goodbyes with Lando as you two start to leave. You look back and wave goodbye to everyone as Lily gives you a thumbs-up. Blush rushes to your face as you both get into the taxi with Lando giving the hotel's address. You can't help but stare at him in the moonlight. He glances down at you with a smile.
" You know I'm never letting you go, right?"
You smile up at him with love-struck eyes. At this moment you decide, you would do want ever needed to stay by his side from then on. The company you worked for has offices abroad, and you could travel if needed, you would do anything to stay like this.
SUMMARY: Angst: After your break up you take time to reflect on the man you once thought hung the stars. Who knew another would help you find the beauty in the stars as they fell.
PAIRING: Ex!Max Verstappen X fem!reader, Charles Leclerc x reader at the end.
A/N: Inspired by Mr. Perfectly Fine by Taylor Swift. Experimenting with formatting so please let me know if it helps with reading! 2.8k+ words... I apparently can't write anything smaller let me know if you all would rather have it in thousand-word parts instead of one long post!
"Mr. "Perfect Face" Mr. "Here to stay""
"You're so beautiful liefje"
Max hummed in the crook of your neck as you lay back on his chest while watching a movie. These moments were your favorite, the quiet murmurs, and gentle touches while enjoying each other company. The times when you had him all to yourself with no cameras or teammates looking at you both.
"Look who's talking pretty boy"
You responded back with a playful smirk knowing he hated being called pretty.
"Only pretty liefde really. I'm offended"
All you could do was giggle before looking back at your boyfriend to find him clutching his chest like you would imagine an old lady clutching her pearls.
"Oh I'm so sorry, I didn't know being pretty was a bad thing now"
Faking an innocent look as you apologized for your disrespectful comment. You wanted to see how far you could tease before he reacted. Already he looked like he was mulling over whether or not to accept you heartfelt apology.
"Of course pretty could never fully articulate how a face as perfect as your looks. I again am so sorry for the offen-"
"Oh that's it!"
You were interrupted by being picked up and tossed on the couch beside him before he was on top of you looking done. With a smug smirk on his face, he pinned your hands above your head with one hand before starting to tickle you with the other.
"You gonna really apologize now"
You couldn't help but laugh as he poked and squeezed your sides till you were gasping for breath. His laughter echoed in your ears as he continued to torture you.
"I-I'm sorry p-please max"
You finally gasped out and he stopped still chuckling before leaning down to peck your lip quickly.
"That's what I thought"
He declared with a look of triumph on if face. You study his face for a moment with a soft smile before you glance over to see you already looking at him.
"What, liefde?"
Max questioned, his eyes filled with curiosity. You shrugged before answer as if it was the most common phrase ever spoke.
"I just wish we could stay like this forever. Here. Just the two of us."
He softly smiled back at you taking in how relaxed and angelic you looked in the soft glow of the TV.
"Well, I don't plan on going anywhere without you. I'm here to stay as long as you'll have me."
"Mr. "Change of heart" Mr. "Leaves me all alone""
You had never minded Max having to travel to races it was a part of his job. He used to love you tagging along with him to the races, being in the paddock with all the other girlfriends and wives of the other racers, and going back to the hotel with him after to help him relax after a long day. It made sense that you wouldn't be at every race but recently it seemed like he didn't want you there at all.
There was always some last-minute reason he needed to be at the track days before free practice started and you couldn't get off work in time before he had to leave. Trips started to become longer and longer to the point he was never home. You tried your best to understand but you missed him.
You talk on the phone when possible but they were always short. He always had an excuse why he had to go. The engineers needed to talk to him about the car, Checo was waiting on him for a video, or he had made plans to hang out with one of the other drivers.
"Mr. "Never had to see me cry" Mr. "Insincere apology so he doesn't look like the bad guy""
At some point, you stopped trying to call him and just resorted to texting him. His responses were few and hours apart with a made-up reason why he hadn't answered. You were beginning to lose hope when your phone rang one day. The excitement in your voice was evident when answering the call.
"Hey Max, how's the race going?"
He sighed in annoyance that you even asked.
"Yeah it's fine, look we need to talk"
You took a step back at his tone. He was cold or maybe even angry. This wasn't like him at all at least not the side of him you knew.
"O-okay yeah. What's up? Everything alright?"
You were panicking a little worried something bad had happened. Was he hurt? Did something happen at the track?
"Look I just don't think this is really working out. I think we should end things."
You froze in shock, this had to be a joke right? He did just say that. All you could get out was a whisper like your voice had been stolen and tears started to well up in your eyes.
"W-What?"
Another sigh came from his side of the phone. As if this was becoming a more tedious conversation than he had planned.
"We just aren't the same anymore you know. I'm sorry, I need someone less clingy, someone who understands what I do for a living."
There was a pause as you heard another voice before he continued
"I got to go, Christian wants to talk about something. I'll send you any stuff you left in my apartment when I get back. Bye."
"Cause I hear he's got his arm 'round a brand-new girl. I've been picking up my heart, he's been picking up her"
The last few weeks had been nothing but painful. Ever since the break up you've had several people calling and texting you. From the girlfriends and wives you used to spend time with in the paddock check to see if you're okay to random acquaintances wanting to hear all the dirty details. It made you sick thinking about that call, you thought that would be the worst of it until you got a text from Charles Leclerc.
At first, you thought he was just another person trying to figure out what had happened. You had spoken to him multiple times and were able to joke around with each other before everything happened but you weren't surprised. At least you weren't until you opened up the messages.
Hey, I know you probably want to be left alone, but I don't want you to get blindsided by seeing later. Max is seeing someone else.
None of us knew until yesterday when he brought her to the paddock and started introducing her to everyone.
I just wanted to let you know instead of you finding out through the media.
All the healing you thought you had done crumbled like a house of cards. The tears started to fall before you even got to read the last message. It hadn't even been a full month. How could he have moved on so fast? Through tear-blurred gaze you decided to respond to Charles.
Thank you for letting me know.... I appreciate your honesty. You're right I would like to be left alone.
I'm glad to have met you and everyone else, but I can't keep talking to you all. It hurts too much, too many memories.
Hope you have a great race, Charles..... Thank you again.
Charles felt a pang of guilt reading those messages. You had always been kind to him and seemed to care a lot about everyone you came in contact with. He felt angry at Max on your behalf and wanted to help you in any way possible.
You are an amazing person chérie. I know you want to be alone but I can't abide by your wishes. Please let me be there for you.
We don't have to talk about anything in particular, just tell me about your day or we can talk about our hobbies. Just let me be here for you, please?
It took you a moment before responding to the process. Charles wasn't a bad guy from what you knew of him. You had been isolating yourself from everyone the last couple of weeks not wanting to talk about everything. Maybe having someone to talk to about normal life would be nice? A sigh of defeat left as you messaged him back.
okay.... so what do like to do in your free time?
Charles softly smiles at your message. It was a start and he'll take it. He responded back quickly telling you about how he likes playing the piano and how he had released a few songs. This was a pleasant surprise for you and you told him you listen to them.
"Oh, he's so smug, Mr. "Always wins" So far above me in every sense."
The end of the racing season came quicker than you could have imagined. You and Charles had become closer than you had ever expected. He was there for you to cry to and laugh with and as your heart mended he filled in the cracks still seeping sorrow with his own love and compassion.
Sitting on a stool in his kitchen while he tried to cook you dinner, you couldn't help teasing him for his terrible cooking skills. He mocked you back at how inept you were when it came to baking. The conversation lulled as he began to focus on not burning the food before he hesitantly brought up the award ceremony.
"If it's too soon I understand, but I would love for you to be my date."
You took a moment to consider the proposition. As long as you were in Charles' life Max would be in yours. You knew you would have to see him sooner or later, so why not now? With your decision made you smiled a bit.
"I would love to be your date, Charles. This is your night to celebrate a great season. I wouldn't miss it for the world."
The night arrived sooner than you had anticipated and there you were walking on Charles' arm in a velvet red dress looking in his words like an angel. You held the compliment close as you made your entrance together.
Friends and acquaintances were rightfully shocked at your attendance. They quickly came to hug you and let you know how happy they were to see you before you all were seated for the ceremony. It felt good to be around everyone again, you had missed them. Missed the funny moments and heartfelt chats. The night seemed to be shaping up to a great time.
Max made a speech when accepting his WDC trophy. He made sure to thank a woman named Kelly, who you assumed was his girlfriend, along with the normal thank you to his team.
He seemed so calm, relaxed, and perfectly fine. It had only been a few months, how could you still be recovering while he was at ease. You felt so small and lowly at that moment, looking up at him at the top of his career.
Charles, of course, noticed like he always did and grabbed your hand in his with a soft squeeze before running his thumb across your knuckles. Once the ceremony ended, the people who had not noticed you before came to say hello while others said their goodbyes.
"Now I'm Ms. "Gonna be alright someday" and someday, maybe you'll miss me. But by then, you’ll be Mr. “Too late”."
Max stood near the front smiling as he talked to some of the other racers. He was dressed in a simple black suit with a bow tie to match and a beautiful woman on his arm. You could see why he liked her, she was gorgeous and seemed to fit perfectly beside him. As the commotion around your appearance began to reach an all-time high, he looked to see who it was about.
Never did he expect to see you, in a criminally perfect red dress that hugged your curves in all the right places, hanging on to none other than Charles Leclerc. He couldn't have stopped himself from staring if he wanted to. You looked amazing and he could tell you smile was genuine.
The sharp sting of past memories hit him as he studied your body language. So open, warm, and cheerful as you spoke you Lily, he realized how much he had missed you. Once your eyes locked it was over, your grip on Charles' arms tightened as Max strides forward completely leaving his girlfriend behind.
Charles noticed your discomfort, immediately following your gaze. He thought something might happen, Max would never just let you attend without having something to say. Looking down while shaking his head, he swore so quietly you barely heard before leaning close to your ear.
"Let me know if you want to leave. It's okay if you don't wanna talk to him."
Looking up at him, you softly smiled at how empathetic he was about your feelings. The worry in his eyes was evident but you had prepared for this. Resting a hand on his chest you shook your head.
"No, it's okay. Let's just get it over with and have a great night."
“Goodbye, Mr. “Casually Cruel”, Mr. “Everything revolves around you”.”
Max's blood boiled as he watched you touching Charles. How did you even know him? You had barely spoken to the Ferrari driver during your relationship. When did you get so close to him? He would find out soon enough as he drew closer.
"Charles"
He nodded to the driver after coming to a stop in front of the pair before glancing over at you.
"What are you doing here Leifde"
He hadn't meant for that to come out but it still felt natural to call you that even after all this time. It sent a surge of anger through you to have him call you that again.
"I'm not your Leifde anymore Max. You lost the right to call me that. Would hate for your girlfriend to hear you."
You sneered back like venom making it clear you did not appreciate the name. He smirks at your reaction, loving that he still has an effect on you. Turning to look back at Charles he decided to try and get a raise out of him. After all, he's the reason your here right.
"What couldn't find your own date so you settled for my ex?"
Charles' composure snapped at that. How dare Max speak about you in such a disrespectful manner. You, even on your worst nights, couldn't say a negative comment about this man and here he was acting like you were damaged goods. He went to step forward and get in Max's face when you held him back getting in between the two placing both hands on his chest. Looking up at him, hoping he would understand what you were planning to do.
"He's not worth it, amour."
You loudly spoke the last word to get Charles' attention. He snapped his head down to you at the sound of his native language on your tongue. With a cheeky smirk on your face, you lean up to whisper in his ear.
"Please just play along."
There was a hint of mischief he caught in your eye as you moved one hand slowly up to the back of his neck.
"Mon chéri, let's just go home. I wanna slip into something more...comfortable"
Not only did this make the Dutchman scoff from behind you but also stormed off mumbling something under his breath. Charles can’t take his eyes off you, not when had just hinted at being a couple to get Max to leave. He didn’t mind it. If he was honest, he had actually enjoyed the way it felt to have you holding on to him all night. You let out a sigh of relief once he was gonna looking back up at Charles. Taking a small step away you started to apologize before being cut off.
“Come on ma belle fille, let’s get you home.”
Charles smiled a sweet smile grabbing your hand to usher you out of the room.
“Goodbye, Mr. “Perfectly Fine”.”
As you and Charles arrived at your house, he broke the comfortable silence of the driver. He looked like at scolded puppy as he began to talk.
“I’m glad you came with me tonight. Sorry I almost lost my cool at the end there.”
You snicker a bit before hanging him a half shrug.
“Honestly, it felt great to put Max in his place so thank you.”
He chuckled a bit in response while shaking his head slightly. Max was an idiot for losing you and Charles wasn’t gonna make the same mistake.
“Glad you had a good night Cheri. I know this might be too soon but could I possibly take you on a date? “
He pause hesitantly before continuing to ramble on
“If it’s too soon I completely understand but I couldn’t let my chance to show you how much I liked you pass without at least-“
You cut him off by grabbing his face, pulling him in for a kiss. At first, the shock of you kissing him caused him to freeze but he quickly recovered, kissing you back with so much passion that you were left speechless. Smiling as you both pulled apart, he had to be certain.
“So, is that a yes?”
You threw you head back laughing before confirming.
“Yes Charles, I would love to go on a date with you.”
SUMMARY: Lando's best friend can't keep pretending he's not her everything. Not after missing seeing him in person for so long.
PAIRING: Lando Norris X LongDistanceBestfriendfem!reader
A/N: Inspired by Lando's race win and song Dress by Taylor Swift. First time publishing my fanfics so I’d love to hear what you think! Almost 2K..... I'll do a pt.2 cause I still have more thoughts on Lando with this song.
Part: 1 2 3
"Our secret moments in a crowded room. They got no idea about me and you"
Lando couldn't stop smiling at his phone in the paddock, not when you were the one texting him. All the drivers knew about his best friend, who they never got to meet.
"She's a busy person"
He would declare anytime they teased him about meeting you or asked if you were coming to a race. It wasn't that he didn't want you to come or that he didn't want you to meet the other drivers, more he didn't want to share your time. He wasn't lying to them per se you were busy and had moved to America for university as soon as you both had graduated secondary school. It didn't matter he had never actually invited you to a race.
"I'm spilling wine in the bathtub. You kiss my face and we're both drunk"
He could remember the night or well day you left like it was yesterday. The night before your flight, he had stayed over to spend as much time with you as possible. The giggles you made sneaking back into your room after your parents had gone to bed were almost as intoxicating as the wine you had brought back. You both stayed up drinking and reminiscing over the years you had spent together.
Somehow you had both ended up in the bathroom attached to your room. Too drunk to sit let alone stand, you had made yourself comfortable in the bathtub while he was seated beside you leaning up against it. He doesn't remember what was said or how it happened, but he will never forget how soft your lips felt against his or how you sighed after the kiss with a dopey grin as if a weight had been lifted off your chest.
The next morning he woke up in your bed but you were nowhere to be seen. A note on the bedside table along with some pain meds was all that was left.
Tried to wake you to say bye before my flight, but you wouldn't wake up. I don't know how much we drank but I've got a killer headache and can't remember anything so thanks for that. Text me when you wake!
Love,
Y/N
You had always kept in contact but he never would tell you what happened that night. He didn't want to lose you even if that kiss would haunt him every time he closed his eyes. You managed the time difference well, never judging the other for being up or asleep at random times throughout the day.
Late-night calls when you wanted to tell him something funny between classes changed to funny things your friends had done once you graduated from university. Even the early morning drunken messages he'd get around the time he woke up were moments he cherished. He missed having you next to him. Wished you would come home, but you have your life now in America and found a good job after university.
"All of this silence and patience. Pinning and desperately waiting"
Little did Lando know, the other drivers had stolen his phone and gotten your number long ago just waiting for the right moment to use it. Daniel was the first to reach out and introduce himself explaining Lando had wanted to let you know his phone had died.
You had shrugged it off, with how much Lando talked about the other driver it didn't seem that surprising to you that Lando had given your number to him. It was no surprise to Daniel how friendly and kind you were, but how smart you were was a shock. He never would have imagined their little Lando was friends with a lawyer.
Carlos and Oscar followed soon after hearing more about you from Daniel. They both said they wanted to get some stories of Lando as a kid to make fun of him so they begged Daniel for your number and to not tell Lando. You had a laugh retelling stories to them both that you knew Lando would be embarrassed about.
Max and Charles on the other hand had respected Lando's privacy when it came to you until they were added to a group chat with you made by Oscar without Lando's knowledge.
You didn't speak to the other drivers much in the group chat so you had forgotten it existed most of the time. They would send you pictures of Lando doing goofy things every once in a while, but that was about it. Never once did you think to mention it to Lando, it was a little secret look into his world and the photos gave you a way to know he was having fun. They reminded you of all the good times you both had shared together.
"Flashback when you met me. Your buzzcut and my hair bleached. Even in my worst times, you could see the best in me."
Secondary school hadn't started out easily for you, having moved away from all of your primary school friends. As a farewell, you all decided to color each other's hair. You had ended up a platinum blonde which made you stand out even more on the first day of school. Making new friends was hard at first. Most of the time you felt alone in a sea of unfamiliar faces.
It was probably the worst time of your life looking back. At least until a boy with a cheeky grin and sassy comebacks made it his mission to befriend you. At first, you didn't know what to make of the boy. Turned out his friend group had done something similar to yours but had buzzed all their hair off instead of dyeing it. He saw the girl with good grades who sat alone every day not as a freak like everyone else but as someone worth taking a chance on. You had no right to fall as fast as you did, but you couldn't help it. He was funny, kind, and well perfect.
"Flashback to my mistakes. My rebounds, my earthquakes. Even in my worst lies, you saw the truth in me."
As secondary school went on, Lando changed, not as a person but physically. No longer was he the straggly, small, buzzcut kid. He got taller, grew his hair out, and even became charming in a way you would never have imagined. Looking back he could remember getting his first girlfriend and how excited he was only to have his heartbroken.
He dated around more from then on, never getting attached to another girl. By developing a confident and flirtatious appearance he could avoid being hurt again. It worked on everyone as he gained popularity, everyone except you. You saw him for who he really was, always there to catch him when the mask slipped off and he shattered on the ground. Something he would always appreciate you for.
"All of this silence and patience. Pinning and anticipation"
When the drivers had first approached you with their plan you were skeptical.
Would he even want to see me after all this time?
You thought. You two had always talked about meeting again but your schedules never aligned. He always had a race or you had a case that you couldn't miss. They talked about how Lando had seemed down the last couple of weeks while you had been busy with a case, how they thought he missed you, and that they had a race in America soon. Blowing care to the wind you agreed. How could you miss the chance to see him again?
Clutching the hem of your shirt as you walked into the paddock for the first time, Daniel was waiting past security to show you around. Oscar had been able to pull some strings and get you a Race Day VIP pass without Lando knowing. You texted in the group chat and Daniel had been sent to come get you so Lando wouldn't notice. He couldn't stop talking about how excited he was to see the look on Lando's face as you two walked.
"Say my name and everything just stops. I don't want you like a best friend."
Soon enough Lando's laughter fills the air as Carlos holds his shoulder while bending over in laughter as well. You stood still for a moment watching to carve this memory of him into your mind before moving closer.
You smiled a bit to yourself, he was always the life of the party, always finding a way to make everyone around him laugh, and as always oblivious to his surroundings. He was still the same Lando you had fallen for all those years ago.
"Hey, Lan."
You said once you were a few feet away. Lando froze for a moment before turning around to look at you in shock. He couldn't believe you were here. Really here standing in the paddock only a few feet away next to Daniel of all people. He decided he didn't care how it happened only that it did.
Your hands started to shake as he stared at you. You wanted to hug him, kiss him, do something, but you were stuck. Stuck looking at him with hope in your eyes that he would say something, do something. Anything.
Carlos chucked at Lando's state before patting him on the back.
"Well, are you just gonna stand there? You know it took a lot of planning to get her here."
Lando snapped out of his trance, looking in between Carlos and you before breaking out in a sprint straight for you with the biggest smile on his face. He lifted you up by the waist spinning around with you in his arms.
It felt so good to have you in his arms again after all this time. At that moment, he realized it didn't matter how long it had been you were his home and he wasn't gonna let you go again.
You deserve to be where you are. Your accomplishments are real. You have worked hard to get here. You have earned this. You are just as good as everyone else. It wasn’t a mistake that you got this far, nor did you trick people into letting you get this far. You are not an imposter. ♡♡♡
dededos
prguitarman
romaincrisis
ellievsbear
vaporwave
