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Chapter Text

Henrik’s offer came unexpected and surprising back in the early autumn of 2018. His workmate and friend had asked on that day at the MTC, if he, Lando the young, sometimes way too shy and insecure newbie, wanted to become the new press officer for one of their two new drivers in the next season.

First Lando had thought Henrik was joking, because only the thought about that he should take over such an important and extensive job did just sound hilarious in his ears.

The two of them had got to know each other over university. They had both visited the same, with a few years in between of course. Lando had still been studying, when Henrik had held a lecture for his class and because he got so thrilled about his job, Lando had taken his whole courage together and had asked the young Sweden some questions about his duties as a creative producer right after the lecture.

They had started to talk and noticed quickly, that they got along with each other pretty well with having the same interests. The two of them also met a few times outside the university and finally became friends, something which really wasn’t easy for Lando - finding new friends with, he just had to admit it, being social awkward and reluctant most of the time.

When Lando was finished with his studies, Henrik arranged an internship for his friend at the MTC, because he was aware of his talent and skills. Before his internship was even over, they had offered Lando a permanent position in their media team.

Actually Lando was happy about his job, very happy even. He lived his dream as a graphic designer, the working hours were good, the MTC was close to his home town, the payment was great as well and the best, he didn’t have to come in contact with too many people, especially with strangers.

It wasn’t like Lando didn’t like other people or something like that, he was just pretty shy and uncomfortable towards people he didn’t know and he also kind of began to panic in crowds. He just preferred it to be all alone in front of his PC and do his work.

Lando had been satisfied with how his life had turned out, but then there came Henrik’s really serious meant offer out of nowhere. The young Brit instantly tried to explain his friend, that he would be the worst possible person for this job. He had no experiences and Henrik also exactly know how awkward he could sometimes be.

But the young Sweden insisted that he would be perfect for that job, because after some pretty hard and very unsuccessful years, the team needed a big change with a new driver pair next season and they also wanted some new, young people in their team for better vibes and also some fresh air.

Because Lando and he were friends since already a longer time, Henrik exactly knew how much fun the younger one could be around people he knew, felt comfortable enough and trusted. Lando would be perfect for that job and Henrik was also convinced in that he will handle the job in his own special way all great.

To finally stop the young Sweden to talk about the offer, Lando promised him to think about it, even when he already knew right then, that he really didn’t want to do it. But still, that thought didn’t want to leave his mind any more.

After days and also nights thinking about it, he still believed that he would be the worst person for that job, but then he visited his parent’s place one afternoon and because his mother knew him way too well and she could always see it instantly, when something did bother her youngest son, she forced him to talk about his worries.

Lando then told his parents and siblings about Henrik’s offer and like the young Sweden, they were all thrilled about it. Lando didn’t understand the world any more. Why did everyone think that he would do well, even when especially his family should know better? They actually exactly knew what a mess he was, especially mentally, how bad strangers freaked him out and they also know how unorganized he could be. Exactly those were not the best characteristics of a great press officer.

But in contrast to Lando, his family saw it from another point of view. They saw the chance in the offered job. Lando would be able to travel the world, to see new places almost every weekend, meet new people, which they were aware about that he didn’t enjoy that much, but it would also mean to establish new contacts and have a lot of fun. And it would also be a chance for him to develop.

His brother said he wouldn’t have to need any time to think about it, he would instantly accept Henrik’s offer and would already be totally overjoyed and excited for his new job. His family’s words let Lando think even more and slowly but sure he thought about really taking the offered job.

Not because he also started to like the thought of all those things that came to it, but maybe his mother was right. It was a chance for him to develop and stop being always that shy and sometimes even anxious. Sometimes you really need to jump into the cold water and right now, that moment had come for Lando.

Henrik did smile over his whole face, when the young Brit finally told him, that he will accept the offer, after he had thought one more weekend about the cons and pros the new job will bring for him. His friend was actually happier than Lando himself, because the new press officer himself still wasn’t 100% convinced about that this was really such a good idea, like had thought. Already right now it didn’t feel that good any more like just a few moments ago.

Just one week later, Lando already had an appointment with Henrik and Charlotte, the second press officer of the F1 team. He already knew Charlotte before, why Lando felt at least a little comfortable in her presence. But there was really nothing he had to be afraid or worry about. The woman was very nice and explained to him everything he needed to know about his new job.

What his duties will be, when he will finally fully start only for his new job to work any more and also when he will meet the driver he will be responsible for. Charlotte also told him that, since yesterday it was official. Lando will be Carlos Sainz’s press officer for the next season.

When the young Brit got to know that information, just at that moment he realized to what he had actually agreed to here, even when he had already been aware about that before. He was responsible for a Formula One driver, to make sure he will be on all his appointments punctually, to be always there for him and make sure he had everything he always needed in reach.

Lando himself couldn’t even organize his own life, how should he manage that for another person, especially the stressful and into every detail planned life of a F1 driver? And then there also still came the big problem that he knew how strangers saw him and that he really wasn’t good at making new friends.

He was a total mess when it came to society and now he even had to meet Carlos Sainz, a total stranger to him and even worse he had to spend so much time with him together in the future and make sure to support him by his job as good as possible, to always be there for him. Lando also still had to get to know the whole F1 team, the mechanics, engineer and everyone else.

The young Brit was shortly before fainting, when the realization hit him at that moment. He would have probably been so, if Charlotte wouldn’t have laid her hand on top of his under arm, looked all compassionate down at him and offered him her help all well-meant, when she spoke softly „Don’t worry. I know it’s a little much at the beginning, but I’m sure you will do a great job. And there is still time to get used to everything and I will also always be there for you, if you should ever need some help.”

Lando felt at least a little better, but still. But it was all nothing compared to the day back in November, when he had to meet Carlos for the first time. In between, he had already searched for some information about the big, glamorous F1 world, because if he was serious, he actually had no idea about F1 at all.

Sure, he had already been working for McLaren for a while before, but in his old job he didn’t necessary have to need to know such things. But now Lando needed and he didn’t want to look an even bigger idiot than he already was and tried so to get at least a little cleverer about the F1 world.

He had been on a race in Silverstone only once. It had been last year. The whole media team had been invited from the company to go there and because Lando had never seen a race in his life before, he got there.

Before, Lando really hadn’t followed the races at all. He had only kind of listened to them playing in the background, while he was studying and doing his homework, because his father had always watched the races at home when he was younger, but since he had moved out, he hadn’t watched any of the races on the TV at all. Lando himself had just never been such a fan, like his father.

But yeah, to see the race live for once was interesting, but nothing he would have liked to repeat. But now he won’t only see every race of the new season, he will also be in the middle of the whole chaos in the McLaren garage.

Of course, Lando had already heard the name Carlos Sainz before, but he really didn’t have a face to his name. The evening after his appointment with Henrik and Charlotte, he had googled his name for the first time and he had instantly regretted his decision once again.

The man was the epitome of a Spanish god. He had shiny, dark hair, beautiful brown eyes framed from long, thick eyelashes. His lips were all so plump, especially his thicker bottom lip and on some pics Lando could even spot some body hair on his underarms and also his chest, latest then he was lost the whole way.

His bisexual-self couldn’t believe what his eyes did see there on the screen of his phone. Carlos was gorgeous, way too gorgeous for this world and especially way too gorgeous for Lando to handle and not lose his mind, when the man will finally stand in front of him in a few days. Didn’t even mention to work with him together and manage to not droll or stare at his pretty appearance all the time.

His prettiness made the young Brit only even more nervous than he already had been. He was so afraid about making a fool of himself in front of Carlos, because he won’t be able to handle his beauty. He already knew so right now, that his cheeks will be blushed all the time as long as they will be in the same room and he also knew that his knees will get weak, when Carlos will speak to him or only look at him.

Lando wasn’t able to close his eyes for one second the night before he met the F1 driver for the first time. His whole body was shaking, he was freezing and felt so hot at the same time, his palms were sweating and he also felt a little sick, while he waited with Charlotte together for their new drivers to arrive.

The driver Charlotte will be responsible for and whose name Lando had already forgotten again in his nervousness, arrived sooner and so the two of them already disappeared in another press conference room to have a talk. Lando had really played with the thought to just ran away from here and won’t ever come back again, but before he could do so, the double door in front of him opened and a little crowd of five people came inside.

Great even worse, Lando thought to himself, but at least he already knew three of them. It were Andreas, one of their all bosses, Tom, the race engineer of the new driver and also Randy, one of their strategists.

Next to the three of them, two Spaniard’s stepped into the room and even when the one with the glasses looked a lot like Carlos Sainz, Lando still recognized the real one instantly and like he had expected his stupid body to react, he was all frozen and didn’t know what to do nor what to say any more.

He just stood there and blinked in disbelief at the F1 driver. In person, he looked even more beautiful than at all those pictures he had already seen from him and he had stared at the last few days constantly.

Like usual, no one paid attention to him nor noticed him being present, and for the first time the young Brit was pretty glad about that. Lando knew that he won’t be able to break his frozenness on himself, but luckily Andreas finally looked around the room, when he mentioned to Carlos that his press officer should actually be here as well and waiting for them.

„Ha! There he is.“ Andreas said with a smile on his lips, a smile Lando still wasn’t able to form himself. His heart was racing, while he still stood there and could only look with big, nervous eyes at Carlos when he turned around and followed his bosses gaze into the corner.

Just like Andreas, also Carlos instantly began to smile, when he saw the young man standing there all quietly and shyly. But in contrast to their bosses smile, was the Spaniard’s one a million times more breath-taking and gorgeous. And Lando was sure his heart stopped to beat at that moment.

Because he was still unable to move just one limb, Carlos made his way over to where he was still standing and holding onto the chair to not fall over. Lando knew he was probably looking like an idiot right now, but he really couldn’t help himself. He was so nervous, insecure and scared like never before in his life.

„Hola. I’m Carlos.“ The Spaniard introduced himself and from near, his appearance was even more overwhelmed than it had already been from far away, while he offered the younger man his hand. Since Carlos had laid eyes on Lando, probably already since already over one minute, he hadn’t stopped their connection.

With those beautiful chocolate coloured eyes and their little sparkles of cinnamon, whenever the light reflected that perfect way in his eyes, the Spaniard eyed Lando, looking all the way right into his soul, while doing so.

The young Brit could feel goose bumps breaking free on his whole body and he knew he was staring at him with lightly parted lips, but he just couldn’t help himself. Carlos was the most beautiful human he was ever blessed to meet on this planet.

And the fact that his whole focus was on him now, that Carlos gave him his whole attention vulnerable and also just his presence alone, caused his cheeks to blush badly. No handsome men ever had laid his eyes on him, especially for so long, Lando just wasn’t used to get so much attention from someone like him.

Carlos did still offer him his hand and only at that moment Lando got it that if he didn’t want to make himself an even bigger fool, than he had already managed to do until now, he should finally come back to his senses, shake his hand and make this moment not even more embarrassing, for both of them.

He really hoped his palm wasn’t that sweaty any more, when he finally took the Spaniard’s offered hand to shake it in greeting. „Hey. I..“ Great, at that moment also his old problem to struggle to speak properly when he was nervous and even to stutter had to come back. Lando breathed deep inside his lungs for one more time, swallowed down his fears and finally went on, after he had also cleared his throat.

„I’m Lando. I’m your press officer.“ The young Brit was actually almost proud about himself, but he instantly thought to have said something wrong or stupid, when Carlos suddenly began to cheer and caused Lando so to shrug together “Yay, that’s great. Really nice to meet you, Lando. We will have a good time together, I already know that now.“

Even when Lando knew he should also tell him about that it was nice to meet him as well and also convince him that he will give his very best in his new job, he only nodded his head in the end. All shy and overwhelmed again.

After Carlos, also the second Spaniard introduced himself and at least Lando didn’t have to remember too many new different names for today, when the man was also named Carlos and told him, that he was the other Carlos‘ manager. Later Lando also found out that Carlos, who everyone called Caco, was also Carlos‘ cousin, which did also explain why the two of them looked so alike.

The rest of their first meeting was alright. They had finally joined Charlotte and the other driver in the conference room and luckily Charlotte took over most of the speaking. About one hour later everything was already over again and before Carlos and his cousin left to meet the mechanics as well, they went over to Lando once again to say good-bye.

The young Brit breathed through the second they were all gone and caused so a smile on Charlotte’s lips. “Well done, Lando. The first time seeing each other is always a little exciting, but you did a great job and Carlos looks pretty nice to me.” He could only agree to that, but he hoped the Spaniard wasn’t only nice to him, because of all the others around them.

Relieved and also more or less satisfied with himself, Lando went to bed that night. He still wasn’t sure about what he should think of all of this, but right now it was already too late to take it all back any more. It was his job from today on and he will try his very best every moment. He wanted to show it to himself, what he was able to archive, but he also wanted to prove it everyone else. He will make it.

The next time Lando saw Carlos again was between after the last race of the season and Christmas. Like last time, he and also Caco were nice to him and after about one hour he had needed to get warm and comfortable around them, even when Carlos’ appearance still made his knees weak and his cheeks still had that lightly rosy tone, Lando could finally speak properly to them.

He showed them around the MTC, now that they were finally allowed to see everything and he also introduced them with everyone passing by their ways. Before they had to get to their appointment in the early afternoon, Lando did lead them into the big cafeteria for lunch. “Alright. We still have enough time until our appointment, I will pick you up in about one hour.”

“You won’t eat with us together?” It instantly came from Carlos and made Lando all perplex, because he hadn’t expected it at all. “Ehm, no. I’m not hungry. I prefer to get outside for a while and get some fresh air.” The younger one told the two Spaniards, who nodded their heads in understanding, before Lando finally left.

He needed some minutes on his own to collect his thoughts and feelings after this pretty busy morning and prepare himself all in peace for the meeting. One hour later he went back to the cafeteria to pick them up.

Lando tried to give his whole attention to the meeting, but he still caught himself something better to focus at. He stared at Carlos sitting across him over the big table. He was just too gorgeous to not look at him, he just had to. But still the meeting did end alright and after he had shared some more words with the two Carloses they did end their day.

The next morning, Carlos did spend by their mechanics, so Lando had to do other work at that time, before they will meet in the afternoon to talk about what will come their ways after the holidays. Because this morning hadn’t been that stressful like yesterday, Lando went to the cafeteria as well and just wanted to get over where Henrik and Charlotte were sitting, when someone to his right called his name.

It was Carlos, who had just taken place on some table in the corner. He waved at his press officer to come over and join him for lunch. If Lando was serious, he hesitated for one moment, even when he knew he just couldn’t say no, especially because Carlos was obviously all alone. Encouraging Henrik and Charlotte nodded at him, before Lando swallowed down thickly and suddenly didn’t feel any hungry at all any more.

“Hey, Carlos.” Lando greeted him shyly but not less nicely. “Hola, Lando. Qué pasa? I have thought, since you obviously also eat something for lunch today, you maybe want to join me, so we can talk a little.”

“Sure.” Agreeing the young Brit nodded his head and took place opposite the F1 driver, even when Carlos could have also asked him about what he wanted to know later at their appointment in the afternoon.

But however, Lando really didn’t want to be impolite and so questioned nicely “Where can I help you?” Carlos tilted his head and eyed him for some moments, before he did spear his broccoli and told him, before he let the vegetable disappear in his mouth “I have actually thought to talk about normal stuff, you know. Not only about business all the time. We still have time for that later.”

“Oh.” It came all surprised from Lando’s lips, because he hadn’t expected this at all. Normally no one was interested about his life and what he did in his free time or any other private stuff. He also just wasn’t good at talking about himself and he could also never manage it to make his life sound exciting or at least interesting.

His life and also Lando himself was pretty boring, at least for others, even when he himself was happy with his normal life. But still it made him feel very uncomfortable, because he didn’t know what to say. What could he tell a F1 driver about his own life that did sound at least a little thrilling? Compared to Carlos’ excited life, his own was nothing and it made him feel stupid once again.

“Okay.” Lando finally still agreed, because the awkward silence between them was already too long anyway. “We don’t have to, if you don’t want it. I have just thought that it would have been a nice idea to get to know each other a little closer, since we will work together pretty much in the next time.”

Lando could tell, that the Spaniard had really only meant it good, also because he actually had no idea how unexcited someone’s life could be, especially the younger ones. “No, it’s alright. I just.. don’t know what to tell you about myself or my life.”

Unsure the young Brit poked the food on his plate around, latest now his whole appetite was gone. “How about you asking questions to me and my life?” the Spaniard suggested once again well-meant, but it didn’t help Lando at all to get out of this uncomfortable situation.

He didn’t know what he should ask him what he was allowed to ask a F1 driver. The last thing Lando wanted to do was going too far, to make the older one offended, upset or even angry. And after another long, awkward silence, Lando finally didn’t come up with anything better than asking “Doesn’t Caco want to eat something today?”

He hoped that the other Spaniard will join them shortly, so it won’t be that awkward any more with just being the two of them any more. And with some luck Carlos will hopefully forget about the question about his private life again, also because he had finally noticed that Lando was a little strange.

It wasn’t like Lando didn’t want to be alone with Carlos, but the whole focus wouldn’t only be on him any more then. He just hated it to be the centre of everyone’s attention, especially when it was Carlos’.

“No, he is already on his way back to Spain since he doesn’t necessary have to also be here today.” The Spaniard informed him, before he continued to enjoy his lunch. “Oh.” It only came from his lips once more, before he already lightly started to panic again, because this didn’t only mean that just the two of them will have lunch today, but they will also be alone the whole afternoon long.

“How was your day so far?” Carlos finally changed the subject and took the way of their conversation in his own hands. And because he had asked so nicely once again, Lando could tell he was seriously interested to hear about his day or at least he was a good actor. In a few words the younger one told him about his actual pretty uninteresting and unexciting morning, before he asked about Carlos’ own.

Luckily the Spaniard obviously didn’t have a problem with talking, also when English wasn’t his first language. He talked most of the time and because Lando always preferred it to be the listener more than to be the talker anyway, he didn’t complain about it and he was also already half finished with his lunch, when out of nowhere Carlos suddenly began to ask him about things, private things then.

Like he had already said, normally no one was interested in his life, but not Carlos. He listened all careful to his words, when he told him about that he had two, younger sisters and one older brother. His parents did live about thirty minutes away from here on a big farm, he had also grown up at, but since he was working here he lived in a house he had rented in the next town. Lando also told him about how he did end up here at McLaren and also how he finally became his press officer.

“It’s my first time doing such a job. I hope I will make it good and support you whenever and wherever I can.” Lando did finally end his little speech, he was actually surprised about that he had talked so much about himself. Maybe because Carlos had been all quiet and had listened to his words all carefully, giving him so once again his whole attention. Something usually only his parents gave him, whenever he had to tell them something.

“I’m sure you will do a great job, you already do so now. But maybe I already have to come back to your offer right now, because I’m still looking for a flat near to the factory, maybe you could help me find one.” Lando wasn’t sure if this also stood in his contract, but he liked Carlos, especially when he asked so nicely for his help and also because of those big, beautiful eyes looking almost begging at him.

“Sure I can help you. Don’t worry. I will put it onto our to-talk-about list for later.” Following also Carlos told him a little about his private life, after Lando had also done so. The Spaniard told him that he also had two sisters, he was the middle child and that he had grown up close to Madrid. He also told him shortcut his way to how he ended up at McLaren, even when Lando had already prepared himself and had studied the Spaniard’s career, because he didn’t want to be totally clueless. But still it was nice to hear the story coming from the man himself and also his point of view.

After they were both finished with their lunch, Carlos said that will take himself some coffee and also asked Lando if he wanted some as well. When the young Brit told him, that he didn’t drink any coffee, but he would take one glass of milk instead, the Spaniard raised his eyebrows up to his hairline, before he confirmed him with a smirk to get him some.

Before Lando did even realize so, they had to leave and finally start their meeting. And he really had to admit that it was great to work with Carlos together. The second they had stood up from their seats in the cafeteria, he was all professional again and they only talked about their work any more.

After everything was finally done, they got back to talk about Carlos’ apartment search again. The older told him that a house would be too much for him. Even when he will spend much time in the UK in the future, he will be the most time here at the factory and not at his place. So a little flat should be enough for him for actually just sleeping there. But it would be more than just perfect, if the flat would be pretty close to the MTC, but everything else he gave over into Lando’s hands.

Shortly after, they did end their long day and went their ways. While Lando drove home, he thought about that even when they were alone most of the time today, Carlos had still been all nice and polite to him, so maybe it was really his nature and not only because someone had been around them the first two times seeing each other. The Spaniard was actually more than just kind to him, he was charming, very charming even.

And Lando also noticed that he became more and more relaxed and comfortable in his presence, even when he was still not over his pretty eyes, his thick Spanish accent and that gorgeous smile. Lando became better and better with every day and that made him proud about himself.

Until Christmas, he looked for a right flat for Carlos and shortly before holy night, he finally found one just a few streets away from his own home in Woking and wanted to show the Spaniard after the holidays.

Lando did spend Christmas at his parent’s place, when he got a message from Carlos and first Lando had thought he needed something else from him, but he was surprised when he read that he only wanted to wish him merry Christmas and happy holidays. Lando returned those wishes, of course.

For Christmas, Lando got a lot of stuff for his new job. A new, big suitcase for when he will travel the world from his father, new socks and underwear from his grandparents, notice books and some other useful organization items from his mother, new earphones from his brother and a lot of new DVDs from his sisters.

Slowly but sure Lando got positive excited and also couldn’t wait for the new season to finally start. But before, there was still a lot of work to do. After New Year, Lando and Carlos met outside the MTC, so he could show him the flat he had found. Luckily the Spaniard was as satisfied and happy with it than the younger one had been, and so the flat became Carlos’ new home in the UK.

One problem less, Lando thought to himself all satisfied. From that day on, Carlos and he, sometimes also Caco joined them, did spend almost every day together at the MTC. Latest at the launch day of their new car, Lando was full in his new job and he also didn’t have any doubts any more about that Carlos did only fake his kindness.

He came along with him pretty well, they did spend lunch together daily, Lando also didn’t have such a big problem any more with talking about himself and the two of them could also already have a lot of fun together.

They both had the same kind of humour and even when Lando had been so awkward at the beginning, Carlos hadn’t shrugged away because of it. The younger one sometimes even had the feeling that he could understand him or at least the Spaniard had compassion.

And before they could all really realise so, they were already on their way to Australia for their first race of the year and Lando was suddenly all nervous, insecure and scared again. To the two Carloses, had also finally joined Carlos’ trainer Rupert, Lando got to know on their day they left for Australia. Rupert didn’t only look nice, he was also pretty nice. 

The three of them were already a working team before, when not even a family, so Lando didn’t want to bother them. He was busy with only himself already anyway, because he really didn’t want to make any mistakes at the first race and to all that also the damn jet lag came.

And even when the first weekend had been good for Lando, he hadn’t forgotten about anything, he always brought Carlos punctually to his media meetings and appointments and he somehow also got his jet leg under control and wasn’t too overwhelmed about everything that happened in the garage and while he still tried to learn how this all here did work, the first weekend as a McLaren F1 driver hadn’t been that good for Carlos.

He didn’t finish the race, about what he understandably wasn’t so happy about. But luckily Caco and Rupert had been there to cheer him up, because Lando could only stand next to them, not knowing what to do or what to say to make him feel better.

From his side, the first weekend had been alright, sure there were still enough things for him to make better and he also still had a lot to learn, but it could have been worse for him. But still Lando felt sorry for Carlos and so also for the team, because even when the second driver could end the race, he still couldn’t bring home any points.

They did all hope for the next race to be better to them. But Bahrain wasn’t any kinder at all, especially not to Carlos once again. The mood inside the garage was pretty low and of course also the F1 driver himself was upset as well, but still Lando had needed to drag him over to make some interviews and record his thoughts right after the race, even when Carlos probably didn’t feel like it, because he was pretty disappointed once again.

And even when the Spaniard was finally able to end his first race of the season in China, he was still relatable frustrated about it, because he did end outside the points, so it was almost just another DNF for him.

Right after the race, Carlos, Caco and Rupert had stormed off into the direction of the Spaniard’s driver room. Lando was actually still happy for them for taking over the comforting talking and calming down his tensed nerves, but they had left the place, before he had been able to take a memo.

“Carlos, wait! I still have to record your thoughts.” Lando called after the F1 driver, while he tried to speed up his steps so he could keep up with them. Charlotte had told Lando that it was very important to record the driver’s thoughts right after the race, when they and also his feelings about the car were still all fresh and emotional.

But when Carlos suddenly stopped abruptly and Lando crashed against him because of it, his feelings seemed to be too fresh and strong at the moment, when he snapped at the younger one with a pretty loud voice “Hell! Not yet, Lando. I’m really not in the mood to talk about this shit race right now for fuck’s sake.”

Whenever someone was talking a little louder and also sharper with him, Lando could feel a knot deep inside his throat instantly and he could also feel hot tears burning in his eyes, even without wanting so.

While Carlos had already continued his way all angrily and Caco joined his cousin, because in contrast to the young Brit he knew the right words to say right now, Rupert seemed to have compassion with the younger one, when he laid his hand on top of his shoulder, gifted him a little smile and told him “Let him calm down first. Don’t take it personal, Lando.”

He really tried to do so and actually he also knew, that Carlos hadn’t been that furious because of him, but his voice and about that he could become that mad, Lando had been surprised, when not even shocked. He really just hadn’t expected it at all, after Carlos had always been so nice, calm and relaxed. Understanding the young Brit nodded, before Rupert left him alone and followed the two of them.

After breathing through, he finally also made his way back to their motorhome, even when his thoughts were far away. But he still had to do his job, it just wasn’t an excuse to hide in the next corner, curl up and cry like a little baby, even when Lando somehow wanted to do so.

He kept himself in the background as good as possible, because he didn’t want to cause the Spaniard to get mad again with just his presence. And because he was so thoughtful the whole time long, he had almost forgotten about one of the interviews Carlos had to give in the end. If Charlotte hadn't remembered Lando about it, he would have totally forgotten about it with being a little down after everything.

“Are you alright?” The woman asked him worriedly to which the young Brit only nodded agreeing his head, even when actually wished to already be in his hotel room and hide from the whole world. To tell Carlos that they had to hurry up to still catch the interview punctually, was shaming, because he had obviously made a mistake once again.

While they ran to their appointment, Lando handled over the racer his cap and drink bottle and somehow they still managed to get there in time, just a little breathless. After the whole trouble, the younger one even forgot about asking the Spaniard for his thoughts about the race once again.

Somehow he was even relieved about it, because he was afraid about that Carlos would have yelled at him once again and become all mad again. He probably wouldn’t have dared to ask anyway, even if he had remembered about it.

In the evening, when Lando had finally been in his room, he still had to think about what had happened and he came to the decision, that he was just too weak for doing this all here, this job. Maybe he had been doing alright so far, but he should have been more steadfast and also determined today. 

Like Charlotte had told him at one of his first days, he had to somehow record his thought and impressions of the race, he just had to get them, but he had failed. That moment Lando did decide to not go on with this job. It was better so for everyone, for the team and also for Carlos.

When they will finally be back in the UK again, he will tell Henrik about it and he was sure his friend could understand it, because he had probably already noticed so himself. Lando just wasn’t made for this job, like he had actually already known so before all the time, he should have never agreed to it. He had failed, like already so often.

But before Lando could go on to bathe in self-pity, someone knocked at his door. After he had dragged him out of bed and he had quickly checked his curls in the mirror, he got over to the door and asked himself who this might could be at this time.

Lando would have expected everyone, but not this Spaniard in front of his door. “Carlos.” Lando’s voice did sound as surprised as he did feel. “Hey, Lando. Can I quickly come inside, I would like to talk to you.” Even when Lando had to swallow thickly by his words and his belly also began to cramp, because he already had a suspecting about what he wanted to talk with him about, the young Brit let him inside, of course.

“Sure. Come inside.” Carlos was probably going to tell him, that he wanted another press officer, someone more professional and also more organized than him. On the one hand Lando was happy about that, so he could finally go back to his old, boring life again, where he did actually belong to and he should have never left at the first place and forget about his little adventure into the world he really didn’t belong to all quickly again, but on the other side, everything would be so uncomfortable.

He had disappointed not only Henrik and Charlotte, but also his family and because the whole thing would be so embarrassing, he probably also had to change his job. Yeah, he once again came to the decision from before, he should have never taken that offer. He just wasn’t made it.

Carlos stepped inside his room, while Lando closed the door behind them and out of habit to protect himself, he pulled the sleeves of his hoodie over his hands and was too ashamed to look up at Carlos’ eyes any more.

“About today, about what has happened after the race. I just wanted to apologize by you, Lando.” The Spaniard’s voice told the younger one how serious he meant the just said and that he was indeed feeling sorry for it, but still Lando couldn’t believe it.

“You what?” He asked all shocked back, he had actually expected something complete different to hear from him. “Yeah, you know it was in the heat of the moment, I felt so damn frustrated and also angry at myself and.. however, it doesn’t matter. I really shouldn’t have treated you like that and I also shouldn’t have talked to you like that. I’m really sorry, Lando. I make sure about that something like that won’t ever happen again. I have also already talked to Andreas and Zak about it, about that it really wasn’t your fault at all, that we don’t have a memo of my thoughts after the race this time. It was all mine, because in contrast to myself, you are doing an amazing job all the time.”

Overwhelmed Lando could only blink about those words he had just heard coming from the Spaniard’s lips. He still couldn’t believe that he obviously didn’t want to swipe his job with someone more competently than him. No, Carlos actually really thought he did a good job, great even and he had taken the whole blame on him, even when it had been on Lando, who hadn’t done his job properly. Carlos was only here to race.

After one whole minute staring at each other, Lando finally found his voice again, when he tried to make the older one realize “No, Carlos. It’s alright, you haven’t done anything wrong. I should have done my job like everyone expect it from me, it wasn’t your fault. I mean, even when I probably won’t ever find out what it means to drive one of these cars, I can still imagine your feelings after today, so I understand it. Don’t worry, it won’t happen again. I will be more professional in the future and just give you some minutes to calm down after the races from now on.”

The Spaniard tilted his head in such an adorable way at him that Lando’s heart began to beat faster instantly. “You are already professional enough for me, pequeño. You really don’t have to worry about that at all.” Next to the soft, understanding way his voice did sound, Lando also hadn’t missed the way he had called him.

“So, are the two of us good?” Carlos finally asked, after no reaction had come from the younger one. Quickly Lando nodded agreeing his head, before he told him “Sure. I mean, we have both only tried to do our jobs, right? Besides, I think we were never not good.”

His words had caused a big smile on the older one’s lips, before Carlos suddenly stepped closer to wrap his arms around him for a tight hug. The gestured took Lando by surprise, because even when he had already noticed that Carlos was a pretty touchy person, they had still never been that close before and if he was serious, the young Brit also wasn’t used to get such kind of long, tight hugs.

Actually Lando didn’t really like any bodycontact at all, but to his own surprise, he became pretty fast comfortable in the embrace and finally also placed his hand on top of the racer’s back. “I’m happy about that, Lando. I was already scared I have shrugged you away with my harsh words.”

After Carlos had whispered those words close to his ear and had caused Lando so to once again get goose bumps everywhere on his body, he finally pulled away. They were looking into each other’s eyes for some more moments, almost a little too long, before the Spaniard finally said that he didn’t want to bother him any more and wished him good night.

Even when he had already left his room already minutes ago, Lando still had goose bumps and a warm shiver ran down the whole length of his back. If he wanted to admit it or not, but finding himself inside those strong arms, getting hold all tightly, with just the right pressure to feel protected and comforted and feeling the warmth of Carlos’ body against his own, breathing in his scent and hearing him whisper so close to his ear, was more than just enjoyable.

More enjoyable than Lando had suspected, more enjoyable than it should have actually been. For the young Brit himself it wasn’t a secret any more, that he felt attracted to the Spaniard. His appearance was simply stunning, but what he had finally really caused him to fall for him at that moment was his sweet being.

Carlos was always so understanding towards him and also very kind. He did treat him like he wasn’t the weirdo he actually felt like, he simply accepted him the way he was and he really didn’t seem to have a problem with that. He was good to him.

And of course there were also those looks he gave him. Those tender looks, when his eyes drilled all deep into his own and so right into his soul. And Carlos didn’t let go any more then, he kept their eye connection as long as possible, as if he also couldn’t take his eyes away from him any more.

And maybe Lando only imagined it, but sometimes he was really convinced about that those gorgeous smiles were only meant for him, that Carlos only gifted him those wide, happy smiles.

How special he always made him feel whenever he touched him, even for only a brief moment. And even when Lando disliked any bodycontact, by now he was even already waiting for Carlos to brush over his lower arms or lay his arms around his shoulders, while they were strolling through the MTC or the paddock.

But now he knew how it felt to get hugged by him and Lando already knew right now that he was addicted to it and never before he had felt so good than being right in the Spaniard’s arms. Even when he had actually expected much to happen in his new job, he really hadn’t expected to fall in love with a F1 driver.

Lando really couldn’t deny it any longer, even when he really hated himself for feeling that way. But he had to push his feelings aside, he needed to be professional for the team and especially for Carlos. He couldn’t let himself get lead by his own feelings, he needed to focus and keep a clear mind. With the promise to himself, that he will keep himself together, the young Brit finally went to bed that evening.

Luckily Lando could hold the promise he had given himself that day and even better the next race had been for Carlos. He wasn’t only able to finish the race, he even made it to end it in the points with P7. Slowly but sure Lando began to understand the rules and how the world of F1 worked and it was really great to see the team, Caco, Rupert and especially Carlos himself being all happy and thrilled about the great result after too many weeks of suffering.

With pleasure the Spaniard told Lando his feelings and thought about the race and he also did so by the after race interviews, with always a big smile on his lips. The younger one felt happy for the racer, he really deserved it after those first three races.

After their whole work was done for today, Lando just wanted to make himself on his way back to the hotel, when Carlos suddenly jogged over to his side, only to ask him if he wanted to join Caco, Rupert and him for dinner at their hotel restaurant later.

Surprised about his question, the young Brit gave him a puzzled look, before he shook his head and tried to tell him “I don’t want to bother the three of you.” He was somehow touched about his invite, he could also feel that his cheeks had blushed once again.

It wasn’t like it would be the first time since back in December that they would have a meal together, but since that it had only been in their motorhome around the whole team and not so private. “Don’t be silly, Lando. I would really like you to join us, so we can clink glasses after today’s result.” Because Carlos was looking at him with those big, begging eyes, Lando just couldn’t say no to him a second time.

To the Spaniard’s enthusiasm, he finally agreed to it and promised to be there at eight. Even when Lando had been shortly nervous about having dinner with Carlos, his trainer and cousin, the evening still turned out pretty enjoyable and also funny. Maybe he only imagined it, but all three of them made him feel like he did belong to their little family team and that was a pretty nice feeling.

Two weeks later, he crossed his fingers even more for Carlos to succeed, because it was his home race. He ended the race on P8 and maybe Lando was a little too thrilled about it, but he was just so happy for him, especially because his whole family had been here to watch him race.

Like always when he met new people, the young Brit became pretty shy and insecure, when Carlos told him on Sunday morning, that he wanted to introduce him to his family. Actually he felt blessed about it, because he knew that Carlos’ father was a very successful Rally driver, which only caused him to get even more nervous. But like Carlos himself, every member of his family was as kind and lovely as him, when the racer had taken him over to introduce him with his parents and sisters.

In Monaco, the Spaniard succeed the best result of the season so far. P6, the whole team was cheering in the garage, including Lando. He had watched the race right next to Caco and Rupert and not in some corner all on his own at the garage this time. Through the whole race he had been so nervous, because he wanted his friend to do well so bad.

His friend. Yeah, by now Lando could really count Carlos as one of his less friends. Also Caco and Rupert. It was also normal for him to go for dinner just with the three of them, but what was new was Carlos’ invitation to join them for some games of FIFA in his hotel room in the evening.

Like when he had asked him to for dinner with them for the first time, Lando also hesitated this time, but Carlos didn’t let him many choices, when he simply took his hand and dragged him into his room after having dinner. Lando just really wasn’t used for people to be that nice to him.

In Canada the Spaniard hadn’t been that lucky like in the last few races. He ended outside the points with P11, but he had kept his promise and didn’t be too disappointed about it or at least he didn’t let out his anger on Lando like back in China. But somehow the older one got the feeling, that he wasn’t the only one who hadn’t been in his best mood that afternoon.

“Everything okay with you?” Carlos asked, after their jobs had been done for the weekend. Lando first only shrugged his shoulders and lied that he was alright, but then the Spaniard reached for his arm and caused them both to stop their steps.

“You know, you can talk to me whenever you need someone to listen to. I can see you aren’t alright, Lando. You have barely smiled today and I’m pretty sure it’s not because of my result.” Unsure the young Brit bit down onto his lip, because he usually didn’t talk about his feelings, but he finally did so for the first time, when he admitted to the older one “I’m maybe a little home sick.”

“Oh, pequeño. I’m sorry to hear that.” And in the next moment, Lando already found himself in the safety of the Spaniard’s soft arms. It was the second time he had been so close to him, but it felt as great as the last time. And this time he instantly relaxed, let himself fall for a few moments and just get hold. He even closed his eyes for a brief moment to fully enjoy the closeness.

“It’s okay. Don’t worry about me.” He told him after they had ended their embrace and pulled away again. “No, I can’t do that. You also worry about me the whole time long. Why don’t you come over tonight and watch some movies together with Caco, Rupert and me?” And so Lando did join them for one of their movie nights for the first time.

The next two races had been good for both Carlos and Lando. The Spaniard managed it to make points and after spending a few days at home, Lando also didn’t feel that homesick any more, also because Carlos didn’t let it happen. By now they did already spend almost their whole time together, both on the track and also in the evenings.

Everything had like usual, Lando could finally call the F1 word as his new normal, but still something unusual had happened by the last dinner Carlos, Caco, Rupert and he had together in Austria. Something the young Brit still couldn’t really understand, something he couldn’t name, because he still didn’t exactly know what had happened.

They had dinner after qualifying at their hotel that evening, some delicious buffet with Austrian delicacies, when after Caco and Lando had got themselves the main dish, they sat down onto their seats again.

Unintended Lando nudged his feet against Carlos‘, who was sitting opposite him. Lando pretended like the brief touch hadn’t happened and also the Spaniard did so, at least at first. The younger one had just taken his first bite, when he could suddenly feel Carlos’ feet poked against his this time.

Still nothing unusual, but when it happened a second time shortly after, Lando looked up at his friend, suspecting that he was looking for his attention because he wanted to tell him something, but to the young Brit’s surprise the racer didn’t give him any attention at all.

Instead, he was talking to his trainer and actually ignored him, except his feet. The older one still rubbed his shoe against Lando’s and slowly but sure the younger one’s cheeks began to blush, because he didn’t know what to do.

His friend obviously mistook his foot for the table foot and Lando didn’t dare to pull away, because he didn’t want to form with it an uncomfortable situation, when Carlos will get it that it was him against what he had rubbed his foot all the time. The younger one hoped for the Spaniard to pull away soon, so he could quickly take his foot away and pretend like this misunderstanding had never happened.

But against his wishes, Carlos didn’t stop. The total contrary even, when he also added his second foot and nudged it against the younger one’s foot as well, capturing Lando’s smaller foot between his own.

The second Lando finally got it, that this right here wasn’t unintended at all, he jumped in his seat and choked because of it. Great, now the whole attention was on him and the second Carlos got it what his gesture had caused to his friend, he quickly pulled away and looked at him with sorry eyes.

“You good again?” Caco asked the young man to his left, after he had patted on his back to help him to calm down again. Lando’s head still had the colour of an overripe tomato, when he was finally able to node his head.

Also Carlos’ cheeks had blushed lightly, because Lando obviously hadn’t enjoyed his well-meant gesture, his approach to deepen their friendship, his try to kind of flirt with him or whatever this actually should have been. The young Brit was so confused, he really didn’t know what to think about what had just happened there under the table.

All he knew was that he had actually liked it, that he had even enjoyed their closeness and that Carlos felt pretty uncomfortable now, because of the younger one’s reaction. The Spaniard even tried to avoid his eyes, because he was so ashamed, something he had never done before, when Lando had tried to catch his eyes and telling him so that it was alright. It had just taken him by surprise that was all.

But the young Brit didn’t have a chance to tell him so through his eyes, when Rupert asked the Spaniard to his right, if he wanted some dessert as well, because tonight he allowed him to have one. Of course, Carlos didn’t let himself tell so twice and instantly stood up with his trainer to get himself some Sachertorte with whipped cream.

In the meantime, Lando had calmed down completely and also Carlos’ cheeks had become their usual colour again, but still he tried to not catch his friend’s eyes over the table any more. Unsure the younger one bit down onto his bottom lip, thinking about if the idea that had just crossed his mind, was really such a great one like he thought.

But he hated it to see Carlos like that, especially because he hadn’t done anything wrong. Lando still didn’t know why the Spaniard had done that before, but all he knew was that he had actually liked it and Carlos was feeling embarrassed at the moment, because he thought he hadn’t liked it at all and that he had made a mistake with it.

Finally, the young Brit took his whole courage together, when he stretched out his leg under the table, till he reached his friend and nudged their feet together once again, telling him so that he was neither upset nor angry about what had happened before.

Even when the Spaniard had probably planned to not look up into his press officer’s eyes any more for tonight, they still snapped up instantly by the touch. Lando’s eyes had already been fixed on him and there was also already playing a little, insecure smile on his lips.

The second the Spaniard understood, also he began to smile as well, his whole expression lighted up, before he also began to poke his feet against Lando’s. The younger one’s cheeks were blushed lightly through the rest of the evening, while their feet were kind of cuddling together under the table.

Lando had been allowed to invite his family to McLaren’s home race and even when he had promised them to introduce them with Carlos, after he had already told them so much about him, he suddenly wasn’t so sure about that any more.

He was afraid that they would maybe embarrass him or something like that in front of his friend, but the second the Spaniard heard about that his press officer’s family was here for the weekend, he absolutely wanted to get to know them.

In the end it hadn’t been that embarrassing like Lando had first thought, but he was still glad when his family finally left the garage again and he could fully focus on his job again.

The last two races before the summer break had been great. Two times Carlos had managed it to end on P5, which only lifted the whole great mood of the team even more. Half-time and so far Lando was pretty proud about himself and the job he had done.

Before they all got into their well-deserved holidays, Carlos asked him about his plans for the next three weeks. They talked for some time, before they hugged and wished each other a good time with their families. During the next three weeks they wrote each other every few days and also sent each other pictures from their holidays.

After the break, it was like at the beginning of the season. Nothing seemed to work any more, nothing was left from their high before the summer holidays. Especially Spa had been horrible in so many ways.

About that Carlos had to retire his car only after the first lap, was actually something Lando had been glad about. Not even twenty-four hours ago a young man had left his life on this track and even when Lando knew they were all race drivers because it was their passion and they all did so volunteer, he still hadn’t wanted Carlos to get into his car this morning.

The night had been horrible, for every one of them. No one had caught enough sleep or any sleep at all, everyone had been rolling around inside their beds and thought about what might could happen tomorrow. Even more relieved Lando had been, when Carlos was finally back at the garage.

And this time it had been the young Brit himself, who had wrapped his arms around the Spaniard’s belly. He had actually done so for the first time by someone, who wasn’t one of his family members. But he was so scared the whole time and he also had a pretty unwell feeling about that something bad will happen to Carlos as well, if he will drive that race today.

But now he was finally back, all safe and healthy and Lando just hadn’t his emotions under control any more, when he hugged him there right in front of everyone’s eyes and he also couldn’t prevent himself from feeling those tears burn.

“I was so scared about you.” He finally explained, when Carlos had seen those thick tears waving in his eyes. “You are so cute, pequeño. But you don’t have to worry any more. I won’t go anywhere, at least not today.” The Spaniard promised him, while he brushed that single curl out of his face and Lando tried to be brave again and sniffed his tears away.

Actually that day should have been one to celebrate. It was Carlos’ birthday, but because no one was much in the mood for it and it also would have felt wrong to celebrate, it got somehow swallowed by yesterday’s happenings. But after Lando had collected his feelings and he wasn’t that anxious any more, he knocked at the Spaniard’s hotel room in the evening to give him the birthday present he had bought for him.

“It’s not much, but I just had to think about you, when I have seen it back in London.” Lando told the older one, before he watched him unwrapping the small box and pulled out a stuffed animal, a little meerkat.

He had hoped he would like the present, since Lando had found out a few weeks ago that meerkats were his favourite animal, but even with that knowledge he was still surprised about how thrilled Carlos was about the little stuffed animal in his hands.

“Oh my god, I love it. It’s so cute.” The Spaniard gushed all excited, while he looked at the meerkat from every side all closely. “It will be my new lucky charm.” Carlos announced, while he still smiled from one ear to the other. “I’m glad you like it. I just had to buy it for you, when I have seen it.”

After Carlos had cuddled the stuffed animal, showing him so how much he adored his present, he wrapped his arms around the younger one as well and just like the meerkat before, he also pulled him closer against his chest. “Gracias, Lando. That really made my day.”

Between Italy, which had been another DNF for Carlos, and Singapore they had one week off. Lando was currently doing some housework at his flat, when the older one called him that afternoon. It wasn’t unusual that the F1 driver did so, they did speak almost daily with each other, also when it wasn’t race week, especially also since Carlos had asked Lando if he wanted to manage his social media accounts, but still Carlos’ instant question about what he was doing at the moment surprised him.

“Ehm.. Nothing big, just some housework.” In the end he didn’t even dare to ask why he wanted to know so, but Lando didn’t have to wait for too long to get to know the reason for that kind of question.

“Great, because I was wondering if you maybe want to come over. I’m already back in the UK and I’m pretty bored this afternoon.” It was quiet on the other end of the line, while Lando hesitated. “I will also invite you for pizza if you come.” Carlos tried to bait him and just imagine his big puppy eyes at the moment was enough for Lando to give in.

It wasn’t like he didn’t want to spend time with the Spaniard, but they had never done this before. Just the two of them with none work included. A little insecure about that, he drove over to Carlos’ place, just as a friend and not as his press officer this time.

The older one was already impatiently waiting for him and welcomed him in the second he had knocked at his door. It were already months ago, since Lando had been at his place the last time and because also there weren’t any furniture inside back then, Carlos gave him a tour through his flat.

When they got into his bedroom, Lando’s cheeks blushed a little, while just thinking about that this was the place he did sleep during the nights and he probably also did other things. They had actually already wanted to leave the room again, when Carlos pointed over to his SIM in the corner and Lando’s eyes stayed fixed on it.

“Do you want to try it?” The Spaniard asked, when he had noticed his younger friend still looking at it, while Carlos himself was already outside the room. “What? Oh, no. I’m afraid that won’t be such a good idea. I will probably only ruin something, besides I have no idea how it works.”

“Don’t be silly, you actually can’t smash anything. Just give it a try. Don’t worry, I will also give you tips. It’s not that difficult.” Carlos tried to talk him into it. “Says you, a F1 driver. Yeah, maybe it’s not difficult for you, but I won’t even make one lap without hitting the wall.”

But it was already too late. Carlos had already started the SIM and after an introductory round, it was already Lando’s turn. The young Brit hated it to do things he knew he will be bad at, especially when someone was watching him, especially when it was Carlos watching him.

But after some laps, he slowly but sure did get a feeling for the car, maybe also because Carlos was very patient with him and gave him really good tips. In the end, also Lando had fun and enjoyed pretending for at least once sitting in one of these cars. But he enjoyed it even more to watch Carlos racing.

Normally he wasn’t able to look at him all closely, especially during driving. To see how focused he became the second he was sitting behind the steering wheel, his pretty eyes only fixed on the screen any more, while his quick and nimble fingers pressed the right buttons, fascinated him.

It was really a joy to watch Carlos racing and once again Lando’s eyes had landed on his hands. And especially at those veins sticking out of the back of his hands. His palms were way bigger than his own and so much stronger, but by now the young Brit also exactly knew how tender and soft those hands could be at the same time.

Slowly but sure his eyes wandered up to his arms. First to his underarms, eyeing the veins at the inside of his arms, while Carlos put so much effort into winning the virtual race, those veins were so well visible and caused Lando’s mouth to water slowly but sure.

And then also his dark body hair on the length of his arm. How bad he had wanted to let his fingertips float over his so well-tanned skin and through those soft hairs. Already all heated and totally lost, Lando wetted his lips with his tongue, while he watched those muscles on his upper arm flinch, they were actually almost dancing and did spellbound the younger one so easily.

“Lando?” His own name finally got to his ears and from Carlos’ expression he could tell, that he hadn’t been saying his name for the first time then. His cheeks instantly blushed with being caught staring. God, he felt so incredible stupid about it, while the Spaniard smirked at him.

Because Lando won’t be able to speak again anytime soon, Carlos finally stopped the uncomfortable silence between the two of them, when he suggested if they wanted to get over into the living room to play some FIFA, while they will wait for their pizza to get delivered.

Only too happy, the young Brit agreed to the suggestion, glad about that his friend didn’t ask why he had looked all hungrily at his arms. How should have Lando explained it, that he had dreamed about sitting down onto these arms. Sitting down naked and rub himself against his arm.

Luckily the rest of the late afternoon stayed without any awkward moments and the two of them actually had a lot of fun with playing FIFA, eating pizza and watching a movie later together.

Because Carlos still had the next day off as well, just like also Lando himself, he asked carefully if they maybe wanted to do something together. And because he knew how much the older one liked to play golf, he suggested going to the golfing course not far away from here, but he had to warn him, he was a failure in golf as well.

But the second Lando had said out loud the word golf, Carlos was already all thrilled about it and agreed instantly with a wide smile. So the two of them went golfing the next afternoon and like the day before, the Spaniard was once again all patient with him and also showed him some of his tricks.

About that he got pretty close to him, whenever he tried to show him how he should hold the club properly, Lando didn’t really complain about. He only had to make sure that he also still listened to his words and he also needed to remember what he had just showed him, so he won’t look like a complete fool like yesterday once again.

They had spent the whole afternoon at the golf course, until Carlos challenged Lando that he will invite him for dinner, if he will make it with just one hit. If not, he had to invite him for dinner.

The younger one agreed to it of course, but he wasn’t expecting the next, when the Spaniard played unfair, when he told him with one of his cheeky smirks. “Just like a date.”

For one brief moment Lando was afraid about that he was making fun of him, that he had to count one and one together and had got it that his press officer had a thing for him, but then his smirk quickly changed into one of his usual soft smiles again.

“I have just wanted to make you a little nervous, pequeño.” He told him with a wink, but Lando still wasn’t sure about that. Maybe he had only wanted to see his reaction to be sure what he already suspected and well, latest now Carlos was probably one hundred percent sure about it.

“C’mon, I know you can do this.” Like already so many times before, he encouraged him the sweetest way, always being so supportive and he also always believed in him, no matter if it was only in golf or when it came to their jobs.

Lando breathed deep through once again, while trying to remember what his friend had just showed and caught him, before he hit the ball all gently and he really sank the ball at his first try. “Well, where do you want to go for dinner? I knew you can do this, pequeño.”

Because the young Brit first wanted to change into some more decent clothes, Carlos followed his car to his place. Because he didn’t want to be impolite, he asked his friend if he wanted to come inside, while he will wait for him.

Like Carlos the other day, Lando showed him around his place, before he promised him to be right back in less than five minutes. He was focused on the sleeve of his shirt, while he went downstairs, that he hadn’t even noticed the older one filming him while doing so.

Only when Carlos made that one whistle sound, telling him that he looked pretty handsome, his eyes snapped up at him and his cheeks instantly blushed. “Good evening, sir.” The Spaniard welcomed him back, while he beamed up at him like a kid on Christmas morning.

And because Lando didn’t come up with something better, he only said a quick, awkward “Hello.” in return. After Carlos had finally stopped to record, he told the younger one all honestly “You are looking good.” His cheeks only blushed into an even deeper red, while Lando bit down onto his lip and finally managed to say a small thank you in response.

They did spend a great evening together, when Carlos brought them over to his favourite restaurant not even Lando had known before. He had there the best burger ever, while he got lost in his friend’s eyes more often than he should. Being back at home he could still feel those butterflies inside his belly and even when it did sound silly, he already missed the Spaniard right now.

Unluckily Singapore was once again a disappointing race, before they directly left for Russia. By now Lando already dared to say that he slowly but sure started to enjoy his job. He finally knew what to do and he also wasn’t that nervous any more. He already knew every member of their team, he also came along very well with Caco, Rupert and of course also Carlos.

Lando was already in his room, still struggling with his jet leg why he didn’t feel that tired like he should actually already feel, when Carlos wrote him, if he maybe wanted to come over to watch a movie or something, because he was feeling the same.

“Where are Rupert and Caco?” The young Brit asked confused, after he had entered the racer’s room and saw that the two of them were alone. “Rupert has already flown back to the UK and Caco isn’t feeling so well.”

“Oh, okay.” It was the first time the two of them would be alone, normally either his trainer or his cousin or usually even both of them, would join them. He really wasn’t feeling uncomfortable any more with being all alone with the Spaniard, but watching a movie while lying on his bed was something different.

From time to time, Lando dared to look over at him from the corner of his eyes, still not believing that they were laying so close to each other. He could even take in his scent and feel his warmth, how bad he had wanted to snuggle closer at that moment.

Finally, the tiredness still took over the upper hand of his body, when Lando dozed off in the middle of the movie. He just had one of his best dreams ever, being far away in some kind of different universe, it just had to be, because he was indeed laying in Carlos’ arms there, while he held him all close and let him snuggle against his chest.

He could feel his hands all over his arms, stroking up and down that spot all comfortingly and whispering his name into his ear. “Lando. Hey, pequeño.” When Lando got it that Carlos’ voice did sound way too real to only be in his dream, he forced himself to open his eyes, even when he would have liked to stay in that dream forever.

Affectionately the Spaniard looked down at him with a compassionate smile on his lips. “Welcome back. You have fallen asleep.” Still sleepily and very confused, the young Brit only blinked up at him, which caused Carlos to tilt his head and stroke that single curl out of his face. “If you want you can stay here over the night.” Carlos whispered down to him, while Lando still woke up and tried to understand what was going on.

The second he had got it where he was, in Carlos’ bed, that he had fallen asleep there and the older one even offered him to stay here for the night, right next to him, in one bed, caused Lando to get fully awake from one second to the other.

“No. I.. I don’t want to bother you. I’m sorry, it really wasn’t my intention.” Lando stammered sleep drunken, before he crawled out of bed and plucked his clothes back on their places. “It’s alright. I mean, you wouldn’t have bothered me at all.” Carlos told him, the disappointment in his voice he couldn’t hide and also the little flame of hope he still had for the younger one to stay right next to his side.

Suddenly the whole situation became too uncomfortable and too much for Lando. He couldn’t understand what was going on here, maybe he was really still dreaming. “I.. I will better go now.” He stammered quickly, trying to get away from here as fast as possible, before he could change his mind and crawl back into the bed right next to the man he wanted so badly.

The moment the Spaniard stood up from the bed as well and went over to the door, Lando had thought for one brief moment that he won’t let him go and even when his heart was just by the thought already all happily jumping inside his chest, his brain yelled at him to somehow escape from here, before anything could happen he will badly regret later.

But Carlos knew when he had lost the fight. Like the gentleman he was, he only opened the door for Lando and wished him good night and sweet dreams. The younger one murmured to him good night as well and thanked him for the evening, before he slipped outside and almost ran the corridor down to his own room.

Even when he had been so tired before, he couldn’t fall asleep any more for the next hours. And something told him that Carlos felt the exact same way. Hating the empty place right next to him, where just minutes ago someone so special had been sleeping like a little angel.

As bad as the weekend in Japan had started with the typhoon raging over the land as good the race had ended for Carlos. P5, by now Lando had tears in his eyes every time his friend finished a race all healthy, but he got even more emotional, when he came home with such a great result, knowing how happy the driver himself will be.

But yeah, it wasn’t an easy weekend for all of them first. Already on Friday afternoon they had got to know about that there will be no session on Saturday, neither practice nor qualifying. With the knowledge of having the next day off more or less, Lando wanted to meet with his childhood friend Sacha, who was studying in Japan since two years and he barely saw him any more since he wasn’t in the UK any more.

All fancy dressed, Lando just wanted to get downstairs into the hotel’s restaurant to meet with Sacha there, when Carlos crossed his way, making that one whistle sound again like back at his place. “You are looking very handsome tonight, pequeño. What are your plans for tonight, normally you don’t wear such clothes at this time of the day.”

Like always, Lando’s cheeks had blushed by the Spaniard’s compliment and embarrassed he tried to avoid his friend’s eyes, before he told him “I will meet with Sacha for dinner.” Surprised, because he hadn’t expected that kind of voice, his eyes snapped up at the older one instantly, when Carlos asked pretty quickly and maybe also a tiny bit jealous “Who is Sacha?”

“Sacha is my friend. We know each other since we are kids. He studies here in Japan and since we don’t have much to do, I have thought it would be nice to see him. It’s been months since he had been in the UK the last time.” It did almost sound like an apology or like he wanted Carlos to ask for his permission for meeting his friend.

Maybe also the older one noticed so, why his voice quickly changed from curious and jealous into soft and understanding again. “Oh, that sounds great actually. I mean, for the two of you finally seeing each other again.” Carlos also offered him one of his sweet smiles, almost like an apology from him now. “Yeah, I actually can’t wait to see him again.”

“Then I don’t want to hold you up any longer. Have fun and have a nice evening, pequeño.” The Spaniard wished and like always he just had to touch him, his shoulder this time, only when it had been just for a brief moment. “Thanks, have a nice evening as well.”

Lando suspected the driver to watch a movie together with his cousin and trainer and maybe they had done so, but Lando and Sacha had just finished their dinner, when the three of them entered the restaurant to take some drink at the bar.

The Spaniard’s eyes had scanned the room for his younger friend and he smiled to himself, when he finally spotted him and the other young man on one of the tables on their way to the bar. And something told Lando that the three of them weren’t here by accident. Maybe Caco and Rupert were, but Carlos had probably wanted to check on his friend and maybe also get to know who that Sacha was.

Still he let Caco spot Lando first, so it wasn’t too obvious. They started some small talk, about how their dinner was, about the movie the three of them had watched and Lando also introduced Sacha to them.

“We have just wanted to take a drink. Do you maybe want to join us?” Carlos asked well-meant and Lando even bought him so. He kind of felt touched about the Spaniard’s overprotecting way, about that he didn’t find his peace, while exactly knowing that he had dinner with someone Carlos didn’t know yet and so couldn’t tell, if he could leave his friend all alone with that person or not.

But the Spaniard really didn’t have to worry about that at all. Lando’s mother had always said that Sacha was the only person on this world, who was one time cuter than her youngest son. Sacha was indeed everyone's sunshine and Lando’s best friend since he could think and finally also Carlos got that after a few drinks and they have talked for a while.

Shortly before midnight, they did end their evening and when Carlos saw Lando and Sacha saying goodbye to each other like that, hugging close and exactly seeing that they didn’t want to let go from each other, not ready for leaving the other one’s life already now again, he suggested out of the blue.

“Why don’t you join us tomorrow, Sacha? There will be a FIFA tournament of almost all drivers and later we want to go bowling.” Not only Sacha, also Lando was surprised about that invite. “Are you serious? I mean, do you think the other drivers will be okay with that?” Sacha still blinked at him in shock, like it wasn’t already excited enough to meet one F1 driver.

“Sure. We will also join them and we are also not drivers, right Lando?” Caco answered to the young Argentine’s question, looking from Rupert, who nodded agreeing his head, over to Lando, who eventually also nodded his head and also finally realized that Caco was right.

“Yeah. Oh please, Sacha. It would be so much fun, we haven’t done something like that since a half eternity. But of course, only if it won’t be too dangerous for you to come to here tomorrow.” Lando begged his friend, who finally nodded agreeing his head, the excitement was written in his face already as well. “Great.” The young Brit cheered, before he hugged his friend once again and maybe Carlos had only said so, so Lando will be happy. He just always wanted to make him happy.

Luckily Sacha could really make it to their hotel all safely the next day. They did spend the whole morning with playing FIFA together. Not only for Sacha, but also for Lando it was still very excited to be under the F1 drivers, to be kind of a part of them or at least they all accepted them.

Lando could also always feel Carlos’ eyes resting on them, especially on him, making sure that everyone was nice to them. They all had a lot of fun and the two friends got to know that F1 drivers were also only humans in the end of the day.

For lunch the five of them got into some Japanese restaurant, which was in their hotel as well. They all made a little fun of Lando, because of his aversion towards fish. But luckily the restaurant also offered something without any fish for him.

After they had also granted themselves some delicious Japanese dessert, they got downstairs into the bowling area. Lando didn’t exactly know any more how it had led to it, but suddenly he founded himself pinned against the floor, Carlos above himself, leaning over him and pressing his palms against his chest.

The younger one had challenged his friend once again, exactly being aware about that Carlos always wanted to win. And of course, also this time. But if loosing meant to get pressed against the floor and being captured under the Spaniard’s body, Lando will lose with pleasure every time from today on.

Lightly Carlos was shaking his shoulders and tickled his side, till those cute giggles escaped his lips and they both beamed at each other. Maybe they did hold their connection for one moment too long, while the older one’s hand had already stopped and they only looked deep into each other’s eyes and their smiles slowly but sure faded away.

“That was amazing, guys.” They could hear Sacha cheering from a little distance, who had filmed the whole act and had so finally also brought them back to reality. Carlos offered his friend his hand and helped him to stand up again, even trying to get his wild curls under control, when he almost stroked with his fingertips through his hair strains, leaving Lando behind with goose bumps and a warm shiver running down his back.

Later that day, Lando had probably taken his mouth too full, when he had challenged Carlos ones again and like a few hours ago he lost again, but unluckily he had agreed to a bet before. Suddenly the young Brit found himself in the arms of his friends, with his pants down to his uncles.

When he was back on his feet and put his pants on their actual place again, he could feel Carlos’ eyes resting on him. On his thin, smooth legs, on the small curve of his ass cheeks and of course he could also feel his eyes on his middle, checking him out.

And just the thought about that the Spaniard’s eyes were fixed on that part of his body, caused Lando to feel all hot and he was also relieved about his pants being right back on their place again, when he could feel himself swelling.

Before they got up to Carlos’ room to watch a movie to end the day, Sacha said goodbye and thanked them all for that funny day. Like yesterday, Lando hugged his friend long and told him how happy he had been to finally see him again and spend some time with him together. Also the other three told the young Argentine, that it was very nice to meet him and they would be happy to see him soon again at one of the races.

Caco and Rupert left for the own rooms the moment the movie was finally over, then even if today had been all fun and relaxed, tomorrow will be even more stressful and exhausting with qualifying and the race at just one day.

While Carlos brought the two of them over to the door and said goodbye to them for the night, Lando got over to the big window and looked all thoughtful and also worried outside to where the typhoon was still visible present.

“Are you scared, pequeño?” Carlos’ tender voice came finally to his ears, after he had watched him standing there for some moments. Slowly Lando turned around to his friend, eying him through his lashes, before he nodded and bit down onto his bottom lip.

The Spaniard stepped closer, right next to his side, when he whispered to him comfortingly “You don’t have to be scared. Nothing can harm you. I will take care of you, pequeño. I have got you.” Lando wasn’t only expecting it, he was even waiting for it longingly, to finally be in his friend’s strong and safe arms again.

Instinctively he wrapped his arms around the Spaniard’s belly, leaned into the embrace and closed his eyes to enjoy their closeness fully, while his nose was buried into the curve of his neck and he inhaled Carlos’ already so familiar and comforting scent.

“I’m not scared about me. I’m actually scared about you.” Lando whispered and caused the Spaniard to shiver, when his warm breath hit the sensitive skin of his neck. “You don’t have to be scared about me, pequeño. I will take care of myself, I promise.”

But still, Lando had to think about Jules, he just had to with being at this place, but he also had to think about Anthione and to all that also this scary weather. The young Brit was really concerned about his friend and best he didn’t want him to jump into his car the next day.

“Please, be careful tomorrow.” Lando almost begged him, because he wouldn’t know what he would do if anything should happen to him. Carlos pulled him even closer against his warm body then, caressed over his back to calm down his nerves and seal his already given promise with a soft kiss into his hairline.

Lando snuggled even closer at his friend, while he breathed through and told himself to believe the older one. It was actually the only thing he could do anyway, next to praying. Lando didn’t know how long the two of them were hugging and standing close like that, while the typhoon was howling outside the window.

Carlos kept his word, of course he did, like always did. He kept the nerves and didn’t only came back to Lando like he had promised him, he did even end the race on P5. Since a few weeks it had already become their routine that first Lando hugged Carlos compete overjoyed all tightly, before he recorded his thoughts after the race.