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Lance tries his best to avoid large groups, even if that means most of the time not going to the end of year group dinners. The fans always noticed and called him out on it, even if he wasn’t the only one to miss them. He frankly only went this year just so the fans would leave him alone, hopefully. When he got there most of the other drivers were already there but luckily Esteban saved the seat beside him for Lance, which also put Lance at the end of the table so he was only sitting beside Esteban. The dinner went well for the most part, he was able to just talk to Esteban and eat his food. But as the food finished drinks started coming and now that the season was officially over they didn’t care as much. It was also getting to the point where Lance was getting overstimulated by everything. There was so much noise from everyone talking, plates and glasses being moved and it was getting too much. Esteban can tell Lance was getting overwhelmed just from how he was acting.
“You alright?” Esteban asked, gently knocking his shoulder against Lance’s.
“Yeah, fine.”
“You don’t need to lie to me I know you’re not. Want to head out?”
“No I’m okay. I finally show up I can’t be the first one to leave. I’m alright for a little bit longer.” Lance knew he was lying, Esteban knew he was lying but wasn’t going to call him out on it.
“Are you sure. We can go back to my room and watch a movie.”
“I’ll let you know Esteban I promise.”
Esteban watched Lance for the next several minutes, and could tell Lance was the opposite of fine. He was speaking even less and was fidgeting with the silverware on the table. Esteban was also ready to leave and was prepare to take the fall for them leaving first.
“Let’s go home.” Esteban said quietly to Lance.
“Estie.”
“No it’s okay. Most of them are half way to drunk and won’t notice if we’ve left early. I promise.” Lance wanted to put up a fight but he was tired and done with people for the day.
“Alright, yeah let’s head out.” No one notice they left, slipping out her back door of the restaurant. As promised they headed back to Esteban’s hotel room to watch a movie. It was dark and quiet and exactly what Lance needed. He ended up falling asleep leaned against Esteban’s side, Esteban laid them both down gently as to not wake Lance.