I Care ~ Lando Norris

Chapter 28: Racing Bonds and Unraveled Mysteries

Over the next few days, as I settled into the routine of Oscar's household, Luna's excitement became a guiding force. She showed me around, introduced me to neighbors, and shared her favorite spots. Oscar's parents, with their genuine hospitality, made me feel at ease.

As the weekend approached, anticipation buzzed in the air. The Grand Prix was about to begin, and I found myself sitting in the living room with Luna, Oscar's mom, and dad. The TV flickered to life, broadcasting the familiar scenes of the racetrack.

Luna, nestled beside me on the couch, couldn't contain her enthusiasm. "Isabella, I know this isn't the same as being on the track itself but you're going to love watching Oscar, Lando, and Charles race! It's so exciting!"

Oscar's mom, a warm and welcoming presence, handed me a bowl of popcorn. "Make yourself at home, Isabella. We're thrilled to have you here with us."

I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude for their hospitality. As the camera panned to the grid, showcasing the vibrant colors of the racing world, I couldn't help but be reminded of the life I temporarily left behind.

Luna, noticing my contemplative expression, nudged me with a playful grin. "You're part of our racing family now!"

Oscar's dad, a twinkle in his eye, joined the conversation. "And speaking of family, we've got quite a few racers to cheer for, don't we?"

I nodded, a sense of excitement building. The roar of the engines filled the room as the race commenced. Luna, in her exuberance, cheered for Oscar with unbridled enthusiasm. Oscar's mom and dad joined in, creating a lively atmosphere that echoed the camaraderie of the racing world.

As I soaked in the energy of the room, I couldn't resist the urge to fully embrace the moment. Oscar's McLaren shirt draped over me, the number 81 proudly displayed. Ferrari pants, a nod to Charles, adorned my legs. My wrist adorned with bracelets matching those of Charles, a subtle connection to the familiar faces on the track.

In a playful twist, I found myself wearing Lando's cap, the number 4 emblazoned on it. The cap, a symbol of shared experiences and camaraderie, felt like a bridge connecting the world I left behind with the new one I was discovering.

Luna giggled, delighted by my impromptu racing ensemble. "You look like a true fan, Isabella!"

Oscar's mom chuckled, sharing in the amusement. "It seems like you've inherited a bit of everyone's spirit."

As the race unfolded on the screen, the room erupted into cheers and shouts. Luna, in her youthful exuberance, leaped from the couch with each exciting maneuver. Oscar's parents, seasoned racing enthusiasts, offered insightful commentary, making me feel like I was part of their racing traditions.

The living room, adorned with the colors and symbols of the racing world, became a sanctuary of shared joy. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of a new family, I realized that even in this temporary detour, the ties to the racing world remained strong.

As the checkered flag waved, signaling the end of the race, the room echoed with cheers. Luna, her eyes sparkling, turned to me. "Wasn't that amazing, Isabella?"

I nodded, a genuine smile playing on my lips. "Absolutely. Thanks for sharing this with me, Luna. It means more than you know."

Oscar's mom, sensing the significance of the moment, spoke with a warmth that resonated. "You're part of this now, Isabella. Whether you're at the track or here with us, you're always welcome."

The Grand Prix weekend, far from the circuits and podiums, became a celebration of newfound connections. As I sat in the midst of laughter and cheers, wearing the colors and symbols of those I held dear, I realized that even in this temporary escape, the spirit of racing and the bonds it forged remained unbroken.

In the midst of another joyous celebration after a Grand Prix, as Luna recounted her favorite moments and Oscar's parents shared stories of their racing experiences, I found solace in the warmth of their camaraderie. The colors and symbols that adorned me became not just a playful tribute but a tangible connection to the racing world that now embraced me.

I decided to take a break from the whirlwind of social media when I got here, creating a haven of peace where I could focus on the things that truly mattered. My private Twitter, a small corner of the internet reserved for friends, became the only window into my world. It was a deliberate choice to step away from the constant chatter and speculations that surrounded my life.

With my phone set aside, I immersed myself in the melodies of my guitar and the verses of my songs. The creative process became a sanctuary, a place where emotions flowed freely, unburdened by the external noise. The music became a conversation with my soul, each note a reflection of the journey I was navigating.

As the weeks passed, the F1 community, fueled by curiosity and speculation, began to notice my absence from the Grand Prix. Theories and rumors circulated among fans, each more imaginative than the last. Some speculated that I was working on a secret project, while others thought I got in a huge fight with one of the drivers I was close with.

The drivers, my friends within the F1 family, were not immune to the intrigue. Messages began to trickle in, each filled with genuine concern and a touch of playful curiosity. Lando, always one to inject humor into any situation, sent a message that echoed his characteristic wit.

"Bella, the fans are convinced you've joined a secret racing league with unicorns as teammates. Any truth to that?"

I chuckled at his message, appreciating the lightheartedness that he brought to even the most mysterious situations. Daniel, with his infectious enthusiasm, sent a message filled with emojis and exclamation marks.

"Hey Isabella! What's the secret mission you're on? The F1 crew misses your energy in the paddock. Can't wait to have you back!"

Oscar, ever the supportive friend, reached out with a more heartfelt message.

"Isa, I hope everything's okay. We miss you at the races, and the team keeps asking about you. Whenever you're ready to come back, we're here."

Charles, with his calm and thoughtful demeanor, sent a message that reflected his understanding nature.

"Isabella, take all the time you need. Your well-being is the priority. Looking forward to catching up when the time is right."

As the messages from my friends poured in, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of gratitude and a pang of guilt. The genuine concern and the questions from fans painted a picture of a racing world that missed my presence. The decision to step away, while necessary for my well-being, carried the weight of impact that I hadn't fully anticipated.

Lando, in a more serious tone, reached out with a message that hinted at the gravity of the situation.

"Bella, the fans are angry at me. They think I'm the reason you're not at the Grand Prix. I've been bombarded with questions. Are you okay?"

His words unveiled a layer of complexity I hadn't considered – the repercussions my temporary absence had on those close to me. I felt a wave of empathy for Lando, who found himself at the center of questions and concerns, all stemming from the mystery surrounding my departure.

Charles, too, faced inquiries about my well-being. The realization that my choice to step away had unintentionally affected my friends and brothers weighed heavily on my mind.