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Chapter Text

It was strange to be in Australia again, Lando cannot lie about that.

For almost 4 years he was a lot here in Perth. He was there of course for Daniel. He and Lando had a relationship and that started in the winter season back in 2020. Daniel had invited him to come over to his for some fun and to get each other know more.

Well they did got to know each other a lot more. Lando stayed for three more weeks and he went back home for Christmas. But two days later he was back in Daniels place and he stayed there even more days. And they both couldn't lie to their parents when they asked if they had feelings for the other. They went on multiple dates and on 31 December when the clock started 12 Daniel asked Lando to be his boyfriend.

But now they have broken up almost a half year ago. 23 September Daniel broke up with Lando. He needed some space and Lando could understand why. But it hurted him that he broke up with him for that reason. He knew that Daniel doesn't want anything to do with Formula 1 anymore. After what Red Bull did to him and he has every right to do so. But it hurt Lando a lot that he broke up with him for that reason.

Lando didn't here a single thing from Daniel. Did his feelings for the men fade away? No, not even a little bit. He miss Daniel so much that his heart still aches when he thinks to much about it. George and Alex were at his house for a whole month to keep a eye on Lando. They went on a little vacation and Lando is really lucky to have them. He has daily contact with Max and Charles and they have always been there for him too.

He was really lucky to have them and his family. They understands his feelings, they accept that his feelings are still not away. Because they all know Daniel was his first real love, the one who really meant the world to him. Lando would do anything for Daniel.

Was it healthy? No, Lando knew that, but he couldn't to anything about it. He could continue with his life. He spent a lot of days with friends, family and he even was alone for a lot of days but everything was okay. Yes he misses Daniel but after a few weeks he could go on but not move on.

So yeah it was strange to be back in Australia. It brings back a lot of happy moments. He even is in the same hotelroom they were in last year.

Their team principals knew about their relationship, but the Fia not. Almost every driver knew but lucky it never went into the media. The fans know how close they are and they never made that a secret. It was just a little easier to be together because everyone knew how close they were. And now the media has his questions.

~~~

On Monday Lando had some interviews on the laptop. He entered a call and he put on his camera. He answered some questions about pre season testing, how he think the season will go and where they stand, he got some questions about him and Oscar and of course about his relationship with Max after last season. One of the last questions was about who on the grid he got on the best.

"The guy I always probably got on best more than anyone was probably Daniel. I know he's not in formula one now, but we still talk every now and then. We have a good relationship. He's a very genuine guy. He's a very fun guy, always laughing, always wanting to enjoy his life and that the kind if mentally I have. So, I know he's not on the grid now, sadly. But Danny Ric was always the guy who I enjoyed and had the most laughs with. "

He couldn't help it because it was the truth. Daniel was always the one who made everything more enjoyable. Yes, he lied about the talking. He don't want to make a scene.

That night he cried again for the first time in a few weeks. He really really misses Daniel. And he know Daniel will be here for the Enchanté pop up store that will be here in Melbourne. He hates the feeling how he feels Daniel is close again. It makes him feel miserable again, it makes his heart ache for how much he misses him.

~~~

On Wednesday he was walking through Melbourne. He was on the phone with his manager when he walks through the street. He was looking around while he waves at some fans so now and then. Jon, his trainer and some friends are walking in front of him.

He walks around the corner and he sees a lot of female and men standing outside. He looks at the blue building while the shouting gets louder he smiles and waves before reading whats on the window.

Enchanté

It was Daniel his pop up store for this weekend.

His name is being called and he waves more while he gets closer and closer to the shop.

"Yeah, that's alright." Lando answer his manager and he catch a look from inside the pop up store. A lot of people were in there looking through all the clothes.

He starts waking slower and slower to see more inside the pop up store. Normally he would immediately text Daniel and take photo and tell him how proud he is.

Because he is.

He still feels so proud and happy that the people always comes when Daniel organise something. He will never be forgotten, because the fans love him to much to let him go.

But what Lando wouldn't thought would happen was to see the men himself.

Lando stands still while he looks at Daniel. He is laughing and talking in the microfoon.

Lando doesn't hear Mark talking on the phone, he doesn't notice Jon calling his name or the fans who are shouting and filming him. His eyes are only on Daniel.

He looked really good and healthy. His real smile was there again and Lando could feel his happiness.

God, he looks really really good.

Daniel starts laughing, probably about something someone said. Daniel walks away and Lando automatic takes a few steps to the right sight to have Daniel back in his sight. He gets a smile on his face when he sees Daniel again and he just watch.

When someone place a hand on his shoulder it's like he is bringing back to earth. He looks aside where Jon is and now he hears Mark too.

"Lando? Lando everything okay?" Mark ask.

"You okay Lan?" Jon ask terwijl hij zacht knijpt in Lando's schouder.

Lando looks from Jon to Daniel and back to Jon. He nods and he looks at Daniel again.

"Mark? Is it okay if I call you back in a few minutes?" Lando ask.

"Yes, of course. Everything okay?"

"Yes, everything is okay. I will call you back." Lando says before hanging up.

"Come we have to continue otherwise we will be late." Jon says and Lando nods softly. He takes one good look at Daniel before leaving. He takes a deep breath while Jon place a hand on his back.

"It's difficult isn't it?" "I didn't expect to see him. It was like the world around me disappeared. I didn't even hear Mark anymore." "You didn't even here me shouting your name." Says Jon and Lando looks at him.

"I'm sorry." "It's okay, really. How are you feeling?" "Like I can't wait to be in bed." Lando says with a chuckle before shaking his head.

"Why can't I let him go Jon?" "Because your love for him is so strong nothing could beat that."

"I hate it."

"I understand. Maybe you need to talk to him. You didn't had a good one last conversation. Maybe that's why you can't let him go. You still have so many questions for him." "You're right." Lando signs while he looks back one more time before they walk around the corner.

"You are now in the same country. Maybe he's free tonight for a talk."

"No, absolutely not." Lando immediately says.

His heart beating is speeding up and he feels how sweaty his hand are. He is panicking about the idea talking to Daniel. While it was his favourite thing to do and he really miss it. But now he can panic about it.

What will he tell Daniel?

"It's a scary thing isn't it?" Jon says and Lando nods. "And you know you don't have to talk to him, but this is the moment if you want. After this weekend you will fly away again and he will stay here in Australia. And the rest of the year you will be very busy." Jon says and Lando nods.

"I know." Lando says and he bits his under lip and he scratch the skin near his thumb with his nail.

"But right know I don't know what I will do." "Think about it, okay?" Jon says and Lando nods.

He will think a lot about it.

~~~

When Lando was back in his hotel he took a shower before he laid down in his bed and putted the blanket around his head. He pressed his face into the pillow while the tears are rolling down his cheek. He isn't sobbing, just silent crying. He is thinking back about Daniel and how he looked today. He had so many mixed feeling, he doesn't even know how he feels.

Sad

Angry

Helpless

His heart aches by just thinking about him. It's like he is back on the day after Daniel broke up with him.

And after hours of being alone and feeling like this he calls Alex. He doesn't want to be alone.

His head is not in the right head space and he wants some peace.

"Hey Lan." Alex says and Lando can imagine the smile he has on his face.

"Hey, you busy?" Lando ask softly. "No, we are not busy. You okay Lando?" "George is there too?" "Yeah, he is with me. We are both free now." Alex says and the tears are back in Lando his eyes. "Can you please come?" Zijn stem slaat over midden in de zin en Lando knijpt in de deken.

"We are on our way. You did sent me your hotelroom last night right?" "Yeah I did." "Okay, we are on our way Lan." "Thank you." Lando sobs.

It was the first few sobs, he really tried being strong. But now he knows Alex and George are on their way and he could let go of watching out for himself. He knew they would look out for him, he trust them so much. He could cry and do what he wants while they keep an eye of him. They will make sure he eats, drinks and more important talk.

They stay on the phone and when Lando opens the door Alex will hang up.

Lando sobs while Alex press him close to him.

"I-I saw h-him. I-I...." the coughs didn't let him finish his sentence.

"Oh Lan, that must have been hard. Come take a few steps back so we can come in and close the door before anyone hears." Alex says and Lando nods.

They take a few steps back and George closes the door before putting his arms around Lando.

Lando cries into their shoulders and they let him cry for how long he needs. At some point they were lying down in bed and when Lando was ready he would start talking.

George grabs three bottles of water and he gives them to the other two.

"Come, let sit up for a moment." George says while he grabs Lando's hand. Lando sits up and George opens the water bottle before handing it to Lando who takes a few sips. He takes a deep breath in and out before wiping away his tears.

"I saw Daniel in his pop up store." Lando says before taking a breath again. George plays his hand on Lando's leg. "We were walking through the streets when I saw his pop store. I was looking inside and I was just looking how happy all the fans were. And then I saw him. It made me starstruck. It was like nobody was there anymore. The fans, Jon, Mark and some friends from Jon, I didn't notice them anymore. God there must me so many videos online." Lando groans and he put his face into his hands.

"You didn't expect him to be there." Alex says and Lando shakes his head. "I knew he would be in Melbourne for the pop up store, but I would never thought I would see him. I was just looking inside to see the fans and everything and then a few seconds later he stepped into the sight."

"And how did that made you feel at that point?" Alex ask.

"He looked so good, so healthy and happy." "Yeah?" George ask and Lando nods. "It made me feel proud to see all the fans. They were there for him and I'm so glad and proud they still do even if he doesn't drive in F1 anymore. They still love him so much and his smile told me he knew that."

"They will never forget him. He is so loved." George says and Lando nods.

"And now it hurts because I was thinking maybe he really thinks he made a good desicion. He really shuts everything off which has to do with formula 1. Only for Melbourne he opens his door a little bit. Maybe he is already over me and has forgotten me. And that made me really really sad again."

"I understand Lan. That feeling must hurt so much. You still have so many questions for him, it's still not closed off for you. Maybe it  is for him." Alex says.

"Jon thinks I need to talk to him. Maybe that can help me move on."

"And he is probably right about that." George says and Lando looks at him. "But I'm not ready to see him. I freaked out by just seeing him and he didn't even noticed me. And by just the thought of speaking to him made me panic a little. I am not ready to speak to him." Lando says and he goes through his curls.

"But will you ever be ready for something like this?" Alex ask and Lando looks at him before looking down.

"I don't know... Maybe?"

"No, this is something you have to do even if your not ready. You will never be ready for a conversation like this. I know I would never be ready." George says.

"But you and Alex will never be in this position because you both are like soulmates. You have been together for what? 9 years?"

"8 almost 9." Alex says.

"See?! Daniel and I have been together for not even 4 years. You can't compare that."

"But you both are in a different situation then we are." George says.

"Alex was dropped too after 2020! You made it work."

"It wasn't easy Lan, you know that." Alex says and Lando nods.

"I know, but you made it work. I know it wasn't easy, but George means the world to you. Even if you never had a seat again you still wants to be with George, even if he continues with formula 1."

"Yeah ofcourse, but-" "Daniel didn't even try."

"But Daniel did the first time." George says and Lando looks at him. "When he was dropped by Mclaren you both stayed together."

"Because he knew he still would have a chance to come back." "He could have broken up with you that time too." George says and Lando sighs.

"I know, but he didn't. And now he did and the reason is shit."

"It is and that's why you need to talk to him." Alex says and he plays his hand on Lando's arm.

"And I know that difficult but maybe it's the best for you. Because we know you can't move on from him. But that because of all the questions you have."

"I want to move on, but the other side tells me to not do it. I believe that Daniel still loves me. He can't just stop loving me when he's done with Formule 1. He can stop loving me when I'm not good enough anymore. But that wasn't the reason because I did everything for him. I-I... You understand what I mean."

"We do, we really do. And we are behind you for that, but I think a conversation will be the best for you. At some point you do have to let him go. This isn't good for you either, Lan. You have a long season ahead of you and you need to focus on that and not on him. If he doesn't want you back then that is his own fault, his own loss." Alex says.

"And we know Daniel was your first love, but there are so many fishes in the sea. And you don't have to start a new relationship in a few months, that can take years. But you deserve someone who loves you and the real you. Not the driver you." George says and a tear rolls down Lando's cheek.

"But I don't want any other fish then Daniel." Lando says softly while Alex whipes away his tear.

"I know Lan and that's why a break up isn't easy. So please for the sake of yourself talk to him. This isn't healthy for you Babe." Alex says and Lando nods softly.

"I know." Lando says and George grabs his hand.

"And just know that you will never be alone in his. Alex and I are here and if you need us then we are there for you."

"You will probably get sick of me. You guys have been with me so much. You didn't even had some time for yourself." Lando says.

"We had lots of time together. You gave us enough space for that." George says while he let Lando's hand go.

"Lan, we would do that all over again for you. You are so important for us, okay? We did that with all our love and I would do it again for a thousands of times if we have to. You are like my little brother and I can't stand seeing you like this. So if we can make your life more happy with us being with you I will do that." Alex says and Lando smiles softly while he whips away some tears.

"I know you both would. Thank you for everything you already did for me." Lando smiles and George and Alex smiles too. They both hug him.

"Please think for once about yourself and talk to him." George says for one last time.

~~~

Thursday was media day.

It was a messy night, but he got through it. Alex and George left after a few hours because Lando said so. They both would have stayed if Lando wanted that, but Lando knew they had to take some rest too. He knows how his nights can be and he doesn't want Alex nor George being tired because of him. So he kicked them both out of his room around 11 o'clock.

Alex texted him early in the morning if he slept okay and if he needed something.

Lando couldn't wish for better friends then them.

But Lando said he slept okay and that he will leave soon to the track. But it was further away from the truth. He slept really bad, the only thing he could think about was Daniel and their memories together. He looked at all the photos and videos of them in his phone. He even saw a picture they made in this hotel room and Lando looked at that place for too long after that.

He eventually fell asleep, but Lando was really tired when his alarm went off.

Now he was on his way back from the fanzone. He has a meeting and after the meeting he needs to be at the media pen for some interviews.

In the evening he saw Blake, Daniels manager. Lando had to walk past the Racing Bulls and there he saw a familiar face.

"Hello mate." Lando smiles and he gives Blake a hand. "Hello, how are you doing?"

"I'm doing good, how are you? What are you doing here?" Lando ask.

"I'm just getting by and say everyone hello. It's been a while since a last saw you."

"It has. Times flying. And now there is a new season again."

"Is everything looking good for you?" Blake ask and Lando nods. "It looks like it but you never know for sure. We will learn a lot this weekend."

"That for sure. I will root for you." Blake says and Lando smiles. "Thank you."

"And how are you doing after everything?" Blake ask and Lando bits his lip and shrugs his shoulders.

"It's been difficult. I understand his choice but I can't understand it too. It's difficult." "I understand. I thought he was yoking at first."

"I wish he was."

"Do you still have feelings for him?" Blake ask and Lando nods. "I still have so many questions and I think that why I can't move on from him. I really love him." "I understand, that's difficult. Just know it was not easy for him too." Blake says.

"Did he talk with you about it?" Lando ask and Blake shakes his head. "Not a lot. After Singapore when he was back home he took two completely weeks off with almost no contact. But he is happier now, that's what he is telling me."

"That's what he deserves." Lando says and Blake nods. "But he still is really stupid what he did to you. It was not necessary."

"But for him probably it was. I haven't spoke to him ever since." Lando says. "I know he wants to talk to you. I don't know if your ready for that, but know that he is open to talk to you." Blake says and Lando looks away.

Daniel is open to talk to him. He could ask his questions to Daniel if he wants.

Was he ready for that?

Blake his name is being called and he looks up. "I have to go. I will see you again. Good luck this season."

"Thank you. Have a nice day." Lando says with a small smile and Blake smiles. "You too. Bye Lando." "Bye." Lando says before he walks away too.

He walks to his motorhome and he takes some deep breaths.

What does he need to do? He sits down and he put his head in his hands and he signs.

He has no idea what to do.

~~~

The day went by really fast and luckily for Lando he was really busy the whole time. He didn't had enough time to think about Daniel.

When he was free from the day he went to his car. On his way he saw Charles, Max, George and Alex talking with each other. He smiles and put his hands on Alex and George their back when he stands behind them.

"Hello." Lando smiles. "Hey mate." they all great him and Alex place his hand op Lando's back.

"Everything good?" Alex ask softly so only Lando could here it. Lando nods and smiles. "It will be okay." "Have you been thinking about it?"

"I have, I just don't know how to start up the conversation." Lando says and Alex nods.

"I understand."

"What conversation?" Charles ask and Lando looks at him. He, Max and George are all looking at him.

"With Daniel." Lando says.

"Did he text you?" Max ask and Lando shakes his head.

"You went to play padel with him didn't you Max?" George ask and Max nods. Lando looks at Max.

"Didn't he ask something about Lando?" George ask afterwards. "No not really. We were catching up a bit, but we mostly just played padel. He was really late and at some point I had to go." Max says and Lando looks down before looking at Max again.

"Just forget about it guys." Lando says to Alex en George.

"Not but Lan-" Alex tries but Lando shakes his head. "Daniel is really happy. I spoke to Blake today. He is over me and he is enjoying his life. It's okay."

"But you can't move on." George says and Lando looks at him. "I'm sorry I can't." Lando immediately says.

He wish he could.

"No he doesn't mean it like that Lan." Charles says and he grabs Lando's arm and he pulls him closer to him. "We are behind you, but it's now or never. Maybe it's better to let him go." Charles says. "But how do I  do that? I'm trying for already a few months."

"Maybe start with deleting his photo's and videos." George says and Lando head shoot to him.

"No."

"But that's why you can't move on Love." Charles says and Lando looks at him. "I can't Charlie." Lando says softly and Charles sighs and hugs him.

"I know it's difficult but it's probably the best thing to do. It is for your own Lan." "I know your right but it doesn't feel right." Lando says and Charles let him go.

"Maybe start with a few? Step by step?" Charles suggested and Lando nods. "Maybe."

"And if I try to talk with Daniel for you?" Max ask. "Just to see if he is open for a conversation."

Lando knows Daniel is open for a conversation. Blake said it to him. But he is in one big fight with himself what to do.

"Blake told me he is open for a conversation."

"Then please do it Lan." Alex says and he looks at him. "But I'm scared. What if that really is the end?" Lando says and he start scratching his skin with his nail.

"Then you know and you can start to move on. Right now you can't Lan." Max says and Lando looks at Max.

"I know it will be hard to hear but maybe you need that to let him go. And letting him go doesn't mean leaving him out of your life. You guys could still be friends. And maybe that will be difficult in the beginning but something special in the future." Max says and he has a point.

"I know it's over but I'm so scared to hear it another time. I just... I don't know." Lando says softly.

"You still love him so much Lando. And your scared to see the truth and I understand that. He was your first real Love and he made you really happy. You didn't choose this to end. That's the most difficult part of getting over him." Charles says and Lando nods.

"What if I never find anyone like Daniel?" Lando ask insecure and George place his hand on Lando's back.

"You will. And maybe not soon and that can take a few years. Maybe you will have some more relationships but nothing like him and that's okay. It will be scary, but you are so likeable, so loveable. There is someone so special waiting for you." George smiles and Lando looks down.

"I don't know."

"I know so. And I'm not the only one. And even if it take a few years you will never be alone and you know that." George says and Lando looks at him and nods.

"I know, thank you." Lando smiles softly and George hugs him.

"I will always be here for you, okay? Never forget." George whispers and he holds Lando even closer.

~~~

It was Saturday and it was some hectic days. Lando didn't send any message to Daniel.

Friday was a really busy day and when he was done he immediately went to his hotel room and looked at some data again. He didn't pick up the call Alex and George made. He wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone.

He had some more important things to focus on. He has a race weekend and he needs to take pole.

He knows how everyone secretly hope Oscar will take it since it is his home GrandPrix.

So last night he looked into the data, watched some onboards from himself, Oscar and other drivers. He wrote down some things he could try tomorrow in free practice 3.

And that's what he did. He stick to the plan Mclaren wanted but he tried some different things he saw other drivers do. He also explained them in the meeting after the free practice.

After the meeting he had some lunch before he had to get ready for qualifying.

And everything went well.

Lando got pole, Oscar was really close behind.

So after the press conference and all the interviews he went back to his room and changed into something more comfy before grabbing his phone and went to the meeting room. He sits down and he had to wait since a few people were still on their way. He grabs his phone and he looks at the screen. He sits up when he sees a familiar name.

Danny

Lando looks away from his phone and he but his lip. He makes eye contact with Oscar who smiles. "Everything okay?" he ask and Lando nods before looking at his phone again and he swipes down so he could read his text.

Danny

Congrats Lan! You really deserve it.

Grab that win tomorrow!

And next time when you are standing in front of the pop up store come and visit 😉

Lando sits up and he takes a deep breath.

Shit, did he saw him?

They didn't make any eye contact. So how did Daniel saw him? He was busy with the fans. Maybe he saw it through the video's only. But Daniel deleted X and Instagram back in August. Maybe he downloaded it again.

He bit his lip before clicking on it.

"You sure your okay?" Oscar ask as he sits down next to him. Lando looks at Oscar and he signs.

"I just spoke to Daniel." Oscar looks at him with a surprising look.

"Really?" Oscar ask and Lando nods. "He congratulating me and then I asked him if we could meet up."

"And you think that's a good idea? For yourself? You told me you found it really difficult to get over him."

"I'm not over him and that my problem. I have some questions and I need answers to that before I can let him go. I think I need the answer to get over him."

"But?"

"But what?"

"Well there is a but in this meet up." Oscar says and Lando signs and he shrugs his shoulders.

"Do you secretly hope for more then really end this?" Oscar ask and Lando looks at his fingers. His nail was scratching his thumb and he bit his lip.

His thumb looks really damaged because of these days.

"I guess. I hope he still loves me like I love him. I think I would forgive him in a second and be back with him. I just want him Osc."

"I know you do Lan. Break ups aren't easy and it's even harder when you still love him so much."

"A part of me believes he still wants me. That he made a mistake. It just feel like it." Lando says and Oscar grabs his finger to stop him from scratching.

"But please remind yourself that he also can say he doesn't want to continue." "I know." Lando whispers.

"Okay let's start." Zak begins and Lando looks up.

"If you want we can talk more after the meeting?" Oscar ask and Lando smiles. "Thank you." He says before Oscar stands up and takes his place in front of him.

But after the meeting Lando grabbed his stuff and left to his hotel room.

He shut himself off for everyone once again. He had one call with his manager before stepping into the shower. After that he went to bed. It was 9 o'clock but he didn't care. He was really tired.

He grabed his back and he picked out the bottle of sleeping pills. He hardly ever use them but sometimes he does.

And maybe he had taken a sleeping pill, but nobody has to know that.

~~~

Since Lando had woken up it was rain and only rain.

It was luckily a bit dry when they had the drivers parade.

There he saw the boys again. He hadn't really spoken to them. A little bit with Max, but that was about qualifying and not about Daniel.

"How are you?" Alex ask. "I'm okay, really. Don't worry about me." Lando answers.

"You know we do. You didn't react the last two days." says Charles.

"I know. I wanted to focus on the race weekend. I want to make a good start of the season."

"At least your starting in front of me so your doing good. No stress okay?" Max says and Lando smiles and nods. "I know, but the race will be unpredictable with the rain and everything."

"It sure will. It will be fun." George says and everyone nods.

"But if you all want to know. Tomorrow morning Daniel will come to me." Lando says and almost everyone looks in shock.

"What? Since when?" George ask. "He texted me after qualifying. He was meant to fly back yesterday but I asked him if we could talk." Lando answers.

"I hope you will find the peace after that." Charles says.

"Lan, would you like to fly with me? Then I will call that we will not fly tonight. I don't think Charlie will mind. Then you can fly with us if you want. That also applies for you George and Alex." Max aks.

"I don't mind if we stay a day longer." Charles says.

"I don't want you all to wait for me. I have a event in the afternoon so that means I can't fly in the morning." Lando says.

"That's okay, really. If you would like that then we will wait for you." "I think that would be nice. Thank you."

"Of course. I can ask if we could fly around 4? Is that possible?" "Yeah, that is perfect." Lando smiles. "Thank you, that means a lot."

"Alex? George?" "Yeah, I mean if Lando is okay with that?" Alex ask and Lando nods. "I would like that." Lando says and Alex smiles a little.

"Then we will fly with you." George says and Lando smiles and Max nods. "Perfect. Then I will give a call after this."

"How are you feeling now you made the step?" Charles ask. "Fucking nervous." Lando says and they all nods.

"I understand, it's not noting." Alex says. "I think I'm scared to hear the truth, but I need to hear it. But I'm really scared. I think I'm secretly hoping for a other answer then that I will get."

"Just know we are here for you." Max says and Lando nods. "I know, I really do."

"Lan we need to give a interview." Oscar says as he grabs Lando's arm for his attention. "Okay, be right back." Lando says and he walks to the front of the truck with Oscar.

"My stomach hurts and I'm not even the one who needs to talk." Alex says while he keeps his eyes on Lando.

"I'm scared what Daniel will say. I don't think he will come back." Charles says and he bits his lip. "I mean, Lando just said he hopes Daniel will take him back."

"I don't have a good feeling about it either." George says. "But Daniel really loved Lando. Lando was his whole world." Max says.

"Can't you talk with Daniel tonight? Just so we know what he will say to Lando?" Charles ask. "We can't do that Charlie." Max says.

"I know we can't but I can't handle this till tomorrow morning." Charles says. "We have to wait." Alex says.

"And prepare for the worst. Lando could go trough this for the second time. Now it can be official for him. He always had that little hope." George says and everyone nods.

They had to prepare for everything what could happen.

Lando didnt come back. He was yoking around with Oscar before Oscar had to get off the truck for a interview. Lando saw the mclaren camera and he acted like a big fan on Oscar and he chuckled when the camera went from him to Oscar. He looks around and he hears how the crowd went wild and he smiles. A few minutes later was Lando in a conversation with Carlos before they had to leave the truck.

~~~

The race was eventful.

Hadjar went off in the formation lap so Lando had to wait a little longer for the start.

When the start was finally there he went away quite good. He was still in front of Oscar and Max. He went into the first corner and the next one and he had a good control on the car. Oscar was struggling more and Max went past Oscar to second place. Lando was still p1 after a few corners.

"Yellow flag, Yellow flag. Doohan had a crash."

Lando did what he had to do and he discussed a few things what possible could happend. A few second later he got told that Carlos was off too. The safty car was in front of him and that was for a few laps before they start the race again. Lando went away good, but Max and Oscar followed him closely.

Oscar passes Max in lap 17 and from there Oscar was fast. He drove to Lando really quickly. Max went backwards and was at some point 15 seconds behind them.

After a few rounds Oscar was really pushing Lando to the limits. Lando really liked it and he knew how badly Oscar wants to win this race. Eventually he got told that Oscar had to hold his place since they had to pass some backmarkers. It was both cars from Haas. After that Oscar was 4 second behind Lando and they were free to race.

But around lap 34 Alonso crashes and the safty car was back on track. They had to go through the pitlane multiple times and both Haas pitted for new tires.

But Lando stayed on track. The rain would increase more at some point or they would go on slicks at some point. They had a discussion about it what they should do.

They went on the hard tired, but soon is started to rain a lot more. It was really wet and Lando really tries to keep it on track. Some cars pitted immediately but they went on for one more lap, but it was to wet.

In lap 44 he went off and when he looked in the mirror Oscar did exactly the same. He got back on track and he could continue, but Oscar was back on track but ended up in the grass.

Poor Oscar.

Lando looks in his mirror again and he saw Max.

"Is Oscar out?" Lando ask. "No, he could reverse it and he is om track again. Box box Lando."

He was glad Oscar could continue.

Lando boxed for new Inters but Max stayed outside like a lot more drivers.

"Shit, did we do the right thing?" Lando ask. "Rain will come more in a few minutes. Focus on that."

And it did. It started to rain harder and everyone had to box. Lando was back in p1. A few more drivers had a small crash like Lawson and Bortoleto and they were out of the race too. Lando was back behind the safety car and at some point the back markers had to overtake the safety car. A few laps later the race could continue for the last 17 laps. Max was really close but in the end Lando had the win!

"Well done Mate, well done. P1, great job." says Will.

"Ooph! Little bit of pressure. Well done boys. Beautifully handled. Excuted to the second. One second later and we were done. So well done everyone, congrats! Amazing way to start the year. Thank you so much."

Will then gives some instructions before he can park the car. He shuts everything off and he takes a few deep breaths.

He did it again!

He steps out af he smiles when Max comes to him.

"Well done." Max smiles. "Thank you, that was fun." Lando smiles. Max smiles and nods before he has to weight.

After all the celebrations he did and all the interviews Lando could take a shower before heading back to his hotelroom. There he put his stuff away before heading to George his room where he would have a film night with him and Alex.

And Lando was happy that they didn't start about Daniel, but about other things. They talked a bit about the race because all three of them had a good race. Then they started up a film and talked some more about random things.

For the first time in a few days Lando felt calm when he went to bed that night.

~~~

But when he woke up he was feeling stressed again. Daniel would be there soon.

He puts on some clothes and he brush his teeth and do his hair before sitting om the couch. In 30 minutes Daniel would be here. Lando is feeling really tense. He has no idea what he could expect and that makes him nervous.

Alex, George, Max and Charles all wrote him text to wish him the best luck and that they would be here for him.

Lando couldn't wish for better support. Yes, sometimes they are over protective but Lando knows why. But sometimes it's really annoying. Charles always says that Lando and Arthur are almost the same age and that is why he is so protective of Lando. It is really sweet and his mom was really happy when she heard that, but sometimes they go over the top.

But they will always be there for him and that's why Lando loves them so much. He knows that even when this conversation will not end well that he has the best people waiting for him to help him.

Lando looks up when there is a knock on the door. He takes a deep breath before standing up and he walks to the door. He opens it and a smiley Daniel is standing in front of him.

"Hey." He smiles and Lando gets a smile on his face. "Hello, come in."

Daniel walks inside and Lando close the door. "Is a hug okay?" Daniel ask and Lando nods and Daniel hugs him. Lando close his eyes while putting his arms around Daniel.

They still perfectly fit. It feels like Lando is finally home.

"Mmh, this is really nice." Daniel whispers and Lando holds him closer. "It is." he whispers and Daniel rubs his back before looking at him.

"Congratulations race winner. You are now standing first in the championship." Daniel says and Lando smiles.

"Thank you. It's only the first race, but yeah." "Does it look positive?" "Yes it does. The boys did a great job over the winter." "Good. You deserve this Bear." Daniel says while he sits down on the sofa. Lando follows him.

Bear, Lando really missed hearing his nickname coming out of Daniel's mouth.

"Thank you. I hope this season will be better then last year." "Maybe. There will be a few setbacks, but you have to go through them."

"I know and I hope I will do it better then last year." "You have grown because of last year. So use that." Daniel says and Lando nods.

"Did you watch something from f1 or nothing?" "No, nothing. I don't want to see anything." "I understand. How are you?" "I'm over it and I'm happy that I don't have to travel that much anymore. Like, I have so many free time and I really enjoy that. Just doing what I want to do and if that is a day of chilling and doing nothing then I will do that."

"That sounds really nice. Have you been on the farm a lot?" Lando ask and Daniel nods. "Loads. I'm really happy that I can go further in my life and not hold on to something that was my whole life you know." Daniel says and Lando nods.

"You always have to think about f1 for your planning." Lando says and Daniel nods. "I really like it that I look in my agenda and that I see there is nothing on there. I have of course a few meeting about my clothing and wine and all of that stuff, but not sim days or sponser things."

"Just time for you." Lando says and Daniels nods. "I found happiness again and I'm really enjoying what I'm doing now." Daniel says while Lando grabs two bottles of water.

"I understand. After so many years of f1." Lando says and Daniel nods. They both take a sip of water.

"And how are you?" Daniel ask and Lando looks at him.

"I don't know. It's a bit mixed feelings with everything. I have seen my downs in the end of last year with the races and the championship. Brazil was killing and I really struggled there. But I try to keep going just like aways. George and Alex are with me a lot and that fun. They really can make my day."

"I'm really glad to hear that. They love you so much. Your friendship is really special." Daniel says and Lando nods. "It is."

"And I'm struggling to let you go." Lando starts and he looks at Daniel who smiles fades away.

"I'm really trying because I know why you broke up with me, but I have my question and I think that's why I can't let you go."

"Lan." Daniel says softly.

"I'm sorry if I make you feel like shit now, but this is probably one of the few times I get to see you this year. That's why I asked if you could stay for this conversation."

"I hope you know it is nothing you did." Daniel starts and Lando nods. "I want to stay away from racing right now. It makes me feel like shit and I don't want that anymore. I want to enjoy my life and I know for sure that at some point I will love racing again. Just not in f1."

"Obviously. After what Horner and Helmut did."

"The most difficult thing is that you are part of that section of racing. You never made me feel unhappy or something, you cheered me up. But you will be away for racing and we will not be together most of the time. And when you are away for racing I have to keep an eye on the time everytime I want to see or speak to you. I need to know when and where you are racing and the times for that. I will still be busy with f1 and I don't want that." Daniel explains and he grabs Lando's hand.

"And that has nothing to do with you, because Lan I really really loved you." Daniel says and Lando feels like he had been hit in his stomach.

"Loved?" he whispers.

"I'm really trying to let you go and I still think I made the right decision."

"But I'm not only racing Daniel." Lando takes his hand back. "Yes I know that I'm away a lot but that doesn't mean I will not do my best for you. I will pack my stuff and live with you there in Perth if I have to. I will not talk about racing with you."

"You know you can't. Your days are related to f1 and that's what I don't want."

"But there is nothing I could do to make this work?" Lando ask and Daniel shakes his head and it's silent for a few seconds.

"I don't want to ask you that because I know that's not possible. You need to be in Europe and not with me in Perth. Those flights will break you up at some point. I don't want that."

"And what if I win the championship this year and retire? Then we can be together here back in Perth."

"No Lando, hear yourself. You have at least 10 more good years in you. I don't want you to give up your career for me."

"But I will have my goal and I can move on." Lando says and Daniel shakes his head. "Hear yourself Lan." Daniel says and Lando bits on his lip.

"It's not easy for me, I want you to know that. I have struggled with my decision because my love for you was never fake. I really really loved you. But I think it's better for us to be apart."

"Is there someone else?" Lando ask softly. He looks at Daniel who grabs both of his hands.

"No. My heart still belongs to you Lando. But I need to let you go so you can grow in your career. Sometimes love isn't enough to fix everything."

"But our love is."

"It's not Lan and you know that."

"You didn't even give us a chance." Lando says.

"I did. Back in 2023. And I really struggled with being apart. I knew there would still be a chance for me to be back in the sport. But now there is no chance. I don't want to go back."

"But we can make this work, I really believe in that." Lando says, but Daniel shakes his head.

"Your still so young Lan, there will be enough fishes in the sea for you. They all want your heart."

"But I want you and only you."

"But now it's time for you to let me go Lando." Daniel says and for the first time in this conversation a tear rolls down Lando's cheek.

He doesn't like this feeling. It's official, Daniel doesn't want him back. He really hates that feeling.

"I'm sorry." Lando says and his voice cracked at the sorry. "Can I give you a hug?" Daniel ask and Lando nods. And before he knows it he's back in Daniel is arms.

Lando his head lays on Daniels shoulder and more tears are rolling down his cheek. But right now he wasn't the only one anymore, because a tear from Daniel fell on his hand.

"I don't want us to break up." Lando sobs and he holds Daniel closer. "It's for the better." Daniel says while he place his chin on top of Lando's head.

"But I love you Lando and I have loved you so much. These last few years have been incredible and I hope you still wants to see me but then as a friend."

"I still want to see you. Your my best friend Daniel." Lando sobs and Daniel rubs his shoulder. "We will see eacother back in Monaco, I promise." Daniel says and Lando looks at him.

"You really promise?" Lando ask and Daniel nods. And when I'm there I will text you and we will meet up. We can go for a coffee or maybe a wine. But I will call or text you."

"I don't know how to let you go Daniel." "Time, it needs time. I need time too." Daniel says before whipping away Lando's tears. "It's special what we have, but I think this is the best for us." Daniel says and Lando sobs and hugs him again.

"I really hope you will find love again Danny. I hope someone can make you really happy."

"Thank you. And I really think you will meet someone so sweet for you. He will do the world for you. There is someone over there who is waiting, I know for sure. You deserve all the love." Daniel says while he press Lando close to him for one last time before they look at each other again.

Daniel smiles sadly and he wipes away some tears on Lando's cheek before placing a kiss on Lando's forhead.

"I really love you and I always will. You have a special place in my heart Lando Norris. And this doesn't mean we will never see each other again, because we will. You will get sick of me one day." Daniels says and Lando chuckles softly.

"I love you too Daniel."

~~~

It was a heavy day and Lando didn't even finish the media evenent for the sponser. He went back to his hotel 2 hours later and he cried a lot. He even fell asleep at one point.

Around 4 o'clock he arrived at the airport and he walks towards Max his jet. Max was walking out of the jet and his eyes fell on Lando. He walks down the stairs and his face stood worried.

"Hey." Max says softly and Lando dropped all his bags and he hugs Max before he started crying.

"Oh Lando." Max says softly and he holds the boy close. "It's over." Lando sobs and he press his face into Max his neck. "I'm so sorry." Max whispers and he rocks them slowly from left to right.

"We are here for you. It will be difficult but your not alone." Max says and he rubs his back.

"Thank you." Lando sobs and they stayed like this for a few minutes before Lando let him go.

"Sorry." He says before whipping away his years. "You don't have to say sorry. You never have too." Max says and he place his hand on Lando's arm.

"It's just a lot. We had a really good chat but... Yeah." "I understand what you mean. It's not an easy conversation." Max says and Lando shakes his head.

"Gentleman I want to ask you both to step inside the jet so we can take off."

"Yeah, we will. Thank you." Max says and he grab Lando's backs. They step inside and walks to the room where the other boys are. Max puts away his bags while Alex stands up and hugs Lando.

"We will be here for you." Alex says and Lando close his eyes and hugs him too.

It was the only thing he had to hear right now. He is in good hands.

They knew enough by Lando's face, he didn't have to tell them.

They had to sit down since they will take off. George sits down on the other chair so Lando could sit next to Alex. When they were able to loosen the straps Alex takes Lando in his arms. Lando place his head on Alex his chest and he close his eyes. Alex plays with his hair while it stays silent in the room. At some point Lando felt his tears rolling down his cheeks. He didn't try to hold them he just let them go. He isn't sobbing or anything but the tears are rolling down his cheek.

A blanket is placed around him and Lando brings it closer. At some point the other boys started a conversation and Lando listen to them and it makes him feel calmer. He even fell asleep at some point.

It was a long flight but finally they landed in Monaco. They all went to Alex and George their home and they would have a sleepover there.

When they arrive Charles takes Lando to the couch where they cuddle for a long time. Max, George and Alex were busy placing all the mattresses in the living room.

Charles plays with Lando's hair while he was laying with his head on Charles his chest. He even felt a little kiss on his head at some points in the evening.

When everything was ready George came back with five mugs of hot chocolate. They all sit down with their hot chocolate and Lando looks at them.

"We had a really good conversation. We were both very honest and even tho I'm really upset right now I think I have made the right decision to talk to him. We will not continue with our relationship but we will stay friends. We will talk and call and see each other. Daniel wants to be more in Monaco and he will text or call me so we can meet up."

"You are really strong Lando. I know it's not easy, but maybe you needed this conversation to move om from him." George says and Lando nods.

"I will always love him and he said the same. It is not nothing we had, it was really special and I know that I will always love him. He has a very special place in my heart."

"What you both had was really beautiful and even now you can see it. You both want to stay friends and you both want to still see each other. Not a lot of people can say that you know." Max says and Lando nods before taking a sip of his hot chocolate.

"This is exactly what I needed right now." He says and George smiles.

"Hot chocolate is the best medicine for a heartbreak."

"It feels stupid to be again in this place." Lando says honest. "It's not. You are now processing everything. You probably can now find the peace to heal from this break up. It will take a long time, but I'm pretty sure everything will be okay in the end." Alex says and Lando place his head on his shoulder.

"I want to thank you all for being here with me. It was a exhausting weekend and you are still there for me. So thank you and I really mean it." Lando says and everyone smiles.

"You mean a lot to us Lan. And you would do the same thing for us." Charles says and Lando nods. "I would. I will do everything for all of you."

"And that's the most important at a friendship. Lovers can come and go but friendship stays." Alex says and Lando smiles and looks at him.

"It really does."