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Chapter Text

BREAKING NEWS: Red Bull Shakes Up Driver Line-Up Post Silverstone Once Again

A bombshell announcement dropped this morning from Milton Keynes. Following a disastrous British Grand Prix at Silverstone last weekend, Red Bull Racing has confirmed the immediate departure of Yuki Tsunoda from his seat. While speculation has been rife for weeks regarding Tsunoda's future, the identity of his replacement has brought a true shift for motorsport.

Red Bull has officialy announced that the reigning Formula 2 Champion, Aurora Leclerc, will step up to partner Max Verstappen for the remainder of the season.

Aurora is younger sister of Ferrari's star driver, Charles Leclerc, which leaves us in doubt about upcoming sibling rivalry in the paddock.

No further statements have been made from the new teammates.

Charles was pissed off. Majorly. He paced the living room like a caged animal, his whole family watching and trying to suppress their laughter.

''And she accepted! Red Bull! Of all teams!''

Arthur finally broke into a fit of laughter, clutching his stomach. ''Dude, what did you expect? Her to ask permission? It's Rori!''

''It's not fair!'' Charles whined, sounding like a little child, pouting slightly.

Just then, Aurora strolled hrough the open door, a smirk playing on her lips as she took in his dramatic display.

''Oh, brother dearest, I simply don't want to get your depression by coming to Ferrari. And really, it's a dream team. Two reigning world champs.''

Charles's mouth opened and closed like a fish. No words came out.

She leaned in, kissed his cheek softly, ruffled his hair, and walked off to her room to grab the last left suitcase.

''Did she just..baby me?'' Charles mumbled, and the whole family laughed again.

A couple of streets away, Max was pacing his living room, much like Charles, his phone clutched in his hand. He was practically yelling at Christian.

''You brough a child to be my teammate? Really? And a Leclerc, nonetheless!''

''Take it easy Max. You two already know each other, and Aurora is an amazing driver. Harsh driving style, dare I say, same as yours. Play nice.''

And with that, he hung up, making Max groan again.

Rain was pouring in Milton Keynes when her car pulled up. She took a deep breath as she stepped out. This wasn't just another F1 team. This was Max's team. The team of the rival her brother despised, and the man who, for years, had been her most buried and cherished secret, even since they were barely tall enough to see over the steering wheels of their karts. One of the biggest reasons, why she even took the deal in the first place.

She was met by a smiling PR officer who led her through the long halls and left her before the big door of a large meeting room. Christian and Helmut were already there, smiling at her as she stepped inside, but her gaze locked on the seated form, his back turned to her, not even bothering to turn around. Max.

She took a seat across from him and he finally lifted his head, his blue eyes meeting hers.

''Aurora, welcome. We hope you've traveled well.'' Christian said, breaking the awkward silence that has settled between the two.

''Yes, thank you very much. Happy to be here.'' Her voice came out steady, even though her hand trembled in her lap.

''Right,'' Christian began, his hands resting on the table. ''I think we can all agree this has been a...rapid development. But we believe it's the right one for the team, moving forward after this weekend. Aurora, your performance in F2 has been exceptional. Your race craft, precise style - it aligns perfectly with our philosophy. We're confident you can adapt quickly.''

''I hope so too. That's why I'm here.'' Helmut nodded only, pleased with her answer.

Max kept quiet.

''Excellent. We'll finalise the simulator session this afternoon, and then we'll have a press release prepared for later this week. You'll both be available for a brief photo call. We have some documents to finalise, but Max, perhaps you can give Aurora a brief overview of the fabric?''

Max gave a curt nod. ''Sure.''

As the two men exited the room, the atmosphere shifted instantly. Aurora watched Max, waiting. He didn't move from his chair, just stared at her across the table, storms raging in his eyes.

''So, little Leclerc. You actually took it.''

Aurora met his gaze, refusing to back down. ''It's Red Bull, Max. An F1 seat. What was I supposed to do?''

He let out a short laugh. ''Right. The big dream. Just like you always used to say.''

The words brought instant memories up, slicing through her composure. The big dream. It was never just about racing; it was about racing with him. About finally being on his level, in his world, worthy of his attention. His love.

''I said a lot of things back then. You never seemed to care about any of them, though.''

''What do you mean?'' he frowned in confusion.

I mean that I loved you since I was a little girl, you imbecile. She wanted to scream out, to finally let that raw truth out, but she couldn't. Not here. Not now. Not ever, if she could help it. 

''It doesn't matter. It wouldn't change anything, anyways.''

He let out a sigh and stood up, leaving her behind with her thoughts.

Spa, Belgium

From the moment the lights went out, Aurora Leclerc drove like a woman possessed. She managed to out-qualify Max, him landing only P9, with Oscar Piastri on pole, sharing the front row with her as she took her first ever P2 in Formula One. Her sheer talent and little bit of good luck on her side, landed her in front of Oscar at a crucial moment, while Max was left with a DNF after mechanical issue. She won. Her first ever Grand Prix win, and at his home race, no less. She was glowing. 

Oscar, Lando and Charles were the first to rush over and hug her, congratulating her on her maiden win. Others followed shortly, before she was pulled away for the rest of the celebrations. The only person who stayed in the garage, was Max. And he was furious. First Lando last year, now her. His championship hopes went into the grave, as he dropped to 4th place in standings. It was now definitely over.

When she finally stepped back into the garage, drenched in champagne and smiling, she found him already waiting, changed in white polo and his skinny jeans, looking scarily calm.

''Max,'' she began, her voice softer than it had been the whole weekend towards anyone else. ''I'm sorry about your race. That's rough.''

He stepped closer to her, his voice dropping low. She gulped. ''Sorry? You think I care about your pathetic apology, Leclerc? You think I care about your win?'' 

She shook her head. ''It was sincere. And it's good, Max. The car is good, we're finally getting somewhere as a team.''

''Oh, so my car breaks, and suddenly you're the hero. What, did Christian give you some special modes for your little debut, just to prove a point?''

''How dare you? I drove my heart out there! I earned that win! You DNF'd because your car broke, not because I somehow cheated or because I'm not good enough.''

''You're a rookie! In my team! This is my championship, Aurora. And you're nothing but the third replacement this year. God knows what you did to get this seat.''

Her eyes widened in shock.

''That's low, Max. Even for you. You know damn well what my dad sacrificed to get me into that kart. You know damn well everything that I lost. Out of all people, I thought you would be one to understand. I was obviously wrong.''

His eyes softened just for a second. He opened his mouth, to say something, anything, but no sound came out. 

Before either of them could utter another word, Christian's voice boomed through the garage.

''Alright, that's enough!''

Both of them flinched, turning their heads to see Christian striding towards them, looking dissappointed.

''What in God's name is going on here? This is not what we do. We win as a team, we lose as a team. We certainly don't stand in the fucking garage, twenty minutes after race, tearing each other apart.''

Max mumbled a soft ''She started it'' making her flip off again.

''Oh, for heaven's sake, Max! He's just furious I won! And he's blaming me for his DNF!''

''I am not blaming you for my DNF! I'm mad because this is becoming a circus! My championship is gone and you're here acting like you're owed something!''

''Enough! Both of you.'' Christian stepped between them. ''I don't care whose fault it is. What I care about is the damage this kind of behaviour does to the team. Aurora, congratulations on an exceptional win. Max, I understand your frustration. But this is completely unacceptable. Both of you. You are teammates. You will act like it. Do you understand?''

Aurora nodded stiffly, while Max clenched his jaw. ''Yeah, understood.''

Christian sighed, running a hand over his face. ''Good. Now, Aurora, PR is waiting for you. Get changed. Max, you have debrief. Get to it. We will revisit this, both of you, first thing tomorrow morning. Separately. Is that clear?''

They both mumbled their agreements, turning away from each other and walking away in different directions.

Christian shaked his head. ''Children. Both of them.''

After endless pictures, interviews and debrief, she finally headed back to the hotel. All she wanted was a hot shower and to call her family.

As she stepped inside the hotel, the first thing she saw was Max in the lobby, talking rapidly to someone on the phone, his whole posture stiff.

She could probably just go ahead, he wouldn't even notice her walking by. But some part of her, that tiny stupid part that loved the damn man more than anything, didn't let her. Damn her character. She tightened her grip on her bag and walked straight towards him.

He turned around as if sensing her presence, before muttering a quick ''I'll call you back'' and hanging up.

''Leclerc.'' he bit out, his voice low. She scoffed. Never Aurora. Always just the last name.

''Verstappen. Enjoying this fine evening?''

He scoffed. ''You really think you're funny, don't you? Don't push it, Aurora.''

He said her name. 

She froze. For the first time in years, her name rolled off his tongue and she was done.

She didn't even realise she was staring, lost in the moment of that single word, until his voice broke her out of the trance.

''Cat got your tongue?''

She took a clumsy step back, a stupid flush creeping up her neck. Her voice came out as a whisper. ''I..I have to. Good night.''

Max had no idea of the devastation he'd just wreaked with single word.

She leaned against the room's door, safely locked. She had just won her first Formula 1 race, achieved a lifelong dream, yet all she could think about was the way her stomach flipped when he'd said her name. She hated herself for it. Hated the vulnerability that still bloomed so easily for him, no matter how much she tried to bury it. 

Damn you, Max.

Chapter Text

There were tons of unanswered messages, all of them from friends and family, congratulating her on her win. But one that managed to stand out. It was from a former driver, an Australian with a charming smile, whom she'd never had a chance to meet. And he was now following her on Insta?

''Oh... My... God.''

She almost fell out of the bed when she read his message, a blush creeping up her pale skin.

Daniel Ricciardo (@danielricciardo) messaged you:

''Congrats on the maiden victory, Aurora! You gave McLaren a run for their money! Shame I never got to meet you, you're a hell of a driver!''

Aurora kept staring at the screen. Daniel. The Honey Badger himself. Complimenting her. Her mind raced. What did you even say to someone like Daniel? And why was her heart doing that stupid little flutter? This was definitely not what she had in plan when she thought about getting over Max. Fuck, he was his former teammate. 

She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. She couldn't just leave him on read. That would be rude. And besides, it was Daniel. One of the most likeable guys in the planet. 

''Hey Daniel! Thank you so much! Really appreciate it coming from you. Hopefully, we get to meet properly sometime soon!''

Just as she dropped her phone on the pillow, it buzzed again, this time with a video call from Charles. She smiled. Out of the whole family, she and Charles bickered the most, and loved each other the most.

''Took you long enough to answer, champion!'' Charles's face filled the screen, grinning widely. ''Slept good after last night?''

''Hey Char. Yeah, like a baby. It's been insane since yesterday.''

''Insane good!'' Charles chuckled. ''Seriously Rori, I almost cried on the radio when I heard you won. You were incredible. Max must be absolutely fuming.'' his grin widened, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes.

''He is.'' she muttered, their interaction crossing her mind. ''We, uh, had a bit of a moment in the garage.''

Charles's amusement faded, replaced by concern. ''What happened? Did he say anything to you? I swear, if he tried anything-''

''Non, nothing like that. Just..typical Max. Annoyed about his DNF, annoyed I won. Accusations, the usual.'' She carefully avoided the ''third replacement'' comment and ''what did you do to get this seat'' jab. And, of course, the part where she almost confessed her love for him. And the message from Daniel. Yeah, best keep that part out.

''Well, good. He needs to get over himself. You earned that, Rori. Don't let him get into your head.''

''I won't,'' she promised, even though it sounded fake as hell. Another message from Daniel rolled in, and she couldn't hold back the small smile that broke out.

''So,what's got you grinning like that? Someone else congratulating you? Lando shooting his shot??''

''No, no Lando. Just a...surprising message, that's all.''

Charles's eyes narrowed. ''Spill.''

Aurora chewed on her lip for a second, then sighed, a small giggle escaping her. ''Okay, okay. But don't you dare tell anyone.''

''My lips are sealed.'' Charles promised, making a zipping motion across his mouth.

''It's from...Daniel Ricciardo.'' she mumbled quickly.

Charles blinked. Once. Twice. Then his jaw dropped. ''No way. Are you serious? What did he say?''

''Just congratulations on the win, called me a ''hell of a driver''. And,uh, said he hopes we meet properly soon.''

Charles let out a low whistle. ''Well, well, well, little sister. You're moving up in the world! From racing Verstappen to getting DMs from Ricciardo. Not bad for a rookie.'' He winked. ''He's always been one of the good guys in the paddock. He is little bit old for you though, but I approve.''

''Charles! It's nothing like that, God!'' Aurora blushed furiously, mortified and flustered all at once.

Charles just laughed, grin spreading across his face. ''Hey, I'm just saying! He is handsome, in an older kind of way.''

''Oh my God, stoppp,'' Aurora groaned, burying her face in her hands

''Alright, alright, I'll stop. But seriously, Rori, you were amazing yesterday. And about Max..don't let him get to you. He's furious, yes, but that's just his ego talking. You broke him yesterday. You earned that seat. We know how.''

''I know. It just..coming from him. It stings.''

''Because you wanted his respect. He achieved a lot, you looked up to him, it's normal. But you don't need his approval Rori. You never did. They need you more than you need them.''

After another round of teasing, they ended the call. 

Time to get up. Debrief is waiting.

Christian and her PR officer were already seated at the table when Aurora came in. She sat across from them, feeling less like a Grand Prix winner and more like a child about to be scolded.

''Good morning, Aurora.'' Christian began, his tone serious.

''Good morning. I want to apologise for my part in the garage yesterday. Emotions were running high.'' She offered the practised apology first, knowing it was expected.

Christian nodded. ''Max has expressed his frustrations. His DNF was a hard blow to his championship battle and his ego. He often views his teammates as his direct competitors. However, his choice of words yesterday was unacceptable. We have adressed that with him, separately. We have no doubts about your talent or why you are here, Aurora. Your win at Spa was exceptional. However, this cannot happen again. Every point matters to the team. Every decision matters. Your relationship with Max is crucial. He is our lead driver, and you, just like whole team, have to support him when it comes to this year's battle.''

The words clung to her like a second skin. It was the harsh reality of her position. No matter her win, she was the new number two. Just like Yuki, Liam, even Daniel before her.

''I understand. My priority is to deliver results. If I have to assist Max this season, I will. But just to be clear, I won't do the same next year. Next year is a fair battle, from beginning to the end.''

Christian nodded, seeming satisfied. 

''Good. We expect unity and professionalism from both of you moving forward. The media will be watching. Teams will be watching. Let your results speak, not your temper.''

She simply nodded, said her goodbyes and left. The fight was far from over, but she'd behave. For now. Only performance mattered.

Monaco

The Spa weekend was finally over, but the bitter taste lingered in Max's mouth. After his long talk with Christian and Helmut he'd flown straight to Monaco. They'd grilled him on his temper, reminded him how important Aurora was for him, that she will help him out.

He was sprawled on his sofa, scrolling through his phone, when Daniel's name flashed across the screen. Max smiled. Daniel rarely called these days. 

''Hey mate'' he answered quickly.

''Maxieee! How's it going, mate? Rough one at Spa, huh?'' Daniel's voice boomed through the speaker, cheerful as always.

''Yeah..tough luck. Fucking hell.''

''Ah, don't worry about it. You'll bounce back, you always do.'' Daniel said easily, then his tone shifted to something close to curiosity. ''But mate, I gotta ask...what about your new teammate? Aurora Leclerc, huh? You gotta admit, that was an insane drive.''

Max stiffened, his grip on the phone tightening. ''She got lucky,'' he murmured, tone sharp. ''My car had issues. If I'd been in the race, it would've been different.''

Daniel chuckled. ''Yeah, I believe it. But you've gotta admit, the kid's got pace. Pretty cool, eh? She sent me a nice message back, too. Seems nice.''

Nice. Message. The word echoed in Max's head, followed by the image of her face in the hotel lobby, flushed and flustered before she ran away. Why the fuck did Daniel sound so interested?

''She's a rookie, Daniel. Has a lot to learn. Still makes mistakes. Doesn't matter who she is, or what her name is.''

''Alright, alright, calm down, champ'' Daniel laughed, sensing the tension. ''Just curious, that's all. She's got a big name to carry, too. Lot of presure on her. Anyway, do you by chance know if she's seeing someone?''

What the fuck? 

Max froze for a second. Was Daniel serious?

''How the fuck would I know mate? We're teammates, not besties. Besides, aren't you way too old for her?''

''Ouchh, Maxiee!'' he laughed. ''Who knows, maybe the girly likes some older men.''

Before Max managed to reply, Daniel laughed again. ''Anyways, talk soon mate. Gotta run. Bye!'' And the line went off.

Max stepped out onto the balcony, letting out a frustrated sigh. Why would he care anyways? She could date Daniel. But Daniel was his best mate. And he hated her. He hated her name, hated her win, hated the way she was suddenly thrust into his team, his championship. But the thought of someone else, anyone else, looking at her that way, asking about her in that way...

Max ran a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands. This was insane. He couldn't be jealous. No, he was just still mad. He was annoyed. Both of them could do whatever the hell they wanted.

The Hungaroring, Qualifying Day

New teammates seemed..polite. Distant nods, forced smiles, no words exchanged. But on the track, they were fierce. As Q3's final laps came in, Max was already happy with his provisional pole. Then, as the chequered flag waved, Aurora crossed the line. 

The timing screens flashed.

AURORA LECLERC - P1

MAX VERSTAPPEN -P2

Max spoke on the radio. ''So?''

''Up, P1 for Aurora, Max. She's..four hundredths quicker.'' GP spoke calmly with a hint of surprise in his voice.

Max slammed his hand against his steering wheel. ''Fuck!''

Aurora, on the other hand, couldn't stop smiling. First pole. She'd told them she would fight.

Later, walking back to the parking lot, her phone buzzed. She smiled when she saw Daniel's name.

''Yeeess girl! That was a bloody phenomenal lap!!! Absolutely smashed it!!''

Aurora couldn't help but grin. Maybe this was a sign, something she needed to help her get over the storm that was Max Verstappen.

Race Day

Max saw him first. Daniel, casual in his own merch, a wide, genuine smile on his face, was making his way through the corwd, shaking hands and cracking jokes. Why was Daniel here?

Before he could get to him, he saw him stop in front of Aurora, catching her off guard. He watched as she smiled at him, extending her hand, his bigger hand gripping hers gently. He gripped the water bottle in his hand. It was ridiculous. He shouldn't care. He didn't care.

Daniel leaned in close, his voice a low, teasing murmur.

''If you win this, promise me we'll go out to celebrate in private.''

She blushed, her eyes scanning his form - the broad shoulders under his casual shirt, his black shorts doing nothing to hide his sinful tattoos.

''Promise.'' 

Max saw the blush. The smile. He saw the way her eyes lingered on Daniel, the way he leaned in with that casual charm of his. It tasted bitter.

Then, he left her side and came over to him.

''Christian. Maxieee! Good to see you both.''

Max forced a smile. ''Daniel.''

''Missed the races way too much, figured should come and see one. Anyway, I'll be watching from your garage. Good luck mate!'' Daniel gave him playful punch on the shoulder before he moved away.

The world exploaded into motion. Aurora got a good start, but Max was fueled by anger. They barreled into Turn 1 side-by-side, he squeezed her to the maximum and got past her with a borderline legal move. She matched his pace for the rest of the race, but every attempt at overtake she made, put her back to her place. Max was smart and angry and he crossed the line in P1, with 3 seconds lead.

Still, she was happy with her P2.

When she finally found herself back in the hotel, just wanting to go to sleep after an exhausting day, her phone buzzed. 

''Congrats again on P2! Still up for that drink? My treat, away from the cameras.''

Maybe this was what she needed. She typed back quickly. 

''Sounds great, Daniel. Pick me up in an hour?''

An hour later, dressed in a simple, elegant dark dress, she was walking to the elevator when she collided with someone stepping out. She looked up and came face to face with Max. His shirt was wrinkled, and his hair was disheveled; he was obviously drunk already, his eyes a little unfocused but still sharp. 

She stepped back. ''Watch where you're going! You almost tripped me over!''

She huffed, brushing her dress straight and attempting to walk past him. But before she could, she felt an arm close around her waist, bumping her into the wall. She let out a whimper, her eyes wide, not believing what was happening.

''Daniel huh? The appeal of someone older got to you? Want him to touch you, don't you?'' Max's body was already planted against hers, his hand brushing against her side. ''You want to be touched by someone...experienced. I saw the way you looked at him today. You used to look the same at me.'' And with that, he moved away, his steps slow and unsteady as he left the hall.

It took a minute for her to compose herself, before she finally stepped in the elevator, making her way to the lobby and awaiting Daniel. When he saw he approach, he smiled.

''Aurora, beautiful as ever. Ready?'' 

She took his awaiting hand. ''Ready.''

They settled into a secluded booth, sharing a bottle of red wine.

''Seriously, Aurora, you were amazing today. Don't let P2 get to you head.''

Aurora felt her cheeks warm under his genuine praise. ''Thanks, Daniel,'' she murmured, taking a sip of her wine. ''It felt good. This whole thing feels good.''

He was a simple guy, Daniel. She felt at ease, telling him about her early karting days, the struggles, her dad. Daniel listened intently, his head titled, adding something here and there.

As the evening went, so did the wine glasses, making the conversation more easy and their laughter more frequent. Daniel moved subtly closer to her, his knee occasionally brushing hers under the table. His hand would sometimes lightly graze her arm, sending a soft shiver through her. She found herself captivated by his easy charm. After Max's raw agression, Daniel's presence was like a soothing balm.

''You know..it's rare to meet someone in this world who's still genuinely in love with driving. You're still so young, yet you got that.''

''I'm not that young.'' 

''Oh, you sweet girl,'' her breath hitched as she felt his thumb gently graze her lip. ''So innocent and uncorrupted by this shitty world. You are still young, believe me.''

''And you're not?'' she didn't even know where did the confidence come from. Must be the wine, yeah. ''Are you corrupted, Daniel?''

His thumb moved to her jaw. ''Oh, honey, you have no idea the things this world can do to a man. But I try to keep the good bits, you know? Like this.''

His gaze dropped to her mouth and he leaned closer, and just as she closed her eyes waiting for the moment, he pulled away.

''You're a dangerous one, Aurora Leclerc.Young and devastating. You're going to break a lot of hearts in this paddock.''

''What if I don't want others' hearts?''

Daniel's breath hitched. His eyes darkened, a raw hungry flicker in them as he registered the full weight of her question. He didn't pull away this time. Instead, his hand tightened gently on her jaw as he leaned in again, his scent filling her senses. ''Then maybe, you just want mine.'' And just like that, he pulled her in, his lips claiming hers as she let out a soft whimper.

Aurora's hands found their way to his hair, pulling and tugging making him moan in her mouth.

All thoughts of Max, gone.

Chapter Text

Ride back to the hotel was comfortable. Mostly silent, yes, with her hand in his, ocassional smiles and jokes. She felt at ease. Something she haven't felt in a long time.

''You know, I'd love to take you out again soon. I had a really nice time with you, Ror.''

She smiled at him, squeezing his hand gently. ''Me too. Thank you, Daniel. I really needed it.''

''Soo...when can I see you again?''

Aurora's smile widened. ''That depends. How many races are you planning to visit?''

He chuckled. ''If it means a date every race weekend, then every single one.''

The car pulled to a stop outside the hotel. He turned fully to her, his hand still holding hers. He leaned in, his lips finding hers in a short, sweet kiss. ''Goodnight, Ror.''

''Goodnight, Daniel.'' she whispered.

As she waited for the elevator, she couldn't help but think of all the differences between the two men.

One, a sun. Daniel. Always smiling, radiating a warmth that pulled people in. His jokes, his cheeky comments. He made her feel seen, understood and at ease. With him, she could forget who she had to be and the expectations of the world breathing behind her neck.

Other, a storm. Max. Powerful, ambitious, taking everything in its way, not asking permission. He was destructive when he wanted to be, just like he was last night. He commanded attention, dominated space, and left an impact. Being near him, was like standing on a edge of a cliff, beging him not to let go. 

And yet, it was the storm that didn't leave her dreams. Despite Daniel's comforting warmth, despite the ease that had settled her soul for the evening, it was Max's cold eyes, his furious words, his body close to hers that hunted her in her dreams, through the whole night. 

Zandvoort

Arrival was marked by overwhelming orange. The Orange Army, Max's devoted legions of fans, swarmed every corner. Flags waved from every side, cheers could be heard whenever he was seen. It was Max's territory, his playground, and this weekend, she was the one left out by team. 

He didn't speak to her since that night. A polite nod was the most she got from him, yet the tension between them could be cut with a knife. 

Daniel had followed her to Zandvoort, keeping true to his promise, and she found refuge in it.

Yet, the little devil on her shoulder kept nagging her, whispering about confronting the Dutchman.

It was after the Qualifing that she finally snapped. He smirked at her as he passed her, claiming an amazing over-the-top P1, with her only managing P10 after running wide in the last two corners. The crowd erupted into cheers for the home hero.

He said nothing as he made a bee-line for his driver's room. She followed.

He didn't turn around when she walked in. With his back turned to her, he spoke briefly. ''What do you want, little Leclerc?''

What did she want? She stood there, the door closed behind her, asking herself the same question. 

''How about you not treating me like dirt after every goddamn session?''

That made him finally turn around, his eyes cold as ever. ''Treat you like dirt? Don't make me laugh. You ran wide, Leclerc. P10. That's on you, not me.''

''It's not about the lap, Max, and you know it!'' Her voice rose. ''It's about this.'' She gestured between them. ''Since Budapest, you haven't said a word to me that wasn't strictly necessary. You just glare and smirk. What is your problem?''

His jaw clenched. ''My problem? I don't have a problem. But what about you?'' He stepped closer to her. ''Spending your nights out, laughing it up, acting all innocent. Is that your primary task? Screwing ex-drivers?''

The words hit low.

''What I do in my own time is none of your business. And Daniel is nothing like that. He is a gentleman, decent. Unlike some.''

She decided to leave it at that. To leave him, and this damn room she made a mistake walking into, and to go find Daniel.

But Max was having none of it. Just as she was about to open the door, he slammed it shut, his arms caging her in between. His face was inches from hers, both of them panting. 

''Don't you dare, compare me to him. Or anyone.''

''Or what?! What the fuck are you going to do about it?''

For a short moment, she thought that he would kiss her. Hell, she hoped for it. Yet, Max pulled away a second later, turning his back to her, his hands clenched at his sides.

"Leave."

She stood still, shaken, her brain not quite catching up with his words.

"Aurora. Leave. Please."

But she was already way too deep in to leave now. The words, once spoken, couldn't be unsaid, and the burning need for answers, for him to see, was too strong to ignore.

"No."

That made him turn around to face her, this time from a safe distance.

"Leave, before I do something we will both regret."

"What if I won't regret it?" she knew that she was gambling with his patience right now, pushing him to a brink he might not recover from, but she wasn't about to give up. Not now when she finally found some courage for it.

"You have no idea what you're asking for." It came out as a warning.

"Oh I had an idea for years now, Max. You are the one who never noticed shit.''

"What do you mean?"

"I mean-God-how can't you see it?! I never hated you, Max! Never. Matter of fact, I..."

"You what?"

"Forget it. Just drop it."

''No, I won't drop it. You stormed in here, yelled at me, talked about fucking years, and now you don't want to finish it? You will tell me what's going on. Now.''

She took a deep breath and before he managed to open his mouth again, Aurora closed the distance between them and kissed him. Max froze, eyes wide, hands still.

It was nothing like Daniel, she knew it the moment their lips crashed. It was raw. Real and full of everything she didn't dare say out loud all these years. She pulled back, panting softly looking at his flustered face and wide eyes. He seemed frozen.

''Now you know.''

She had done it. She had finally laid bare the secret that had weighed on her for years.

Still, Max didn't move. He just kept staring at her, his lips slightly parted. God, now she will never forget the taste of them.

''Max?'' she whispered, unsure of what to do next. She reached out with a hesitant hand and he flinched, taking a jerky step back. He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out.

She took it as her cue to leave. He obviously didn't want it. Didn't want her. What was she even hoping for?

She didn't bother with finding Daniel. She needed to be alone.

She ordered room service, trying to distract herself with some movie on Netflix, but to no avail. Cold shower it was then. 

Just as she stepped out, wrapping towel around her, there was knock at the door. Great. Atleast the food is here.

Opening the door seemed to be a mistake. Max. Max, in a black plain hoodie pulled low, his blue eyes gazing underneath the cap.

''Max.'' she breathed, her voice trembling.

He took her form in, before speaking softly. ''We need to talk. Now.''

She hesitated for a second, before she stood aside, motioning for him to come inside. He sat beside the big glass window, hands still tucked in his hoodie. She clutched her towel tighter.

''So, what was that about? You kissed me. You left. Now I'm here. Explain.''

''What do you want me to say, Max? To apologise? Say it was a mistake? That I regretted it the second I walked out of that room?''

''Did you?''

She met his eyes. ''No. No, I didn't regret it.''

''Then explain it.''

She sighed, sitting on edge of the bed. ''I told you. I never hated you. Even when you were being the biggest asshole on the planet. Even when you pushed me, when you challenged me, when you made my life a living hell on the track. I respected you. I learned from it. And..''

He stood up, closing the distance between them, his hand coming up to cup her jaw, making her look at him. ''And what, Aurora?''

Her breath hitched.

''And..I've been fascinated by you since I first saw you. Terrified of you, yes, but also..drawn. Every time we clashed, every time you pushed me, it was never hatred, Max. It was just..frustration. Because you never saw it. You just saw the rival. Sister of an enemy. I..I think I've always wanted you to see me. And what I felt. Even if it was messy.''

He cupped her face with both hands, eyes searching hers as he smiled and she thought, maybe it wasn't that bad. She got it off her chest and Max wasn't running away so..

But then he smirked. His eyes glinted evilly, as he pulled her closer, so that his lips landed on her ear. She froze. 

''Oh you poor thing. Wanna know what I see? I see a shy, little girl trying to admit her crush on me. And honestly, little Leclerc? It's pathetic.''

She pulled back, utterly shocked, tears already pooling in her eyes. He let her, stepping back effortlessly.

''I have to admit though, you're brave. Way more than your brother. But come on. Did you really think I'd kiss you back? Or that I came here to confess my undying love for you? Just learn it already, Aurora. You may be good enough for Daniel, but you'll never be good enough for me.''

She didn't know when she fell down on her knees nor when did he leave. All she knew was that her heart felt stabbed and thrown out of the window, like a piece of trash. 

She stayed there, curled on the plush carpet, tears streaming down her face.

Night came and went, unlike sleep. When the alarm finally blared, she was already awake. Every muscle of her body protested, every fiber of her being screamed to pull the covers over her head and disappear.

Paddock today, will be her personal hell.

She saw him briefly, before he dissappeared into his garage. He didn't look her way. He didn't need to. He was loud and clear last night.

Daniel, however, found her. ''Ror? You alright? You look a bit tired.'' He was so gentle that she wanted to scream.

She managed a strained smile. ''Long night, don't worry about it.'' She was humiliated enough. Getting into the car was a relief. But her focus was off. 

She ended the race where she started it, just like Max.

The media pen passed in a blur. The debrief was hell. 

So, when she finally came back to her hotel room, the fasace she managed to keep on the whole day, cracked and fell. She broke down,clutching her stomach tightly. The utter despair of being so unseen by the one person who mattered the most, pushed her over the edge. A desperate, familiar impulse, one she had buried deep and sworn off after the grief of Jules' death. Her hands found the small razor, packed in her cosmetic bag.

The cold sting brought a familiar, perverse sense of control. She watched the thin, crimson lines appear on her skin.

She cleaned the cuts, bandaged them hastily, her movements stiff and mechanical. She felt terrible. She swore to Charles she'd never do it again. And now, the only man she ever loved, ditched her into black hole again.

Chapter Text

She woke up dizzy, dried blood painting her wrist. Groaning she sat up, streching her limbs. She fell down the rabbit hole again. Charles can't know. Nobody can't. 

Max played her, fucked with her feelings all over again and she let him. Why couldn't she just love Daniel? It would be so much easier for her. He was kind, and funny, and he liked her.

But would he like the real her? The one no one except Charles knew. The insecure one, the one who harmed herself when shit got bad enough?

She took her phone, opening his chat. 

''Hey, sorry for yesterday. You came for me, and I completely ignored it. Apology lunch? My treat.''

She smiled as the lines went blue, and he started typing immediately.

''Only if I get to pick you up, beautiful.''

Maybe everythink could still be good. Maybe it wasn't too late.

Daniel stood leaned against his car, bright smile on his face as always. She checked him out and gulped. Dark skinny jeans that accented his thighs even more, and white baggy shirt that made his tan stand out even more. It didn't help that his curls were messy from the wind. And before she managed to control herself, she said it outloud. 

''Wow.''

Daniel let out a loud laugh. ''You don't look bad yourself, baby. Come on, lunch is waiting.''

They mostly ate in silence, but she felt at peace. 

''So..Rory, I wanted to ask you something.''

She looked up from her plate, eyes wide as she nodded.

''Since I met you, you intrigued me. I...I started to enjoy the racing again after everything they did to me, thanks to you. And I really like you. You're nice, you're smart, an amazing driver and I would be the most grateful man to be able to call you mine...girlfriend? I understand if it's too much and you don't want it yet or at all, but I-''

''Daniel.'' She stopped his ranting, taking hold of his hand across the table.

''I'm not that perfect. And I can't promise you a lot right now. But I am willing to try.''

He smiled, kissing her hand. ''That's more than enough.''

Peace didn't last long though. In the famous world, nothing can stay hidden for long. They were photographed leaving the restaurant together and as soon as she came back to her room, her phone started exploding with notifications from different gossip sites. 

''Ricciardo and Leclerc's sister: F1's New Power Couple?'' ''Daniel Ricciardo Stole Aurora Leclerc's Heart?''

She knew it was coming, sooner or later, but she did hope they'd had more time. Now, it was all laid bare for the world to see.

Then came the calls. From her mom, who asked a hundred questions. From Charles, who couldn't contain his happiness being so glad she finally found someone. From Arthur, who threatened Daniel if he ever did her wrong. One call never came, and she resented herself for still wishing that it did. His silence was louder than any of the noise around her. He won't call. Why would he? She meant nothing to him.

Lucky for Aurora, Daniel handled the press amazingly, speaking about ''getting to know a wonderful person'' and ''the joy of new beginnings''.

She was scrolling through her phone when once again gossip channel popped up.

''Verstappen spotted with Kelly Piquet at the Party''

The photos were nothing but flawless. Max, dressed contrary to his usual RedBull attire, his hand around her waist. She hated herself for reading the article attached. 

''A fresh start for Verstappen? Couple was spotted together at the party of their shared friend, looking cozy. No statements have been made yet.''

Of course he would date a fucking A-class model. She was perfect. Beautiful. And she was...well...she. And he made it clear that she wasn't what he wanted.

Monza

Max was more than pissed. He won't be starting the race at all, once again. So of course, when Aurora managed to secure P2, he had to let his anger out. On her.

The door of her driver's room flew open just as she was about to pull her fireproofs down. He stepped in like he owned the place, locking the door behind him. Aurora froze in place, holding her top in front of her, hidding herself behind it, her heart pounding against her ribs.

''What the fuck Max? I'm not wearing a top! Get out!'' 

He cocked his head, a cold look in his eyes as he tsked. ''Dont' flatter yourself, little Leclerc. I'm not interested.''

She felt her heart sink in her chest. Of course he wasn't. Her hands tightened on the fabric.

''What do you want Max?''

''I want you to leave.''

''What?''

''I don't want you as my teammate. Especially not now, when you're fucking with my friend.''

That's when she's finally had enough. There was nothing to love there at the moment. 

She dropped the shirt she was holding, revealing her lacy blue bra. 

''You don't want me as your teammate? You're angry because I'm happy Max. You're angry because I have better results than you this season. You're angry, because you can't control it. And Daniel is not someone I'm fucking out of spite for you. I like him. And we are together.''

Max's eye twiched. Smirk vanished.

''I don't need to control you, Aurora. You still come running every time. You read every headline. You stalk my Instagram. You let yourself be torn up by my actions. Who, between us, is really in control here?''

Her smile dropped. He was right. She did come running. Stupid, stupid girl.

''I won't leave.''

''I'll make you.''

''You will leave me alone, Max.''

''Or else what? Hm?'' he stepped closer to her, his eyes falling down her body. Her breath hitched as his finger traced a feather-like pattern across her collarbone.

''You'd spread your legs right now, and I wouldn't even have to ask.''

With his point made, he turned around and walked out silently, leaving her alone with the pieces of her dignity scattered across the floor.

She drove like hell.

''That's P1 Aurora! Amazing race today, bring it home!''

She won. At Monza, no less. After everything Max said to her, she won, and he didn't even start the race. It brought her satisfaction. She didn't need to prove herself anymore, to anyone. She knew her worth. And Max was about to learn it too.

When she hopped out of the car and straight into the arms of her mechanics, her eyes swept over the crowd. She saw Daniel just tick to the fence. Without thinking about it, she pulled him over the fence and into her arms and then kissed him. 

Everyone around them exploded into cheers. Cameras flashed, capturing the moment. 

She had won. Not just the race, but herself. She would forget him. And he would regret it.

Max watched it all unfold from his private room. He sat in silence for a long time, the noise from outside a dull hum in his ears. When his PR officer stepped inside to call him for an interview, he interuppted her before she had a chance to say it.

''Cancel them. I'll pay whatever. And I want to speak to Christian. Right now.''

He will get rid of her, even if he had to give everything he had. And he would make sure she knew that he did it.

Christian finally had enough with both of his drivers. It started to affect the whole team and the performance. Sponsors were starting to ask questions and he knew he had to do something.

The email came through to both of them at the same time: a single, simple calendar invite for a ''mandatory team-building weekend'' at a secluded alpine resort.

So when he came to his office and found both of them sitting inside with their arms crossed, he let out a sigh.

''This is not working. Your rivalry, whatever it is you're calling it, is affecting the team. So, effective immediately, you will both be attending a team-building retreat. It's a weekend-long event. Just the two of you, the team psychologist, and a series of trust-building exercises.''

''I won't go.'' Max said calmly. ''She is the one who doesn't belong here. You can't cast ME away.''

''What makes you think I'd go with you, you idiot?!'' she yelled back.

Christian slammed his hands on his desk.

''I don't care if you want to go! Either of you! But if you don't, don't bother showing up for the next race. Am I clear enough?''

The silence that followed was heavy and absolute. For Max, it was an insult to his ego. For Aurora, it was a punishment. But they both knew there was no more options left. They were both going.

The resort was beautiful, nestled in a valley of pine trees and snow-capped peaks. A perfect place for a perfect misery. They drove there separetely, savouring the last moments of their freedom. But the problems started just at the reception.

Max strode up to the counter first, giving his name. Aurora followed, holding herself just far away.

''What do you mean, one room?'' Aurora said when the receptionist handed a single keycard to Max. ''We are two people! We need two single rooms.''

The receptionist smiled politely. ''Sorry, I'm just following Mr. Horner's orders. One suite, two beds, and a living area. Enjoy your stay.''

Max snorted, taking the keycard. He didn't even look at her. He just turned and walked towards the elevators, leaving her standing alone at the reception desk.

He walked inside first, tossing his bag onto the couch without a word.

The suite was breathtaking. A large, elegant living area opened to a balcony with stunning private view of the mountains. A fireplace stood in the corner. But her eyes were immediately drawn to the bedroom. There were indeed two beds, but they were placed too close. Way too close.

''I'm sure you'd have preffered a one bed, little Leclerc.''

Chapter Text

''Don't worry, Max. I have no intention of sharing anything with you. Ever again.''

She didn't wait for his response. She began to unpack her bag, moving around stiffly, but her hands were trembling. Damn you, Max.

The suite was rather warm, Max noted to himself, as he scrolled on his phone, sitting on the sofa next to the fireplace. Yet, she never changed out of her long-sleeve shirt, even for sleep. She was probably ashamed, he thought, a smirk creeping up on his face.

He thought she was asleep and finally decided to go take a shower. He didn't even spare a glance to her side of the room, with the lights already out as he stepped towards the bathroom door. Then he noticed the gap and the stray of light coming out of it. He quietly walked up to the door, not opening it wider and peered inside. 

She didn't see him. Her back was turned to him as she stood in only her bra and pajama bottoms. She was putting a cream on her arms, or so it seemed, and just as Max was about to turn around and head back into the room, he looked at her reflection in the mirror. Or more like, at her arms. His smirk vanished as he felt his blood run cold. That was a scar. A fresh one. Did she..? 

He suddenly felt something he didn't want to feel. A hot, twisting knot in his stomach made him feel sick as he quickly pulled away from the door.

When she finally came out, freshly showered and dressed again, she found him looking at her. ''What? Is there something on my face?''

Max opened and closed his mouth. ''I'm sorry, Aurora.''

That made her stop in her tracks, confusing covering her face. ''What? What are you talking about?''

His eyes fell on her covered wrist and she followed his gaze, suddenly crossing her arms over her chest in self-defense. 

''I..I saw your wrists, Aurora. I...'' he faltered, the words catching in his throat. He saw the instant panic in her eyes. As he stood up, she took a step back.

''Leave it. I don't need your schooling on this too.''

Max watched as she retreated to her bed in silence, her whole body stiff. He felt..guilty.

He kept starring at her, before deciding to try again.

''You're not the only one, Aurora.'' He noticed how her breath caught, but she didn't turn around.

''It's..my dad..just see for yourself.'' 

That made her turn in her bed to face him, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and confusion when she saw him taking his shirt off. Just as she was about to yell at him for taking his clothes off in front of her, she saw it. Barely visible in the low light of the bedside lamp, but still there. Three little circle bumps on his chest. Scars.

''Cigarette burns.'' he said lowly, almost wincing at the memory it brought up, the ugly past he'd never shown to anyone.

Aurora's eyes flickered from his face to his chest in circles. And for a second, just a second, she wavered. But then she remembered how fragile he pretended to be the last time after she kissed him, how he made her confess her feelings and then laughed before he left her. What if this was jsut another game? That's it. Another twisted game.

''Don't. Don't do this, Max. I know what you're trying to do. You'll use it against me. You'll use it to make me feel weak. You'll laugh at me, again.''

And just like, his face slipped into the coldness again. What was he even thinking? He hates her. So much. He should hate her. Right?

He walked back to his bed and turned to face the wall. Stupid idiot.

At 7am, sharp knock was heard at the door.

When Max opened it, Dr. Helen, woman with a professional, but kind smile stepped in.

''Good morning Max. Aurora. Let's start, shall we?''

Both of them groaned in union, a small, shared moment of misery that felt ironically like a kind of bonding.

''Let's start simple. A life line exercise. I want you to each draw a line on the paper and plot the major events of your life-the highs, the lows, the moments that defined you. Don't worry about sharing them yet. Just draw.'' She handed each of them a marker and a large sheet of paper. The room fell silent. Somehow, these peaceful exercises were about to turn into a minefield.

Aurora began to draw, a thin line the only visible thing on the crisp paper. The highs were easy: her first pole, her first podium, her move to Formula One, her victory at Monza. The lows were harder to face. Line dipped as she remembered her father's death, continuing with feeling just like a shadow to her brother's success.

Max drew his lines angrily. Championships, victories, records. His whole damn career was a success. But his lows..were deep and hidden, private. How his father left him in the middle of the night when he was just a kid, a lit cigarette being pressed into his chest. His biggest low, was his father's cruel love. If it could even be called love.

When they were both done, Dr. Helen asked them to face her. ''No need to share yet. Just look at it. You both have a path, and they are both only yours. No judgements. Everyone deserves a praise for their highs, but even more for surving their lows. Think about it.''

Neither of them said a word. She remembered his burn marks. He remembered her sliced wrists. There was no need to look at the lines. They were both broken, their traumas making them cold and shielding them from everyone trying to get in. She didn't have to ask them to share. They already had.

They stayed alone in silence after she left. Max went out to the balcony, his jaw clenched, while Aurora stayed in the living room, grabbing a book she had no intention of reading.

Just as she zoned out, her phone buzzed. It was a text from Daniel.

''Hey there, beautiful. How is the weekend schooling going? Missed me yet?''

She felt bad instantly. Even if Max brough out the worst in her, she hadn't thought about texting Daniel since last night. She felt a twinge of guilt.

''I'll survive. Sorry for not texting. Schedule here is really tight.''

She put her phone down, trying to push Daniel's kind words and her own guilt away, but she couldn't. She looked over at the figure on the balcony. Even from behind, he looked like a caged lion, ready to strike any second. 

''If only I didn't love you so much..'' she muttered under her breath sadly.

Max stayed on the balcony for a long time, deep in his own thoughts. She didn't know he'd heard her. She won't know.

When he finally came inside, she was in the room. He grabbed his jacket, and without a glance, left the suite. The door clicked shut, leaving her alone.

After what seemed like hours later, the lock on the door turned, and Max stumbled inside. He shrugged off his jacket and tossed it on the floor, his eyes unfocused as he stumbled into their shared room. He let out a bitter laugh.

''Don't pretend you're asleep. We both know you can't, with me in the room.''

He swayed on his feet, holding onto the door frame for support. ''You think you're the only one who has secrets, huh? You think you're the only one who's a mess?''

He stumbled over to her bed and fell onto it beside her, making her jump up. His eyes were no longer cruel. They were simply broken.

She stared at him, to shocked to say anything. He was a breath away from her, their bodies almost touching. She didn't move, and she wasn't even sure if she wanted to.

Then his hand came up, and he brushed a strand of hair from her face gently. She held her breath. ''I fucking hate it. Hate that I don't hate you, little one.''

Oh God. Oh no. This can't be happening. Not now. 

Not when you're drunk, damn it.

And just like that, Max Verstappen was kissing her. In her bed. Fuck.

Chapter Text

Max groaned as the sun hit his face, rolling over in his bed. ''I'm never drinking again.''

He finally pulled himself up to sit, looking around the empty room. His eyes fell on the glass of water and two pills beside it on his nightstand. 

The events of last night came crashing into his mind. Too many vodkas, too many words. Aurora. The kiss. Oh fucking fuck. No, no, no, it can't be.

''Idiot,'' he muttered to himself.

When he finally pulled himself out of his bed and his misery, he walked into the living room, still finding no trace of Aurora. That's when he noticed the balcony door was open, and caught a peek of her pink jumper. He walked over quietly, and she didn't turn around even if she did hear him come.

''Go on, Max. Tell me how much you regret it. Bask in your morning glory of how I kissed you back,'' she said bitterly, her whole posture stiff. ''Laugh again at the girl who fell to easily.''

''I'm sorry.'' And she cursed herself for it, but that made her turn around to face him, her eyes wide in disbelief.

''I wasn't thinking,'' he continued carefully, his blue eyes not leaving hers for a second. ''About last night, about what I did. I thought I-''

''You thought what? That I was some model? Kelly? Someone worthy of your attention? Well, sorry to dissappoint. Now let's just get over with this day and go home.'' As she wanted to pass him and go back inside, he pulled her by her arm and made her crash into him, chest to chest. 

''You're not doing this.''

''Watch me.''

As she was pullling her arm free from his hold, he grabbed her face, pulled her in, and kissed her. This time, only, he was sober, fully knowing what he was doing. Aurora refused to accept the fact she melted the second he pulled her in. At least her mind did, because her body had a mind of its own, and she was kissing him back. But contrary to the last two times, this kiss was different. Gentle. It was like Max was savouring every second of it because he knew he wouldn't get a chance to do it again. When they finally broke apart, both breathing heavily, their foreheads leaned together, Max finally spoke. 

''I won't bother you anymore. I promise. You are a good driver, and I'll leave you alone on track. Go to Daniel. Be happy. You deserve a good guy.''

''What?''

''You don't have to worry about me destroying anything in your life anymore,'' he said pulling away from her, her teary eyes following him. ''Just..promise not to harm yourself again. Not for me, not for anyone.''

She was too shocked to speak, to stop him, to do anything other than nod. 

And just like that, Max Verstappen left her standing alone, once again.

What neither of them noticed, was their assigned doctor watching them from balcony above and smiling as she dialed Christian's number.

''Christian, hi. I think we're done with the weekend. You shouldn't have any more problems with your star drivers.''

''I'm grateful for you Helen. It was about bloody time they came clear.''

They hadn't even said their goodbyes before they drove away, both relieved that the session was cut short because of their ''mutual progress''.

Daniel was already waiting for her when she pulled in, a bouquet of roses in his hand and his signature smile plastered on his face. She couldn't help but replay Max's words in her head as he pulled her in for a hug.

''Hey there, beautiful! Survived the weekend?''

''Yeah, it was okay. Thanks for coming.''

''I missed you.''

She swallowed the bitterness in her mouth. ''I missed you too.''

''Max, baby,'' he grimaced as Kelly kissed his cheek carefully, making sure not to smudge her lipstick. ''So happy you're back! We were invited to a party tonight, I already accepted for us!''

He rolled his eyes. He wasn't in the mood for anything at the moment, especially some fucking party. He kept replaying their kiss from this morning, how she melted under his touch, how she fit underneath his hands, like she was made to exist there. But he knew it wasn't possible. It couldn't be. She will be better off with Daniel. Someone like her was way too sweet, way to innocent for someone like him. He needed someone who won't request affection, someone who was fitted to his life, someone who won't ask questions. Someone like Kelly. Even if the thought of it made him wince. But Kelly won't be judged by his father. Kelly won't be described as someone from a poor, scrappy family, the words he heard more than once about Charles. Jos would never accept her. So Max didn't even bother trying.

Baku

Aurora arrived in paddock with Daniel, her hand in his, smiles on their faces. She was trying to make it work, trying to accept the sweet, uncomplicated affection he offered, but Max was a ghost she couldn't shake off somewhere deep in her mind.

Max walked beside Kelly, his face stoic as always. He took couple pictures with some fans, answering the press on the go, all while holding her hand and tracing the paddock for a sign of a girl in RedBull shirt. Maybe it would be better if he didn't see her at all.

Practise sessions were almost sterile. Both of them drove perfect laps, exchanging the fastest times, but never coming into each other's way. 

Max knew he needed to hold up his end of the bargain. He needed his control back. 

Aurora, on the other hand, was looking and waiting for something, anything. Silence was way worse than his sneeky remarks or yelling. Hell, even fighting would be better than this. He was true to his word. He stayed away from her, both in her private life and racing. 

Christian was more than satisfied, but Aurora? She was silently fumming.

The silence reached it's peak after the race on Sunday. Charles won, with Max and Aurora in second and third. She kept hugging Charles, overjoyed for him.

She was genuinely happy for her brother, but every cell in her body was painfully aware of Max's piercing gaze. 

He saw the pain in her eyes, a reflection of his own hidden torment, and a small pang of guilt ran through him. He send her away. He didn't have any right to sulk now.

Champagne was sprayed, laughs were shared and the moment was over.

But Max's debrief was just starting. Just as he answered the call, venom in his father's voice spilled.

''You let that fucking loser win today. Get a fucking grip on yourself, boy. Dissappointment.''

''I finished second, dad. He had the pace today.''

''Pace? There's no such thing as pace. There's only winners and losers, and you chose to be a fucking loser today. You're soft. You're losing your focus. You think you can be a champion feeling like that? You think I went through all of that for you to be a fucking weakling?!''

Max didn't respond. There was no need to, because Jos hanged up before he had a chance to. He had been right to send her away. He was not a person who deserved a good life. She was too good, too sweet, too much to lose to the broken parts of him. He was a champion because he was a machine, and machines didn't feel guilt.

Chapter Text

The season went on, and with it, life did too. For Aurora, it was a season of blooming. She and Daniel had made things official, what somehow also made him her unofficial manager, as he never missed another race weekend since. Her on-track performance was a stunning reflection of her new-found confidence, and she seemed untouchable.

Max, on the other hand, was spiraling. He kept everyone at a distance, including Kelly and any female company at all. Nothing felt right. The weight of his father's dissappointment and his own thoughts were squeezing him from every side. He was a shell of his former self, and it showed on the track. For the first time in his career, he was consistenly falling short, surrendering his championship lead and barely hanging on to the second place. 

They drove the same car, with the same updates, yet, she won almost every race, and Max was nowhere to be seen. Never fast enough to challenge her. 

The climax arrived in Abu Dhabi. The race was a high-stakes finale, and Aurora needed this win to claim the championship. The final lap was a blur of tears and raw speed. She was perfect. When she crossed the finish line, fireworks went off in the night sky. She screamed on the radio, tears already streaming down her face. Max finished second, both the race and the championship. They won constructors.

Everyone expected some kind of bitter reaction. They expected him to go straight to his garage, to rage at his team, to lash out at the world that had done him wrong. 

So when they saw him come over to her car first, it seemed like the whole paddock fell silent. He walked with a purpose, a tired look on his face. He extended his hand, and Aurora, barely out of the seat, took it. Everyone knew it in that moment: she had earned the respect of the reigning world champion. 

What no-one saw, was how his grip tightened for a split second, a desperate connection, and how his glove-covered thumb swiped over her trembling fingers. No-one, except two of them. Her visor was up, helmet still on, and their eyes locked. 

''I'm proud of you.'' he mouthed, his lips forming the words so silently she would have thought that she imagined it. 

And with that, Max was gone. He walked away, disappearing in the crowd, just as Aurora was swamped away by her awaiting team and Daniel.

She was a world champion, but deep inside, she never felt more alone.

She laughed, she hugged, she drank and danced the whole night, yet, not even the alcohol could delete him from her head. His words. His touch. His eyes.

She had everything she fought for, everything she wanted, with nothing more to prove to anyone. But the one person who really understood the cost of it all, wasn't there.

Or so she thought.

Max was sitting in a secluded booth, some girl he didn't know chatting his ear off. He kept downing drinks like water. His eyes were on Aurora across the room, the same sickening feeling of pride and and loss twisting in his gut. He had done the right thing. He had set her free before she got tangled in his darkness. So why did it feel so bitter?

The crowd eventually thinned, and the night grew late. Aurora refused Daniel's offer to go back to hotel together, claiming she was too tired and wanting to call her mom, because she couldn't be there. They said their goodbyes, and she stepped onto the dark teracce, taking a shaky breath. At first she didn't notice the figure standing in the corner, but he heard her come and turned around, another glass in hand.

''Max.'' Her breath hitched. 

His eyes were hazy with alcohol, but the pain in them was sharper than ever.

''Aurora.''

''Were you here all night?''

''Didn't want to shadow your celebrations,'' he slurred, one hand reaching out to support himself at the railing.

''Don't do that,'' she said, her voice dropping. ''Don't pretend you're a monster when I know you're not.''

His smile faltered. ''I am what I am, Aurora. Don't go looking for something that isn't there.''

She took a step closer. 

''Then why did you come to me after the race? Why did you say those things?''

''Because I am,'' he whispered. ''I am so fucking proud of you, little one.''

He took a stumbling step toward her, his hand reaching out, his expression a mix of pleading and raw agony. ''I was proud of you from the moment I saw you in that car. Since the first day...it wasn't a rivalry. It was...I don't know what it was. But it was ours. And now..now you're a champion. And you're happy. And that's all that matters.''

Aurora stared at him, seeing the truth laid bare. He hadn't given her up because he didn't care. He had given her up because he cared too much.

''You're right. I am happy. I've built a life. I have my team, family that supports me. I have Daniel.'' She let out a huff. Max looked down.

''He's good to me. He's kind and nice, and life with him is peaceful.''

Max still didn't look up at her. ''I know.''

She was now even closer, already able to feel the heat radiating off his body, the scent of alcohol and cologne. ''I have everything I ever wanted. I have nothing left to prove. I should be completely, utterly happy.''

''I know.''

''You don't know shit!'' she finally snapped. Max's eyes went wide.

''Because if I have all of that, why can't I stop thinking about you?''

He didn't move. He didn't speak. He just kept staring at her, trying to process her words.

Slowly, his hand, which was resting on the railing, curled into a fist. His eyes, now clear of alcohol-induced haze, were filled with sorrow.

He reached out, pulling her to him, his arms wrapping around her waist. He didn't say a word. He just lowered his head and kissed her.

When they finally pulled apart, both breathing hard, he was the first to speak. ''I'm sorry,'' he said, but it wasn't an apology for the kiss. It was an apology for everything.

''You keep saying sorry. And yet you keep kissing me, only when you're drunk.''

''I know. That's why this is a goodbye, Aurora.'' he said, his voice full of heartbreaking finality. ''I'm retiring. This is the end.''

''What?!''

He took his hand from her face and stepped back, creating the distance they had spent a season trying to mantain. ''Go be a champion. Be happy with Daniel. You deserve it. Just..forget about me.''

Before he could open the door to step inside, he felt her hand on his bicep. He didn't turn around, he couldn't.

''Is this it? You just give up?''

''I have to. I can't be in the same world as you and not be with you. I can't be around you without destroying everything good in your life.''

''I'm not talking about you destroying my life. I'm talking about you destroying your life. Max, you were born to do this. You were born to win. And now you're giving all of that up just to run from me?''

He flinched. ''I have to.''

Her hand fell down from his arm.

''If you make one more step, Max, then I swear to you, it's done. Whatever this was. This time for good.''

Door closed behind him silently, and Aurora let out a loud sob.

Maybe there was a price to success after all.

Chapter Text

BREAKING: Max Verstapppen Retires From Formula 1

Four-time World Champion Max Verstappen has released a statement about his decision to retire from Formula 1 in the aftermath of Abu Dhabi where his teammate, Aurora Leclerc clinched her maiden championship. Verstappen released no further comments, neither did the RedBull who now suddenly finds itself without their main driver. Will this retirement push Leclerc into the number one seat, or will she be overshadowed by the new potential teammate to come? More informations following soon.

Last person he expected to see at his doorstep, pushing him back on his chest as soon as he opened the door, was her.

''You fucking fucker!'' she pushed him again, and he stumbled backwards. He let her. ''Why?! Why did you this?! I fucking won and you still managed to make it about you!''

He didn't move to stop her as she stormed past him into his empty penthouse. The door swung shut behind her with a loud thud, and she spun around to face him. Her face was red, her eyes burning with fury he had never seen before.

''Do you know what it's like out there?'' she spat, her voice thick with emotion. ''Do you know what my inbox looks like?! What Christian has been texting me?! They all expect me to do something, while I have no fucking idea what the hell I'm supposed to do!''

''I didn't do it to overshadow your win,'' he finally said, his voice coming out as a whisper.

''I already told you why. I can't be your teammate anymore.''

''Then change the fucking team, Max! Don't retire for fuck's sake!'' she screamed, her voice cracking with the sheer force of her frustration. 

''There is no other team for me. They gave me a chance when no one did, they made me a champion. It's a family.''

''So you just walk away from it all? From the whole sport? From your passion?''

''Didn't you say we were done for? What are you even doing here?''

She froze. ''You know what? You're right. We are done. Have a nice life, Max.''

He only let out a breath when she was gone.

She was furiuos as she drove back to her place. Her phone kept pinging and ringing, and she seriously considered throwing it out the window. Christian kept calling, PR kept texting, and just as she was pulling into her building, a sea of paparazzi was waiting for her, cameras already flashing. Just great.

When she finally got past everyone and stepped into her apartment, Daniel was already there and waiting with open arms. She melted into his hug, cuddling instantly. He was warm and smelled like fresh-brewed coffee and it made her calm. But he was clueless.

''Did you talk to him? Why did he retire?'' he murmured into her hair, kissing her softly.

''Just Max being Max. He refuses to stay if he can't win. That's all.'' she lied, the words tasting like ash in her mouth.

''Yeah. Sounds like Max to me.''

''Did you ever think about coming back? To racing?'' she asked, changing the subject.

Daniel pulled away to look at her. ''No, after how it ended, not really.''

''Shame. We would have been great teammates.''

''Sorry babes. I prefer being your WAG instead.'' She hit him on the chest playfully, laugh breaking out of her. ''Idiot.''

BREAKING: Oscar Piastri to join Aurora Leclerc as her teammate for the next season

Max was starring at his buzzing phone. He ignored it. He had disconnected from the F1 world, cutting every tie. But the world, it seemed, wasn't done with him.

The television, left on in the background, showed a live news feed.

''New bomb just dropped from Red Bull Racing. Team has announced the driver who will be taking Max Verstappen's vacant seat for the upcoming season.''

Max's head snapped toward the screen. The image of a young, familiar face appeared next to his own. Oscar.

Report kept talking about the building of new ''super team'' and Aurora's new dominance era.

He heard the same words about himself thousand times before.

Truth was a bitter piece to swallow. They had all already moved on. And he was the one who wanted it like that.

But, the devil never sleeps, so when Red Bull decided to indirectly put all the blame of letting Max slip away on Christian, releasing him from his position immediately, who was the first person they called? 

2 months later, Milton Keynes

''You got to be kidding me.'' Aurora murmured under her breath, watching the man step inside the meeting room in Milton Keynes. Team polo already on, serious expression on his face and laptop bag in hand, he strode to the only unoccupied place at the table: the CEO seat.

Oscar's face lit up, obviously happy to see someone so experienced take the lead of the team. Aurora, on the other hand, was fumming, paper crumbling under her hand.

''Hello everyone. Let's get to work, shall we?''

The room fell into a stunned silence. No one spoke. The engineers, the strategists, PR managers - they all watched as Max sat down with the practised ease of a man who belonged there. His eyes swept over the table, landing on Aurora last. A hint of a smile, a flash of something she couldn't identify, touched his lips for a fraction of a second before his expression settled back into a professional one.

He was still the same man she screamed at in his house, the same man who had walked away from everything. He said he couldn't bear watching her and not having her. What was this supposed to mean then?

Max opened his laptop and the meeting began, but all Aurora heard was the faint buzz in her ears. For two months nobody has heard from him. And now this?

''That concludes the performance review for the last quarter.'' he said, closing his laptop with a soft click. The room was tense, the team holding its breath. Nobody could believe he was there again.

''Aurora, if you'd please stay behind. I have to speak to you.''

The quiet scraping of chairs filled the silence as everyone in the meeting room shuffled out. The air between the two was thick with a tension so heavy she could almost taste it.

''You're surprised,'' he said, without turning around from the big glass window he now stood by.

''You told me you were done with it all,'' she said, her voice shaking with a fury she was trying to contain. ''You told me you couldn't stand being here. You retired, Max. You fucking retired!''

He finally turned to face her, a dark knowing look in his blue eyes.

''Maybe,'' he started, stepping closer to her, making her step back in question. ''Maybe I don't want to stay away anymore.''

''What do you mean?''

''I'm done racing, Aurora. I already achieved everything many can only dream of. My name is written in history - forever. I can't be your teammate, we're both way too fierce to accept coming second. But I can be your boss.''

''You're no boss of mine.''

''You sure about that?''

''I will tell Daniel everything. I'll leave.''

''No you won't. Your time is just coming. There are many more wins in front of you. Many records waiting to be broken. And I can help you.''

''I don't need your help.''

''What do you need then?''

''I needed you! You knew it and you decided to leave. There is no going back now.''

He didn't say a word. He just turned, grabbed his laptop bag from the table, and walked toward the door.

''Don't you dare,'' she choked out.

He stopped, his hand on the doorknob.

''I can't be a teammate to the woman I - to you.''

Aurora didn't think, she just moved.

She launched herself at him, her body a blur of motion. Her hands found his shirt, twisting into the fabric. She was a whirlwind of rage and heartbreak and desperation, trying to force him to look at her, to make him feel the gravity of what he had done.

They stumbled back against the wall, her sobs breaking the silence. He didn't fight her. He simply held her, his arms wrapped around her, one hand on the back of her head, the other resting on her waist, holding her still against his body. He let her sob, let her hit him, let her rage burn itself against him.

He held her there for a long time, the only sound in the room her heartbroken sobs. Slowly, the fury drained from her, leaving only the raw, aching pain. He felt her hands unclench from his shirt, her grip softening as she finally went limp against him.

He had left because he couldn't stand to watch her and not have her. He had come back because he couldn't bear to be without her at all. But right now, holding her so fragile and broken in his arms, he re-questioned every single day he left her alone.

''Come on, let's get you out of here. It's getting late.''

''Please don't leave me. Please.''

Her voice was a whisper, a sound so small and broken it felt like the most devastating plea he had ever heard. The words were a direct knife to his chest. He had pushed her to her breaking point, and now, finally, she had given him everything.

He didn't move. He just held her tighter, pulling her so close there was no space left between them. His head lowered, his chin resting on top of her head.

''I won't,'' he murmured, his voice thick with a promise that had been a long time coming. ''I won't ever leave you again.''

Chapter Text

''What the hell do you mean you broke up with Daniel?! And why are you calling me from Verstappen's phone?!'' Aurora visibly winced as Charles screamed into her ear from the other side. 

''I'll explain everything, Charlie, just please, hear me out. I never meant to hide this from you.''

12 hours ago

She didn't let go of Max even when he brought her to his hotel room, trying to get her to sit on the bed. ''Please, Aurora, I'm not going anywhere. I'm only gonna get you something comfy to wear.''

He gently peeled her arms from his neck and helped her sit on the edge of the bed. She looked up at him, her eyes red-rimmed and exhausted from crying. He pulled out a hoodie from his suitcase, passing it over to her. She changed without a word, feeling his scent settle over her, making her calmer than ever. ''I have to call him.''

Max looked over at her. ''Are you sure you want to do it like this? He..he loves you.''

''And I love you.'' she said, the words coming out quiet. ''I can't keep lying to everyone anymore. Including me.''

Max didn't say anything, passing her his phone in silence, as he remembered how her purse stayed back in the meeting room, her phone included. She stared at Daniel's name, her thumb hovering over the call button. The silence in the room was deafening. She finally pressed it, holding her breath. 

The phone rang twice before Daniel's warm, familiar voice came through the line. ''Max, mate! Congrats on your new role! How is it leading the team now?''

''Daniel, it's me. Aurora.''

She heard shuffling on the other side, like he just stood up. ''Rory? Baby why are you calling from Max's phone? Is everything okay, are you hurt? Where are you?''

She winced at his concern. He so didn't deserve this. 

''Yeah, I'm fine, no one is hurt. I..I just forgot my phone at the factory, that's all. Daniel, I..I need to tell you something.''

''What is it?''

''I..I can't do this anymore,'' she choked out. ''Us. I can't...I can't keep doing this.''

There was a long pause on the other end, and she knew the storm was coming soon. ''I don't understand. We were just talking this morning..what happened?'' His voice was laced with a painful confusion.

She couldn't explain. She couldn't tell him about Max, about their whole history that somehow destroyed her present. All she could manage was a strained, ''I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry, Dan.''

''Is..is this about Max? There is something going on between you two, isn't there?''

Her silence was a louder confession than any words could ever be. She could hear him take a shuddering breath on the other end of the line. ''I just..I wish you would have told me at the beginning. I would have understood. I always understood, Rory.'' The line went dead.

She lowered the phone slowly, a single, silent tear trailing down her cheek. Max kept watching her, opening his arms slowly, and it was all it took for Aurora to break down again.

She didn't try to hold back the sobs this time. She moved into his embrace, her body shaking with the weight of everything she had just done. She had hurt Daniel, a good man who had always been there for her. The guilt was eating her inside out, and she sobbed into Max's chest, the sound muffled by his hoodie.

Max held her, his arms wrapped tightly around her, one hand on the back of her head, the other rubbing small circles on her back. 

After what seemed like hours of silence, Max spoke, his voice low and steady.

''I remember when you used to come cheer on Charles in karting, wanting to drive his kart yourself. You crashed it that one time, and you just started to cry. And I..I wanted so badly to fix it for you, just so you could giggle happily again. Of course, I could never say it out loud, or else my father would've.. Anyways, then I went on and didn't see you that much anymore. But I always knew you'd make it. And when I heard about you coming to be my teammate, I was so pissed off. Then it just got worse. Every time I saw you, every time you were on the podium, every time you had a press conference, I felt it. The ache. The need to do something, anything. I couldn't handle it. I thought if I hated you, if I left, I could finally be free of it.''

''And the whole time,'' she whispered, ''I was with Daniel. I was trying to be with someone who was everything you were not. He was kind, gentle, and he would have done anything for me. But I kept waiting for you to come to me. To maybe love me back. And when you did, it broke me.''

''I only left because I couldn't stand to watch another man be with you. But I was a fool for pushing you away, when I could have been that man all along. But I'm here now. And I won't repeat the same mistake again.''

He slowly turned her around to face him, before he leaned in and kissed her. The fighting was over. The game was over. There was only the start of their new beginning.

The morning sun crept into the hotel room, a soft, golden light that was a stark contrast to the darkness of the night before. Aurora woke to the weight of an arm around her, and the gentle rhythm of a steady breath. She was in Max's bed, wrapped in a blanket, his head resting in the crook of her neck. For the first time in what felt like a lifetime, she felt at peace.

She gently shifted, her hand brushing his warm cheek. Max's phone lit up on the nightstand. She slowly reached for it, checking the time. It was almost noon. There were dozens of missed calls and text messages, the last one from Charles, asking if she was with him because she wasn't answering her phone.

She took a deep breath, knowing she couldn't avoid it any longer. Charles is going to kill them both. She moved to the edge of the bed and pressed his contact.

It rang once before he picked up, his accent coming out strong.

''Max, where are you two?! Where is my sister?!''

''It's me, Charlie. Everything is okay. I forgot my phone at the factory.''

''Aurora? Are you okay? Where were you? Daniel called me, he said you broke up with him.''

''I did.''

''What the hell do you mean you broke up with Daniel?! And why are you calling me from Verstappen's phone?!''

''I'll explain everything, Charlie, just please, hear me out. I never meant to hide this from you.''

''Did you spend a night with him? What the hell were you thinking, Aurora?''

''Please don't shout. It's complicated, Charles. I didn't mean to hurt Daniel, I swear.''

''Oh, you want to explain?'' Charles's voice cracked with a fury that was both familiar and terrifying. ''When did you become this person, Aurora? You started hurting people who care about you. What happened to my sweet little sister?''

Aurora felt tears pooling in her eyes. She clutched the phone tighter, her knuckles turning white. She couldn't give him all the answers over the phone. Not when her entire world had been turned upside down less than 24 hours ago. The truth of it all, the painful history with Max, the choices she made, none of it could be reduced to a hurried explanation over the phone. 

She took a shaky breath, preparing for what she was about to say.

''I love him, Charles.''

Charles fell silent on the other side.

After a long moment, he finally spoke again, his voice low and devoid of emotion. ''I won't accept this.''

''I can't keep lying to myself, brother.'' she whispered, a fresh wave of tears spilling down her cheeks.

Line went dead. 

Chapter Text

Max had been watching her the entire time silently, but she didn't notice until she turned around and came face to face with his blue eyes. He had heard.

He didn't speak. He simply crossed the distance between them and gently took the phone from her hand, placing it on the nightstand.

He pulled her into his arms, holding her close. "We're in this together," he said, his voice low and steady. "The world is going to have a lot to say about this. Your brother will come around with time, baby. We need to decide what our next move is."

"I... I don't know what to do," she whispered, her voice cracking.

He held her tighter. "We have to decide if we face them, publicly, or if we deal with this on our own terms. In private." He wasn't asking for her permission. He was stating a fact. "But I'm not leaving you. Ever again."

She closed her eyes, leaning into his embrace, and for the first time since yesterday, she felt a quiet strength returning. He wasn't giving her a choice in whether they stayed together. He was just asking her how they would face the world.

"I don't want to hide anymore." She murmured softly and that did it for Max. He opened Instagram, and after a moment of quiet thought, he began to type. The message was simple and direct, a statement of fact for the world. He knew he didn't need to explain anything, just confirm the truth.

"For all those who have been wondering. Happy. Now let's focus on the race."

He looked at the photo of their hands, intertwined and still. The image was quiet, but the words were a thunderclap. He hit "Post."

The social media broke over the news. Then, his phone began to vibrate with a rush of notifications. The notifications were relentless, a digital avalanche of likes and comments from millions of people, a tidal wave of public opinion that had been waiting to crash.

He looked at Aurora, his expression calm. He had made his statement. Their private world and public life had just collided.

Aurora picked up his phone, her eyes wide as she scrolled. The feed was full of headlines from gossip sites.

"LECLERC-RICCIARDO SPLIT CONFIRMED: AURORA SPOTTED WITH MAX VERSTAPPEN"

"F1'S GOLDEN COUPLE NO MORE: RUMORS SWIRL AROUND VERSTAPPEN'S RETURN"

"A FAILED PARTNERSHIP? TEAM CHAOS HITS RED BULL RACING"

A message from Gemma popped up on the screen, a formal, all-caps command:

"DO NOT SPEAK TO ANYONE. STAY IN THE HOTEL. I AM ON MY WAY."

She shut the phone off, her heart pounding in her chest. A knock on the door brought them out of the silence, and Max stood up to open the door. Gemma stood on the other side, her face red from the rush, hurrying into the room and checking if anyone saw her come. She passed Aurora her phone with a sympathetic smile and sat on the stool by the small coffee table.

''So, you two, huh? Can't say I didn't expect it, to be honest. You two were a ticking bomb bound to explode. But, Max, Instagram? Really? You never posted anything willingly, in your whole life.''

Max just shrugged, nonchalant as ever. ''Felt like it.''

''Max, you're the team principal now. Aurora is your driver, above all else. It's controversial.''

''She won't be my dirty secret, Gemma. She isn't one.''

Aurora put her hand on his shoulder, clutching it tightly. ''Max, maybe Gemma has a point. This will be..bad.''

''I don't care. It's done. Gemma will help us navigate the rest that follows.''

''Right.'' Gemma nodded, pulling out her tablet. ''Let's get to it guys.'' She turned the screen toward them. ''Here are the key points of the narrative we need to sell..''

''We have a press conference scheduled for later this afternoon to answer any questions. Just keep the answers to what we talked about, and it should be fine.'' 

''What if they ask a question that's not on the list?'' Aurora asked, her voice tight with anxiety.

Gemma's eyes met hers, a flicker of genuine sympathy in her eyes. ''Then you let Max handle it,'' she said simply. ''Because he will. You just need to be his driver.''

Cameras were flashing, murmuring voices could be heard, the smell of tension in the air almost chocking them as they walked into the hotel's conference room. Reporters from every major sport news outlet were packed shoulder to shoulder, their phones and microphones pointed at the two empty chairs at the front. Max and Aurora walked side by side, Gemma one step behind them. When they finally sat down, Gemma stepped forward.

''Thank you all for coming. We will begin with a brief statement from the team principal, Max Verstappen, followed by a few questions from the room.''

Max adjusted the microphoone in front of him, and the room fell silent. He looked at the sea of faces, his expression cold as ever. To the dissappointment of the masses, Max didn't mention a word about the photo, choosing to talk about team's commitment to the championship this year, with all the major changes that happened within the team.

When he was done, dozen of hands were already in the air.

''Max,'' one of the reporters began, his voice loud and clear. ''The photo on your socials, and the end of Aurora's relationship with Daniel Ricciardo - are the rumors true? Are you two together?''

The entire room fell silent, all eyes fixed on Max. Aurora's heart pounded in her chest.

''I think the photo speaks for itself.'' Max replied, his voice flat. ''I'm not going to elaborate on it any further. We have more important things on the agenda.''

But the reporter didn't back down. ''How does Aurora feel to be exposed like that, questioning her worth of the F1 seat?''

That made Max stop. ''Aurora is an A-class driver. She won the championship while I still raced beside her. That says enough. Her love choices have nothing to do with her career.''

''But won't she automatically be labeled as the number one driver now?'' another reporter chimed in, stepping forward. ''Meaning Oscar is there only for the leftovers.''

''Oscar is an F1 driver. My driver. He's not a leftover. We are a team, and we will win as a team. The only 'leftovers' here are the stories you people write to fill your gossip magazines. Next question.''

But they weren't giving up. A young female reporter stood up, smirk on her lips. She looked past Max, her eyes fixed on Aurora.

''Aurora, if you don't mind. Max has been very clear about his role as team principal and your professional worth. But this situation is incredibly personal. What do you have to say to Daniel, whom you were with until yesterday? And how do you feel about the fact that your relationship with your boss is now more dominant than your championship?''

All eyes fell on her. She had been silent until now, her hands clasped in her lap, but at the sound of Daniel's name and the brutal accusation about her career, she slowly unclasped them and raised her gaze to meet the reporter's. 

''Daniel is a great person,'' she said, her voice surprisingly steady. ''And our relationship was private. What happened between us will remain between us. But as for my professional worth..Max is right. I won the championship, and I did it on my own, in my rookie year. My life outside of the car does not dictate my value inside of it. My focus is, and will always be, on racing.''

The reporter's smirk faltered slightly.

After couple more questions directed to Max, they were finally done. When they finally stepped back into his hotel room, they both let out a loud breaths. Aurora finally turned her phone on, and the screen lit up with a flood of notifications - missed calls from her mother, texts from Charles, and a torrent of messages from friends and colleagues. She scrolled through them all, her eyes landing on a latest messages from Daniel and Charles. It had been sent just minutes ago, right after her statement at the press conference.

She opened the message from Daniel first, her hands trembling.

''Nice act out there. Please leave my name out of it from now on. I don't want anything to do with you two.''

She didn't have time to process it, because the one from Charles was even worse. He wasn't angry. He was giving her an order.

''Either you're coming home tomorrow, or I'm coming there.''

Chapter Text

Monaco

''This is going to be so, so bad Max. You shouldn't have come with.''

''Nonsense. I won't let you do this alone.''

The door opened and they were both greeted with Pascale's warm smile.

''Hello! Max, dear, welcome! Come in, don't just stand there.'' Max almost froze when she pulled him into a warm hug, taking a second to react and hug the older woman back. Aurora smiled. Maybe this dinner won't be so bad after all.

The apartment was filled with a comforting, familiar scent of sauces. Pascale led them into the living room, and Aurora's brief moment of relief passed as quickly as it came. Charles was already there, lounging on the sofa by the window. Next to him, Alexandra. Lorenzo was chatting on the phone, waving silently to the both of them, and Arthur was already over and hugging the life out of her.

Pascale continued to be the gracious host, ushering Max to the living room. ''Dinner will be ready soon. Charles, don't be a grumpy cat and say hello to Max and your sister!''

Charles groaned, rolling his eyes. He managed to nod curtly at him. ''Max.''

Max remained unbothered, sitting down calmly and chatting with Arthur instead.

''This smells delicious, mama,'' Aurora said, genuinely thankful for the distraction.

''You know me,'' Pascale replied with a smile, taking her seat at the head of the table. ''I always make too much food.''

Once everyone was settled, there was a brief moment of silence as everyone filled their plates. It was Charles who finally broke the silence, his voice low and cutting. ''So, Aurora. Are you finally going to tell us what happened, or are we going to have to wait to find out from the news?''

Aurora's hand, which had been reaching for her fork, froze mid-air. She looked at her brother, who was staring at her with a look of hurt and accusation in his eyes.

''I was going to tell you everything, Charles.''

''Oh, really?'' Charles scoffed, a bitter smile on his face. ''After the world already knew? I thought we shared everything, Aurora..''

''Charles, it's not her fault. I posted that photo.'' Max looked at her and then at Charles, his voice calm as ever. ''If you want someone to blame, blame me.''

''Don't even start Max. I thought Daniel was your friend, you two-''

''It's not about Daniel, Charles! I love Max! Not Daniel, not someone else! Max! I loved him my whole life!'' Charles froze as Aurora stood up and yelled. Her hands were clenched into fists and her whole body was shaking.

Charles anger was gone, replaced by an utter disbelief. He looked at Max, then at Aurora, as if seeing them for the very first time. Everyone at table was silent.

''Can we talk? Alone.''

''Of course.'' Siblings stood up from the table and left the room.

When they finally walked out to the terrace, Charles let out a deep breath. He leaned against the railing, his gaze fixed on the twinkling lights of Monaco below. 

''You said you loved him your whole life.'' he said, the words barely a whisper. ''What does that even mean?''

Aurora moved to stand next to him, gripping the cool metal of the railing. ''It means what I said, Charlie. I fell for Max a long time ago. Before either of us made it so far. Before I even knew it was possible to be on the same team as him. I just..I never thought anything would come of it. So I buried it.''

She paused, watching his reaction. He was now staring at her, his face a mix of pain and confusion.

''I tried to move on, Charles. With Daniel. And I did love him, I really did. But it was different kind of love. It wasn't..this. With Max, it's not just love. It's deeper than that. Passionate. Hard. Real. He understand me in a way no one else can.''

''So...Daniel was just a distraction? Someone to fill the space until Max was available?''

Aurora flinched, as if he had slapped her.

''No, Charles. Never. I loved Daniel. He was my best friend. He made me laugh and he was there for me, and that was real. It was a good kind of love.''

''I don't understand,'' he said, his voice barely a whisper. ''I don't understand why you couldn't have just told me.''

Tears filled her eyes. ''I was afraid. I was so afraid to lose you. I knew how you felt about him, about us racing together. I didn't want to make things even more complicated. I was terrified of what you'd say, what you'd do. I didn't want to risk my relationship with you.''

Charles slowly reached out, wrapping his arms around his sister.

''I'm your brother, Rory,'' he said, his voice muffled against her hair. ''You could never lose me.''

He held her for a long time, tension finally leaving them both as she leaned into him, her tears soaking his shirt.

After a while, he pulled back, his hand still on her shoulder. ''Okay?'' he asked softly.

She nodded, wiping her eyes and giving him a small smile.

When they came back inside, all eyes were on them. Charles squeezed Aurora's shoulder once more before taking his seat. He looked directly at Max before he spoke seriously. ''If you ever hurt her, I'll run you over with my Pista. Multiple times.''

A quiet smile touched the corners of Max's mouth. He looked at Aurora, then back at Charles before he nodded slowly.

''Duly noted. But you won't have to. I promise.''

The rest of the evening passed in a blur of small talk and laughter. As Max and Aurora finally stood at the front door, ready to leave, Pascale pulled them both into a tight, warm hug.

''Thank you for coming, Max. You are always welcome here.''

Charles stood in the doorway behind her, his arms crossed over his chest. He didn't say anything, but as Aurora hugged him, he melted. His eyes met Max's over her shoulder. This time, there was a silent nod of respect, a truce made.

When they finally drove off, Max took her hand in his and kissed it softly. The worst part was over. The rest would be proved on the track.