In Every Quiet Moment

Max Verstappen x Reader

Summary: as a gifted pianist struggling to make ends meet in Monaco, you never expect your quiet world to collide with Formula 1’s fiercest driver … until a rain-soaked night, a stray kitten, and a cup of hot chocolate change everything

The rain comes hard and sudden, like a tantrum. It slaps against the café windows in sheets, hammering the cobblestones and turning the square outside into a glossy watercolor. The sky is bruised, the streetlights yellowing the mist, and the world feels like it’s been dunked underwater.

You glance up from where you’re wiping down the espresso machine, sighing. Another late night. Another storm.

You're alone. The chairs are flipped upside-down on the tables, lights low, Edith Piaf humming quietly from the little speaker you keep on the counter. The smell of cinnamon and leftover croissants lingers faintly.

You stretch your wrists. Eight hours of class, three hours on shift, and you still haven’t practiced your Liszt etude. The anxiety tightens like thread in your chest.

And then — movement. Outside. You blink, stepping closer to the window.

There’s a man. Tall. Absolutely soaked. He’s crouched beside the steps just past the awning, knees bent, arms out. You squint through the glass.

A kitten. Small, skinny, trembling.

He’s trying to coax it out from beneath a stone bench, his jacket shielding it from the storm.

You hesitate. Logic says to mind your business. Let the guy deal with his savior complex in peace. But your hands are already reaching for the door.

It groans as you pull it open. Cold air slaps your face. “Hey,” you call, barely audible above the downpour. “Hey, do you need-”

He turns.

Your breath catches — not because he’s handsome, though he is — but because there’s something strange in his expression. Like you’ve caught him in something private. His jaw tightens. He doesn’t say anything. Just lifts the tiny ball of fur against his chest with careful hands.

You frown. “Is it hurt?”

“I don’t know.” His voice is low. Rough like gravel. A weird contrast to how gently he’s holding the kitten. “It’s freezing.”

You open the door wider. “Come in.”

He hesitates. Glances down the street, like maybe there’s somewhere else he’s supposed to be. Then back to you. You think he’s going to refuse.

But he steps forward.

The bell jingles above the door. You lock it behind him.

“Sit,” you say, motioning to the bench along the wall. “I’ll get towels.”

He doesn’t argue. Just lowers himself silently, kitten still tucked inside his jacket. Water drips in small pools around his boots.

You disappear into the back room, grabbing the cleanest dish towels you can find and one of the café’s emergency hoodies you sometimes wear when the heat’s out. You hand them to him.

“Thanks.” His eyes flick up to yours briefly. They’re blue — so much lighter up close. He rubs the kitten dry first, talking to it under his breath like it’s a scared child.

You don’t ask questions. Just move behind the counter and start the steamer.

“You want hot chocolate?” You ask.

A pause. Then a quiet, “Yeah. Sure.”

You make it the way you like it — extra thick, pinch of cinnamon, real whipped cream — and slide the mug across the counter. He looks at it like he doesn’t know what to do with something that kind.

“What’s its name?” You ask, settling across from him.

He lifts a shoulder. “Didn’t ask.”

You smirk. “Well, she looks like a Phoebe.”

“That’s a horrible name.”

“I like it.”

“She’ll get bullied at school.”

“She’s a cat.”

He actually smiles at that. It’s barely there, but it softens something in his face. You realize, suddenly, how tired he looks. Not just from the rain. The kind of tired that lives deep in the bones.

You lean forward, chin on your hand. “What were you even doing out there?”

“Walking.”

“In this?”

“Couldn’t sleep.”

You nod slowly. “Insomnia or caffeine?”

His brows lift slightly. “Why not both?”

You laugh, short and surprised. “You’re really not gonna tell me your name?”

Another pause. He blows into the mug, watching the steam curl around his fingers. “Do I have to?”

“No,” you say. “But I’ll name you too, if you’re not careful.”

His eyes lift, direct and unreadable. “I’d rather you didn’t.”

That makes you curious. But something about his tone — quiet, almost pleading — makes you let it go.

You sit there a while longer. The storm beats on. He finishes the hot chocolate and wipes the kitten’s nose. You give him a take-home box for croissants and leftover brioche. He accepts it with a small nod, still saying nothing about who he is or where he’s going.

He leaves without giving you his name.

You only realize who he is when you’re sweeping up later. You find the receipt under his mug, flipped upside down, with the credit card slip still attached.

€2,000 tip.

You stare. Check the name.

Max Emilian Verstappen.

You almost drop the broom.

***

The next evening, it rains again. Not as hard, more of a romantic drizzle this time. You’re closing up, humming through your teeth, when the bell above the door chimes softly.

You turn, halfway into your apron. And there he is. Dry this time. No kitten.

He doesn’t say anything. Just stands in the doorway like he’s waiting for you to yell at him for being weird.

“You came back,” you say, blinking.

He shrugs. “You were nice.”

You smile, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. “You left two thousand euros. I could’ve retired.”

“You work too hard to retire,” he says quietly.

That stops you. You don’t know how he knows that — but somehow, he does.

You clear your throat. “Hot chocolate again?”

He nods.

This time he sits at the counter instead of the bench. Closer. You make the drink slowly, trying not to stare. He’s different tonight. Relaxed. Still quiet, but not like he’s hiding. Like he’s … watching. Noticing.

You set the mug in front of him. “So. Phoebe survived the night?”

“She’s living in my guestroom now. Chewed through my charging cord and pissed on my sock.”

“Sounds like love.”

He smirks, sipping. “She’s angry. Loud. A menace.”

“Like you?”

“Worse.”

There’s a comfortable silence that stretches between you. You wipe down the bar again, more for something to do. He traces a finger along the wood grain.

“I meant to say thank you,” he says after a moment. “For last night.”

You glance up. “You did. With money.”

“That wasn’t-” He sighs. “I didn’t mean to do it like that.”

You raise a brow. “Then how did you mean to?”

He pauses. “I panicked.”

“Panicked?”

He shifts in his seat, suddenly sheepish. “I … don’t usually talk to people like that.”

“Like what?”

“Like-” He cuts himself off. “Like a normal person.”

You can’t help the laugh that escapes you. “Are you not a normal person?”

He tilts his head, studying you. “Depends who you ask.”

The bell rings softly as a breeze sneaks in through the window crack. You tug your sleeves over your hands, watching him quietly.

“Why are you here?” You ask. “I mean, really.”

He sets the mug down. “Because I wanted to be.”

You blink. “That’s not an answer.”

He leans in slightly, forearms resting on the counter. “You didn’t ask a real question.”

You look at him. Really look. There’s something magnetic in the quiet way he holds your gaze. No arrogance. Just … interest. Like he’s trying to memorize the way you wrinkle your nose or tug your sleeves.

You tilt your head. “Okay, then. Real question.”

“I’m listening.”

“Why come back if you don’t want anything from me?”

He looks down. “Who says I don’t?”

Your breath stutters. You laugh, but it’s nervous this time.

“I don’t-” you start, then shake your head. “I’m not really looking for anything.”

He shrugs. “Me neither. Maybe that’s the point.”

You’re quiet.

You don’t know why this is happening. Why a man like him is sitting here, watching you like you matter. Like he wants something real in a world where everything around him is so curated and artificial.

You take a breath. “What if I like things slow?”

“Then I won’t rush.”

“What if I have too much going on? I study ten hours a day, I work nights, I barely remember to eat.”

“I’ll remind you.”

You blink. “You’re a stranger.”

“I’m Max.”

The sound of his name makes something shift. It sounds … different when he says it. Not like a brand or a headline. Just a person.

You swallow. “You want more chocolate?”

He smiles — small, genuine. “Yeah. Please.”

So you make another mug. And this time, when you slide it toward him, your fingers brush his.

Neither of you move.

Outside, the rain keeps falling.

***

Max begins showing up every few days. Never on a schedule, never with warning. Just … appears. Quiet. Steady. Always a little after dusk, when the tourists thin out and the locals disappear behind shuttered windows. You’ll be wiping a table, or refilling the sugar jars, or humming some half-remembered étude under your breath, and then — there he is. That same quiet presence at the counter.

He never makes a move. Never flirts. Never pries.

Just sits. Watches. Listens.

You talk. He answers. Sometimes only in nods or dry little asides, but you get used to the cadence of it. The careful way he measures his words. You find it oddly comforting, the way he’s so still in a world that never stops spinning.

He tries everything on the menu eventually. Buys an absurd number of pastries he doesn’t eat. Leaves tips like he’s trying to buy the building.

“Max,” you say one night, eyes narrowed as you hold up the receipt. “You’ve got to stop. This is getting offensive.”

He shrugs. “It’s a good café.”

“It’s a tiny café.”

“Still good.”

You lean across the counter, mock stern. “Do you do this at Starbucks too?”

“I’ve never been to a Starbucks.”

You blink. “You’re joking.”

He shakes his head. “Do I look like someone who’s been to a Starbucks?”

You stare at him. The sweatshirt he’s wearing is probably worth more than your rent. “… Touché.”

He just smirks into his coffee.

That becomes the rhythm. Every few days, a quiet ritual. A strange, tender peace you hadn’t realized you needed.

And maybe it would’ve gone on like that forever — slow, safe, unspoken — if not for the man with the red scarf.

***

It’s a Thursday night. Cold enough that your breath fogs when the door opens. The café is quiet. A few locals sipping espressos near the back, and a lone stranger nursing something bitter at a corner table.

You’re behind the counter, arms elbow-deep in hot water and soap, humming under your breath when you feel it. That prickling sensation between your shoulder blades.

You glance up.

The man in the red scarf is watching you.

You ignore it. Keep washing. Then he clears his throat. Loud. Once.

You look again.

He crooks a finger. “Petit cul.”

Your eye twitches. You dry your hands, approach slowly. “Don’t call me that.”

He smiles, too wide. “Pardon, mademoiselle. I forget how things work here.” His French is lazy, Parisian. The kind that pretends not to see dirt. “You’re the one from the other night, no?”

You frown. “Other night?”

“You were playing piano in the square. Badly.”

You blink. “Wow. Thanks.”

He grins like he’s charming. “No, no, I meant it with affection. You're pretty. That’s what counts.”

You take a deep breath. “Can I get you anything else?”

He leans forward. “Maybe your number?”

You pull back. “Not for sale.”

He laughs, but there’s something sour underneath it. “All these pretty girls think they’re so above it now. What happened to politeness?”

You don’t answer. Just walk away.

And that’s when you hear the chair scrape.

At first, you think it’s the man standing. But the weight of a different presence hits you.

You turn.

Max is at the counter. You hadn’t seen him come in.

His voice is low. Unmistakable. “Is there a problem?”

You look between them. Max is calm — too calm. His hands rest lightly on the counter, but his stance is taut. Controlled. Lethal in the way a loaded gun is.

The man in the red scarf scoffs. “This your boyfriend?”

Max doesn’t blink. “No.”

Your stomach twists.

“But you’re going to leave now,” Max continues, “and you’re going to do it without saying another word to her.”

The man’s smile fades. “Who do you think you are?”

Max steps forward once. Not threatening, exactly. Just closer. “I think I’m someone you don’t want to test tonight.”

It’s not a threat. Not really. It’s said with the same calm tone you’d use to discuss weather. But something in it shifts the air. The man goes pale.

He mutters something under his breath and grabs his coat. Leaves without looking back.

You exhale slowly, trying to uncoil the tension in your spine.

Max says nothing. Just waits until your eyes meet his.

“Are you okay?” He asks softly.

You nod. “Yeah. I’m fine.”

He looks unconvinced.

“I’ve had worse,” you add. “Waitresses aren’t exactly the least harassed demographic.”

Max’s jaw clenches. He says nothing.

You run a hand through your hair. “Thank you. For that.”

He shrugs. “Didn’t do anything.”

“You scared the hell out of him.”

“That wasn’t hard.”

You pause. “Want a hot chocolate?”

He hesitates. “Walk with me instead.”

You blink.

His voice is softer now. Almost hesitant. “If you’re off?”

You glance at the clock. Fifteen minutes to close. The café is empty now. Quiet.

You untie your apron. “Let me grab my coat.”

***

The streets are still damp as you walk. The air carries the smell of sea salt and wet stone. Max keeps close, hands in his pockets, his steps slowing to match yours.

You pass under a streetlamp, and for a second, it feels like you’re inside a movie.

“You didn’t have to do that,” you say quietly.

“I know.”

“But I’m glad you did.”

He glances sideways. “Some people think silence is an invitation.”

You snort. “Story of my life.”

He watches you. “You shouldn’t have to fight them off alone.”

You smile, but there’s something sad behind it. “I’m used to it.”

“You shouldn’t be.”

You fall into silence again. His coat brushes yours.

Then — voices.

A small group of teens cross the square ahead. They freeze mid-step when they see him.

One gasps. “No way. Max Verstappen?”

He stops. Exhales. “Yeah.”

“Can we get a photo?”

He nods, patient, stepping aside. You stand back, awkward, watching him smile for the camera. His posture shifts. Not stiff, but practiced. Familiar.

They thank him, then run off, giggling.

He turns back to you.

You raise a brow. “Is that your normal walk home?”

He shrugs. “Sometimes.”

You laugh, shaking your head. “I forget, sometimes, who you are.”

His voice is quiet. “Good.”

You glance up at him. “Doesn’t it get annoying? Being known everywhere you go?”

“Yes.”

“Then why do it?”

He’s quiet for a while. “It used to mean something different. Now … I don’t know. I like the racing. Not the circus around it.”

You hum. “You’re still in the circus.”

“Yeah. Guess I am.”

You stop at the edge of your building. A narrow stone façade with ivy curling up one side. Your windows are dark. The air smells like lavender from the old woman’s garden next door.

Max lingers.

You bite your lip. “Want to come up?”

He lifts a brow. “Do you want me to?”

You shake your head. “No. Not tonight. Just — thank you for walking me.”

He nods. “Of course.”

But he doesn’t leave right away.

You hover near the door. “Max?”

“Yeah?”

“You’re not … doing all this just to be nice, are you?”

He blinks. “What do you mean?”

“I mean …you don’t have to fix everything. Or show up every time it rains. Or save me from creeps. I don’t want you to feel like-”

“I don’t.”

You study him.

He meets your gaze. “I don’t do things I don’t want to do.”

Silence.

Then he adds, quieter, “You’re not a project. You’re not something broken.”

Your throat tightens.

“I come here,” he says, “because I want to see you. That’s it.”

You nod. Swallow. “Okay.”

He turns like he’s about to go, then pauses again. “You were playing Debussy in the square. That night.”

You blink. “You where there?”

He nods once. “It was raining then, too.”

A small smile touches your lips. “You like Debussy?”

He shrugs. “I liked how you played it.”

You step inside, the door clicking softly behind you.

And for the first time in a long time, you fall asleep with music in your head and something steadier than loneliness in your chest.

***

It’s late when Max asks.

You’re locking up the café, hands stiff with cold and knuckles raw from the wind, when he leans against the doorway — hood up, collar high — and says, “Come with me.”

You blink, keys half-turned in the lock. “Where?”

“My place.” His eyes hold yours. “Just to get away. For a few hours.”

You hesitate. Not because you’re nervous — well, you are — but not like that. It’s the weight of the offer. The intimacy of it. Not romantic, not sexual — something quieter. Like stepping into the private heart of a man who doesn’t let anyone inside.

You don’t say yes right away. You just meet his gaze, and after a long pause, nod once. “Okay.”

***

His apartment is tucked above the marina. You’d walked past the building a dozen times and never once imagined it held something this still, this understated. High ceilings, wide windows, warm wood and cool stone. Light, but not too much. Modern, but lived-in.

The scent hits you first. Cedar, citrus, and something darker. Probably him.

And cats.

There’s a blur of movement as you step inside. Then a paw. Then two. Then all at once, they’re there.

Max just smirks faintly. “Good luck.”

A sleek, skeptical Bengal perches on the armrest of the couch and stares at you like you’re a problem it’s been sent to solve.

“That’s Sassy,” Max says, slipping his coat off and hanging it neatly. “She owns the apartment. I just live here.”

A white blur shoots past your ankles. “Jimmy?”

“Donut,” Max corrects, heading toward the kitchen. “Jimmy’s the one with the attitude problem. You’ll know when he arrives.”

You bend down slowly, letting Donut sniff your fingers. Phoebe — the little kitten you first met in the rain — tumbles out from under a blanket and immediately starts scaling your leg.

Max’s voice floats in from the kitchen. “They’ll destroy your clothes. Sorry.”

“They’re worth it,” you murmur, untangling the kitten from your tights.

He gestures toward the open-plan kitchen, nodding at the counter. “Hungry?”

You raise a brow. “You cook?”

He rolls up his sleeves with a small smile. “Well. I try. Don’t get your hopes up.”

You step beside him. The fridge door opens to reveal fresh herbs, vegetables, and a frankly unnecessary amount of expensive cheese.

You smirk. “Trying to impress me?”

“Maybe.”

You laugh, and he gives a soft chuckle in return. It’s the most open you’ve seen him. Not the composed driver, not the cool-eyed guardian of Monaco cafés — just Max. Just a guy in a dark t-shirt who stocks more parmesan than sense and keeps four cats alive somehow.

***

You cook together slowly, messily. He slices vegetables with surprising precision while you burn garlic twice. At one point, you knock over a spice jar and send a dust storm of paprika across the marble. Max doesn’t flinch.

“Paprika’s overrated anyway,” he murmurs, sweeping it away with a practiced hand.

The radio plays softly in the background. Old jazz, something French. You hum under your breath while stirring the sauce, and Max leans back against the counter, watching you.

Not in a lustful way. Not even admiring. Something deeper. Like he’s memorizing the moment. Committing it to a part of him that doesn’t let go.

You glance over, caught by the intensity of it. “What?”

He just shakes his head. “You look peaceful.”

“I am peaceful.”

He grins. “Good. That was the point.”

***

Dinner is simple. Pasta, fresh salad, warm bread he didn’t bake but proudly heated up. You eat on the couch, curled under a blanket, with Donut curled beside your thigh and Phoebe nuzzling your ankle.

Max eats slowly. Savors things.

You, however, eat like someone who’s lived on café leftovers all week.

“Jesus,” you mutter, swallowing a bite. “This is good.”

His eyebrow lifts. “So you are impressed.”

“Don’t let it go to your head.”

Too late. His smirk grows.

Afterwards, you both stay where you are. The room glows with soft, golden light. The windows show the harbor below, lights glittering across water like scattered coins. You tug the blanket higher, eyes growing heavy.

Max barely speaks. Just watches you fight off sleep, his hand curled around a mug of something warm, his body still like he’s afraid of ruining the quiet.

“Is it always this calm here?” You ask.

He nods. “When I want it to be.”

You yawn, half-smiling. “I like it.”

Phoebe climbs onto your lap and purrs herself into a tiny, warm puddle. Your eyes flutter.

You don’t mean to fall asleep. You just … do.

***

When you wake, the lights are lower.

The room is quiet, save for the rhythmic purring of cats.

There’s a blanket draped over you now, thicker than before. Heavy with warmth. You shift slightly and feel the unmistakable weight of Jimmy — angrily curled beside your feet. You smile.

Then you hear it.

Max. In the next room. His voice is low, sharp. Controlled — but furious.

“No. I said no.”

You blink, pushing the blanket down slightly. The door to the hallway is ajar.

“I don’t care what they think — she’s not a story. She’s none of their business. Pull it. Now.”

Pause. A longer silence. Then his voice again, colder this time.

“If I see one word printed about her, I’ll bury the piece myself. Understand?”

You sit up slowly, heart pounding. His voice is quieter now. But still hard. Still carved from something that doesn’t yield.

“I don’t give a damn if they think it’s innocent. She’s not part of this. And I won’t let her be.”

Silence.

You don’t wait for him to hang up.

You push the blanket aside and step quietly into the hallway.

He’s in the small office off the kitchen. Back half-turned, one hand braced against the desk, the other holding his phone. He doesn’t hear you at first. Not until you speak.

“Max.”

He tenses. Freezes. Then slowly turns.

His eyes are darker than usual. He looks like someone who’s just stepped out of a ring — wound tight, ready for a fight.

“You heard that,” he says flatly.

You nod. “Yeah.”

He straightens. “I didn’t mean for-”

“Were they writing about me?”

He doesn’t answer. Just sets the phone down.

“Max,” you press. “What were they saying?”

“Doesn’t matter.”

“It does to me.”

A beat. Then, quietly: “They had pictures. From the café. From the night we walked home. Nothing bad, just … invasive.”

You blink. “Why?”

He shrugs, but the motion is rigid. “Because they can. Because you’re next to me.”

You step closer. “And you called them?”

“I made a call, yeah.”

“To shut it down?”

His jaw tightens. “Yes.”

“Max.” You stop in front of him. “You can’t just-”

“Yes,” he cuts in, voice low but firm. “I can.”

There’s a pause. The air between you shifts. The house is too quiet now.

You exhale. “You don’t need to protect me from everything.”

“I know that.”

“Then why-”

“Because I want to.”

You look up at him. He’s close now. So close it almost hurts.

“I’ll never let them touch you,” he says quietly. “Not while I’m breathing.”

You don’t answer right away. Can’t.

He watches you carefully. “If that’s too much-”

“No.” You shake your head. “It’s not too much.”

A silence falls between you. Not awkward. Not unsure. Just … full.

Finally, you say, “You care about me.”

He nods once. “Yeah.”

“And you’re not going to say it.”

“I just did,” he says softly. “In the only way I know how.”

You don’t know what to say to that.

So you step forward, press your forehead to his chest, and let the warmth of him settle around you.

His arms come up, slow, careful — like he’s afraid you’ll vanish. Like he’s not quite sure you’re real.

But you don’t vanish.

You stay right there. Wrapped in his arms, the soft thrum of his heart in your ear, with the cats still curled on the couch and the rest of the world held outside.

***

It happens the next morning.

You're still warm with the echo of his arms when you sneak out the back entrance of Max’s building, hoodie pulled tight, hair tucked under a beanie. You think you’ve done everything right — quiet footsteps, sunglasses, even that cautious glance around the alley before you step into the light.

But it’s not enough.

The flash comes out of nowhere.

One. Two. Three rapid shots. Then a voice — male, giddy, breathless.

“Miss, are you seeing Max Verstappen? Were you with him last night?”

You don’t answer. Just duck your head and walk faster, ignoring the burn in your throat, the sudden thud of your pulse. You don’t run — you know better — but your steps go tight, clipped. A door slams shut behind you, a car engine revs.

By the time you reach the music academy, your hands are shaking.

You don’t tell anyone. Not at first.

But the whispers start by lunch.

You catch your name in a student’s hushed voice. You hear Max’s in another. Then the article hits — small but vicious, your blurry figure circled in red, a headline that wants blood.

Verstappen’s New Flame? Mystery Girl Leaves Monaco Apartment at Dawn.

By evening, it’s everywhere.

***

Max calls. You don’t answer.

He texts: I’m handling it.

You stare at the message for a long time. Then turn your phone off and leave it on the counter like it’s something that might burn you.

By the next day, the article disappears.

Completely. As if it never existed.

A notice appears in its place.

Retracted at source.

Later, you overhear a barista talking about it with wide eyes. “Apparently his lawyers sent something like — what’s the word? A cease and desist? Except angrier. Like, terrifyingly angry.”

Someone else adds, “I heard he called someone at the top. Shut it down like that.” She snaps her fingers. “No wonder they’re scared of him.”

You press your hands into the counter, steadying yourself. Your phone pings when you step into the storeroom.

A screenshot.

An anonymous deposit confirmation. Six months of your rent. Paid in full.

Another message: Let me do this. Please.

You stare at it for a long time. Then close your eyes, lean your head against the cold concrete wall, and try not to cry.

***

The panic hits later.

Not all at once. Not in an obvious way. It comes quietly, like a tide. Like a soft pull at your ankles before it drags you under.

The guilt first — sharp and sour.

He’s spending his influence, his money, his power — to protect you.

You. A girl who plays piano in a dusty practice room and works shifts to afford cheap ramen. You never asked for this.

And the fear — oh, the fear — of what it means. Of what he might want. Of what you might want back.

So you do the only thing that feels safe.

You pull away.

***

You stop replying.

Not rudely. Just slowly.

A message takes a day to respond. Then two. Then none.

You say no to his quiet invitations — coffee, a walk, just ten minutes — offering gentle excuses that grow thinner by the day.

Your shifts at the café get longer. Your time at the piano stretches until your hands ache. You avoid the harbor. Avoid the old streets he likes.

Avoid everything that makes your heart hurt.

***

He doesn’t chase.

He doesn’t knock on your door. Doesn’t text again and again or show up late at night demanding answers.

Instead, he sends you a care package when you get sick.

It shows up at the café on a Wednesday — delivered by someone who doesn’t ask for a signature. Inside is some lemon tea, cough syrup, throat lozenges, two cans of the soup you once said reminded you of home, and a small stuffed cat.

A note, tucked between the teabags.

I’ll wait.

Nothing else.

Not even his name.

***

You cry in the break room. Not a lot. Just enough to taste salt when you breathe.

You feel stupid.

Then you feel worse — for thinking you were stupid.

You hug the stuffed cat against your chest and whisper, “I’m sorry,” even though he can’t hear you.

***

Three days pass.

Then four.

By the fifth, you can’t breathe when you walk past his street.

On the sixth, you stand outside his apartment building for fifteen minutes and never press the buzzer.

On the seventh, it rains.

Hard. Monaco rain. Thunder at the edges. Wind that flattens your jacket to your spine and makes your cheeks sting.

You don’t bring an umbrella.

You don’t bring excuses either.

You just walk, quiet, soaked to the bone, and let the elevator carry you to the only door that’s ever made you feel like you’re not pretending.

You knock once.

It opens almost instantly.

He doesn’t look surprised.

Just steps back and lets you in, eyes sweeping over you like he’s checking for bruises.

“Hi,” you whisper, wet and breathless.

He says nothing. Doesn’t ask where you’ve been. Doesn’t demand explanations or apologies or promises you’re not ready to give.

He just opens his arms.

And you fall into them like you never left.

His hoodie smells like him. Warm and clean and steady. You press your face into it and wrap your arms around his waist, trying not to shake.

He closes the door behind you with one hand, the other already sliding up your back.

You don’t speak. Don’t have to.

His chin rests on your hair.

You whisper, “I didn’t know how to-”

“I know,” he murmurs. “You don’t have to explain.”

Your breath hitches.

“I just didn’t want to mess it up,” you admit. “It’s so big. What you did. What you do. And I’m-”

“You,” he says gently. “You’re you. That’s enough.”

Your eyes sting again. You bury your face deeper into his chest.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” His voice is low. Kind. “You don’t have to be strong around me.”

You pull back, just a little.

Look up at him.

His eyes are impossibly gentle. No walls. No edge. Just patience. Just Max.

“I’m scared,” you say quietly.

He nods. “So am I.”

You laugh — just a breath, wet with tears. “Yeah?”

“I don’t usually let people in,” he admits. “I didn’t expect you.”

You blink. “Then why …”

His fingers brush your cheek, slow and reverent. “Because I’d regret losing you more than I fear what happens next.”

You stare at him. At his mouth. At the way he’s looking at you — like he’s memorizing this moment, too.

You lean in.

So does he.

The kiss is soft.

No urgency. No heat. Just warmth. Just yes.

His hand cups your jaw, thumb brushing your cheekbone. Yours curls into his hoodie, anchoring you.

When you finally pull back, you’re both smiling.

You exhale. “Okay.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

He rests his forehead against yours.

“I’m here,” he murmurs.

You close your eyes. “So am I.”

Outside, the rain keeps falling.

Inside, everything finally feels quiet again.

***

Max doesn’t say “I love you.”

Not with words.

He says it when he hands you a mug of tea without asking how you take it. He says it when he walks on the side of the pavement closest to the street. When he drapes a blanket over your knees during a movie, and casually shields your face from a photographer’s lens with the curve of his body.

He says it like that. Constant. Quiet. Absolute.

But tonight, he speaks more than usual.

It starts after dinner, while you sit curled against the arm of his couch, legs tucked under you, his hoodie hanging loose off your frame like it belongs there.

He’s staring into the middle distance, a glass of something amber untouched in his hand.

“I used to think loneliness was normal,” he says, voice low, like he’s not sure if he means to say it out loud. “Like it just … came with the job. The way you get used to jet lag or waking up in hotel rooms not remembering what country you’re in.”

You glance over, but don’t interrupt. You’ve learned with Max — he only opens the door a crack at a time. If you’re too eager, it closes.

He takes a breath, gaze still unfocused.

“There’s so much noise around me. All the time. Team, press, fans, cameras.” He finally looks at you. “And it’s not that I don’t appreciate it. But it’s like … you have to wear this mask so long you forget it’s not your real face.”

You reach out without thinking, fingers resting over his wrist. His skin is warm. Solid.

He watches your hand for a moment, then flips his wrist so his palm is up, letting your fingers slot into his.

“I’m not used to people wanting me without the mask,” he says, quieter now.

Your heart tightens.

“I don’t want the mask,” you whisper.

His eyes meet yours, sharp and grateful.

“I know,” he murmurs. “That’s why you scare me.”

You laugh, soft. “I scare you?”

Max nods, serious. “You don’t treat me like I’m something untouchable. You just … look at me.”

You squeeze his hand. “That’s all I’ve ever wanted. For someone to see me.”

That breaks something open in him. You feel it. The shift. The way his shoulders soften, eyes grow tender.

“Tell me,” he says.

So you do.

You tell him about the nights you spent alone in the conservatory practice rooms, pretending the piano was a friend, not a thing you owed perfection to. You tell him about how scared you are to want something for yourself. How it feels to be surrounded by people chasing dreams so loudly you sometimes forget how to hear your own.

He listens like he has nowhere else to be.

Not just hearing — holding.

Your words. Your silence. Your fear. All of it.

When you finish, he doesn’t speak right away. Just leans forward, brushing his lips to your temple.

“You’re not invisible here,” he whispers. “Not with me.”

***

The next few weeks are full of small shifts.

Your toothbrush finds a place in his bathroom. His hoodie disappears from his closet and ends up on your body more than his.

His cats take turns sleeping on you like you’re furniture now. Even Sassy.

Max kisses you in the kitchen. In the car. Once, under a streetlamp with rain brushing your cheeks, his hand cupped gently around your jaw like you’re something rare.

He doesn't let the world touch you. Not even once.

He’s fiercely protective — but not in a loud way. In the way he speaks to hotel staff when you travel with him for a race, making sure you’re not put near the media floor. In the way his hand never leaves your lower back when cameras are near, like he’s placing a shield between you and the noise.

You try not to need it.

You try not to expect it.

But when it’s him, it’s hard not to let yourself be protected. Just a little. Just this once. Just again.

***

The comment comes three races into summer.

You’re not even in the paddock — just sitting at a corner table in a nearby coffee shop, flipping through sheet music and sipping a drink Max had delivered for you before he left for press.

You look up when the door opens.

It's another driver — one of the younger ones. Cocky. Loud. The kind of guy who courts cameras like he was born for them.

He stops at your table, smirking. “Didn’t think Verstappen would go for your type.”

You blink. “Sorry?”

He shrugs, like it’s nothing. “Just saying. He usually dates models. You’re … different.”

Your stomach twists, cold and ugly.

You don’t reply.

He doesn’t give you time to.

“Anyway,” he adds, eyes trailing a little too slowly down your body, “guess even the best get bored of the same thing. Nice upgrade, though.”

The chair screeches back before you realize you’re standing.

But Max is already there.

You don’t know how he found out. You don’t even see him enter.

But one second, it’s just you and the smirking boy — and the next, Max is between you, not touching, not yelling.

Just present.

Heavy.

Silent.

The other driver’s smirk falters. “Hey, I was just-”

Max tilts his head. “Say it again.”

“What?”

“That line. Say it to her face. Slowly this time.”

Silence.

Max’s voice stays calm, almost soft. “You want to flirt, do it with someone who hasn’t told you no with their body language. You want to insult her, you say it so I know exactly what I’m responding to.”

The boy opens his mouth.

Max raises a single brow. “Try me.”

The tension shifts. Not loud. Not violent.

But dangerous.

The kind of promise you don’t test.

Max leans in, just a breath. “Next time you speak her name, it better be with respect. Or not at all.”

Then he turns, takes your hand, and leads you out like nothing happened.

Your heart doesn’t slow until you're back at his place, leaning against the door while he kicks off his shoes, jaw still tight.

“Max-”

He holds up a hand. “I know. I shouldn’t have. I know.”

You shake your head. “No. That’s not-”

He exhales, sharp. “I just saw red.”

“I know,” you say again, quieter now.

“I didn’t want you to hear it. I didn’t want you to feel that way. Like you're less.”

You step into him. “I didn’t.”

His hand curls around your waist. “But you could’ve. And I’d never forgive myself.”

Your fingers trace the edge of his jaw. “You stood up for me.”

He lifts his eyes to yours. “I will always stand up for you.”

The kiss is slower this time.

No heat. No anger.

Just need.

Just want.

***

It happens later — after dinner, after soft conversation, after you laugh so hard at a video he shows you that your ribs ache and your makeup smudges from tears.

You’re standing in his bedroom doorway, shirt too big, your hands gentle on the back of his neck, and you say, simply:

“I want you.”

His eyes search yours. Careful. Serious.

“Are you sure?”

You nod. “Yeah.”

He takes a breath, slow. Measured. Then presses his forehead to yours.

“Then I’m going to take my time.”

And he does.

***

It’s not rushed.

Not some fevered tangle of limbs or gasping urgency.

It’s reverent.

It’s slow hands under fabric, Max murmuring praises against your skin like scripture.

“So perfect,” he whispers. “Look at you.”

He never stops looking.

Not once.

He undresses you like he’s being given a gift. Touches you like you’re something he’s memorizing for a time when the world is dark.

You tremble beneath his hands, and he notices.

“Breathe for me,” he whispers, mouth trailing down your neck. “I’ve got you. You’re safe.”

And you are.

You feel it in the way he checks in with every touch. The way he waits for you to nod before he moves. The way he groans when you whisper his name like it’s a secret meant only for him.

He’s everywhere. Hands, lips, voice.

Guiding. Worshipping.

“Let go for me,” he says against your ear, tone wrecked. “I’ll catch you.”

And when you do, it’s not with noise — but with surrender.

The kind that only comes when trust is absolute.

***

Later, you lie tangled together in the sheets, his chest to your back, hand resting over your heart.

You don’t speak.

You don’t have to.

He presses a kiss to your shoulder, and you close your eyes.

The mask is gone now.

For both of you.

***

The letter comes on a Tuesday.

You almost miss it — tucked between a utility bill and a flyer for a French tutoring service you don’t need. The envelope is heavy, your name written in raised black letters, the seal pressed with something official.

You open it with the caution of someone who’s learned that good things don’t always come without cost.

Max is in the kitchen, barefoot, pouring coffee like it’s just another quiet morning. One of his hoodies drowns your frame. Phoebe is perched on the windowsill, blinking slowly at the rising sun.

And then you’re holding the future in your hand.

“Max?” Your voice wavers.

He glances over. “Yeah?”

You hold the letter up.

He stills. Puts the coffee pot down.

You don’t have to say anything. He knows.

The logo at the top says everything: New York Philharmonic.

You stare at the words like they might vanish.

They don’t.

You’ve been offered a position. A permanent one. Full-time, first-chair piano. They want you.

“You okay?” He asks gently, crossing the space between you.

“I-” You look up at him. “This is everything I wanted.”

He nods. “Yeah. I know.”

Before.

Before him.

Before Monaco and rainstorms and kittens and coffee shops and a Dutchman who looks at you like you’re made of sunlight.

You sink onto the couch. Max sits beside you, silent, waiting.

“It’s New York,” you say finally, like that’s the problem and the answer all in one.

“I’ve heard of it,” he murmurs, trying to make you smile.

You almost do. But your eyes blur a little.

“I don’t know what to do.”

He exhales slowly. “You don’t have to know yet.”

“I don’t want to leave you,” you say. “But I don’t want to regret staying.”

Max nods again. No flinch. No disappointment in his eyes.

Only patience.

Only love.

“I’ll never ask you to stay,” he says softly. “Not if it means giving up something you’ve dreamed of your whole life.”

You swallow. “But you’re everything I never dreamed of. And now I don’t know how to want both.”

He takes your hand in his.

“If you go,” he says, voice steady, “I’ll come to you every free weekend. I’ll fly out after every race, I’ll sit in the first row of whatever concert hall they put you in. I’ll drink burnt American coffee and learn the subway system and wait outside rehearsal with a sandwich if that’s what it takes.”

You laugh, eyes damp.

He keeps going.

“If you stay,” he murmurs, “I’ll make Monaco feel like home. I’ll move us closer to the sea, or the mountains, or wherever you sleep best. I’ll build you a studio. I’ll buy you ten pianos and soundproof walls and whatever else you need to play until your fingers are sore.”

Your throat tightens.

“I don’t care where you go,” he finishes. “I care that I go with you. So just … say the word.”

Silence stretches between you. Not tense. Just full. Full of every version of your future playing out behind your ribs.

Then you press the letter flat on the coffee table.

And you say, softly, “I want to stay.”

Max doesn’t speak.

He just pulls you into his arms like he knew all along.

***

You don’t waitress anymore.

One day you show up to work, and the manager meets you at the door with wide eyes and a folded note.

You open it slowly.

It’s Max’s handwriting.

Come home. You don’t need this job anymore. Your job is playing. And writing. And being exactly who you are when no one’s making demands on you. I bought the place. They can keep running it — unless you want it. Then it’s yours.

PS: The espresso machine’s still broken. Tell them I said to fix it.

You stare at the letter for a long time before smiling so hard it hurts.

And you do go home.

But not before waving goodbye to the café that’s now owned by a Dutchman with sharp eyes and a soft smile who only has eyes for you.

***

At night, the café changes.

The lights dim. The chairs shift. A piano appears at the front like it’s always belonged there.

Your concerts start quiet — friends, regulars, a few curious neighbors.

But word spreads.

You begin to compose your own pieces. Sometimes inspired by rain. Sometimes silence. Sometimes Max’s laugh or the way he breathes your name when he’s half-asleep.

He listens to every note like it’s a secret meant for him.

“You should record these,” he says one night, lying on the rug with Phoebe curled under his arm and Sassy on your shoulder.

You snort. “Right. Because everyone’s dying for a six-minute ballad about emotional intimacy and unresolved childhood grief.”

Max smiles, slow and sure.

“I am.”

You meet his eyes.

He means it.

***

You play at the café again that Friday.

The room’s fuller than usual. A couple journalists. A few photographers. Max sits in the back, quiet but unmistakable. Always watching.

You wear black tonight — simple, elegant. Your fingers skim the keys like they’ve always known where to go.

Before your last piece, you clear your throat.

“This one’s new,” you say, voice low. “I wrote it about someone who makes everything feel … easier. Even when it’s not.”

You glance at Max.

His eyes don’t leave yours.

The first chord is soft. Then swelling. A little sad. A lot hopeful.

When the final note fades, the room doesn’t move.

Then, applause.

But you only hear the sound of Max’s hands, steady and certain.

Afterward, he meets you at the edge of the stage.

You smile. “Was it too dramatic?”

He leans in, kisses your temple.

“I like dramatic.”

You tilt your head. “Yeah?”

His mouth brushes your ear. “I’m in love with dramatic.”

***

You find the recording equipment a week later.

Just … waiting.

Set up in the spare room. Wires. Mics. A soundboard you can’t name.

There’s a post-it on the chair.

In case you change your mind.

You roll your eyes. Laugh to yourself.

And start writing again.

***

You don’t take the job in New York.

You don’t regret it.

Not because it wouldn’t have been beautiful. Not because it wasn’t a dream.

But because some dreams change shape when you see what’s possible.

What’s real.

Like playing under golden café lights while Max sits in the shadows, looking at you like music was invented just so he could hear you play.

Like your name written in his handwriting on folded notes left by the stove.

Like Sunday mornings wrapped in each other’s arms, no performances, no cameras, just skin and breath and warmth.

And maybe someday you’ll tour. Maybe someday you’ll go to New York — not to live, but to play. To be heard.

But for now?

For now, you stay.

Because love like this?

You don’t walk away from it.

Not when he’s willing to give you the world.

And not when the life you never knew to dream about turns out to be everything you ever wanted.

Crash into my life - Lance Stroll x Civil Servent! Reader

Plot: You work in a fancy government job, pretty boring 9-5 but Lance Stroll and his insurance claim makes your job that little bit better

Your job wasn’t exactly fun, wasn’t exactly boring. It was one of those jobs that you’d got it at a young age and worked your way up through the ranks as you’d got better and better and because it was safe and something you were good at you stuck with it.

To keep it short and sweet you were a civil servant. Not like 007 kind of crazy stuff but you did work for MI6 in their fraud, tax and insurance department.

You basically took over insurance claims that were over a certain threshold and had to go through the government for … whatever reason whether they are a foreign National claiming in the UK or something.

Usually it was boring matters such as Chelsea Football Club claiming compensation for things as simple as water damages etc. You didn’t even really get to see anyone, you had the data and you analysed it against the scenario and hey presto you made your pay out.

Your favourite time of the year was winter. More claims came through and life was more unpredictable thanks to the whether. Delayed train into London St Pancreas? No tubes working so you have to make the 20 minute walk to your office building from the station. Slipping on ice, it was the only excitement you got in life which was honestly kind of sad.

For you it started at as a normal Monday. You woke up at 7am, brushed your teeth, got into a nice corporate appropriate outfit, got on the train, got a coffee from Pret before heading into your building.

That was your routine, and you didn’t often differ from it unless you had holiday booked. But working a 9-5 Monday - Friday often meant that you

But it felt like there was a different buzz today around the building like there was something going on.

When you all went into the morning briefing for the cases you’d get today, everyone was way too excited for 9am and the start of the day. You sat down next to your office buddy Shiv and looked around confused.

“What in earth is going on with everyone?” You ask looking over at Shiv who’s typing away on her laptop taking in information.

“Apparently there’s some really interesting cases to work on up for grabs today” she explains and you nod knowing once every blue moon some exciting things would crop up and have the whole office acting like kids on Christmas.

You’re all still waiting for the department boss to come in, joining in conversations about what could possibly be happening today.

“Ladies and Gents please take a seat for the meeting to commence. Thank you. Thank you” he offers smiling and everyone gets comfy.

“So we’ve got some exciting stuff today. I’ve formed a team to deal with the Train Networks Claim, that’ll be Shiv, Brayden and Ravi” he says and they all nod writing in their pads what tasks they’d have to do today.

He went through all of them apart from you, before dismissing the meeting. You were slightly confused and therefore packed up yours things a little slower than everyone else to see if you could stay behind and ask why you hadn’t been given an assignment.

“Y/N could you stay behind so I can talk to you for a moment” he asks and you nod, going to the end of the long conference table where he was stood.

“I like you, you’re young and learn quickly and I want you to progress more than you already have so I’m giving you a really important case. You’ll actually get to meet the said person affected, he’s … of high value so be considerate of your wording when talking to him. Alright thank you, here’s the case! Have a report to me by Friday” he offers and you nod happily. You take a seat opening up the material seeing the name of the claimer immediately.

Lance Stroll

You read through the facts, apparently he crashed his Aston Martin driving down the M1 to get to Silverstone into some sort of government van.

After analysing some of the data yourself, a knock comes on your office door from one of the younger interns.

“Erm, Y/N there’s two men in suits here to see you?” She asks rather than tells you, it wasn’t common for people to come in and out of the building due to the confidentiality of the work conducted here.

“Send them in please, but before you do ask them if they want anything. Tea, Coffee, Water” you smile and go back to reading another report from a police officer who was on the scene of the accident.

You watch as two men walk into your office space. One looking younger maybe the same age as you and one looking significantly older which you assumed was the dad.

“Good morning” you smile lightly before going back to some data on your computer. They took a seat, patiently waiting for you to address them.

Lawrence, who you’d just read about in the report who was indeed the father, cleared his throat as if to get your attention.

“Give me one minute Mr Stroll and I’ll be right with you” you smile, still nose in your computer.

“We’ve come all this way to the city centre to see you it would be appreciated if you didn’t waste our time” he huffs and even just from this reaction a bubbling of excitement started in you, just at the promise of actually seeing a client and talking to them in the flesh.

“I understand that, but I won’t be able to tell you much unless I see all the data” you say looking up at them through your glasses. This time you notice Lance and how he’s just sort of staring at you.

“Can I help you Mr Stroll?” You ask looking over him.

“No, I’m all good. Take your time” he smiles and you nod. In 5 minutes you believe you’ve combed through enough data to talk to them.

“This is awfully interesting I almost never get to see the people behind the claim” you smile happily and they both nod.

“Okay so so far from what I can see is there was a crash in your vintage Aston Martin that was for an event at Silverstone, the race track and that you got into a collision with a government van trailing a foreign national?” You ask.

“In short terms, yes … but” Lawrence tries to declare.

“And you weren’t present Mr Stroll” you say looking in the direction of the older man.

“No I wasn’t” he huffs out.

“Okay, then I will ask you to just step out my office while I get an account of the events from your son, if that’s alright with you. Just down the corridor there’s a waiting room there, help yourself to the food and drink in there” you smile hoping to butter him up a little to get him out.

“Alright” he says before taking his leave.

“Okay Mr Stroll lets…” you start but he interrupts you.

“Lance, please just call me Lance” he offers and you nod.

“Well Lance, it’s not … looking great” you start of slowly and he looks at you shocked.

“What do you mean? Your guys went into me?” He says raising his voice slightly and you give him a stern look that has him sinking into his seat.

“Don’t come into my office and raise your voice when I’m doing my best to help you!” You exclaim placing a pad in front of him.

“Sorry it’s just that my dad isn’t happy already that i totalled a car that was needed for race day” he sighs rubbing his temples.

“Ahhh so you’re an F1 driver. Or is it NASCAR because of the accent?” You ask and he looks shocked as if you were supposed to know who he was.

“Er F1” he offers and you nod.

“You any good?” You ask writing done some more notes as you watch the camera on the government vehicle as Lance’s car didn’t have one.

“Excuse me?” He chokes out and you couldn’t help but laugh a little.

“Well I mean im currently looking at your claims for a super car that you totalled and so I can’t help but ask if your any good” you tease and once he heard the tone he gets it and just rolls his eyes.

“Oh haha laugh it up” he says and you do.

“Im sorry but this is quite possibly the most fun I’ve ever had in this job. It’s rather boring most days so I’m just making the most of it” you smile and he smiles back.

“Okay I can see that they did in fact turn into you. And of course I’m here for the people. The issue is where your Canadian. I can pay out what the car was worth when you originally brought it, but 50,000 for the fact that it was an accident on our part” you say and he thinks for a moment.

“No” is all he says and you look over at him in shock.

“Sorry? What do you mean no, no is my final decision” you say crossing your arms.

“I would like to add something else to the 50,000 on top of the car value” he smiles and you nod, wondering what it could possibly be and admiring the boldness of his statement.

“Id like to take you out to dinner” he smirks and your head shoots up from your laptop.

“I- i cant do that… it’s not professional. I could get told off. I could loose my job.” you admit knowing that if people were to find out about your payout and think it was bad then they’d be asking questions to you.

“Oh come on it’s just dinner to say thank you for being so … helpful” he smiles leaning forward in his seat and you shake your head.

“Fine, dinner it is” you smile.

That was the start of something way bigger than just dinner.

y/user

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y/user: Work has been rather interesting lately 👀🏎️

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lance_stroll: thank you for having another look for me 👍🏼

-> y/user: 🫣you’re welcome Mr Stroll

-> lance_stroll: you’re making me feel old ☹️

user: is that whose car I think it is bestie?

-> y/user: it sure is 🏎️

user: need to catch up soon babe, Pret tomorrow morning?

-> y/user: sure thing!

user: Civil Service < Serving Cu*t 🥰

Instagram Story Caption:

Back in the Office wiv Shiv 🌸

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tammyfortis

10 months ago

Possessive Toto is mad at you 🥵😳🙏

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tammyfortis

2 months ago

Fantasy Island (gr63)

↳ A/N This is arguably one of my most favourite things I have written and it's incredibly special to me. I hope you enjoy <3

↳ Inspired By: Fantasy Island (1978 series/2021 series)

↳ Summary: A tropical paradise where your greatest fantasies come to life, no strings attached. Upon your arrival to the sunny weathered beaches, in the cloud like king size bed, you find your greatest fantasy waiting for you.

↳ Pairings: George Russell x Stranger(kind of?)!Reader (NO use of y/n)

↳ Word Count: 25.4k

↳ Warnings: 18+, smut, touches of magical realism, arguably infidelity but not really (because Fantasy Island is not 'reality'...or is it?), mentions of an unnamed girlfriend, oral sex (m and f receiving), spanking, leaving marks, dirty talk, praise, mirror on the ceiling, really steamy passionate romantic sex, public sex, shower sex, brief breeding kink, lotsss of "I love you", unprotected sex.

Through the small window of the plane, the picturesque tropical island was revealed, standing out from the crystal blue water with its sandy white beaches and lush green forests. It looked like a photoshopped sliver of paradise and as the biplane coasted down towards the water, you already felt the stresses start to ease from your shoulders.

A weekend on Fantasy Island. The place rumoured to allow your largest fantasies to come true for a few days, no strings attached. It knew what you needed better than you knew it yourself, so you were told. Once you left the island, life would return to how it always was but, for now, your focus was on rejuvenation and getting your mind off of everything.

With your suitcase in hand, you stepped out of the small plane and onto the wooden dock, feeling the warm tropical breeze ease your muscles and relax your body. You almost completely forgot why you craved to come there after only the first breath of salty sea air. The woman waiting for you at the end of the dock greeted you by name with a smile and a handshake, her airy white sundress rippling around her knees as you approached.

“Welcome to Fantasy Island.” she said, holding out her arms as if to show you the island right then and there.

You thanked her politely as you admired the bamboo beach huts and patted loungers just at the edge of the sand. You followed her to the red jeep that was parked a bit of a ways away from the dock and you sat in the passenger seat as she drove you farther into the island and towards the resort. She spoke to you about the island and how she had been gifted the job as operator from her father before her; it was a busy career to run the island and she lived alone to dedicate her life to it.

The island and the resort were all free for you to roam and she offered no cautions about the jungle or safety in the ocean, explaining how nothing was dangerous there. It felt all a bit surreal to you but your mind was focused on the spa that must be awaiting you at the resort. After a long and agonizing week - not to mention months - you felt that you were overdue for some quiet relaxing rejuvenation.

The host guided you into her open air office at the edge of the resort overlooking the main beach and sparkling waters. A golden retriever met you at the steps and you gave him a scratch behind the ear as you followed the personable young woman into her space. She gestured you into the seat on the opposite side of her desk before taking her own chair behind it.

“It seems you have had quite the tiring little while, is that so?” she asked, not wasting another minute on the small talk that had filled the drive over.

You smiled politely, “Yeah, you could say that.”

“So tell me, what can the island do for you?” she folded her hands together on the top of her desk.

“Well,” you cleared your throat, “I dunno really.”

“You must have come here with a purpose; this is Fantasy Island after all. What is your fantasy?”

Your heart seemed to beat harder in your chest and you glanced out towards the beach as if to buy yourself time. With a small breath, you finally spoke, “It’s silly to say it aloud.”

“Believe me, I have heard plenty of fantasies in my career here. Nothing will surprise me.”

You turned back to her, lingering on her understanding smile and kind eyes and you felt yourself drawn to open up to her, “I am in love.”

She nodded you on.

“I am in love with a guy who will not love me back. Who cannot love me back. Who...hardly knows I exist on this planet.” you started. It was hard to talk about and to reflect on your reality and she let you have a moment to piece together your thoughts. “These last months, and these last weeks especially, have been filled with me trying to accept that he is dating someone else. It’s literally all over social media and it’s hard to avoid and hard to look at. Really, really hard...and...exhausting. I just want to have a weekend where I can shut everything out and not think about how much that fact hurts me.”

The host smiled at you and nodded slowly in understanding as if she already knew all of what you were going to tell her, “So your fantasy is to forget that your love is unrequited?”

You sighed thankfully that she understood, “Yes, exactly.”

“Well Fantasy Island can certainly help you with that.” she assured you easily.

“If this works, I owe you my sanity.” you said.

The host smiled at you, “You will be pampered, relaxed, and rejuvenated by the end of your stay, I guarantee. You will feel like a whole new woman.”

She directed you to your room across the resort and with final thank yous and welcomes, you started off down the wooden boardwalk to your suite. Your suitcase clacked along the boards beneath your feet as you took your time to locate room 215, looping around the centre courtyard that was filled with brightly coloured flowers and waving palm trees. Finally, you reached your room and turned the handle without the need for a key. The moment you opened the door and stepped foot over the threshold, a refreshing soft gust of cool air tumbled over you as if you crossed through a cloud.

Compared to the heat of the tropical island you were on, the slight breeze of air conditioning was relieving and you sighed contentedly and set your suitcase against the wall. The bamboo flooring cushioned your sandaled feet as you stepped farther into the room and the floor to ceiling windows billowed the sheer white curtains into the light painted space. The sun that filled the blue sky lightened the room perfectly and you rounded the corner from the small entryway to take in the three-sided beach side views of your bedroom…only to find someone already sitting on your bed.

The white sheets were pulled tightly and cradled his body like the softest most irresistible cloud, matching the white fabric pants and half open button-up that he wore. He was staring out the open windows to the beach, his eyes just as perfect blue as the ocean with the slightest hints of green that pictures never did justice. He had one leg tucked up under him and the other hanging lazily off the end of the king size bed patiently.

Your breath froze in your chest when he finally turned his head to look at you from a few short metres away. His gaze sent shivers down your spine and you felt your heart squeeze in your chest in a feeling that you couldn’t place as yearning or anxiousness. A peaceful smile came to his soft lips and he lifted two filled champagne glasses from the small tray that rested with him on the soft bed.

He held one out to you, “Come here, gorgeous. I’ve been waiting for you.”

You stayed frozen in place for a moment, almost dizzyingly, staring at him in disbelief. Was this real? The man you had only dreamt of for months now sitting right across from you, beckoning you over with a glass of expensive champagne and that swoon worthy smile. You reached carefully to pinch your thigh to test if this really was a dream, only to find bare skin under your hand instead of your floral skirt you had worn on the plane. You looked down with a gasp, more than stunned to find yourself in a striking blue lingerie set and topped with a thin white satin robe left open around your shoulders and down just past your waist.

“Well? Don’t make me drink both of these on my own.”

You looked back over to the young man still sat on your bed, his outstretched hand gently swirling the bubbling gold liquid around in its flute. He nodded you over and you took a few cautious steps across the room towards him and took the glass from his hand. When your fingers brushed his, you shivered, the warmth of his skin feeling so real and so addicting and as your heart hammered in your chest, you sat down on the end of the bed beside him.

Your eyes stayed locked on his, still in near disbelief, and you reached out your free hand to brush over his cheek to make sure he was really truly there. When your palm caressed his face and he leaned into your touch sweetly, you let yourself breathe his name in awe, “George.”

“Yeah, darling. Was your flight okay?” he asked softly, taking your hand from his cheek and kissed your knuckles.

“Yeah.” you mumbled, fearing to blink as if he’d disappear from beside you in an instant.

“Good.” he laced his fingers with yours and lifted his glass to his lips with his other hand to take a sip.

You watched him quietly, mirroring his sip with your own glass, welcoming the fizz of the bubbling champagne that grazed your tongue and the warmth of his hand in yours on his lap. The sea air that breezed into the room ruffled his sandy brown hair and his gaze drifted past you to the beautiful beaches beyond the open windows.

“George,” you spoke his name softly, hesitantly, still wondering how on earth he was sitting beside you at a tropical island resort, “do you know who I am?”

He tore his gaze from the beach view to your face again and he smiled at you, giving your hand a squeeze, “Of course. What kind of question is that? You’re my girl.”

Your name fell from his lips like an irresistible melody, like the sweetest sound you had ever heard, and the way he smiled at you as he spoke it made your heart flutter. He took another sip of champagne and you let your eyes wander down his unbuttoned shirt that ruffled gently in the warm breeze through the open windows and the streaks of sunlight rose his light dusting of freckles over his nose and tops of his cheeks.

“It’s breathtaking here.” George spoke calmly, his fingers still resting lazily in yours, “I’m just looking forward to a perfect weekend vacation with you.”

“With me?” you couldn’t help but confirm.

“Yeah.” George chuckled lightly, gently taking his hand from yours to reach for the small tray still resting on the bed and he lifted a chocolate covered strawberry from the dessert plate. He held it out to you with a smile and fed you a small bite as he answered your question, “No one else I would even think of, sweetheart. You’re my one and only after all. This weekend is just for us.”

As you ate your bite of strawberry, he took the last bit for himself before setting the greenery back on the plate with the rest. You both sipped your drinks and you couldn’t help but reach out to touch him as you let the alcohol warm you, resting your hand against his chest to feel his heartbeat under your touch.

“I love you.” you breathed ever so quietly, testing the waters with the eight letters you had been dying to confess.

George raised his hand over yours and you could feel his heart race under your palm, staring into your eyes as he answered with an honest, “I love you too.”

Your heart fluttered at his words and the smile that came to your lips only had him smiling back at you. He took his hand from yours to dust his finger across your lips and down your neck and along the collar of your white silk robe.

“You look so beautiful today.”

Butterflies filled your stomach at his words and you stared back at him even if his eyes were on your chest. Having him simply looking at you was enough to make you blush. You replied easily, “So do you.”

“I’ve missed you.” George whispered, tracing your collarbones gently before sliding up the side of your neck. His touch left goosebumps rising across your skin at his slightest touch.

“I’ve missed you more than you know.” you admitted quietly.

His eyes raised from his fingers to your eyes and then, as he smiled adoringly, dropped his gaze to your lips. His stare alone could make shivers tear down your spine in the most addicting way and his large hand slid over your jaw to cradle the side of your face. The anticipation was nearly nauseating as his thumb brushed over your cheek and his eyes didn’t waver from your lips even as he licked his own. You wanted to kiss him more than anything, to feel his perfectly soft sculpted lips on yours enough to make your knees weak, and you had tried to imagine it for months but never expected to be face to face with him like this.

No words had to be spoken as you both leaned in and his hand on your face guided you to tilt your head slightly to the right and let his lips brush against yours. This first shared anticipatory breath was electrifying and, as his lips finally slotted with your own, the warmth of the tropical island air was nothing compared to the fire that burst in the depths of your stomach. You inhaled into it, savouring the taste of his lips on yours as his kiss froze motionlessly for a few seconds. When he leaned back from it and your lips parted with a soft smack, you couldn’t help but grab the front of his shirt and pull him back in for another kiss. You could feel him smile into it as your lips met again, sharing a few lingering kisses that tasted like expensive champagne from the glasses you each still held in your hand.

Your heart raced in your chest as your hand slid into the back of his hair and you nipped gently on his bottom lip. He let a pleasant hum fall between you, tilting his head a little more to deepen your kiss and part your lips with his own. The champagne and strawberries were forgotten about as you quenched your cravings through his tongue and soft lips, letting him lead into each kiss that made your stomach flutter with desire.

When a few more moments passed, he pulled back from you with one more tender kiss to your pouted lips and gave you a small smile as he took the champagne flute from your hand and set it back on the tray. Almost impatiently, you watched as he lifted the small tray from the sheets and leaned over to rest it safely on the bedside table, giving him a comfortable range of motion to lean in towards your lips again. You shared a few soft kisses before you both opened up to permit your tongues to join once more and you greedily held his face in your hands like he was your most prized possession.

George held himself up with one hand against the mattress as his other rested gently against the side of your neck, although you were too hung up on the gentle flexing of his jaw that moved smoothly along with each passionate kiss. The soft smacks of his lips on yours was addicting and you slid your hands down his neck and along his exposed chest as your breathing started to fall in time with his.

“Mm,” he pulled back ever so slightly and looked at you from under long lashes, “I love kissing you.”

Your cheeks flushed pink just as he leaned in for more, capturing your bottom lip between his and then your top and then nudged his tongue into your mouth. You felt as light as air as you pushed your mouth on his harder and opened up to let his tongue nudge strongly against yours. You could taste the sweetness of the strawberries and the sharpness of the alcohol in his mouth and each breath you shared just made it more addicting. You couldn’t get enough of him.

His hands traced the collar of your satin robe and you let him push it off your shoulders and to the bamboo flooring, leaving you in only the blue lingerie set that hugged your body perfectly. You felt on fire, drawn to him in every single way, and you tugged on the material of his white button-up to keep him close as your lips locked in messy passionate kisses.

But George was leaning back from you again despite the grip you had on his shirt and he shuffled onto the bed a little more and he curled his finger at you to call you over. With an eager smile, you crawled up the end of the bed and met him in the middle, resting on your hands and knees over his outstretched legs as you leaned in towards his lips again. His hands found your hips and he eased you down onto his thighs, making you flush pink behind strong kisses.

He left you with a few single kisses to your lips before meeting your eyes as his hands rubbed over your waist and along the thin garter belt that was wrapped around your middle. He was gorgeous and the way he looked at you made your stomach twist with eager butterflies, desperate to feel his lips on yours more and more.

“I want to make love to you.” George breathed, his words sending shivers down your arms and a flutter between your legs, “Right here with this beautiful view of the ocean and no one to disturb us all weekend.”

“All weekend?” you chuckled softly.

“Yeah.” George whispered, soaking up your body with his hands skimming over each curve of your skin and his lips trailed slow kisses down your neck. “I want to make love to you all weekend…never leave…keep you right here with me.”

You giggled shyly, tangling your fingers in the back of his hair as his lips blessed your skin, “Maybe we should start with an hour and see where it takes us.”

George hummed against your skin, leaving wet kisses over your collarbones and across your shoulder, “And then order room service.”

“Alright.” you agreed shyly.

“Okay.” George smiled at you on his lap and he leaned in to kiss your lips once more.

Between delicious slow kisses, you spoke quietly, “Are you sure?”

George chuckled softly against your lips, “God, baby, there’s nothing I’d rather do.”

Your heart skipped a beat in your chest and your whole body flushed with an ache for him, raising your hands to the side of his neck as you kissed him strongly a few more times.

He pulled back slightly again, rubbing his hands up and down your thighs, “Are you sure? You seem so hesitant today, sweetheart.”

You shook your head quickly in reassurance and pulled his lips on yours for a few more quick kisses, “I’m so sure. All I want is to make love with you…I’ve been waiting so long.”

George nipped at your bottom lip through his smile and slid his hands up your back with a peaceful inhale as his lips slotted with yours again. He sat up straighter so your chests were pressed up together and you let your tongue push against his hungrily, letting yourself fall under the bliss of quenched thirst little by little.

The sounds of the waves on the sand rushed faintly through the open windows and the chirping of wildlife rustled through the trees around the resort but you were much more focused on the soft sounds and gentle breaths that George made behind your kisses. Your hands slid down his chest again and started to unbutton the rest of his white shirt slowly. He broke your kiss to watch you for a moment, how your fingers worked the small buttons ever so gently and ever so slowly, really trying to savour every moment. His eyes lingered on your face next, hands held to your hips, not tearing his gaze away even when you pushed open his button-up shirt to reveal his toned chest and abs. Your fingers drank him up in gentle touches and you noticed small shivers rising over his skin as you glided your fingertips down between his pecs and over the chiseled dips of his abs.

George raised his hand up to glide his fingers over your jaw, “C’mere.”

He gently guided your chin up to lean in and kiss your lips, sharing slow open mouthed kisses that were barely heard behind the tropical summer breeze. You left your hand against his stomach and let your other tangle in the back of his hair, holding him close to prevent his lips from ever leaving yours. In a bit of excited bravery, you moved your kisses along his smooth jaw and down his neck in slow savouring movements to make him shiver, tasting the salty sea air on his skin.

George hummed pleasantly, tilting his head to the side slightly to give you room along his neck and you left wet kisses over his warm skin and down to the dip of his shoulder where his open shirt rested.

“Can I leave marks?” you whispered between gentle kisses.

“Mhm.” George agreed easily, sliding his fingers in the back of your hair. “As much as you want.”

You smiled giddily against his skin and moved back up right under his jaw, peppering soft kisses there until his head dropped back a little more. His one hand fell behind him to prop himself up in the middle of the bed and his other stayed in your hair, focusing on the feeling of your lips on his skin until you found your spot and sucked.

George’s soft shaky sigh was infused with an ever so quiet groan and you smiled into it, tugging gently at his skin with your teeth before easing the forming bruise with a solid lick. You repeated the same routine twice more until his breathing was falling heavier and his hand was tightening in your hair to pull your lips up to his again.

“You’re gorgeous.” you whispered into his mouth between lazy kisses. “You’re so fucking beautiful.”

“I love you.” George breathed.

“Oh my gosh, I love you.” you replied easily, your voice struggling to not waver with emotion and you covered it up with another hungry kiss.

You shifted on his lap to kiss along his neck again and down his chest, soaking up each inch of his body like it was heaven sent. George was breathing shallowly, watching you kiss down his tanned torso and sneak a lick over his nipples before moving farther and his hand in your hair only helped guide you down.

Your lips trailed wet open mouthed kisses between his abs, feeling the stiff muscle under your fingers in the wake of your mouth before shuffling back on his lap a little more. You brushed over the waistband of his thin white slacks and you could already see him tenting the fabric from underneath. He gasped lightly when you dusted your fingers over his growing erection and when you glanced up at him for permission he nodded you on eagerly. He shifted obediently on the mattress as you untied his pants and shuffled them down slightly as you leaned in to press your lips against his stomach again. Your eyes met as you looked up at him for a brief moment, trailing slow teasing kisses down his abs and eagerly followed the line of hair that led you from his navel and down to his pelvis.

“Oh my gosh, baby.” George breathed, watching carefully as you tugged his pants down his thighs.

He wasn’t wearing any underwear and you bit your lip eagerly as his dick was let free, eyeing him up for all his worth as he stood tall right in front of your face. You shoved his pants down the rest of the way and he nudged them off his ankle and to the floor and tugged his shirt open wider as you situated yourself between his legs. Your whole body tingled with desire as you draped your hair over one shoulder and leaned down to his lap.

George inhaled sharply as you let your tongue lick over the head of his dick and his mouth fell open with a soft groan as you wrapped your lips around him and sucked softly. He made your mouth water in the most addicting way and the way he fit in your mouth was better than you ever imagined in your dreams. You moaned around him before pulling back with a small suction to leave a few wet kisses to the tip. Your eyes raised to his again as your tongue teased over the slit and rubbed along the underside of his tip and he looked like a true angel when his eyes fluttered closed and head fell back with a steady moan.

“That’s so good.” George mumbled, lazily bunching your hair back from your face to hold back as you went down on him. He leaned on one hand against the mattress again, staring down at you as you wrapped your fingers around the length of his cock and gave him a few testing strokes enough to urge him to bite down on his bottom lip.

You were nearly drooling down your chin at the sight of him so it was no surprise when you didn’t wait long to ease him into your mouth. Your tongue led the way, tracing each curve and gentle vein as he filled your mouth and your hand. George’s soft shaky hum had you starting to stroke him off in steady movements, letting your hand and your mouth work together around his thick length. He didn’t pressure you at all but you soon pushed your mouth down deeper and choked yourself quietly on him on your own free will.

“F-Fuck, darling.” George whimpered, breathing heavily as his head dropped backwards. “Feels so good.”

You gave him a small moan of your own as you bobbed your head a little faster around him, muffling the sounds of your wet gags as he took up your mouth. Your spit was trickling down from your lips and slicked up his dick and the grip your hand had on the base, only making the whole situation wetter. It was blissfully perfect as you laid on your stomach between his spread legs and sucked him off in savouring steady motions with the warm ocean breeze ruffling into the room through the open windows and white sheer curtains.

He tasted so good in your mouth - arguably better than the expensive champagne and chocolate covered strawberries - and you hollowed your cheeks to really taste the essence of him and the hint of salty precum that was oozing from his swollen tip. You sped up a little more, bobbing your head in long messy motions in time with your hand until each stroke grazed the back of your throat and your soft muffled wet gags had George’s hand tightening in your hair.

“Oh- That’s it, darling. That’s it, gorgeous. Don’t stop.” George panted out, staring down his body to you as you kept your pace.

The pet names made you melt and they sent your racing heart soaring, not to mention the pretty moans that fell from his throat that sounded like an angelic symphony all on their own. You shifted your hands to his thighs and eased them back towards his chest slightly, even though he was still propped up sitting. George slouched back onto his forearm while leaving his other hand still in your hair, his legs bent and pushed back slightly to give you room to suck him off. You dropped your hand down to his balls and rolled them gently in your hand, just enough to have him groaning loudly as his eyebrows furrowed in bliss. But your mouth kept working around him, taking every inch you could time and time again even as you choked yourself on him a little.

“Don’t stop.” George repeated breathily, his voice a little strained, “Please, baby, don’t stop. Shit.”

You gave him a small moan in content as you kept going, eyes raising to his face even as his hand started to move you a little harder down on him by your hair. You didn’t mind as you wanted to please him and worship him the best you could so you took it gladly. His moans turned into whimpers and you could feel his thighs starting to clench as his hips habitually rolled up against your face and pushed himself deeper still.

You gagged around him loudly but only sped up more despite his quick, “Sorry, love.”

Without a break for even a single word, you kept going, giving him nice sloppy head and fondling his balls just enough to have him shuttering underneath you. George shifted again on the mattress and you used your free hand to grip his hip and hold him in place, glancing up through your lashes as his head lolled to the side and he licked his lips before biting them through his furrowed expression.

He hummed lowly again, his hips trying to move in time with you but you held him down as he whimpered, “Oh, sweetheart, I’m gonna cum. Please. You’re gonna make me cum, baby.”

You kept going, keeping him perfectly pleasured by hands and mouth and your moans only sent vibrations down his whole length and he exhaled deeply. You could feel his dick start to twitch in your mouth and you glanced up at his face as he started right back at you with a hazy lust over his expression, his cheeks tinted pink and his jaw clenched through a shaky whimper.

With a few more quick sloppy bobs of your head, his thighs and his balls were tensing and in a mere second, his head was falling back with a beautiful trembling, “Oh-“

George’s fingers clutched the sheets and your hair as he came, his dick pulsing in your mouth in time with each steady spurt and you raised your hand from his thigh to jerk him off right down your throat. You sputtered around him a little but never dreamt of complaining as he groaned and whimpered and filled your mouth with the warm salty cream that you shamelessly dreamt about tasting.

He fell into beautiful soft moans as he finished, head lolled to the side with dreamy bats of his eyelashes and his hand in your hair slipped down to caress your face as you pulled off of him with a soft slurp. You kissed over his thighs and hips and then along that thin line of hair that led you right back up to his torso. George’s chest was heaving and he gave you a soft smile as you leaned in to kiss him, swallowing up his pleased hums into your mouth as your tongues pushed messily together and lips smacked ungracefully.

George shifted up from his forearm to his hand against the mattress and slid his other arm around your waist to hold you close, mumbling between kisses, “You’re so good, baby. Mm, I love you so much.”

“I love you more.” you answered easily, already falling into more of a comfortable state of mind after the initial shock that the island brought you.

George shifted underneath you and carefully flipped you over on the white down-filled sheets of the king size bed, making sure you fell gently in the cradle of his arms. His lips stayed on yours for a moment longer before he moved down your neck, following the same path you took although he seemed to know your most sensitive spots with near ease. His lips under your ear had you shuttering, your arms wrapping around his back to cling onto the material of his white shirt as your legs slotted together.

This was heaven, you were sure. Only a mere hour ago you were escaping to this island broken hearted and now, the man of your dreams was wrapped up in bed with you overlooking a picturesque view of the ocean. George’s lips suckled on your neck, the sensation shooting shivers down your spine and you clung onto him tighter. He moaned softly as your hips habitually rutted against his bare thigh and he worked to ease the hickey he left on your skin with a warm lick before shifting down to the dip of your shoulder to make another.

The tropical breeze cooled his saliva left behind on your neck by his wet kisses and little licks and you felt more in tune with your body than ever by how it was reacting to even the slightest touch. The sun warmed you both and you could feel how its rays soaked the material of George’s white button-up and sparkled in his eyes when he glanced up at you. You ran your hand through his sandy brown hair and he eased farther down your body to leave another hickey on your collarbone and then finally reached your chest.

“You look so beautiful, I don’t wanna take this off you.” George said softly as he traced the curve of the lingerie bra you wore as it hugged your breasts and contrasted its perfect blue against your skin.

You shared a small smile with him as he shifted down your body, only stopping to suck a hickey into the flesh of your breast before moving down your stomach in wet kisses. Your head finally dropped back from staring at him intently, letting the cloud-like pillow catch your fall as George’s hands soaked up your hips and he covered you in slow meaningful kisses.

The image staring back at you from the ceiling was a surprise but you soon clued into the fact that it was your own reflection staring back at you. It showed everything in a whole new angle and you felt your insides clench at the sight of George, naked except for his open white shirt, laying between your legs.

He snapped the band of your garter belt gently at your waist and you tore your eyes from the mirror on the ceiling to his sweet face.

“Let me?” he asked.

You nodded him on and shuffled onto your elbows as he unclipped the straps from the garters and gently pulled the belt off your hips. He left the strip of lace around each of your thighs and sat back on his knees to pull the belt down your legs, before pausing to kiss your shin and your knee and your thigh as he lowered your legs back down to the bed. You left them bent and spread as he settled between them to press a kiss to the front of your panties.

Still covered, you didn’t feel too exposed to him as you laid back on your forearms and watched him kiss slowly right down between your legs. The gentle touch had you taking your bottom lip between your teeth, watching how he left strong lingering open mouthed kisses right over your clothed clit, trying to play it off casually. Your heart was hammering in your chest and you forced yourself to take a deep calming breath of fresh salty ocean air to stop from getting too in your head as George kissed lower.

Over your thin panties, George dipped out his tongue slightly between meaningful kisses and you felt his heavy warm sigh against your skin between a deep impatient, “Mmmm.”

His lips found your inner thigh and he sucked a hickey into your flesh before mirroring it on the other side and then trailed kisses slowly down your legs as he sat back on his knees again. George’s fingers linked in the sides of your panties and pulled them down too, his eyes drinking you up even as you tried to cover yourself with your hand shyly and he dropped your underwear to the ground too.

“Mm mm.” George scolded sweetly with a hum as he gently pushed your hands away, “Don’t hide from me, gorgeous. Let me see you.”

“George.” you breathed nervously.

“Don’t be shy, baby, I got you.” George whispered, leaning back down to kiss your hips and the dip where your pelvis met your legs. “Trust me.”

“Yeah.” you agreed easily, shifting your hand into his hair instead as he nudged your legs open wider.

It felt like you had known him for a lifetime despite the fact that it had only been short of an hour since you laid eyes on him for the first time. The trust came surprisingly easy that way and eager fuzzy warmth spread through your chest as he trailed teasing slow kisses closer and closer to your cunt.

You hadn’t realized how horny you were for more of him until that moment as his agonizing slow kisses over your flushed skin caused your insides to clench pleadingly and a soft impatient whimper fell from your throat. George’s arms looped around your thighs and pulled your legs over his shoulders as he licked his lips and admired your body laid out for him.

Almost shamefully, you had dreamt of that very moment for months but only ever figured it was to happen in your imagination. Now, laying naked on a tropical king size bed, you felt more blessed by the sight of George settling between your legs than the white sand beaches and perfect ocean view just beyond the open windows of the hotel room.

“So perfect.” George whispered. “So beautiful.”

He glanced up at your face as he let a thick string of spit slip down from his lips and fall onto your throbbing cunt, the simple action making you gasp softly, only doing so again, louder, as his mouth followed suit. He gave you wet open mouthed kisses right down your folds as his hands found a nice grip around your thighs, keeping your legs open to let him have his way with you.

“Oh my God.” you breathed out, letting your eyes raise up to the mirror on the ceiling to watch him at another angle. Your mouth fell open as his tongue lapped at your dripping arousal and swirled it and his spit around a bit more. “George.”

He hummed softly for you to feel the vibrations from his lips as he licked and sucked greedily over your folds, smearing your wetness over his mouth. You held your hand in his soft brown hair, watching him intently through the mirror as his head worked between your legs. With only the slightest touch, he could make you feel so damn good. You only craved more.

George slid his tongue right up between your lips and let out a dreamy sigh before pushing it inside you. Your legs flinched and he held them open and in place as he fucked you with his tongue and his nose nearly brushed your aching clit.

“Oh God.” you whimpered, “Fuck, baby-“

George flicked his tongue faster inside you, moaning greedily into your body as your hips rutted against his face. But then he pulled back suddenly, eyes raising to your face even as you stared up at the mirror reflection on the ceiling, and he slowed right down, dragging his tongue in calculated patterns between your folds. You spread your legs a little wider and George only grinned as he shifted along with you and held your legs back closer towards your chest in two large hands.

It didn’t take you long to feel his precise motions of his tongue were actually spelling out his name letter by letter, first and last, over and over. He was claiming you as his in the quietest, filthiest, most discreet way; a way for just the two of you to know. He was making you drip but you craved more.

You tugged at his hair with one hand and reached down to spread yourself open between two fingers with your other. George chuckled against you, moving to wet open mouthed kisses over your cunt before taking his hand from your thigh to push your fingers away and take over himself.

He kissed over your clit, keeping his movements slow and gentle as his swollen lips pressed like heaven against your aching core. You were breathing hard in pleading anticipation, staring down your body again to watch his tongue drop out to press down against your clit. Your sharp gasp had him smiling proudly, his eyes locked on yours for a moment as he kept his tongue pressed down strongly in place.

“Please.” you breathed out, trying to rock your hips to get him to move but he held you in place by your waist. You tugged at his hair, whining pleadingly, “George, baby, please-“

George pulled back with a wet slurp and he licked his lips before bringing his right hand up and slid two fingers in his mouth. You exhaled deeply in anticipation, watching as he slicked up his middle and ring finger in spit with his eyes locked on yours. His left arm slid around your lower stomach to hold you down as his right hand slid down between your folds to collect more of your wetness around them.

Your feet were resting against his shoulders as you kept your legs bent back to give him room and you couldn’t tear your eyes away from your spread legs as he rubbed his fingers through your arousal until you could hear the thick sound of wetness. George rubbed his fingers between your folds a bit stronger, swirling them around your entrance teasingly, watching how your muscles cleaned for him.

“Okay, gorgeous,” George whispered before slowly easing his middle finger inside you, “just relax.”

You hummed peacefully, letting your head fall back gently against the pillows as he pushed his single finger all the way into you. He groaned softly at the gentle squeeze of your body and started easing it out and then back in, watching how your arousal clung to his skin with each gentle thrust.

“That’s it.” George breathed, landing a kiss to your inner thigh as his finger worked slowly back and forth and you stayed perfectly still for him.

But then he was adding his second finger and you gripped tighter in his hair, whimpering shakily as the slight stretch pushed across your muscles. Right away, his tongue dropped down to your clit, easing the slight discomfort with reassuring licks that made your walls clench around his fingers.

“More.” you pleaded softly, “Please, baby. Please, Georgie.”

“I got you, sweetheart.” George hushed you gently.

He started to pump his fingers into you slowly and, at the same time, licked strongly over your clit. His mouth was so warm and his fingers were so slender that you couldn’t even form words for a moment, simply staring up into the mirror with an open mouth as he found home between your bent legs. The sight of your hand in his hair felt surreal enough as it was and as his tongue flicked faster over your core, you couldn’t help but grip tighter to the strands with a soft groan.

George’s fingers nudged themselves deeper and curled upwards in steady strokes, caressing you from the inside out as his mouth only stimulated you more at your clit. His left arm that was tucked under your thigh and across your abdomen held you down for him and he helped himself to your body with pride. Your legs slipped back over his shoulders as his fingers fucked into you faster and the pleasure had you almost folding into yourself, legs wrapping around his head as your fingers tugged at his hair and shaky moans fell from your lips.

George basked in it, humming contentedly against your most sensitive spot as he kept his steady pace. Your legs were nearly clutching his head between your thighs but he didn’t falter, fingering you in rapid flicks as his tongue swirled messily over your clit, and the room started to fill with your moans and gasps growing louder and louder. You couldn’t contain yourself - he felt far too good and nothing like you had ever imagined before - and despite your pleasurable sounds that were taken by the island breeze, you didn’t dare to stop.

“George.” you cried out to the ceiling, ankles linking behind his shoulder blades as you nearly tugged him right into your body. With one hand in his hair, your other grabbed the material of his white shirt over his shoulder to pull on too, somehow desperate to have him impossibly closer as your toes curled. “George.” your head tossed back against the white sheets as your back tried to arch off the bed in overwhelming bliss that tightened in your stomach. You stared up into the mirror to watch him between your legs as your hips pushed up against his mouth and his fingers moved at their quick consistent pace while his mouth moaned hungrily around your clit. You swore you were seeing stars as he brought you close and with a few more shallow pants and whimpers, your mouth was falling open with a soft cry of, “O-Oh- George-“

He drank you up with ease, pulling his fingers out to rub at your clit through your orgasm so his tongue could taste every sweet drop that pooled out of you. He groaned pleasantly, slurping and sucking hungrily at your pussy as your legs trembled and your body shuttered with pleasure. You pulled at his hair and his shirt, messing his hair and crinkling the fabric as your eyes rested shut and you basked in the warm waves of beautiful pleasure that washed over you with the tropical breeze.

George shifted out from the lock of your ankles and you let him shuffle up your body between your spread legs to kiss your swollen lips. Right away, his tongue met yours in sloppy blissful harmony and at the taste of yourself in his mouth, you pushed your head up to kiss him harder. He moaned softly into it, letting his hand cradle your jaw for a moment as he licked his way through your mouth before tugging at your bottom lip with his teeth.

When he pulled back again, you huffed in protest, arms draping lazily over your head as you stared at him longingly. George moved gently but persistently as he sat back on his knees between your spread legs and your eyes dropped to his hand that wrapped around his dick and he stroked it a few times, just enough to show off how hard he was again. You habitually pushed your thighs together tightly as you watched him touch himself but mere seconds later, he was patting his thighs.

“Come here, sweetheart.”

The gentle instruction could have melted you and as you moved to sit up, George shuffled closer to the middle of the king size bed on his knees. He held out his hands to you to help you scoot forward and up onto his thighs and you couldn’t help but let your lips find his neck again as you pushed off his unbuttoned shirt from his shoulders.

George caressed your hips, your body so close to his you could feel his dick pressed up between your legs to rub against your clit when you moved. You groaned against his neck as your hips rutted lazily against his just to feel the hard shaft of his cock rubbing blissfully against your sensitive core.

“God, you’re so pretty.” George mumbled as his hands soaked you up greedily. “You ready, baby?”

“Please.” you agreed easily.

“No condom,” he whispered to you as you shuffled up onto your feet on either side of him and he spread his knees slightly, “because I know how much you love to take it raw.”

“Yeah.” you breathed into his neck as your arms wrapped around his shoulders, speaking before you could really think about it, “Put a baby in me.”

George chuckled softly as his hands groped your ass and you settled teasingly on the head of his dick and lingered there a moment to feel the anticipation of what was about to happen for one more moment. You had waited so long. He left a few wet kisses on your neck and lifted his lips up to your ear to whisper, “As you wish.”

His large hands helped to guide you down on his dick, staring up at your face to watch how the strong stretch to your muscles made your expression tighten as you sank down on him. Regardless of the slight pain, you focused on the fact that you could feel every curve and every vein on his thick cock as your body sheathed him perfectly. You could feel yourself salivating as you only got him deeper and deeper, staring into his lustful blue eyes in the light of the afternoon sunshine that danced in through the wide open windows and his hands cradled your body carefully and lovingly. George was biting his lip strongly, his eyes locked on yours despite the quiet deep groans that fell from his chest as you squeezed around him so tightly.

You finally bottomed out, ass pressed against the tops of his spread thighs, and you were nearly sure he was at your cervix. You let out a shaky sigh and held your hands snugly on his shoulders to steady yourself to ease back up his length a little and then drop back down. George hissed softly at the sudden motion but gladly followed your small bounces with his hands on your waist, groaning as he leaned into your chest to kiss over your lace clad breasts that bounced gently in his face.

“Fuck, darling, you feel so good.” George whispered against your skin, his breathing heavy already and only falling weaker as he lazily started meeting your halfway with little thrusts.

“Shit!” you squeaked softly, sliding your hands from his shoulders to wrap your arms around his neck as your lips dipped down to find his.

George moaned against your mouth, easing you up and down by his hands as his hips kept soft thrusts in time with it and you held yourself steady on your feet against the mattress and moved with him. You kissed sloppily for a few seconds before having to pull back to breathe and your head fell back with a shaky sigh. George went for your neck, kissing and sucking over your skin as you stared up at the ceiling mirror above you and followed each of your gentle bounces and how he moved right with you.

“You’re so fucking wet, sweetheart.” George said against your neck, “You take my cock so well, my love.”

His dirty words had you moaning for more, trying to bounce on him faster. George shushed you softly and stopped you completely so you were placed right down on his lap, and he tucked your legs around his waist before shifting off his knees to sit against the sheets. He draped his legs out beneath you and wrapped his arms around your body as well and squeezed you close to feel more of him. No instructions needed to be shared as you wrapped your arms around his head and nuzzled into his neck and started grinding right down on him in strong circles.

“Oh, good girl.” George panted. “Oh, fuck, baby, that’s my good girl.”

“You’re so big.” you whined against his ear as your right hand tangled in the back of his hair and your grinding turned into messy little bounces. “F-Fuck, baby, I can feel you so deep-“

“You’re so perfect. You’re so fucking perfect, darling. C’mere.” George leaned his head back slightly to find your lips and you whimpered pleasantly into the off centered kiss before your tongues met and led you into deep passionate lazy kisses.

With cheeks flushed pink, you felt as though you had reached the peak of life’s blissful offerings right there, that nothing on earth could be this incredible. The taste of his lips, the heat of his touch, the steady stretch he pushed so deep inside you; it was heavenly. Sitting entangled together in the middle of the king size bed was where you had always dreamt to be, and your eyes fluttered closed as his lips found your neck and you ground down on him steadily. You wanted to feel everything and to bask in each second that passed because who knew how long you would have him to yourself. You wanted him forever, to never leave, to fit together as one until the end of time. You couldn’t think of letting him go. Not after this.

Your thoughts seemed to spiral and your hips slowed down on him until you were barely moving, simply clutching onto him and staring into space against his neck. George sensed your change and slid his hands up your hips and to your face, cradling your cheeks in his hands to bring your lips to his for a few tender kisses.

“I love you.” he whispered.

“I love you.” you replied just as quietly.

“You are my everything.” George breathed, his lips brushing yours as he spoke so closely. “You are the love of my life.”

“George.” you said bashfully, trying to hide the blush of your cheeks that he kissed over.

“I mean it,” he whispered against your ear, “I love you.”

It was as if those three words sparked an eternal flame in your stomach, soaring up through your heart and your chest and through your cheeks and right down to where he was tucked deeply inside you. You had him. All of him. For an afternoon, for a weekend, and what felt like was to be a lifetime. You shivered in his arms, held by him right up to his chest until you felt completely encompassed and the warm ocean air wafted through the billowing sheer curtains and wrapped around the both of you like a ribbon to tie you together for the rest of time. It felt so easy with him, there, like that, and you slid your hands out of his hair and down his jawline, keeping your eyes on his.

“I love you, my sunshine.” you breathed, caressing his cheeks with your thumbs before leaning down to kiss him again.

George locked your bottom lip between his two, savouring your few kisses between gentle wet smacks of parting and breaths of meeting, and secured his arms around your body. He lifted you up slightly and you clung onto him, focussing on his lips on yours as you wrapped your legs around his waist and he gently laid you down onto the fluffy white sheets. He pushed deeper into you, urging your head back against the pillow and you broke your kiss with a soft gasp, staring up into his eyes as he repeated that action, easing into you again so you could feel every inch of him.

“There.” he cooed, pushing in deep again. “Good?”

You nodded, “So good.”

“Okay.” George smiled softly and leaned down to kiss you.

You let your lips lock with his, arms raising to drape around his shoulders as he thrusted steadily into you. He was nearly pulling out all the way before pushing back in deep but he still managed to kiss you right through it, sharing heavy breaths and soft moans between your lips. With your hands on his bare back, you could feel his muscles tensing and moving along with him and you felt how the sun kissed glow of his skin under your fingertips was soft with touches from

paradise. George dropped his head to your neck with his forearms rested on either side of you and moved his hips into yours in intoxicating curling thrusts that tingled every single nerve in your body.

The reflection in the spotless mirror above you only made your body flush hot in desire as you stared up at it from over George’s shoulder. You could see every inch of his bare skin that way and could follow your hands as you soaked up his body down his back and to his thighs, pulling him in with hands and ankles linked behind his back. With each deep curling thrust into you he was groaning against your ear, filling your soul with the bliss of his pleasure that you were bringing him. It made you crave more of him; having him on top of you and inside you wasn’t enough anymore.

Your hands pressed into the muscles of his back like he was moldable sand and your linked ankles pressed the heels of your feet into his bum to pull him deeper with each rock of his hips. Your teeth had trapped your bottom lip and you stared up into the mirror to watch him have you right in the centre of the king size bed. He smelt like the ocean, like the salty fresh air, like freedom.

“More.” you whispered before you could think. “I want more of you.”

George hummed against your neck and left a fleeting kiss under your ear, “Hang on, sweetheart.”

You reached for him as he sat back from you on his knees and pulled your legs out from around his waist. He lifted them up to his shoulders and sent you a small smile as he rested one hand down gently on your lower stomach and pushed his hips into yours again. He could get so much deeper that way and your eyes nearly rolled back in your head when he nudged against your innermost muscles.

“Better?” George asked softly.

The afternoon tropical sun that came in through the large open windows glinted against his abs and the muscles of his torso in the thin sheen of sweat that was forming. His sandy brown hair was ruffled messily on top of his head and falling over his forehead as he stared down at you with blue eyes like the ocean. They sparkled.

“Yeah.” you answered, sliding your hands up his arms.

George leaned back down over you and your ankles linked together behind his neck as your eyes met and he thrusted slowly into you again. You could see him slightly clench his jaw as he sheathed inside you all the way and his soft groan urged your hands to hold tighter to his biceps. He found his pace again with deep curling thrusts that had your eyes fluttering closed and your teeth to sink into your bottom lip with a pleased whimper.

“Gonna go faster, darling.” George whispered.

“Please.” you agreed with ease.

His hands gripped tighter to the sheets on either side of you to ground himself slightly as he sped up, pulling back to thrust into you faster and used the slight spring in the mattress to his benefit.

“Yeah.” you sobbed out without thinking, letting your gaze drift past him again to the mirror.

You could feel his warm breath and his soft grunts in time with his thrusts against your cheeks, but you didn’t tear your eyes from the sight of him in the reflection above you down to your legs hooked over his shoulders. He kept pulling back to push down into you again and again, focusing harder rather than curling because having you bent so much already had him teasing your g-spot. You were waiting for it, your breath constantly freezing in anticipation in your chest, and you looked back at his face with hands clung onto his arms. He kept your eye contact, sharing breaths as he shifted slightly higher and tried a bit of a newer angle to watch how your mouth dropped open slightly.

“Right there?” George asked with a soft chuckle.

“Uh huh. Right there.” you nodded quickly.

“Okay, baby. I got it.” George whispered, holding himself up on his hands beside your head as he pulled out of you just long enough to shove back in.

“Oh God.” you cried out.

“Tell me if it’s too much.” George breathed.

You only shook your head as he continued, fucking down into you in quick thrusts to hit that perfect spot inside you each time. As he got harder, the faint crash of waves on sand from the beaches were hidden behind the steady slap of his skin on yours and your breaths mixing between shared soft grunts and moans. Your hands moved from his biceps to his waist and you followed each of his messy movements eagerly, savouring each delicious thrust as you tried to pull him impossibly deeper.

“Mmm, you feel so good.” George mumbled. “Are you close?”

You couldn’t deny the lust in his voice that only helped his perfect strokes to make you near dizzy and you could only nod out a shaky, “Mhm.”

“Yeah?” he taunted breathlessly, his accent thick with lust, “I want to make you cum, baby. I want to feel your pretty pussy cum for me.”

“George.” you whimpered at his words.

He only worked harder, keeping that consistent pace that had your toes curling and your nails digging into his back. He wouldn’t stop staring at you, even when your face screwed up in pleasure and your pleading moans fell from your lips.

“Feel me.” George whispered. “Feel how deep I am…how good it feels…feel my body on top of you.”

“George.” you cried shakily.

“How much I love you.”

“Oh my God-“ your voice was wavering as you felt your stomach tighten and your muscles clench down on him.

“That’s it, gorgeous.” George praised, not hesitating for a moment through his consistent pace and perfect angle. “Fuck, you look so pretty. Shit, baby, I wanna put all my love into you…always.”

“Please, George, please, baby-“ you cried out shakily.

He groaned lowly, eyebrows furrowing in perfect pleasure, his skin slapping filthily with yours until you could feel him twitch slightly inside you. He bit his lip strongly, letting you scratch up his back in your efforts to cling onto something.

“Cum with me, darling.” George panted. “On 3…okay?”

Your pleading whimper was agreement enough.

George couldn’t help but thrust into you a little faster, “Okay, gorgeous. 3…”

You stared up at him, focussed on nothing else in the world but the addicting fullness he could give you and the raw pleasure that ripped through your body. He was a wonder on top of you and you slid one hand to the back of his neck.

“2…”

It was hard to hold back but for him you would do anything, especially as he stared into your eyes under those long lashes and wisps of brown hair. You didn’t even need to touch yourself to feel close, already wanting to let go even if he was making you hold it for a few seconds longer.

“1…”

George barely caught a breath and didn’t even wait a full count before rushing out a, “Now.”

You didn’t need any other instruction; that simple word was enough to send you over the edge. Your right hand flew to his hair to have something substantial to grab onto as you came and he shoved right into you and held it there for a few seconds as your muscles squeezed down on him. George’s head tossed back slightly as he let a loud moan fall from his throat and you felt the first spurt release inside you. You whimpered pitchily, eyes screwed shut and back arching blissfully off the perfect white sheets. George easily slid his arm under your waist and pulled back just enough to push nice and deep inside you again as he whimpered and groaned and filled you up with warm shots of cum.

It was heavenly, especially feeling how he pulsed inside your tight muscles with each burst, and his face of pleasure was nothing short of perfection. You cried his name blissfully, not caring if any strangers could hear you through the open windows from the beach, and your moans were sung through the summer breeze. You clung onto him as he held you close, leaning up slightly to swallow his pleasant moans with your lips and you kissed lazily for a few moments as the intensity of your orgasms subsided.

Both of you pulled back from your kiss at the same time to breathe, sharing soft smiles as George carefully let your legs rest down against the bed. He slid out of you and reached a hand down to soothe your sensitive wet body with gentle touches as he shuffled onto the sheets beside you. You left your legs spread lazily and let your eyes linger on his face while he rubbed his fingers softly over your folds and finally down your thigh, smearing the mix of your cum over your flushed skin and linked his finger in the lace band of your garter. With a pleasant hum, you leaned in towards him and kissed his lips softly, smiling into it as he melted against your touch and kissed you back.

His hand raised to your chin, holding you there as you shared lingering breathless kisses before he left one more to your nose in conclusion. With a tired sigh, he laid flat beside you and you both stared up into the mirror above as you steadied your breathing and tried to compose yourself over what just happened.

George seemed to read your mind as he broke your silence, “That was incredible.”

“Yeah.” you chuckled softly. “That was...amazing.”

George leaned in to press a kiss to your cheek before he was shuffling the white sheets up around your bodies to keep somewhat decent with the wide open windows and ocean breeze that left you exposed. You moved carefully with him as he draped his arm around your shoulders and you cuddled into his side while sharing a down-filled pillow. Your arm tucked around his middle and you slid your fingers over his abs and rested your hand against his chest, smiling to yourself at the feeling of his strong heartbeat under your palm. He kissed your forehead and brushed his thumb over your bare shoulder lazily, letting his eyes close with his cheek against your head as if ready for a late afternoon nap.

Your eyes drifted up to the mirror again as your head rested on his shoulder and you let your eyes soak up the image of the two of you together. It looked surreal, like a painting created of the brightest and most vibrant hues of the sun and the ocean and the sand, although you were sure there was no better composition on earth. George’s eyes were closed, long lashes resting against his flushed cheeks, and his nose was pressed to your head like he was trying to inhale your scent into his dreams. You didn’t move an inch as you stared up at him and let your eyes trace each curve of his muscle and the lines of his body and up his opposite arm that was lazily tucked up behind his head of messy brown hair. He was peaceful...serene...tranquil, and a sight more breathtaking than any corner of the remote island you found yourself on.

In the silence only taken up by the distant crash of waves and songs of tropical birds, you spoke, “Whoever put that mirror up there was a fucking genius.”

George’s lips turned up into a smile and he shifted slightly without opening his eyes, leaving a kiss to your temple. You let your eyes close too and cuddled closer into him, even as your body shifted and started to push out some of the thick creamy liquid that had claimed you from the inside out. Your soft flat hum had him kissing your head again and his fingers danced along the back of your neck in feather soft patterns.

“You feeling okay?” George asked in a whisper.

“Never better.” you answered easily.

You leaned your head back slightly and stared up at him as he met your gaze and he dipped down to kiss your lips, once, twice, three times, and then dusted one over your cheek as your head found his shoulder again.

“I love you.” he breathed into your hair.

“I love you.” you smiled softly, savouring the feeling of his warm skin pressed against your own.

Your legs tangled together under the white sheets, wrapped up in each other’s arms, with breaths and hearts in steady time. Time felt infinite. The thought of leaving that very crease of the mattress was dreadful to you and you forced yourself to take it minute by minute; caressing his chest with your thumb. His skin was warm and tasted salty with sweat when you kissed him. You trailed slow kisses over his collarbones and along his neck and breathed him in, the faint lingering scent of his cologne and the natural pheromones of his body that only drew you in more and more.

“I want to stay right here with you forever.” you whispered dreamily.

“Mm,” George smiled and rubbed his hand tenderly over your back, “Me too.”

You tightened your arm around his body and linked your leg over his two, ignoring the warm ache of your hips and the thick cream that dripped out of you and onto the sheets below. George shifted slightly and rose his arm up with a stretching groan until his muscles tensed for a moment underneath you. He sighed deeply and dropped his arm above his head, his eyes blinking open to meet your gaze through the mirror on the ceiling. You both broke into bashful smiles in the reflection and he kissed your head once more before taking his arm from around your shoulders and started to move away from you.

“Where are you going?” you asked quickly, reaching out to grab his arm again.

“Relax, my love.” George chuckled as he sensed the slight panic in your voice and he stroked your cheek lovingly, “Aren’t you hungry?”

You hadn’t realized it at first, too preoccupied by him, but when he said it you realized how hungry you actually were. You smiled up at him and nodded and he dipped down to kiss you once before you let him shuffle away from you and to the side of the bed.

The white sheets rested around his waist, showing off the toned muscle of his back and the few red scratches that marked him as yours. Still laying in the middle of the bed, you reached out a hand to rub over his back and his waist as he lifted the corded phone from the bedside table to call the resort restaurant.

He sounded so professional on the phone as he ordered you each a burger and fries and you rolled over to hide your blissful blush against his shoulder. Your arm snaked around his body and held him close and his hand rested gently over yours against his chest. He thanked the person on the phone before hanging up and rolling over to tackle you down again into the cloudlike king size bed, showering you in kisses to make you laugh gleefully into the tropical air.

There you laid together, sharing kisses and caresses as the minutes passed by and the waves greeted the shore in rhythmic whispers in the distance. Something about his naked body pressed up and entangled with yours was heavenly and you felt as light as the sheer white curtains billowing in the warm breeze.

A quarter hour later, there was a knock on the door and both of you glanced across the room to the direction of the small entryway. George was propped up over top of you but you eased him to the side so you could retrieve your order, leaving him with a few quick kisses before grabbing your silk robe from where it had been tossed to the floor. He flopped back onto the bed as you tied up your robe and hurried over to answer the door.

The island host was standing on the other side when you peeked out, the room service trolley at her side, and she sent you a knowing smile and a whisper of, “How are you enjoying your stay so far? It looks like you’ve been having fun.”

You hand raised instinctively to the side of your neck that was littered in hickeys but you didn’t feel an ounce of embarrassment. You only grinned at her and replied softly, “It’s…incredible. Is this real?”

“It is not a dream, I can assure you of that.” she said with a gentle laugh.

“How is this real? How could he tell me he loves me so easily…and make love like he meant it?” your words fumbled out of you before you could think.

She only offered you a, “Don’t question the workings of the island. It’s here to give you what you need. Nothing more. Nothing less.”

You glanced behind you quickly to make sure George wasn’t overhearing before you turned back to her and asked quietly, “I have never felt this…at ease in so long. Peaceful. My heart feels so full. I…I can’t believe this.”

“You’re glowing.” the host complimented.

“He’s everything I dreamt about and more. He’s…so perfect.” you whispered, resting your cheek against your hand as you held onto the doorframe. “I’m dizzy in love.”

“Well, I’m glad the island could help you!” she slid the small trolley between you, “I just wanted to check in and bring your dinner along with me.”

“Before you go,” you spoke up quickly.

She stopped herself from leaving and waited for your continuation.

You shuffled nervously, anxious for the answer she would give you to the question that burned in the back of your mind. Finally, you asked, “What happens when I leave on Monday morning? Will this just…be forgotten? Will I go back to being nothing to him?”

The host sighed, a kind smile unwavering from her face, “Just live in the present and take it minute by minute. We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.”

You bit nervously on your bottom lip but before you could answer, a hand was resting on your waist and George was standing right behind you, wrapped in the white down-filled duvet.

“What’s taking so long over here, darling? I’m starving.” George said lightheartedly, sending a small smile to the host of the island as he stood right up close beside you.

Without answering him directly, the host just directed more towards you a blanket request of, “Just focus on having a relaxing and calming stay this weekend. You know where to find me if you need anything.”

You and George both thanked her and she headed off down the wood path through the resort once more. He slid his arm tighter around your middle, “What was that all about?”

You leaned your head back against his shoulder to meet his gaze, “Nothin’. Just telling her how much we have enjoyed ourselves so far.”

George gave your hip a squeeze and your bum a little smack and pressed a strong kiss to your neck, “Come on, gorgeous. Let’s eat.”

You were sure there was no better bliss than waking up tangled in sheets and George’s arms. You stayed in bed for over an hour, cuddling and drifting in and out of sleep as the sun rose over the horizon. After a filling breakfast at the resort restaurant with all your favourite foods lined up along the buffet and piled on your plate, you were guided to the spa. George didn’t leave your side all morning, always staying within arms reach and holding your hand as you checked into your appointment.

The lady led you down the bamboo lined hallway to the large dark room near the end, lined with candles and infused with natural scents of eucalyptus and sage. The two single beds were resting in the centre of the room and the lady left you to prepare for the massage.

“I thought I was going to have to do all of this by myself.” you admitted quietly, watching as George untied his robe and laid it over the small chair by the wall.

“Would you rather be by yourself?” he asked.

“God, no.” you answered easily.

George laughed lightly.

You both undressed to your underwear and draped your spa robes neatly to the side. With your arm over your bare chest, you shuffled onto the massage bed, trying not to shy away from George’s obvious staring from a few feet away. Both of you were perfectly aware that your skin was marked up in love bites and his back donned red scratches, but on Fantasy Island, no one would give a second glance. It was your fantasy after all.

The thin linens were tucked up your back as you laid on your stomachs and you waited for the two masseuses to enter, letting the warm air and the soothing spa music to relax you.

“I’ve never had one of these.” George spoke softly.

You turned your head to look over at him on your left, “You haven’t?”

“Not like this. Just work-related massages…sports massages…this is nicer.” George smiled over at you and reached out a hand from under the blanket. You did the same and your fingers linked together lazily for a moment as you shared a smile from opposite massage tables.

When the masseuses came into the room, they got you both situated and set up their shared selection of oils and creams. With your head facing down in the cushioned face cradle, you couldn’t see George but even just knowing he was right there beside you was enough to ease any stresses you still had left over from your last few months. The two men worked on your backs first, slicking up your skin in warm oils and working their hands along your muscles beautifully.

George’s soft groan from your left made you smile to yourself quietly, keeping your eyes closed as you focused on the pressured hands of your masseuse.

“Ugh, fuck, that’s good.” George groaned, his voice muffled by the linens. “Ohh, yeah.”

“Baby,” you chuckled shyly and reached out your hand towards him, “Stop.”

“Stop what?” George mumbled, lazily taking your hand in his.

“Stop...being so loud.”

He only hummed, resting his face back into the bed just as his masseuse pressed his thumbs down into his shoulders. George’s deep moan nearly shot shivers down your spine and right between your legs and you gripped tighter onto his hand. You laid side by side on your individual beds, holding hands between you, and basking in the comforting warmth that relaxed your body and your mind.

Despite the pleasing deep touch of your masseuse over your stiff muscles, you could really only focus on George’s soft moans and groans that he let out with his tension into the linens. You really were looking forward to your massage but now, you were more looking forward to getting back to the room.

When the hour and a half was up and the two masseuses left the room to let you rise when you wished, both you and George sighed deeply at the same time. You shared soft laughter between you and glanced over at each other from where you were now laying on your backs. The linens were pulled up your chests, keeping you decent and keeping George’s abs covered to stay somewhat warm. Your hands reached out to find each others again and his thumb rubbed over your knuckles gently, eyes lingering through the dark candle lit room.

“This was better than I expected.” George admitted.

“You sure you didn’t want a mud bath or something instead?” you chuckled.

George shook his head, “No way. This was perfect.”

With one more squeeze of your hands, you both slowly started to get up and slipped on the robes again. George tied the cloth belt around his waist and you stepped up to set your hand on his arm and pushed a quick kiss to his lips.

“What was that for?” he chuckled, sliding his arm around your waist to pull you close and kiss you again before you could answer.

“I just love you.” you shrugged. “And this weekend.”

George brushed his hand over your messy hair and down your jaw, “I love you too.”

“I feel so slimy from the oils.” you whispered as he leaned in to kiss you softly again.

“Shower?” he offered between gentle kisses to your waiting lips.

“Yeah.” you agreed quietly, resting your hands against the front of his robe as you gladly accepted his kisses.

“With me?” George tried.

You smiled wider and slid your arms around his waist to cling onto him in a tight hug, “Yes, please.”

He cradled your cheek in his hand and kissed you deeply, capturing your bottom lip between his two in slow kisses that made your heart race. You pulled him closer until your robe clad bodies were pressed up against each other and shared lingering kisses for a few more seconds.

Finally, George took your hand and pulled you out of the massage room and into the hallway of the spa, the bright sunlight blinding you slightly as you stepped out into the light, but he just led the way over the soft flooring. A few doors down near the end of the hall were the private change rooms and he pulled you into one without a word. You couldn’t stop a small giggle from falling from your lips as he locked the door behind you and let your body drape around him.

The set up of the small change room was that of a full bath with additional lockers and seating areas and a sauna in true spa fashion. Along the far side was a full wall of windows framing the bathtub and the glass stand up shower, providing a full view of lush foliage right out towards the white sand beaches and crystal blue ocean in the distance. You let your eyes take in the scenery as George’s arms snaked around your waist and his lips found your neck in wet open mouthed kisses. He didn’t seem bothered by the massage oils that lightly coated your skin.

You set your hands on his biceps underneath the soft white fabric of his robe and smiled to yourself as his touch sent shivers down your spine, “Baby, you were moaning so loud during the massage.”

George chuckled against your neck, “So what? It felt good.”

You hummed softly and he lifted his head up to push his lips on yours. You gladly accepted his kisses, staying slow and gentle.

In a whisper, he spoke, “Did it turn you on?”

“Maybe.” you teased.

“All I could think about was having your hands on me like that…with those oils and creams and rubbing it into my body…all over…can you blame me?” His hands slid into yours and your fingers linked lazily together at your sides. His eyes stayed locked with yours as if purposely rising that anticipation between you as your lips rested only millimeters apart. His gaze dropped to your lips then back up. “God, I just want you all over me.”

Your robe dropped before you could even think, his hands and yours at fault to the sudden action before the rush to undress really started. George yanked his robe off too and your eyes stayed locked as you both pushed your underwear down and kicked it to the side. You nearly lunged for him, his arms welcoming you eagerly as your lips met messily and your slick skin met in a perfect warm embrace. His moan wasn’t unlike the ones he had let out during the massage and as his tongue pushed into your mouth, he grabbed your thigh and hiked your leg up around his waist.

Right in the middle of the room you stood together, in the light of the afternoon sun, bare bodies slick in oil pressed together and hands gripping onto flesh as you kissed. You were sure you were leaving more scratches against his back, clinging onto him tightly as he kissed the air from your lungs. His handprints smeared over your warm skin, muscles eased from your massage and now craving him more and more as he drank you up in his hands.

“George.” you breathed into his mouth.

“Come.” he whispered, leaving you with a bite to your bottom lip before taking your hand and pulling you after him into the large glass shower.

Your eyes lingered on his bare body as he turned on the water and set the temperature, fully exposed to him all naturally in the light of the tropical sun streaking through the window wall framing the shower. He was glowing, not only from the oil that slicked up his skin, but from the paradise that looked so good on him. He was a vision and you still couldn’t believe your luck as he turned back to you, captured your chin in his hand, and parted his lips to lock with yours passionately.

George grabbed your hips and pulled you into the stream of warm water, blindly kissing through it as the oil was washed from your bodies slowly and your hair was damped to fall over your shoulders and foreheads. You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and tilted your head to the side to kiss him deeper, pushing your tongue against his eagerly as your chests pressed together and bodies moulded together.

George leaned back from your lips and reached a hand up to push his soaked hair back from his face before setting it back around your waist, “You know, baby…”

You stared at his lips as he spoke, watching how he formed each word.

“That full body massage was so good but...it was missing one thing.”

“What’s that?” you giggled softly.

George’s hand slapped down hard against your ass, the water on your skin causing the sound to echo loudly through the shower, “This perfect part of you. I should pick up the slack.”

You shared soft laughter at his ridiculousness as you both leaned in for more kisses and his hands groped the flesh of your bum, pulling you tighter against him. His dick was pressed against your thigh and could feel how hard he was getting. It only made you tug his lips on yours stronger, letting the water cascade over both of you steadily onto the marble floor. The soft rush of the shower water was the perfect backdrop to your steamy kisses, muting the world around you even if it was on display through the large picture window overlooking the greenery and the distant beach.

George slowly walked you out of the stream of water and pushed you back against the glass, moving his kisses down your neck before he was dropping to his knees. You exhaled deeply in anticipation, letting him lift your left leg up to drape over his shoulder and his eyes stayed on yours as he kissed over your inner thigh briefly. His large hands slid up your hips and back down to your thighs and your ass, squeezing and rubbing and massaging until you were relaxing under his touch.

“That’s my girl.” George whispered, kissing over your hips slowly. “Just relax.”

You pushed your hand through his wet hair lazily, scratching your fingers through the roots just as he sucked a hickey into your thigh. You hummed softly, letting your head roll back gently against the window and your eyes fluttered closed as he slid his hand between your legs. He rubbed slow stripes back and forth over your folds, just enough to feel how wet you were while still teasing you agonizingly slowly.

“George.” you breathed, trying to push your hips towards him, “Please, baby.”

He shuffled closer on his knees, stretching your leg a bit farther over his shoulder to spread you open for him to lean in and swipe his tongue along your folds. Your breath shuttered in your chest as he licked his lips free of the taste of you and let his eyes raise up to yours as he moved back in again. His tongue glided strongly between your legs, parting your lips to taste some of the sweet arousal that pooled out of you and he moaned pleasantly against your damp skin.

“Holy...fuck, George.” you whimpered shakily, dropping your head to look down at him with our hand in his hair as he suckled and licked and kissed over your cunt.

His large hands slid up your thighs and around your body to grope your ass. Your hips pushed off the window slightly towards his face and gave him room to spank you lightly before he grabbed tightly to your flesh and pulled you closer to his mouth.

His tongue slid up to your clit and he swirled strong circles over it to make your fingers grip tighter to his hair as your whole body flinched. A soft shriek fell from your lips and you scrunched your nose up as he found a steady pattern with his tongue. His hands stayed on your ass, massaging your flesh as he pressed strong swirls against your clit and finally let one hand move to spread you open between thumb and forefinger.

You squealed his name as he sucked hard over your clit, your heel pressing against his back between his shoulder blades to keep his face between your legs. Both your hands gripped tightly in his wet hair as you rolled your hips against his face and he stared up at you behind long lashes, not faltering for a moment. His mouth made filthy wet sounds against your body as he sucked and licked his way through your most sensitive spots, yet was muffled by the drone of the shower still running just behind him.

“Baby,” you cried out softly, moaning softly through the glass shower, “George…sweetheart…Geor-G-George, baby-“

He only moaned louder against you, pressing his tongue down harder and flicked it back and forth faster and faster as his hands squeezed your ass. You tossed your head back against the glass, biting your lip desperately as you whimpered and moaned through the echoing shower, and rubbed your hips harder against his face.

“God, you taste so,” George paused for one more strong lick, “so fucking good.”

He rose up from his knees no matter how much you tried to keep him there with your hands in his hair and your leg around his back. George only shifted your leg from his shoulder to his waist and he pushed you back against the window harder, trapping you snugly against his body. His hard cock naturally fit between your legs and you couldn’t help but try to rut your hips against it desperately, letting out a strangled little cry just as he leaned in to kiss you again. You could taste yourself on his mouth and you held his face in your hands as you sucked on his tongue and lips and savoured his sloppy kisses.

You couldn’t even worry about what anyone else might see from the outside of the window as you were far too concerned with what was happening inside. The layers of foliage would hopefully disguise you enough. With your bare body pressed against the glass wall, George held you there strongly by a hand on your shoulder as his other dropped between you to angle his dick between your legs.

“Yes. Please.” you whispered to him, tugging your leg up higher around his waist to spread yourself open and he slid the tip between your folds, back and forth. You bit your lip again, arms draped around his shoulders, staring at his concentrated face as he watched himself tease you. But in a sudden instant, he was pushing strongly inside you.

Your jaw fell slack at the stretch, whimpering softly as his eyes rose to yours and he groaned lowly between you. He fit inside you so perfectly that you couldn’t hide the hint of a smile that grazed your face. George’s hands dropped to your ass again and he hoisted you closer until your tiptoe was barely left on the wet tile floor, your body pressed flush against his as he was buried nice and deeply inside you.

“You’re so fucking gorgeous.” George whispered, his lips grazing yours with how close you were, “And you feel so incredible, sweetheart.”

“Fuck me.” you blurted out quietly, staring him right in the eyes.

“Of course.” George chuckled softly, leaning in for a sloppy kiss as he hiked you up higher against the window and you let your other leg join around his waist. He shuffled in place to make sure he had a good grip on you and he pushed your back against the glass, having been warmed by the tropical island heat.

He rolled his hips into you slowly at first, his hands gripping tightly to your ass to pull your body into each motion. Your breathing was falling shallow and in time with each other, staring into each other’s eyes in your close proximity, and your hand slid into the back of his wet hair. George started to thrust into you deeply, pulling out and pushing back in with long slow strokes that had you moaning pleasantly at the beautiful stretch. His lips captured your gaze and you couldn’t help but stare at the perfect shape of his cupid’s bow and the plush enticing curves begging for a kiss, entranced by the sight of him and his every detail, especially as his teeth sunk gently into the supple pink flesh of his bottom lip.

He pushed a little stronger into you, groaning lightly between you as he did so and you linked your ankles together behind his back to keep him nice and deep. His eyes stayed on your face, your body shifting slightly against the window with each strong slow thrust, up and back down, again and again.

“More, baby, please.” you begged quietly.

George’s lips perked up at the corner in a small smirk before he pushed into you stronger.

“Yeah-“ you breathed, gasping as he shoved into you harder. “Shit-“

“Good?” he asked breathily.

“Harder. Faster. Gimme more.” you ordered, wrapping your arms around his shoulders tighter as his hips pushed against yours with more force. You moaned softly as he picked up speed, your eyes locked as he fucked into you sharply.

George’s hands on your ass kept you open wide for him to use and his heavy breaths fell in rough pants infused with quiet grunts and moans with each snap of his hips. He kept his legs spread slightly to keep balance in the shower and held you against the window for support as he bounced you on his dick in time with his hard thrusts.

“George! Fuck! Yes!” you squealed, clawing up his back as your forehead fell gently against his. “Oh my God!”

“Fuck, you’re beautiful. You’re so fucking perfect.” George mumbled between you.

You pushed your lips on his, both of you moaning through ungrateful kisses as he fucked you against the window. One of his hands moved to press against the glass beside your head, his tongue fighting its way into your mouth through your shared groans as you clung onto him desperately.

Despite the water that was still running through the shower, the wet clap of your skin together overpowered it with ease. You had to break your kiss to breathe, gasping in pleasant overwhelm as your head fell back and his lips met your neck, your fingers tangled in his hair to keep him close.

“Oh, George-“ you cried shakily.

“Say my name, baby.” he groaned into your neck.

“George.” you repeated in a tone dripping with lust.

“Fuck.” he grunted, grabbing one of your breasts in his hand as he pounded into you harder.

“George!” you gasped, tugging at his hair as your head fell back against the glass. “Oh, George, baby, I’m gonna fucking cum!”

But then he stopped suddenly and didn’t even give you a chance to complain before he was setting your feet down on the ground and spun you around to face out of the large paned window. Your hands instinctively went to the glass just as he slid his dick between your legs and you pushed your hips back to help him inside you again. Your shaky moan at the return of the stretch and his hands finding your hips and his lips meeting your neck.

His hands kept your legs straight and together, creating the tightest little spot for him to squeeze into and right away, he was fucking into you roughly. Your hands squeaked down the slightly steamy glass as your chest pushed out a loud moan and you tried to push back on him for more. His breath was hot against your neck, one arm around your middle and the other gripping one of your breasts as he pounded into you, groaning hungrily against your wet skin.

Your eyes struggled to stay open but you let yourself take in the beautiful nature that surrounded the resort, displayed right before you out the window wall of the spa shower. From the breeze ruffling the trees to the muted crash of waves onto the sandy shore, it was beautiful and serene and not a person in sight to stumble upon your steamy shower scene.

The shower only echoed the filthy loud clap of George’s skin on yours that grew only louder as he sped up. You reached a hand back to tangle in his hair, arching your back for him to have him ramming into your g-spot perfectly.

“Oh, fuck, baby!” you squealed. “Right there! Please, please, please!”

George’s teeth sunk into your shoulder gently, moaning loudly against your flesh as your pussy squeezed around him tightly. You were just so warm and wet he couldn’t get enough, his hips snapping against yours at nearly record speeds, driven by fierce desire.

He clung onto you possessively, groaning against your ear, “That’s it, beautiful. Cum on my cock. Come on. Show me how much you love me, baby girl.”

“Geo-o-o-rge-“ you sobbed out blissfully in time with his rough thrusts, tugging harder at his hair over your shoulder as your other hand dropped to swirl messily over your clit. “F-Fuck!”

“Good girl, sweetheart.” George praised, his warm jagged breath sending shivers down your neck, “Shit, you’re squeezing me so fucking tight, darling.”

“Cum inside me.” you whimpered. “I want it so fucking bad!”

“You’re so fucking dirty, baby. I love you so fucking much.” George groaned, smacking your hand away from between your legs to take over for you. His slender fingers rubbed rough circles over your clit as he pounded into you from behind and your whole body shuttered with overwhelming pleasure.

You couldn’t even speak for a moment, breath knocked from your lungs, and you just stared out the window with your mouth hanging agape. Finally, your chest heaved with a sudden inhale and your legs trembled beneath you as warmth spread through your stomach and you rushed out a pitchy, “Fuck, George, I’m cumming!”

He held you upright in his arms as you came around him, your moans and cries echoing through the shower, as he fucked you through it as your pussy clenched down on him so hard he nearly stumbled. He followed seconds later, shooting thick shots of cum deep inside you with loud groans let out against your neck, his hands gripping your body wherever he could reach. You breathed heavily, your muscles pulsing around him to accept him all as his dick twitched inside you with each messy spurt.

“I love you.” you whimpered out, eyes falling closed as he kissed your neck through the tapering off of your orgasms.

“Mm,” George smiled against your wet skin and he gave your hips a little squeeze, “I love you.”

You leaned your head back against his shoulder and led his lips to yours for a proper kiss, staying there for a few more seconds just to savour the moment. The running shower swallowed the sounds of your kisses and washed away the thick white cream that dripped out of you as he pulled out. But he dropped to his knees behind you and spread your ass in his large hands and leaned in to lick up the mess that was leaking out of you.

Your eyes nearly rolled back in your head, pressing your hands against the glass to keep yourself upright as he licked and sucked over your aching and sensitive pussy to help clean you up. He wasn’t there for too long and he sat back to spank you hard and then massaged your flesh with his snug grip. George left a few kisses over your thighs and ass and hips as he stood and then went back for your neck.

You hummed through your pleasant smile, leaning your head to the side to give him room as his arms snaked around your waist and he swayed you side to side ever so gently. His gentle kisses on your neck felt like heaven and you couldn’t dream of ever leaving his embrace. He smiled gently against your wet skin and rubbed his hands over your stomach lovingly.

“Let me wash you up.” George whispered.

You let him pull you over into the stream of the shower, the water still perfectly warm, and you didn’t stray too far from his arms as he reached for the shampoo bottle. The water poured over you both, along your shoulders and down between your bare bodies pressed chest to chest. You couldn’t stop staring at him with your arms around his waist, sharing a smile as he lathered his hands in shampoo and rubbed them into your hair, scratching perfectly over your scalp. His lips pushed onto yours in little gentle kisses as you took the shampoo bottle yourself and slid your own soaped up hands into his brown hair. You shared little smiles between kisses, letting the warm water rinse the suds from your skin and out of your hair and tried not to get soap in your eyes.

The shower was your haven for the good side of a half hour and when you had washed each other clean of massage oil and plentiful bodily fluids, the feeling of domesticity was thudding in your heart. George turned off the water and grabbed you each a towel from the small bench just outside the shower and you dried off and redressed into your robes.

For the remainder of the day, you relaxed by the resort pool with bottomless tropical drinks and perfectly hot temperatures. You in your strapless bikini and George in his swim shorts, you laid side by side on the beach chairs and tanned in the afternoon sun, proudly ignorant to the hickeys that littered both of your bodies. No one would give you strange looks anyway; certainly not on Fantasy Island. You were there to live your absolute best life, no matter what that was defined by. It also meant you didn’t get a sunburn no matter how long you laid out in the direct sunlight, returning into the resort hand in hand for dinner with matching perfect tanned glows.

On Sunday, the final day, you felt as though you were set for life. This was it, wasn’t it? Him and you forever in paradise? The booked flight set for the next day or the entire reason why you needed to get away in the first place seemed to be the last thing on your mind. Making love to George all over the island seemed to have that effect on you and waking up to his sleepy peaceful face just made it all even better. He knew how to touch you to forget all of your stresses and all of your worries.

And the morning hike around the forestry and the hills of the small island certainly kept you distracted too. George thrived like that, wearing only shorts and his sneakers as the guide led you both through the trees and up steep terrain to see all that the island had to offer. It was a beautiful slice of paradise, that was for sure, but your eyes stayed drawn to the man sticking by your side and how his toned muscles were slick in a thin layer of sweat from the heat. He didn’t complain once when you slid your hand into his, even when the path got thin and he had to hold his arm behind him to keep your grip.

Lunch was had as a picnic on the top of the island with a scenic view of the crystal blue ocean all around. It was truly picturesque and with your legs dangling off the side of the mountain top side by side with George, you were sure there was nothing better. He told you so too as he kissed you sweetly and held you close while you admired the view.

By the time you returned to the resort, it was time to clean up for dinner. You shared the shower in your room - strictly to wash this time however - and then picked out the nicest clothes you had with you to wear. In a floor length thin summer dress, you felt like an island princess. Your prince wore khaki shorts and a white button up tucked into the waistband and when he came up behind you in the bathroom mirror, he set a thin crown of white tropical flowers over your hair. He wore a matching flower tucked in the pocket of his shirt.

The sun wasn’t quite set when you reached the restaurant hand in hand and it cast a lovely yellow-orange glow over the island and George’s smiling face as he held the door open for you. You ate at a table for two overlooking the ocean, sharing a bottle of wine and then a dessert after a satisfying meal, and held hands over the table as often as you could. People might have thought you were honeymooners.

As the sun set, you found yourself walking along the shore together, strolling quietly and admiring the gentle rush of waves on the sand and the warm tones of the evening sky. George’s hand was snug in yours, a place where he seemed to fit so perfectly, although his gaze was focused out over the water. You were staring at him, absorbing the line of his jaw and the volume of his hair and the way you could nearly see the setting sun reflected in his sparkling eyes.

You fell to a stop, your hand in his urging him to stop too and he turned to face you.

“What is it?” he asked.

You smiled, welcoming him closer and your hand that wasn’t in his slid up his chest and to the side of his neck, “Nothing. I just wanted to look at you.”

George didn’t reply. Instead, he leaned in to kiss your lips ever so gently. Once, twice, and a third time that lingered a little longer than the prior two.

Before he could pull away, you pulled him back in for more, draping your arms around his shoulders and his snaked around your waist. To the sound of the ocean waves, you kissed the sun down, not a soul in sight on the long stretch of empty beach. Your bodies were pressed together as if never wanting to be separated and you shared sweet tongueless kisses on the sand.

Finally, when George managed to escape your lips, he turned just behind him and you followed his gaze. There was a small set-up that you hadn’t noticed before; a small group of blankets and pillows laid out neatly on the sand under a little white mesh canopy and framed in fairy lights. The small wooden table held a fresh pitcher of water and two glasses each with a slice of lemon on the sides and a plate of fresh fruit. Fantasy Island always delivered when you least expected it.

“How romantic.” you said sweetly, cuddling into his side as his arm draped around your body.

George looked back at you and dipped down for a few more kisses, raising his hand to your jaw to keep you there a moment longer. When he pulled away, he brushed his nose over yours and whispered, “I think we should go for a swim first.”

“With what bathing suits?” you laughed lightly.

George only stepped back from you just enough to untuck his shirt from his shorts and started to unbutton it. You watched him silently as he took another step back towards the ocean and then another, finally pulling his shirt from his shoulders and tossed it haphazardly in the direction of the blankets.

“We don’t need any.” he answered as he walked backwards ever so slowly towards the ocean, his hands unbuckling his belt and then unzipping his pants. He paused just long enough to push them down, right along with his boxers, and your cheeks flushed pink at the sight of him bare in the setting sun and darkening sky. His clothes made a messy pile beside the small table from where he had thrown them and he curled his finger in your direction to get you to follow as he waded backwards into the lapping waves.

You glanced down the beach, left and right, to make sure there was really no one in sight. It nearly appeared that the island was vacant except for the two of you. Silent, dim, and empty. You pulled your dress over your head before you could second guess, dropped your panties and unclipped your bra, and hurried after him into the water.

The silent island welcomed the sudden splash of waves as you both waded ungracefully into the water, sharing excited laughter as your arms reached for each other. You grabbed onto his forearms and tried to lean in for a kiss as you both moved deeper into the warm ocean, but George stumbled over his feet and fell backwards, pulling you down into the water with him in a huge splash.

You broke the surface again and burst into shared laughter, still thrown on top of him in the waving sea. His hand pushed your wet hair from your face and let your laughter melt away on your lips as your eyes met through the moonlight.

George pulled you in first by the back of your head, kissing you strongly as you were mostly submerged in the salt water. His other hand held himself up on the sandy bottom of the shallow water and your legs stayed tangled with his in the same messy position you had fallen into. Your kisses were messy through your smiles and made a bit wetter by the salt water that splashed around you, but it was nothing less than perfect.

You set your hand on his chest and pulled back from your kiss just long enough to say, “We should get away from the shore a bit more.”

George only leaned in to nibble teasingly at your bottom lip before you were shuffling up again and wading deeper into the ocean hand in hand. When the warm water reached your chests, he scooped you right up into his arms by your thighs and moved in for more kisses. Under the water, your legs wrapped around his body with ease and your arms draped around his shoulders to cradle his head in your hands and kept his mouth on yours. The waves, stained in the faintest orange tones from the sun just peeking over the horizon, splashed around the two of you like you were two pieces of a single marble statue, breaking against your bare skin and spraying gentle specks of salt water over your faces and into your hair.

George felt warm. Despite the humid tropical weather and the just as pleasant ocean you were in, the warmth of his body felt almost refreshing and comforting. He was warm and living and yours. His large hands slid up your back, letting you float in front of him in the water as his hands traced your body and up into the roots of your hair.

He inhaled into your kiss as if to breathe you in and you felt his chest push against yours before falling again. You tilted your head to the side to kiss him deeper, your damp hair tumbling over one shoulder as your lips locked in slow passionate kisses. George moaned softly into your mouth, just as both of you pushed out your tongues. They met between your kisses and you shared soft laughter at how in sync you were, but didn’t waste a single second that was to be spent embraced in a kiss.

You shuffled slightly, shifting your legs more comfortably around his waist in the warm salt water and just enough to dip your hips down to graze against his dick. He was still mostly soft but the touch of the curve of your ass had him sighing deeply into your mouth and his dick twitched ever so slightly underwater. You linked your ankles together behind his back and reached a hand down to wrap around his length, lazily stroking with barely your fingertips as your kiss continued above water.

George’s hand slid from your hair along your neck and right around to your throat where he squeezed gently, urging you to gasp softly into his mouth. His teeth sunk down into your bottom lip and he soothed it with a lick before he moved his kisses down your neck and his hand dropped lower to your bare chest. He greedily cupped your right breast in his hand, groping it snugly as his teeth sunk into the skin of your neck and his tongue swiped up the lingering taste of salt water.

“George.” you breathed out, letting your head fall back slightly to give him room at your neck. You blindly wrapped your hand around his dick between you, feeling him harden second by second as you stroked him slowly.

“God, darling,” George groaned softly against your neck and he kissed right up under your ear to make you shiver, “What are you doing to me?”

“Make love to me before the sun goes down.” you requested gently, tilting his head up by his chin to kiss his lips again.

“Right here?” George chuckled softly between kisses.

“Mhm.”

Your thumb swiped over the head of his dick and you traced the slit at the end lazily back and forth as your eyes locked in your close proximity through the rising night. His breath shuttered in his chest and your lips met again in a few lingering kisses as he kneaded your breast for a moment and then slipped his hand under the water. You kissed lazily as you touched each other, gentle fingers rubbing and stroking and finding the familiarity in each other’s bodies once again.

George moved down your neck, kissing and sucking over your skin as you let your gaze drift back towards the beach. You did a quick scan to make sure there was no one else around, although Fantasy Island was a place that always seemed to anticipate your next moves. The beach was completely vacant.

By only the light of the sliver of sun and away from the luminescent glow of the resort in the distance, it was hard to see much apart from each other’s faces and certainly nothing under the water. You moved blindly together as George steadied his feet on the sandy ocean floor and you moved to carefully angle yourself right against the tip of his dick. His hands gripped onto your waist and he almost pulled you down on him, smothering your sweet gasp with his lips on yours as you sheathed around him so perfectly.

“Oh my God, George.” you breathed, rising your hand against his chest quickly when you bottomed out.

The sea water made for a bit more friction between you as it tended to wash away that natural lubrication but that didn’t matter; it still somehow felt more than incredible. He felt more than incredible.

George’s low groan was heavenly and you pulled his lips on yours by the back of his neck. You shared a few sloppy kisses before your heels pressed into his bum to urge him deeper and your hips ground down strongly on him. He pulled a hand from the water to grab your breast again, squeezing your flesh to let his mouth dip down to wrap around your nipple as his hips pushed back against yours.

“Fuck.” you breathed out, your head falling back as your hands gripped tightly to the back of his head and tangled in his wet hair. He sucked on your breast and formed beautiful little love bites over your flesh as his free hand was held around your waist and was grinding you down in time with him.

The sun finally disappeared behind the horizon, setting the beach into near darkness apart from the rising moonlight and the haze of light from the distant resort. It was quiet and serene and filled you with an indescribable warmth. The waves only got slightly larger as you tried to rock yourself on him, rubbing your bodies together ungracefully in the ocean water.

“Give me your legs.” George whispered, shifting slightly to hook your knees over his arms and his hands found your waist again.

You kept yourself steady with your hands on the back of his neck, staring down into the blackness of the water surrounding you as he lifted you up slightly and then eased you back down on his cock. The trembling whimper that fell from your mouth was his praise enough and he repeated the same action slowly, letting his hips push forward to meet you halfway each time.

“God, my love, you feel so good.” George breathed between you.

You rested your forehead against his gently, “Don’t ever pull out.”

He chuckled lightly, “No way, beautiful.”

Your fingers tugged gently at the hair at the nape of his neck, “Ever.”

“Ever.” George agreed easily, nudging his nose against yours to kiss you properly.

The moan you let out into his mouth had him fucking you a little faster, bouncing you on his dick the best he could in chest-deep salt water in time with the messy thrusts of his hips. Your tongues met and lips clashed and you shared shallow breaths and pleasant moans together as the waves crashed around you.

The moon rose over the horizon, pairing beautifully with the star speckled sky that reflected into the dark nighttime ocean you found yourself in. The stars fluttered and danced over the waves that rocked around the two of you and they sparkled in George’s eyes when he looked at you so close that you could feel his breath on your cheek. Your lips grazed, sharing feather soft kisses in your distraction, and your fingers scratched lovingly through the back of his hair.

George slid his hands down to your bum and pulled you down all the way, groaning softly against your lips as he rocked your body against his in strong curling motions. You sighed shakily, focusing on the feeling of his thick cock buried so deep inside you it was nearly heaven but the friction from the water seemed to be a bit of a hindrance of getting you any closer. You clung onto him tightly, trying to get more out of it as you rocked your body against his in time with his thrusts. It felt good but you wanted more.

George’s lips found yours again and you kissed passionately as he guided your motions with ease in the water. You slid your hand down between you and tugged lazy circles over your clit, whimpering pleadingly into his mouth for more. But he took your hand out of the water and pulled you closer, letting you rut up against his body instead.

“Use me.” he instructed softly.

You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and buried your face in his neck as he fucked you slowly and let you rub against his abs with each thrust. You could only go faster, whimpering against his salty skin as you were nearly humping his body amidst the waves, desperate to edge yourself on and to get closer to that release. George’s hands groped your ass and bounced you faster on his dick, breathing hard against your shoulder and let out a trembling groan as you clenched down around him.

“Oh, sweetheart,” he moaned, “I’m gonna cum.”

“Not yet.” you whined softly.

“Just trust me.” George said sweetly against your ear. “I’m not going to forget about you, okay? Trust me.”

You only nodded, pulling his lips back on yours for more kisses. George was nearly using you, grinding up into you in steady strokes that had him groaning into your mouth in time. The water splashed around you more as he sped up, his teeth sinking into your bottom lip as he gripped your ass tighter and pushed on harder.

“Fuck.” George said through his teeth, his dick throbbing inside you.

You were so focused on it and his lips that you barely noticed him starting to move until your chest emerged from the warm water. He was walking you back towards shore, still trying to fuck you through each step with his hands on your bum and his hips pushing desperately into yours. Once he reached calf deep water, he eased you down onto your back against the wet sand, keeping your legs hooked over his arms to leave you spread as he stayed nice and deep inside you.

“Okay?” he asked breathlessly.

You nodded him on, holding onto his biceps as he started to thrust into you again, taking you on the beach as the shallow water rushed around you in steady waves. His moans were beautiful, his forehead resting against yours as his hips did all the work, causing splashes of water and slick smacking of skin on skin to rise across the silent beach.

“Shit, baby.” you cried out softly, digging your nails into his arms. “Don’t stop.”

George let his eyes find yours, keeping your strong eye contact as he fucked you quickly on the tropical shore under a blanket of stars. The sand didn’t stick to you and in fact it didn’t feel itchy at all. Fantasy Island was full of perfected versions of things and the white sand beaches that cradled your body in the tide was no different. George dipped down to kiss you a few times through his quick thrusts but pulled back to breathe, licking his lips as he stared down at you.

“I’m gonna cum, baby.” he warned softly, his voice wavering, “I’m gonna cum so fucking deep inside you.”

“Yeah. Please.” you whimpered, welcoming his body on yours as he shifted down to his forearms on the sand on either side of your head. “Oh my God, George, come inside me. Please.”

“Yeah-” he groaned, going faster and faster and faster until his jagged breaths were falling still and his eyes were nearly rolling back in his head. “F-Fuck me-”

Your hands dropped to his waist and you tugged his body towards you so he was inside you as deep as he could possibly go, your mouth falling open as he shot thick spurts of cum right into you. It wasn’t the first time but it certainly felt just as good as ever, your own pleasant moans tumbling from your lips as he claimed you through shaky groans and little grunts, rolling his body into yours to really finish himself off.

“Oh, God, baby.” George whimpered.

He leaned down to kiss you right away, capturing your bottom lip between his two for a few strong kisses before he was moving down your neck. The tide splashed shallowly around your bare body as George pulled out of you and easily slid down your body with hungry kisses to land between your legs. He nudged them open a bit farther and watched as the water splashed up against your thighs and the curve of your ass and the moonlight glinted off the thick white cream that trickled out of your cunt. George licked his lips and dived right in, showering you in kisses over your folds before he was licking up the reminisce of his love making.

Your hands found his hair to hold his face between your legs as he worked to finish you off next, the initial sensations already being enough to let your head drop back against the wet sand beneath you with a soft moan. His lips found your clit and he gave perfect attention to your most sensitive spot, shooting blissful ecstasy down your limbs as he kissed over it before sucking softly through his own pleasant moans.

“Fuck, George.” you breathed his name to the tropical night sky.

The island felt as though it was echoing your moans and his hungry slurps and wet kisses across the water and through the trees, the emptiness of the land around you made the place feel like your very own private oasis. His tongue on your clit dampened you more after the ocean had tried to leave you clean and he took his opportunity to slick his fingers in your arousal and the sticky mess of cum he claimed you in, and pushed two digits inside you.

Your trembling “oh” fell from your lips shakily, your breath shuttering in your chest as he pumped them into you steadily and his tongue swirled lazily over your clit.

George’s eyes raised to yours as he fingered you tenderly and tasted the salt water on your warm skin behind the sweet flavour of your body. He was a beautiful sight between your legs, bare like the essence of man and stained in sea water that splashed up around him in small choppy waves and circled your body in the aftermath. You were one. He was yours. He was all yours in the light of the moon and the glow from the small camping set up left a few metres up the beach.

“Fuck, baby. Fuck, George-“ you sobbed out, trying to keep your legs back from encircling his head. “Faster.”

He followed your orders, fingering his cum back into you in quick thrusts before he was shoving his fingers deep and flicking them eagerly against your slick walls. His tongue picked up too, rubbing quickly over your clit until you were nearly soaked in spit as much as ocean water.

“Yeah.” you whimpered, only growing in volume as he kept up, “Yeah. Yeah. Yeah! Yeah! Yeah, baby, yeah, baby- please don’t stop, I’m gonna cum!”

George nuzzled his face deeper into your cunt, devouring you until you were seeing stars in more than just the night sky above you. Your moans were turning insistent and loud and you tugged at his hair harder, trying to rub up against his face.

“Oh my-“ your voice fell quiet as that warm tightness in your lower stomach was starting to burst. Your muscles clenched down hard around his fingers and George kept his pace going until your back was arching off the sand and shallow water with an ever so quiet whimper, “Oh, s-sir-“

If he hadn’t already came, that title certainly would have finished him off and he moaned loudly against your body as you writhed underneath him and soaked his fingers in your liquids. Your whimpering carried across the waves and the sand and he lapped up every drop until you were pushing his head away with over sensitivity. George kissed your hip and then shuffled up over top of you to kiss your lips. Your arms draped around his shoulders and you tasted yourself on his tongue along with the salt water that was left behind from the ocean.

“You’re perfect.” George whispered between slow kisses. “You’re so fucking perfect, sweetheart.”

You took his face in your hands and caressed his cheeks, staring up into his blue eyes that sparkled with the fairy lights up the beach and you told him an honest, “I love you.”

George smiled and dipped down to kiss you once more, “I love you more.”

A slight chill brushed over you and you shivered in the open air, pulling George closer.

“Are you cold, baby?” he asked gently against your ear, petting his hand over your head.

“Just a bit.” you shrugged, rubbing your hands up his bare back.

“Come on.” George shifted off your body and helped you to your feet with his hands in yours.

You hurried back up the beach together in your nakedness, trying to cover yourself up the best you could in fear someone was to stumble upon you. But the beach was empty and you were perfectly alone, giving you all the space you needed to settle on the soft pile of blankets and pillows together to dry off. The sand never stuck to your wet skin which was incredible and you patted yourself dry before shuffling into your dress again, leaving your bra and panties to the side. George pulled on his shorts once he had dried off and then joined you under the small canopy of lights.

Out of the water, the tropical air felt much warmer once again and even without the sun, it was pleasant and comfortable. George arranged the pillows a little to lean back on and he gently pulled you down with him to cuddle up at his side, his arm around your shoulders. His bare torso was claimed by your hand, fingers dancing over his abs and along his pecs.

George watched you stare at him, his fingers tangling in the ends of your damp hair lazily, and he breathed steadily and peacefully in the tropical night. He leaned down slightly to kiss the top of your head and when you looked up at his face and pushed another kiss to his waiting lips, it sort of sunk in that it was your last night on the island. You frowned to yourself and snuggled closer to him, resting your head on his chest as your arm hugged his body close.

“I love you.” you whispered.

“I love you, my beautiful, stunning, incredibly gorgeous woman.” George replied sweetly, rubbing his hand up your arm that was around his middle. He kissed your head again.

“Georgie.” you breathed.

He hummed in reply, letting you continue.

“I don’t want to go home tomorrow. I don’t want to say goodbye to you.”

“Don’t think about that right now.” George tisked, stroking your hair away from your face. “We still have all night.”

“I can’t help it.” you mumbled.

He moved his arm as you shifted up to look down at him laying beside you and he draped it under his head, staring worriedly back at you from your obvious uncertainty. Your heart had that familiar ache back, that same ache that you came to the island to cure in the first place. The fact that it was still there made you even more upset and you looked away from him and across the beach with a shaky inhale.

George spoke your name softly, reaching up to gently turn your head back towards him by a finger under your chin, “Talk to me then, sweetheart.”

“I want to live forever with you.” you spoke as strongly as you could, letting your thoughts fall into the night air, “I want to marry you and have babies with you and live life with you.”

“God, my love, I want that too. So badly.” George whispered, caressing your face in his hand and he swiped his thumb over your cheek. “We’d have such pretty kids too, don’t you think?”

Your bottom lip trembled and you scrunched your eyes closed with a bow of your head to keep him from seeing your emotion.

George tisked sadly and sat up a little, lifting your head in his hands so you were looking at him and his thumbs brushed the few stray tear drops from your cheeks, “Don’t cry. Please don’t cry.”

“I’ve been waiting so long for this...to tell you that I am in love with you...that you are my other half and all my perfect dreams rolled into one stunning man…” you set your hand against his bare chest with a shaky sigh.

“Baby, I’m not perfect.” George chuckled gently.

“To me you are.” you whispered.

He leaned up to kiss your lips softly, ever so gently, sharing a few small chasté kisses as his hand looped around the back of your neck. When you pulled back from his lips, you rested your forehead against his and you both sighed softly in unison.

“My heart beats for you.” you breathed, taking his free hand from the blankets to rest against your chest over your thin dress.

George smiled softly at the feeling of your strong heartbeat under his hand and he wrapped his arm farther around your shoulders for a closer hug. You nuzzled your face into his neck and with the hand that wasn’t holding yourself up on the ground, tucked it around his back.

“I don’t want you to go either.” George finally whispered, his voice barely audible over the rush of the waves crashing upon the shore nearby.

You held him tighter as if never wanting to let him go, shifting to hold him with both arms and you let out another sob into his shoulder. His hands rubbed up and down your back and he shushed you lovingly, holding you as you cried. You didn’t care who heard you, letting your sorrow echo down the empty beach and over the dark ocean to the ends of the island.

George’s bare skin was warm and addicting and you held him close as if savouring each inch of his body for any future reference. Your tears dripped onto his shoulder and your sobs muffled into his neck, shameless crying out your emotions to the person you wanted more than life itself.

“You’re breaking my heart, sweetheart.” George whispered, his voice wavering.

“Don’t let me go, Georgie.” you begged.

“Darling.” George sighed, holding you tighter. “Oh, sweetheart, I’m right here.”

“Are you real?” you asked softly, repeating the very first question you asked him when you walked in on him sitting on that cloud-like king size bed. You sat back on your knees and took his face in your hands as if to analyze him, from the line of his jaw to the tears shimmering in his blue eyes. “Are you really you?”

“Yeah, baby.” George whispered. “But...tomorrow...when you get on that plane...I’ll be back in Monaco and I won’t have any memory of this. At all. I will wake up at home and think that I was just in the city the whole weekend with memories they gave me to fill in the gaps.”

You sniffled as he took your hands from his face and kissed your knuckles one by one as you breathed out a shaky, “You won’t remember me?”

He shook his head.

“You won’t remember this island or making love all afternoon and all night?”

George left your hands with one more kiss as he smiled sadly and raised his eyes up to yours, “None of it.”

Your nose scrunched up in near agony and you couldn’t help but press a hand to your heart as if to try and dull the pain. You rested your forehead against his and he held your one hand in both of his as if he never was going to let you go. You had twelve hours left together but it didn’t feel like enough. Time was slipping by like sand in an hourglass.

“Listen,” George leaned back from you to meet your teary gaze, “let’s have some water and just...cuddle quietly for a bit. It’s beautiful out here.”

You nodded weakly and wiped your eyes with the heel of your palm as he shuffled down the blankets towards the small wooden table. He lifted the water pitcher, only to reveal a small pot of ink topped with a thin silver sewing needle. You moved to sit properly on the blankets as George grabbed the two newly appeared items from the table and stared at them for a moment. He looked over at you.

“What is that?” you asked quietly.

You could nearly see his brain turning with thoughts, his eyebrows furrowed in the cutest little expression as he pieced together the two small items in his hands. Finally, he disregarded the water and he hurried to sit at your side once more.

“Photographs and notes don’t work.” George explained quietly as if someone on the empty beach would be listening into your conversation, “They both will go blank the second you leave the island, right?”

“Right.” you listened quietly.

“But they can’t erase something that is permanently part of someone.”

“I dunno...they made lingerie randomly appear on me.” you mumbled.

George laughed lightly and shifted to sit crossed legged, “Clothes aren’t permanent.”

“What are you doing?” you asked cautiously.

George set the end of the needle between his lips so he could unscrew the cap of the ink bottle. He carefully took the needle in his fingers once more and then held it in the flame of the candle to disinfect it, “I’m going to tattoo your name on my body so I can force myself to remember you.”

You swore your heart skipped a beat as you stared into his eyes through the warm faded light of the fairy lights surrounding you, “What? Are you sure that’s gonna work?”

“Worth a shot.” he shrugged. He dipped the sharp point of the needle into the black ink.

“What if it doesn’t?” you mumbled, watching carefully as he shifted across from you and pulled his right foot onto his opposite thigh over crossed legs.

George glanced back up at you with an honest smile, “Then you better be damn good at convincing me.”

“George…” you started but he already pressed the tip of the sewing needle into the skin of his ankle. Your eyes widened as you fell into silence and he spelt the first letter of your name with a steady hand and a few dips of ink.

It was honestly as romantic as it was slightly stupid. The lines were a little wobbly and his cheeks were flushed pink as his teeth bit hard into his bottom lip through the sharp pain of the stick and poke tattoo he was giving himself.

“When you get on the plane tomorrow-” George hissed softly as the needle poked a nerve but he carried on, “you’re going to ask the pilot to take you to the airport in Nice.”

“George...I dunno…”

“Hey,” he looked up at you seriously, “don’t George me, okay? Do you want me? Did you mean that? That you’re in love with me and you want me for life?”

“Of course.” you answered easily.

“Good because it’s too late now...I already have half your name inked into the side of my foot.” George said, wiping the excess ink and bit of blood off his lower ankle with the edge of one of the blankets you were sitting on. Two full letters were pressed ungracefully into his skin.

You smiled softly at him and he returned it as both of you leaned in for a few gentle kisses. He told you he loved you in a whisper as quiet as the tropical breeze ruffling through the starry night and you said the same, kissing him once more before he focused back on his task at hand.

“When you get to Monaco…” George continued as he worked, his words a little strained at the pain he was injecting into his body, “you’re going to find the café that’s directly across from the Casino…I go there every morning for breakfast. Got that?”

You nodded.

“You’re going to wait for me there.”

“What if I miss you?”

“Find a hotel and try again the next morning.”

“What if she’s with you?”

There was a pause and George glanced up at you before dropping his head back down quickly to his ankle, “She won’t be.”

“How do you know?”

“I don’t want to think about her right now, sweetheart.” George protested gently yet firmly, “Especially not when I have you here.”

“What if you won’t leave her for me? What if you don’t remember and this doesn’t work and you won’t believe me when I try to convince you-”

George reached out for you quickly, “Baby, baby, baby, baby, stop.”

You took a shaky inhale, “Georgie, I can’t go through that rejection to my face. Through a screen kills me enough, I…I can’t.”

“Stop. Listen to me, okay? Listen.” George held the needle carefully in his right hand and slid his left up to hold the side of your face. “You’re the only one I want. You’re the only one I feel such a connection with. You’re the only one I’ve fucked unprotected.”

The both of you shared soft chuckles.

He spoke strongly, “You are mine.”

“But are you mine?” you tried.

“Yes.” George said straightly. “I’m yours. My heart is yours.”

You nodded and he sent you a tight smile before turning back to the ink pot and his stained skin. The ocean breeze ruffled through his messy brown hair and you took that quiet moment to admire him in the light from the string of lights that twisted together above your heads.

You spoke without thinking, “I want this to work.”

“I know. Me too.”

“I want this to work so badly I might cry.”

George glanced up at you and your nervous expression and he smiled sweetly, “No more crying, darling, look.”

You followed his gaze back down to his ankle that presented the uneven inked lines spelling your first name across his skin. He wiped it clean with the edge of the blanket and raised his foot up as he doubled over to blow a soft puff of air over it, nearly falling over in the process.

“You’re a part of me now.” he whispered, his gentle voice carried by the tropical breeze.

“I love you.” you breathed. “You’re insane.”

He raised his eyes from the fresh tattoo to your face and he leaned in to kiss you softly, “I love you too.”

You spent the night on the beach, cuddled up in the set up island of blankets and pillows on the sand. You slept in each other’s arms until the fairy lights burnt out and the moon set and tide turned and you woke up to a beautiful sunrise. You didn’t question how the sun could both rise and set over the same horizon since on Fantasy Island even the craziest things seemed to be made into reality. If only it was at all easy.

George let your head rest on his chest as the sun came up, his hand twirling through the ends of your hair as he laid back on the pillows and you laid with him. As the day rose and the chirp of animals and birds filled the beach, you let your eyes close once more to focus all your senses on the man in your arms. You inhaled him strongly, savouring his soft natural scent with the ever slight lingerance of his evening cologne and the remanence of salt water.

He kissed you good morning, letting you taste his lips and his tongue as much as you wanted between slow sensual kisses as his hands gripped your body closer. You kissed the sun awake until it was well above the horizon and it was time to return to your room.

Step by slow step back to the resort was painful and you held George’s hand tightly the whole way. He had pulled his shirt back on from the night before and it hung open off his shoulders, still giving you a perfect view of his abs that you teasingly ran your finger across as he unlocked your hotel room door.

Your suitcase was already packed and waiting by the door when you stepped inside and you took one last look at the room in which you met. George’s arm slid around your waist and he kissed your neck from behind, swaying you slightly in place and you both seemed to stare dreamily at the king size bed as if it were calling you back. The sheets were pulled tight, unslept in, since you spent the night on the beach and they were taunting you to come ruin them.

As if to interrupt your forming ideas, the host of the island appeared in the doorway and greeted you politely to usher you to the plane. George took your hand and you grabbed your suitcase in your other and you trailed behind her as she led the way to the dock. When she wasn’t looking, too busy greeting the pilot, George lifted his right foot up slightly to show off the small black ink tattoo of your name still on his ankle. You smiled at him and he raised your joint hands to his mouth to kiss yours sweetly.

The pilot took your bag for you to load into the plane and you were permitted a moment to say your goodbyes.

You turned to George and both of your hands fell into each other’s, your eyes meeting in the bright sunlight that warmed the island like the very same day you arrived there. He smiled at you, his expression obviously hesitant, and you mirrored his attempt at a grin back.

“I love you.” you whispered, taking your hands from his to wrap around his shoulders.

George let out a sigh and snaked his arms snugly around your waist, “I love you too. So much. Don’t forget that.”

You nodded and slowly slid back from his embrace, pausing just long enough to share a kiss. Or three. You rested your foreheads together with soft sighs and your eyes closed for just a moment as if to savour your last few seconds together. It could very well be your last time.

“I’ll wait for you.” you breathed.

George nodded and brushed your noses together, “Okay.”

You dusted your lips over his and you both opened up ever so slightly and ever so slowly for one last kiss. You felt the warmth running through you, shooting near electricity down your spine until your lips broke apart with a soft smack. With a gentle lick, you tried to memorize the taste of each other for one last second before you were being ushered down the dock.

George stuffed his hands in the pockets of his shorts and stood with the host as you boarded the biplane and found your seat. The pilot closed the door and buckled up and started the engine. The propellers whirled to life and he glanced back at you,

“Where are we headed, ma’am?”

You looked out the window of the plane, catching a last glimpse of George who stood on the end of the dock with the host. The wind from the plane propellers ruffled his hair and his eyes squinted in the bright sunlight but he smiled and raised his hand in a last wave as the plane pulled off across the water.

“Nice, France.”

You sat in the corner of the coffee shop, suitcase at your side, and gaze unwavering from the glass entry doors across the brown trimmed café. There was no food or beverage in front of you since you were far less than hungry; your stomach churned with anxieties from landing in a strange city for the farthest stretch of a chance you could take. It all felt ridiculous. You felt foolish. None of this had to be real.

Finally, through the front windows, you saw a white convertible Mercedes pull into the parking lot and instantly your heart was in your throat. From the distance, you could just make out the figure of the man as he parked the car, donning sunglasses and a soft styled mess of brown hair, and your stomach erupted in butterflies. He looked just as perfect as he had on the island but the scattering of hickeys down his neck were missing and the sunkissed tan was more faded as if he had never been there. Your eyes followed him as he hurried across the parking lot and into the shop where you sat. He was alone.

He didn’t notice you - you were now a stranger after all - and you let yourself have a moment in the background to admire him. He wore another white button up tucked into creased slacks, looking so effortlessly stylish. The designer watch was a given and the near noon-day sunlight glinted off the silver fastenings as he approached the counter.

You were too far away to hear him order but you made out some sort of breakfast sandwich and a drink amidst the café radio music playing through the speakers and the chatter that surrounded the small sitting area. When he pulled out his credit card and waited for the machine to prompt his payment, he haphazardly bent down slightly, raised his right foot, and scratched at his ankle with a confused scowl. A blur of black was caught by your eye before it disappeared under his pant leg again as he sighed and stood up straighter once more, raking his fingers through his hair in near tired confusion.

You stood before you could second guess, taking a hesitant step towards him as he tucked his card back in his wallet. He didn’t notice you. No one else did either.

“George.”

Your own voice startled you, especially with how wavering and unsure it was...how nervous you sounded. It would be easy to pass as an adoring teenager like that.

His eyes raised to yours at the call of his name and his gaze alone sent those perfect shivers down your body. He seemed to give you a once over as you took another step closer as if he was trying to place where he had seen you before.

“George...I…” you struggled to find the words, as if the long plane ride had not been filled with you making up scripts in your mind as to what you would say to him in this moment. His confused expression made you nervous and you could feel the tears of disappointment and frustration already brimming in your eyes. You could only gesture haphazardly to his right pant leg before you were at a loss for words.

He slid his wallet into his pocket, face full of confusion, and followed your quick gesture to his right ankle. The random appearance of that messy blank ink tattoo had startled him that morning and he looked back up at you slowly, eyebrows furrowed gently in the middle as to how you knew it was there. This stranger in a coffee shop.

He breathed your name in the form of a question; the same name that had been inked into his skin at a time he didn’t remember. The blessing of your name from his lips felt like the warmth of that familiar tropical breeze and the memories of your fantasy weekend together seemed to flick like pages of a storybook between you.

You could nearly see his features soften with his realization and you let a gentle smile tug at your lips, your voice a breath of relief, “George.”

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tammyfortis

5 months ago

Not the same anymore

Summary: After ending his three-year-long relationship due to his friend’s influence, Lando tries everything to get his lover back.

Note: I’m back!!! The winner of the poll I set up was loud and clear! I hope all of you enjoy reading this story as much as I enjoyed writing it! P.s buckle up this one is a long one!

Reader x Lando Norris

Genre: fluff/angst

I had been dating Lando for three years, and our relationship was everything I could have ever hoped for. We met at an event, our eyes locking from across the room. He was so handsome, his smile blinding, and I knew right then that I had to talk to him. Except I was too shy to approach him. At that moment it felt like the universe heard me and made Lando approach me. We talked all evening long and we hit it off instantly.

From that moment on, we were practically inseparable. We spent hours talking and getting to know each other, our bond growing stronger with every conversation. I still remembered vividly how he had made me laugh until my sides hurt, how he listened with genuine interest to every word I said.

I remembered the excitement and anticipation when he asked me out, the butterflies in my stomach when he first held my hand. It felt like a fairy-tale come true, and I knew from that moment on that he was the one for me. We shared so many moments of joy, of happiness, and even the occasional disagreement, but we always worked through them together.

At first, I tried not to worry, thinking it was just a phase, but the changes in him only became more pronounced. He was less responsive to my texts and calls, and he seemed to prioritize spending time with his friends over me. I felt lonely and confused, unsure of what had caused this sudden shift.

Lando invited me to his place, and I was excited. I thought he was doing just the same, planning to spend some quality time together.

However, as soon as we found ourselves alone, Lando's face was serious, and my heart started to pound. I knew something terrible was about to happen.

Lando sat down next to me, his gaze fixed on the floor. There was a long, heavy silence before he finally spoke.

"We need to talk," he said, his voice almost a whisper.My heart dropped. Those words... they were never good.

I sat there, feeling the dread settling in my stomach. I knew whatever was about to come couldn't be good. Lando took a deep breath, but his face remained serious.

"I think... we need to break up."

I felt as though all the air had been sucked out of the room. Break up? The words hung heavy in the air, and my mind struggled to process them.

"W...what?" I managed to choke out, my voice shaking slightly. "Why, Lando?"

He avoided my gaze, his fingers fidgeting nervously. "It's just... I need to focus on my career right now," he said, his voice robotic, like he was reciting lines. "Being in a relationship is a distraction, and I can't let it interfere with my goals."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. He was throwing away our three years together with such ease, as if it meant nothing. I tried to reason with him, to remind him of all the happy memories we had shared.

"We've been together for three years!" I said, my voice rising in volume. "Why is it suddenly a problem now?"

"I need to be 100% focused," Lando insisted, finally meeting my eyes. "It's not just about the amount of time, y/n. It's about the current moment, and right now, my career is my priority." He sounded almost cold, like he was pushing me away.

I felt tears welling up in my eyes, but I fought them back. How could I mean so little to him, that he would discard our relationship so easily?

"What about us, Lando? What about everything we've been through together?" I pleaded, my voice shaky.

He remained stoic, his expression unchanging. "I'm sorry, y/n," he said, his tone lacking emotion. "But my mind is made up."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. It felt as though he was a stranger, a shell of the man I had fallen in love with. “You don’t mean any of it! You’re just stressed.”

Lando seemed to snap. "My friends were right," he said, his tone sharp. "This is for the best. Now, I don't need the distraction of a relationship, and I'm better off without you."

His words felt like a stab in the heart, and I couldn't hold back the tears any longer. I wanted to defend myself, to challenge him, but his friends were the last thing I wanted to bring up.

But I couldn't help it. "Your friends?" I shot back. "They're the worst! All they care about is partying, drinking, and living off your money.”

Lando's expression darkened, his eyes narrowing. "Don't you dare talk about my friends like that," he snapped, his tone filled with resentment. "They're the ones who are always there to support me, unlike some people."

I couldn't hold back anymore, the emotions boiling over. "Unlike some people? Are you kidding me?" I retorted, my voice cracking. "Who was there for you when you were doubting yourself? Who stayed up late with you, listening to your worries, pushing you to keep going? Wasn't it me?"

He looked stung, but he shook his head, trying to uphold his cold facade. "That's not how things work," he said stiffly. "My career is my top priority, and I don't have time for anything else."

I felt my own anger rising to match his. "So, you're telling me three years of love, support, and understanding mean nothing to you? Just throw it all away for the sake of your career?"

Lando stood up, his face tense. "The decision is made. I don't need a distraction right now, and that's what you are. A distraction." His words felt like a slap in the face.

My heart shattered, each word breaking another piece of it. How could he turn our love into nothing more than a mere bother? How could he talk to me like this? But I couldn't let myself break down fully. Not here, not in front of him. I clenched my fists, trying to hold back tears and keep my composure.

"Fine," I said, my voice cold. "If I'm just a distraction, then go ahead. Focus on your oh-so-important career." I crossed my arms, trying to hide how much his words had hurt me.

"And you know what, Lando?" I continued, my voice rising. "Your friends? They're all using you. They're not true friends; they're just there 'cause you're famous and rich."

Lando's face twisted in anger at my words. "How dare you talk about my friends like that?" he sneered, his tone spiteful. "They're the ones who have supported me through everything. They're true friends, unlike you. Maybe that's why I'm better off without you."

My eyes narrowed. He had crossed a line. How dare he? "At least I never used you. I loved you for you, not for your fame or your money," I shot back.

He laughed, a humorless, bitter laugh. "Love? Please. You only liked being with a famous guy. The attention it brought you, the luxury. Let's not pretend this wasn't also about status for you."

I felt my fist clenching so hard it hurt. "You know that's not true," I said through gritted teeth. "I never cared about your fame or money. I loved who you were, or at least who I thought you were."

"Oh, really?" Lando challenged, his tone sharp. "Then why didn't you ever say no to the fancy parties or designer clothes I bought you? Don't pretend you didn't enjoy it."

I felt like my chest was tightening with every one of his accusations. How could he twist things like that, making it seem like I only cared about his money? It was so far from the truth. The minute those words left his mouth I knew it was his friends feeding him these lies about me.

"Those were gifts, Lando," I said, my voice cracking. "I loved them because they came from you, not because they were expensive!"

I didn’t let him speak as I grabbed my bag, my hands shaking with emotion. "Fine. Just don't contact me ever again," I said, my voice cold and void of emotion. "This is over. You’re not the same anymore.”

I walked out of his place, my steps heavy and numb. I didn't look back, afraid of seeing him or breaking down in tears. I just wanted to leave, to get away from his words that echoed in my head, and the painful ache in my heart.

As I stepped outside, the fresh air felt like both a relief and a cold slap in the face. I hailed a taxi, and as I watched the familiar streets pass by, I felt as though my old, happy life had shattered into pieces. I had given him everything, and he had thrown it all away for his stupid career. I would never make that mistake again, I promised myself.

Lando sat in his place alone after she left, the silence of his now-empty home weighing heavily on him. He started thinking about the breakup, feeling a pang of guilt, but quickly pushed it aside, remembering that he had chosen his career over her. It was for the best, he told himself, repeating what his friends had been telling him.

As the hours passed, the guilt started to fade, numbed by the pain and the alcohol he poured himself. He eventually called his friends, and they eagerly agreed to come over, happy to hear he had broken up with his now ex-girlfriend.

They arrived, with smiles on their faces, their eyes glinting with anticipation. "Finally, you get to live a little without that distraction!" one of them said, slapping Lando's back. "We're gonna party hard tonight, man! You deserve it."

Lando felt himself slipping into a numbing haze, the alcohol dulling his emotions and his conscience. He allowed himself to be guided by his friends, their words like sweet poison, promising him that he was better off without me, that he wouldn't miss her. They started planning their night out at a flashy new club, their enthusiasm infectious in Lando's alcohol-doused state.

Lando found himself nodding along, his resistance fading away with each drink. The idea of partying seemed like a good escape, a way to drown out the guilt and the loneliness. He convinced himself that tonight, he would let loose and forget, throwing himself into the nightlife and the company of his so-called friends.

As the night progressed, Lando found himself increasingly affected by the alcohol he had consumed. The world started blurring at the edges, and his thoughts became a jumbled mess. He grabbed his phone, his fingers clumsy as he fumbled with the buttons. After several clumsy taps and misdialed numbers, he finally managed to dial Max's number.

As the call went through, he heard Max Fewtrell answer from the other end. "Lando? What the hell, it's 3 am, are you drunk?"

Lando let out a chuckle, his voice slurred. "Heyyy, Maxxy," he said, his words tripping over themselves. "You sound so grumpy. Come ooon, I need to talk to youeee."

Max sighed, rubbing his eyes, trying to shake the sleep from his voice. "Lando, this better be important. I was trying to sleep, you know." His tone was annoyed, but the concern was evident under the surface.

Lando ignored Max’s tone, his mind swimming with alcohol-induced impulsiveness. "I need to talk, buddy," he said, his words stumbling over each other. "It's about y/n."

Max sat up in his bed, his annoyance fading in the face of Lando's evident distress. He cleared his throat, trying to sound more awake and alert. "Okay, Lando, I'm listening," he said, his voice steady.

Lando took a deep breath, his words slurred. "Max, I messed up, I really messed up," he slurred, his voice cracking. "I broke up with y/n, and man, I feel like crap. I miss her, Max. I miss her, and it... it hurts, Max, it hurts so much." The line of words came out in a jumble, the weight of his emotions too heavy to hide under his inebriated state.

Max let out a sigh, his concern growing with Lando's admission. "Okay, Lando, listen to me. Stay exactly where you are, and for god's sake, don't go anywhere else. Tell me the name of the club, and I'll come get you."

Lando mumbled the name of the club through the phone, his words a bit muffled. "It's... uh, it's called 'The Neon Lights.' It's that new club in town, very fancy. Can't miss the neon lights," he hiccuped.

Max sighed, rubbing his temples. "Alright, Lando. I'm on my way. Just don't do anything stupid. Just stay put and wait for me." Max quickly got dressed, leaving his bed behind for the task ahead.

Max drove as fast as he could, and reached the club soon. He spotted Lando right away. His best friend was sitting outside, next to a homeless man, laughing loudly in his inebriated state.

Max couldn’t help but roll his eyes at Lando's current predicament. He approached them, giving the homeless man a nod in greeting. "Alright, Lando, let's go," Max said, reaching out to grab Lando by the arm to help him onto his feet.

Lando tried to protest, but his words came out as a muddled mess. "No, wait! I was just having a talk with him!" he argued, hiccuping. He tried to pull away from Max, but his balance was too shaky. "He's a cool guy, Max. Look!" Lando gestured at the homeless man, his movements exaggerated.

Max shook his head, trying to keep his composure. "Lando, stop making a fool of yourself. Let's go, you're coming with me." He gently led Lando away, making sure he didn’t stumble and fall.

By now, a few people from the club were giving them odd looks, amused by the sight of an apparently famous driver being a mess outside. Max just focused on guiding Lando away, thankful no one had recognized him. "Come on, buddy," he said softly, his arms holding him steady.

Lando put up minimal resistance, his limbs heavy and uncooperative. He tried to protest but his words only slurred together, making it impossible to understand. His legs felt like jelly, and he let Max guide him to his car, his head spinning from the alcohol.

Once they reached the car, Max opened the passenger door for Lando, gently guiding him into the seat. Lando slumped in with a groan, his eyes flickering. Max secured Lando's seat belt, making sure he was as safe as he could be in his current state.

As they arrived at Lando's apartment, Max helped Lando out of the car, his feet dragging sluggishly. Walking him to his bed was a challenge, as Lando leaned heavily on Max. With effort, they finally made it to the bedroom, where Lando practically flopped onto his bed, groaning as his head spun.

Max was concerned about Lando, still inebriated and vulnerable. He grabbed some medication and water, placing them on the bedside table for when Lando woke up. He covered Lando with a thin blanket, making sure he wouldn't be cold in the night. He left quietly, making a mental note to check on him in the morning, closing the door softly behind him.

Max returned to Lando's place the next morning, his concern for him still lingering. He used the spare key Lando had given him and let himself inside the apartment. There was a noticeable silence, the aftermath of Lando's excessive drinking still hung heavily in the air.

Max was in the kitchen by the time Lando trudged down, looking half dead from the night before. His hair was tousled, his eyes bloodshot, and his face pale. He groaned as he spotted Max standing by the counter, a cup of coffee and a plate of breakfast ready.

Max watched as Lando slumped into a chair, cradling his head in his hands. "What the hell were you thinking, Lando? You were drunk off your ass," Max scolded gently, his voice laced with worry.

Lando winced as he lifted his head, his eyes squint to slits. "I... I don't know. Needed a distraction," he groaned, his voice hoarse. The alcohol had taken its toll, and he felt like death warmed over.

Max sighed, pushing the cup of coffee towards Lando. "There are better ways to distract yourself than getting drunk, Lando. What if the media had found out? You could have jeopardized your entire career."

Max paused, his gaze fixed on Lando’s disheveled state. "So who were you with last night? Who was irresponsible enough to let you drink in such a state, and then leave you alone in that condition?"

Lando rubbed his temples, trying to remember through his foggy memory. "Some friends," he mumbled, avoiding Max's accusing stare.

"You know, just some guys I hang out with sometimes. They were partying, and I... I don't know, I joined in." He paused, trying to compose himself. "Then I got drunk and they... they left."

Max’s eyes narrowed, seeing right through it. "Those friends, right? Are those the ones who always use you, Lando? The ones who take advantage of your fame?" His voice was sharp and filled with frustration, knowing exactly how those 'friends' manipulated Lando.

Max’s tone was hard as he continued, his questions probing deeper. "Did they invite you or did they just drag you along with them? Because I know how they are, Lando. They always take advantage of you. They use you for your money, your fame, and never really care about you."

Lando hesitated, his eyes downcast. He knew Max had a point. "I... they invited me," he murmured, his voice barely a whisper. "But I went because I wanted to forget. I wanted to forget her." His voice trembled slightly, the pain he felt creeping into his voice.

Max's ears perked up at the mention of y/n. "Is that why you broke up with y/n, then?" Max's tone softened slightly, realizing this was a sore subject.

"Because you wanted to forget her? To distract yourself from the pain?" He saw Lando wince at the mention of her name, and it confirmed his suspicions.

Lando swallowed hard, the pain in his eyes speaking volumes. "I... yes," he whispered. "I thought if I ended things, it would make it easier, but it's only made it worse." His voice shook with regret, the weight of his mistake heavy on his shoulders.

Max probed further, sensing there was more to this. "Were the friends the ones who influenced you to break up with y/n, Lando?" He had a feeling they were involved, knowing their toxic nature.

Lando shifted uncomfortably, not meeting Max's gaze. "They... they encouraged it, yeah," he admitted, his voice quiet, almost ashamed.

"They kept saying she was holding me back, that a relationship would only hinder my career, and I... I let them get into my head."

Max was furious. He had seen how much y/n loved Lando, how much she supported him at every turn, and now he had thrown it all away because of some 'friends' who didn't care about him. "They're the worst, Lando!" His voice rose. "They don't care about you, not like she does. She's been there for you, through everything. And you let them poison you against her?"

Lando closed his eyes, the reality of Max's words piercing through his foggy mind. Max was right. He had let himself be manipulated by his so-called friends, allowing them to turn him against the one person who genuinely cared about him.

"I know," he whispered, his voice choked. "I messed up. I'm an idiot."

Max sighed, his frustration mingling with a sense of compassion.

"You're not an idiot, Lando. But you made a terrible mistake. You let yourself be led astray by the wrong people. Those friends, they're poison. And y/n... she's the one who truly cares for you. You need to fight for her, Lando. Don't let them ruin what you and y/n had."

Lando admitted, his voice filled with regret and defeat. "It's too late, Max. She has blocked me everywhere. She doesn't want anything to do with me." His shoulders slumped, the weight of his mistake heavy on him. "She probably hates me now, and I don't blame her. I hurt her, Max. I don't think she'll ever take me back."

Max, determined to help Lando, decided to take matters into his own hands. He texted y/n, hoping to plead on Lando's behalf, but Max was met with a cold wall - she had blocked him too. Frustration welled up inside, knowing how much of a hole Lando had dug for himself.

"Lando," he said, his tone heavy, "She blocked me too. This is going to be harder than I thought."

Lando flinched as Max confirmed y/n had blocked him too. It felt like the finality of his mistake, like the door to reconciliation was slammed shut, and he had no way to open it.

"I can't blame her," Lando muttered, his eyes downcast. "I messed up so badly. She's got every right to hate me now."

Lando's phone suddenly buzzed with a text from one of his 'friends,' inviting him out again. But before Lando could even react, Max swiped the phone from his hand, angrily blocking them all.

Lando stared at Max, a mix of shock and annoyance on his face. "Dude, what the hell!" he exclaimed, trying to get his phone back.

Max's expression was serious, his tone firm. "Those friends of yours are poison," he stated, holding the phone just out of Lando's reach. "They're the ones who encouraged you to break up with y/n. They're not your real friends, and I'm not letting them influence you further."

Lando tried to reach for his phone again, his eyes blazing with frustration. "Max, please give me my phone. You can't just block them all! Those are my friends!" He sounded desperate, trying to justify something he knew deep down was wrong.

Max stood his ground, shaking his head. "No, Lando. Those friends are the reason we're in this mess right now. They don't have your best interests at heart. They only care about what they can gain from you. You need to see that!" His grip on the phone remained firm, not giving Lando any chance to retrieve it.

Lando, still hungover and angry, tried to make his case. "But... but they're the only ones who are there for me, Max!" Lando argued, desperation lacing his voice. "They're the ones who party with me when I feel down. They're the ones who go out to clubs while y/n stays home. They're just trying to look out for me."

Max's patience wore thin, his anger boiling over. He threw the phone at Lando with a snap, the device landing on the bed next to him. "Fine!" Max sneered, his voice cold. "Figure it out on your own, Lando. Seems you'd rather listen to those so-called friends than hear the truth. See how far they take you."

Lando flinched as Max threw the phone at him, feeling a mix of guilt and stubbornness bubbling inside. Max's words rang true, a painful reminder of the fact that he was defending his toxic friends over the one person who cared. But in his hungover state, he was stubborn, unwilling to admit his friends were the ones pulling him into a toxic pit.

"Fine!" Lando retorted, his voice rising. "I don't need you trying to control my life! And I don't need y/n. I can do whatever I want with my friends!" He grabbed his phone, clutching it tightly, his anger and resentment towards Max growing.

Max stormed out, leaving Lando alone in that moment, his thoughts swirling like a storm. Lando sat in silence, surrounded by the chaos he had created, and the weight of his choices. Max's absence left him with nothing but his own thoughts and the quiet, empty apartment, the reality of his situation setting in.

Days blurred together as I drowned myself in work, my fingers flying over the keyboard, creating numbers and reports that seemed like a lifeline in this sea of heartache. The silence of my apartment was too loud, so I stayed at the office, working until exhaustion took hold.

My best friend grew worried, her concern palpable, but I couldn't bring myself to open up. Who would even want to listen to my sob story, anyway?

I couldn't even bring myself to think about our breakup, the pain still too fresh. Work was my solace, a way to stay one step ahead of the thoughts that threatened to consume me. I tried to focus on the numbers, the deadlines – anything to avoid confronting the reality of my shattered heart.

But as much as I worked, the pain lingered, refusing to fade away. Every now and then, I'd find myself staring off into space, the memories of our time together flooding back. The sound of Lando's laughter, his warm touch, it all came crashing back in waves that threatened to crush me.

Lost in my own world, the sound of my best friend's voice finally broke through the fog of my thoughts. She had been calling my name for the past five minutes, but I hadn't heard a word, too consumed by my own internal battle. I blinked a few times, trying to shake off the daze.

She stood by my cubicle, her expression a mix of worry and concern. "Y/N, are you okay?" she asked, her voice soft. "I've been trying to get your attention for a while now."

I blinked again, trying to shake off the haze and focus on her words. "Yeah, I'm fine," I lied through clenched teeth, forcing a small smile that didn't quite reach my eyes. "Just really focused on this project." I tried to sound convincing, but I couldn't meet her gaze.

My best friend gently urged, "Y/N, I'm here for you, whenever you're ready to open up. How about a girls' night out tonight? A chance to take your mind off things? You need a break."

Each word felt like a lifeline. She knew just what I needed, an opportunity to lose myself for a moment without the weight of the breakup suffocating me.

The distraction of a girls' night out sounded tempting. I'd have a chance to let go, to pretend things were fine for a while. "Okay," I softly agreed, a small hint of warmth amidst the pain. "A girls' night sounds great. Let's do it."

As the hours passed, I tried to focus on the preparations, changing into something comfortable after my long day of work. But as I stood in front of the mirror, my mind kept wandering, the memories of Lando and the happier times we shared together. I took a deep breath, locking those thoughts away at the back of my mind, and plastered on a smile.

We met at a nearby bar, the noise and laughter a stark contrast to the silence of my apartment.

My best friend tried to engage me in conversation, steering clear of any topics about relationships or exes. The music was loud, the drinks were flowing, and I found myself sipping on my favorite cocktail, letting the alcohol blunt the edges of my pain for just a moment.

As the night progressed, my best friend knew something was still weighing heavily on me. She steered the conversation deeper, her eyes meeting mine in understanding. "Y/N, really, what's going on? I can see something's eating at you."

I sighed, taking another sip. The alcohol had loosened my tongue, and the pain I'd locked away started to slip out.

I hesitated for a moment, then the floodgates opened. The alcohol had loosened my tongue, and with each sip, the words poured out. "Me and Lando broke up," I said, my voice wavering. The pain I'd tried to hide finally came out in the open.

My best friend listened without interruption as I told her everything - the pain, the doubts, the sense of loss. She held my hand, her thumb running across the back of my hand in a comforting gesture, allowing me to release all the emotions I had been holding in.

The pain intensified as I allowed myself to acknowledge it again. "I still miss him," I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper, "but I can't go back to him. Not after everything he put me through."

My best friend stayed silent, letting me take the lead, listening without judgment, offering reassurance with her hand, holding mine firmly.

Her words were gentle, yet comforting. "You're strong, Y/N," she said, squeezing my hands. "It hurts, and it's hard, but you'll get through this. I'm here for you every step of the way."

Her words provided solace, reminding me of my own strength, even when I felt like I was crumbling.

She was right; I had gotten through tough times before. This, too, would pass. I tried to hold onto those words, a glimmer of hope in the midst of hurt. I wiped away my tears, taking a deep breath, trying to regain some semblance of composure.

After hours we decided to call it a night. As my best friend dropped me off at my apartment, the night's diversion ended, and the silence of my apartment fell heavily around me.

The momentary respite from the pain had come to an end, and the reality of being alone set in again. I tried to ignore the loneliness, the emptiness without Lando. Instead, I got ready for bed, trying to find solace in routine.

I reached for my phone in an attempt to distract myself from the memories that kept invading my thoughts. But as I opened it, I was met with a barrage of social media updates about Lando and me - our pictures together, speculation, and the truth I had been trying to escape. The pain hit me all over again as I saw others asking about our breakup, theories swirling around me.

f1gossippofficial

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f1gossippoffical Trouble in Paradise? Fans have suspected that Formula One driver Lando Norris has broken up with his girlfriend Y/N. The pair have unfollowed each other on all platforms and haven't been seen together in months. This suspicion was confirmed after fans saw Lando getting drunk at a club without his partner, living his life. What do you think happened? Follow for more updates!

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loveformywags2 What? Is this confirmed? This can't be right?! 🥲

lalalandlando4 He deserved better anyways 🤷‍♀️

f1maniaclvr Do y/n and Lando know about this? 🤦‍♀️

pookielanscar481 It's just odd that he was seen being drunk out of his mind without her

mam4you81 That's what I was thinking... What if she broke up with him and he's drowning himself in alcohol?

nanalalaf14 Honestly I don't think so, I think he dumped her since he had stopped interacting with her on his socials while she still liked and commented on all his posts.

4everf1loca NOOOOO my sheilaaaaa 😭

As I scrolled through the comments, reading the theories about us, a bitter realization hit me. They were only seeing the surface, the façade we had carefully crafted for the public. If only they knew what had really happened, the pain, the reasons behind our breakup.

The comments were full of speculation and curiosity. People thought they knew our love story, but they knew nothing. They didn't see the fights, the lies, the coldness between us. Their theories felt like a slap in the face, mocking the reality of our relationship.

All I knew at this moment was that I should take the time to heal and not let anyone ruin this for me.

Months had passed since the breakup, and I had finally made significant progress in my healing journey. Though the memory of Lando and our heartbreak still lingered, I had come a long way. I had focused on myself, investing time in hobbies, spending quality time with my friends, and allowing myself to heal.

I had established boundaries, avoiding social media and news about Lando that would reopen the wounds. I started a new project at work, pouring my energy into something productive. Slowly, I felt like I was rebuilding myself.

Right now, I was sat with my best friend, enjoying lunch together. My phone buzzed with a notification from an old group chat I had almost forgotten about. It was the group chat I used to be part of, with Kika and Alex.

When I opened it, I was greeted with a flood of messages, the group hasn't been active ever since my break up. So I was curious to see what this was all about.

My best friend, curious, noticed the notification that I had checked my phone. She gave me a questioning look, asking, "What was that about?"

"It's an old group chat from two of my WAG friends," I explained. "They want to catch up during the next GP."

My best friend raised her eyebrow, visibly curious. "And are you going to go?" she asked, her voice gentle but eager to know.

"At first, I didn't really want to go because of... well, Lando being there," I admitted, a mixture of hesitation and bravery in my voice. "But then I thought why should I let him dictate what I do? I shouldn't be scared of him, right?"

I paused, my determination showing through. "So, yes, I agreed to go."

My best friend's face lit up with happiness as she heard my decision. "I'm so proud of you!" she said, her pride shining through. "You're not letting him hold you back or influence you anymore. That's such a huge step forward, and you should be proud of yourself."

For a moment, seeing my best friend's proud expression filled me with a surge of bravery. She was right; I wasn't letting Lando affect my decisions anymore. I was taking control of my life again, one choice at a time.

As I laughed with my best friend, the weight of Lando gradually faded into the background. We continued talking, laughing, and enjoying our lunch together. Lando's name didn't come up in conversation. For now, he was just a distant thought, overshadowed by the joys of friendship and healing.

Lando stood in the McLaren garage during the Silverstone GP, his entourage of fake friends surrounding him in his papaya-colored driver overalls. They joked, laughed, and offered their hollow support, all while he got ready for the race.

Amidst the laughter, Lando's thoughts turned to y/n. He missed her, the void she had left in his life was still present, gnawing at him. He had tried to reach out, creating new accounts, but he found himself blocked at every turn, silence his only reply. It was as if the universe itself was holding back any chance of them reconnecting, driving home his deepest fears and regrets.

Lando snapped out of his pensive state, focusing his mind back on the race ahead. He had a job to do, after all. With a firm tone, he told his friends to stay put, to relax and enjoy the race while he got ready. His determination was evident, a momentary distraction from his heart's constant ache.

Lando quickly realised that he had forgotten his phone. As he retraced his steps to retrieve his phone, he heard muffled voices from within his driver's room. Curious, he stopped before he entered, straining to hear the conversation inside.

Michael chuckled, his voice dripping with amusement. "Can you believe Lando was so stupid to break up with her?" Sam agreed wholeheartedly, a sneer on his face. "She was perfect for him, a distraction holding him back from his true potential."

Jake snorted. "Yeah, she was a total inconvenience, always nagging and taking up his time and money. Good riddance, I say."

They shared a cruel laugh, satisfied with their opinions. The conversation between Lando's fake friends revealed their true intentions - to have Lando's undivided attention, away from someone who truly cared about him.

They continued their conversation, mocking y/n's influence on Lando. Michael spoke with a mischievous grin. "It was a piece of cake convincing him. He ate up everything we said like a fool."

John snorted in agreement. "Yeah, we made sure he saw her as a hindrance. Now we have him all to ourselves, no competition."

James interjected, a cruel glint in his eyes. "We convinced him she was holding him back, that he needed to focus on his racing. We even convinced him she was just after his money. Classic play."

They chuckled, pleased with the web of lies they had spun. Michael added, "He doesn't even know what's good for him. We'll keep him under our control, keeping his attention and his wealth all to ourselves. He's too naive to see through us."

Sam, the schemer, couldn't contain his glee. "This has been the easiest con ever. Lando's so trusting, so foolish. We just have to keep filling his head with our lies, and he'll do whatever we want."

Lando, his heart heavy with the revelations, stormed back into the room, anger seeping through his every feature. His fists clenched, his eyes darkened in fury. He couldn't believe how easily he had been manipulated, how blind he had been to the deceit around him.

"How could I be so stupid?" he bellowed, staring down the group.

The group of fake friends froze, their faces stunned. They stared at Lando, wide-eyed, their laughter abruptly silenced. They hadn't expected Lando to return so soon, or to have overheard their malicious conversation.

Lando's voice trembled with a mix of fury and pain. "I can't believe I let you manipulate me like this!" His eyes burned with a potent blend of anger and regret. He stepped closer, his voice filled with a mixture of disgust and hurt. "You were behind all of this, convincing me to break up with her, making me think she was holding me back."

The friends, caught off guard, tried to scramble for excuses. But Lando's words cut through their attempts to justify themselves. Michael spoke up, his voice trembling, "We... we were just looking out for you, Lando. We thought she was holding you back. We wanted what's best for your career, that's all."

Sam chimed in, trying to appease Lando. "We were trying to help you, Lando. We saw how she was distracting you, taking up your time and money. You need to focus on your racing. You're our golden goose!" He forced a fake chuckle, hoping Lando would buy into the manipulation again.

Lando clenched his fists, his body trembling with fury. "You didn't care about what's best for me. All you cared about was having me all to yourselves, using me for my fame and money. You manipulated me, turning me against the one person who loved me truly."

Jake tried to interject, his voice oozing with false concern. "Lando, we did care about you. We just wanted to protect you from a bad influence. We didn't want you to be taken advantage of." He attempted a manipulative smile, trying to deflect the blame onto me.

Lando's voice rose in intensity, his anger boiling over. "Don't you Dare talk about her like that! She was the only one who genuinely cared about me, not you. You're just jealous because she didn't let you use me like you do. You're nothing but a bunch of leeches!"

Michael, emboldened by Lando's anger, smirked, his words sharp. "Don't you dare blame us. This is on you, Lando. You were the one who was too stupid to see through our facade. Now you've lost her because of your own damn foolishness, not our fault in the slightest."

Lando, seething with a mix of hurt and anger, quickly called the security guards. With a firm voice, he instructed, "Get these snakes out of here now!"

The security guards, recognizing the tone of a man pushed to his limit, swiftly entered, escorting the fake friends out of the garage. Lando stood there, watching them leave, a bitter taste in his mouth.

As the fake friends were forcefully escorted out, Lando was left alone in the garage, the weight of his emotions crashing down on him. The pain, the regret, the anger—it all slammed into him, finally giving way to the torrent he had held back for so long.

He slumped against a wall, his body trembling with the force of his emotions. Tears prickled in his eyes, his breath coming in ragged breaths.

As Lando sat there, the regret gnawed at him, growing sharper by the second. He thought about y/n, the love he had lost. The memories of their time together flooded his mind, and he berated himself for throwing it away. He blamed himself for listening to the friends who had manipulated him.

He thought about the love they shared, how he had let it slip through his fingers, shattered by his own foolishness and vulnerability to their lies.

Lando, still in a vulnerable state, decided to reach out to Max, despite their rocky past. He thought about the clubs and the disagreements they had had, but he had no one else to turn to now. With a mix of regret and desperation, he dialed Max's number.

Max picked up the phone, immediately sensing the desperation in Lando's voice. As Lando poured out his emotions and apologies, Max listened, his tone softening.

Lando confessed, his voice cracking, "I should have listened to you, Max. You were right about them, all along. I was a fool to listen to their lies and ignore you."

Max, surprised but relieved, replied, "I'm glad you realize now, Lando. Those friends were toxic. They used you, and I tried to protect you, but I understood, now." Max's words were sympathetic, understanding Lando's turmoil, even though they had their differences.

Lando confessed, his voice trembling with a mix of regret and desperation. "Max, I miss her, I miss y/n so much. I'll do anything to get her back, anything at all. It's the biggest mistake I've ever made."

Max fell silent, his concern deepening. He didn't know the extent of Lando's mistreatment of her.

The mention of y/n stirred worry in Max. He gently asked, "Lando, you know I didn't want you to break up with her. But why do you think you mistreated her? Can you tell me about that?" Max's tone was cautious, sensing that there was more to the story than he knew.

Lando hesitated, knowing he had a lot to unpack. Max's curiosity fueled a mix of fear and guilt inside Lando. He knew he had to come clean, even though it was painful to admit.

Taking a deep breath, Lando began to confess, his voice shaky. "I... I treated her badly, Max. I hurt her, ignored her, and took her for granted."

Max couldn't help but wince, knowing there was a deeper issue.

Lando's voice cracked with remorse. "They fed me lies about her. They convinced me that she was holding me back, that she wasn't good enough. I believed them, and I treated her poorly."

Max, as supportive as possible, tried to provide words of encouragement. "Lando, that's rough. You've made mistakes, but the first step is admitting it. You know you messed up; now it's about making amends."

He sighed, "Lando, remember that true love isn't about perfection. It's about growing together, learning from mistakes, and valuing someone despite their flaws."

He paused, his voice serious. "But you've got to show her you mean it. Words are easy, but actions will be your proof. Are you ready to do that?"

Lando, though shaken and determined, nodded, his voice firm. "Yes, Max. I'm ready. I want to prove it to her. I'll show her I've changed and that I'm serious about making amends."

Max and Lando continued talking, their conversation growing shorter as Lando had to prepare for the race. As they bid each other goodbye, Max reminded Lando, "Stay focused during the race. Clear your mind; that's important, too."

Lando, though his mind was heavy with emotion, took Max's words to heart. He knew he had to compartmentalize his feelings for now and focus on the race ahead. He focused on the tracks, his car, and his performance, pushing aside his turbulent emotions for the moment.

I stepped into the grand prix feeling a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. The grandstands, the roaring fans, and the smell of rubber and fuel in the air brought back a whirl of emotions. Seeing the tracks where Lando and I used to share moments filled me with nostalgia and a pang of heartache.

My thought were interrupted by two voices. Kika and Alex, my two closest friends, ambushed me with warm hugs, pulling me into their embrace. Their cheerful voices cut through the noise of the Grand Prix, and I felt a mix of relief and joy. It had been a while since we had been together.

"Y/N! You made it!" Kika exclaimed. "We've missed you so much!"

Alex chimed in, grinning widely. "We've been dying to hang out with you! It's been ages." She playfully pinched my cheek. "You look great, by the way."

"Oh, stop it! I didn't do anything special. You two, on the other hand, are the real stars here. Look at you!" I playfully nudged them both, my tone teasing and lighthearted.

Kika and Alex beamed, clearly enjoying the compliment. "Alright, alright, enough with the flattery," Alex said, feigning exhaustion. "We're here to have a blast. You ready for this?"

I sighed one more time while looking around before replying. "More then ready."

We made our way to our favorite hangout spot at hospitality. It was cozy, far from the chaos of the track. As we settled in, surrounded by comfortable couches and tables, a mix of nostalgia and anticipation washed over us.

"I've missed this place," Kika said, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "So many memories, right?"

We spent hours catching up, sharing stories, laughter, and heartfelt moments. The conversation flowed easily between us, like old times. Laughter echoed in the cozy space of the hospitality center, and our spirits were lifted. Time seemed to slip away as we bonded and supported one another. Eventually, the time came for Kika and Alex to head back out; their respective significant others were getting ready for their races.

Kika and Alex rose from their seats, their faces slightly apologetic. "We have to go," Kika sighed.

Alex nodded, adding, "Come find us later, okay?"

I gave them both a nod, understanding their commitment to support their boyfriends. "Of course, we'll catch up after the races. Good luck to them!"

Kika and Alex shared one last embrace, their hugs warm and reassuring, then they left to get to their respective spots by the trackside.

As they left, I was left to navigate the grandstands, finding my spot amidst the sea of fans. I blended into the crowd, the anticipation in the air as the racers prepared for their engines to start.

The race concluded, but it felt bittersweet. Lando's face was everywhere - on the screens, the winners' podium, the trackside banners. Seeing him in his natural element, celebrating victories, stirred mixed emotions in me. The pain of missing him and the hope of reconciliation blended together in a complicated mix.

After a bit, I decided that I needed to use the restroom so I headed that way. I made my way to the private VIP restrooms, my VIP pass granting me access. The restroom was clean and spacious, offering a respite from the noise outside. I checked my reflection in the mirror, taking a moment to compose myself.

As I exited the restroom, I was lost in my thoughts, only to bump into someone in the hall. I froze, instantly recognizing Lando's familiar voice. His figure stood in front of me, and I felt my heart skip a beat. His gaze met mine, and time seemed to stand still.

Lando called out for me, his voice filled with surprise, "y/n." His eyes held a mix of shock and tenderness, his voice holding a hint of the emotions he was trying to keep at bay.

As the words hung in the air between us, my heart raced. His presence was so close, the warmth of his voice sending a shiver down my spine.

I got out of my stance, trying to leave, I tried to walk past him, but Lando blocked my path, stopping me in my tracks. I felt a wave of emotions crash over me - pain, anger, hope, and a deep longing all mingled together. The intensity of it was overwhelming, and I tried to suppress it.

Lando's voice was hesitant and filled with vulnerability. "Y/N, please…can we talk? Just for a moment."

His request was sincere, his eyes pleading with me not to walk away.

I shook my head, my resolve firm. "No, Lando. I can't and I don't want to." I replied, my voice resolute. The pain from our breakup was still too fresh, and talking to him now would reopen wounds I wasn't ready to confront. I tried to move past him, my expression set with determination.

Lando's face fell, a mix of hurt and resignation evident. He saw my determination, my refusal to engage. He took a step closer, his words soft but desperate, "Please... just hear me out."

My frustrations boiled over. "Don't you think it's ironic? Now you want me to hear you out, when you never listened to me when you decided to end things," I retorted, my voice filled with a mix of anger and sadness.

Lando winced at my words, the truth of them hitting him hard. "I know... I made a mistake," he said, his voice tinged with regret. He was trying to find the right words, his eyes pleading with me to give him a chance.

Lando's expression twisted, the guilt evident on his face as he processed my response. The words cut deep, the truth behind them undeniable.

"A mistake?" I repeated, my voice dripping with bitterness. "You ruined me."

I continued, my words raw.

"I spent months wondering what was wrong with me, why you ended a relationship of three years for a fake friendship that didn't even last a year. Where are those 'friends' who supposedly supported you through everything? I don't see them here, Lando."

Lando looked down, ashamed. He had no answer. His fake friends were nowhere to be found, leaving him alone to confront the consequences of his actions. The weight of his mistake seemed to grow heavier.

He finally managed to gather his thoughts, his voice a mix of guilt and sincerity. "I messed up. I don't expect you to forgive me right now. But please, let me explain." He took a step closer, his regret etched on his face, silently begging for my understanding.

I raised an eyebrow, my words sharp. "Explain? What's left to explain? You threw away three years of us for a group of shallow friendships. What could you possibly say to make this better?"

Lando knew my words hurt, but he was desperate. "I was blind. I was a damn coward," he confessed. "I allowed myself to be manipulated by my so- called friends, and in the process, I hurt you."

He continued, his voice tinged with regret and shame, "I saw them as my real friends, but now I realize they only saw me as a way to elevate their social status." He sighed, his shoulders slumping. "They saw you as a threat, someone who could expose their true intentions. They convinced me you were holding me back, when in reality, they had me blinded."

His voice trembled as he continued, "I let myself believe their lies. They filled my head with jealousy, making me doubt our relationship, and I was stupid enough to listen to them." His vulnerability shone through, his emotions raw.

I nodded, my expression guarded. "I'm glad you've recognized your mistakes, Lando. But can you imagine the pain I've experienced because of them, because of you?"

My words conveyed a mix of grief and resentment. The hurt I suffered remained a palpable presence, a constant reminder of the pain he had caused.

Lando nodded, a heavy sigh escaping his lips. He knew he couldn't take back what he had done. The time he spent believing those fake friends and ending our relationship had shattered something that couldn't easily be repaired. He understood the depth of my suffering, a consequence of his blind trust and foolishness.

Lando looked at me, his expression sincere, and asked if we could try again. He voiced his regret, hoping for a chance to make things right. The hope in his eyes was clear, but the weight of the past lingered between us. He wanted to rebuild, to fix what he had broken.

He pleaded with me, his voice filled with remorse. "I know I don't deserve a second chance, but I want us to try again. I want to prove to you that I've changed, that I won't let those fake friends influence me anymore. I'll do whatever it takes."

I shook my head, my voice resolute. "No, Lando. I'm still healing, and right now, I don't want to try again. I need time, space. I can't just forgive and forget in a snap."

My words were firm, expressing my current inability to jump back into a relationship after everything I had been through.

Lando, his voice filled with sincerity, looked into my eyes. His gaze conveyed the depth of his regret and determination. "I understand," he said. "I will wait for you, for ten years or more," he promised. "I'll be here when you're ready, no matter how long it takes."

As we concluded the conversation, Lando stood there, his heart heavy with the weight of our future hanging in the balance. He watched me leave, a mix of emotions coursing through him: regret, hope, and an ache of longing. He had to accept that he couldn't rush our healing process, no matter how much he desired to be by my side.

I walked away, my eyes misty, the past and the uncertainty of our future intertwining in my thoughts.

f1gossippofficial

Liked by formula1_news, wagscloset, formula1_gossips and others

f1gossippoffical Months after their break-up, Lando Norris and Y/N have been spotted after the Silverstone GP. Sources state that the ex-couple were arguing, what the argument was about is still a big question. Many suspected it was because of a third party being involved. Thoughts about this one?

View all comments

lazyformulaland Bro leave them alone, they're both adults. Let them solve this in peace ffs. 🙄

lvr4lan Noooo Lando honey this isn't you run!

wagslov4 Did he pick you yet ? 🙄

bbpiastri81 What the hell is going on

norriswithrizz4 This is insane, the main focus of formula one isn't even on formula one anymore smh 🤦‍♀️

4everyours4ln Y'all are too invested, leave my girl y/n alone.

momolew16 Forreal the girl didn't ask for this

closetofpeacefashion7 Exactly she was finally thriving and then this happend. It doesn't even look like she wanted to talk to him

mayyoushush8 Did she tell you that 🤨

closetofpeacefashion7 @mayyoushush8 Don't be stupid even a kid can see that 🥱

I decided to head back home, not forgetting to shoot Alex and Kika a quick message which they completely understood.

As I reached home, the weight of the evening's emotions crashed down on me. The conversation with Lando had stirred up all the hurt and confusion I had been suppressing. I felt emotionally exhausted and overwhelmed, unsure of what to make of it all.

The silence of my home only amplified my inner turmoil, leaving me to wrestle with my conflicted feelings.

A few days passed after the incident, I decided to move on with life and not let it bother me again. A perfect distraction? Drowning myself in my workload.

I arrived at work as I stepped inside the building, I was greeted by Linda, one of my co-workers.

Linda, approached me with a mischievous grin, her question catching me off guard. "Do you have a secret admirer, by any chance?" she asked, the curiosity palpable in her voice.

I stared at her, confused by her question, wondering why she would draw such a conclusion. I shook my head, puzzled by the idea. "What makes you think that?" I replied, raising an eyebrow.

Linda chuckled, her eyes sparkling with a hint of intrigue. She replied, "Have a look in your office."

Puzzled by her cryptic hint, I made my way to the elevator and reached my office. As I stepped inside, confusion lingered in my mind, wondering what I was about to find.

My eyes widened with shock and surprise as I entered the office, finding a massive bouquet of my favorite flowers. The delicate blooms filled the space with a sweet, comforting fragrance. Attached to the flowers was a note, mysterious and intriguing. My heart fluttered with anticipation as I reached for the note.

My fingers traced the delicate paper of the note, and as I read the words, they stirred a whirlwind of emotions. The poem was written in delicate script, the words flowing like music... and it was about love. Each line spoke of tenderness, trust, and a future filled with hope. The words were so beautiful, it was as if they were carefully chosen specifically for me.

The little poem, written with a tender brush of affection, read:

"From the morning dew to the evening's glow, My love for you continues to grow. Through shadows and light, in every season's rain, Our bond remains, a gentle refrain.

In whispers of joy and moments of peace, I hold you close within my heart's embrace. Each smile shared, each memory we weave, My love will remain a boundless pledge."

I was so confused, who could've been behind this? As I read the poem again, my mind wandered to Lando for a moment. I quickly dismissed that Idea. He had confessed that he couldn't write romantic words, finding them cringeworthy.

If it wasn't Lando, then who would have written such a poem?

As the day wrapped up, I found myself heading home, my mind still lingering on the mysterious poem. Entering my home, I sank onto the couch, exhaustion seeping through my bones. The softness of the cushions welcomed me as my thoughts played through my mind, trying to unravel the mystery.

My thoughts were interrupted by the sudden ring of the doorbell that echoed through my home. It was late in the evening, and I couldn't guess who might be at the door at such a time. With some curiosity and a hint of wariness, I got up to answer.

I went over to the door to open it and I was met with a delivery man. The delivery man handed me a massive bouquet of fresh flowers and a large box of chocolates. The fragrance from the flowers mingled with the scent of chocolate. The combination was almost overwhelming, leaving me baffled as I accepted the gifts.

Now I was even more confused, this bouquet was even bigger than the one from my office. And the weird thing was, that the chocolates I got were only my favorites.

I examined the box of chocolates, finding another note attached to the top. Carefully, I opened the wrapper, retrieving the note. Just like the previous one, it was written on delicate paper, filled with intrigue. I unfolded it, ready to read the message.

As I unfolded the paper, I was met with neat, elegant handwriting. The words held a romantic touch, and I felt a mix of anticipation and curiosity. The second poem spoke of tender love and adoration.

"Your presence brings light to every room, A symphony of grace in each simple bloom. Though we may walk separate paths in life, My heart's allegiance is a ceaseless strife."

I sat there, taken aback by the heartfelt words. They spoke of admiration and deep affection. Who could have written these beautiful poems and left them for me? The confusion deepened, and I pondered who could be behind the mysterious gestures.

Plagued by curiosity, I reached for my phone and called my best friend, hoping for answers. As the call rang, I prepared myself for a wave of questions, expecting her to know something.

My best friend's cheerful voice filled the call, answering instantly. "Hello?" She sounded cheerful as ever, not knowing the mystery I was about to unload on her.

I cut straight to the point, my tone slightly urgent. "Hey, I have a question. So, I've been receiving anonymous flowers, chocolates, and... poems." I paused a moment. "Any idea who it could be?" I asked, hoping for some insight.

She was silent for a moment, her surprise apparent. But then her voice brightened, and I could tell she had a theory. "Oooh, a mystery admirer?" she asked, half-joking, half-curious.

I sighed, rolling my eyes playfully. "Well, yes. It is somewhat mysterious." I replied, unable to hide the hint of unease in my voice amidst the flowers and chocolates surrounding me.

We delved into the mystery, discussing possibilities. From past crushes to unknown admirers, we contemplated various scenarios. But no concrete conclusion surfaced, leaving me even more intrigued and slightly frustrated.

That was until my best friend's insight sparked a new perspective. She pointed out that the mystery admirer seemed to know me well. They knew my workplace, my love for romantic poems, and even my favorite chocolates and flowers. It wasn't just a coincidence; they seemed to have a grasp on my habits. The timing of the delivery was eerily precise, appearing just when I arrived home.

My best friend continued, her voice filled with speculation. "It's not just the flowers and chocolates, it's the timing. They know your work schedule. It's almost like they're watching, waiting for the right moment."

I agreed, thoughtfully absorbing. "Yeah, that's been bothering me. The timing is too perfect. They either know my schedule or they're stalking me." I chuckled, trying to soften the situation with humor.

"Wait!" My best friend suddenly interrupted, a speculative glint in her eyes. "Could it have been Lando?"

The name hung heavily in the air, bringing our conversation to a halt.

I shook my head, quickly dismissing the idea. "No, probably not. Lando doesn't enjoy writing, especially not romantic poems. He always told me he found them cringe."

My bestie nodded, acknowledging my response. "Ah, right. He's not exactly the poetic type, is he?"

I grinned slightly, remembering Lando's disdain for poetic words. "Nope, definitely not. He'd rather punch a wall than write a poem." I joked, the idea of Lando writing a poem seeming far-fetched, even for a moment.

After a while of thinking and cracking our brains open, we ended the conversation, deciding to table the mystery for the moment. We said our goodbyes and hung up the phone, my mind still swirling with questions. I prepared for the night, the flowers and chocolates lingering in the background, their presence a reminder of the mysterious admirer.

Several months passed, and the mysterious gifts persisted, each one more thoughtful and personal. The flowers continued arriving, alongside a new addition - small, handmade tokens. Notes slipped into the bouquet containing thoughtful messages, while a box of my favorite chocolates came with a heartfelt poem.

I sought information, asking friends and family if they knew anything. They were taken by surprise and genuinely had no idea who was behind the surprises. The mystery deepend as everyone denied any involvement.

The mystery escalated. Along with the physical gifts, I discovered a surprise on my phone. Text messages arrived with miniature poems, each one carefully crafted and sweet. The sender's number remained undisclosed, leaving me baffled about the identity.

The messages, delivered alongside the tangible gifts, carried messages that resonated with my emotions and experiences. It felt almost as if this person truly knew me, yet remained hidden behind the anonymity of their identity.

It was that time again - our annual girls' night out. We always looked forward to these nights, a chance to let loose and have a blast in a vibrant club. I had my best friend beside me, ready to dance the night away. The only problem? My best friend chose a club that Lando used to go to every time. She reassured me that he wouldn't be here which I took her word for.

We strutted into the club, excitement filling the air. Music pulsed through the venue, the bass matching the rhythm of our hearts. The lights dazzled the dance floor, and we blended into the crowd, the worries of the day fading in the throes of the nightlife. We decided to hit the dance floor, letting go of any inhibitions as we lost ourselves in the music.

We danced with abandon, the beat pulsating through us, the rhythmic movements our shared language. The neon lights flashed, adding an electric charge to the atmosphere. As we danced and whirled, we felt liberated from the daily grind, living in the moment, lost in the music and the company of my best friend.

Later that night we both got thirsty, I made my way to the bar to get us drinks, when suddenly a man approached me. I could already smell the alcohol on him as he staggered towards me, a lopsided smile plastered on his face.

He smirked, his words coming out in a clumsy manner. "Hey there, pretty lady," he slurred, his tone oozing with an unwanted familiarity. He invaded my personal space, leaning in a bit too close for comfort.

I could feel the warmth of his breath, tainted with alcohol, against my cheek as he spoke. "What's a beautiful girl like you doing here alone?" He tried to flirt, his persistence evident even amidst his intoxication.

I tried to maintain a polite smile, stepping back slightly. "I'm here with a friend," I replied, my voice a mix of politeness and discomfort. I glanced at the bartender, silently praying for my order to arrive sooner so I could escape this uncomfortable interaction.

He chuckled, his intoxication making him clumsy yet bold. "Oh, come on. A pretty girl like you shouldn't be tied down to just one friend. You should let loose and have fun," he insisted, his words filled with a suggestive undertone.

I tried to end the conversation, giving him a firm but polite dismissal. "Thanks, but I'm good," I said, my tone leaving no room for further conversation. I discreetly inched closer to the bar, hoping he would get the hint and leave me alone.

Instead of taking the hint, he persisted. "Oh, come on. Don't be a party pooper. One drink won't hurt," he insisted, his words slurring even more. He took another step closer, trying to close the gap between us.

I felt a mix of discomfort and annoyance as his persistence continued. The smell of alcohol was overwhelming, leaving a cloying odor on the air. I tried to maintain my composure, not wanting to cause a scene but also wanting him to back off.

He took another step closer, his gaze lingering on me. I could see the effects of the alcohol on him - the unsteady steps, the glazed look in his eyes, the clumsy attempts at charm. He reached out, attempting to touch my arm, his gesture too familiar and unwelcome.

The guy got annoyed when I backed away. He reached out, his hand grabbing my arm with a firm grip, trying to pull me back. I felt a jolt of fear as he attempted to drag me.

His hold tightened, his voice a mix of frustration and insistence. "Come on, don't you know how to have fun? Just one drink, a little chat." He tugged at me, his alcohol-fueled stubbornness evident.

I felt a mix of panic and defiance. "Let me go, you sick prick!" I exclaimed, my voice strained. I glanced around, hoping for someone to intervene, but every face seemed lost in their own world, oblivious or uncaring about the situation. The loud music blared, making it seem as if no one could hear my cries for help.

The guy gripped my arm tighter, his eyes filled with a mix of drunken determination. He leaned in closer, his face twisted with frustration. "Why are you making this so difficult? Just one drink, come on."

He forced me into an empty, private room, his grip on my arm still strong, leaving me with a sense of dread. The music was a distant throb outside, leaving me more isolated in this unsettling scenario.

His grip faltered as someone unexpectedly appeared, a figure entering the room with a decisive move. Before the guy could even think of pulling me fully into the room, someone intervened, delivering a well-aimed punch to his gut. The guy groaned, doubled over in pain as he released his grip on me.

The guy fell to his knees, clutching his stomach as the force of the blow rippled through him. Confusion, pain, and shock replaced the smugness from before. I could only watch, relief washing over me as I realized I wasn't alone anymore.

The drunk guy, overwhelmed by the combination of alcohol and the punch, scrambled to his feet before stumbling out of the room, whimpering in pain. The sudden exit left me alone with the mysterious person who had stepped in to save me.

Lando rushed towards me, concern etched on his face. "Are you okay? Did he hurt you?" he asked, his voice filled with emotion. The warm green in his eyes held a mix of worry and relief that I was alright.

He reached for my arm where the drunk guy had grabbed me before, inspecting the area to check if I was hurt. I could feel the tenderness as he gently ran his fingers over the spot, ensuring I was unharmed. Lando then gazed at my face, studying it for any signs of distress.

I gently pulled my hand away, forcing a small smile to reassure him. "I'm okay," I insisted, my voice steady but guarded. His concern was palpable, and I could see the relief in his eyes as he saw that I was not physically harmed.

Lando seemed desperate, unwilling to let me leave just yet. He reached for my arm again, his grasp gentle but firm. "Please, just hear me out," he pleaded, his voice filled with a mix of vulnerability and hope.

My response came sharp, biting. "Why would I? You didn't try to reach out, didn't try to find me, or even show an ounce of concern until now," I shot back, my words laced with bitterness and resentment.

Lando's response came with a mix of frustration and hidden emotion. "I haven't tried? Since our last talk, I've done everything I could to win you back," he retorted, his words carrying a hint of vulnerability. "Who do you think sent you all those gifts? Who else would know your work schedule, your favorite foods, your love for poems? I know I said I hated them, but for you, I embraced them."

His words were layered with hurt and a desire for reconciliation. Lando finally confessed, "It was me, all along. I couldn't bear the thought of losing you forever, so I hoped my gestures would speak for me." The pain in his face was evident, his eyes pleading for understanding.

I stammered at his words, a mixture of surprise and confusion overwhelming me. Never in my entire life I would've thought Lando would do all of this for me. My mind raced as I tried to comprehend the lengths he had gone to reach me.

My voice trembled as I spoke, "So... you were behind those text messages as well? How...? But I blocked all your accounts, even the new ones. How did you manage to send me messages?"

Lando hesitated for a moment, his eyes fixed on mine as he confessed. "I bought a new phone with a different SIM card... just so I could message you." His answer hung in the air, the weight of his dedication palpable in the quiet space of the room.

He continued, his voice earnest, "I couldn't bear the silence between us, the distance. Even if you blocked me everywhere, I had to find a way to reach you, to express how I felt." The depth of his yearning and determination to keep the connection alive was evident in each word.

I remained silent, overwhelmed by his confession. Lando had gone to great lengths just to communicate with me, buying a new phone and SIM card, defying my attempts to cut off contact. The depth of his dedication was both touching and overwhelming. I couldn't deny the mix of emotions swirling within me.

Lando stood there, his eyes searching mine, desperate for a glimmer of hope. The air hung heavy with anticipation as he awaited my reaction, his vulnerability on full display, his heart on his sleeve.

I grappled for a response, my mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. "I... I'm still processing this," I managed to utter, my voice filled with a mix of hurt and confusion. "Why didn't you tell me earlier? Why let me think you didn't care?" I blurted out, a hint of betrayal seeping into my voice.

Lando's eyes filled with remorse, his shoulders slouching slightly. "I was afraid," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "Afraid of being rejected, scared that you would push me away if I tried to talk to you and most importantly scared you would've moved on. I thought sending those gifts and messages would be a way to reach out without directly risking rejection."

I stared at him, taken aback by his honesty. His confession laid bare his fears and insecurities, exposing the vulnerability beneath his usually composed facade. But my hurt remained, the sting of his silence lingering.

I couldn't hide my feelings, and I let my resentment spill out. "But you let me suffer!" I cried out, the pain pouring out in my words. "I thought you didn't care, that you moved on, while I was here, hurting over our broken relationship."

Lando's face contorted with pain at my outburst, his shoulders sinking lower. He took a step forward, bridging the gap between us. "I know, I know," he pleaded, his voice filled with regret. "I was a coward. I let fear dictate my choices, and I hurt you in the process. I'm sorry."

I wanted to believe him, to fall into the comfort of his apology and the sweet gestures he had made, but the wounds of the past remained. The memories of his silence, his refusal to communicate, and the pain I endured still weighed heavily on my heart.

Lando saw the hesitance in my eyes, noticed the barrier I had put up. His expression pleaded with me, a mixture of sorrow and yearning. I could tell he wanted me to forgive him, to let him back in.

"Lando, I'm so conflicted," I confessed, my voice cracking. The wounds of the past still fresh, I couldn't let go easily. "How can I trust that you won't hurt me again? I've suffered so much because of you, how can I be sure you won't do something like this again?" I asked, hoping for an answer that would quell my doubts. The pain was still too raw to simply forgive and forget.

Lando's eyes filled with remorse, his face a mask of sorrow and guilt. He knew he had caused me pain and had no right to expect forgiveness so easily. He stepped closer, the gap between us becoming smaller. With a gentle voice, he spoke. "I don't ask for you to trust me instantly," he said, his voice tinged with sincerity. "I want to prove to you that I've changed, that I won't make the same mistakes again. Please, just give me a chance to show you."

I held his gaze, my eyes pleading for understanding. "I need some time," I implored, my voice shaky. "I can't just forget overnight. Give me the space to process everything, to heal." The emotions coursing through me were overwhelming, and I needed time to make sense of the rollercoaster of events.

Lando's response was gentle and resolute. "I will wait for you. Remember, even if it takes ten years," he said, his voice filled with sincerity and a hint of vulnerability. "I'll be here when you're ready, no matter how long it takes."

I looked back at Lando, his pleading eyes yearning for a reprieve. With a heavy heart, I whispered, "Goodbye," and reluctantly turned away. The music and lights faded as I weaved through the crowd, searching for my best friend who had remained oblivious to the emotional storm that had just unfolded between Lando and me.

I found my best friend in the crowd, her smile lighting up upon seeing me. However, her smile quickly faded as she saw the tears streaming down my face. Without a word, she stood up, concern etched on her face.

She wrapped an arm around my shoulders, gently guiding me towards the exit. "It's okay," she whispered, her voice filled with understanding. "Let's go home."

We stepped out of the club, the cool outside air a stark contrast to the stifling heat inside. We hailed an Uber, and my bestie decided to spend the night to provide comfort and lend an ear.

We settled into the car, the soft hum of the engine accompanying us as we made our way home. I took a deep breath, preparing to recount the tumultuous events of the evening to my best friend.

The Uber pulled up in front of my building, and we disembarked, the night's cool air a stark reminder of the emotional journey I had been through. We made our way into my house, the silence between us filled with anticipation.

We entered my house, the familiarity of the space providing a semblance of comfort. My bestie guided me to the couch, pulling a blanket over us as we settled in for what was sure to be a long night of conversation.

I poured my heart out, recounting every detail, from Lando's apology to the painful memories that still lingered. My best friend listened intently, her eyes widening in surprise and shock as she took in the emotional rollercoaster I had described.

She was stunned, her face reflecting the whirlwind of emotions that had unfolded. "Wow," she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't believe he did all that."

My voice trembled with uncertainty, "I don't know what to do," I confessed, my emotions a tumultuous mess. "I want to trust him, but it's so hard to ignore the pain he caused. It feels like a never-ending cycle of confusion and fear." I rested my head on my friend's shoulder, seeking solace in her presence.

She rubbed my back soothingly, her support an anchor that kept me from drifting further into despair. In a gentle yet reassuring tone, she spoke. "It's okay to feel conflicted. Trust is earned, and forgiveness takes time. Don't rush yourself. Take whatever time you need to figure out what you want." She held me closer, offering her presence as a grounding force amidst the chaos.

My best friend posed the question that echoed within me, "Do you still love him?" The question sliced through the air, digging deep into emotions I had tried to bury.

Hesitantly, I met her gaze, tears glistening in my eyes. "I… I don't know," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.

My friend's words were honest, cutting through the confusion. She persisted, "That isn't an answer, y/n. It's a simple yes or no question." I remained silent for a long moment, my emotions swirling inside. Finally, after an excruciating pause, I whispered, "Fine, yes. Yes, I still love him." The admission hung in the air, vulnerable and raw.

My best friend looked at me, her eyes mirroring a mixture of understanding and support. "Give him a chance," she urged, her voice gentle yet firm. "Don't give in immediately. See how far he's willing to go. If he goes beyond just gifts and gestures, you'll know he's sincere.''

A wave of confusion washed over me, and I turned to her for clarification. "What do you mean, 'beyond gifts and gestures'?" I inquired, the words tumbling out in a whispered plea for understanding.

She seemed to gather her thoughts for a moment, then met my gaze with an earnest expression. "I mean, beyond just grand gestures. Beyond the gifts and the poems. Love is about more than just gestures. It's about genuine care, about being there for each other, through every high and low. It's about trust and communication. Those are the true tests of sincere love," she replied, her words wise and heartfelt.

She continued, her voice steady. "If Lando truly cares about you, he will show it in every aspect of his life, not just with grand gestures. He will prioritize your needs, respect your boundaries, and be there for you, even in the most ordinary moments."

Her words resonated within me, their truth echoing in my heart. It didn't matter if he had sent flowers or sweet poems. Love wasn't just about gifts; it was about presence, understanding, and unwavering support through life's tumultuous journey.

We continued talking for hours, my best friend's words sinking deep into my thoughts. Eventually, we decided to call it a day, both exhausted by the emotional rollercoaster. My mind whirled with questions as we prepared to say our goodnights.

Lando's dedication persisted. In the days that followed, his gestures remained constant. I noticed flowers and chocolates carefully placed on my desk each morning, a poem hidden amidst the petals, and a warm coffee waiting when I arrived in the morning, exactly how I liked it.

Today it was different. I heard a knock on my office door, I replied with a simple 'come in' as the person entered. Lando stood in my office doorway, his hands holding my favorite coffee and a neatly prepared lunch. He spoke softly, concern in his voice.

"I hope I'm not interrupting, but I know you can get forgetful about your nutrition while working. So I brought you something." The gesture warmed my heart, leaving me momentarily speechless.

His willingness to break away from his busy schedule, solely to ensure I took care of myself, touched me deeply.

"Thank you," I expressed gratefully, touched by his thoughtfulness. I had to ask him, curious about the sacrifice of his valuable time. "But aren't you busy? You still made time for this?"

Lando responded, his voice gentle yet sincere. "I'm busy," he admitted. "But I make time for you because you matter to me."

His simple yet powerful response struck a chord within me. In the midst of the busyness of life, he had made time for me, prioritizing my wellbeing. It spoke volumes about his devotion and care, that he was willing to sacrifice his valuable time just to ensure I wasn't neglecting myself.

The sincerity in his eyes and the way he stood in my office doorway, a small lunch in hand, felt overwhelming. It was as if he was trying to prove that he valued our connection more than the hustle and bustle of life.

In the weeks that followed, Lando's gestures became an integral part of my routine. He arrived at my office each morning with my favorite coffee, not missing a single day, even when I forgot it myself. During lunch breaks, he carefully watched over me, ensuring I ate, sometimes even bringing me delectable meals he prepared himself. He began helping me with paperwork, even when he didn't have the expertise—a gesture that left me touched.

Once, when I found a mouse in my apartment, he came at 4 a.m., not hesitating for a moment despite having an early flight.

His devotion continued. In the midst of his travels, he remained constant in sending me thoughtful gifts. The distance didn't seem to matter as his love crossed time and continents.

With each passing day, my heart opened up a little more. His gestures filled my heart with a mix of gratitude, warmth, and a hint of rekindling love.

It seemed like any ordinary day, with Lando on the other side of the world for a race. I was engulfed in my work, my focus solely on the paperwork, to the neglect of myself. Suddenly, my colleague Linda burst into my office.

Linda spoke with concern, her voice filled with worry. "You've been working nonstop. Come on, let's get something to eat." I protested, insisting on finishing my task first, but Linda's stern expression was unrelenting. I agreed reluctantly, rising from my seat. Little did I know, the world was about to spin.

As we walked, I started feeling dizzy, an unfamiliar sensation overtaking me. Linda's voice was heard from beside me. "Sweetheart are you alright?"

"No, no, I'm fine," I quickly reassured Linda, believing I had just stood up too quickly. Yet, before I could take another step, my world slipped away, and I plunged into the darkness of unconsciousness.

Linda witnessed the sudden collapse and hurried to my side, concern filling her voice. "y/n, are you okay?" she asked urgently, but I was unresponsive, the world around me fading into blackness.

The sound of voices echoed in the distance, Linda's voice calling my name. However, the comforting embrace of darkness held me captive.

As I emerged from the haze of unconsciousness, I felt a soothing yet firm hold on my hand. I groaned softly, my eyes slowly creaking open, reluctantly adjusting to the stark brightness of my surroundings.

As my vision cleared, I realized I was in a hospital room. The sterile environment, the soft hum of medical equipment, and the distinctive smell of antiseptic filled the air. I heard someone calling my name, I turned my head, my gaze drifting towards the source of the voice that called my name.

I blinked, still in a state of surprise to see Lando beside me. He looked at me with concern, his presence unexpected given that he was supposed to be on the opposite side of the globe. He spoke urgently, "How are you feeling? Should I call for a doctor?" His worry was evident in his eyes as he waited for my response.

Amidst the haze of confusion and exhaustion, my mind clung to one question. "What are you doing here?" I asked, my voice weak but filled with surprise. "You're supposed to be on the other side of the world."

His response caught me off guard, touching my heart amidst the whirlwind of emotions. "I'm you're emergency contact," he reminded me, and the realization set in.

He had crossed continents and time zones, arriving swiftly on his private jet, driven by his concern for my well-being. I had been asleep for 12 hours, and in that timeframe, he had made his way across the globe to be by my side.

The depth of his commitment touched my heart. Despite the demands of his career, he had flown across the world to be by my side, prioritizing my well-being above everything else. The knowledge that he was my emergency contact made a surge of warmth flow through me. It was a reminder of my significance in his life and the lengths he would go to for me.

I tried to compose myself, my voice still weak, I told him, "You shouldn't have done this. You have important things to attend."

Guilt tugged at me, knowing he had sacrificed his commitments to be here. His racing schedule, his career, everything seemed secondary to his concern for me in that moment.

Lando shook his head, his expression resolute. "I don't care, none of it matters as much as you do," he insisted, his gaze filled with sincerity. He reached out to gently hold my hand, his touch comforting. "Nothing is as important as you," he repeated, emphasizing his priorities.

His words struck a nerve, causing a mix of emotions to rise within me. Tears welled up in my eyes, his unwavering devotion filling me with a combination of gratitude and sorrow. I had doubted him, feared a lack of commitment, yet here he was, proving me wrong in the most dramatic way possible.

His presence in the hospital room, despite the distance he traveled, felt surreal. The sound of medical equipment beeping in the background seemed distant compared to the intense emotions swirling between us. Lando held my hand, his touch warm and reassuring.

In that moment of tender silence, Lando spoke again. His voice was soft, carrying a mix of concern and affection. He squeezed my hand gently, his thumb tracing small circles on my palm. "I was so worried," he admitted, his eyes locked on mine. "Seeing you here in the hospital... was terrifying."

His eyes mirrored the vulnerability he rarely displayed, raw emotions laid bare. The fear he had felt, the concern that gripped him, all visible in his expression. The reality of the situation weighed heavily between us, his emotions palpable and sincere.

I offered a reassuring smile, trying to ease his worries, though the weakness in my voice betrayed my fatigue. "I'm okay," I whispered, exhaustion evident in my words. My weak hand attempted to squeeze his in return, hoping to show my gratitude despite my physical state.

Lando's grip on my hand tightened, his thumb tracing comforting circles on my skin. His gaze remained focused on me, studying my face, searching for any signs of discomfort or pain. He was skeptical of my reassurance, his worry etched on his furrowed brow.

We delved into conversation, discussing random topics, our worries fading into the background. Our chat was filled with laughter and genuine connection. However, our peaceful moment was interrupted when the doctor entered the room for a routine check-up. The doctor informed me that I was discharged, giving me the okay to leave.

Lando assisted me in gathering my belongings, the tenderness in his gestures evident. He carried my bag and carefully guided me out of the hospital room. We paced side by side, making our way to Lando's car parked outside.

We traveled in a soothing silence, the weight of the hospital now off our shoulders. As we reached my place, Lando diligently helped me bring my belongings inside and prepared to leave. But before he could go, he paused and called my name, the sound breaking the tranquility.

I turned my attention his way, meeting his eyes with curiosity. "Yes?" I responded, wondering what was on his mind. His voice had held a hint of hesitation, as if there was something important he wanted to convey.

He inhaled sharply, the weight of his question becoming apparent. He spoke with vulnerability, "There's something I want to ask you. You're free to refuse, but I genuinely want to ask... Will you go on a date with me tomorrow?"

I was initially startled, but the anticipation in his eyes was evident. He swiftly added, "Only if you want it to be a date of course" I could see the sincerity in his gaze. A soft smile tugged at my lips as I accepted his invitation, my voice steady with anticipation. "Yes."

The relief and happiness that washed over Lando's face at my acceptance were evident. His shoulders relaxed, and a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "You'll go on a date with me?" he asked, a mix of surprise and joy in his tone. "Really?"

The vulnerability in Lando's voice hinted at the significance of my acceptance. He was eager to hear my confirmation once more, his eyes glimmering with hope. I smiled warmly, reassuring him, "Yes, I'll go on a date with you."

We bid each other good night, both feeling the exhilaration of the upcoming date. The way we acted mirrored that of teenagers experiencing their first date, a mix of excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. As we exchanged a final glance, our connection felt like a magnetic pull, both eager for the moment to come. The goodbye lingered for a few moments, filled with electricity.

The evening of our date arrived, and my best friend was diligently working on styling my hair, while I focused on applying my makeup. She fussed over my locks, while I carefully applied concealer and mascara to enhance my eyes. My outfit hung on the closet's door, chosen for the evening. The weight of my excitement made my heart flutter in anticipation of the night ahead.

My best friend, brushing through my hair as she styled it, spoke up. "You know, Lando really went above and beyond for you, don't you think he deserves a chance?" she said, emphasizing his efforts.

There was a pause as I met her gaze in the mirror, a mix of emotions coursing through me. I set down my mascara and turned to face her, the weight of her words settling.

She looked at me, waiting for my response, her eyes filled with a mix of encouragement and genuine concern. The reminder of Lando's efforts weighed heavily on my thoughts. He had shown dedication and cared for me, but my past fears and apprehensions lingered, making it hard to fully let go.

I took a moment, considering her words. Inhaling deeply, I nodded, offering a soft smile of agreement. "Yeah, I know," I admitted, my voice a mix of vulnerability and hope. "But it's... it's hard to trust after everything."

I voiced my intentions, my eyes glimmering with determination. "I want to give him a chance," I declared, my resolve strengthened. "Not just a chance, but an opportunity to show me that he's worth trusting." My past pain weighed heavily on my heart, but the hope in my voice was undeniable.

Her squeal of happiness filled the room, echoing her encouragement. "Oh my god, y/n! I'm so happy for you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "You're doing the right thing, giving him a shot. He'll make you so happy!"

She grinned, her excitement infectious. "I can feel it in my bones, this is gonna be great. He's going to sweep you off your feet."

We concluded our primping, with my best friend leaving with a parting "keep me updated, and good luck!" The anticipation in my stomach intensified, a mix of excitement and nerves gripping me. I took another glance in the mirror, taking in my appearance one last time.

I was wearing a black off shoulder dress, that hugged my curves nicely. I paired it with the famous uncomfy YSL heels and matching purse. My hair was styled in a beautiful blow out flowing over my shoulders. I sighed one more time before grabbing my stuff.

The doorbell echoed through the room, signaling Lando's arrival with its gentle tone. My heart leaped in my chest, his presence just outside my door.

I took a deep breath, steeling myself, and then opened the door. Lando stood there, his presence immediately filling the space, and warmth spread through my chest. He looked handsome, his well-groomed appearance evident, but it was his warm eyes and gentle smile that greeted me.

Lando stood before me, a bouquet of vibrant flowers in hand. His expression was one of awe, his words momentarily lost. He managed to compose himself and spoke, his voice filled with admiration. "You look absolutely stunning," he said, his eyes drinking in the sight of me.

The flowers were a beautiful display of color, their delicate petals reflecting the soft light of the hallway. Lando held them out, offering them to me like a bouquet of promises. I extended my hand, taking them with a soft smile, his compliment making my cheeks flush.

We walked out together, arm in arm, the cold evening air washing over us. Lando guided me to his car, opening the passenger door and helping me inside as a gentleman. As we settled in, the city lights danced outside, casting a cozy ambiance in the car.

We arrived at the restaurant, a charming Italian bistro with soft lighting and a cozy ambiance. Lando got out, rushing to open my door, offering a hand to help me out with a soft smile. The scent of fresh herbs and garlic filled the air, a promise of a delicious meal to come.

We stepped inside, the warmth wrapping around us. The atmosphere was romantic, with soft music playing in the background. Lando guided me to a table by the windows, pulling out my chair before taking a seat himself. Candles flickered on the table, casting a soft glow over everything.

We settled into our seats at the table, the ambiance around us serene and inviting. The waiter approached, greeting us warmly and setting menus before us. The scent of fresh bread and delectable aromas wafted from the kitchen, fueling the anticipation for the meal ahead.

Lando spoke with confidence, knowing my preferences. "What do you want to get?" he asked, but before I could respond, he answered himself, "No, I know already. Let me guess... the carbonara." A smile tugged at my lips as he remembered my favorites so effortlessly. I replied, "You know it," a mix of affection and appreciation filling my voice. His attention to detail and memories of things I liked made my heart swell with warmth.

The night unfolded, filled with lively conversation and laughter. Time seemed to stand still as we lost ourselves in our connection, the sound of others around us fading into the background. It felt as if the world had narrowed down to just us, an intimate bubble filled with shared laughter, stolen glances, and shared stories.

As the night drew to a close, neither of us wanted it to end. Lando paid for the meal, and I thanked him with genuine gratitude. We decided to take a stroll, drawn to a nearby bench that offered a view of the water. As we settled onto the bench, the gentle moonlight illuminated the night, casting a silvery glow over the water's surface.

I broke the comfortable silence, my voice soft and sincere. "Lando?" I began, my words carrying heartfelt appreciation. "I really enjoyed today. Thank you," I expressed, my eyes glimmering with warmth as I looked at him.

Lando met my gaze, a soft smile playing at his lips. He spoke with sincerity, his voice filled with warmth. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," he replied, his eyes mirroring the appreciation in mine. "It means the world to me that you had a good time. I truly enjoyed every moment with you."

I addressed the elephant in the room, acknowledging the immense effort he'd put in. "You know, you really have gone above and beyond for me these past months," I said, my tone sincere.

It had been a challenge to regain my trust, and Lando's consistent gestures had played a significant role in rebuilding it. His eyes glimmered with a mix of vulnerability and hope, absorbing my words.

Lando's voice was quiet as he responded, his tone sincere. "I know I have, but every moment of it was worth it," he confessed, his emotions clear in his eyes.

"I wanted to show you that you could trust me, that I would go to any lengths to earn your trust," he added, his voice filled with a mix of vulnerability and earnestness.

I continued, my questions flowing out. "What about after we get back together? Would you still care about me like this" I inquired, my eyes searching his.

Lando's expression shifted, vulnerability and sincerity mixing in his gaze.

"After we get back together, I want to cherish every moment even more," he admitted, his voice filled with sincerity. "I want to support you, care for you, and be there for you through anything. I want to keep building on the trust we have and make our relationship stronger than ever."

His sincere words found their way to my heart, a tenderness washing over me. The vulnerability in his expression, combined with his commitment to cherishing our relationship, stirred something within me.

I spoke up, my voice soft but filled with resolution. "I think," I began, "I'm ready to be yours again."

Lando stood up, his eyes wide with disbelief, his emotions overwhelming him. He wrapped his arms around me, lifting me off the bench in a tight embrace.

As he spun us around in a whirlwind of joy, he spoke with heartfelt conviction, "I won't disappoint you ever again. I love you so much."

His hands remained on my waist, a tender touch that seemed to anchor me. I felt a surge of warmth and contentment as I replied with a giggle that turned into laughter, sharing in Lando's excitement.

"I love you too, Lan," I confessed, my eyes glimmering with affection

Lando's grip on my waist tightened as he pulled me into a passionate kiss, a fusion of his emotions and desires. The softness of the moment contrasted with the intensity of our feelings, the kiss sending a surge of electricity through my body. I melted into his embrace, returning the kiss.

As the kiss intensified into a make-out session, I reluctantly pulled away, the reminder of Lando's fame echoing in my mind. However, Lando was unfazed, his response quick and resolute.

He shrugged off the potential consequences, insisting, "Let them see. I've got my girl back, and that's all that matters." His smile was filled with a mixture of certainty and passion as he pulled me back, their lips meeting once more in a toe-curling kiss that seemed to defy any outside concerns.

The moon shone down, lighting up the night as Lando wrapped his arm around my shoulder, pulling me close, and we walked back to his car. The air held a delicate sense of anticipation, and as we drove away, I nestled my head against Lando's shoulder, feeling safe and cherished.

Gratitude and affection swelled within me as I realized I had given Lando another chance, and that my heart had bloomed open once again. I smiled, my thoughts swirling with appreciation and love for the incredible journey we were about to embark on.

The end

833 notes View Post

tammyfortis

8 months ago

Unremembered

Max Verstappen x Reader

Summary: imagine looking the love of your life in their eyes and seeing a stranger stare back — but Max doesn’t have to imagine, not when this is his reality

Warnings: serious injury and memory loss

The roar of the V6 engine fills Max’s ears as he navigates the twists and turns of the Zandvoort circuit. It’s the first practice session of the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, and Max is in his element, pushing his Red Bull to its limits.

Suddenly, his race engineer’s voice crackles through the radio. “Max, box this lap. Come back to the garage.”

Max furrows his brow, confused. “What? Why? The car feels fine.”

“Max, just box now. It’s important,” GP insists, his tone unusually stern.

Reluctantly, Max steers his car into the pit lane, frustration building. As he pulls into the garage, he notices an unusual flurry of activity. His performance coach, Rupert, is waiting with a grim expression.

“Max, out of the car. Now,” Rupert says urgently.

Max climbs out, yanking off his helmet. “What’s going on? Why did you pull me in?”

Rupert takes a deep breath. “Max, I answered a call on your phone while you were out there. It was the hospital.”

Max’s heart skips a beat. “The hospital? What”

“It’s about Y/N,” Rupert says softly. “She was in a car accident on her way here. It’s ... it’s serious, Max. They’ve taken her to the trauma center.”

The world seems to tilt on its axis. Max grabs Rupert’s arm to steady himself. “What? No, that can’t ... is she okay?”

Rupert shakes his head. “I don’t know. They didn’t give me details. But they said you should come right away.”

Without another word, Max bolts towards the exit. Rupert calls after him, “I’ll drive you!”

The car ride to the hospital is a blur. Max stares out the window, his mind racing. “This can’t be happening,” he mutters. “We were just talking this morning. She was excited to watch practice ...”

Rupert glances at him sympathetically. “Try not to assume the worst. Y/N’s tough. She’ll pull through this.”

Max nods numbly, willing himself to believe it. They screech to a halt outside the emergency entrance, and Max is out of the car before Rupert can even put it in park.

At the reception desk, Max’s words tumble out in a panicked rush. “My girlfriend was brought in. Car accident. Y/N Y/L/N. Where is she?”

The nurse types rapidly. “She’s in surgery right now. If you’ll have a seat in the waiting area, the doctor will come speak with you as soon as possible.”

Max paces the waiting room like a caged animal, running his hands through his hair. Rupert tries to calm him, but Max barely hears him. After what feels like an eternity, a doctor approaches.

“Are you here for Y/N Y/L/N?”

Max nods frantically. “Yes, I’m her boyfriend. Is she okay?”

The doctor’s expression is grave. “She’s out of surgery now. The accident was very serious. She has multiple broken bones and internal injuries. We’ve stabilized her, but ...”

“But what?” Max demands, his voice cracking.

“She suffered a significant head injury. There’s swelling in her brain. We won’t know the full extent of the damage until she wakes up.”

Max sways on his feet. Rupert steadies him with a hand on his shoulder. “Can I see her?” Max asks weakly.

The doctor nods. “She’s in the ICU. I must warn you, she’s heavily sedated and on a ventilator. It may be distressing to see her like this.”

Max follows the doctor down sterile hallways, his heart pounding. When they reach Y/N’s room, he freezes in the doorway. The sight of her lying there, battered and bruised, hooked up to machines, is like a physical blow.

He approaches the bed slowly, tears welling in his eyes. “Y/N,” he whispers, gently taking her hand. “I’m here. You’re going to be okay. You have to be okay.”

Hours pass. Max refuses to leave her side, holding her hand and talking to her softly. Nurses come and go. Rupert brings him coffee that goes cold, untouched.

As evening falls, Max notices her fingers twitch. He leans forward eagerly. “Y/N? Can you hear me?”

Her eyelids flutter, then slowly open. Max’s heart soars. “Y/N! Oh, thank God. You’re awake. How do you feel?”

But something’s wrong. Her eyes are unfocused, confused. She looks at Max blankly, then around the room in bewilderment.

“Where ... where am I?” She croaks, her voice hoarse from the ventilator tube that was recently removed.

“You’re in the hospital,” Max explains gently. “You were in an accident, but you’re going to be okay now.”

She frowns, struggling to process. “An accident? I don’t ... I don’t remember ...”

Max squeezes her hand reassuringly. “That’s okay. Don’t worry about that now. I’m just so glad you’re awake.”

But she pulls her hand away, shrinking back slightly. Her eyes narrow as she studies his face. “I’m sorry, but ... who are you?”

***

Max’s world comes crashing down with those three simple words. He stares at you, his mouth agape, unable to process what he’s just heard. The room suddenly feels too small, too hot, too bright.

“Who ... who am I?” Max repeats, his voice barely above a whisper. “Y/N, it’s me. It’s Max. Your boyfriend.”

You shake your head slowly, wincing at the movement. “I’m sorry, I don’t ... I don’t know you. I don’t remember having a boyfriend.”

Max’s heart shatters into a million pieces. He takes a step back, running a trembling hand through his hair. “Okay, okay,” he mutters, more to himself than to you. “The doctor said there might be ... complications. This is just temporary. It has to be.”

You watch him warily, confusion and fear evident in your eyes. “I don’t understand what’s happening. Why can’t I remember anything?”

Max takes a deep breath, trying to steady himself. He needs to be strong for you, even if you don’t know who he is. “You were in a car accident,” he explains gently. “You hit your head pretty badly. The doctors said there might be some memory loss, but ... I didn’t think ...”

His voice trails off as he sees tears welling up in your eyes. “I’m scared,” you whisper. “I don’t remember the accident. I don’t remember coming here. I don’t even know what day it is.”

Max instinctively reaches out to comfort you, but stops himself, realizing his touch might not be welcome. “It’s okay to be scared,” he says softly. “But you’re not alone. I’m here for you, even if you don’t remember me right now.”

A nurse enters the room, breaking the tension. She smiles warmly at you. “It’s good to see you awake. How are you feeling?”

You turn to her, relief evident in your voice. “Everything hurts and I’m so confused. I can’t remember anything.”

The nurse nods sympathetically. “That’s not uncommon with head injuries. Try not to worry too much. Your memories may come back gradually as the swelling in your brain goes down.”

Max interjects, his voice tight with worry. “But she will remember, right? This isn’t ... permanent?”

The nurse’s expression turns cautious. “Every case is different. We’ll need to run some more tests now that she’s awake. The neurologist will be by soon to evaluate her.”

Max nods numbly, feeling like he’s trapped in a nightmare he can’t wake up from. The nurse checks your vitals and adjusts your medication before leaving the room.

An uncomfortable silence falls. You fidget with the edge of your blanket, avoiding Max’s gaze. “So ... we’re together?” You ask hesitantly.

Max nods, a sad smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah, for almost two years now. We live together in Monaco.”

Your eyes widen. “Monaco? But I’m ... I’m not rich. At least, I don’t think I am.”

Despite everything, Max can’t help but chuckle. “No, but I am. I’m a Formula 1 driver. That’s why we were here in the Netherlands. It’s race weekend, and you were coming to watch me practice.”

You shake your head in disbelief. “This is so strange. It’s like you’re talking about someone else’s life. I can’t imagine dating a famous race car driver.”

Max’s heart clenches at your words. He pulls out his phone, scrolling through photos. “Here,” he says, holding it out to you. “Maybe these will help jog your memory.”

You take the phone hesitantly, swiping through picture after picture of the two of you together. At the beach, at fancy galas, cuddled up on the couch. In every photo, you both look blissfully happy.

“We look ... so in love,” you murmur, your brow furrowed in concentration.

“We are,” Max says softly. “Or at least, we were. I still am.”

You hand the phone back, your expression troubled. “I’m sorry. I wish I could remember. You seem like a really nice guy, and clearly we had something special, but ... it’s all blank.”

Max swallows hard, fighting back tears. “It’s okay. It’s not your fault. We’ll figure this out together, I promise.”

Just then, a doctor enters the room. “Ah, good to see you awake,” he says briskly. “I’m Dr. Smeets, the neurologist on your case. How are you feeling?”

You explain your symptoms and memory loss while the doctor makes notes. Max hovers anxiously in the background, hanging on every word.

“Well,” Dr. Smeets says finally, “the good news is that your physical injuries are progressing nicely. The memory loss is concerning, but not entirely unexpected given the trauma to your brain.”

“Will she get her memories back?” Max asks, unable to keep the desperation from his voice.

The doctor’s expression is guarded. “It’s impossible to say for certain. Retrograde amnesia can be unpredictable. Sometimes memories return quickly, sometimes it takes months or even years. And in some cases ...”

“Some cases what?” Max presses.

Dr. Smeets sighs. “In some cases, the memories never fully return. But,” he adds quickly, seeing the stricken look on Max’s face, “that’s relatively rare. The best thing you can do is be patient. Surround her with familiar people and places. Sometimes sensory triggers can help unlock memories.”

Max nods, clinging to that small hope. “Thank you, doctor. What’s the next step?”

“We’ll keep her here for observation for a few more days, run some more tests. After that, assuming there are no complications, she can be discharged to recover at home.”

After the doctor leaves, Max turns to you with forced cheerfulness. “See? That’s good news. You’ll be out of here soon, and then we can go home and work on getting your memories back.”

You shift uncomfortably. “I don’t know if I’m ready for that. Going ... home with you. I mean, you seem great, but you’re still a stranger to me.”

Max feels like he’s been punched in the gut, but he forces himself to nod. “Of course. I understand. We’ll figure something out. Maybe you can stay with your parents for a while?”

You nod, looking relieved. “That sounds better. I remember my parents, at least.”

An awkward silence falls. Max clears his throat. “Do you want me to call them?”

“Would you mind? I don’t even know where my phone is.”

Max steps out into the hallway to make the call, grateful for a moment to collect himself. When he returns, you’re looking out the window, lost in thought.

“They’re on their way,” Max says softly. “They’ll be here in a few hours.”

You turn to him, your expression softening slightly. “Thank you. You didn’t have to do that.”

Max shrugs. “Of course I did. I care about you, even if you don’t remember that right now.”

You study him for a long moment. “Can you ... can you tell me about us? How we met, what our life is like? Maybe it’ll help bring something back.”

Max’s heart leaps at the request. He pulls a chair closer to your bed and begins to talk, recounting the story of your relationship. How you met at a charity event, how nervous he was to ask you out, your first date at a little Italian restaurant in Monaco.

As he speaks, you listen intently, searching your mind for any flicker of recognition. But the memories remain frustratingly out of reach, like trying to grasp smoke.

“I’m sorry,” you say finally, interrupting his story about your first vacation together. “None of this is ringing any bells. It all sounds wonderful, but ... it’s like you’re talking about someone else’s life.”

Max tries to hide his disappointment. “It’s okay. The doctor said it might take time. We just have to be patient.”

You nod, but your expression is troubled. “What if ... what if I never remember? What if these memories are just gone forever?”

Max takes a deep breath, steeling himself. “Then we’ll make new ones,” he says firmly. “I love you, Y/N. That hasn’t changed. If I have to make you fall in love with me all over again, I will.”

You look at him, a mix of emotions playing across your face. “That’s ... that’s incredibly sweet. But what if I’m not the same person anymore? What if the me you fell in love with is gone?”

Max shakes his head vehemently. “That’s not possible. You’re still you, even if you can’t remember everything right now. The core of who you are, that hasn’t changed. I know it.”

You don’t look convinced, but you offer him a small smile. “I hope you’re right.”

Just then, a commotion in the hallway catches their attention. Your parents burst into the room, faces etched with worry.

“Oh, sweetheart!” Your mother cries, rushing to your bedside. “We were so worried!”

Your face lights up with recognition. “Mom! Dad!” You exclaim, reaching out to hug them.

Max steps back, giving your family space for their reunion. He watches with a mixture of relief and jealousy as you interact easily with your parents, the rapport between you unchanged by your memory loss.

After a few minutes, your father turns to Max. “Thank you for calling us, and for being here with her.”

Max nods, swallowing the lump in his throat. “Of course. I wouldn’t be anywhere else.”

Your mother looks between Max and you, sensing the tension. “Is everything okay?”

You bite your lip, looking uncomfortable. “Mom, I-I can’t remember Max. Or anything about our relationship. The doctor says I have amnesia from the accident.”

Your parents exchange worried glances. Your father puts a comforting hand on Max’s shoulder. “I’m so sorry, son. This must be incredibly difficult for you both.”

Max nods, not trusting himself to speak. Your mother turns to you. “But surely you remember something? You and Max have been so happy together.”

You shake your head sadly. “I’m trying, but it’s all blank. I’m sorry.”

An awkward silence falls over the room. Finally, your father clears his throat. “Well, the important thing is that you’re going to be okay. We’ll figure out the rest as we go.”

Max nods in agreement, but inside, he’s screaming. How can he just stand by and watch as the love of his life slips away? But he knows he has to be patient, to give you space to heal and hopefully remember.

“I should probably go,” he says reluctantly. “Let you have some time with your family.”

You nod, looking relieved. “Thank you for staying with me. And for ... for everything.”

Max forces a smile. “Of course. I’ll be back tomorrow, if that’s okay?”

You hesitate for a moment before nodding. “Yeah, that’s fine. Maybe ... maybe you can bring some more photos? Or videos? Something that might help trigger my memory?”

Max’s heart swells with hope. “Absolutely. I’ll bring everything I can think of.”

As he turns to leave, you call out softly. “Max?”

He turns back, his breath catching in his throat. “Yeah?”

You give him a small, uncertain smile. “I’m glad I have someone like you in my life. Even if I can’t remember it right now.”

Max blinks back tears as he nods. “Always,” he whispers. “I’m always here for you.”

***

Max trudges into his hotel suite, the weight of the day pressing down on him like a physical force. He closes the door behind him, leaning against it for a moment, eyes closed, trying to steady his breathing. The room is dark and quiet, a stark contrast to the chaos of emotions swirling inside him.

He fumbles for the light switch, wincing as the bright overhead lights flicker on. The suite feels cavernous and empty without you here. Your suitcase sits untouched in the corner, a painful reminder of the plans you’d made for this weekend.

Max’s phone buzzes in his pocket. He pulls it out, seeing a flood of missed calls and messages. His team, his family, the media — all clamoring for information, for his attention. He can’t deal with any of it right now.

With trembling hands, he switches off his phone and tosses it onto the bed. He paces the room, energy thrumming through his body with nowhere to go. He should shower, should eat something, should call his manager and figure out what to do about the race weekend. But he can’t bring himself to do any of it.

Instead, he finds himself drawn to your suitcase. He kneels beside it, running his hand over the familiar fabric. Slowly, almost reverently, he unzips it. Your neatly folded clothes, your favorite perfume, the book you’d been reading on the plane — all these little pieces of you, reminders of the life you shared.

Max pulls out one of your sweaters, burying his face in the soft material. It still smells like you. And suddenly, the dam breaks.

A sob tears from his throat, raw and primal. Tears he’s held back for years, through every hardship and setback, finally break free. Max crumples to the floor, clutching your sweater to his chest as he weeps.

“Why?” He chokes out between sobs. “Why her? Why us?”

The tears keep coming, relentless. Max cries for the pain you’re in, for the memories you’ve lost, for the future that suddenly seems so uncertain. He cries for the little boy who was left alone at a gas station, for the young man who walked away from a horrific crash. He cries for every emotion he’s ever pushed down, every vulnerability he’s hidden behind a mask of determination and focus.

Through his tears, he hears a knock at the door. He ignores it, unable to face anyone right now. But the knocking persists, followed by a familiar voice.

“Max? It’s me. Open up, mate.”

Max considers pretending he’s not here, but he knows Daniel won’t give up easily.bWiping his face on his sleeve, Max staggers to his feet and opens the door. Daniel takes one look at his tear-stained face and immediately pulls him into a tight hug.

“Oh, mate,” Daniel says softly. “I just heard. I’m so sorry.”

Max breaks down again, sobbing into Daniel’s shoulder. Daniel doesn’t say anything, just holds him tightly, letting him cry it out.

Finally, Max pulls away, embarrassed. “Sorry,” he mutters, wiping his eyes. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”

Daniel steers him towards the couch, closing the door behind them. “Nothing’s wrong with you, Max. You’re hurting. It’s okay to let it out.”

Max collapses onto the couch, feeling utterly drained. Daniel sits beside him, his usual joking demeanor replaced by genuine concern.

“Talk to me,” Daniel urges gently. “What happened?”

Max takes a shuddering breath. “She doesn’t remember me. She looked right at me and had no idea who I was. It’s like ... it’s like the last two years never happened for her.”

Daniel winces in sympathy. “That’s rough, mate. But the doctors think it’s temporary, right?”

Max shrugs helplessly. “They don’t know. It might come back, it might not. And even if it does, how long will it take? Weeks? Months? Years?”

“And you’re worried she won’t fall for you again,” Daniel says softly, understanding dawning on his face.

Max nods miserably. “What if she doesn’t? What if the girl I fell in love with is just ... gone? I don’t know how to do this. I don’t know how to be around her when she doesn’t even know me.”

Daniel is quiet for a moment, considering. “You know,” he says finally, “when I first met Y/N, I thought you were crazy.”

Max looks up, confused. “What do you mean?”

Daniel grins. “Come on, mate. Mad Max settling down with a normal girl? I thought for sure it was just a phase, that you’d get bored and move on to the next model or whatever.”

Max bristles slightly. “Y/N’s not just some normal girl. She’s-”

“I know, I know,” Daniel interrupts, holding up his hands. “That’s my point. It didn’t take long for me to see how special she is, and how perfect you two are together. You bring out the best in each other. That connection, that spark — it’s still there, Max. Even if she can’t remember it right now.”

Max shakes his head. “You don’t understand. You didn’t see her in that hospital bed, looking at me like I was a total stranger. It was like ... like everything we had just disappeared in an instant.”

Daniel leans forward, his expression serious. “Listen to me. The memories might be gone for now, but the feelings? The connection you two have? That doesn’t just disappear. It’s still there, buried deep inside her. You just have to be patient and give her time to find it again.”

Max wants to believe him, but doubt gnaws at his heart. “What if she doesn’t want to? What if she decides she’s better off without me?”

Daniel scoffs. “Not a chance, mate. You’re Max fucking Verstappen. What girl wouldn’t want you?”

The joke falls flat. Max just stares at the floor, shoulders slumped. Daniel sighs, realizing humor isn’t the answer right now.

“Look,” he says softly, “I know you’re scared. But think about it this way — you’ve been given a chance to fall in love all over again. To experience all those firsts one more time. It’s not ideal, sure, but it’s not the end of the world either.”

Max looks up, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “You really think she could fall for me again?”

Daniel grins. “Are you kidding? She fell for you once when you were an arrogant little shit. Now that you’re slightly less of an arrogant little shit, it should be a piece of cake.”

Despite everything, Max finds himself chuckling. “Thanks, asshole.”

Daniel’s expression turns serious again. “I mean it, though. You can’t give up. Y/N needs you now more than ever, even if she doesn’t realize it. You have to be strong for her.”

Max nods slowly. “I know. I just ... I don’t know how to do this. How to be around her when she doesn’t know me. When she looks at me like I’m a stranger.”

Daniel considers this for a moment. “Maybe that’s your advantage. You get to introduce yourself to her all over again. Show her the Max that she fell in love with in the first place.”

Max mulls this over. “I guess ... I guess that could work. But what if I screw it up? What if I say or do the wrong thing and push her away?”

Daniel claps him on the shoulder. “That’s where your friends come in. We’ve got your back. Whatever you need, we’re here for you. Both of you.”

For the first time since the accident, Max feels a spark of genuine hope. “Thanks. Really. I don’t know what I’d do without you guys.”

Daniel grins. “Probably crash and burn spectacularly. But that’s why we keep you around — you’re entertaining.”

Max rolls his eyes, but he’s smiling now. “Seriously, though. How do I do this? How do I help her remember without overwhelming her?”

Daniel thinks for a moment. “Start small. Don’t dump your whole history on her at once. Share little stories, show her pictures. Let her get to know you again naturally. And most importantly, be patient. This isn’t a race you can win by pushing harder. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

Max nods, feeling a sense of determination replacing his earlier despair. “You’re right. I can do this. I have to do this. For her.”

Daniel smiles, seeing the familiar fire returning to his friend’s eyes. “That’s the Max I know. Now, have you eaten anything? Because I’m starving, and room service is calling my name.”

Max realizes he hasn’t eaten since breakfast. “Food sounds good,” he admits.

As Daniel picks up the phone to order, Max’s thoughts turn to you. He imagines you in that hospital bed, scared and confused. He makes a silent promise to himself, and to you, that he’ll do whatever it takes to help you remember. And if you can’t remember, he’ll make new memories with you, ones just as beautiful as the ones you’ve lost.

The rest of the evening passes in a blur of food, conversation, and planning. Daniel helps Max sort through the flood of messages on his phone, crafting responses to his team and family. They decide that Max will skip the rest of the race weekend — his mind isn’t in the right place to drive safely, and you need him more than the team does right now.

As the night wears on, Daniel eventually leaves, extracting a promise from Max to call if he needs anything. Left alone, Max finds himself drawn once again to your suitcase. This time, instead of breaking down, he begins to pack a bag.

Photos, mementos, little things that might spark a memory — he carefully selects items to bring to the hospital tomorrow. As he works, he talks to you in his mind, imagining what he’ll say when he sees you again.

“I know you’re scared,” he murmurs, folding one of your favorite hoodies. “I’m scared too. But we’re going to get through this together. I’m not giving up on us, Y/N. Not now, not ever.”

As he zips up the bag, Max feels a renewed sense of purpose. The road ahead won’t be easy, but he’s ready to face it. Because at the end of that road is you, and a love worth fighting for.

Max crawls into bed, exhausted but no longer despairing. As he drifts off to sleep, his last thought is of you. Of your smile, your laugh, the way your eyes light up when you look at him. He holds onto these memories, these precious fragments of your life together, knowing that somehow, someway, he’ll find a way to share them with you again.

Tomorrow is a new day, a new chance to help you remember. And Max Verstappen has never been one to back down from a challenge.

***

The sun is barely peeking over the horizon as Max makes his way through the quiet hospital corridors. His footsteps echo in the empty hallway, the bag slung over his shoulder feeling heavier with each step. Inside are the stuffed versions of Jimmy and Sassy, and your favorite hoodie —his hoodie, really, but you’ve claimed it as your own.

As he approaches your room, Max takes a deep breath, steeling himself. He knocks softly before entering, not wanting to startle you if you’re asleep.

You’re awake, sitting up in bed and staring out the window. When you turn to look at him, there’s a flicker of recognition in your eyes, but it’s followed quickly by confusion.

“Max, right?” You say hesitantly.

Max forces a smile, trying to hide the pain those words cause. “That’s right. How are you feeling this morning?”

You shrug, wincing slightly at the movement. “Sore. Confused. But the doctors say I’m healing well, physically at least.”

Max nods, moving closer to the bed. “That’s good. I, uh, I brought some things for you. I thought they might help make you more comfortable.”

You eye the bag curiously. “Oh? That’s ... that’s very kind of you.”

Max sets the bag on the bed and starts unpacking. First, he pulls out the stuffed cats. “These are Jimmy and Sassy,” he explains. “Well, stuffed versions of them. They’re our cats. You can’t travel without these because you miss the real ones so much.”

Your eyes light up as you reach for the stuffed animals. “We have cats? I love cats!”

Max chuckles, a warmth spreading through his chest at your enthusiasm. “Yeah, two Bengal cats. They’re like little troublemakers, always getting into mischief. You adore them.”

You hug the stuffed cats close, a small smile playing on your lips. “Tell me about them?”

Max sits in the chair beside your bed, grateful for the opening. “Well, Jimmy is the older one. He’s very dignified, or at least he tries to be. But he has a weakness for cardboard boxes. No matter how expensive a cat bed we buy him, he always prefers a random Amazon box.”

You giggle at that, and the sound is like music to Max’s ears. He continues, “Sassy is younger and true to her name. She’s always chattering away, meowing at us like she’s telling us about her day. And she has this thing for water —she’ll sit by the sink for hours, just watching the faucet drip.”

“They sound wonderful,” you say softly, stroking the stuffed cats’ fur. “I wish I could remember them.”

Max reaches into the bag again. “Maybe this will help,” he says, pulling out the hoodie. “This is your favorite thing to wear around the house. Well, my hoodie that you’ve completely taken over.”

You take the hoodie, running your hands over the soft fabric. You bring it to your face, inhaling deeply, and for a moment, Max’s heart soars with hope. But then you shake your head.

“It smells ... familiar,” you say slowly. “But I can’t place it. I’m sorry.”

Max tries to hide his disappointment. “It’s okay. Don’t push yourself. The doctors said it might take time.”

You nod, but he can see the frustration in your eyes. “It’s just so strange,” you murmur. “I know things, like I know I love cats, but I can’t remember our cats. I know this hoodie is important, but I can’t remember why.”

Max leans forward, his voice gentle. “Hey, it’s okay. You’ve been through a lot. Give yourself time to heal.”

You look at him, really look at him, for the first time since he entered the room. “You’re being so patient with me. It must be hard for you, seeing me like this.”

Max swallows hard, fighting back tears. “It’s not easy,” he admits. “But you’re worth it. We’re worth it.”

A comfortable silence falls between you. You pull on the hoodie, snuggling into its warmth. “So,” you say after a while, “tell me more about us. How did we meet?”

Max’s face lights up at the question. “It was at a charity gala in Monaco,” he begins. “I was there representing the team and you were there with some friends. I saw you across the room and ... I couldn’t take my eyes off you.”

You raise an eyebrow, a hint of a smile on your lips. “Oh really? Was it love at first sight?”

Max chuckles. “More like anxiety at first sight for me. I was so nervous to talk to you. I must have circled the room three times before I worked up the courage to approach you.”

“You? Nervous?” You say, sounding surprised. “But you’re a famous racing driver. Surely you’re used to talking to people.”

Max shrugs. “On the track, sure. But off it? Especially with beautiful women? I’m a disaster. But something about you ... I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t at least try to talk to you.”

You lean back against your pillows, looking intrigued. “So what happened? Did you sweep me off my feet with your charm?”

Max bursts out laughing. “God, no. I was a complete mess. I walked up to you, tried to say something smooth, and ended up knocking over a tray of champagne glasses. Drenched myself and nearly you too.”

Your eyes widen. “Oh no! That sounds mortifying.”

“It was,” Max agrees. “I was ready to run away and hide forever. But then you did something amazing. Instead of being upset or embarrassed, you started laughing. Not at me, but with me. You helped me clean up, made a joke about how I was smoother on the track than off it, and then ... you asked me to dance.”

You smile at that. “I did? That was brave of me.”

Max nods, his eyes soft with the memory. “It was. You later told me you thought I was cute when I was flustered. We danced for hours that night, talking about everything and nothing. By the end of the evening, I knew I wanted to see you again.”

“And the rest is history?” You ask.

“Not quite,” Max says with a grin. “I still had to convince you to go on a proper date with me. And let me tell you, dating a Formula 1 driver isn’t always easy. But we made it work. We’ve been together for two years now, living in Monaco.”

You absorb this information, your brow furrowed in concentration. “It sounds like a fairytale,” you say softly. “I wish I could remember it.”

Max reaches out, hesitating for a moment before gently taking your hand. To his relief, you don’t pull away. “You will,” he says firmly. “And if you don’t, we’ll make new memories. Even better ones.”

You squeeze his hand, offering a small smile. “You really believe that, don’t you?”

“I do,” Max says without hesitation. “Because I know you, Y/N. Even if you can’t remember right now, I know the person you are. Your kindness, your strength, your incredible spirit. That hasn’t changed. It’s still there, inside you.”

Tears well up in your eyes. “I want to believe you,” you whisper. “But it’s so hard. Everything feels so ... disconnected. Like I’m living someone else’s life.”

Max moves to sit on the edge of the bed, still holding your hand. “I know it’s scary,” he says softly. “But you’re not alone in this. I’m here, your family’s here. We’ll help you through it, step by step.”

You nod, wiping away a stray tear. “Thank you. For being here, for bringing these things. It means a lot.”

Max smiles, his heart swelling with love for you. “Always. I’ll always be here for you, Y/N. No matter what.”

Just then, a nurse enters the room. “Good morning,” she says cheerfully. “How are we feeling today?”

You turn to her, still clutching the stuffed cats. “A bit better, I think. Max brought me some things from home.”

The nurse smiles approvingly. “That’s wonderful. Familiar objects can often help in recovery. Now, I’m afraid I’ll have to ask you to step out for a bit,” she says to Max. “We need to run some tests and change some dressings.”

Max nods, standing up reluctantly. “Of course. I’ll be back later, if that’s okay?” he asks, looking at you.

You nod, offering a small smile. “I’d like that. Maybe ... maybe you could bring some more things next time? Anything that might help jog my memory?”

Max’s heart leaps at the request. “Absolutely. I’ll bring whatever I can think of.”

As he turns to leave, you call out softly. “Max?”

He turns back, his breath catching in his throat. “Yeah?”

“Thank you,” you say simply. “For not giving up on me.”

Max feels tears pricking at his eyes. “Never,” he says firmly. “I’ll never give up on you, Y/N. On us.”

As he walks out of the hospital into the bright morning sunshine, Max feels a renewed sense of hope. It won’t be easy, and the road ahead is still long and uncertain. But you’re still you, still the woman he fell in love with. And he’ll do whatever it takes to help you find your way back to him.

He pulls out his phone, sending a quick message to his team. He won’t be racing this weekend, or perhaps for a while. Some things are more important than Formula 1. Right now, his place is here, by your side, helping you piece together the memories of your life together.

***

The press room is buzzing with anticipation as Max takes his seat at the table. Cameras flash incessantly and the murmur of journalists speculating grows louder. Max’s face is a mask of calm, but inside, he’s a storm of emotions.

His manager, Raymond, leans in close before stepping away. “Remember, keep it brief. No details about Y/N unless absolutely necessary.”

Max nods curtly, his jaw clenched. The past few days have been a whirlwind of hospital visits, tense conversations with the team, and now this — facing the media to explain his decision to step away from racing.

The room falls silent as the press conference begins. A Red Bull spokesperson steps up to the microphone.

“Good afternoon, everyone. As you know, Max Verstappen has announced his decision to take a leave of absence from Formula 1 for an undetermined period. Max will now take your questions.”

The room erupts with raised hands and shouted questions. Max points to a familiar face in the front row.

“Max, can you explain the reasoning behind this sudden decision? You’re in the midst of a tight championship battle. Why step away now?”

Max takes a deep breath. “I understand this comes as a surprise to many. There are personal matters that require my full attention right now. I can’t go into details, but I assure you, this decision wasn’t made lightly.”

Another journalist jumps in before he can choose the next question. “But surely these personal matters could be handled while continuing to race? Many drivers balance personal issues with their careers.”

Max feels a flicker of irritation. “Every situation is unique. In this case, I need to step away completely. My focus can’t be divided right now.”

The questions keep coming, each one chipping away at Max’s patience.

“Is this related to your recent performance dip?”

“Are there issues within the team we don’t know about?”

“Some fans are accusing you of abandoning the sport. What do you say to them?”

Max answers each as calmly as he can, but he can feel his control slipping. Then, a question from the back of the room ignites the powder keg.

“Max, there are rumors that this is about a woman. Have you let a relationship interfere with your career?”

The room falls silent, all eyes on Max. He grips the edge of the table, knuckles white. For a moment, he considers sticking to the script, giving another vague non-answer. But something inside him snaps.

“You want to know the truth?” He says, his voice low and intense. “Fine. I’ll tell you.”

Raymond steps forward, a warning in his eyes, but Max waves him off.

“My girlfriend was in a serious car accident,” Max continues, his voice growing louder. “She’s in the hospital with severe injuries and memory loss. She doesn’t even remember who I am.”

The room erupts in gasps and furious scribbling. Max stands, leaning forward on the table.

“So yes, I’m stepping away from racing. Because the woman I love needs me. Because some things are more important than trophies or championship points.”

He’s shouting now, years of pent-up frustration with the media pouring out.

“You all sit here and judge me, speculate about my personal life, accuse me of abandoning the sport. But where were you when I was a kid, pushed to the limit by a demanding father? Where were you when I was struggling with the pressure of being the youngest driver in F1 history?”

The room is dead silent now, every journalist hanging on his words.

“I’ve given everything to this sport. I’ve sacrificed friendships, relationships, a normal life. And now, the one time I need to put something else first, you question my commitment?”

Max’s voice breaks slightly, but he pushes on.

“Y/N is fighting for her life, fighting to remember who she is. Who we are together. And you want me to, what? Leave her alone in a hospital room while I zip around a track?”

He looks around the room, meeting the shocked gazes of the journalists.

“So go ahead. Write your stories. Question my decisions. But know this — I don’t regret my choice. Not for a second. Because at the end of the day, the chequered flag won’t keep me warm at night. It won’t laugh at my jokes or hold my hand when I’m stressed.”

Max takes a deep breath, his anger giving way to a deep sadness.

“I love racing. It’s been my whole life. But I love Y/N more. And right now, she needs me. So I’m going to be there for her, every step of the way, until she’s better. Until she remembers us.”

He sits back down, suddenly drained. The room is still silent, the journalists too stunned to even raise their hands for questions.

Finally, a older journalist in the front row clears his throat. “Max, I ... we had no idea. I’m so sorry about Y/N. Can you tell us more about her condition?”

Max shakes his head, his voice softer now. “I’ve already said more than I planned to. Y/N’s privacy is important to me. All I’ll say is that she’s fighting hard, and I’m going to be right there with her.”

Another journalist speaks up. “You mentioned Y/N doesn’t remember you. How are you coping with that?”

Max runs a hand through his hair, considering his words carefully. “It’s ... it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever faced. Harder than any race, any championship battle. To look into the eyes of the person you love most in the world and see no recognition ... it’s gut-wrenching.”

He pauses, swallowing hard. “But I’m not giving up. I’m fighting for us, for our memories, for our future. Even if I have to make her fall in love with me all over again.”

The mood in the room has shifted completely. Gone is the adversarial tension, replaced by a somber understanding.

“What can fans do to support you during this time?” Another journalist asks.

Max manages a small smile. “Just ... be patient. Understand that there are things more important than racing. And maybe, if you’re the praying type, keep Y/N in your thoughts.”

The Red Bull spokesperson steps forward, signaling the end of the conference. But Max holds up a hand, not quite finished.

“I want to say one more thing,” he says, his voice steady. “To any of you out there who might be going through something similar — don’t be afraid to step back. Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty for putting your loved ones first. At the end of the day, that’s what really matters.”

With that, Max stands and walks out of the room, leaving a stunned silence in his wake. As soon as he’s out of sight of the cameras, he leans against a wall, emotions overwhelming him.

Raymond approaches cautiously. “That ... didn’t go quite as planned.”

Max lets out a humorless laugh. “No, I suppose it didn’t.”

“You okay?” Raymond asks, genuine concern in his voice.

Max nods slowly. “Yeah. Yeah, I think I am. It feels ... good to have it out there. No more hiding, no more vague excuses.”

Raymond squeezes his shoulder. “You did good, kid. It won’t be easy, but people will understand now.”

Max’s phone buzzes in his pocket. He pulls it out to see a flood of messages — from his team, his family, even other drivers. But one catches his eye — a text from your mom.

“Just saw the press conference. Y/N would be so proud of you. We all are. Come by the hospital when you can. She’s asking for you.”

Despite everything, Max feels a smile tugging at his lips. He turns to Raymond. “I’ve got to go. Y/N’s waiting.”

Raymond nods understandingly. “Go. We’ll handle things here. Give her our best.”

As Max walks out of the building, he’s greeted by a small crowd of fans. But instead of the anger or disappointment he expected, he sees understanding and support in their faces. Many are holding haphazardly thrown together signs with messages of encouragement for both him and you.

One young girl breaks away from her parents, running up to Max with a hand-drawn card. “This is for Y/N,” she says shyly. “I hope she gets better soon.”

Max kneels down, taking the card with a genuine smile. “Thank you. I’ll make sure she gets it.”

As he stands, the crowd starts to applaud. It’s not the roar of a race victory, but a softer, more meaningful sound. The sound of people recognizing a different kind of strength, a different kind of victory.

Max raises a hand in acknowledgment before getting into his waiting car. As the driver pulls away, he looks at the card in his hands. It’s a simple drawing of two stick figures holding hands, with the words “Get well soon Y/N! Max loves you ❤️” written in childish scrawl.

For the first time in days, Max feels a weight lift from his shoulders. The road ahead is still long and uncertain, but he’s not alone. He has the support of his team, his fans, and most importantly, he has you — even if you can’t remember him yet.

As the car speeds towards the hospital, Max makes a silent promise. To you, to himself, to everyone who’s supporting them. He’ll face this challenge with the same determination and focus he brings to the track. Because this is the most important race of his life — the race to help you remember, to rebuild your life together.

And Max Verstappen doesn’t lose races that matter.

***

Max stands outside your hospital room, the handmade card clutched in his hand. He takes a deep breath, steeling himself before knocking softly and entering.

You’re sitting up in bed, looking more alert than he’s seen you since the accident. Your parents are there too, gathering your things in preparation for your discharge tomorrow.

“Max,” you say, a small smile gracing your lips. It’s not the warm, loving smile he’s used to, but it’s a start. “We saw your press conference.”

Max feels a flush creep up his neck. “Ah, yeah. I, uh, might have gotten a bit carried away.”

Your mother steps forward, enveloping him in a hug. “You were wonderful, dear. So brave and honest.”

“Thanks,” Max mumbles, still not entirely comfortable with praise outside of racing. He turns his attention back to you. “How are you feeling today?”

You shrug slightly. “Better, I think. Still ... confused about a lot of things. But the pain is less.”

Max nods, moving closer to your bed. “That’s good. I, uh, I have something for you.” He holds out the card. “A young fan made this for you after the press conference.”

You take the card, examining the childish drawing with a soft expression. “Get well soon Y/N! Max loves you!” You read aloud. Your eyes flick up to meet his. “That’s ... very sweet.”

Max shifts uncomfortably, unsure how to respond. Your father, sensing the tension, clears his throat. “We’re going to go get some coffee. Give you two some time to talk.”

As your parents leave the room, an awkward silence falls. Max takes a seat in the chair beside your bed, fidgeting with his hands.

“So,” you say finally, “you’re taking time off from racing. For me.”

Max nods. “Yeah. I hope that’s okay. I know you don’t ... remember us. But I want to be here for you, however you need me to be.”

You’re quiet for a moment, considering his words. “It’s a lot of pressure,” you admit softly. “Knowing someone’s put their whole life on hold for me.”

Max leans forward, his eyes intense. “Hey, no. Don’t think of it like that. This isn’t a sacrifice or an obligation. It’s a choice. My choice.”

You nod slowly, but he can see the doubt in your eyes. “Tell me something,” you say suddenly. “Something about us. Something ... happy.”

Max feels a smile tugging at his lips as he casts his mind back. “Okay, how about this? Last year, after I won the championship, we took a vacation. Just the two of us, no teams, no press, no obligations.”

“Where did we go?” You ask, curiosity piqued.

“Bali,” Max says, his eyes lighting up with the memory. “We rented this amazing villa right on the beach. You were determined to teach me how to surf.”

A small giggle escapes you. “Did I succeed?”

Max chuckles. “Not even close. I spent more time eating sand than standing on the board. But you were so patient, so encouraging. Even when I was frustrated and ready to give up, you just ... you made it fun.”

“Sounds nice,” you say softly.

“It was more than nice,” Max continues, warming to the subject. “One evening, we were sitting on the beach watching the sunset.” He pauses, swallowing hard. “I realized all the trophies, all the victories ... they didn’t compare to just being there with you, watching the sun sink into the ocean.”

You’re quiet for a long moment, absorbing his words. “We sound ... very happy together,” you say finally.

Max nods, blinking back tears. “We are. We were. We will be again.”

You reach out hesitantly, taking his hand. It’s the first time you’ve initiated contact since the accident, and Max feels his heart soar.

“I’m scared,” you admit, your voice barely above a whisper. “I’m being discharged tomorrow, and I don’t ... I don’t know where I belong anymore.”

Max squeezes your hand gently. “You belong wherever you feel comfortable. If that’s with your parents for now, that’s okay. If you want to try coming home with me, that’s okay too. There’s no pressure, no expectations. We’ll figure this out together, at your pace.”

You nod, looking grateful. “Thank you. For being so understanding. I know this can’t be easy for you either.”

Max shrugs. “It’s not. But you’re worth it. We’re worth it.”

A comfortable silence falls between you. Max is content to just sit there, holding your hand, savoring this small connection.

After a while, you speak again. “Can you tell me more? About our life together?”

Max’s face lights up. “Of course. What do you want to know?”

You consider for a moment. “What’s a typical day like for us? When you’re not racing, I mean.”

Max leans back in his chair, a fond smile on his face. “Well, you’re definitely the early riser between us. You usually get up first, make coffee. Sometimes you go for a run or do yoga on the balcony.”

“I do yoga?” You ask, sounding surprised.

Max chuckles. “Yeah, you got into it as a way to help me relax between races. Said if it could calm me down, it could work miracles for anyone.”

You laugh at that, a genuine, full laugh that makes Max’s heart skip a beat. It’s the first time he’s heard that sound since the accident.

“Anyway,” he continues, “I usually drag myself out of bed when I smell the coffee. We have breakfast together, usually something healthy that you insist I need.”

“Sounds like I take good care of you,” you observe.

Max nods, his expression softening. “You do. Better than anyone ever has.”

“What else?” You prompt, clearly engrossed in the story of your shared life.

“Well, if I’m training, you often come to the gym with me. You say it’s to support me, but I think you just like ogling me when I lift weights.”

You swat his arm playfully, a faint blush coloring your cheeks. “I do not!”

Max grins, delighted by this glimpse of your old dynamic. “Oh, you absolutely do. Not that I mind. I return the favor when you’re doing your yoga.”

You roll your eyes, but you’re smiling. “What else do we do?”

“We cook together a lot,” Max says. “Or rather, you cook and I try not to burn the kitchen down. You’re teaching me, slowly but surely. We have this tradition of trying to recreate dishes from all the countries I race in.”

“That sounds fun,” you say, a wistful note in your voice. “Do we have a favorite?”

Max thinks for a moment. “There’s this amazing pasta dish we perfected after the Italian Grand Prix. You said it was better than sex.”

Your eyes widen. “I did not!”

Max laughs. “You absolutely did. Then you made me prove you wrong.”

You blush furiously, but you’re laughing too. “I can’t believe I said that!”

“Believe it,” Max says, grinning. “You’re full of surprises, schatje. It’s one of the things I love most about you.”

The word ’love’ hangs in the air between you. You grow quiet, your expression thoughtful.

“Max,” you say finally, “I want you to know ... I’m trying. To remember. To ... to feel what you feel.”

Max squeezes your hand. “I know you are. And it’s okay if it takes time. Or if ... if you never feel exactly the same way. We can build something new, if we need to.”

You nod, looking relieved. “Thank you. For understanding. For being patient.”

“Always,” Max says softly.

Just then, your parents return, breaking the intimate moment. Your mother smiles warmly at the sight of your joined hands.

“Everything okay in here?” She asks.

You nod, offering a small smile. “Yeah. Max was just telling me about our life together.”

Your father clears his throat. “Speaking of which, we should probably discuss arrangements for after your discharge tomorrow.”

You tense slightly, and Max can feel your grip on his hand tighten. “Right,” you say, your voice uncertain.

Max jumps in. “Y/N, remember what I said. Whatever you’re comfortable with. There’s no pressure.”

You nod gratefully. “I think ... I think I’d like to stay with my parents for a bit. If that’s okay?” You look at Max, worry in your eyes.

Max forces a smile, ignoring the pang in his heart. “Of course it’s okay. Whatever you need.”

Your mother steps forward. “Max, you’re welcome to visit anytime. We know how important you are to Y/N, even if she can’t remember everything right now.”

Max nods, grateful for their understanding. “Thank you. I’d like that.”

As the conversation turns to logistics of your discharge, Max finds his mind wandering. It’s not the outcome he’d hoped for, but he understands. You need time, space to heal and rediscover yourself. And he’ll be there, every step of the way, however you need him.

As visiting hours come to an end and Max prepares to leave, you call out to him.

“Max?”

He turns back. “Yeah?”

You hesitate for a moment, then say, “Thank you. For everything. And ... I’d like to hear more stories. About us. If that’s okay.”

Max feels a warmth spread through his chest. It’s not a declaration of love, not a magical recovery of memories. But it’s a start. A willingness to explore, to learn, to possibly fall in love all over again.

“Anytime,” he says softly. “I’ve got plenty of stories to tell.”

***

The Monaco apartment feels cavernous and empty as Max pushes open the door. The silence is oppressive, broken only by the soft padding of paws as Jimmy and Sassy come to greet him. They meow insistently, weaving between his legs, clearly searching for someone who isn’t there.

“I know,” Max murmurs, kneeling to scratch behind their ears. “I miss her too.”

He moves through the space, every corner filled with memories. Your favorite mug sits on the kitchen counter, lipstick stain still visible on the rim. A half-read book lies on the coffee table, your bookmark peeking out from the pages. Your scent lingers on the throw pillows on the couch.

Max sinks onto the sofa, and immediately, Jimmy jumps up beside him, headbutting his hand for attention. Sassy follows suit, curling up in his lap.

“At least I’ve got you two,” Max says softly, stroking their fur. “But it’s not the same, is it?”

He pulls out his phone, scrolling through photos of happier times. You and him on vacation, at race weekends, lazy Sundays at home. Your smile, so bright and full of love, now feels like a distant memory.

“Come on, Max,” he mutters to himself. “You can’t fall apart now. Y/N needs you to be strong.”

But in the quiet of the apartment, with only the cats for company, it’s hard to maintain that strength. For the first time since the accident, since the press conference, since leaving you at your parents’ house, Max allows himself to truly feel the weight of everything that’s happened.

A sob escapes him, then another. Soon, he’s crying in earnest, all the pent-up fear and frustration and loneliness pouring out. Jimmy and Sassy press closer, as if trying to comfort him.

“I don’t know what to do,” Max confesses to the empty room. “How do I help her remember? How do I make her fall in love with me again? What if ... what if she never does?”

The cats, of course, don’t answer. But their presence is comforting, a reminder that he’s not entirely alone.

As his tears subside, Max takes a deep breath, trying to center himself. He needs to focus, to come up with a plan. You might not remember your life together, but he does. And he’s determined to help you rediscover it, piece by piece if necessary.

He stands, moving to the bookshelf where you keep photo albums. Maybe he could put together a scrapbook of your relationship, something tangible for you to look through. As he reaches for an album, his phone buzzes in his pocket.

His heart leaps when he sees your name on the screen. He answers immediately, trying to keep the eagerness out of his voice. “Y/N? Is everything okay?”

“Hi,” you say, and he can hear a note of confusion in your voice. “Everything’s fine, I just ... this is going to sound weird, but I needed to ask you something.”

Max sits back down on the couch, curious. “Of course. What is it?”

You hesitate for a moment before speaking. “I’ve been having these ... cravings. For food I don’t remember ever eating before, much less liking. And I thought maybe ... maybe they mean something?”

Max’s pulse quickens. Could this be a sign of your memories returning? “What kind of food?” He asks, trying to keep his voice neutral.

“Tomato soup,” you say. “And beef carpaccio. I know it sounds strange, but I can’t stop thinking about them. Do they ... do they mean anything to you?”

Max feels like his heart might burst out of his chest. “Y/N,” he says softly, “those are my favorite foods.”

“Oh,” you breathe, and he can hear the surprise in your voice. “I ... I didn’t know that.”

“The tomato soup is something my mom used to make for me when I was a kid,” Max explains, his voice thick with emotion. “And the carpaccio ... that was what we had on our first real date in Monaco.”

There’s a long pause on the other end of the line. “I don’t remember that,” you say finally, a note of frustration in your voice. “But I can almost ... almost taste it, you know? Like my body remembers even if my mind doesn’t.”

Max nods, even though you can’t see him. “That’s good, Y/N. That’s really good. It means the memories are still in there somewhere.”

“Maybe,” you say, sounding uncertain. “I just wish I could remember more. It’s so frustrating, having all these ... these echoes of a life I can’t quite grasp.”

“I know,” Max says soothingly. “But this is progress. We just have to be patient.”

You sigh. “You’re right. I just ... I feel bad, you know? You’re being so patient and understanding, and I can’t even remember our first date.”

Max’s heart aches at the sadness in your voice. “Hey, no. Don’t feel bad. This isn’t your fault. We’re in this together, remember?”

“Yeah,” you say softly. “Together.”

There’s another pause, and Max can almost picture you biting your lip, the way you do when you’re thinking hard about something.

“Max?” You say finally. “Can you ... can you tell me about our first date? The one with the carpaccio?”

A smile spreads across Max’s face. “Of course. It was about a week after we met at that charity gala. I was so nervous, I must have changed my shirt five times before picking you up.”

You laugh softly. “You, nervous? I find that hard to believe.”

“Believe it,” Max chuckles. “You had me completely flustered. Still do, if I’m honest.”

He launches into the story, describing how he’d taken you to a small, intimate restaurant overlooking the harbor. How you’d laughed at his attempts to pronounce the French dishes, how your eyes had lit up when you tasted the carpaccio.

“You said it was the best thing you’d ever eaten,” Max recalls. “But I barely tasted the food. I just couldn’t believe someone as amazing as you was interested in me.”

“Max ...” you start, your voice soft and a bit uncertain.

“Sorry,” he says quickly. “I don’t mean to push. I know this is all still ... complicated.”

“No, it’s okay,” you assure him. “I like hearing these stories. They help, even if I can’t remember them myself yet.”

Max feels a warmth spread through his chest. “I’m glad. I’ve got plenty more where that came from, whenever you want to hear them.”

“I’d like that,” you say. “Maybe ... maybe next time we could do it in person? If you’re not too busy, I mean.”

“Y/N,” Max says seriously, “I’m never too busy for you. Just name the time and place, and I’ll be there.”

You laugh softly. “Careful, I might hold you to that.”

“Please do,” Max says, meaning every word.

As you say your goodbyes, Max feels lighter than he has in days. It’s not a magical fix, not a sudden return of all your memories. But it’s progress. A willingness to explore, to learn, to possibly fall in love all over again.

An idea strikes him as he ends the call. He quickly pulls up a food delivery app on his phone, searching for restaurants near your parents’ house. Finding one that offers both tomato soup and beef carpaccio, he places an order, adding a note.

A taste of our memories. Hope this helps satisfy those cravings - Max

As he completes the order, Max feels a surge of hope. It’s a small gesture, but maybe it will help trigger more memories. Or at the very least, it will show you that he’s thinking of you, that he’s here for you in whatever way you need.

He looks around the apartment, seeing it with new eyes. Yes, it’s empty without you here. But it’s not a sad emptiness anymore. It’s a space waiting to be filled again, with new memories alongside the old.

Max scratches Jimmy and Sassy behind the ears. “What do you think, guys? Should we start planning how to win your mom’s heart all over again?”

The cats purr in response, and Max chuckles. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

Even if you can’t remember everything yet, your body remembers. Your heart remembers.

And Max is determined to help you rediscover every beautiful moment of your life together, one memory at a time. Starting with a bowl of tomato soup and a plate of beef carpaccio.

***

The shrill ring of his phone jolts Max awake. He fumbles for it in the darkness, heart racing as he sees the caller ID: your mother.

“Hello?” He answers, voice thick with sleep but mind rapidly clearing.

“Max, I’m so sorry to wake you,” your mother’s voice comes through, tense and worried. “It’s Y/N. She woke up about an hour ago and she’s ... she’s not okay.”

Max is already out of bed, fumbling for clothes. “What’s wrong? Is she hurt?”

“No, no, nothing like that,” your mother assures him quickly. “She’s just ... she’s crying and she keeps saying she needs you. We can’t calm her down. I know it’s the middle of the night, but I didn’t know what else to do.”

“You did the right thing,” Max says, pulling on a shirt haphazardly. “I’m on my way. Can you put her on the phone?”

There’s a rustling sound, then your voice comes through, small and broken. “Max?”

His heart clenches at the pain in your voice. “Y/N, I’m here. What’s wrong, liefje?”

“I don’t know,” you sob. “I had this dream and now everything hurts and I can’t ... I can’t remember but I know I need you. Please, Max. I need you here.”

“I’m coming,” Max promises, already dialing his pilot with his other phone. “I’ll be there as soon as I can. Just hold on, okay?”

“Okay,” you whisper. “Please hurry.”

As the call ends, Max is already rushing out the door, barely remembering to grab his wallet and keys. He calls his pilot as he takes the stairs two at a time, not willing to wait for the elevator.

“Frank, I need the jet ready as soon as possible. We’re flying to-” he rattles off the name of your parents’ hometown. “How fast can we be in the air?”

“Mr. Verstappen, it’s the middle of the night,” Frank starts, but Max cuts him off.

“I know what time it is. This is an emergency. How soon?”

There’s a pause, then Frank sighs. “Give me 30 minutes. I’ll call the crew.”

“Make it 20,” Max insists. “I’ll double your rate.”

“We’ll be ready,” Frank assures him.

Max ends the call as he reaches his car, peeling out of the parking garage with a screech of tires. His mind races as fast as the car, worry for you overwhelming everything else.

What could have triggered this? You’d been doing better, or so he thought. The memory of food had seemed like progress. But now ...

He shakes his head, forcing himself to focus on the road. Getting to you safely is what matters now. Everything else can wait.

Max makes it to the airport in record time, barely bothering to park properly before he’s sprinting towards his private jet. Frank meets him at the stairs.

“We’re fueled and ready,” he says. “Weather looks clear, we should have a smooth flight.”

“Good,” Max nods, already climbing the stairs. “Let’s go.”

As the jet takes off, Max finds himself unable to sit still. He paces the cabin, checking his phone every few seconds even though he knows there’s no signal at this altitude.

The flight attendant approaches cautiously. “Mr. Verstappen? Can I get you anything?”

Max shakes his head, then reconsiders. “Actually, yes. Coffee. Strongest you’ve got.”

She nods, retreating to the galley. Max resumes his pacing, his mind a whirlwind of worry and speculation.

What if you’d remembered something traumatic? What if this setback undid all the progress you’d made? What if ...

He forces himself to stop that line of thinking. Catastrophizing won’t help anyone, least of all you.

The flight seems to take an eternity. As soon as they land, he’s out of his seat, barely waiting for the stairs to fully deploy before he’s racing down them.

A car is waiting, arranged by his ever-efficient team. Max barely registers the driver’s greeting as he slides into the backseat.

He recites the address tersely. “As fast as you can.”

The drive is a blur of streetlights and quiet suburban roads. Max’s leg bounces nervously, his hands clenched into fists.

Finally, mercifully, they pull up to the familiar house. Max is out of the car before it fully stops, racing up the front steps.

Your father opens the door before he can knock. “Thank God you’re here,” he says, ushering Max inside. “She’s upstairs.”

Max takes the stairs two at a time, his heart pounding. He can hear muffled sobs coming from your old bedroom.

He pauses at the door, taking a deep breath to steady himself. Then he knocks softly. “Y/N? It’s me. It’s Max.”

The sobs quieten slightly. “Max?” Your voice comes through, small and uncertain.

“Can I come in?”

There’s a pause, then: “Please.”

Max opens the door slowly. The room is dimly lit by a bedside lamp, casting long shadows. You’re huddled on the bed, knees drawn up to your chest, eyes red and puffy from crying.

The sight of you so distressed nearly breaks him. In two long strides, he’s at your side.

“I’m here,” he says softly. “I’m right here.”

You look up at him, fresh tears spilling down your cheeks. “Max,” you whisper, and then you’re launching yourself into his arms.

Max catches you, holding you close as you sob into his chest. He strokes your hair, murmuring soothing words.

“It’s okay. I’ve got you. You’re safe.”

Gradually, your sobs subside, replaced by hiccuping breaths. Max continues to hold you, rocking slightly.

“Do you want to talk about it?” He asks gently.

You pull back slightly, wiping your eyes. “I had this dream,” you start, your voice hoarse. “It was so vivid. We were ... we were in a car, I think. And there was a crash and I couldn’t ... I couldn’t reach you.”

Max’s heart clenches. Is this a memory of your accident trying to surface?

“It felt so real,” you continue. “And when I woke up, I was so scared and confused. I couldn’t remember where I was or why you weren’t there. I just knew I needed you.”

“I’m here now,” Max says, cupping your face gently. “I’ll always come when you need me.”

You lean into his touch, closing your eyes. “I’m sorry for making you fly out in the middle of the night.”

Max shakes his head. “Don’t apologize. There’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

You open your eyes, meeting his gaze. There’s something different there, something Max can’t quite identify.

“Max,” you say slowly, “I think ... I think I remembered something.”

His breath catches. “What did you remember?”

You furrow your brow, concentrating. “It’s not clear. Just ... feelings, mostly. But when you walked in, when you held me ... it felt familiar. Safe. Like ... like coming home.”

Max feels hope bloom in his chest. “That’s good, schatje. That’s really good. It means the memories are still there, even if they’re hard to reach right now.”

You nod, then yawn widely. The emotional toll of the night is clearly catching up with you.

“You should try to get some sleep,” Max says, moving to stand up.

But you grab his hand, holding him in place. “Will you ... will you stay? Just until I fall asleep?”

Max’s heart swells. “Of course. As long as you need.”

You scoot over, making room for him on the bed. Max kicks off his shoes and lies down next to you, careful to maintain a respectful distance.

But you close that distance, curling into his side like it’s the most natural thing in the world. And for a moment, it feels like nothing has changed. Like the accident never happened.

“Tell me a story,” you mumble, already half-asleep. “About us.”

Max smiles, wrapping an arm around you. “Okay. How about the time we tried to teach Jimmy and Sassy to swim?”

You make a soft sound of agreement, nuzzling closer.

As Max recounts the tale of your misadventures with the cats and a kiddie pool, he feels you relax against him, your breathing evening out.

He continues the story even after he’s sure you’re asleep, partly out of habit, partly because he’s not ready for this moment to end.

Eventually, he falls silent, just listening to your steady breathing. He knows he should leave, go sleep in the guest room or on the couch. But he can’t bring himself to move, to break this fragile peace.

Just a few more minutes, he tells himself. Just a little longer.

Before he knows it, sunlight is streaming through the windows. Max blinks awake, momentarily disoriented. Then he feels you stir against him, and everything comes rushing back.

You lift your head, looking up at him with sleep-clouded eyes. For a moment, just a moment, Max sees recognition there. The look you used to give him every morning.

But then you blink, and it’s gone, replaced by confusion, then embarrassment.

“Oh God,” you mutter, sitting up quickly. “Max, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to keep you here all night.”

Max sits up too, trying to ignore the ache in his heart at the loss of contact. “It’s okay. I wanted to be here.”

You run a hand through your hair, not meeting his eyes. “Last night ... it’s all a bit fuzzy. Did I ... did I say anything? About remembering?”

Max nods slowly. “You said being with me felt familiar. Like coming home.”

You’re quiet for a long moment, staring at your hands. “I wish I could remember more,” you say finally, your voice small. “It’s all still so ... jumbled.”

Max reaches out, then stops himself, unsure if the touch would be welcome. “It’s okay. We’ll figure this out together.”

You look up at him then, a small smile on your face. “Together,” you repeat. “I like the sound of that.”

There’s a soft knock at the door, and your mother pokes her head in. “Oh good, you’re both awake. Breakfast is ready if you’re hungry.”

As you both stand to head downstairs, Max feels a mix of emotions. Disappointment that the night didn’t lead to a magical recovery of your memories. Hope at the small signs of progress. And an overwhelming sense of love for you, memory or no memory.

He knows the road ahead is still long and uncertain. But as he watches you smile at something your mother says, he feels more certain than ever that it’s a road worth traveling.

Because even if you can’t remember all of your history together, you’re still you. Still the woman he fell in love with. And he’ll spend every day helping you rediscover that love, one memory at a time.

***

The rhythmic clanging of weights fills the air as Max pushes through another set of bench presses. Sweat beads on his forehead, his muscles straining with each repetition. Rupert stands nearby, counting softly and offering encouragement.

“Nine ... ten ... good, Max. One more set and we’ll move on.”

The sharp ring of Max’s phone cuts through the gym’s atmosphere. Max grunts, arms shaking as he finishes his reps.

“Can you grab that, Rupert? Might be important.”

Rupert nods, retrieving the phone from Max’s gym bag. “It’s Y/N’s parents,” he says, eyebrows raised.

Max’s heart skips a beat. “Put it on speaker,” he says quickly, sitting up on the bench.

Rupert answers the call, holding the phone out between them. “Hello? This is Rupert, Max’s trainer. You’re on speaker.”

“Oh, hello Rupert,” comes the familiar voice of your mother. “Is Max there? We have some news.”

“I’m here,” Max says, leaning closer to the phone. “What’s going on? Is Y/N okay?”

There’s a pause, and Max feels his anxiety spike. Then, your father’s voice comes through, barely containing his excitement.

“Max, it’s ... it’s incredible. Y/N says she can remember. Not everything, but ... a lot. She woke up this morning and it was like a flood of memories just came back to her.”

The words hit Max like a physical force. He stands abruptly, forgetting the weight still balanced precariously on his legs. It crashes to the floor with a deafening clang, missing Rupert’s foot by mere inches.

“Whoa!” Rupert yelps, jumping back. “Easy there, Max!”

But Max barely notices. His entire world has narrowed to the voice coming from the phone. “She ... she remembers? Are you sure? How much does she remember?”

Your mother’s voice comes back on. “It’s still patchy, but she remembers you, Max. She remembers your life together, your home in Monaco. She’s been talking about the cats all morning.”

Max feels his knees go weak. He sits back down heavily on the bench, his head spinning. “Can I ... can I talk to her?”

“I’m afraid she’s with the doctors right now,” your father explains. “They want to run some tests, make sure everything’s okay. But she’s been asking for you. We thought you’d want to know right away.”

Max nods, then remembers they can’t see him. “Yes, of course. Thank you. I’ll be there as soon as I can. I’ll take the jet, I can be there in”

“Actually,” your mother interrupts, “Y/N has been asking to come home. To Monaco. She says she misses you, and the cats, and ... well, her life with you.”

Max feels a lump form in his throat. “She wants to come home?” He repeats, his voice barely above a whisper.

“If that’s alright with you,” your father adds quickly. “We understand if you need time to prepare, or if you think it’s too soon”

“No!” Max exclaims, perhaps a bit too loudly. He clears his throat. “I mean, no, it’s not too soon. It’s perfect. I can send the jet for her right away. If ... if that’s what she wants.”

He can hear the smile in your mother’s voice as she responds. “It is. She’s quite insistent, actually. Says she wants to sleep in her own bed.”

Max feels a grin spreading across his face. “I’ll make the arrangements right away. Can you have her ready to go in ... let’s say five hours?”

“We can do that,” your father confirms. “And Max? She’s ... she’s really excited to see you.”

Max swallows hard, emotion threatening to overwhelm him. “I can’t wait to see her too. Thank you both, for everything.”

As the call ends, Max looks up to see Rupert grinning at him. “So,” his trainer says, “I’m guessing our workout is over for the day?”

Max laughs, a sound of pure joy and relief. “Yeah, I’d say so. Sorry about almost crushing your foot.”

Rupert waves it off. “Small price to pay for good news like that. Go on, get out of here. Go prepare for Y/N’s homecoming.”

Max doesn’t need to be told twice. He’s already dialing his pilot as he rushes towards the locker room. “Frank? I need the jet ready as soon as possible. We need to pick someone up ...”

That evening, Max is pacing the length of his — your — living room, unable to keep still. He’s tidied the already immaculate apartment three times, checked on the cats twice, and changed his shirt four times.

Max takes a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. He sinks onto the couch, and immediately Jimmy jumps into his lap.

“Hey, buddy,” Max murmurs, scratching behind the cat’s ears. “Mama’s coming home. You excited?”

Jimmy purrs in response, kneading Max’s leg. Sassy, not to be left out, appears from nowhere and curls up next to them.

“Yeah, me too,” Max says softly. He looks around the apartment, memories flooding back. Your first night here together, nervous and excited about taking this step. Lazy Sunday mornings cuddled on this very couch. The time you tried to teach him to dance in the living room, both of you laughing so hard you could barely stand.

The next hour crawls by at an agonizing pace. Max alternates between sitting rigidly on the couch and pacing the floor. He checks his phone obsessively, waiting for updates.

Finally, blessedly, his phone rings. It’s his pilot. “We’ve landed, boss. Y/N’s parents are helping her into the car now. Should be at your place in about 20 minutes.”

Max feels his heart rate double. “Thanks, Frank. Until next time.”

The next 20 minutes are the longest of Max’s life. He stands by the window, watching the street below, waiting for the familiar black SUV to appear.

When it finally does, Max feels like he might pass out. He watches as the car pulls up, as the driver gets out to open the back door. And then ... there you are.

You look tired, a bit pale, but to Max, you’ve never been more beautiful. You look up at the building, a soft smile playing on your lips. And then your eyes meet his through the window.

Max feels his breath catch in his throat. Because in that moment, he sees it. Recognition. Love. You’re really back.

He’s at the door in an instant, yanking it open just as you step off the elevator. For a moment, you both freeze, taking each other in.

“Max,” you whisper, and it’s the sweetest sound he’s ever heard.

“Y/N,” he breathes, and then you’re in his arms.

He holds you tightly, burying his face in your hair, breathing you in. You cling to him just as fiercely, and he can feel your tears soaking through his shirt.

“I’m sorry,” you murmur against his chest. “I’m so sorry I forgot you.”

Max pulls back just enough to look into your eyes, his hands cupping your face. “Hey, no. You have nothing to be sorry for. You’re here now. You’re home.”

You nod, a watery smile on your face. “I am. I remember, Max. Not everything, not yet. But I remember us. I remember loving you.”

Max feels tears spill down his cheeks, but he doesn’t care. He leans in, pressing his forehead to yours. “I love you so much, liefje. God, I was so scared I’d lost you.”

You shake your head, your hands coming up to wipe away his tears. “Never. You could never lose me, Max Verstappen. Not really.”

And then you’re kissing, and it’s like coming home after a long, difficult journey. It’s familiar and new all at once, and Max never wants it to end.

A loud meow interrupts the moment. You break apart, laughing, to see Jimmy and Sassy winding around your feet, demanding attention.

“Oh, my babies!” You exclaim, kneeling down to scoop them up. “I missed you too!”

Max watches, his heart so full it feels like it might burst. This is what he’s been missing, what he’s been fighting for. You, here, in your home, with your little family.

As you straighten up, cats in arms, Max wraps an arm around your waist. “Welcome home,” he says softly.

You lean into him, a contented sigh escaping your lips. “It’s good to be home.”

Max knows there’s still a long road ahead. Your memory isn’t fully restored, and there will be challenges to face. But right now, in this moment, with you in his arms, he knows everything will be okay.

Because you remembered. You came home. And together, you can face anything.

***

The neon lights of Las Vegas blur into streaks of color as Max races through the city streets, his Red Bull car a blur of blue and red and yellow. The roar of the engine fills his ears, but it can’t drown out the beating of his own heart. This race feels different, more important than any he’s ever driven before.

As he navigates a tight corner, Max’s mind flashes back to the conversation that led him here...

“Max, you need to go back,” you had said, your voice gentle but firm. “Racing is part of who you are. I’m better now, and I want to see you out there doing what you love.”

Max had shaken his head, pulling you closer on the couch. “But what if something happens? What if you need me?”

You had laughed, a sound that still made his heart skip a beat. “I’ll always need you, silly. But I don’t need you hovering over me 24/7. Plus,” you added with a mischievous grin, “I miss seeing you in that race suit.”

Now, as he pushes the car to its limits, Max feels a renewed sense of purpose. He’s not just racing for himself anymore, or for the team. He’s racing for you, to make you proud, to show you that your faith in him wasn’t misplaced.

“Max, you’re pulling away,” GP’s voice crackles through the radio. “Gap to P2 is now 3.5 seconds. Keep this up, mate.”

Max grunts in acknowledgment, too focused to form words. He knows you’re watching from the garage, probably biting your nails like you always do during his races. The thought makes him smile behind his helmet.

Lap after lap, Max maintains his lead. The famous Las Vegas Strip becomes a blur of light and shadow as he speeds past the iconic hotels and casinos. In the back of his mind, he remembers your excitement when you found out about this race.

“Vegas, Max! It’s going to be incredible. Promise me we’ll stay a few extra days after the race?”

He had promised, of course. He’d promise you the moon if you asked for it.

As the final laps approach, Max’s concentration intensifies. He’s been in this position before, leading a race, victory within grasp. But it’s never felt quite like this.

“Two laps to go,” GP informs him. “You’ve got this. Just bring it home.”

Max takes a deep breath, visualizing the remaining track in his mind. He can almost hear your voice, the way you’d whisper “You’ve got this” before every race, a private moment just for the two of you amidst the pre-race chaos.

The last lap arrives, and Max is in the zone. Every turn, every straight, every gear change is perfect. As he rounds the final corner, the chequered flag comes into view.

“Yes!” Max shouts as he crosses the finish line, pumping his fist in the air. The team erupts in cheers over the radio, but Max is waiting for one particular voice.

“Brilliant drive, Max!” GP exclaims. “Absolute masterclass. How does it feel to be back on the top step?”

Max takes a moment to catch his breath, emotions threatening to overwhelm him. When he speaks, his voice is thick with feeling.

“It feels ... it feels incredible,” he says. “But this win, it’s not for me. It’s for Y/N.”

He can hear the surprise and emotion in GP’s voice as he responds. “That’s beautiful. I’m sure she’s over the moon right now.”

As Max begins his cool-down lap, he continues, knowing his words are being broadcast to millions around the world, but speaking only to you.

“Y/N, liefje, this one’s for you. For your strength, your courage, your unwavering support. You pushed me to come back even when I wanted to stay home with you. You believed in me when I doubted myself. This victory is yours as much as it’s mine.”

He pauses, swallowing hard. “I love you, Y/N. More than any trophy, any championship. You’re my biggest win.”

As he pulls into parc fermé, Max can see the team gathered, ready to celebrate. But his eyes scan the crowd, looking for only one person.

And there you are, pushing through the throng of mechanics and officials. Your eyes are shining with tears, but your smile is radiant.

Max practically leaps out of the car, not even bothering with his helmet. He meets you halfway, sweeping you up in his arms and spinning you around.

“You did it!” You exclaim, laughing and crying at the same time. “Oh Max, I’m so proud of you!”

Max sets you down but doesn’t let go, pressing his forehead to yours. “No, we did it. I couldn’t have done this without you.”

You shake your head, still smiling. “This was all you, Max. I just watched from the sidelines.”

“You’ve never been on the sidelines,” Max says firmly. “You’re the reason I’m here. The reason I push myself to be better, on and off the track.”

Before you can respond, the team descends upon them, whooping and cheering. Max is pulled away for the podium ceremony, but his eyes never leave you.

The champagne flows, the anthems play, but it all feels like a blur to Max. All he can think about is getting back to you, celebrating properly.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity of photos and interviews, Max is able to escape back to the team’s hospitality area. You’re waiting for him, a glass of champagne in hand and a proud smile on your face.

“There’s my champion,” you say softly as he approaches.

Max pulls you close, not caring who might be watching. “I meant what I said on the radio,” he murmurs. “This win is yours.”

You laugh, a sound that still makes his heart soar. “Well, in that case, I guess I should start preparing my acceptance speech for the Prize Giving Ceremony.”

Max grins, playing along. “Oh yeah? And what would this speech entail?”

You pretend to think for a moment. “Let’s see … I’d like to thank the academy, and of course, my incredibly handsome and talented boyfriend, without whom none of this would be possible ...”

Max laughs, feeling lighter than he has in months. “Handsome and talented, huh? I like the sound of that.”

You smack his arm playfully. “Don’t let it go to your head, Verstappen. I’ve seen you first thing in the morning, remember?”

“Hey, I thought you said I was cute when I’m all sleepy and rumpled,” Max protests.

“Cute, yes. Handsome is a stretch,” you tease.

Max clutches his chest in mock offense. “You wound me. And after I just dedicated my win to you and everything.”

You soften, reaching up to cup his face. “It was beautiful, Max. Really. I don’t know what I did to deserve you.”

Max turns serious, covering your hand with his own. “You existed. That’s more than enough.”

You stand there for a moment, lost in each other’s eyes, the celebration continuing around you unnoticed.

Finally, Max breaks the silence. “So, about that promise to stay a few extra days in Vegas ...”

Your eyes light up. “Oh, you remembered! I was hoping you would.”

Max grins. “Of course I remembered. I was thinking... maybe we could make it a bit more special than just a few extra days?”

You raise an eyebrow, intrigued. “What did you have in mind?”

Max takes a deep breath, suddenly nervous. This wasn’t how he’d planned to do this, but standing here with you, flush with victory and love, it feels right.

“Well,” he says slowly, reaching into his pocket, “I was thinking maybe we could celebrate our engagement.”

Your eyes widen as Max drops to one knee, pulling out a small velvet box. The noise of the celebration fades away, leaving just the two of you in your own little bubble.

“Y/N,” Max begins, his voice shaky but determined, “these past few months have been the hardest of my life. But they’ve also shown me, without a doubt, that you’re the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. Through good times and bad, wins and losses, I want you by my side.”

He opens the box, revealing a stunning diamond ring. “Will you marry me?”

You gasp, tears filling your eyes. For a heart-stopping moment, Max fears he’s misjudged, moved too fast. But then you’re nodding, a radiant smile breaking through the tears.

“Yes,” you whisper. “Yes, Max. A thousand times yes.”

Max slips the ring onto your finger with trembling hands, then stands to pull you into a passionate kiss. The team, finally noticing what’s happening, erupts into cheers and applause.

As you break apart, breathless and giddy, Max rests his forehead against yours. “I love you. More than I ever thought possible.”

You beam up at him, your eyes shining with happiness. “I love you too. Always and forever.”

As the team swarms around them, offering congratulations and calling for more champagne, Max holds you close. This, he realizes, is his true victory. Not the race win, not the trophies or the championships. But this moment, with you in his arms, promising a future together.

***

Emma settles into her favorite armchair, a steaming mug of tea on the side table and Max Verstappen’s newly released autobiography in her hands. As a long-time fan of Formula 1 and Max in particular, she’s been eagerly anticipating this book.

She flips through the early chapters, smiling at familiar stories of Max’s rise through the ranks of motorsport. But it’s the chapter titled “The Race of My Life” that catches her attention. This, she knows, is where Max will finally open up about the period when he stepped away from racing — a time that had puzzled and worried fans.

As Emma begins reading, she’s immediately struck by the raw emotion in Max’s words.

I thought I knew what pressure was. The weight of expectations, the split-second decisions that could mean victory or defeat. But nothing in my racing career could have prepared me for the day I walked into that hospital room and saw the love of my life look at me without a hint of recognition.

Emma feels a lump form in her throat. She remembers the press conference where Max had revealed the reason for his absence, but this ... this is different. This is Max laying bare his soul in a way she’s never seen before.

In that moment, I realized that all the trophies, all the victories, all the adoration from fans — none of it mattered. The true test of my life wasn’t on any track. It was right there, in that sterile hospital room, facing the possibility of losing the one person who saw me not as Max Verstappen the driver, but just as Max.

Emma finds herself blinking back tears. She’s always admired Max for his skill on the track, his determination, his fierce competitiveness. But this vulnerability, this raw honesty, shows a side of him she never knew existed.

The chapter continues, detailing the days and weeks following the accident. Max describes the pain of seeing you struggle to remember, the hope that would flare with each small recognition, and the crushing disappointment when progress stalled.

I’ve faced some of the best drivers in the world, pushed myself to the absolute limit of human capability. But nothing — nothing — has ever been as challenging as sitting by her bedside, day after day, telling her stories of our life together and seeing no spark of remembrance in her eyes. It was like watching the person I loved most in the world slip away, inch by inch, and being powerless to stop it.

Emma has to pause her reading, overwhelmed by the emotion. She tries to imagine what it must have been like for Max, known for his control and precision on the track, to face a situation where he had no control at all.

As she continues reading, she’s struck by Max’s honesty about his own struggles during this time:

There were moments — dark, terrible moments — when I wondered if it would be easier to walk away. To accept that the woman I loved was gone, replaced by this stranger who wore her face but didn’t know my heart. The guilt I felt for even thinking such thoughts nearly crushed me. But I realized that true love, real love, isn’t just about the easy times. It’s about choosing to stay, to fight, even when every instinct is screaming at you to run.

Emma finds herself nodding, moved by Max’s profound realization. She remembers following his career, cheering his victories, sympathizing with his defeats. But this … this feels like she’s truly seeing the man behind the racer for the first time.

The chapter takes a turn as Max describes the day you started to remember:

When she looked at me that day, really looked at me, and I saw recognition in her eyes — it was like winning every championship, every race, all at once. No podium celebration could ever compare to the joy of hearing her say my name, of feeling her arms around me, knowing that she remembered us, our love, our life together.

Emma feels tears rolling down her cheeks now, unashamed. She’s always been moved by stories of love and perseverance, but knowing this is real, that it happened to someone she’s admired for so long, makes it all the more powerful.

As the chapter nears its end, Max reflects on how this experience changed him:

I returned to racing eventually, but I was never the same driver … or the same man. I had faced my greatest fear and come out the other side. I had learned that there are things more precious than any trophy, more thrilling than any race. I learned the true meaning of love, of commitment, of fighting for what really matters in life.

Emma closes the book, needing a moment to process everything she’s read. She feels like she’s seen a completely new side of Max Verstappen, one that goes far beyond the confident, sometimes brash young driver she remembers.

Picking up her phone, she opens Twitter, scrolling through reactions to the book. It seems she’s not alone in her emotional response. Fans and fellow drivers alike are sharing their thoughts.

Just finished @Max33Verstappen’s book. I’m in tears. What an incredible story of love and perseverance ❤️

Always respected Max as a driver, but this book shows what a truly remarkable person he is.

Emma adds her own tweet to the mix.

Thank you, @Max33Verstappen, for sharing your story. You’ve shown us that the greatest victories in life often happen off the track 🥺

She picks up the book again, turning to the final pages of the chapter. Max’s closing words resonate deeply.

In the end, life isn’t about the races you win or the records you break. It’s about the people you love, the bonds you forge, the differences you make. My greatest achievement isn’t any trophy or title. It’s the life I’ve built with her, the love we’ve nurtured through good times and bad. That’s my true legacy, and it’s one that will last far beyond when the chequered flag last waves for me.

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tammyfortis

2 years ago

Bad Day

Pairing: Rooster x Wife!Reader

Author’s Note: Three new fics in one day? Who is she? Someone who’s super excited about having her weeklong shadowban finally lifted, that’s who!

This one is based on this Anon request. Hope you enjoy!

Warnings: Stressful day, overwhelmed reader, slight insecurities, brief mention of breastfeeding, an obscene amount of fluff.

Today had been a day.

To start it all off, your alarm hadn’t gone off. You had woken up earlier in the morning to make breakfast for Rooster before he left for work, but you had been certain you’d double checked the alarm on your phone before going back to sleep. When you’d opened your eyes, however, surprised at how much sunlight was streaming through the window, you’d realized with a frantic yelp that you had overslept.

Keep reading

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