Chapter 10
JESSICA
I’m standing at the Star News site, gazing thoughtfully down at my new notebook.
It’s a stunning burgundy red, soft to the touch, with my initials delicately embossed on the front cover.
Inside, it features a comprehensive calendar with all the different races meticulously written in, alongside sections designated for stats, notes, and even a special space where I can affix Polaroid pictures from each trip, capturing the memories along the way.
Every detail seems perfectly curated, making it not just a notebook but a cherished companion for my journeys.
As I browse through the book, I find a small note tucked into one of the pages.
Still thinking about that kiss
- L
I sigh, regretting that I didn’t give him a proper kiss in thanks when he dropped by earlier.
If I had his number, this would be the time to let him know just how much I’m also thinking about that kiss.
Clinging to the notebook, I think this truly is a perfect gift after a perfect date.
◆◆◆
Just as I finish my notes, I hear two girls a few rows down talking about the latest gossip in the paddock.
Normally, I don’t get involved in gossip columns since I’m more interested in what’s happening on the track, but when I hear Luke’s name, I perk up.
“Have you heard? Luke Hastings is apparently seeing a new girl.” I’m instantly alert.
Did someone spot us yesterday? Maybe someone’s seen us together in the paddock.
I look around to see if anyone else is paying attention to the girls and their conversation, but it seems I’m the only one within hearing distance.
“Yeah, I saw the post. Imagine dating Victoria Jensen; they would be such a power couple, both racing and winning on their own ends.” I feel my heart sink.
Self-doubt creeps in, making me feel dizzy and uneasy, and I try to calm my thoughts and breathing, but I don’t succeed.
I’ve been following the introduction of the new division in Formula sports to include more women, and Victoria is one of the leading figures for female empowerment in a male-dominated field.
She’s beautiful, and I feel a heavy weight in my chest when the girls keep gushing about when their first official sighting will be.
I tell Steve that I need to take a break because I’m not feeling well, and then head back to the bus.
It’s probably just gossip. People in the media thrive on good stories, and even though I prefer reporting facts, I know others are willing to sacrifice the truth for more website clicks.
I try to calm my nerves and remind myself that Luke wouldn’t betray me like this.
He’s a good guy, and I should talk to him before jumping to any conclusions.
It may feel daunting to be in the presence of a figure like Luke, but I try to work through my insecurities, not letting doubt cloud my judgment.
Once I’ve settled down and regained control, I head back to our spot and get ready for the race.
◆◆◆
The race is flying by, and just when the standings seem to have evened out, rain begins rolling in over the track. Suddenly, everything is up for grabs.
Who will pit for intermediate tires?
Who will stay out and hope the rain eases quickly?
The intermediate tires are specifically designed for wet conditions.
All the strategists on the teams are calculating risks and assessing their options.
The BMW team takes a gamble and decides to keep Luke out while other teams start pitting for intermediate tires.
It becomes clear that BMW made the wrong decision when the cars behind start eating up the seconds Luke had in front.
I’m biting my nails and sitting on the edge of my seat, hoping he can hold on until he reaches the next lap when it’s clear he has to pit for intermediate tires.
The car is sliding in the high-speed corners of the track, and when he finally makes it around and into the pit, four drivers pass him before he’s out on the track again.
“Can you believe that? BMW is messing up a championship lead so easily.” Andrew says beside me, and I just shake my head, hoping he will be able to regain the position.
Unfortunately, the rain intensifies, and they bring out the safety car, which means that no driver can overtake another.
“Unbelievable,” I mutter as they cross the finish line, with Peter Centimo winning.
He’s a leading driver at Audi and is often described as the biggest rival to Luke for the championship this year.
They are expected to be the two main characters in this year’s season—the golden boy versus the bad boy.
Unlike Luke, Peter has already won a championship, giving him the confidence of knowing he is capable. Luke has everything to prove, and even if it’s all relying on team strategy, this result will still set Luke back in the standings against Peter.
Now the season begins with Peter in the lead.
Luckily, the season has just started, so everything is still up for grabs.
After the race, chaos erupts in the media zone.
The race was an absolute shit show with the whole grid changing places as soon as it started raining.
The hot topic, of course, is the failure of the BMW strategy. Their mistake will set them back right from the start.
Everyone wants a piece of Luke, which means we’re not able to have our own interview with him.
It must be tough for him.
A strategy mistake, which is beyond his control, ruins his race, and then he’s the one who has to make time for media and interviews afterward.
It is part of his job, but I’m left with a feeling of hopelessness, as I’m unable to support him in any way.
◆◆◆
When the day is over, we head out for our Star News Sunday dinner. The team usually goes out at least once a week to eat together, usually after the race. It’s like a family tradition, and it makes me miss home a bit more.
Still, it’s nice having my own little family away from home.
Even though I want to wait in case Luke shows up, I decide that a couple of hours won’t hurt, as he’s probably going to be busy for the next few hours anyway.