pairings: f1 grid x driver!reader (she/her pronouns)
warnings: angst. angst. angst. swearing. like a lot of swearing. i cannot write crashes/contact for the life of me. argument. lando and reader are assholes in this.
author's note: dont even ask me why i wrote this, i got inspired and needed it out of my system. lol.
masterlist
''Retire the car. Too much damage. Sorry, Y/N.'' Marco informed her over the radio, sounding frustrated and apologetic over her already finished race.
The driver took a deep breath before answering. ''Too bad, it was going well. Thanks, guys.''
Her race had in fact been going well. She'd made a great start going from P4 to P2, and had managed to keep up with the Red Bull of Max. They weren't even halfway in the race or Lando tried overtaking her, causing contact, causing her to run off in the gravel with too much trouble on the car to continue.
In her opinion, it had been reckless. The McLaren driver knew exactly she would end up being forced off the track by the overtake, and that her race would most likely be over because of it.
As she trudged back to the garage, helmet in hand, she could barely contain her frustration. The team greeted her with sympathetic looks, but she didn't stop to talk to anyone. She headed straight for her driver's room, needing a moment to cool off before she could face the media.
Her hands trembled with anger as she peeled off her gloves, tossing them onto a nearby chair. The season hadn't been going how she had hoped or even expected it to go. Last year she had been the vice World Champion, the undisputed second-best driver on the grid, the only one to essentially have been able to challenge Max's dominance. Now, she got lucky to even end up in the top five of a race. Her team's design of the car hadn't been meeting the expectations the engineers had set, and upgrades weren't helping in the way they had hoped.
That is why this race weekend had been a great boost for the team's morale and confidence. Qualifying had gone really well, and for a moment they were able to fight for the win even. But the papaya car of No. 4 had shoved their hopes down the drain.
Minutes later, there was a knock on the door. She turned to see Marco standing there, looking concerned. ''You okay?''
''Have I ever been okay,'' she remarked, a sarcastic chuckle leaving her lips. ''I'm just pissed, that's all. I had high hopes for today.''
''We all did,'' he smiled sadly. ''The stewards reviewed the incident, but he, uh, didn't get a penalty.'' He said softly, almost as if he was afraid of her reaction.
The young woman let out a bitter laugh. ''Of course he didn't, why would he?'' Her hands covered her face, briefly wiping off the sweat that had formed.
Marco took a step closer, his expression a mix of empathy and disappointment. ''You drove brilliantly out there. Everyone saw it. The team saw it. It's just... racing politics sometimes.''
She dropped her hands, meeting his eyes with a mixture of anger and resignation. ''It's always like that, though. It's always the same drivers suffering the consequences of others, and they don't get shit for it. It is fucking annoying.''
Her engineer nodded, understanding everything she was saying. ''I know, we all know. But we keep fighting. We keep pushing. This season isn't over yet.''
''Yeah, true.'' She sighed.
Marco gave her a reassuring smile. ''We'll be ready for the next race. We're all in this together, okay? We're all behind you.''
She nodded, feeling a small measure of comfort in his words. ''Thanks, I appreciate it.'' They shared a quick embrace, before he left to join the team again. Meanwhile she got herself ready to go to the media pen. As much as she wanted to hide away, she knew it was part of the job.
Since she had an early exit, there wasn't much activity inside the area, though there were a bunch of reporters waiting for her.
''Y/N, tough race today. Can you tell us what happened from your perspective?'' The reporter asked after briefly greeting her.
''Yeah, it was, uh, challenging, I guess,'' she plastered a smile on her face. ''We had a great start, moving up to P2 and keeping pace with Max. Then, yeah, the contact with Lando. The car had a bunch of damage, and we decided to just retire the car.''
''Do you think it was a fair move by him?'' He followed up.
She paused, weighing her response. ''Racing is always intense, especially at this level. I don't think it was the right move to make, but the stewards saw it as a racing incident. I'll respect their decision, but it doesn't make it any less frustrating.''
''You and Lando are good friends, and have been racing against each other since your karting days. Will you talk to him afterwards or just forget about it?''
They had expected a question like this, so the media-trained answer came out very quickly. ''It was deemed a racing incident, so there is not much to say further about it.''
''How do you and your team plan to bounce back from this setback?'' The reporter for Sky Sports changed the topic.
''We'll regroup and come back stronger,'' she answered, injecting as much determination into her voice as she could muster. ''This season has been tough, but my team and I are committed to pushing forward. We learn from every race, and today is no different.''
''That's great, thank you, Y/N.'' They wrapped up the interview, and she moved onto a new one.
Once she had spoken to everyone she needed to speak to, she finally had a moment to herself. She knew the words she had just spoken were the right ones, but they did little to soothe the turmoil inside her.
It didn't help that Lando managed to take the lead, and eventually get his first win. As she watched the remainder of the race from the sidelines, her emotions were all over the place. On the one hand, she was proud of her friend for finally making his dream come true. However, it had come at the expense of her race. She had pushed so hard this season, and to see her friend and rival celebrate his triumph while she stood there with nothing but frustration was almost unbearable.
The cheers from the McLaren garage echoed in her ears. They celebrated wildly, the joy of his long-awaited victory palpable even from a distance. He was swarmed by his team as they shouted his name.
The podium ceremony was even worse. As Lando stood on the top step, the British national anthem playing in the background, she couldn't help but replay the moment that had ended her race. She could see the excitement in his eyes, the genuine happiness that came with achieving a lifelong dream. But all she could think about was the contact, the gravel trap, and the wrecked potential of what could have been her race.
Under any other circumstance, she would have been there for him. She would have run to the ceremony herself, just like he had done for her when she got her first win in F1 and made history as the first woman to do so. But it just stung too deep.
''Lando, there was an incident with Y/N that resulted in her retiring from the race. Can you tell us what happened there?'' The Dutch reporter asked the race winner.
Lando's expression shifted slightly, the euphoria dimming just a bit. ''Uh, yeah. I saw a gap and went for it. It was a tight move, and unfortunately, it led to some contact. But that's racing, you know.''
''Have you spoken to her yet?''
''Not yet,'' he admitted. ''But I don't think there is much to talk about.'' He chuckled, quickly glancing sideways, but his laugh seemed forced.
''She told Sky Sports that she didn't think you made the right move there.'' The journalist said, instigating a headline for them to be able to use.
Lando frowned at his words, but recovered. ''Well, that's her opinion. It was just racing for me.''
''So you don't regret making the move?'' The reporter pressed on.
The Brit took a deep breath before answering. ''I regret that it ended her race. But as a racer, you have to take chances. It's a fine line, you know.''
The older man in front of him nodded at his response, knowing they had gotten a glimpse of the tension that was present between the fan-favorite duo. ''Thank you, Lando. Congratulations again.''
''Thank you.''
With that, the interview wrapped up, and Lando moved onto the next reporter. As he walked away, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease. He didn't think he had done anything wrong, so why was everyone talking to him as if he had done something wrong?
Y/N was struggling to unwind. The events of the day played over and over in her mind, each replay more frustrating than the last. She tried to distract herself by either watching some TikToks or TV, but nothing could drown out her thoughts. The texts from her friends, family and team certainly didn't help. It was a nice gesture, but she didn't want to think about the race anymore and the messages weren't helping. Finally, she decided to call it a night and climbed into bed, hoping sleep would offer some respite.
Just as she was starting to drift off, another knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. It was unusual for someone to bother her this late, especially when she was winding down in her hotel room.
She frowned and got out of bed, opening the door to find Lando standing there, wearing his signature grin, acting nonchalant as ever. ''You wanna come celebrate with us? We rented a club.''
Y/N frowned at him, confused over his casual behavior. ''No.'' She scoffed, offended by the mere thought.
It was now Lando's turn to frown at his friend. ''Why?''
She crossed her arms, incredulous at his obliviousness. ''Why? Are you taking the fucking piss out of me or something.''
His grin faltered slightly, but he tried to maintain his composure. ''If this is about the racing incident then you're being ridiculous.''
Her eyes widened in disbelief, her frustration boiling over. ''I am being ridiculous? You were ridiculous with that move you pulled!'' She retorted, raising her voice. ''You ran me off the track knowing how hard this season has fucking been for me. You know how much I needed a good result today and you ruined it for me!''
''Y/N, I get that you're upset, but it's racing. These things are bound to happen. I saw a gap and I went for it. The stewards didn't even penalize me, so clearly, it wasn't as bad as you're making it out to be.'' He was restraining from rolling his eyes, she could tell.
She scoffed, shaking her head. ''Oh, so now you're agreeing with the stewards? Now that it is benefitting you? And there was no fucking gap, you were just being selfish. You knew what you were doing, and you didn't care how it would affect me.''
Lando's face hardened, his patience wearing thin. ''I didn't do it on purpose to screw you over, where the fuck are you getting that from? I saw an opportunity, and I took it. That's what we do out there. You know that better than anyone."
''If that opportunity was ruining my fucking race, then yeah, you really took the opportunity, Norris.'' She rolled her eyes, voice tinged with sarcasm.
He took a step closer, his frustration now matching hers. ''I'm sorry that you didn't get the result you wanted today, I really am. But I am not going to apologize for racing and doing my job, Y/N.''
She simply glared at him, disappointed in how he was acting towards her. They'd never really had an argument before, at least not one where they couldn't see each other's point. They'd been frustrated with each other before, but it was always in reason.
''If anything, I should be angry with you- not the other way.'' Lando suddenly said.
''Why's that?'' She sneered, almost in disbelief that he would have a valid reason.
''Because you didn't even have the fucking guts to congratulate me,'' he snapped back, ''when you won Silverstone, I was literally one of the first people to hug you and congratulate you for your win. I stood next to your fucking parents, Y/N! And today you didn't even bother doing anything.''
Her mouth fell open, a mix of shock and anger flooding her veins. ''You are unbelievable… You ruined my fucking race, Lando! How am I supposed to stand there and cheer for you when you cost me everything today?''
He rolled his eyes while throwing up his hands. ''This isn't just about today. You're just jealous because my season has been going so much better than yours. You can't fucking stand that for one time I'm doing actually better than you.''
''Jealous… of you?'' The words came out like laughter, slightly hurting the McLaren driver's ego. ''You think I can't be happy for you because I'm not doing as well? That's so low, Lando.''
''Ever since the start of the season you've been so moody and distant, and now you can't even say or even fucking text me a congratulations for my first win. You're so pissed that I got a win before you this season, you can't even hide it.'' He shot back.
''Oh, give me a break. Like you wouldn't act the same if you were getting all these shit results. Maybe I didn't congratulate you because I was too busy trying to scrape gravel out of my fucking tires.'' She remarked, throwing in the sarcastic comment.
Lando looked unimpressed by her remark. ''You're just mad cause I'm outshining you. You can't fucking stand that I'm getting all the attention.''
''Outshining me? Are you hearing yourself?'' She mocked him, laughing bitterly. ''You get one win and you're acting like you're a fucking World Champion already. You've been riding Max's dick these last years hoping some of his success will rub off on you. Newsflash Norris, everyone is just fucking laughing at you.''
His face turned red, either embarrassment or anger. ''At least I'm not constantly whining about my car and blaming everyone else for my problems. Maybe if you spent more time focusing on your driving and less on complaining, you'd have more to celebrate.''
''You're a fucking spoiled brat who can't stand some competition. You think everything should be handed to you on a silver platter.'' She retorted.
''And you're a fucking baby who throws a temper tantrum everytime you don't get what you want. It's time to fucking grow up, Y/N!'' He shouted, his voice rising with each word.
She took a step closer to him. ''You should spend less time trying to prove yourself to people who don't give a shit about you, and more time trying to be a decent fucking human being. I'm ashamed to call you one of my best friends.''
That last sentence had clearly hit a nerve or several nerves. He shook his head, taking a few steps back. ''Fuck you, Y/N. Enjoy your pity party.'' Lando turned and walked away, joining his friends who were waiting in the lobby.
She watched him go, her chest heaving with a mix of anger and heartbreak. She could feel the pulse of her racing heart, the adrenaline from their argument making her feel jittery and unsteady.
A lump formed in her throat as she replayed the last few minutes in her mind. She cringed internally at the words she had fired at Lando, while also trying to ignore the sting from his own harsh words. She wondered how they would be able to come back from this. They had never been in a situation like this before, and she knew that she would never want to be in this situation again.
The young woman knew that she had let her emotions get the best of her. She had always prided herself on being fair and understanding, but now she felt ashamed of herself.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of another door opening. George peeked out, concern etched on his face. ''Y/N, you okay?''
She shook her head, not wanting to deal with anyone else. ''Mind your business, Russell.'' She retreated back into her room, not before slamming the door behind her.
As she leaned against the closed door, the weight of the evening pressed down on her. The room felt too small, her emotions too big. She slid down to the floor, pulling her knees to her chest, and let the tears she had been holding back finally fall.
Even when she finally got up, even when she tucked herself in again for the final time, and even when she tossed and turned the entire night, the same question lingered in her mind.
Are they still friends?
The question haunted her, gnawing at her thoughts every time she closed her eyes. She replayed the argument over and over, dissecting every word, every expression. The hurt in his eyes, the anger in his voice- it all felt so raw and irreversible.
As the hours dragged on, sleep remained elusive. The darkness of the room mirrored the uncertainty in her heart. She knew they both needed time to cool off, to reflect, but the thought of facing Lando again filled her with dread.
The first light of dawn began to seep through the curtains, and she felt no more at ease than she had the night before.
Are they still friends?
story ideas are always welcome, but remember that it can take a while for me to get to it! :)
I’m sorry Ik request are closed but o really need a part 2 of Lando and Oscar
Summary: Lando x female!Australian!McLaren marketing unit worker!reader x childhood best friend!Oscar - The drama ensues. Two Formula 1 drivers who just so happen to race for McLaren also just so happen to have fallen for you. Picks up straight after where part 1 left off. Takes place from Monaco GP 2024 to Spanish GP 2024. Short time frame, but a lot happens.
Warnings: mention of vomiting, crying, "I'll kill you" joke, swearing, very slight innuendo, if I missed anything let me know
Requested?: Yes, by this anon, everyone who answered in the poll in a way, and by @gracielukey
Author's Note: Fret not, I will be writing a part 3!
“Wait, Y/n, one second-” you hear behind you as a hand wraps itself around your arm. You look back to see Oscar Piastri beaming at you with a smile worth a ton of gold on his face. He’s out of his race suit and now back in regular street clothes: a black t-shirt, blue jeans, and an expensive black watch on his wrist. “I still haven’t given you your birthday gift yet.”
Oh, yeah, that’s right.
Earlier, when both McLaren boys had snatched each of your hands, pulling you in separate directions, both thoroughly excited to show you whatever gift they’ve gotten for you for your birthday, which just so happens to be today, the Monaco Grand Prix, you had shook them both off and waved them on to go do their PR duties.
For once in your life, as someone who is in marketing in McLaren, you got to do a fraction of your actual job concerning the two drivers, and not play the part of both their dramatic love interest.
Yet here you are again, looking back at a handsome Australian boy with earnest brown eyes, waiting for you to come with him so you can see your present.
You sigh, smiling. “Alright, Oscar. Show me this present of mine.”
He leads you to his driver’s room, where he holds the door for you to follow him in, and gently shuts it.
You have a jolting memory of the last time you were led into a driver’s room and the door was shut behind you, and the driver was saying he had something for you. It had been Lando’s driver’s room in Miami, after he won the race, and, well, you’ll never forget what the gift he had for you had been.
Lando’s kiss.
Though it didn’t really change anything at all, it seemed to change absolutely everything.
And now, just standing here, watching Oscar rummage around in his piles and bags of contained mess, you can’t help yourself from blushing as the memory floods back to you.
Oscar snaps you out of your dreams, though, when he straightens, holding up a small box that fits in his palm and a white envelope, and says, “Here… Don’t know if it’s your type of thing, but…”
“Jewelry?” you raise your eyebrows, eyeing the box.
He nods. “I don’t see you wearing jewelry a whole ton, but I thought you might really like this, regardless.”
You smile. “Usually I save it for special occasions, but I like wearing jewelry. Now, let’s see this card here…” He hands it to you, and you open it up. Oscar watches you intently as you begin reading his not-too-messy, not-too-neat handwriting.
Dear Y/n,
I just want to take this opportunity to say how much I appreciate you. You, as a person. Everything about you, I love. Your teasing, your jokes, your playfulness. Your hard work and dedication. You’re so understanding and kind. I love how gentle you are, yet also tough. You’re the perfect balance, for me and for anyone. You have the softest, most beautiful, caring heart, but a tough skin, too, and you can hold your own. You’re so strong and capable, too. I admire you in so many ways.
I love being with you. Time spent with you is my favorite time. Whether we’re just laying or sitting somewhere together, basking in each other’s silence and simply company, or going out somewhere, exploring someplace, and experiencing something together. I love it. I adore it. I love being with you.
Sometimes, I think about when we were little kids. I think about how we’d sit together and whine about how hard it is to be an older sibling, or how this or that rule by our parents was stupid. I remember playing with you, exploring. Even then, Y/n, we were forming a bond, and I think it’s beautiful. I hope we stay like this forever. Together.
I just want to be with you.
I remember as I got older and I moved, I missed you so much. So, so much. We stayed in touch, but you don’t know how much was missing without you always by my side. It’s like in a way you complete me.
I’m so glad that fate and time and whatever else all worked together that today, right now, you can be with me, on your twenty-third birthday. Twenty-three years, Y/n, I’ve known you. You’ve been my best friend. Somehow, we always keep running into each other. Like as if time and space and the universe knows we’re meant to be with each other, for each other, and it won’t let us be separated for too long. Like me and you have a magnet.
I love it, Y/n, and I hope you do, too.
I also love how beautiful you are. Your stunning eyes when they look straight into mine. The way you look over your shoulder and wink teasingly. The way your eyebrows scrunch together when you’re working hard or trying to figure something out. The way you flip your hair, the way you walk, the way you talk, the way you laugh, and the way your touch feels; I love every single little ‘way’ about you. You are it, everything I want. I don’t know what you feel, but I know that for years, I knew it.
I knew I’m supposed to be with you.
If you don’t think so, that’s okay. But just know what I know. Because for years I was terrified to say it, but now, I know.
I know this, Y/n:
I love you. I always have, and I always will.
Yours truly, Oscar Jack Piastri 5/26/24
As you read the last words, you feel a lump forming in your throat as you softly gasp, “Oscar…”
“I’m sorry if it’s a bit over the top,” he says right away with a slightly nervous chuckle. “I don’t mean to seem sappy. I should have just left it at ‘happy birthday’...”
“No, no-”
“I just had a lot to say, I guess,” Oscar mutters, glancing down. “A lot to say, to make up for the years of staying silent.”
“Oh, Oscar, stop!” you laugh, your voice cracking as you suddenly throw your arms around him in a tight embrace. You feel your eyes begin to water as you squeeze them shut tightly and bury your head in his shoulder, murmuring, “This is the sweetest thing I’ve ever read, Osc… You’re going to make me cry…”
As you hug him, it’s like a weight is lifted off his shoulders. He wraps his arms around you back, his hand slowly, absently beginning to rub your back.
You sniff a bit, whispering close to his ear, “That’s just about the most beautiful thing I’ve read… Oscar, I- I, um… I-” love you, too, your brain screams, begging your lips to form the words. You love him, Y/n. You know you do. Just say the words. Just say them.
But you finish with, “I- Thank you so much, Oscar. Thank you.”
He nods, resting his cheek on your head for a few seconds, before murmuring, “Why don’t you open the gift now?”
You nod, slowly leaning away. You mop up your eyes with your hands before taking the box. You slowly open it and gasp when you see a sparkling green gemstone inside, attached to a golden chain. “Oscar…” you breathe. “It’s beautiful…” You slowly begin taking it out of the box.
“Emerald, for May, on a gold necklace chain.”
You stop taking it out of the box to freeze and look up in surprise, eyes wide. “Real emerald? Real gold?!”
“Yes,” Oscar chuckles. “Yes, Y/n. It’s a real emerald on a real gold chain.”
Your jaw drops as you blubber, “Oscar… Oh my God, Oscar… you didn’t have to…”
“I think you’ve forgotten I can afford it. And I would spend any amount of money, if it was for you. But do you like it?”
“What do you mean?!” you exclaim. “What sort of question is that? Of course I like it! I love it!”
At that, the young McLaren driver immediately beams. “Here- want me to put it on you?” You nod vigorously, so Oscar takes the necklace gently from your hands and reaches around your neck to clasp it on you. You feel his soft hands briefly brush the skin of your neck, sending a shiver down your spine, before he takes them away and leans back to view you. “It looks lovely on you. Compliments your features.”
“You really think so?”
He grins with a soft chuckle. “Y/n, I know so.”
Once you’re done sitting with Oscar for a bit after that, just being with him, you exit his driver’s room into the hallway with a tired but contented sigh. You tuck Oscar’s note and the box the necklace came in into your pants pocket, about to get going and continue on with your life, when, once again, you’re interrupted.
You suddenly feel two strong arms wrapping around you from behind as the scent of Lando’s cologne fills your nostrils. He leans close to your ear, rocking you a bit, before murmuring in a gentle, concerned voice, “Hey, Y/n… How are you?”
You smile softly, feeling his warmth against your back. “I’m alright,” you sigh, your head still slightly in the clouds about Oscar’s note and gift.
Lando unwraps his arms from around you and gently guides you by your shoulders to turn around and face him. “What were you doing, hm?” he suddenly asks softly.
“What do you mean?” you ask, eyebrows furrowing.
“In Oscar’s driver’s room. I saw you leave.” His tone is in no way accusatory. Just genuinely concerned.
“Nothing,” you frown, licking your lips. “Why do you care?”
He crosses his arms, the concern mostly falling off his face now as he says simply, reaching up to drag his thumb under your eye, “Because of this.” He holds up his thumb to show the chalky smeared mascara on it. “And because of the redness around your eyes. Are you okay?” The concern comes flooding back as he lifts his other hand to gently touch your cheek. “Did something happen? Did Oscar do something? Y/n, you know you can tell me. You know you can trust me.”
But you can’t help yourself but chuckle. In a way, it’s sweet how caring and worried Lando is acting, looking out for you like that. But also kind of funny that Lando thinks Oscar Piastri even has the capacity to do you any harm, at least not on purpose. So you say, “No, no, Lando! Don’t worry! I’m not upset! Those were happy tears!”
Lando doesn’t look much less concerned, though. “What made you so happy?” he asks carefully.
You sigh, figuring there’s no reason to not tell Lando, at least partially the truth. “Oscar just gave me a super sweet birthday gift is all.”
“Oh,” Lando nods slowly. “What was it?”
You smile and point at the necklace hanging around your neck, resting perfectly in the middle of your chest. “This…”
“Oh,” Lando says again, this time more impressed, looking down at it. “That… It looks beautiful on you.”
You smile wider. “Thanks.”
But then the British man swallows. “I know you’re probably tired and wanting to get back to your hotel room, but I have a gift for you, too.”
“Just make sure it’s not a kiss this time,” you softly tease. “I don’t think my heart can take it right now.”
“No, no, of course not. I actually bought you something for your birthday!” the Brit chuckles, his hand naturally falling to the small of your back as he leads you to his driver’s room. He keeps the door hanging open, though, and you’re sure that’s intentional, to give you more of a sense of reassurance. You appreciate it. “Alright!” he says, clapping his hands together. “Close your eyes and hold out your hands.” You shrug and obey, doing so. You feel him place some light, small item in your hand, before he says, “Alright! Open!”
You chuckle as you open your eyes, teasing, “What was the point of having me close my eyes?”
“So it was a surprise! Now look at what I got you, for God’s sake, Y/n!” he rolls his eyes jokingly.
You look down at the little card in your hand, shaped like a credit card. You bring it to your face and study it, until your eyes widen when you recognize what it is. “Lando, is this…?”
He grins broader as he sees the sparkle in your eyes. “Yeah, yeah. It is.”
“You didn’t have to!” you laugh. A gift card for a free weekend to a luxury spa. You’ve often told Lando how nice it’d be to have a spa day, just relaxing and letting the weight off your shoulders.
But you weren’t expecting it as a birthday gift! And you definitely weren't expecting some expensive luxurious place, and for a whole weekend!
“And,” he smiles, reaching in his pocket to pull out a second, identical card which he places in your hand, too, “A second one, because I figured it’d be no fun alone, so you could bring one of your girl friends or something.”
You throw your arms around Lando and peck his cheek, which is a lot more of an easy thing to do with Lando than it is with Oscar. Oscar, you’re more emotionally connected with. But physically and romantically, you’re a lot more connected to Lando. Lando giggles as you exclaim, “How’d you even think to do this?”
He shrugs. “You talk about it. And you work constantly, so damn hard, you deserve a break. You don’t get enough credit for all you do. Take a weekend to just relax and enjoy, hm?”
You smile and shut your eyes, nuzzling your face into his neck, loving the sentiment, loving the gift, and loving Lando’s attitude in recognizing how hard you do work.
It feels so good to simply be appreciated.
The day after the Monaco Grand Prix, that Monday, Oscar texts you, asking you if you'd like the meet up before you have to go back to the U.K.
You're leaving tomorrow, so it had to be a yes.
Now you sit next to Oscar in his car, in the parking lot, as you buckle your seat belt and Oscar absently drums his fingers on the steering wheel.
Finally you break the silence with, "So, what's the plan, Stan?"
"Um..." Oscar begins, and just by one quick glance, you can see the deep thought written across his face as he looks forward out the windshield.
And you're right. The Aussie's thoughts are raging, about only one thing. And that thing, of course, being you.
He bites his lip, feeling a pang of slight desperation, but mostly just indescision.
He thought the nice note he wrote you for your birthday would've... given more of a reaction. Or maybe the necklace would've pulled at your heartstrings a little more. Just... Just a hug felt wrong to Oscar.
Why doesn't she love me back?
I whisper of a thought in his mind responds, Maybe it's got to do with Lando. Maybe she just simply doesn't love you because she loves Lando more.
He swallows a lump in his throat, pushing that thought out of his mind with, No, Oscar. She said she's got nothing more with Lando than she's got with you. You need to trust her. You know you love her. Therefore, trust her.
Of course, naturally, Oscar has no idea that he really shouldn't trust you.
Prompted by his thoughts, Oscar suddenly asks you, ignoring your own question, "Did Lando get you anything for your birthday? Just asking, because, you know, he had said he had something...?"
"Oh, yeah!" you exclaim. Oscar can't help but recognize the way your face lights up at the mention of merely Lando's name. You continue, "He got me a free weekend to a spa for two people!"
"Oh. You're going to a spa with him?" Oscar says slightly absently.
You laugh. "No, he suggested probably one of my friends. Lando would've told me if he wanted to go."
"Ah, right. Of course."
"Oscar?" you suddenly say, concerned, leaning closer. You place your hand on top of Oscar's drumming fingers on the wheel, forcing the nervous movement to stop. "Is something wrong?"
"Hmmm..." he sighs. Oscar, you've just got to make a move. A real move. Lando is loud, impulsive, fun. He wouldn't second guess.
Maybe you should take a hint from Lando.
Maybe she just needs to see, feel, experience me.
That doesn't sound right.
That doesn't sound like me.
Oscar closes his eyes, leaning back, entwining his fingers around your hand.
I'm not Lando Norris. So is that it?
That's it. I'm just not Lando Norris.
But despite the proclamation in his head, he snaps himself out of it. "Just... thinking back on the race. Sorry."
"Are you sure you're okay, Osc?" you lean in, more concerned.
It's like Oscar can feel his heart being squeezed, warmed. And another, louder, sudden thought enters his mind:
You won't let her go, Oscar, and you know that. You'll fight for her. You'll change for her.
You'll never be Lando Norris, but maybe you've just got to quit overthinking and start acting.
"Alright!" he says, a quite sudden smile appearing on his face as he squeezes your hand. "Yeah, I'm sure." He smiles, bringing your hand to his mouth to gently kiss the back of it.
He doesn't really see the blush on your cheeks when he does that.
He lets go of your hand and says, "Alrighty, let's go. I've got somewhere to bring you."
When you get to the destination, you laugh. "Oscar, it's just a park! You made it seem like you had this big thing planned."
"Oh," he smiles a bit. "Well, sorry. Do you have something against parks?"
"No- I'm just saying-"
"Yes, sure, whatever." He suddenly snatches your hand as he says, "Let's just go for a nice walk."
It's not common for Oscar to just take your hand like that, so confidently. Lando? Sure, all the time. But not really Oscar...
But you kind of like it.
As you walk, you just chat, until you're sure you've walked the entirety of Monaco before Oscar finally gestures to a lone bench in a solitary area, and you sit down together, hands still latched.
But you let go of his, saying with a chuckle, "I just... You know, my hands are sweaty."
"Oh, sure, of course. Mine probably are, too," he responds, running a hand through his hair.
You watch him intently as he does this, and reply a few seconds too late, "Oh, no, no, they're not! I like your hands."
And you immediately blush at the fact you actually just told Oscar Piastri that.
But he looks over with that little crooked teasing smile of his and says, "Do you?"
You grin back and shrug. "Hell yeah."
"Hm. I'll keep that in mind, then."
That makes your mind immediately wander to what he could mean, and you feel bad for what you immediately think of.
Regardless, your face flushes.
And then Oscar makes the decision that he's wanted to make for months, and probably years. His twinkling eye meets yours as he says, "You like my hands? Well I like your lips."
Your breath catches and butterflies well up in your stomach as Oscar leans in closer. His hand gently cups your chin as he looks you straight in your eyes, his softening by the second.
In the exact moment that he should just lean in and kiss you, he hesitates and asks, "Is it okay if I-"
"Oscar! Yes!" you say without thinking.
Yeah, yeah. There you go again. Not thinking again, in the exact moments that you should think about it the most.
Oscar leans in, his head tilting to the side slightly as his soft lips meet yours. Your head spins as he strokes your cheek.
It's not too long and not too short. He pulls away, gazing warmly into your eyes.
There was something different about Oscar's kiss. Lando kissed you and kept kissing you, as if he couldn't get enough. Oscar stopped as soon as he knew it was the perfect time for both of you to pull away. Lando's kiss was hungry, Oscar's wasn't really. He enjoyed it, but...
You don't know.
Oscar's more romantic.
You feel simply by the way he looks at you...
You feel like a jewel. You feel beautiful.
Physically, Lando's kiss was probably better. But emotionally, Oscar's...?
You never knew Oscar could be this romantic. But, to be honest with yourself, Lando's kiss was hotter. Sexier.
God, you loved both.
You groan, falling into Oscar, throwing your arms around him.
Y/n! Y/n! You're comparing the kissing styles of the two guys you kissed without the other knowing!
They both think you're theirs!
"Are you okay?" Oscar immediately asks. "Listen, I'm sorry- Oh, God, listen-"
"No! Oscar, thank you..." you blurt shakily, leaning back to look at him.
"Uh... you're welcome..." He falters, before saying, "So... does this mean you want to be my girlfriend?"
Oh, God.
"Oh, uh, I don't think I'm ready for that- uh-" you begin nervously.
"Right," comes the brown eyed boy's curt response.
Oscar Piastri's vague clean scent fills your nostrils. Or perhaps it's the clean hotel sheets you lay in next to him. His soft touch massages your hand as you hum a song.
You know all the words, but you forgot the tune.
In another reality, he would kiss you and hold you and call you his. You would say without a fragment of a doubt that you are his girlfriend.
Like an arrow to your heart, his voice asks you once more: "Does this mean you want to be my girlfriend?"
You're leaning against his bare chest, listening to his heartbeat, British voice speaking but saying nothing, and you begin, "Oh, uh, I-"
You wake up with a start, gasping. The last thing you remember of your dream was laying with Lando, about to tell him you love him.
What the hell, Y/n?
“What’s up?” you ask as you answer your vibrating cellphone.
Lando Norris on the other end responds, “Nothing much. What’s up with you.”
“Dunno. Just packing up to get ready to be leaving Monaco. But why’d you call?”
“Hey, whoa, whoa,” Lando suddenly says. “Why’re you leaving Monaco so early? Come on, now!”
You sigh with a little smile, rolling your eyes as you throw another shirt in your suitcase. “Lando, this country is uber expensive. There’s no way I’m staying here any longer than I have to. The hotel price is ridiculous, and the rest of the team is leaving, anyway.”
Lando tsks before saying, “Come on, now. You won’t have to pay for a hotel room for extra days, you know. You can stay at my place, duh.”
Your eyebrows shoot up. “Oh, Lando. You really want me to stay in Monaco.”
“Of course I do. But you know I’d let you stay at my place anytime.”
“Mmmhm. I know…”
“So? What do you say?” Lando asks.
You hesitate, before saying, "Lan, I already told the team I'd be leaving on the plane with them..."
“For God’s sake, Y/n, then tell them you’re not, check out of that damn hotel room, and c’mere!”
“Come where?!” you ask in slight exasperation.
“Where do you think? My flat!”
“Alright, alright, I’ll do that, jeez. Text me your address. But God, why are you getting so worked up about this?”
There’s more silence before the Monaco resident says softer, “I just really want to see you, is all.”
You raise your eyebrows and say softer as you zip up your suitcase. “That’s it?”
“Yeah,” he snorts. “Not good enough for you, princess?” he teases.
“No,” you breathe, a slight smile forming on your face as warmth spreads across it. “No, that’s perfectly, one hundred percent, all the way, good enough for me.”
“Good.” You can hear the grin in Lando’s voice. “Then I’ll see you in a bit, you beauty.”
When you arrive at his flat and he opens the door, Lando wraps his arms around you, patting your back, before letting you go. “Hey, wanna come to the living room?”
“Sure,” you nod, taking in the rooms you go through as he leads you to the living space. You’ve never been in Lando’s flat before, but you have to say, it is thoroughly impressive. Soon, you’re in the living room, and the two of you plop down on the couch together. You sink into it and lean back, saying, “This is comfy.”
Lando just takes your hand and says, “Thanks.”
But you look up at him with a soft teasing smile. “So, are you going to tell me why on earth you suddenly got so clingy? You’re acting like we haven’t seen each other in three years! Just as a reminder, it was just two days ago.”
But Lando smirks, shrugging, and says teasingly, “Maybe I’m just a little obsessed…?”
“Obsessed?” you smile wider, leaning your head onto his shoulder. “Oh, don’t flatter me.”
“Aw, why not? You’re cute when you’re blushing…”
“Lando, stop,” you snort, then add, “We’re supposed to be friends. I don’t think friends say this kind of shit to each other.”
“I like the way you say, ‘we’re supposed to be,’” the race car driver begins.
“Lando! We are friends, and that’s all we’ll ever be!” you respond firmer, but deep down, you have your doubts. Your extreme doubts. Because being with Lando, it never feels like a friendship anymore, and you both know everyday you get closer and closer to finally just admitting you’re dating.
And the only reason why you haven’t yet is because of the certain someone in the way. Oscar Piastri, the sweet Australian boy from your childhood and teenage dreams.
Who kissed you like he meant it yesterday at around this time.
You feel your stomach lurch at the thought.
How can I so shamelessly act like this with Lando, when I know twenty-four hours ago I kissed Oscar back?
You jump when Lando says, almost as if he could hear your thoughts, “Is something wrong?"
You look up in slight surprise, eyes wide. “Uh- of course not. Why do you ask?"
But Lando's frown deepens. "Y/n, stop that. You know I know you're lying. I can see it on your face when something is bothering you."
You bite your lip. "Nothing is."
Lando heaves a big sigh before suddenly pulling you into his lap.
You flinch and lean away in extreme embarrassment, "Lando, what-"
"Just let me hug you, hm? You always say you're fine when you're not and I just want to help you. Let me at least hug you."
You sigh deeply and slowly let yourself lean into him. He strokes your hairline gently, and begins rambling. Lando Rambling, but in a gentle whisper.
You swallow back the huge lump in your throat, and despite your squeezed shut eyes and your raging mind, it's nice.
Until Lando is gently shaking you, and your eyes flutter open as you realize you had fallen into a calm, dreamless sleep against him. You feel his soft, nearly heavenly chuckle vibrating in your ear before you lean your head off his chest slowly. "Rise and shine, princess. You went right to sleep."
You yawn. "Shit, sorry about that..."
But Lando beams. "It's okay. It was cute. And do you feel a bit better now?"
You sigh and nod. "Yeah. I do, actually."
"Good," he grins, eyes twinkling, and leans in to give you a kiss on your cheek. "You probably just needed a nice big long nap."
You sigh.
If only it was as simple as that, Lando.
When I'm with Oscar, he seems like the obvious choice. But then I'm with Lando and he's so sweet and caring and loving and understanding and lighthearted and fun and handsome and perfect and-
And then he seems like the obvious choice.
Oh, Oscar. I couldn't stand to break your heart of gold, though.
And suddenly you freeze as Lando seems to read your mind for a second time, his voice saying softly near your ear, "Is it okay if I call Oscar?"
You snap your head back to meet Lando's eyes. "What reason have you got to call Oscar...?"
“So he can come over.”
You stare at him like he’s the craziest man alive. “Come again?”
“So he can come over and join us, Y/n. But you heard me the first time.”
“What’s your problem?” you asked quite bluntly.
“What’s yours?”
You stare at Lando, completely at a loss for words. Feeling slightly called out, to be honest. You breath deeply, before, with much effort, finally forming the sentence under Lando’s expectant gaze, “Lando, you know that Oscar thinks we’re dating. Even though we’re obviously not. If Oscar shows up… Lando, there’s too much drama you don’t know about. That wouldn’t-”
Lando raises his eyebrows, unimpressed, and says, “I know more than you think I do.”
You swallow, anxiously licking your lips. “Why do you want Osc over?”
“I’ve got some things to talk about with you. And him. With the two of you.”
Your face scrunches up as you ask hopefully, “About work?”
“Nope,” Lando says sternly as he opens his phone, scrolling his contacts, looking for Oscar’s.
You’re starting to get nervous. Real nervous. “Lando, please,” you begin, your voice laced with a certain amount of fear as you take the man’s hand. “Lando, what are you trying to do? Why? Lando, I… I’m not ready… Can you talk to me first?”
Lando looks up at you. “You clearly know what I’m doing, then, otherwise you wouldn’t be so panicked.”
“Of course I do…” you breathe. How the hell did it come to this?
Why did I think Lando was stupider than this? To not see the writing on the wall? To not see what’s clear as day?
Lando leans in closer, wrapping both his hands around yours. He stares you straight in your eyes. Everything about his actions is gentle, but his voice is painfully stern as he begins nearly whispering, “Y/n. I’m sick of this, and Oscar is, too. And you’ve had enough of this, too, whether you think you have or you haven't. I understand to a certain degree what’s been going on, but I don’t think Oscar has allowed himself to. We need to, the three of us, talk this over and figure this out. Pretending isn’t going to do you any good any longer, Y/n. And I think me and Oscar can both agree on the fact that we just want the best for you, yeah? So I know this is hard, but if you wait any longer, the situation will just get worse and worse. And now I’ve figured you out, so let’s just deal with this together, the three of us, and be honest. Okay?”
You hesitate as your eyes start to water.
You feel like you want to throw up.
I never wanted this to happen. I never wanted it to come to this. I just wanted it to work itself out on it’s own. I didn’t want Lando or Oscar to know. I wanted to figure it out alone.
“Lando,” you sniff, your voice cracking. Lando leans over to one of the end tables to grab a tissue, which he uses to wipe a tear rolling down your cheek. As you continue to cry, he hands the tissue to you and begins holding your hand as you use the other to rest your heavy head against it.
You sit there together for a while as you just cry, working through the emotions of the last months. Once you’re finally done, Lando says gently, “It might not get any easier, but please, Y/n. If you’re honest with me and Oscar, I hope you know that we’ll always be ready to help you and be there for you.”
“I know that…” you sniff. “It’s just… I don’t want to lose either of you, Lando. I can’t stand to imagine losing either of you.”
Lando nods slowly, and murmurs, “I can’t speak for Oscar, but just so you know, whatever happens, no matter what, you’ll always be my friend. And I’ll always be there for you. M’kay?”
You nod slowly, wiping your eyes one last time, those words providing just enough comfort for the time being.
“Alright,” Lando says, gently patting your hand. “Can I call Oscar? I’m sure I’ll be able to convince him to come over.”
“Yeah,” you smile weakly. “Unless he’s still sleeping.”
Lando nods and grins as he picks up his phone again to call Oscar Piastri.
When Lando goes to open the door, you follow close behind him, fiddling with your fingers anxiously. When he does open it, a surprised Oscar immediately sees you behind him and exclaims your name in shock. "Why are you here?"
"I invited her, too," Lando replies confidently, as if this is all completely normal, looking Oscar straight in his sweet brown eyes.
"Ah," Oscar nods slowly. "I can see that." He smiles awkwardly at you as Lando brings him in. He mostly just looks thoroughly confused, but doesn't take his eyes off you for a second.
Soon, you're all seated around Lando's dining room table, you and Oscar on one side, facing a lone Lando on the other side, feeling like you're about to be interrogated.
While Lando doesn't ask, 'Where were you at the time of the murder?' he does say, "I think we've all got some thing to be honest about. Oscar, I mentioned it on the phone to you, but I think all three of us have got some... stuff to discuss."
Neither you or Oscar say anything. You're too nervous to speak, and Oscar's too confused.
Lando sighs, seeing neither you or Oscar have nothing much to say, and says, "Alright, then." He slaps his palms down on the table. "Oscar, you and Y/n... You'd like to date her, yeah?"
Immediately Oscar's eyes widen, and his hand tightens around his cellphone in his hand as his pale cheeks redden. "I- What sort of-"
"Do you?"
"Yeah," Oscar admits carefully, but sort of bluntly.
"I'd like to date Y/n, too."
Oscar stares at Lando. His grip on his phone tightens slightly, but that's the only sign of a reaction his body shows as he says softer, "Well, of course."
Lando's gaze averts to you.
You sigh. The awkwardness in the air is making it stuffy and hard to breathe. The tension in the room is thick enough to cut.
"Y/n?" Lando prompts.
Your words get caught in your throat, and instead comes out a weak cough.
Apparently Oscar takes it as a sob, because immediately his hand is on your back, and he's leaning close, saying softly, "Y/n. Are you okay?"
As you bury your face in your hands and nod, you don't catch the dirty look Oscar throws Lando, and Lando's effort to ignore it. Once you've caught your breath, you barely get out, "I love you both."
Oscar's hand slips off your back as Lando reaches across the table to take your hand in his.
"I- you-" Oscar begins, before his eyes turn on Lando. "You knew about this, Lando? You knew?" You can feel the stress and, frankly, anger, radiating off of him as Oscar says, turning to you, "Y/n, I told you if you loved Lando, you could let me go. I would've taken it..." He runs a hand through his hair. "I would've. Y/n, I swear I would've. Why'd you have to play with my heartstrings? Why'd you do that, Y/n? Why'd you do that to m-"
"Oscar, stop!" Lando suddenly snaps, standing up. "Don't you see the state she's in? This is harder for her than it is for you!"
"Just stop fighting," you barely whisper.
Neither men hear you as Lando grabs Oscar's wrist and tells you sternly, "Y/n, you just stay here. I'm gonna go talk with Oscar alone, if that's fine."
But Lando doesn't wait for your input before he tugs Oscar out of the room and slams the door behind him. You suppose it wouldn't matter much anyway. It's not like you would have any idea what to say, anyway, if you'd have been given the chance.
You stare ahead in a strange mixture of regret and dread. Fear of past decisions and fear of future decisions, too.
After the door slams, unbeknownst to you, Lando immediately shoves Oscar against the wall and snaps, "What the hell, man?"
A long breath exits Oscar's lungs as he stares back into Lando's hazel eyes. "What?" he sighs.
"Don't you see she's in distress? Give the girl a break-"
"I need to give her a break? Lando, I kissed her. Do you think I would've fucking done that if I knew she was seeing you? We can both say it was all friendships all along, but we also both know this's bullshit." Oscar gulps before muttering, "She's a fucking cheater."
"No, she's not!" Lando suddenly defends. "You just don't understand."
"Yeah! Clearly I don't," Oscar says gruffly.
"So are you going to let me explain what I think went on?"
"Why don't we hear it straight from her? You could very well be biased."
"Do you think she wants to say it? Oscar," Lando sighs. "Won't you just listen to me?"
Lando watches as the Australian bites his lip, before saying, "Have you kissed?"
"Once."
"Same..." Oscar hesitates once more before asking, "So it's just the 'friend' thing? She's in love with both of us so she's been convincing herself she can stay both our friends forever."
"Well... right. And neither of us knew that was going on, and... Yeah, you know."
"How'd you find out?"
"It became too obvious. But Oscar, you've had your suspicions before the beginning."
Oscar sighs, staring down. "Right. So. She denied it because she loved us both."
"That's what I'm reckoning."
"What did she think she'd accomplish? Why did she think letting that happen would do any good? We both thought she was single. And technically, she was, but not really, because, we- you- I- you- you know..." Oscar trails off before dragging his hand across his face and leaving it over his eyes. "Oh, God."
"It's complicated," Lando nearly whispers.
"You... You can say that again..." Oscar breathes, his voice cracking as his other hand goes to his face, his pointer and middle finger pressing hard into his temple.
"Oscar?" Lando suddenly asks, his hand resting on the younger man's shoulder. "Are you okay?"
"Shit... I don't know..."
"Oscar, are you-"
"No- I mean, I am, but-"
Oscar is interrupted by Lando's arms suddenly wrapping around him in a hug and Lando murmuring, "Now both of you are crying?"
Oscar, despite himself, finds his face falling into Lando's shoulder as he begins, his voice just slightly hoarse, "I'm not crying, by the way. It's just... Lando, I've been in love with her for years; I swear, probably a decade by now. And I've known her literally my whole life. A part of me just always expected she'd always be there and I'd always just... that I'd always have enough time to wake up one morning and ask her out. I should have done it quite literally years ago. But I didn't and that's why we're here now, me feeling as if I have more of a right to her love, though really, I'm not worthy of her at all." Oscar lets out a shakily breath before adding, "I regret it so, so much, Lando."
Lando's arms around him tighten. "I'm so sorry."
"You don't have anything to apologize for."
"Osc, I just want her to be happy. But I know her dating me isn't the solution. Because she'd be devastated to date me but not you, and vise versa. She's head over heels for us both."
Oscar gulps. "Well, then what the hell do you suggest?" He leans away from Lando, wiping at his eyes with his thumb.
"Oh, Oscar," Lando sighs deeply. "I don't fucking know."
After that, the two stand in silent contemplation, worrying, pondering. Feeling. Emotion. Passion. Pain.
Before Lando finally says carefully, as if walking on eggshells, "...What if we both dated her...? Just kept doing what we've been doing, but the other one knows about it, so she doesn't have to feel guilty about it, but we both still... you know, get to date her?"
Oscar bites his lip. "Couldn't that get complicated?"
"Of course it could..." Lando trails off, before picking up more positively, "But sometimes the easier way isn't the right way, Oscar. We both know it'd make her happier to date us both. And we both know we'd both be happier if we could date her, yeah?"
Oscar's silent, considering, his eyes slightly glazed over, despite the battle that's going on inside his mind.
"Osc...? Osc, please, mate. I think it's the best shot we've got. It'd mean the world to me-"
"Yeah," Oscar suddenly interrupts with a nod, leaning off the hallway's wall. "Yeah, I get what you're saying. We can try that Lando," he says curtly, almost hollowly as he suddenly reaches for the door handle back to the dining room where you sit.
But right before his hand meets the knob, Lando snatches it away in his own, pulling Oscar to face him again.
Oscar can't help but feel awkward at how close his face is to the other Formula 1 driver's, and averts his eyes to the floor because of this.
But Lando responds simply, "Oscar, look at me. In my eyes."
Oscar sighs and looks up, meeting the strong eyes of Lando Norris. "What?" he barely whispers.
"Thank you so much, okay?" Lando murmurs, squeezing Oscar's hand.
To Oscar, everything seems wrong. Why is he standing with his teammate, his rival, this close, holding hands, with such intense eye contact? This should be just him and you. Lando shouldn't be a part of this.
How was he so stupid to let Lando ruin it all?
Oscar, just try to trust Lando? Maybe he's right? You can conform for now, but don't conform with malice. Only allow yourself to feel anger towards Lando after it all falls apart because of him.
"'Kay," Oscar mutters back.
"And, listen, Oscar. I hope you know you can trust me. I care about you, too. So much. I like you so much. So, please. Just be real with me. M'kay?"
"Of course... Can we go back and see Y/n now?" Oscar mumbles, feeling slightly uncomfortable at Lando's extreme sincerity.
Alright, maybe more than just slightly uncomfortable.
"Sure," Lando nods, and the two men come walking back in.
They sit down, and once they've finished explaining to you their idea, you ask, "So, you're saying we all date? The three of us, together?"
"Yeah," Lando responds with a smile at the same time as Oscar responding, "Well, sort of-"
Both your pairs of eyes turn to Oscar. He swallows and adds, "I mean, yeah. Of course. Just sounds weird to me, for three people to be dating, but it's just because I'm not used to it, you know? It's good. It's fine."
"Oscar, are you sure you're okay with that idea?" you venture.
But there's no way Oscar's going to say anything but a convincing, "Of course!" after the way he saw your eyes immediately light up in hope when Lando explained his idea of the three of you dating.
So you nod, taking that answer, but just ask one more tentative question, "So, you two... you're okay with... you.. you know..."
Before Oscar's brain can even completely comprehend what you're asking, Lando throws his arm around Oscar's shoulders and exclaims, "Of course, Y/n! Me and Osc get on great! Plus, he's not so bad himself-"
And in that moment, you witness Lando lean into kiss Oscar's cheek just as Oscar turns to look at Lando to speak and-
Lando ends up pecking Oscar on his lips.
Oscar's eyes practically pop out of his head, and Lando, to be honest, looks somewhat surprised himself. But you're sure Oscar's brains are about to begin running out his bright red ears as his whole face goes fire hydrant red. "Oh..." he just manages, his hand dragging over his lip.
Lando laughs slightly awkwardly, deciding to pretend he meant to do that. He gives the other driver a pat on his shoulder before saying, "You know, Y/n, you know how flustered Oscar can get with you? Imagine how bad it could be with me. You know, me being so hot and sexy and-"
You giggle nervously and interrupt, "Yeah, yeah, Lando. I get what you're saying."
As the visit at Lando's flat goes on that day, you and Lando loosen up a fair amount at the whole prospect of the three of you dating, but Oscar doesn't seem to budge. Oscar ends up leaving early, so before you go to bed that night, you stop to bring up your nervous concern to Lando: "Lando, I just don't know if Oscar wants to do this... I mean, he doesn't seem comfortable... I just... I think he really doesn't like the idea of dating another guy... I mean, maybe he's- you know, he's not- He doesn't have those feelings for men-"
"Oh, gosh, Y/n, don't worry about that," Lando reassures you and himself, quite honestly. "He'll come around. Oscar just needs time." He adds with a tease, "I mean, who can resist me?"
"You're suggesting you're so hot you can turn straight men gay?" you ask, completely unimpressed, crossing your arms.
"No, no! Trust me, Y/n, Oscar Piastri is not a straight man to even begin with."
"But-"
"Shh. You're probably just tired. Go on, you're eyes are shutting on themselves. Just lean on me."
"But Lando-"
He pecks your lips and murmurs close to your ear, "I've got you here, Y/n. Leave all your worries for tomorrow morning, and until then, I'll deal with the rest."
"Are you sure?"
"Never been more sure," Lando comments, yawning himself as you sigh, resigned, and snuggle into his chest.
You're practically out cold within minutes, which leaves Lando time to sit alone with his thoughts, stroking your hair, worrying and thinking.
What if she's right? What if this just isn't going to work with Oscar?
I thought maybe he'd be more open.
Oh, God. I don't want to hurt either of them, one bit. I love Y/n. I know I do, and I have for so long now.
And Oscar? I'm so fond of him.
Ah, here I go again. Fuck me and my distracted, wandering, boyish heart.
Just like with Carlos. Just like with Daniel.
I don't know I feel it until in one moment, one instance, they smile in a certain way or say a certain joke or do a certain thing in a certain way and-
And suddenly I'm mad in love with yet another person.
Oh, Lando Norris. If only you could date everyone in the world you ever loved.
Then I'd be dating a lot more than just two people. And on the first day of dating two people, it's already a mess.
And it's all my fault.
I guess I'll just have to be the one who fixes it all, then, too.
"Oh, uh, good morning!" you chuckle as you see both Lando's and Oscar's heads turn almost in unison when you enter the room in McLaren HQ. "When did you two arrive in the U.K.?"
"Yesterd-"
"This morning!" Lando beams, throwing his arms around you.
"Oh, alright," you chuckle again. "It's so nice to see both of you..." You smile awkwardly as Lando pulls away and Oscar pats your shoulder when a sudden thought comes into your head.
Is this something the three of us should keep a secret?
Strangely (and stupidly) enough, you forgot to discuss that.
"Hey, uh, it's great you're both here right now. I've got to talk to you about, uhm- some of the media plans we have for you regarding Canada... Let's talk in the hall; don't want to disturb people working in here."
Lando raises his eyebrows as Oscar takes on a perplexed look. Once you're out in the hall together, you lean close and are about to speak when Lando interrupts with a smirk, "So, anyway. What about those... 'media plans' 'regarding Canada'...?"
"Oh, shut it, you!" you grin, realizing how much in just a little over a week away you missed Lando.
Oscar suddenly gently takes your hand by your side and says, "Oh, come on, Lando. Y/n, what did you want to say to us."
And you suddenly realized how much you missed Oscar, too, in only a little over a week.
"Well," you start, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. "About this... relationship... Should we... you know, keep it a secret?"
"I... think so," Oscar says carefully, squeezing your hand. "Imagine the media's response. And the fans: the fans would be unbearable."
Lando crosses his arms and whines, "So you're saying I can't even show my affection for you two? Oscar, we're always on camera."
Did Lando just say you two? you can't help but suddenly wonder.
"Maybe you are, but there's ways of avoiding it," Oscar comments, not seeming to hear.
Hm. Maybe I heard wrong.
Because deep down inside, despite your secret desires, you know that Lando and Oscar just agreed to this for you, and have no specific liking for each other.
And that's the thing that's making you nervous that this whole thing has no chance of working out.
"Boys. I agree with Oscar," you sigh. "Lando, I work in marketing and public image type stuff. If anyone knows about this, it's me. And I agree with Osc. It'll do us no good to make this public. Let's just keep it on the down-low."
"Can we at least make a compromise?" Lando ventures.
"Go on," you sigh.
"We can at least still keep acting like we're mad in love with you," Lando laughs. "Because we've been doing that this whole time. Just no one has to know about the dating. I mean, it'll seem off if that suddenly stops."
You bite your lip but murmur, "Fair enough."
Lando grins and comments, "I gotta meeting now. See you two later," giving each your shoulders a pat.
Once Lando is gone, you turn to Oscar and murmur, letting go of his hand to touch his arm gently "Hey, Oscar. Are you alright?"
Your childhood best friend looks to you, a smile immediately forming on his face. But his eyes remain a bit hollow, a bit sad. "Of course I'm alright. Why do you ask?"
"I don't know... You haven't seemed yourself today, I guess is all."
Of course she says that, Oscar thinks. She's the one that knows me best, anyway.
"I don't? Well, I'm fine... I'm sorry if I don't seem it," Oscar responds, attempting to brighten his smile. "Anyways, I've got to be off, too, actually," he says, checking his expensive watch. He leans in to peck your lips as his hand brushes your waist, before waving and offering, "Catch you later, lovely!"
The combination of his affectionate gestures and him calling you 'lovely' kind of makes your head spin.
You lay next to Lando, absently stroking his cheek and chin, feeling his facial hair, as he holds you close, tracing sweet words with his gentle fingers into your back.
You sigh, completely contented in the practically perfect moment. You're in Spain, and it's Saturday night- the Spanish Grand Prix is tomorrow. You ended up taking the last Grand Prix weekend in Canada off, for your spa weekend. Either way, before the race tomorrow, Lando invited you for some snuggles in his hotel room, and there's no way you could say no to that.
So here you are.
But suddenly Lando whispers, "Do you think I should invite Oscar?"
Your heavy eyes seem to immediately open and sharpen at this suggestion. You take a moment to ponder his question, before asking one of your own instead of answering his: "Lando, do you like Oscar?"
"Y/n, of course I like Osc-"
"No, no, Lando. I mean... you know..." you begin carefully, "Do you like Oscar the way you like me?"
There's silence in the room as the air conditioner becomes deafeningly loud suddenly. You can hear a long, slow sigh escape from Lando's lips, into the air, before he slowly says, "Oh, Y/n. I've liked lots of people the way I've liked you in the past."
You smile a little. "I know. You're Lando Norris, for God's sake. Of course you have. But today, right now, in this moment, do you like Oscar the same way you like me?"
Lando presses his forehead into your shoulder before uttering quieter, "If I did, it wouldn't matter."
"Why not?" you prod.
"Because, Y/n, there's no way he likes me in the same way he likes you."
You sigh slowly, feeling a slight pang at hearing those words. You wrap your arms around Lando and pull him closer to you. "What do you like about Oscar...?" you whisper.
"Oh, fuck me, Y/n. Everything. His stupid sense of humour, the way he laughs at all my jokes, the way he looks at me with those brown eyes, the little birth marks all over him, how polite and calm and cool-headed and cooperative and agreeable and smart and sensible and friendly and genuinely good he is. His voice, too! His mentality. Don't fucking tell anyone this, or I will kill you, but I even like the way he's a little bit taller than me. I love his stupid hair and his big smile. His hands... I love them. I love everything about him. I love him, and it's like it all just hit me. I don't know, Y/n. I just don't know."
You lean in and peck his lips before whispering, "Oh, Lando Norris. I love him, too, for all the same reasons. And I love you, too."
"The thing is, Y/n," he barely whispers, "that he'll never, ever love me back."
That feels like a stab to your heart.
You can't imagine how it feels to Lando.
You cuddle him so close, and you hold each other so close, that you can feel his heart pounding in his chest. "Lando," you whisper. "I wish it could all just work out."
"Me, too, Y/n.
"Me too."
"Heyyy, Osc!" you grin, knocking on his open driver's room door. "You feeling good for the race?"
He smiles to see you in the door. "Yeah, I am. Come on in. Thanks for coming to see me, Y/n."
"Of course. It's a treat to see your handsome face."
He beams wider but rolls his eyes, "Oh, yeah?"
"Of course!" you giggle a bit.
"Well, do I get my pre-race hug, then?"
You grin and throw your arms around him, giving him a big kiss on his cheek, "You'll also be getting a post-race hug, too, when you win it!"
"Well, I guess that's always the goal, but we'll see about that." He leans back to look at you, gazing so warmly, so intensely for just a second, into your eyes, before looking away. He opens his mouth to say something, but then quickly closes it.
"What is it, Oscar?" you prod.
"I just wanted to say I love you."
You grin. "Don't ever hesitate to say that again. You don't need to, because I love you, too. And you and Lando better stay safe out there on the track today for me, okay?"
"Oh, alright, and the rest of the grid can all die; they don't matter," he teases.
"Oh, shut it, you!" you laugh, exiting his driver's room with a wave, "Go on and get ready for your race now!"
"Bye!" he laughs.
"Bye, bye, Osc!"
You lay on the bed in Lando's hotel room where you laid just last night, but this time, there's two people laying with you rather than just one.
Oscar is fast asleep on your right side, his right arm draped over your body and his head resting against your shoulder. Lando is on your left, still awake, gently rubbing your left hand absently as he runs his hand through his messy curls.
"Do you think Osc-"
"Ah-" Lando exclaims softly with a little flinch. "I thought you were sleeping already!" he laughs a bit.
You nod, waiting a few seconds before reasking your question, "Do you think Oscar is feeling better about the whole thing?"
"Oh, God, Y/n, I don't know. I think he's just kind of rolling with the punches," Lando sighs deeply. "He just wants you. He'll do anything to have you. Even sleep in the same bed as me."
"Oh... right..." you sigh, wrapping your arm around the sleeping Oscar, pulling him closer to you as you rest your head in the little nook between Lando's cheek and shoulder.
You shut your eyes, trying to force yourself to sleep, but your thoughts are raging, just like Lando's.
Why can't it all just be right? Why does it have to be so difficult? Is this the right thing? Should we give up on it?
Why can't the three of us just be right for each other?
This whole mess is all your fault, Y/n.
Your uncertain heart pounds in your ears, faster and faster, making you nearly go insane.
summary - reader has a habit of constantly writing love songs about her dream relationship or the love life of those close to her, all while being single herself. But, not for long when your best friend finds out and gets her boyfriends help to set you up with someone.
warnings - none really
faceclaim - gracie abrams
pt.2 will come soon, ask if you’d like to be tagged
liked by - yourusername, alex_albon and 198,091 others
lilymhe - Thank you all so much for your sweet birthday wishes, i spent my day with my favourite people 🤍
view comments
user1 - lily is the best wag i’ll stand by this forever
user2 - THE JELLY CAT CAKE SHUSHSUSHSUSHSUSH
user3 - oh to be best friends with y/n y/l/n 😔
lilymhe - it’s pretty great tbh
alex_albon - happy birthday my perfect beautiful stupid idiot 🤍
lilymhe - gonna act like those last two words weren’t there
yourusername - HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY 💕🩵💕🧡💕🧡🤍🧡🤍🧡🤍🧡🤍
lilymhe - THANK YOU 💕🤍
lilymhe - can i have my last gift now
yourusername - be patient you dummie
liked by - lilymhe, oscarpiastri and 1,862,919 others
tagged | @/lilymhe
yourusername - When I think about all the things I have to be grateful for so far in my life, an involuntary smile creeps its way onto my face when I get to the thing i’m most grateful for in the world; and that is, my Lily. I have no amount of words to describe how grateful and lucky I am to have you in my life. You are one of a kind, truly. You are my favourite person in the world with the purest soul ever. I couldn’t think of anyone else who would let me vomit all over their favourite shoes when I was sixteen and and she was eighteen and then proceeded to hug me through my tears because I hate throwing up. In you, I have the sister i’ve always needed, a shoulder to cry in when i need it, and someone who loves me inevitably no matter what.
Yesterday marked 25 years you’ve had your mark on this world, and nearly 23 years you’ve been there for me. I love you more than i’ll ever love anyone and I would kill for you. So, as a birthday present to my girl, i’ve written her a song about her and someone who she holds very dear to her heart.
I love you more than the moon loves the sky Lils, i hope you had the best day ever and i hope you enjoy your present (and alex ofc thanks for the inspo alabono) I love you forever. You are in love, about lils and alex out now, i hope both if you love it.
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user4 - what the fuck i’m so sobbing
lilymhe - i love you so so so so so much
yourusername - i love you too
lilymhe - i’m so crying you’re my favourite person ever
alex_albon - can confirm, she’s sobbing
user5 - THE. SONG.
user6 - okay this song puts into perspective why we all want what alex and lily have
user7 - i want a friend to love me like y/n and lily love each other
user8 - y/n and love songs are the perfect combination
user9 - you can tell this song wasn’t made with anyone in mind except lily and alex
user10 - if she can write this about someone else’s relationship, imagine what she can write about her own
user11 - all these love songs, still no lover
user12 - someone tell me where to buy a lily and y/n friendship
[alex & lily]
[y/n & lily]
Chocolate - The 1975
heart-wrenching & beautiful excerpts from the article on esteban ocon
that f1 lando has an absolutely enormous head
The void state is SOOOOOOOOOOO easy once you actually realize what it is. One major reason why you aren't "succeeding" in the void state is because you *drumroll, please* put it on a pedestal. Duh, just like everything else.
One thing I've noticed is how Loablr overcomplicated the void state so much. You guys acted like you were becoming a demi-god or an ethereal being going to Jupiter from your bedroom. You think before bed when you are going to lay down and affirm for the void "Okay...whew well it's time to go to the void" Baby you ARE the void. The void state is literally just forgetting about your body until you fall asleep. 😭😭 That's why you cant hear, or see, or feel anything because you assumed a new part of you. That's why the distraction technique works so well. It is because you were easily swayed and distracted from your body, from your physical, and now only in your head.
"So how do I enter it?" It's really up to you. Do you want to peacefully go to sleep and wake up in it? Do you want to affirm it? Do you want to do sats? Whatever YOU feel comfortable doing.
Personally, the way I entered the void was through sats. I love sats so much, and I use it for almost every single one of my manifestations. Lie down in any position you want. (I personally chose my back.) Close your eyes and feel your whole body relax. Breathe in and out until your mind goes completely blank. Then affirm. Say "I" and breathe in "Am" and Breathe out. Repeat this process until you feel symptoms (floating, falling, etc) You may see it get pitch black behind your eyes, that's when you know You're in the void. (credits to reddit I got the affirming technique from there) One major tip is to make a rule that you always wake up in the void. You could affirm throughout the day how you wake up in the void on command/every night with ease. Thank you so much for reading! Feel free to ask questions, Anons are always open <3
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i miss twin (luke castellan) ☹️
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