January 2024

West Los Angeles

With the Formula 1 season over and Hailee now about four months pregnant, life had taken on a quieter, more focused rhythm for Y/N and Hailee. The hustle and bustle of race weekends and movie premieres had given way to a different kind of preparation, one filled with excitement and a little bit of nervous anticipation for the arrival of their twins

One morning, after breakfast, Y/N and Hailee headed out to West Los Angeles for their first childbirth class. It was a new experience for both of them, and while they were eager to learn, there was a bit of uncertainty in the air.

The class was held in a cozy studio, with soft lighting and comfortable seating arranged in a circle. A handful of other couples were already there, chatting quietly or flipping through the provided materials. Y/N and Hailee took a seat, exchanging a smile as they settled in.

The instructor, a warm and experienced wife named Sarah, greeted everyone with a welcoming smile

Sarah: Welcome, everyone! It's wonderful to see so many expectant parents here today. Over the next few weeks, we're going to cover a lot of ground. Everything from labor and delivery to newborn care. But first, let's start with some introductions. I'd love to hear your names and maybe a little bit about what you're most excited...or nervous

One by one, the couples introduced themselves. Some were first-time parents like Y/N and Hailee, while others were expecting their second or third child. When it was their turn, Y/N squeezed Hailee's hand and spoke up

Y/N: Hi, I'm Y/N, and this is Hailee. We're expecting twins, which is exciting...and a little terrifying. But we're just really looking forward to learning everything we can to be ready for their arrival.

Hailee: Yeah, we've been reading a lot, but it's great to be here and get some hands-on guidance. I think we're both a little nervous, but mostly just excited.

Sarah nodded, her smile encouraging

Sarah: Twins!? That's wonderful. And it's completely normal to feel both excited and nervous...especially with two little ones on the way. We'll make sure you're as prepared as possible, and you'll be surprised at how much of this will come naturally once you're in the moment.

The class moved on to the first topic: Understanding the stages of labor. Sarah walked everyone through what to expect, from early labor signs to active labor and delivery. She demonstrated different breathing techniques and positions that could help during contractions, and the couples practiced together.

Y/N, ever the perfectionist, paid close attention, wanting to be as prepared as possible. He couldn't help but glance over at Hailee every now and then, watching her concentrate on the exercises. He knew how important this was to her, and he was determined to be the best support he could be.

As the class continued, the atmosphere became more relaxed. The couples began to share stories and experiences, laughing at the little quirks and challenges of pregnancy. By the end of the session, there was a sense of camaraderie in the room.

Sarah: You all did great today. Remember, this is just the beginning. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when the time comes. And don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns along the way.

As they left the class, Y/N and Hailee felt a renewed sense of connection and readiness.

Y/N: How are you feeling, Haiz? I think we did pretty well in there

Hailee: I feel good. It's nice to know we're not alone in this, and that we're getting closer to being ready. And I'm glad you're with me every step of the way.

Y/N: Always. We're in this together.

As they walked out of the childbirth class, feeling more connected and ready for what was to come, Y/N and Hailee continued their conversation with light-hearted banter. The anticipation and excitement of preparing for their twins had brought them even closer, and they both felt a sense of comfort in knowing they were tackling this new chapter of their lives together.

However, as they strolled through the hallway towards the exit, Y/N noticed a few men glancing in his direction. At first, he thought nothing of it, assuming they were just being friendly. But then, one of the men, holding a baby carrier in one hand, approached him with a slightly hesitant smile

Man: Hey, are you... Y/N Specter? The F1 driver?

Y/N, a bit surprised but smiling politely, nodded.

Y/N: Yeah, that's me.

The man's face lit up, and he quickly called over a couple of his friends, who were also carrying baby gear and had clearly been in the class as well.

Man 2: No way! My buddy told me you were in the class, but I didn't believe him. Do you mind if we get a quick picture?

Y/N glanced at Hailee, who smiled and gave him a little nod. She was used to this by now and knew he didn't mind the attention, especially when it came from fans who were genuine and excited.

Y/N: Sure, no problem.

As the small group gathered around, Y/N took a couple of photos with the dads. They even asked him to sign a few items. One guy had a baby onesie with a little racing car on it, which made Y/N chuckle as he signed it

Man 3: I gotta say, it's pretty cool to see an F1 driver here in LA. You know, F1's been getting bigger here lately, but still, seeing you in person is just... wow.

Y/N: Thanks, man. I'm glad to see the sport growing here. And hey, we're all just trying to figure out this parenting thing, right? I'm in the same boat as you guys.

They all laughed, appreciating Y/N's down-to-earth attitude

As the men thanked him and headed off, Y/N turned back to Hailee, who was watching with an amused expression.

Hailee: Well, look at you, Mr. Popular. I didn't realize F1 had such a fanbase here.

Y/N: Neither did I. But hey... it's kinda nice to meet fans who are also dads-to-be. Makes me feel like we're all in this together, you know?

Hailee linked her arm with his, leaning her head on his shoulder as they walked out to the parking lot.

Hailee: That's one of the things I love about you. You never let the fame get to your head. You're just... you.

Y/N smiled, giving her a gentle squeeze.

Y/N: Well, I've got you to keep me grounded. And now, we've got two little ones on the way to remind us of what's really important.

Minutes later...

Y/N and Hailee's Villa, Beverly Hills

As Y/N and Hailee pulled into their driveway, the anticipation of seeing the twins' room filled them with excitement. The journey of preparing for their babies had been filled with emotions, and knowing their family was so involved made it all the more special

Hailee: I can't wait to see what they've done with the room. Knowing my mom and Donna, it's probably going to be amazing.

Y/N: Yeah, and with my dad and Pete on toy duty, I'm sure we're going to walk into a mini wonderland.

They shared a smile as they stepped out of the car, heading inside their villa. The moment they entered, they were greeted by the familiar, comforting scent of home mixed with the subtle hint of fresh paint and new furniture

Cheri, Donna, Harvey, and Pete were in the nursery, putting the finishing touches on the room. Cheri was folding tiny, neutral-colored baby clothes, while Donna carefully arranged a few plush toys on a shelf. Harvey and Pete were adjusting the cribs, making sure everything was perfect

Donna looked up as they entered, her face lighting up with a warm smile

Donna: Perfect timing! We were just about to finish up. Come take a look.

Y/N and Hailee exchanged a glance, their excitement palpable as they walked into the nursery. The room was bathed in soft, natural light, with walls painted in a gentle, soothing shade of pale green. The cribs were set up side by side, each adorned with cozy, gender-neutral bedding in shades of white and gray.

There were little touches of love everywhere...plush animals on the shelves, a rocking chair in the corner with a soft blanket draped over it, and a mobile hanging above the cribs with little stars and clouds

Hailee's eyes welled up with tears as she took in the sight. The room was perfect, more than she could have ever imagined.

Hailee: It's beautiful... Thank you, all of you.

Cheri walked over and hugged her daughter, smiling warmly.

Cheri: We wanted everything to be just right for our grandbabies. They're going to be so loved, Hailee. We can't wait to meet them.

Y/N, equally moved, walked over to Harvey and Pete, who were admiring their work on the cribs.

Y/N: You guys really outdid yourselves. This is... perfect. Thank you.

Harvey clapped Y/N on the back with a proud smile.

Harvey: Nothing but the best for my grandkids. And it's not every day I get to do something like this.

Pete grinned, nodding in agreement.

Pete: We wanted to make sure everything was just right. These little ones are going to be so lucky to have you two as parents

Y/N and Hailee took a moment to stand together in the middle of the room, absorbing the love and care that had gone into creating this space for their children. It was a reflection of the family that had supported them every step of the way

Y/N: I can't believe this is really happening... We're going to be parents.

Hailee leaned her head against his shoulder, feeling a mix of excitement and contentment.

Hailee: And our babies are already so loved. This is everything I could've hoped for.

As they stood there, surrounded by their family, the nursery felt like the start of something beautiful the beginning of a new chapter filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities for the future

As Y/N and Hailee stood in the nursery, soaking in the moment, they heard the familiar sound of paws scuffling against the floor. Moments later, Griffin appeared in the doorway, a big grin on his face, with all of the dogs in tow, including his golden retriever, Dwight.

Griffin: Hey, look who's back from the grand adventure!

The dogs, energized from their walk, bounded into the room, tails wagging furiously. Maximus and Dwight immediately made a beeline for Hailee, nuzzling against her legs as if sensing the extra care she needed. The other dogs, including Martini, Brando and Conan, were right behind them, sniffing around the nursery and exploring the new space

Y/N laughed, watching the chaos of fur and wagging tails fill the room with even more life.

Y/N: Thanks for taking them out, Griff. They look like they had a blast.

Griffin shrugged, still smiling as he watched the dogs happily investigating the nursery.

Griffin: No problem. Figured they could use a good run, and Dwight here loves a good walk. Plus, I think they're all excited about the new arrivals too.

Hailee bent down carefully to pet Maximus and Dwight, her heart swelling with affection as she watched the dogs interact with their growing family.

Hailee: They're going to be great with the babies. I can already tell

As Hailee gently stroked Maximus's fur, he let out a curious whimper, tilting his head as if trying to understand something. His ears perked up, and he pressed his nose gently against Hailee's belly, making a soft sound that almost seemed like a question.

Hailee: What is it, Maxie? Do you hear something?

Maximus's eyes softened as he continued to nuzzle Hailee's belly, his tail wagging slowly. It was as if he could sense the tiny lives growing inside her, aware of the changes happening within his beloved human

Y/N, noticing the interaction, smiled and knelt down beside Hailee, resting a hand on her belly as well.

Y/N: Looks like Maximus might be the first to bond with the twins.

Maximus gave a gentle bark in response, his way of agreeing, it seemed. Dwight, not wanting to be left out, joined in, nuzzling Hailee's other side and looking up at her with those soulful eyes.

Griffin, watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but laugh.

Griffin: Looks like you've got some eager babysitters on your hands.

Donna, who had been quietly observing, wiped away a tear, touched by the connection the dogs were already forming with the babies

After that, Liam and Greer arrived at the house, being greeted by a flurry of excitement. The nursery was beautifully set up, with everything meticulously organized and ready for the twins. Liam and Greer took a moment to take it all in before heading over to find Y/N

Liam walked up to Y/N with a big grin on his face. Despite not being related by blood, their bond was as strong as that of any siblings. Y/N was genuinely touched by Liam's presence.

Liam: Y/N, congratulations, dude! This is amazing. You and Hailee are going to be fantastic parents.

Liam pulled Y/N into a warm hug, and Y/N embraced him back, feeling the familiar comfort of their brotherly connection.

Y/N: Thanks, Liam. It means a lot to have you here. We're excited, but it's also a bit overwhelming. It's great to have family around.

Greer, who had been admiring the nursery with Hailee, came over with a smile. She gave Hailee a hug and congratulated her, her excitement clear.

Y/N: Also...we'd like to offer you guys something...

He paused, glancing at Hailee, who gave him a reassuring nod

Hailee: We've been thinking a lot about the future and how we want to raise our kids. We're thrilled to have you both here, and it means so much to us. We wanted to ask if you would consider being godparents for one of the twins.

Liam looked taken aback, his eyes widening with a mix of surprise and emotion. Greer's face lit up with a bright smile, clearly touched by the request.

Liam: Wow, that's such an honor. I'd be incredibly proud to be a godparent to one of your twins. You know how much you both mean to me, and I'd love to be a part of their lives in such a meaningful way

Greer: Absolutely! I would be honored to be their godmotherl. I've seen how amazing you both are, and I'd love to be there for your little ones. It's a huge responsibility, but one I'd cherish deeply.

Hailee and Y/N both breathed a sigh of relief and happiness, feeling the weight of the decision lift from their shoulders. They were thrilled to have such supportive and loving people as part of their children's lives.

Weeks later...

Silverstone, England

Pre-Season Testing

The cold winter air of Silverstone greeted Y/N and Hailee as they arrived at the McLaren pre-season testing. The news of Hailee's pregnancy had spread, and while the attention was overwhelming at times, they were grateful for the support from fans and the media.

Hailee, wrapped in a stylish overcoat, carefully protecting her growing bump, smiled as she walked beside Y/N. Despite the chill in the air, there was warmth between them, a shared excitement for the future and the anticipation of what the season would bring

Y/N: You holding up okay? Not too cold?

Hailee: I'm good, just a little chilly, but I've got you to keep me warm.

She leaned into him, and he smiled, kissing the top of her head. The moment was short-lived as Zak Brown approached them with a grin.

Zak: Good to see you both here! The team's excited to have you, Y/N. And Hailee, congratulations on the babies! How you feeling?

Hailee: Thank you, Zak. I'm feeling great, just taking things day by day

Zak nodded, then gestured towards the garage

Zak: Car's ready, Y/N. Whenever you want, we'll get you out there

Y/N gave Hailee's hand a gentle squeeze before heading off to get suited up

As he drives, Y/N gripped the steering wheel of his McLaren, feeling the power of the new Lamborghini engine beneath him. The car responded with precision, cutting through the cold Silverstone air as he pushed it to its limits. Each turn, each straight, felt smoother, more controlled than last year

Y/N: That's more like it!

Back in the garage, Hailee watched the screen intently, her eyes tracking Y/N's every move on the circuit. She smiled as she saw the times coming in. Y/N was doing great, and the car seemed to be handling perfectly

As she leaned forward, completely immersed in the action on the track, she suddenly felt a gentle hand on her shoulder. Startled, she turned quickly to see who it was. Lando stood behind her, a playful grin on his face, and beside him was his girlfriend, Magui Corceiro, smiling warmly

Hailee: Lando!

Hailee exclaimed, her surprise turning into laughter

Lando: Sorry about that, couldn't resist. Just wanted to come by and congratulate you. You and Y/N are going to be amazing parents

Magui stepped forward, her expression soft and full of warmth. Despite the rumors and the drama that had surrounded her relationship with Lando, Hailee found herself liking Magui

Magui: We're so happy for you both, Hailee. How are you feeling?

Hailee: Thank you, Magui. I'm feeling good, just trying to stay warm out here

Magui: You're both going to have such an incredible year. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here for you

Hailee felt a surge of gratitude, realizing that despite the whispers and gossip, Magui was someone she could trust

Lando: And hey, if you ever need a babysitter, you know who to call

After a long day of testing, Y/N and Hailee were ready to unwind and head back to their hotel. The cold of the English winter was biting, and Hailee was grateful for the warmth of her overcoat as they walked toward the entrance. Y/N held her close, his arm wrapped protectively around her waist

But as they approached the hotel, they were met with a familiar, unwelcome sight...

...Paparazzi

A swarm of photographers and reporters had gathered at the entrance, their cameras flashing wildly as soon as Y/N and Hailee came into view

Paparazzo 1: Y/N! Hailee! Over here!

One of the photographers shouted, his camera snapping away as he pushed forward

Paparazzo 2: How's the baby, Hailee? Are you excited for the season, Y/N?

Another called out, trying to get a reaction from the couple

Y/N instinctively tightened his grip on Hailee, protecting her from the chaos. He knew the attention was inevitable, especially after the news of Hailee's pregnancy had broken, but it didn't make moments like this any easier

Hailee kept her head down, her hand resting on her small bump as they tried to navigate through the crowd. The questions continued to be hurled at them, some of them invasive and too personal

Paparazzo 3: Are you hoping for a boy or a girl?

Y/N shot the reporter a sharp look, his protective instincts kicking in

Y/N: No comment

As they finally made it through the group of people, the hotel staff quickly stepped in, helping to usher the couple inside and away from the flashing lights and shouting voices

Y/N looked at Hailee, his eyes filled with concern

Y/N: Are you okay?

Hailee nodded, though she looked a bit shaken

Hailee: Yeah, I'm okay. Just... not a fan of that part of our lives

With that, they headed toward the elevator, eager to leave the chaos behind and find some peace in the privacy of their hotel room

Once inside the room, Y/N and Hailee finally felt the tension of the day start to melt away. They kicked off their shoes, and after a quick change into more comfortable clothes, they settled onto the plush couch in the living area. Y/N ordered some room service, and soon they were enjoying a quiet, cozy evening together.

Hailee suggested they watch a movie, and Y/N was more than happy to oblige. She scrolled through the options and landed on Jerry Maguire, a classic she loved. Y/N knew the movie well but hadn't watched it in years. They snuggled up together, Hailee resting her head on Y/N's shoulder as the film began.

As the movie played, Hailee became more and more engrossed in the story, her emotions heightened by the pregnancy hormones. When the iconic "You had me at hello" scene arrived, Hailee couldn't hold back her tears. The sincerity and vulnerability of the moment struck her deeply, and tears began to well up in her eyes

Y/N noticed almost immediately, feeling her body tremble slightly as she tried to keep quiet. He looked down at her, seeing the tears streaming down her face

Y/N: Hey, hey. What's wrong?

Hailee sniffled, wiping at her tears but unable to stop them

Hailee: It's just... it's so beautiful. And... and I blame these goddamn hormones, 'cause they're making me cry like a baby!

Y/N couldn't help but smile, his heart swelling with love for her

Y/N: I get it. It's a pretty emotional scene. And I love that you're so in touch with your feelings. It's one of the things that makes you... you

He kissed the top of her head, rubbing her arm gently. Hailee looked up at him, her eyes still wet with tears but now also filled with gratitude

Hailee: You're too good to me, you know that?

Y/N: I try...

...

Meanwhile...

Y/N and Hailee's Villa, Beverly Hills

At Y/N and Hailee's Villa, Donna and Cheri sat back with glasses of wine in hand, finally taking a break after a long day of preparing the house for the babies' arrival. The nursery was coming together beautifully, and they had just finished organizing the last of the baby clothes and supplies

The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow through the windows as they relaxed in the living room. Cheri took a sip of her wine and smiled, savoring the quiet moment.

Cheri: We don't get a lot of moments like this...the in-laws bonding like this. It's nice.

Donna: Well, it doesn't help that you're here in LA while Harvey and I are all the way in New York. But I'm glad we're getting this time together now.

Cheri: Me too. It's been great working on this nursery with you. I feel like we've really made it special for them. And it's so clear how much you love Y/N

Donna: Seeing him so happy with Hailee, knowing they're starting a family... it makes all the distance worth it

Cheri nodded, her eyes softening as she thought about her daughter and the journey ahead.

Cheri: I feel the same way about Hailee. And knowing that Y/N is there to support her, to love her the way he does...it just brings me so much peace.

Donna smiled warmly, raising her glass.

Donna: To our kids... and the beautiful life they're building together.

Cheri clinked her glass against Donna's, her smile mirroring hers

Meanwhile, Harvey and Pete sat by the pool, each holding a glass of whiskey. The air was cool, and the gentle ripple of the water reflected the evening sky. They had been discussing the day's preparations for the twins, but now the conversation drifted toward their sons.

Pete took a sip of his whiskey and leaned back in his chair, glancing at Harvey.

Pete: Y'know, Griffin was a NASCAR driver for a while. So, when did Y/N's passion for motorsport begin?

Harvey smiled, a touch of nostalgia in his eyes as he remembered those early days.

Harvey: It started with us watching Le Mans together. He was just a kid, but he was hooked from the moment Steve McQueen appeared on the screen. We'd watch those races over and over, and before I knew it, Y/N was begging me to take him to the go-kart track.

Pete nodded, intrigued.

Pete: Le Mans, huh? That's a classic. So, you took him to races?

Harvey: Yeah, every chance we got. It started with karting, but Y/N was serious about it from the start. I thought it might just be a phase, but the kid had talent. He was determined, focused...and he never gave up, even when things got tough

Pete smiled, raising his glass.

Pete: Here's to our kids, then. They've both got something special, and together, they're unstoppable.

Harvey clinked his glass against Pete's, feeling a deep sense of pride for the son he had watched grow into a man.

Harvey: To Y/N and Hailee. They've got a hell of a journey ahead of them, but if anyone can handle it, it's those two

...

March 2024

Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir

The paddock buzzed with excitement as the new season of Formula 1 was about to kick off. Y/N was in his zone, fully focused on the race ahead. The off-season had been intense, with rigorous testing and preparation, and now it was time to put all that hard work to the test. The new Lamborghini-powered McLaren felt solid, and Y/N was determined to make a strong start to the season.

As he made his way through the paddock, helmet in hand, he was approached by Devon Butler. The notorious rival had always enjoyed playing mind games, and today was no different. Devon smirked as he sidled up to Y/N, his voice dripping with insincerity.

Devon: Well, well, well, if it isn't the family man himself. How's the missus? Heard she's got a little bun in the oven. Must be tough, balancing all that with racing. You sure your head's in the right place for this season, mate?

Y/N didn't even flinch. He had dealt with Devon's antics for years and knew better than to let it get to him. With his eyes fixed ahead, he simply continued walking, letting the words roll off his back

Y/N: Nice try, Butler. But if you think that's going to get in my head, you're wasting your breath.

Devon laughed, clearly annoyed that his attempt to rattle Y/N had failed.

Devon: We'll see, Specter. We'll see. Just remember, this isn't a nursery, it's Formula 1. Keep your eyes on the track, or someone might just take advantage of your... distractions.

Y/N stopped and turned to face Devon, his expression cool and controlled.

Y/N: First of all...I suggest you know your fucking place. You're in a Haas, I'm in a McLaren...we're not in F2 anymore. There's no equal machinery between you and me. It's just you and your shitbox of a car. Second of all...the only drivers in this paddock that can take advantage of any of my distractions are: Max, Lewis, Charles, Nando and no one else. I'm here...you're here!

Y/N raised one hand high, signaling his own position, and then lowered the other, indicating where Devon stood

Devon's face hardened, the smirk now completely gone, replaced by a frown. He had underestimated Y/N's resolve and walked straight into a verbal takedown.

Y/N: Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a podium finish to conquer and...a loving girlfriend with two beautiful babies in her belly that's waiting for me in the garage

The mention of Hailee and their unborn twins was the perfect cherry on top, emphasizing not just Y/N's superiority on the track but the fullness of his life off it. It was a reminder to Devon that Y/N was driven by more than just competition...he had a future to protect and a family to fight for

Meanwhile, Hailee sat in the garage, her hand resting on her slightly rounded belly as she watched the team prepare Y/N's car. Entering her sixth month of pregnancy, the changes in her body were becoming more pronounced. The babies were active, their kicks becoming stronger by the day. She could feel her heart working overtime, pumping up to 50 percent more blood, and every now and then, the tightening sensation of Braxton-Hicks contractions would remind her that her body was preparing for the real thing

Beside her, Greer offered a comforting presence. She had been a constant support throughout the pregnancy, helping Hailee manage the more difficult days. Today, Hailee felt the familiar ache in her lower back, a dull throb that had become a regular companion. Dizzy spells came and went, and though she tried to keep a brave face, the physical demands were getting harder to ignore.

Greer noticed the slight wince on Hailee's face as another contraction passed. She reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Hailee's shoulder.

Greer: You okay? Do you need anything?

Hailee managed a smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes.

Hailee: I'm fine, just... these babies are really making their presence known today. Easy there...

She rubbed her belly gently, trying to soothe the little ones inside.

Greer: You're doing amazing, Haiz. I can't even imagine how tough this is, but you're handling it like a pro.

As the race progressed, Y/N was in his element. The roar of the engine and the adrenaline of the track fueled his focus as he masterfully maneuvered through the field. Starting from P5, he had already made impressive moves, overtaking Lando, Leclerc, Perez, and Sainz to claim P2. The McLaren, powered by its new Lamborghini engine, was performing better than ever, and Y/N was locked in, eyes on the prize.

In the garage, Hailee sat on the edge of her seat, her heart pounding with every lap. She watched the screens, eyes tracking Y/N's progress as he continued to battle the front-runners. Even with her growing discomfort from the pregnancy, the excitement of the race momentarily dulled the aches and pains. Greer sat beside her, offering quiet support, glancing between Hailee and the race with a look of awe at how far Y/N had come.

Greer: He's on fire today, isn't he?

Hailee nodded, her gaze fixed on the screen.

Hailee: Yeah, he's... incredible. He's... worked so hard for this.

Y/N was now chasing down Max, who had led the race from the start. The gap between them was narrowing with every lap, and it seemed like Y/N had his sights set on challenging for the win.

The tension in the garage was palpable. The team was buzzing, their eyes flicking between the live feed and their data screens. Hailee, though trying to stay calm, could feel the babies moving inside her, as if they, too, could feel the excitement of the race.

As Y/N approached another corner, expertly handling the car's balance, he made his move. Verstappen was just ahead, but Y/N was closing in fast. The race had become a thrilling game of cat and mouse, and the crowd could feel that something big was about to happen

As the race entered its final stages, Y/N was battling hard to maintain his P2 position, with Lando Norris closing in from behind. The team radio crackled to life, and Rob's voice came through:

Rob: Y/N... Lando is faster than you. Lando is faster than you.

Y/N gripped the wheel tighter, his jaw clenched. He knew what the team was asking, but this was his race. He had fought hard, overtaken some of the best drivers on the grid, and worked his way to this position. Giving it up now didn't sit right with him, especially not when he felt he still had more to give.

Y/N kept pushing, ignoring the order for the moment. He could feel the pressure from Lando behind him, but he wasn't ready to back down. Not yet. His heart raced, matching the engine's roar, and his focus was laser-sharp as he navigated the corners with precision.

Y/N: Not like this, Rob. Not like this.

He could hear the team discussing in the background, but Y/N knew what he had to do. He was determined to finish this race on his terms. The gap between him and Verstappen had stabilized, and Lando was getting closer, but Y/N wasn't ready to let go of P2 without a fight.

In the garage, Hailee watched with wide eyes, her heart in her throat. She knew Y/N was giving it everything, and she could sense the weight of the decision hanging over him. Greer placed a reassuring hand on Hailee's shoulder, though the tension was thick in the air.

With only a few laps to go, Y/N pushed his McLaren to the limit, determined to hold off Lando

As the race concluded, Max Verstappen secured yet another victory, but the real tension lay behind him. Y/N had defied team orders to hold onto P2, crossing the finish line ahead of his teammate, Lando Norris. The silence between the two McLaren drivers was deafening as they entered the cooldown room. Max, sensing the awkward atmosphere, tried to make small talk.

Max: Well, another podium for all of us... that was a tough one, huh?

Neither Y/N nor Lando responded, each too caught up in their own thoughts. Y/N's decision to ignore the team order loomed over them. The usually celebratory vibe in the cooldown room was heavy with tension. Lando's eyes flickered toward Y/N a few times, but he said nothing. The podium celebration that followed was equally strained. The two McLaren drivers barely looked at each other as they sprayed the champagne, the usual joy of such a moment replaced by icy stares and forced smiles.

Later, in the McLaren motorhome, Zak and Andrea sat with Y/N and Lando to address what had transpired. The tension was palpable, and the discussion quickly escalated into a heated argument between the two drivers.

Lando: You ignored the team's orders, Y/N! You know what that means for us, for the team! It wasn't just about you out there.

Y/N: I know exactly what it means, Lando. But I wasn't going to just roll over and let you pass! I was faster in that moment, and I wasn't giving up P2 just because someone told me to

Lando's frustration was clear as he threw his hands up in exasperation.

Lando: Faster in that moment? The team saw the data! They told you to let me through for a reason. We're supposed to be working together here, but you made it about yourself.

Y/N stood his ground, his voice firm.

Y/N: I've been a team player the entire last season, Lando. But today, I knew I had it. I wasn't going to lose a podium spot just to make things easier for you.

Zak intervened, trying to diffuse the situation.

Zak: Alright, both of you, calm down. This is not how we handle things. Y/N, we had a strategy, and you didn't follow it. That's not how a team operates, no matter the situation.

Y/N: I get that, Zak. But in the moment, it didn't feel right. I've worked hard all year, and I'm not just handing over a position. Not without a fight.

Andrea Stella, the team principal, leaned in, his tone more measured.

Andrea: We understand the competitiveness, Y/N... but the team comes first. It's not about individual glory...it's about maximizing points for McLaren. We're fighting for a strong Constructors' Championship finish.

The room went quiet for a moment as the gravity of the situation sank in. Lando still looked angry, but there was a flicker of understanding in his eyes. He knew Y/N wasn't just being reckless, he was fighting with his heart on the track.

Lando: I get it, mate. We're both out there giving everything. But next time... we need to be on the same page. For the team.

Y/N nodded, taking a deep breath.

Y/N: Yeah, next time. But I'm not going to apologize for wanting to win.

Zak exchanged a look with Andrea before addressing them both.

Zak: Alright, we'll leave it here for now. We've got a long season ahead. But from now on, we stick to the plan. Agreed?

Both Y/N and Lando nodded, the tension easing slightly but not fully resolved. They knew this wouldn't be the last time they'd clash, but for now, they had to keep moving forward—for the team and for themselves

As they were about to leave the room, the door burst open, and a PR assistant named Mitchell stumbled in, looking as though he had just run a marathon. His face was pale, his breath ragged, and his expression...one of shock and deep sadness sent a chill through the room.

Zak: Mitchell, I told you to knock!

Zak's voice was firm, more out of habit than genuine frustration.

Mitchell, still catching his breath, looked at Zak, his eyes wide and filled with a heavy sorrow.

Mitchell: Sorry, boss... it's just... it's...

He hesitated, as if the words were too difficult to say. His voice trembled, and the entire room seemed to freeze.

Mitchell: It's Michael Schumacher, sir...