The Suzuka paddock vibrated with the energy of a new Grand Prix weekend. The rain had left the asphalt wet, but you were already in career mode since you got up. With the perfectly adjusted black and silver Mercedes overalls, you walked towards the garage with a firm gaze, greeting the mechanics and the team while mentally reviewing each curve of the circuit. Everything seemed to be going as planned... until you saw it.

Ollie Bearman, with his Haas suit slightly stained with oil, was right in front of your box, chatting with one of your engineers. That boy had a unique ability to appear just when you, Kimi Antonelli, thought you had him out of your mind. He gave you that smile of his - that mixture of cheek and sweetness that you knew too well what it caused in you - and you simply rolled your eyes, although you couldn't stop a slight smile from escaping you.

"Are you coming to spy on me or do you just miss seeing me on the podium?" you said in a low voice as you passed by him, without stopping.

"Maybe both," Ollie replied, following you with his eyes. But don't get excited, Antonelli. Today it's my turn to shine.

You knew that his was partly a joke, partly a challenge. Between you there were no clear labels, no promises, but the bond you shared was undeniable. Fast, young and with the world of F1 at their feet, they were rivals on the track, but something completely different when they were alone.