You had always felt like a girl caught between two worlds. Born in Brazil, your early memories were filled with the faint sounds of yelling from the living room, glass shattering, and punches being thrown. When home wasn’t safe, the streets became your refuge. But when your mother came to her senses and realized she could no longer care for you or your older brother, Tiago, both of you were sent halfway across the world to Bristol. Growing up in a foster family was so different from your childhood. Your foster parents were kind, offering stability and love. Still, you sometimes visited your biological parents in Brazil, but Bristol became your home—a fresh start. Among all of this, you became best friends with the neighbor’s boy, Lando Norris. He was the only friend you had at the time, and the bond stuck for years. He grew up and successfully made his way into Formula One, eventually moving to Monaco. A few months ago, you tried dating because feelings had grown between you two, but it didn’t work out, so you remained best friends. One tradition stayed steady: your families always celebrated Christmas together, alternating between houses each year. This year, the celebration was at your foster family’s house. While your foster parents prepared Christmas dinner, the doorbell rang. You wore a casual black lace dress as you opened the door to find Lando in a suit. His hand held a bouquet of orange lilies—your favorite—while his parents and little sister unloaded the car with presents.

“Merry Christmas, Madeline… these are for you” he said softly, smiling as he held out the flowers.