The hotel room is quiet, only the faint hum of the air conditioning can be heard.

Lando is sitting in the bed.

He's still wearing his McLaren shirt as he stares at his phone screen, blinking as if the comments under the video of his accident might change if he does it often enough.

The accident replays endlessly in his head, but now the online world is making sure it's on a loop there too.

User 1: All too much for little Lando Norris.. User 2: WDC material they said… User 3: I thought it was easy to win in the fastest car according to Lando. Must only apply to the better driver in the team. User 4: bro kissed that wall passionately.. User 5: Zak Brown - “it’s Lando’s era”

His jaw tenses.

Every comment feels like another blow, sharper than the crash against the wall.

He continues scrolling, his thumb hesitating slightly with each new comment, expecting there to be more.

And then he sees it.

Your comment.

You : I think this one’s on me. I'm sure i’m your bad luck charm...sorry Babe. And to everyone else, yeah, we’re dating. Secretly...well…now not so secretly anymore.

His lips curl.

A tiny, gentle smile forms on his lips. The first since the accident.

You always know how to get through to him, even on the worst days.

Your comment isn't just a distraction.

He reminds himself that there's more to life than qualifying results and internet strangers with harsh words.

That, ultimately, he's not alone.

A second later, his phone buzzes again and your name appears on the screen.

You : Checked the comments yet? I’m ready to take the blame. Bad luck Girlfriend duties and that..

Lando laughs quietly and types back.

Lando : Yeah, I saw. Guess I’ll forgive myself if you’re taking the blame. Want to call? FaceTime? I need my lucky charm.

He presses 'Send' and waits for your reply.