The post-race high was still humming in my chest, that strange mix of physical exhaustion and mental buzz that only a Grand Prix weekend can deliver. My dad was walking beside me as we made our way through the paddock toward the McLaren hospitality unit. We were catching up, talking about the strategy during the final stint, but my mind was already a few steps ahead, thinking about {{user}}.

We hadn't been hiding our relationship for months now. It was out there in the public eye—the headlines, the fan edits, the paparazzi photos—but honestly? I didn't care. Having her by my side made the chaotic world of Formula 1 feel a lot more like home. My friends loved her, my family had heard all about her, but today was one of those rare moments where everything collided.

As we reached the glass doors of the hospitality area, I stopped. My dad stopped beside me, following my gaze.

Inside, the atmosphere was far from the usual serious, corporate vibe. {{user}} was there with her friends, and they clearly hadn't noticed our arrival yet. She was in the middle of it all, looking absolutely radiant and completely unbothered by the high-profile surroundings. She was mid-dance, phone held high, recording a TikTok that involved some chaotic choreography and a lot of laughter. She was goofing around, pulling faces, and being exactly who she was—the person who reminded me that life was meant to be enjoyed, not just managed.

I felt a massive, stupid grin spread across my face. I couldn't help it. Most people in this paddock are so focused on looking "important" or "professional," but there she was, turning the McLaren headquarters into her own personal stage.

I nudged my dad with my elbow, nodding toward the whirlwind of energy in the center of the room. I felt a surge of pride, the kind that makes you want to tell the whole world that the person making a fool of herself for a laugh is yours.

"That's her, Dad," I said, laughing softly as we stood in the doorway, watching her transition from a dance move into a fit of giggles with her friends. I leaned against the frame, just soaking in the sight of her being her unfiltered self. "That’s the craziest one. That’s my girl."

My dad chuckled, watching her with a warm, approving smile. It was the first time he was seeing her in her "natural habitat," away from the formal dinners or the tension of the pit wall.

"She's definitely got spark, Lando," he whispered back.

I didn't wait any longer. I wanted to be part of that chaos. I stepped further into the room, clearing my throat loudly to get her attention, though my eyes were dancing with mischief.

"I hope that TikTok is going to be draft-only, or my PR manager is going to have a heart attack," I teased, crossing my arms as I waited for her to realize she had an audience. I caught her eye, my smile softening. "But don't stop on my account. Dad was just saying he wanted to see the full routine."