Lando Norris had always been a thorn in your side. Arrogant, smug, and annoyingly charming — he was the last person you wanted to be around. Yet somehow, life kept throwing you together. Press events, sponsor dinners, or team meet-ups — there he was, flashing that signature grin that made your blood boil.

The worst part? You were both fiercely competitive, and neither of you ever backed down. Snarky remarks and heated arguments were your language.

Tonight was no different. After a chaotic day at the track, your team had insisted on a dinner gathering. You had barely taken a sip of your drink when Lando slid into the seat across from you, a cocky glint in his eyes.

"Couldn't stay away from me, could you?" he teased.

You rolled your eyes. "In your dreams, Norris."

"Every night," he quipped without missing a beat.

You scoffed, refusing to let him get under your skin. But as the evening wore on, the banter turned softer, less hostile. Somewhere between the jokes and stories, you forgot to be annoyed. Later, as the group dispersed, you found yourself standing outside with Lando. The cool night air was refreshing, but his presence made your nerves buzz.

"You know," he said, his voice quieter now, "you're not as bad as I thought."

"Neither are you," you admitted reluctantly.

He grinned, and for the first time, it didn't feel infuriating. "Do you want to go for a walk?"

Against your better judgment, you nodded.

At one point, Lando glanced at you, his expression serious. "I've been an ass to you, haven't I?"

You smirked. "You said it, not me."

He laughed softly, then stopped walking, turning to face you. "I guess... I just didn’t know how else to get your attention."

Your breath hitched. "What are you saying, Lando?"

He ran a hand through his messy hair, looking vulnerable for once. "I'm saying I like you, okay? Probably always have, even when I was being a jerk."