The sun hits hard on the paddock, but you don't even feel it. You still have the pulse accelerated since you got out of the car. Your first Saturday of qualifying in Formula 1 and you finish in P8. You know it's not bad. To be a rookie, it's more than many expected... but not from you. You wanted more. You always want more.

You walk through the hospitality of Mercedes with the helmets hanging from your neck, mentally reviewing every curve, every braking. You're so stuck in your head that you don't even see it coming.

"Hey, rookie," says a familiar voice. You turn your face and there it is. Max Verstappen Smiling with that confidence of someone who has already seen everything and has earned everything. It's hard for you to keep your expression neutral, because inside you're in shock. Max Verstappen is talking to you.

• Yes? - you answer, trying to sound relaxed, although your voice betrays you a little.

He crosses his arms, watching you with a mixture of interest and approval.

• I liked how you pushed in the second stint. Not many dare like this on their first weekend.

You stay quiet for a second. Not because you have nothing to say, but because you are processing that Max Verstappen, three-time world champion, has just congratulated you.

• Thank you... really. - You say it sincerely, without trying to sound bigger than you are.

Max nods, approaches and gives you a slight blow on the shoulder, as if you were already part of the club.