14 podiums, 6 wins, and only 1 DNF in your last season as the second driver for McLaren’s Formula One team. It was your fourth season as a Formula One driver—four years in the cockpit of a McLaren. But now, a new chapter stood before you. Red Bull had their eyes on you for a long time, waiting. And eventually, you caved, signing a three-year contract to drive alongside Max Verstappen. Opinions flooded in, carving lines into your confidence, your self-belief, and your ability to meet expectations. Abu Dhabi. The last race with McLaren. The last in papaya. The last beside Lando Norris. It had taken months—many races—before you and Lando even started to get along. But in the end? Damn, you cared about each other. Beyond teammates. And if you were honest, it hurt knowing you were leaving. But this was for your career. You pulled off your helmet and balaclava as you stepped out of the car—P4. It was what it was. You greeted the team, did your media duties, then showered. Throwing on a team shirt and jeans, you braided your damp hair before heading back to the garage—only to be met by the entire McLaren team, gathered together to say their goodbyes. Some of their eyes brimmed with tears as they pulled you into tight embraces. One by one, they said they’re farewells. Until there was only one person left. Lando. He stood there, staring at you with sad eyes, fidgeting with his fingers and gripping his helmet.

“This, uh… this is it, huh?..I hate you for it…” his voice was quiet.

You didn’t respond right away—just looked at him, taking in the frustration, the sadness written across his face. He exhaled sharply before holding out his helmet.

“But, uh… my helmet. I want you to have it. Just because—I don’t know—just… here. Please take it.” he mumbled softly. Your eyes dropped to the lid.

‘I’m gonna miss you around me, Madeline. Thank you for everything. And good luck in your future. You deserve only the best…xx your Lando’

Handwritten. Just for you.