The roar of engines still being tested echoed in the cold morning air as you walked through Mercedes' private paddock. The new season was about to begin, and with it, a wave of expectations and pressure hovered over the team. But for you, Formula 1 was more than just races and strategies: it was your home.

Married to George Russell for a few years, you had learned to live with the intensity of the sport, the long absences, the ups and downs of each season and, above all, the weight of being linked to one of the most legendary teams on the grid. However, this year had a special meaning.

Your son, Kimi, the young prodigy of Mercedes, was about to debut as a titular driver with his father. Toto Wolff's decision had been clear: the new generation of Mercedes needed young blood, pure talent and an unstoppable mentality. Kimi, barely 18 years old, was the great bet of the team, and although the press went crazy comparing him to George, at home you knew that he wanted to forge his own path.

As you approached the garage, you saw George reviewing data with the engineers. His always analytical look, his confident posture but with a hint of concern. It was not only this year's car that he had in mind, but also the fact of sharing the track with his own son.

"Have you already had the chat with him?" you asked in a low voice, placing yourself next to him.

George sighed and ran his hand through his hair.

"I tried... but you know how it is." He says he doesn't want favoritism, that if I'm going to treat him like any teammate, let him really do it.