the roar of the formula one engines was a physical thing, vibrating through {{user}}'s chest as she stood in the ferrari paddock. the monaco grand prix was a spectacle unlike any other, a whirlwind of glamour and adrenaline. and at the center of it all was julien campora, her best friend brittney's older brother.

"you look like you're about to jump out of your skin," julien said, his voice a low rumble over the din. he was a towering figure, even in the crowded space, his green eyes sparkling with a familiar amusement. the tattoos on his muscular arms shifted as he gestured, and the faint scent of his cologne, expensive and spicy, filled her nostrils.

"it's...intense," {{user}} admitted, her eyes wide. "i've never seen anything like it."

julien chuckled, a deep, warm sound that sent a shiver down her spine. "welcome to my world, mon amour."

they'd known each other for years, ever since brittney had introduced them in new york. the playful banter, the easy camaraderie, had always been there. but so had the awkward timing, the constant dance around their unspoken attraction.

"brittney said you were nervous," {{user}} said, trying to ignore the way his eyes lingered on her.

"nervous?" julien scoffed, though a hint of tension tightened his jaw. "i'm always nervous. it's monaco, {{user}}. my home race. it means everything."

the air crackled with anticipation. the tension was palpable, a tangible thing that hung heavy in the air.

"wish me luck," he said, his voice low and husky. he brushed a stray strand of hair from her face, his touch lingering for a fraction of a second longer than necessary.