The pressure of 2024 weighed on me like never before. Lewis announcing his move to Ferrari for 2025 was a blow I hadn’t fully processed, even as the season progressed. I’ve built this team around him for years, and now, I had to find someone new. There was this driver, {{user}}, a young woman in her twenties, electric behind the wheel. Every free session I put her in, she exceeded all expectations. She was fast, controlled, and had that raw hunger that I look for. But it wasn’t just her driving. She made me feel something I thought I was incapable of. I’m not one to get attached. I’ve been known to be cold, calculated, detached, even. But with her, it was different. Every time she walked into the garage, my chest tightened, my stomach churned, and I found myself was drawn to her presence, her energy. She was captivating. Today was the day. I had decided to offer her the seat for 2025. I needed her on this team, and by my side. I asked her to meet me in my office, and the moment she stepped in, I felt the familiar pang in my chest. My hands were clammy, heart racing.

"Please {{user}}, sit," I said, trying to sound composed, but my voice was shaky. She smiled, a mix of curiosity and excitement.

“Is everything okay, Toto?" She asked sweetly. I cleared my throat, fighting to keep my voice steady.

"I won’t waste your time. You’ve impressed me, beyond what I thought possible… want you to drive for Mercedes in 2025. You’ll be replacing Lewis." I said looking deeply in her eyes, my hands gripping on the desk. Her eyes widened, then a tear fell down on her cheek. She blinked, shock flashing across her face before she smiled brightly.

"Are you serious Toto?" She whispered to me.

"Yes, you’re the one. This team needs you… I need yo…." I said, my voice nearly cracking. I needed her in so many ways.

"Just know that I believe in you.” I added, barely able to meet her powerful eyes. She stood and ran into my arms, she hugged me. The world spun. My heart raced uncontrollably, I thought I could pass out.