skyespaddock - Tumblr blog

skyespaddock · 2 days ago

Text

You & I ✨ Chapter Eleven

Lando Norris x Madeline Green (ofc)

Summary- Madeline Green’s life has always been intertwined with Lando Norris. An invisible string has always tied them together, but what if they were meant to be more than friends?

What happens when the universe flips their lives upside down? One moment, one line crossed, and they are forever connected by more than just an invisible string.

Warnings- Friends to lovers, growing up together, parent with cancer, loss of parent, pregnancy, angst and a whole lot of fluff.

Notes- Giggling and kicking my feet, I love them so much. Pretty close to pure fluff chap as a reward for getting through the last few. As always share all your thoughts, I love reading them!! - Skye x

Series Masterlist

The icy hallway of the Mclaren Technology Center stretched like an endless silence. Its trophy-covered walls getting tighter as Madeline and Lando ventured further into its confines. She'd visited the team’s home base many times throughout the years, it was often a place of comfort. Somewhere she got to see Lando shine in his element.

Madeline would never forget the first time she stepped foot in MTC. When Lando was in his first month of working with the team, about to enter his first season as a Formula One driver. He pulled out all the stops to give her that first tour, an ordeal that took well over an hour because he insisted that she deserved the full history of every nook and cranny.

However the space felt different today, its white walls felt restrictive and too bright as they traveled further into the lakeside building. Each step brought them closer to the meeting room, and the anxiety filled discussion that would occur within its narrow suffocating walls.

After a night of comfort and cuddles Lando had gotten back to the team, passing on Madeline’s agreement to the meeting. Despite Lando assuring her hundreds of times that she didn't have to.

If Madeline was being honest, she would say the idea of sitting down with Lando’s team to discuss her baby made her anxious and angry all at once. She didn't understand why it was their business. Why they needed to have a whole sit down discussion on the existence of their child. But she forced herself to take a deep breath and a step back, told herself that refusing would only make things worse for Lando, and that was the last thing she wanted. So here she was. Madeline left work early for this, per Mclaren’s request to hold the meeting as soon as possible.

“It’s not too late to leave.” Lando whispered as they turned off into a darker, more narrow hallway, one that housed quiet offices and meeting spaces. “We could just run away, buy a house in Switzerland and raise an army of goats, I bet our kid would love that. We could have fat chickens as well.” Lando laughed.

“As appealing as that sounds right now, I know you wouldn't be truly happy with that.” Madeline smiled up at him. “Though the fat chickens sound nice, we could have fresh eggs.” She added.

“I’ll add that to the list then.” Lando sighed as they turned one last corner. This hallway was a dead end, leaving them with no choice but to turn into the small meeting room at the end of the hallway.

The room was lined with grey walls, the scratchy light carpet rustled beneath Madeline’s shoes as they crossed the threshold. Multiple sets of eyes rose to greet them. The walls were decorated with large canvases, each displaying wide pictures of Mclaren cars through the ages and iconic wins. She didn't care for the decor, Madeline’s main focus was on the large table in the center of the room, surrounded by big cushioned chairs and their occupant’s restless gazes.

“Lando, Madeline. Please take a seat.” Zak prompted. Gesturing to two side by side empty chairs.

The room buzzed with anticipation, tension so thick Madeline would need her heaviest kitchen knife to saw through it. Lando led her to one of the empty chairs, sending Zak a silent nod as his only greeting. Once she was seated, Madeline took a second to assess the other individuals dispersed around the room.

Zak occupied the chair across from her with a stiff Andrea positioned next to him. Accompanied by two nervous looking pr reps on either side of the table. Lando hadn't gone into much detail about what exactly occurred yesterday, but as she assessed each of their nervous gazes and fidgeting hands she could infer that it was not pretty.

“Thank you for agreeing to this meeting Madeline, we really appreciate it.” Zak started, voice tense as if he had to put conscious thought toward every individual syllable. She just nodded, neglecting to mention that she wasn't here for them, only Lando.

“First I want to make it clear that the team has zero intentions to make you do anything you don’t want to do, or do anything related to the baby that you don’t give approval on. This is purely just a precautionary meeting.” Zak leaned forward resting his elbow on the table beneath.

Madeline had no anger in her body for the man, not after everything he had done for Lando. He was always nice to her in the paddock and around the garage, letting her take peeks at the pit wall every now and then. Making sure she had everything she could ever want while within the Mclaren hospitality.

She actually really liked the man, but the serious undertones in his voice unsettled her. His words said that he wanted nothing to do with her and Lando’s baby and that she had the final say. But if that was really true, then why had they practically forced Lando to bring her along for this meeting.

Lando hadn't used the word forced, she knew he would likely never reveal what exactly transpired at Mclaren yesterday that caused him to return in the state he did, but it didn't encourage Madeline. Not one bit.

All eyes turned toward her, as if awaiting her approval to continue. To which she gave them a slight downturn of her head, barely a nod. That was all they would get from her.

One of the PR reps, a nervous looking woman Madeleine recognized from race weekends and tension filled press conferences, opened her mouth to continue the meeting.

If you asked Madeline to give a summary of what exactly the woman said, she wouldn't be able to tell you half of it. Not because she was trying to be rude but because her brain ran out of space to process. She simply nodded as dates, safety precautions, and guidelines were mentioned. They didn't push, true to Zak's word they left all final decisions about how they would announce their baby to the word up to Madeline and Lando. But they also didn't seem happy about the situation, not once during the meeting did anyone in the room congratulate either of them. Make any effort to make their situation seem like a joy filled surprise and not some pr nuisance they needed to work around.

Madeline had thoughts, many on the topic of the true terms of the team's support toward Lando but she didn't speak them. She bit her tongue, so hard she could almost taste the metallic run of blood. She wouldn't make this harder for Lando, she refused too. So Madeline instead settled for quietly lacing her fingers through his underneath the table. Tucked away for no one else to see. A private reprieve reserved for the two of them. A tether holding them together so the tension didn't sweep them away.

___

The small room emptied quickly. All its attendees anxious to be released from the confines of the stuffy room, but Madeline took her time. Stretching her back after way too long spent sitting, she smirked in victory as the soft pops of her back echoed in her ears. Taking Lando’s outstretched hand as he helped her out of the chair that had been her home far longer than she would have preferred.

The chairs surrounding the table were now empty, all of their occupants off to their next task as if the meeting was just another box to check. But one figure stayed behind. Looming by the door with cautious eyes.

She neared the door, ready to leap over the threshold and free herself from this room, instead coming face to face with Andrea Stella. The Italian gave her his best attempt at an easy smile, however she could see the underlying worry in his eyes. The man awkwardly shifted on his feet.

He hadn't said much during the meeting, slight head nods and occasional support were his only contributions over the past few hours.

Madeline watched him momentarily gaze over her shoulder where Lando stood, before tentatively speaking, “Mind if I walk you out?” The question was cautious as if expecting her to shoot him down instantly.

She didn't.

“Sure” her voice came out smaller than expected as Lando once again joined their hands. The three continued through the sterile walls of the MTC together.

They made it to the main hallway before anyone said anything. Andrea sighed, a short huff, before filling the silence “I know no one said it and I apologize, but congratulations. This is very exciting, for both of you. You two don’t deserve to be treated like your child is a burden before they are even born.”

Their collective pace slowed. Madeline took a moment to look at him, really look. Gazing into his eyes she saw it now, clear as day. Guilt.

“Thank you.” She responded lightly. Holding his gaze, wanting him to know how much she truly meant it.

“Zak doesn't mean to make you feel bad about it, not really. He’s just overwhelmed and while that doesn't excuse his behavior, he’ll come around. I know he will.” This time his words were directed to Lando. Who gave his boss a firm nod and a mumbled “thank you.”

The journey out of the Mclaren Technology Center felt much shorter than the one they took in, as they were soon greeted with the large glass exit door. Andrea turned to face them one last time, exhaling a long sigh. Releasing his shoulders from their tight laced position at his ears. “You two take care, I hope to see you again soon Madeline.” He disappeared back down the hall as his parting words fizzled out. As if he was never there. But his words stuck. They stayed in the air like a thick promise.

His words were small, they held no promises. But they still meant everything to Madeline.

Someone supported them, was in their corner. Andrea may have waited the entire meeting to express those feelings, but for now it would have to do. She felt lighter leaving the meeting, knowing that Lando at least had one person in his corner. One member of his team that saw him as a human and not just a piece of their puzzle.

___

After anxious hours spent in the suffocating confines of that small room, they were finally free. Returned to the safe leather seats of Lando’s Mclaren.

“I thought that was never going to end.” Madeline breathed as she settled back into the seat, its soft leather cradling her tense body.

“You and me both.” Lando replied, sparing her secured seatbelt a quick glance before wasting zero time in getting them out of there. A quick escape back to the main road.

“That went better than I thought it would, all things considered.” Madeline concluded. “Took a little longer than I would have liked, but at least it's done.” She sighed, sinking deeper into her seat.

“I would have preferred to not have to go through it at all.” Lando huffed, reached across the counsel to hold her hand. Just like he had throughout the entire meeting. “I feel like I need a vacation after that shit.”

“You and me both, if I ever hear the words preventative measures again it will be too soon.” She sighed, looking out the window. Taking in the darkening countryside passing freely outside the window. Trees blurring before her eyes, sparing her nothing but a passing glance.

“What if we did?” Lando suggested, momentarily taking his eyes off the road. Turning to spare her a moment of gentle eye contact. “What if we escaped one last time before the season starts, just you, me and your tiny passenger.” He added the last addition with a light smile that sparkled as it reached his eyes. “We can go to Monaco, stay at my place. Do nothing but cuddle and eat, I’ll even let you bring your laptop, for half work days only.” He added with a laugh, playfully tapping his finger over hers.

“Only half days?” Madeline asked with a sly smile.

“Don’t push your luck.” Lando gave her hand a loving squeeze.

She tilted her head, pretending to ponder his conditions. “I think you have yourself a deal Mr. Norris.” Madeline concluded with a laugh. One that released the last flecks of lingering tension from their earlier meeting. She felt lighter as it released itself from its holding place in her shoulders. The mussels rolling back in ease, no longer needed to hold the heavy weight. Not around Lando.

“Always a pleasure doing business with you Ms. Green.” Her smiley boy grinned, bringing her hand up to his lips, sealing their deal with a kiss.

___

The change wasn't hard or fast, her body didn't drastically shift over night, not that Madeline imagined it would. There was nothing physically noticeable, it didn't scream, no flashing light blinked over her head announcing it to the world.

Madeline knew what it was, but not through signs. The only reminder of today’s significance came from a buzzing notification on her phone, the pregnancy app she still used reminding her what day it was.

It was a workday first and foremost. Madeline was about to work her last in person day at the office before taking a leave of absence to work from her computer while she ran away with Lando to Monaco. But that wasn't it, wasn't worthy of this level of celebration. No.

Today marked the end of her first trimester. Thirteen weeks ticked off, now a thing of the past. Thirteen weeks of her life, more importantly the first thirteen weeks of her baby’s existence.

Thirteen weeks of tired muscles, and nauseous nightmares were now over. Madeline prayed the nausea would release her from its violent grip once and for all.

Every pregnancy book and informational article led the expecting mother to believe that the second trimester would gift a corner of her spark back. Madeline wasn't expecting a miracle, after all she was still growing a human. But she was hopeful the baby would at least grant her the small luxury of keeping most of her food down.

As Madeline rolled out of bed, an action done on her own accord and not in a mad dash to the bathroom, she was hopeful. Hopeful that things would be better this trimester. Better with her body, better with her energy but also better with Lando.

They had a firm foundation, had learned to communicate, step up for each other in times of need. Things were looking up, Madeline could finally see the horizon, the future she so desperately wanted. Her, Lando, and their baby, all one happy family. It was in reach.

If she made it through those first thirteen weeks she could make it through the rest, whatever the approaching months threw at her, she was ready.

___

The airplane hummed, a dim lull dampening Madeline’s busy senses, allowing her to curl deeper into the cozy cushion of the sleek airplane seat. Eyes soft but focused on the laptop screen propped comfortably on her lap. Blue light illuminating the shadows of her face.

No work stared back at her. No client emails, no spreadsheets. Madeline’s chosen airplane activity until her and Lando arrived in Nice was once again, baby research.

This time her hyperfixation of choice was not cribs but instead car seats. Her research went deeper than simply browsing the newest styles and safety features, much, much deeper. Madeline once again had more tabs open than she could count. Filled with articles addressing topics from car seat installation, safety, appropriate fit and comfort for infants, and the best fit for her car.

Madeline would be lying if she said she wasn't anxious about the little details of having a child, of being a mother. She was incapable of shaking the feeling that she was way out of her depth. About to enter a club that she didn't belong in, the club of motherhood. Madeline didn't know a thing about being a mother.

She told herself these were normal new parent worries, that anyone in her situation would feel nervous about the small details of their babies safety and well being. But she knew that wasn't all, there was one small speckle of a detail that made her anxiety run deeper.

One that wasn't so small after all. The mother sized hole in her heart was anything but small, because that's what it always came back to. Her mother.

Madeline missed Aurora Green, desperately. She would never stop longing for her presence. Looking for her in every room, despite knowing she would never see the soft smile she treasured endlessly ever again.

In reality Madeline knew there was little her mother could tell her about the safety of car seats. In fact if she were here the woman would likely tell Madeline to order the newest model and call it a day.

Same with the crib and all the other baby essentials that induced ten too many headaches. It was unlikely that her mother would tell her anything groundbreaking that hours of google searches couldn't.

But the issue for Madeleine was that she wasn't given the choice. She didn't have the option of asking her mother, of going to the woman who raised her for advice. Instead being sentenced to asking the internet all her many burning questions. Google didn't smile kindly while educating her on the structural integrity of car seats, or hold her hand while advising her on the many highs and lows of breast feeding.

Madeline was a grown woman, she could do things on her own. Didn't need someone to hold her hand. But it would be nice to have someone with her, someone who had been in her shoes and made it to the other side successfully.

She craved the validation and opinion of a mother, her mother and every moment, every google search spent alone, reminded her further that she didn't have that. Her heart cracked just at the thought, at the painful reminder.

A gentle hand rose to her shoulder, smoothing small circles across the sweatshirt covered skin, the sensation drew her from her crashing thoughts. Wild curls leaded over her, sliding their way into view, obstructing her search tab filled computer screen.

‘You know, I bought you wifi so you could browse baby furniture catalogues, not psycho analyze car seats. Mads your computer has so many tabs open it's about to explode.”

“I’m researching.” She defended, taking a small break to nuzzle her head into the crook of Lando’s neck. The warm skin below his hoodie too enticing to pass up.

“No Mads” a hand moved to cup her head, fingers gently massaging her scalp in a beautiful display of affection. “Reaserch is one tab not fifty. I’m overwhelmed just looking at it.”

He curiously reached over, scrolling through the many, many tabs. “Jesus. It's a carseat Mads, not a dissertation.”

“Yeah a carseat that could potentially save our child’s life Lan, that's important.” She whined to her boyfriend who clearly didn't share her sentiment for extensive research.

“First the crib, now this. Should I be worried about you?” He asked, pressing a kiss to her hairline, before placing a second on her furrowed brow.

If Madeline was being honest she would say yes. Honestly he probably should be. But there was nothing Lando could do for her except feel guilty. He couldn't bring her mother back from the grave just so Madeline could ask her about car seats and infant safety. So once again she settled for denial. “No, I’m just a little anxious that's all.” Madeline hummed into his warm embrace.

“Okay.” He whispered, his tone sounding not quite convinced. “That's enough research for today baby, before your exploding laptop takes the whole plane down.” He calmly reached over to shut the lid of her laptop, hiding all mentions of carseats from sight. “We’ll be there soon, and it’ll just be you and me Mads.”

She hummed in content, suddenly a lot calmer in his arms. “You're forgetting someone important.” Her words came out a mumbled mess of syllables blending with the background hum.

Lando sighed in mock disapproval, catching his own slip up. “How dare I forget our newest member.” He guided a warm hand to reach between them, grazing the still bump free skin of her stomach. Another detail that sparked nerves deep in the walls of Madeline’s mind.

There was no sure way to know how long she would have until the bump would begin to reveal itself. Google seemed to give her a different answer every time she asked. But her doctor had assured her everything was fine. That it was completely normal for first time mothers to take longer to show. That Madeline had nothing to worry about.

The sentiment was reassuring coming from her doctor, someone who was highly educated and capable of telling her everything was medically fine. But Madeline would have still preferred them from her mother. Reassurance always reached deeper into her tunnel of anxiety when it came from the woman who taught her to love, nothing would ever change that. Not even the woman’s permanent absence from the physical world.

___

Madeline might have not wished to call Monaco her home, but that didn't mean the soft sunlight gracing her skin as she was calmly released from sleep’s grasp went unappreciated. It kissed her skin in all the right places, keeping her heart warm long after she exited the protection of Lando’s bed.

She was milling around the bathroom. The clean space was taken over by her skincare essentials. It was simple, something so small most people wouldn't stop to notice, to cherish. But there was something about Madeline’s things intertwined with Lando’s that she would never get over.

Her toothbrush rested in the porcelain holder next to his, the two making perfect companions. Her skincare had been compiled into a neat corner next to his single bottle of face wash. Madeline’s choice of perfume sat hip to hip with Lando’s cologne. His deep Ralph Lauren scent sat beside the light floral Chanel bottle he had gifted her.

Madeline was so engrossed in assessing the space around her, the one that had become half her half Lando, that she neglected to assess herself in the wide mirror that reflected the world back at her.

Warm hands wrapped around her body, their tan somehow still preserved, even in the dead of winter. Two protective palms came to rest on her stomach, the skin bare save for the small tank top that cut off just above her navel.

“You’re showing.” Lando’s voice vibrated against her collarbone, as he mumbled the words into her skin. Voice still thick with sleep.

Madeline took a moment to process the words, understand what they meant. A moment to pull herself out of the blissful paradise of his arms. She needed to pull herself away from thoughts of toothbrushes and perfumes sitting so close they nearly merged as one.

Madeline’s head tilted downwards, a motion performed so fast it nearly made her dizzy. There wasn't much to see, only the veins of Lando’s hands stretched around her skin. She lifted them, just for a moment releasing herself from his grip. Turning to the side, assessing eyes scanning every inch of her body through the mirror, taking more time than ever on her midsection.

Her breath hitched as she saw it. It was subtle, so small that Madeline would almost write it off as the same bloating that often occurred in the evenings. Only it was first thing in the morning, the light pastel glow painted outside the window proved that.

This wasn't bloating, or a small fluke, no. This was her baby, their baby. Finally revealing their tiny existence. Lando was right, she was showing.

How he noticed before her, she didn't know. But he was right, the small bump now present on her stomach proved just that.

She tore her eyes away from the mirror, away from their baby who was still safe and sound. Madeline’s gaze met Lando’s, only to find the ladder already looking at her, flickers of tears welling within his eyes. She lightly dusted the pads of her thumbs over his under eyes. Tracing the soft sleep dazed skin as if she hadn't already memorized every crevasse of his body.

“That’s them.” She whispered in awe. “Thats our baby.”

“Yeah” Lando’s hands once again reached down to trace the skin of her stomach. Before shifting downward, one knee hitting the bathroom tiles, the other following only a moment later. Bringing him face to face with her small, barely noticeable bump.

Was it normal to shed tears over the tiniest change? Madeine supposed she didn't care if it wasn't.

“Hey, baby” Lando’s low, soothing voice whispered again. This time not to address her, but their baby. “I love you” he placed a soft kiss just below her belly button, hands delicately placed on her hips, moving the waistband of her sleep shorts down by just the smallest margin. “So, so much.” He repeated the action, this time with a kiss above her navel.

Madeline’s heart glowed at the sight of the man she loved on his knees before her, whispering the sweetest affirmations to their unborn baby.

She wasn't even sure if they could hear yet, if they could register the sound of their father’s voice. However Madeline hoped they could feel what she did, that they could feel his love for them, that he would do anything to keep them safe, protect them.

___

Madeline knew cravings, through years of late night uni cravings after hours locked in a library to the most violent of period cravings, she thought she had seen it all. Turns out wanting a little something sweet after a heavy flow day was no match to the hard and heavy punch that was pregnancy cravings. No matter how much she tried, she always ended up giving in eventually.

It started slow and steady, a whisper of a voice saying you should really have chicken nuggets and a milkshake right now. Madeline tried to brush it off, typical pregnancy cravings hitting her when she least expected. She had grown accustomed to them by now. Sugar, carbs, greasy food. She had craved it all.

Perhaps she had been hopeful in thinking it would go away. She should have known better, but she tried to ignore it anyway, thinking it would eventually fade into the background of her mind. Sad to say Madeline was wrong, very, very wrong.

The craving had only grown as the hours passed, evolving into a grouchy monster that could only be pleased by fried food. Mcdonalds to be exact, nothing else would do.

“Mad’s its eleven o'clock at night.” Lando whined from where he laid, moments away from going to bed. Clothed in nothing but boxers already under the all encompassing safety of the dim bedroom lights and soft duvet.

“Landooooo, please.” Madeline pounced on top of him, now resorting to shamelessly begging her boyfriend to bringing her what she so violently craved. Her cravings didn't care that it was late at night or that she would likely regret eating a heavy greasy meal by morning. The baby wanted what it wanted, and right now that was Mcdonalds.

“Madelineee.” Lando moaned into his pillow. “If I get it for you, will you go to bed and stop begging?”

The girl instantly piped up, pleased by his surrender. “Yes, yes. I promise.”

He sighed heavily, regretfully flopping out of his cozy cocoon to grab a hoodie and sweats. “Okay fine, but don't ever tell me I don't love you and that crazy passenger of yours.” His voice was slightly agitated but his eyes gave away his true emotions. Amusement, pure gleeful amusement.

“Don’t forget the milkshake!” She called after him. Earning a soft confirmation before the door to Lando’s apartment clicked shut, the deadbolt locking her safely inside.

___

The journey from Lando’s apartment to the nearest McDonalds was a short one. One that would take twenty minutes tops to leave and return, greasy food in tow.

But the photos were already posted when he returned and as Madeline finished the last bites of her heavenly fast food meal the top Instagram gossip pages had already picked it up. It was growing at lightning speed. For great reason.

“I am never doing that again, next time you’re going to have to settle for delivery.” Lando threw his phone down, his body following shortly after, dramatically flopping on the bed next to her.

His phone bounced once, twice before landing face up. The picture in question perfectly centered in Madeline's line of sight. The cause for all this drama.

It was a clear shot. Taken by a fan or another Monaco resident. Lando was the star of the shot, front and center as he walked out of Mcdonalds. With a large paper takeaway bag containing enough food to feed a small army and vanilla milkshake in hand.

There was nothing notably outrageous about the picture, other than the caption outing the pro athlete for ordering a mountain of food from McDonald's at eleven o'clock at night.

“It’s hilarious Lan.” Madeline laughed, stomach hurting from how hilarious she found the whole ordeal.

“It’s been less than an hour and it’s already everywhere.” Lando groaned into his pillow for the second time that night. “Ugh, the things I do for you. Did you at least enjoy it?” He pulled his head out of the soft cushion to gaze at her. Not true annoyance lived in his features, just love. A love that was worth getting publicly embarrassed over.

“It was the best thing I’ve had all week. Baby says thank you.” She added as, polishing off the last drops of her milkshake.

“Okay, then I guess it was worth becoming a viral meme over.” Lando sighed, placing a loving hand over her barely present bump. A touch that felt normal, safe, and full of unrelenting love.

___

Thunder crackled in a booming symphony against the company of cascading rain falling into the Mediterranean sea like a gentle gift. Madeline watched each drop as it fell, transported from the full grey clouds onto the Monaco view that stretched before her eyes.

Despite the raging storm beneath, Madeline was shielded from harm, protected by the covered terrace. Cozy on the outdoor couch in the comfort of one of Lando’s Mclaren sweatshirts and soft pajama pants to cover her delicate skin. Hands settled safely on the small bump of her stomach, Madeline was at peace, protected by the rain.

The sliding of the glass door pulled her attention from the security of the rainstorm.

“Figured I’d find you out here.” Lando dropped a warm, soft blanket over her shoulders. Moving to join her. Pressing a kiss on her forehead, hand brushing gently across hers, over her stomach. A greeting to both her and the life beneath.

“It’s a good one today.” She hummed in content, dropping her head to rest on his shoulder. A space that was sacred, always safe.

Madeline’s mind was always drawn to her mother, she saw her in the rain, in watching mothers laugh with their daughters, even in her own reflection. Knowing that she was going to become a mother herself to a beautiful child awoke a deep longing for her own.

There were so many things she wanted to ask her.

Like what kind of crib is the safest?

What do you need to pack in a hospital bag?

How do you stop throwing up at the smell of coffee?

How do you mentally cope with your body changing during pregnancy?

All things that google or her doctor could give her the answer too, but it wasn't the same. She wanted her mother because she would have wanted to be there. Would have loved to be there.

“What's going on in that beautiful head of yours?” Another delicate kiss graced her forehead.

“I just-I miss her so much.” She choked. Tears pricking her eyes. “This is something daughters picture going through with the support of their mothers. There’s so many things I wish I could ask her. I have no clue what I’m doing-and I’m scared.” Tears now streamed down her face as she hiccuped.

Lando didn't try to stop her. Just tightened his grip around her as if to say I’m here.

“I just want my mom, and I miss her so much.” Her tears rained onto Lando’s sweatshirt-clad shoulder, a perfect match to the rain falling onto the Monaco streets. Forming small puddles below, reminding her of the ones she used to play in with her mother on stormy days just like this one.

“Does this have anything to do with your obsessive research?” Lando gently asked, voice soft as if he didn't want to push her too far. Pry too deep into her anxious mind.

He was spot on, he always was when it came to her. In most cases Lando could read her emotions better than she could. A magical gift she would never understand but would always be grateful for.

“Yeah-yeah I think that is why.” She mumbled into him, as if she could crawl into his skin and never have to feel stress. Never have to violently miss her mother again. Just be forever safe in his embrace. “I just wish she was here, to see me. To help me through what happens next. I know it’s pathetic.”

“It’s not pathetic Mads, it’s completely valid. If I could get her to you I would. I may not be able to bring your mom back, but I can lend you mine. She can keep you company while I’m away, I can arrange for her to stay with you when you need someone when I’m gone. You can ask her anything, she’s had four kids, she's seen it all.” Lando reassured.

“Really?” She tilted her head up, placing a gentle kiss against his stubble lined jaw. “You would do that?”

“I would do anything to make this easier for you. I miss her too, I like to imagine what she would think of this. Me and you. She’d be proud of you. So proud Mad’s, just like I am.”

Lando was right, he couldn't bring her mother back, nothing could. But he was doing his best to make her as comfortable as possible.

They sat there, intertwined with the soft patter of rain as pleasant company. She didn't know how to be a mom or how to raise a child, but she knew that she would teach them to love the rain.

Just as her mother had taught her.

___

“Is this entirely necessary?” Lando questioned for what had to be the fifth time within the last ten minutes.

“Yes, yes it is.” Madeline responded simply. “Now give me your hand again. I need to see what this one looks like.” She directed her boyfriend. Softly grabbing his wrist, bringing his hand before her once more. Taking a moment to assess the now colorful skin on the flip side of his palm before finding a free spot and filling it with yet another lipstick swatch.

“Are you gonna buy any of these, or did you just drag me in here to use me as your personal lipstick canvas?” Lando sighed, his voice holding no true frustration. The amused smile on his face gave away his true feelings toward their current situation. Despite all his whining complaints, Lando was enjoying this.

“I need to see what they look like.”

“Can you not do that on your own hands?” Lando laughed, gesturing to her clean, pristine swatch free hands.

“I like using your hands better. There's more space.” Madeline replied, full focus narrowed in on analyzing the most recent shade she had decorated the back of her boyfriend's hand with. Sighing in approval before adding it to the slowly filling basket that Lando was also carrying for her.

“Plus this ensures that you stay with me. I don’t want you getting lost again.” She added with an amused smirk.

“That was one time, and I was only lost for a minute.”

“Lan, you called me in a panic asking where I was.” She laughed looking up at him. “I was right behind you.”

“I don’t like this conversation anymore.” Lando pouted. “Are you done using me or are you moving to my arms next?”

“You are free of your duties sir.” Madeline moved towards the checkout counter of the small Monegasque beauty store. Reaching to grab her basket from Lando so that she could purchase her new products.

Only for the basket to be swiftly removed from her reach, fingertips just barely grazing the outside edge as Lando relocated the basket to the hand furthest from her. His other hand intertwining with hers. Keeping it occupied so it wouldn't attempt to snatch the basket again.

“Nice try, pretty girl, this one's on me.” Lando laughed, pressing a kiss to her hair.

“But that's my stuff." She argued, hoping Lando wasn't seriously misjudging how much makeup cost these days. “And it’s expensive, let me do it.”

“I don't care.” He reiterated, greeting the beautiful woman at the checkout counter with a polite smile before handing over his card.

Madeline blinked at the ease by which he cared for her, as if it was as simple as breathing for him.

“You didn't have to do that.” She said again as they returned to the sunny winter Monaco streets.

“I know,” he hummed. “I wanted to.”

It was their last full day in the principality, their last full day together before Lando would return back to his life as an every busy Formula One driver. He would drop her back in the UK, make sure she was settled before a quick turn around to Bahrain for pre-season testing. They would spend barely over a week apart before being reunited for the race weekend.

A week was minuscule compared to their months spent apart when she was still in school and he was fighting for a place in the rapidly evolving motorsport world. As selfish as it sounded Madeline wasn't ready to give him up, not when many hard months of pregnancy loomed before her like mountains to climb.

They continued their journey through the afternoon streets, arms linked, keeping them intertwined and grounded in the safety of each other. As they traveled further from the busy tourist streets filled with shops and eager customers, their surroundings quieted. Bustling streets now replaced with calm empty roads.

As a small gust of wind whipped cold air into their faces Madeline leaned further into Lando. His body heat offering her a quiet reprieve, a soft protection from the elements.

“So-” Madeline hummed. “I’ve been thinking about the meeting with Mclaren-” her words instantly caught the drivers attention. Causing his gaze to snap down towards her. Breath momentarily shuddering.

Madeline picked up on his anxiety sparked by the mention of the meeting, she could sympathize with him. Her heart rate picked up every time she thought about the fact that their personal lives, their baby could become public knowledge at the drop of a hat.

She gave him a light squeeze in reassurance that this wouldn't be a heavy conversation and it wouldn't end in an argument. Not today, they were past that.

“I’ve just- I’ve been thinking about the media and about us.” She paused momentarily, gaze rising to look at the clear blue skies above. Before diverting to the curly haired boy eagerly waiting for her to continue. “I think we should only give away the information we want to, keep things private- but that doesn't necessarily mean things have to be a secret.”

For the second time in the short conversation, Lando’s breath hitched, but he let her continue, knowing she was not yet done voicing her thoughts.

“I don’t want it to be loud. It doesn't need to be when people already expect we’re together, but I think we should confirm that we’re together, you and me.”

She waited. Silence consumed them, a soft one this time. One free of tension, like the air was resting. Giving them this small break to breathe.

“I think-” Lando’s arm moved completely around her shoulder, pulling her impossibly closer while maintaining their calm stroll. “That, that’s a great idea Mads.” He affirmed with a kiss to her forehead, the action and approval bringing a smile to her face.

“I agree, I don’t want it to be loud. With you it doesn't need to be. We could do it at Bahrain, arrive in the paddock hand in hand. No big announcement, that's all the world needs to know.” Lando suggested and Madeline’s heart sang at the fact that they were on the same page. Finally.

“That way, when it comes time for the world to know about the baby, it’s a little less out of the blue.” Madeline concluded her train of thought.

Lando nodded alongside her in approval. “One step at a time Mads, you’re doing great. Just remember, you don't owe them anything okay. Not the media, not the team. Don’t let them influence your decisions about this.”

“I won’t.” Madeline nodded. She meant it, she really did.

Making things official to the media was the first step. One that would make things easier for them, they wouldn't have to resist staring into each other's souls when they found themselves on Max’s stream. They wouldn't have to resist kissing in parc ferme after Lando had a good race. They wouldn't have to hide, and that in itself took a load off Madeline’s shoulders.

One that left more room for excitement, for the baby, for her and Lando’s future. For everything that was yet to come. Even the unknown.

99 notes · View notes

skyespaddock · 5 days ago

Text

You & I ✨ Chapter Ten

Lando Norris x Madeline Green (ofc)

Summary- Madeline Green’s life has always been intertwined with Lando Norris. An invisible string has always tied them together, but what if they were meant to be more than friends?

What happens when the universe flips their lives upside down? One moment, one line crossed, and they are forever connected by more than just an invisible string.

Warnings- Friends to lovers, growing up together, parent with cancer, loss of parent, pregnancy, angst and a whole lot of fluff.

Notes- As promised this one is a lot less traumatic (your welcome💕) As always feed me with all your thoughts/theories, they really make my day! -Skye x

Series Masterlist

Madeline’s fingers spread to cover the timid expanse of Lando’s anxiously bouncing knee. Squeezing once, twice, before softly resting. Offering a gentle lifeline. Partially to support him, but also to calm the small earthquake he was causing with the rapid shaking.

The material of his sweatpants acted as a soft cushion beneath her dry fingertips as she provided another gentle squeeze on the inside of his knee.

The lights of the prenatal clinic were bright. Not in the sunny afternoon way that graced her currently pale skin, but instead in an artificial fluorescent way that bugged her senses. Fortunately the bright lights no longer caused a violent ringing between Madeline’s ears. She was declared officially concussion free as of yesterday. A diagnosis that did very little to fend off Lando’s protectiveness. The same boy who nearly made her wear sunglasses into the clinic.

“Lando, there is nothing to worry about, you’re more anxious about this than me.” Madeline softly reassured, a slow smile emerging on her lips at the boy’s adorably persistent worry.

This appointment was also the result of Lando’s unrelenting concern for her safety. He had made it himself, wanting another opinion on the safety of their baby following her traumatic fall. Apparently the opinion of a hospital full of trained professionals did not please him.

Despite knowing her passenger was safe and sound, Madeline didn't put up a fight. She understood that the entire debacle had thrown him for a loop and she would do anything to reassure him. Take just the tiniest bit of weight off his heavy shoulders. Even if that meant getting up at the crack of dawn for a last minute appointment.

“I just want to see them, hear their heartbeat. I just need proof.” His shaking knee halted as the anxious boy opted to fiddle with her fingers instead. Running his own over the curves and ridges of her knuckles as if mapping out a track. Committing each corner and chicane to his beautiful memory. “You didn't see yourself in that state, not like I did. I just- I’ll be fine after I see them.”

“Okay Lan” She whispered, leaning over to place a firm but loving kiss on his forehead. “Then let's go say hi to them again.” She smiled. No more pushing, no arguments about being overbearing. This was how they moved forward, by understanding, by listening. Madeline would do that for him, to the best of her ability.

___

The ultrasound room was dark, but not silent. No, far from it.

The steady sound of a heartbeat filled the room. Not hers. Not Lando’s. Not even the kind ultrasound tech’s who was smiling too big for how early in the morning it was.

Their babies' heartbeat echoed off the thin walls, strong, unrelenting, safe.

At nearly eleven weeks their baby's heartbeat beat was strong, the sound bouncing off the walls of her mind, hitting her straight in the heart. Safe, their baby was safe.

She glanced at Lando, gauging his reaction. The look on his face matched hers, happiness, overwhelmed by love. But most of all, relief. Relief so strong she spotted small salty tears welling in the corners of his eyes.

“See?” Madeline whispered, selfishly pulling his hand to bring him closer. “They are just fine.”

“Because they’re strong." He looked away from the image of their baby, a slightly bigger blob than the last time they saw them. Turning to meet her eyes, before placing a kiss on her forehead. A sure, knowing kiss. “Strong and stubborn, just like their mother.”

___

Two ultrasound photos were now displayed on the previously unoccupied fridge. Madeline’s first order of business upon arriving back home was to pin the new picture there, in its rightful spot beside the first one. Giving it a friend, a companion.

Stepping back to access her work, Madeline couldn't draw her eyes away from the pair of black and white pictures.

“I can’t believe they’ve grown so much already.” Madeline spoke in awe, looking down at her stomach. Zero evidence of the baby in the ultrasound existed from the outside. Nothing visible at least. But Madeline could feel the slight tightness of her stomach against her favorite pair of jeans and the heavier weight of her hips. It was only a matter of time. It was only a matter of days, weeks, till the changes began to occur.

“I can't believe we made that.” Lando padded into the kitchen on sock covered feet, moving to stand next to her, eyes locked on the same scene. “I hope they have your eyes.”

“Are you kidding, they better have your eyes, and your hair.”

“You don’t want a blonde baby?”

“I don't really mind the color, but I love your curls. Even if it means spending hours styling two sets of curls.” She smiled at the thought of taming a small unruly head of curls to match the ones of the boy she loved to the deepest depths of the earth.

“Okay, well then I want them to have your nose.” Lando laughed, pulling his eyes from their baby to meet hers.

“I do have a nice nose.” Madeline agreed, earning a playful slap on the shoulder, and a gorgeous laugh from her boy beside her.

“On a more serious note-” Lando moved around the kitchen, turning the kettle on and preparing the breakfast that she previously skipped due to the early appointment. “Are you sure you're ready to go back to work tomorrow?”

The question didn't agitate Madeline, not the way it would have a few weeks ago. She knew it wasn't a question of her character, of her strength. It was just care, a steady lifeline, a soft place to break her fall if she needed. She now saw it for what it was, love. Pure as gold.

“I’m okay Lan, I promise.” She nodded, voice soft and reassuring but honest.

She took a deep breath to prepare, and a slow exhale to release herself. “I’m talking to my boss tomorrow, about the pregnancy and eventual maternity leave, so he can get it on schedule.” She took one more deep breath, as Lando buttered her toast, just the way she liked it. She never had to tell him, he just knew. “I’m going to talk to him about taking a step back. Taking some of my work from home, just like we talked about.”

Lando paused, setting the knife down for just a moment, before directing his attention to her once more. “I’m proud of you.”

She felt the praise deep in her stomach, a fluttering feeling. Too soon to be anything but butterflies. The four words hit her harder than expected.

The longer Madeleine let the thought of taking a healthy step back from work marinate, the better she felt about it. She used to tie herself to her work, in all truth a part of her still did. But the thought of loosening her grip, allowing herself a life outside of that stuffy office became more appealing. The idea of allowing the corners of her life to soften brought a smile to her face.

Madeline wasn't giving up, she still loved her job. It would always remain her dream career. Only now that dream had the company of new glowing dreams. Ones bursting full of love, adventure, her child, and most of all Lando.

Madeline was growing, and her goals were growing right along with her and the thought of change didn't make her want to turn and run. Not this time, not anymore.

___

The walls were white, a perfect match to the long hallways. Everything looked the exact same as it had for the past three years Madeline called the sophisticated high rise office her job.

Madeline’s pristine office looked just as it had a week and a half ago. The empty pink Worlds Best Accountant mug sat on the corner of her desk, a gift from Pietra for Christmas. Miscellaneous pens were still sprawled around her work space, awaiting their commander's return. In the middle of it all sat her computer, the home of all her thoughts, work, and spreadsheets. Oh how she missed and hated them at the same time.

She stepped inside, not bothering to shut the door behind her, before setting her bag on the plush desk chair that still managed to give her back problems and turned to exit the room. There was one more thing to be done before her day's work could begin.

The white door at the end of the long sterile hallway looked the same as it ever did. The same as when she received her first big girl job, then her first big promotion. With the same metallic CEO plaque neatly mounted on the wall beside it. Now she walked the same steps, but this time they led her elsewhere, not quite away from what she worked so hard toward, just closer to what she needed, what she was meant for.

The man behind the desk looked the same, with the same clean pressed suit and welcoming smile. “Madeline, we are so glad to have you back, please take a seat.” Her boss gestured to the same empty chair in front of his desk. “I hope you are feeling better my dear, you gave us a big scare.”

“I am, thank you.” Madeline smiled, tightly crossing her legs. Hands moving to smooth the material of her pants, desperate for something to do.

“So please, what did you wish to talk to me about?” Her boss’s eyes were bright, smile wide in a way that made her wonder why she ever found this man intimidating in the first palace. Madeline just hoped he looked at her the same after hearing what she was about to tell him.

She sat up straight, shoulders rolling back, commanding her voice to escape her lips smooth and confident. “I wanted to talk about my position, about my hours in the office to be exact.” She looked the man in the eyes.

“I am so thankful for this job, for the position of head of department. Only recent circumstances in my life have changed.” Deep breaths Madeline, you can do this. She repeated the encouragement in her head, over and over until she began to believe it.

“I’m pregnant." The words fell from her lips a soft admission. Another person knew, this time not friends or family. That made it seem more real, not just something on the horizon but an active event.

She blinked hoping her boss’s eyes weren't blazing when she opened them. Only to find them smiling proudly back at her. “Thats wonderful Madeline.”

A sigh of relief eased from where it was previously lodged in her lungs. “Thank you. I just need a bit of a shift. I love being head of department, I’m still willing to work hard for you, to give you my best. I just need a small step back, a little less time in the office.”

Another breath trapped itself in her lungs, anxious for the man’s reaction. Would he decline her? Tell her it was all or nothing and fire her?

“Madeline.” The man let out a sigh of laughter. “I would never expect you to spend as much time in the office as you used to. There is not a single person in this firm who deserves the head of department role more than you do. I don’t care whether you work from home or the office. Or whether you work here five days a week or two.”

Madeline found herself smiling at his praise, realizing she had nothing to fear.

“I can get someone else to help you, lighten the load just a little. It’s okay to ask for help, I would never ask you to do this all by yourself.”

There it was again, those same words. It’s okay to ask for help.

Madeline replayed them over and over throughout the day. As she walked back to her office, as she greeted her co-workers, as she ate yet another lunch Lando had delivered for her.

It’s okay to ask for help. Madeline was starting to believe those words, she really, really was.

___

February fourteenth, otherwise known as Valentine's day. A day of love and celebration. Characterized by spending time with one's partner. Madeline was ecstatic to spend her first Valentines day with Lando.

Her excitement lasted for all of ten seconds until she realized that February fourteenth was also the faithful day Mclaren chose to reveal their new livery ahead of the 2024 season. A choice that grumpy Madeline had no issue expressing her distaste with. However her pushback only earned her laughs and a soft you’re adorable from Lando.

So that morning the two went their separate ways after a brief breakfast and mumbled I love you’s within the warm, safe cocoon of her bed.

Madeline was off to work like any other Monday morning. Only now the stack of files on her desk was smaller, half of what it was prior to the conversation with her boss. One of her co-workers had been moved up to assist her, a kind man Madeline had worked with her entire time with the firm. It was nice to have help, an extra set of eyes. Someone to lighten the load.

In fact her load lightened so much that she walked out of the office just as her clock flashed 5pm. With zero worries of leaving unfinished work behind for tomorrow's Madeline.

She didn't arrive home exhausted like she had for months prior, only hungry for her post diner cookies.

As she pulled into the driveway, her lights illuminated an extra car, an unexpected car. Madeline blinked, previous her would think she was hallucinating, but she was nowhere near tired enough for that. She blinked again, the car was in fact still present. Like it belonged there. Like it wasn't some mysterious appearance.

Madeline wracked her mind for who the owner of this car could possibly be. They weren't expecting guests. Max’s car was gone signaling that he and Pietra had left for their date. Lando’s car was secured right in front of her. So who’s car was this?

She assessed the sleek grey Mercedes SUV, trying to recall anyone she knew who drove the car. Its shine was deafening, almost as if it was brand new. Plucked right out of the lot and parked neatly in their driveway.

Coming up empty handed Madeline made the journey to the front door, letting herself into the private sanctuary. Instantly greeted by the warm welcoming smell of pasta and chocolate as soft jazz music floated through the air, seeping into her skin.

All thoughts of mysterious cars were momentarily released as Madeline took in her view. Taking a mental picture to tuck into the pocket of her brain reserved solely for the boy named Lando Norris.

The boy in question stood in a sea of cooking supplies, pots, and pans. Usually the sight would spark terror in Madeline, but the delicious smell wafting through the air told her he had somehow done something right while being unsupervised.

“Hey baby, how was work?” Lando turned to her, all smiles as he continued to stir a pot of pasta sauce.

“It was good, I got off on time.” She smiled at him.

“Yes you did, I’m proud of you.”

“Speaking of being proud.” Madelie walked over to his place at the stove, giving him a soft peck before surveying his pasta creation that was causing her stomach to rumble. Only to realize, this wasn't just any pasta recipe. No. This wasn't your run of the mill, pulled off the shelf pasta sauce. Madeline would recognize this perfect blend of spices and herbs anywhere. This was her mother’s recipe, the one crafted to perfection, packed with love, her favorite forever and always, and here it was. He had made it, made it for her.

“Did you do this?” She studded, taken aback. “This is my mom’s recipe-I-Lando-”

The boy sheepishly smiled, a gentle flush entered his cheeks as he rubbed the back of his neck. “My mom helped walk me through it but yeah, yeah I did. I wanted it to mean something-be something to you.”

Tears welled in the corners of Madeline hormonal eyes. “Lan this- this is a really complex recipe, I didn't know you were capable of doing this unsupervised.” She added with a laugh, because if she didn't laugh Madeline would start sobbing in the kitchen over pasta.

“I know, I want to be able to cook, not only for you but for our kid. When the time comes I want to be able to step in if you need me too, so I’m learning.”

Madeline continued to fight her tears, it was never really a fair battle. In a world full of excuses and weaponized incompetence how did she get so lucky with this man? Standing in front of her with tomato stains on his shirt and a half shredded block of parmesan on the counter next to him. No one asked him to learn to cook, to try. The thought had never as much as crossed Madeline's mind. That's what made it so special, she didn't have to ask. He just did, for her, for their baby.

Before Madeline could even begin to express her undying love and gratitude, Lando was springing to action once more. Carefully moving the pot off of the burner before moving to grab a small black box on the other side of the counter.

“So did you like the car?” He asked.

“I mean it’s still blindingly orange, but yeah I thought it was cool.” She responded, thinking he had to be asking about his newest Formula One rocket ship that had just been revealed earlier that day. She had spent her entire lunch break watching the livestream. Less for the car and more for the chance to see the bright smile on Lando's face when he was passionate about something, but for him all the same.

Lando laughed, eyes sizzling with amusement. “No Mads, not that car, your car.”

Madeline’s brow furrowed, suddenly caught off guard. Okay now she was confused. “My car? You mean my beat up Honda I’ve been driving for five years?” Her car was in terrible shape Madeline could admit. But it had been with her through thick and thin, and if it wasn't broken why fix it?

“Your new car silly.” Lando was fully hunched over in laughter now. As if there was a greater joke going on here, one that she had not been let in on.

Then it hit her. The initial confusion toward the new car in the driveway returned to the forefront of her mind. The Mercedes, surely he couldn't be serious.

“What the hell are you talking about?”

With one final delighted giggle Lando slid the small black box across the counter to her. “I don’t trust that beat up Honda to protect my baby and their mother. So I did a little research of my own. Mercedes-Benz GLE- Class.” Madeline stared in shock at the car keys as she opened the box. “One of the safest on the market. Performed highest in every crash test, only the best for you two.”

Madeline didn't know what to say. Maybe thank you was a good place to start, or even I love you. But in true hormonal Madeline fashion, all that came out was sobs. Deep sobs. Not full of panic or sadness, just raw emotion. As if the only way for Madeline to process being so loved was to let out whatever pain was left in her body.

“No, no. You're supposed to be happy Mads. You can't cry over a car, the season hasn't even started yet.” Lando hustled around the counter to hug her, housing her in his warm embrace.

“I'm pregnant, I can cry over whatever I want." She pouted. "You didn't have to get me a car.” She mumbled into the crook of his neck.

“Yeah I did, have you seen that piece of shit you drive?” He let out a laugh against her hair. His gentle breeze blowing stray strands across her forehead.

“But all I got you was a pair of shoes.” She added, suddenly self conscious of her less than Valentine's gift. The papaya colored Nike dunks seemed like a good idea at the time but next to her new Mercedes they seemed miniscule.

“And I love them, because you gave them to me.”

___

The dark road hummed beneath her, soothing both her mind and body. The wheel of the new Mercedes felt effortless against her palms. It’s driving smooth, much softer than her old car. The vehicle smelled of polished leather and clean citrus, that beautiful new car smell Madeline had forgotten the sensation of.

And the seats, oh the seats. They were cool, soft, and smooth in all the right ways. A substantial upgrade from the stained scratchy seats of her old car.

It was official, Madeline was in love with the Mercades. The first and last time she would ever say those words.

“Just to be clear, this is the one and only time I will let you drive me.” Lando poked from the passenger seat. A place Madeline couldn't ever recall him previously residing in. Lando drove, that was how things worked ever since they were teenagers. It was much safer that way, Madeline was sure. But seeing him in her passenger seat, getting to play chauffeur for him just this once, brought a smile to her face.

“Really, I think you quite like being my passenger princess.” She taunted, their lap around the neighborhood coming to a quiet close as she parked her new ride back in the driveway.

“In your dreams.” He winked, before running around the car in time to open her door. Only able to surrender so much chivalry.

She walked through the front door for the second time that night. The dirty pots and pans still in the sink from dinner. A dinner that was delicious and perfectly cooked, surprisingly Lando had managed to almost flawlessly replicate her mother’s recipe. How he achieved what even Cisca couldn’t, Madeline had no clue.

“Theres one more thing I wanted to talk to you about.” Lando slipped off his shoes before leading her into the living room. The couch covered in soft, awaiting blankets. “I’m going to tell the team about us tomorrow before the season picks up. I don’t want you to have to worry about it. But I wanted you to be aware.”

Madeline let out a heavy breath, lungs not quite refilling to their maximum. She knew this was coming. It wasn't a new idea. Her and Lando had touched on it many times before. Mostly for him to remind her that it was his weight to carry, his business to worry about.

“Okay.” All Madeline could do was nod, words softly falling from her lips. She told her own boss, telling Lando’s wasn't much different. Except it was, because it was one step closer to the whole world finding out, because they would. It was only a matter of time.

“Come here.” Lando reached over, large hands securing over her hips. Carefully lifting her into his lap. The comfort was gentle and grounding, a soft place to land, a place reserved for her and only her. “How do you feel about that, be honest.” He whispered in her ear.

How did she feel about it? Madeline was still unsure. “I-I don't know. It’s just every step, every person we tell, brings us closer to the world finding out-I’m not ready for that yet.” Her words were hushed and unsteady as her hand tapped mindlessly on his chest.

“Me either Mads.” Lando reassured, removing her hand from his chest, taking it in his own. Allowing her fingers to smooth over his calloused palms, a motion that never failed to calm her rockiest waters. “Telling the team is going to help us with that. It’s going to help keep you safe and handle the media side of things.”

The media, that was the part she was most worried about. The thought of the hundreds of thousands of people that would have opinions on her, on her child sent prickles down her spine, made her hands cold and clammy.

“It’s just, this is so new and fragile. It feels wrong to let other people in, to let them voice their opinions.” She gazed up at him with soft eyes.

“Madeline” his gaze settled firmly on hers. His other hand coming to lightly cup her jaw. “We tell the world about the pregnancy when you are ready, or we can show up in the paddock in two years with a tiny human and never address it. The choice is yours.” He laughed gently, the sound soothing the deepest nerves buzzing underneath her skin.

While the idea of never addressing things to the public was appealing, Madeline knew that was nearly impossible. For now Madeline settled for the reassurance that nothing was forcing her, rushing her.

When it happened, when the world found out, as long as it was on Madeline’s terms she would be okay. They would be okay.

___

The room was quiet, the lights dim and warm, just the way she liked it. Wrapped in her favorite silk pajamas, and soft heavy blanket, Madeline was perfectly content. Lando lay in bed next to her just as comfortable, scrolling through cat videos on Instagram, while Madeline was busy on her laptop.

The only reason Lando allowed her laptop in bed was because this time she wasn't working. At least not on numbers or clients.

However she was hard at work researching anything and everything baby related. From the safest cribs, to what type of onesies to buy, to the best car seats, to the many trials and tribulations of breast feeding.

A concerning amount of tabs inhabited the screen of her computer, so many that Madeline couldn't even finish one article before bouncing onto the next one.

Despite her filled browser Madeline like the research, it reassured something deep inside her. Told her that if she just kept reading, kept looking, that everything would be okay. It helped her feel prepared, like she was in control.

“Do you know anything about the structural integrity of cribs?” Madeline questioned softly as she scrolled through the various options. Hundreds of questions buzzed through her brain at the speed of light.

How high should the sides be?

How far apart could the gaps in the bars be?

Was bamboo better than wood?

What mattress should they put on the inside?

What sheets would have the smallest choking hazard?

Her previously calm night became anything but as she ran all the possible things that could go wrong, all the what ifs. All the questions she came up empty handed with answers to.

“Baby you do not need to be worried about the structural integrity of a crib right now, it is ten o'clock at night.” Lando leaned over, promptly shutting the lid of her laptop and putting it away for the evening. “I’m confiscating this till you stop using it to fuel your overthinking.”

“Lan, it's a very important question. Our baby is going to be sleeping in it. What if they fall out and crack their head open because we got the wrong one and it wasn't safe. It’ll be all my fault because I didn't do enough research and got the wrong one.” Madeline didn't even register her voice rising with every word, till she finished her rambling, slightly out of breath. Hands grasping tightly at the sheets.

Lando just raised an eyebrow and placed his phone on the bedside table, opening his arms up to her. A pleasant invitation. “Are you done overthinking and ready to cuddle me now?” He asked.

“These are normal things to consider Lan.” Madeline defended.

“Considering and overthinking every possible outcome of buying a particular crib are two different things Mads, come here.” His last words were a soft whisper, fingers quietly beckoning her forward, drawing her into his arms.

“I just want what's best for them, I want them to be safe.” Madeline mumbled into his chest, his hands wrapped around her body, interlaced on her lower back, their bodies intertwined once more.

“They are going to be safe Mad’s because they have you.” He placed a tender kiss on her forehead. An act of reassurance, of unwavering love and support. Madeline allowed it to ground her, just for a moment.

____

Madeline knew something wasn't quite right the moment she pulled into the darkening driveway only to find Lando’s car nowhere in sight. Her worry only built as the clock ticked past 6pm and the papaya boy and his obnoxious Mclaren were dust in the wind.

His absence hit her hard in the chest, she had grown accustomed to having him around when she arrived home from work, eating a calm dinner with him before rolling into bed. It had become their sacred routine. But he wasn't here, and the sickening feeling in her stomach continued to grow, because she had a feeling she knew exactly what was keeping him at MTC. What was keeping him away from her.

Today was the day, the day he was supposed to tell the team. Tell the team that she was pregnant with his child. She tried to let it go, she really had. Tried to let him take care of something, take care of her. After the accident she had gotten better about loosening her hold, letting others carry the load. But with every passing second, every moment spent without her curly haired boy bouncing through the door, her anxiety grew. Her urge to control the situation grew along with it.

“Madeline you're making me dizzy with all your pacing. Can you sit down before you flip the baby upside down or something?” Max complained from his place perched on a barstool at the kitchen island. Watching her do laps upon laps around him.

“First of all that’s not how it works Max, second of all I’m allowed to be anxious. He’s usually home an hour before me and I’ve been back for almost-” she frantically turned to her watch to check the time. “I’ve been home for two hours Max. I'm allowed to be nervous, has he texted you back yet?” She added, a hopeful sparkle in her voice. One that faded quickly as he shook his head.

Perhaps this wouldn't be so bad, so anxiety inducing if she at least had a text from him. Even a vague Hey, I'll be home a little late. Would be better than nothing, better than this.

She suddenly understood what it felt like for Lando to wait at home for her all those nights she worked late.

Just as Madeline was about to start her hundredth lap around the kitchen, she heard it. A tired fumble at the door, as if someone was on their third try of attempting to turn the key properly in the lock. Before a soft click and the rustle of the door opening against the entryway rug greeted her anticipating ears.

Lando was back, he was home. Three hours later than planned. That only meant one thing in Madeline’s mind. Things hadn't gone to plan. In the time it took Lando to open the door and trudge into the kitchen Madeline replayed all the possible things that had gone wrong at MTC.

Did Zak and Andrea not approve of her, of their child?

Did they give him an ultimatum, keep his job or keep the baby?

Did they not want him to be around her?

Did they think his image was ruined? That no sponsors would want him if he was a father?

The moment Lando’s tired frame appeared in the kitchen Madeline’s eyes were on him, assessing every inch of his appearance. Every muscle pulled just a little too tight. The slight crinkle in his forehead, the way his hands clinched too hard at his sides to be normal. All things the untrained eye would miss. Pass off as the normal way he carried himself. But Madeline could see it, she had spent her entire life dissecting every piece of him, all the microscopic ways he expressed his emotions. Even ones he didn't consciously realize.

She could see his posture for what it was. Lando was exhausted, frustrated, and the faintest shadow in the boy’s green eyes told her he was disappointed.

“I’ll give you two some space.” Max removed himself from the kitchen, leaving Lando with a small supportive smile and a gentle pat on the back. His absence left just the two of them in the kitchen, alone. A setting Madeline would usually be thrilled about, but something about the tension in Lando’s jaw told her this was not about to be a fun conversation.

“Madeline I-” his words cut off, breath uneven.

Madeline didn't falter, just jumped into action knowing this was her time to support him. To carry the weight, they were a team after all.

“Come here” she gestured to the kitchen table. “I’ll make you some tea, then we can talk. Does that sound good?” Madeline waited to receive his weak nod before turning on the eclectic kettle. “Have you eaten?” She turned back to ask, watching as he slumped into the creaking chair.

“I ate lunch.” He sighed.

Madeline shook her head in light amusement, this could not possibly be the same man who delivered her lunch daily and scolded her when she got off her normal eating schedule. “Well if I remember correctly a wise man once told me that doesn't count.” The teasing comment earned the smallest laugh from him, she would take it as a win.

“I’ll warm you up some leftovers.”

After the tea had been steeped and Lando was eating, Madeline finally sat down to join him. “What happened Lan? Did it not go well?” She asked the question she had been fearing the answer to ever since she had showed up to his unplanned absence.

“I’m sorry Mads I tried- I really tired, I promised I’d protect you but-” his gaze dropped from her to his plate. Damp eyes hiding from hers.

“Lan” Madeline sighed, hand gently reaching across the table. Giving his own a gentle squeeze as she found the warm soft skin. “This situation was out of your control, whatever happened it's not your fault, just talk to me okay?” Her thumb traced small patterns on the back of his hand, an action that was meant to calm the both of them.

“They want a meeting, with me, with Zak, with pr-” He paused, hand going slack in hers. “And with you.” He finally finished, voice small.

Madeline tried her best to conceal her worry at the idea of Mclaren making their personal business a team wide pr matter, this wasn't about her right now, this was about Lando. He needed her.

“Lan, that's not your fault. Do you know what they want to talk about?” She moved out of her seat, coming to crouch beside him, brushing stray curls away from his downturned eyes.

“Zak called it a meeting to handle things, as if this was a problem that needed to be solved. As if this is something bad, instead of one of the best things that’s ever happened to me.” His words trembled as they left him in a weak whimper.

Madeline sighed, thankful for the bone deep passion and protectiveness that flowed through his words, but filled with the violent urge to punch his boss in the face for making Lando feel like this. Like a burden.

“You told me that we’re a team, that we do things together. That doesn't stop now Lan, we’ll get through this, together I promise.” She encouraged. “I’ll go to the meeting, if it makes things easier for you Lan.” She sighed, meaning every word that exited her lips. Even if it caused dread to pool in her stomach, she would do it for him. He didn't deserve to be punished for this.

“You really mean that.” He tentatively looked up.

“Every single word.” She reassured. “Now it’s my turn to get you into bed, I’ll even let you be little spoon this time.” She added with a wink, leading him into the comforting pile of blankets in her bedroom. Tomorrow they would worry about their future, about the looming meeting, but for now it would just be them. Them and their tiny little heartbeat they would move mountains for.

97 notes · View notes