#loving this new tablet i got for christmas

[tummietown]

clown vore will be real in 7 seconds

i also love drawing paws so. smiles

[evilfarmin]

🐶🐶🐶

[cheriecrushed]

messy doodle from the other day

[rainbow-bog]

{ ⭐ Lucky Star ⭐ }

[sl-newsie]

American Woman (Thomas Shelby x American OC) Ch. 44: Season's Greetings

Masterlist: https://www.tumblr.com/sl-newsie/739551758747090944/american-woman-thomas-shelby-x-american-oc?source=share

December 24, 1925

Liverpool Docks

“Ready, Ada?”

Ada wraps her fox fur coat around her shoulders to combat the cold wind. “Are you? It’s been a whole year since you’ve seen Tommy.”

We climb inside the Bently waiting for us. There’s so many nerves bottled up inside I feel like I’m about to burst. My broers’ last words still have me wondering if I’m making the right choice.

“I pray these months haven’t changed him too much.” 

“I’m staying with Polly. Would you like to drive with me to John’s to drop off some presents? I’m checking in on Arthur too.”

I stare through the window at the wandering people. “Actually I’m going straight to the office to settle some questions I have. You can go on ahead. I’ll visit John later.”

Throughout the whole drive to Birmingham Ada and I go back and forth discussing last-minute details from the Boston docks. However, my mind cannot stop drifting to think about seeing Thomas again. Last time I was so close. So close to telling him everything. I know expecting him to wait is completely ridiculous. Maybe that’s why the excitement of coming back is stained by the fear that my absence will have caused him to be forgetful of me.

The car stops outside a new building I’ve never seen before. 

“This must be the new office,” Ada says. “Are you still going to the Christmas party?”

“Yes. I’ll tell John I’ll be there.” 

I grab my trunk and step out into the muddy streets. December in England is so much more wet than in Brooklyn. Where’s the snow? I walk into the first room and spot Lizzie behind a desk. When she sees me her eyes flash the familiar look of hatred.

“Season’s greetings, Lizzie. What should I expect?”

She gives a small huff and returns to checking the records. “He’s isolated himself from the family. ‘S just been him and Charlie.” I walk past her to a staircase and she speaks up again. “Oh, by the way, the only love he’s received is from whores. Thought you should know.”

Sure. She can think I’ll believe that. As much as my heart might fall for Thomas there is still a part of me that dreads to know that he still takes physical pleasures from other women. My only guess is that I have to become as corrupt and defiled as the rest for him to consider me. May might be right. I’m too pure for this.

Michael walks through a door and sees me climbing up. “Oh! Tommy didn’t say you were coming.”

My face brightens. “Michael! I’m so sorry I wasn’t there when you all were pardoned-”

He holds a hand up to stop me and offers to help me with my trunk. “It’s alright, Verena. You’ve helped keep the business flowing smoothly. All’s well in Boston, I hope?”

“Business is booming. How’s Polly?”

Michael’s smile drops. “Not as good. She’s addicted to tablets from the prison. Going off her rocker, to tell you the truth.”

Oh God. That poor woman… Why didn’t Thomas tell me things had gotten this worse? 

“You thought she was religious before,” Micheal says. “Now she claims she sees spirits.”

I’m almost afraid to ask. “Did all of you… change?”

He bites his lip, contemplating if he wants to go any further. “Yes.”

“How bad?”

“You can see for yourself at John’s party.”

Right. The party. “Will the children be there?”

Michael checks his watch and starts walking. “Yes. Arthur’s been excited for you to meet little Billy.”

“My instructions from Thomas have stopped,” I call after him. “Any reason why?”

Michael turns to face me with his mouth pressed in a thin line. “He’s detaching himself from work.” That doesn’t sound like Thomas. “I’ll have more instructions for you after the holidays.”

No. I’m not waiting any longer. I’m going straight to the source. “Is he here?”

Michael points down the hall. “Right through that magical door. He just got done with a meeting.”

I start walking to it. “Please tell Polly I’ll visit as soon as I can. Wish her a ‘Merry Christmas’ for me.”

I push the door open and walk into a dimly lit room. Inside is a long wooden business table. A portrait of the company’s stemma hangs on the wall. At the end of the room Thomas sits at the table, smoking as usual. The thing that sets him apart from last time are the round spectacles on his grimly-carved face. Through the thick smoke I can’t tell if he's just as happy to see me.

“Ah, there are those braids. Did you come over with Ada?”

I don’t know how to respond to this greeting. Commenting my hair braids? Not even a simple hello? 

“Yes,” I answer slowly. “Merry Christmas to you, too. Ada's gone to visit your brothers, then she’s coming to see you.”

He doesn’t seem interested. Instead Thomas gets up and walks closer to look at me. “You’ve changed. Your letters stress more on business instead of pleasure. But you’re still full of spirit.”

So he does read my letters. He just doesn’t bother to respond. Full of spirit, am I? Maybe it’s because I was so desperate to hear from him. Such a contrast to his unaffectionate personality.

“Vader recovered quite well. When he was able to walk I spent the summer helping my brother Eoin and his wife with their four kids so they could take a vacation. You’d change too if you had to learn to wrangle those little schavuits.” 

I walk closer too, dawning a deciphering face that tells him I cannot be so heartless. “In fact… You look different as well. Those glasses…” Is it just me or does Thomas look more tense than before? “I like it. Makes you look… sophisticated. Just like the man everyone in Boston thinks you are.”

Thomas catches on to my cold tone and tries to ignore it. “I see you’re wearing the gift I sent you.”

“Yes I am, thank you very much,” I say gratefully and finger the pendant around my neck. “I love it. I’m surprised you remembered.”

A quaint smile crosses his face. “‘S not every day a girl turns 23.”

True. But what’s happening right now is not about me. I need to redirect him back to the subject at hand.

“You wrote that you wanted me back. Thomas, I’m serious, I am here to help reconnect your family. What plans do you and Charlie have for Christmas?”

Why is he looking at me like that? It’s like he wants to avoid me, glare at me, or hug me. I thought I was conflicted about this visit but I think he beats me. 

“We’re spending Christmas at Arrow House,” Thomas says. “I got him his own horse. A thoroughbred.”

My eyes close and I have to keep from frowning. “Thomas. That’s very sweet, but a horse cannot replace family.”

He takes a puff on his cigarette. “Polly’s seeing spirits. Michael needs cocaine to stay awake. Linda and Esme want to carve my eyes out. Gathering for Christmas is not going to fix this, Verena. Also, Ada tells me you’ve been advertising whiskey on the side.”

I shrug. “Your clients like to drink, my vader makes whiskey. It’s been profitable. Is that so wrong?” He’d be a hypocrite if he disagrees.

Thomas shakes his head and walks over to pour a glass of his own whiskey. “I heard Lizzie mention my recent routines with ladies of the night. Thought you’d have something to say to that, eh? Religious reminders or what not.”

That is it! I’ve had enough!

I clench my fists and make for the door before I punch him in his smug face. “I came here to help your family! Whoever you fuck is not my concern, Thomas. I know I can’t change your mind about it. All you Shelbys ever do is screw around.”

Behind me I hear him hum in surprise. “Still so innocent.”

I spin around and face him with a glare moeder would be proud of. “‘Look like the innocent flower, But be the serpent under ‘t.’ Beware women, Thomas. Their sweet smiles can turn into venomous bites when their motive is strong.” I am not so different.

Thomas raises a brow. “So I shouldn’t trust you either, eh?

I grunt frustratedly and grip my head. “I’m telling you this so you can trust me. Everywhere you send me I’ve seen strong-willed men come undone at a woman’s smile.” My eyes narrow with determination. “I am stronger than that. When a handsome man tries to sway my opinion I know exactly how to correct him.”

Thomas can’t ignore the mention of another man. “And how is that, might I ask?”

I smirk. “A loaded pistol used for a little persuasion never hurts. At least at first.”

Thomas mirrors my grin and raises his glass. “Remind me never to make you mad.”

“You have before. Was I that pleasant?”

His eyes darken. “No.”

I put my hands on my hips. “That’s what I thought.”

Thomas glances at my trunk. “Are you staying in town?”

I grimace at the thought of Ada having to stay with Polly. “I’m stopping by John’s to say hello before the party. I’m planning on going back to Watery Lane so I don’t intrude. People are going to hate me too, Thomas.”

I feel him grab my small hand with his callused one. “Stay at Arrow House for Christmas. There’s more than enough room. Charlie will be happy to see you.”

We’re not getting anywhere. “That’s why I’m here, Thomas. For you and your family. Are you still not going to John’s party?”

Thomas’ blue eyes dart all over my face. “They don’t want anything to do with me. I find myself blessed enough to have you back. I’m not bringing them back into this if they don’t want to.”

And I can’t force him into this because he’s too scared to face them. I’ve got my work cut out. Maybe there can be a Christmas miracle.

“Okay, Thomas. I can stay at Arrow House. But you need to promise me that you will at least make an effort to wish them a ‘Merry Christmas.’”

My acceptance of his offer brings a slight smile to Thomas’ face. “Before you go to John’s there’s something I’d like to show you.”

Of all places to find surprises I would not expect a normal-looking warehouse with no one guarding it. I’m led inside and take in the view of a giant room stocked to the brim with bottles of gin. His own distillery! This kind of progress is just what Thomas needs! A hobby that’s not trying to kill him.

“Goodness! When did this happen?”

Thomas brings out a case of bottles. “Your father’s drink inspired me. Now I use dad’s old recipe to make my own. We’ll still buy your brand, of course.”

I’m still gawking in wonder at the place. “Thomas, this is amazing!”

“Try some?” He holds out a sample glass. “Be honest.”

I take a sip and take in the new flavor. Nothing like vader’s but I give him credit. My taste is very specific. “It’s good. Quite impressive. Do you export?”

Thomas nods proudly. “Yeah. Some I send off to Boston. Your lot drink it up like water.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Didn’t want to steal your dad’s business.” Is Thomas Shelby being modest? “Soon enough we’ll produce 200 gallons a week.”

Time to test the waters. “Maybe I can bring some to John? I’m sure he’d like to try some.”

Thomas’ smile fades. “Knowing Esme she’ll spit it on you. You’re really going to play peacemaker, Verena?”

I step closer and feel the same energy from before I left. When I felt like I was where I belonged in the world. He needs to know he’s not traveling this beaten path alone.

“You say I am innocent. Perhaps God is calling me here to spread my positive spirit during this festive season. Your family has seen numerous tragedies, Thomas. You can’t be broken apart. You need to be mended together. That’s why I am here.”

That, and because I love you. Do I go further?

Thomas keeps looking at me as if I’m a mirage. “I can never understand how you still believe we are so righteous and can be saved. That I can be saved. Do you ever want something for yourself?”

Yes. So selfishly yes. But it’s someone I want so selfishly. There are many ways I can answer that.

I spot a clock on the wall. Patience, Steenstra. This cannot be summed up in a few minutes.

“How about we continue this when I get back from John’s tonight? We can catch up properly without any interruptions.”

Thomas wants to keep me here but he knows better than to argue. “We’ll be waiting.”

@meadows5

[translatemunson]

what if all i need is you? • love-struck

chapter eight of love-struck — fic navigation

After months of working in the BAU, you knew cases would arrive at any second. And the inbetween cases were filled with more paperwork and consulting cases.

If a new unsub didn’t decide to show their face during the weekend, Mondays were known to be paperwork days at the BAU. When a case would wrap up on a friday — or even during the weekend —, most reports were left over the tables for when they come back. And when all the paperwork was done, or at least mostly written down and reviewed by Hotch, Tuesdays would be the days where everyone would assist or consult a case — if no unsub decided to act on a Monday. 

Most of it would consist in tracing the profiles and helping the local police department with insightful information about motivations or what the unsub could seek or where to strike next. Nothing the BAU team wouldn’t do with their hands behind their backs and eyes closed.

When you walked into the FBI headquarters in Quantico, Virginia that morning, you had a to do list in mind. Your quick steps almost made you fumble over your undone shoelaces, but your balance was always ready to quick in.

Everything was going on through your mind, at a million times a hour. First, you needed to find the perfect gift for your Secret Santa. Second, a Christmas gift for Spence. Both could be solved in a few hours. But you also needed to finish your paperwork — just a report Hotch asked you to fill regarding the last crime scene — and get your thoughts about some FBI case to the corresponding division before 3 PM so you could leave the office early.

But once you’ve found a very dense case on your email, you knew only one thing would get done that day.

You were finishing up some notes from a case the Online Crimes division sent to get a second opinion. You received and reviewed the case as soon as you walked into the sixth floor, and right now you were planning on using Penelope Garcia’s expertise and brain to fill a few gaps your notes left you with.

“I got you some coffee,” Spencer announced as he left your mug beside your free hand. He leaned in closer to you. “What are you working on?”

“Potential murder, certified stalker unsub from the Online Crimes. They asked for some help.” You grabbed the mug and took a few sips. “Thanks, Spence.”

“You’re welcome.” He read a few pages of the file on your tablet screen and the notes scattered on your desk. “Tough case?”

“Very dense. But I’m gonna ask Garcia for some help, I think she might be able to access some places the FBI won’t sneak around, if you know what I mean.” You gathered all the papers together and your tablet. You turned your chair around and threw your head back, making eye contact with Spencer. “Do you need me for something?”

“No, not at all. Just thought you needed some coffee and maybe some help, but you already got things under control.”

Spencer took a step back, creating space for you to get up. You took one last sip of your coffee before doing it, standing so close to him you could smell his perfume.

“Hey, girl genius,” Emily crossed the glass doors of the BAU, “Garcia said she’s ready for you.”

“Great!” You checked if you had everything about the case in your folder. Before you could go to Garcia’s office, Spencer held you by your waist. You got on your tiptoes to reach his face and give him a small kiss on the cheek — screw the PDA warnings. “How about some Indian later? It’s on me,” your phone started ringing and you knew who was texting you. “See ya, love you.”

You were so focused on your assignment that you didn’t stop for the lunch break or notice what was happening around you. As expected, Penelope knew all the ways to fill the blanks you found in the case file, and as an amazing profiler, your job was done just in time to come back to your desk and call the Online Crimes agent. But unfortunately you wouldn’t be able to leave the office to go find the gifts today.

You returned to the BAU bullpen and felt some pair of eyes on your back. Spencer was missing, but that didn’t alarm you since sometimes he would be somewhere else, or just at Derek’s office, discussing a case or just annoying his coworker. As soon as your body hit the chair, Emily glared at you from her table, the classic Cheshire Cat smile taking over her face.

“What’s up, Prentiss?”

“Nothing.” You raised an eyebrow, not convinced. “What? You don’t believe me?”

“Not at all. But you’ll tell me what’s on your mind later. Right now I need to call Agent Williams.” You dismissed the conversation quickly, grabbing your cell phone and typing the Agent’s number.

You explained to Agent Williams your professional opinion and the gaps Penelope helped you with, answering all their questions and making small adjustments on profile. They promised to let you know once they got the creep behind bars, you encouraged them to call if more details emerged.

Emily was gone, but Spencer was back. You grabbed your water bottle and walked to his desk, leaning on it to get his attention. However he was too absorbed in his files to notice you. 

“Spence?” You gently touched his arm. You got his attention, but behind his eye you could tell his mind was elsewhere. “You ok?”

“Yeah, yeah, just,” he pointed to the files. “Time to go?”

“Not yet. JJ just asked me to help her with the party decor, so I’ll be over there,” you pointed to the round table room.

“Ok.” 

“Promise I won’t take too long,” you messed with his hair before walking up the stairs to the room.

JJ was full of good ideas, and she used your brain to coordinate the places, colors and everything concerning the decor of her house. In the end, she decided on a more cozy looking dinner than anything fancy — you could already hear Rossi talking that you should host it next time at his place because he would take care of everything.

And you were back to the bullpen, Spence nowhere to be seen and the clock ticking and telling you to go home. Your steps led you to Morgan’s office just to find him leaving it.

“Hey, did you see Spence?” you asked and followed him closely.

“Not after he left my office, why?”

“Oh, nothing. He’s probably talking to Penny or Rossi.”

Morgan held the door open for you, and grabbed your arm before you could go to their offices.

“You have no clue, have you?”

“About what?” You bit your lip, waiting for Morgan to spill. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Morgan. I really don't. Did I screw up one of my reports?”

“Pumpkin, do you remember what you said to Reid today?”

“I promised him some Indian after work.” You furrowed your eyebrows. “We spoke so little today, I really don’t know what you’re talking about, Derek.”

“You probably slashed his IQ forever when you said you love him in front of the whole office.”

Your eyes grew wide, and your mouth popped open. You said it and didn’t even notice. It slipped out of your lips as the most natural thing… because it was, you loved Spencer and wanted to tell him every chance you got. But you were holding back so your actions wouldn’t rush him to do the same.

“Looks like her IQ was also slashed,” Emily joined the conversation. You looked at her, offended. “What? Everyone thought he would be used to your ‘i love you’s by now, but the way he blushed when you left… opposite, you know?”

“Do you know how much I hate working with profilers?”

“We know. How could you not notice him being antsy all day? And everyone noticed when you left, Spencer looked like he was about to blow up!” Emily added.

“You’re making me feel terrible. Do any of you know where he is? I’m not joking, I need to avoid the boy genius meltdown.”

“I think he’s playing some chess with Rossi,” JJ interrupts the conversation, and you all face her. “What? When the three of you are together, I know who you’re talking about.”

“Thanks, JJ!”

You ran up the stairs, knocked Rossi’s door and waited for the “Come in!” You found Reid very absorbed in the chess game, and Rossi was telling him about some old case Gideon, Spencer’s old mentor, had solved when the BAU was still a baby.

“I’d hate to interrupt your game, but I made a promise to this guy,” you pointed towards Spencer. “I’m gonna pack my stuff and meet you at the elevators in five.”

And you did as you said. You couldn’t avoid staring at Rossi’s door to see if Spencer was finally victorious in his game. People were leaving the office, and you tried to stay still next to the elevators. Emily gave you two thumbs up, Derek smiled, JJ whispered “Everything’s gonna be fine”. How could you work with the most amazing and annoying people in the world?

“Sorry, I ended up needing two extra moves to check,” Spencer fixed his satchel bag before pressing the button. “So, Indian?”

“Spence.” The doors opened and you entered the metallic box. You pressed the lobby button. You stayed side by side.

“I never thought Rossi would be a challenger at chess. It’s like he absorbed all the strategies from years playing with Gideon, stored them in a box just to find it decades later.”

“Spencer.”

“Actually, you should play with him sometime. It’s better than playing with a machine, and you can practice dealing with outside distractions.”

“Doctor Spencer Reid.”

You pulled him from his avoidant talk with a bang. You felt guilty, but you needed to get this thing out of your chest before you exploded.

“We need to talk.”

Spencer got closer to you, shielding you from whoever may come through those doors. He could see you thinking too much about everything — and the first biggest miscommunication, he’d take things careful. Yes, he tried to avoid it for as long as he could, but he also knew you 

 “I know what I said earlier, and I wanted to say it for so long, and I’m sorry I just said it.” You started to play with the hen of your cardigan, with the buttons of your coat. Now you were the one avoiding him, fearing that you fucked everything up. “I don’t expect you to say it like that, so please don’t hate me or feel pressured to do the same. And I definitely do not regret it because I love you. But it’s ok if you-” 

Spencer held your face carefully and threw his lips against yours, faster than your brain could process. It didn’t last long, with the elevator indicating that you were on the parking floor.

“You’re pretty when you start to ramble. And I could never hate you, because I love you”, he held your hand. You stepped outside of the metallic shell and, as you headed towards your car, Spence said “Now can we go grab the Indian and head home? I wanna teach you this new chess strategy!”

“Sure, Spence.”

a/n: first of all: NEW WALLPAPER FOR GIRLGENIUS! sorry for taking too long! i had a few health issues the past few weeks and it delayed the chapter! but i did my best and made it very special! hope you guys like it! shout out to my partner in crime @munsonsreputation love you kay baby!

tag list (lmk if you wanna be tagged on future updates!): @live-love-be-unique @kenseverything

next chapter: let me keep you company

[alphaofdarkness]

🌌🎧 📼 🕵️‍♀️ 🎡

Thank you so much for the ask @kazoosandfannypacks !! 🥰💜

🌌 What's your favorite sabezra moment?

I answered my favorite here!

I will say this moment comes a close second, more so now for the development and growth of Sabine and Ezra becoming friends and her acceptance of him being part of the Ghost crew ☺️ just a beautiful moment, especially with Bine reaching out to Ezra throughout the two episodes when it came to making peace with Tseeboo and his parents being taken 🥺

🎧 Do you have a favorite Christmas song that's a little more shippy/makes you think of sabezra?

Hmm 👉🏼👈🏼😅 I swear I love Christmas, don’t judge me, I just don’t listen to a lot of Christmas music, it’s just not fully my genre of music I guess (；・∀・), so I can’t really fit one for sabezra alas 🥲 I do love some of the songs and hymns played during Christmas time at church overall, but none that would fit sabezra either haha.

Would Willow by Taylor Swift count at all? It had the winter vibes and I think that song definitely fits with sabezra well 💜🧡 (I’ll got ahead excuse myself ahh ;;w;; )

📼 Favorite Christmas movie!

Ah, I don’t think I have an actual Christmas themed movie that is my favorite, that I recall or know of 🤔 but I love Happy Feet so much! 🥹 it’s been my favorite movie in the last few years and always get giddy and happy when I see it during this time (I need to watch it when I can 👉🏼👈🏼)🥹🐧 I love Mumble so much, very much, I get all tappy with my feet and the music! It is definitely my favorite of the film for sure ☺️ by extension, I also love Happy Feet 2! 😊

🕵🏻‍♀️ What are you most looking forward to for this secret santa event?

Honestly, I’m just excited to see the new sabezra arts (include gifs, edits and videos) and writing! Everyone’s unique style of sabezra is always a joy to see! ☺️ I definitely look forward to seeing any of the Christmas, holiday, and life day themed ones!

I am participating in the event so~ I pray I do my gift justice 💜🙏🏼 I also hope I can start drawing it this coming week on a new tablet (as the one I’ve been using is reaching the end of its life ah). I’ve made a few rough, traditional, small sketches so 🙏🏼 hoping for the best! ☺️

🎡 Have you participated in any other sabezra/rebels/ahsoka fandom events? Which ones?

I recently did arts for the recent Sabezra Week 2024! 😊 I also did two art works for Sabine Week 2024 over the summer too!

Both were amazing and very fun events! I hope to make more art for the next Sabezra Week 2025 🙏🏼 I was very busy with my gift art for Eman and Natasha so it took most of my time 🥹

[the-mighty-mittens]

More arts, this time it's Arianna from Castoff! (My new obsession lately XD)

I got a drawing tablet for Christmas and this is the first full drawing I made with it! Still getting used to it but I love being able to do the whole drawing process on my computer now! (I used to do the sketch on paper and trace+color on my tablet with ibispaint)

Castoff by @thestarfishface

Go read it! It's awesome! (castoff-comic.com)

[centeris2]

just played the update so you all get to suffer my thoughts

Gonna preface this with I fully support and want SSO to reuse and recycle events. I love when SSO went "we're decorating the mall and Silverglade Village again for Christmas! Not changing the quests even remotely!" I loved that, I loved the feeling of 'tradition' (or something familiar to look forward to) as it happened year after year. Not to mention it made things easier on the team.

Okay, now that is out of the way:

Camp Western

I'm sorry Camp Western but you were at a disadvantage because I was not in a mood for an event, I feel like we just finished the Spring Event and I'm so tired and do not have time or brain space for an event. I also have no inventory space so anything giving me player items is not something I want to do right now because my backpack only has so much space left. But I overall really liked the western event last year, and I was like 45 XP from hitting level 27, so gonna do it.

(Yeah, level 27. It's mind boggling, idk what happened.)

I am relieved Camp Western looks to have nothing new added to it, other than new gear (which I will skip due to the "no inventory space" thing.)

Now to the actual stuff:

I feel like all the stuff that made Camp Western really cool last year isn't there anymore. Which is hard to believe because nothing changed about the event.

Coming off the Spring Event where races gave you 800 horse xp, not having anything comparable feels... lacking. I'm sure their logic is "Camp Western has unlimited Horse XP because of the gold!" which is true.

But if I wanted to run around in circles getting 2 hxp per shiny thing, I could do that in the Hollow Woods, without the threat of things attacking me. There is also wisps, rune tablets, and crafting plants to pick up.

Want to grind gold for shillings? Also not Special anymore, I can do that in Hollow Woods harvesting light or around the map picking plants without being chased. Not that being chased matters for me right now, I ended up with like 70+ beast repellents last year somehow.

Want something to do with mini games for as long as you feel like being in game? Hollow Woods, again! Or anything in game that triggers a 'cut scene' now has the same basic mini game.

300 horse XP for collecting the horses around Firgrove? Ehh, why do that when I can repeat the races around the ranch, Firgrove, or anywhere else that doesn't involve getting chased by things. 300 horse xp isn't a lot anymore when you can repeat a race, or when past events gave 800 horse xp in a single race. 800 horse xp in like a minute, or 300 horse xp that requires trading an item (albeit one that isn't hard to get) and finding the horse and dealing with dangers and leading it back? Ehh it just...

Idk. I don't want to say past events were too generous and too easy in terms of rewards, but it doesn't feel as rewarding, ya know?

Additional caveat: I have like over 3k gold from last year and over 1k summer tokens because I did all the activities and token exchanges every day, so I am rolling in tokens. However! This is exactly WHY I did that! So I could go "ehh, I don't have the time/energy/interest in this event, I got enough tokens and gold to buy what I want if a pet comes out, and I can be on my merry way."

I do like that they've increased the stack sizes for things, so all my gold can be in one stack now (and I could condense my lures and beast repellents). I also do like that it is basically a repeat. Yes, I am still calling that a net positive.

I had other complaints but they were mostly bugs unrelated to Camp Western, like hot keys not working.

Oh I'm really glad they've just gone to "season tokens" rather than having every event every year have a unique currency. That was annoying. That's not new I'm just happy about it.

Also what is this weird black cloud thing that we can hide in. I don't understand it. Do the wolves lose interest if we pass through it, do we have to stay in it, does it only work if we aren't detected already? Why does SSO insist on having like 5 different versions of a stealth mechanic and they are ALL different.

TL;DR - The neat things they tested out with Camp Western last year they added to the game permanently, which makes Camp Western not feel special anymore because you can do basically the exact same mechanics elsewhere (possibly for better/easier rewards too oopS)

[pedroschka]

not my type

Joseph Quinn x reader

words: 1.9k fluff

Summary: one sided feelings can destroy friendships, so you and Joe make it very clear that you both are not each other's type, pinky promise clear

A/n: @ghostinthebackofyourhead grab your favorite bread and (hopefully) enjoy because I'm your secret Santa!! thanks to @quinnyfairy for organising this <3

Mid laugh, brown eyes crinkling and his head thrown back, that's the blurry image of your best friend in front of you for the last two minutes.

"Joe as much I love to see your little potato head but your screen is frozen."

" ugh, shit! The bloody wifi connection at my parents' is the worst. Wait a second!" his voice on the other end is a bit muffled as he seems to be moving around, trying to fix it.

It was one day after Christmas and you and Joe are trying to have your own little celebration via video call while you both are at your family's and didn't want to wait till you eventually see each other in person again, unpredictable with Joe's busy schedule nowadays anyway. So you both had sent each other's presents via post and now wanted to unpack them together.

So now you sit on your bed in your old bedroom, presents scattered around you and your tablet in front of you with the frozen image of your laughing friend.

" OK, what about now?" Joe's face finally in time again and him waving at the camera

" yes, now get started I already tried peaking but you really are serious about your sticky tape"

" and see how it came in handy" his cocky little smile makes you roll your eyes while grabbing the first present on your left which already has a bit of wrapping paper ripped out, but sticky tape all around it preventing you from making out what it could be.

At the end, you both sit in a colorful mass out of wrapping paper, presents sorted in a little pile beside you, and now updating each other on the newest family tea.

" no! I swear my aunt was full-on gushing about how Eddie looked like her ex-boyfriend's when she was a teen and started showing pictures of you as Eddie all around the dining table, it was soo uncomfortable!" you comically shuddered and Joe's snickering like a little kid at your theatrics.

As comfortable and at ease you were now around him was the complete opposite when you first met each other a year ago.

You sat on your friend's couch, phone in hand, and playing some stupid game, that only seems to come to use in social situations out of ultimate boredom, but trying to look very busy for the people around you. Questioning why your friend even thought it was a good idea to invite you to one of her parties, celebrating whatever with a bunch of her actor friends, when you were the epitome of socially awkward and just overall really bad at meeting new people.

You tried, you really tried to be a part of some conversations, standing in a group full of, on first sight, cliché book extroverts, all of them with interesting lives and using big words talking about different plays, with you just standing there and fake laughing at their jokes you didn't understand and attempting to stop comparing yourself with them. Which didn't work so after a few exhausting hours in which you've been ignored or got an awkward "was nice meeting you" after you ranted too much about a topic you finally could understand you gave up. Your social battery drained and you loathing in self-pity.

Loud cheers and greetings make you look up from your phone, great even more people. The new guest is a very ordinary-looking guy, plain light washed baggy jeans hanging low on his hips, a plain white shirt, sneakers. Not bad on the eye with tousled brown curls as well as brown eyes but not really your type.

Still he held an aura around him that forced you to keep your attention on him, apparently the people around him felt the same effect as they were hanging on every word that was coming out of his mouth. Or is he... Famous around here?! And you are just the only one who has absolutely no idea who he is?

But you're already admiring him for a different reason, Looking so awkward but at the same time so charmingly charismatic and being able to find the right words and topic for each person. You couldn't help to be slightly jealous.

Forced to look down again as he looked across the room and dangerously close in your direction you continued your game, only looking up again as you felt the couch dip as someone sat themselves beside you, and you hastily tried to turn your phone away to not get caught.

"well, that looks fun" shit.

Unknown ordinary looking /maybe famous guy is smiling at you and nodding at your phone

"uggh, kinda" and your brain is letting you down again.

But he doesn't seem bothered by your brain-dead state and tried again to engage you in a conversation, ending up with him having your phone and you, hanging half over his shoulder, explaining to him how to play the game.

"oh, I'm Joe by the way!"

You met Joe a few times after that again and eventually exchanged numbers which resulted in a weird and chaotic friendship. With his ability to make you feel so comfortable around him and just being yourself, he has to endure your ranting over the most ridiculous topics or oversharing the most private things, but it doesn't seem to bother him, on the contrary, he seems to even encourage your weirdness and just adapt to it.

Because of this connection between you both, you lost count of how many times people thought you both were dating or how many times your friends and family tried to play matchmaker, so a pinky promise between you and joe was made that you both are on the same page, that you are not each other's type, both of you already familiar with how one-sided feelings can destroy a friendship, so better making sure at the beginning right?

It was now new years eve and like you planned with Joe in your last call you both were gonna drive over to a friend's house who's throwing a party to celebrate it together, in person this time.

Joe's gonna be at your place to pick you up in nearly 20 minutes and you're still sitting in front of your wardrobe in only your bathrobe and still wet hair, nibbling nervously on your fingernails and looking over all your clothes, eyes wide with panic debating what you should wear to look presentable for him.

Which is absolutely ridiculous because Joe has already seen you in your absolute worst states, coming over to you with pimple cream all over your face, greasy hair, and sloppy oversized shirts with holes and stains you couldn't even explain.

But you haven't seen each other for nearly a month now, well except for the few video calls but that's just different, and now you are a nervous mess, suddenly worried about your appearance and you hate it.

The buzzing of your doorbell makes you jump slightly, spraying the last bit of hairspray on your head and turning the music off, which you needed to hype yourself up, and speedwalking to the door, taking a deep breath before opening it.

Joe's standing in front of you in black slacks and a slightly striped white shirt, the last button undone and a necklace peeking out of it, and you feel your heartbeat throbbing in your ears.

With a happy call of your name, he went straight into a hug and you suddenly felt distracted by the smell of his perfume, still the same one you smelt a thousand times but different regardless, Like his arms around you, squeezing you firmly into him, it's like your sensory perception is on high alert and suddenly everything feels more intense.

The car ride to the party is awkward to say at least, your nerves preventing you from coming up with anything other than occasionally humming or nodding as an answer, and after a few more tries from Joe he gave up, thinking maybe you're just nervous again because of all the people that are gonna be there and needed a few more minutes for yourself, so the car becomes silent and you hate it because that was your least concern right now, you felt like a bad friend, not seeing each other for a month and you can't even talk to him because this bloody nervous feeling just won't go away. So you both just stare at the road in front of you.

It's loud and full and lights flickering everywhere and you're so overwhelmed and tense that the weird feeling is forgotten for a moment and you're clinging to Joe, following him around like a lost puppy. Him ordering drinks for you both and chatting with people, trying to include you, taking you with him for smoke breaks, the only time when you both are separated is when one of you has to go to the toilet.

A few minutes before midnight a group of people had gathered on the balcony, with them you and Joe, shouting the countdown to the new year and watching fireworks exploding and illuminating the night sky.

" happy new year!" you screamed in each other's faces and laughed as you tackle each other in a big hug. People around you doing the same or walking around and giving the traditional New Year kiss.

Observing this you both looked at each other and shrugged while giggling, both slightly tipsy, and pecked each other on the lips. Physical contact wasn't unfamiliar to you, both being touchy when around people you feel comfortable enough, small kisses when saying goodbye, or cuddling together on your small sofa when watching some movies weren't new either. What was new was the feeling you felt as your lips met his.

As you separated you looked into each other's eyes, you always thought that his eyes were beautiful, even told him so, but you never felt such strong emotions when looking into them, unable to hold eye contact your gaze trailed to his lips, so full and soft looking and you never felt such a strong urge either to be near them. Subconscious you both lean in again and your lips met again but this time for a real kiss.

Warm flooded your body and you can't think of anything else other than the feeling of his lips against yours. His hands found the back of your neck to bring you even closer and you copied him, trailing your fingers through his curls, both of you starving for each other's presence and hungry for more, captivated and lost in your own little world.

Until a person stumbles into you and you remember again where you are.

Both of you catching your breath as you separated again, waking up from the trance-like state, emotional chaos whirling up in you again because you just made out with your best friend, with which you made a silly pinky promise and made very clear to not be each other's type to save this friendship but now you experienced the best kiss you ever had and when you look at his face now he is so beautiful and you can't help to want to kiss those lips again but you were also so overwhelmed because what the fuck does this all mean now.

Luckily Joe answers your questions as he leans in again for a third kiss, shorter but still as breathtaking.

" I know we promised to be not each other's type but do you wanna go on a date with me?" he asked against your lips and you both giggled as you nodded 'yes' before going into another kiss.

(reblogs and comments are very appreciated additional to your likes)

[arlana-likes-to-write]

Second Chance - Chapter 4

Masterlist

Warning: mention of weight loss, reader lowkeye almost blacks out, mention of medication, Tony is a good dad

Relationships: Tony x daughter!reader, Yelena x reader

Word count: 2.5k

Goodness, you were nervous. Your leg would not stop bouncing. The only time you had this much anxiety was your first doctor’s appointment. Every sense then, you got used to going alone, holding the weight of whatever news you received on your shoulders alone. Why was it so hard being here with someone? You glanced at Tony through the corner of your eye. He seemed equally as nervous as you waited for a nurse to call you back. He was hiding it, focused on whatever he was looking at on his tablet. But he was stiff as if he was glued to the chair he sat in. And when the nurse called your name, you both jumped - lost in whatever world your mind was creating.

You followed the nurse to the back, stepping on the scale to get your weight before heading to a room. “How are you feeling, angel?” She asked as you sat in the chair next to the desk. Tony sat in the chair in the corner.

“I’m doing good, Pam,” you made a note to remember the name of every nurse at the office. They were all saints and on your gift-giving list for Christmas.

“Are you just saying that because your father is here?” She questioned as she took your temperature. “97.8.” She documented it on your chart. Next, she placed the blood pressure cuff on your arm. It was your least favorite part, you hated how tingly your arm felt. You gave her a sheepish smile.

“Just the normal fatigue and light-headedness,” you admitted, looking down at the pattern on the floor. She took off the cuff and shook your arm to regain the feeling.

“Blood pressure is normal,” she sat down at the computer. “You’ve lost some weight since your last appointment. Are you eating?”

“Yes Pam,” you sighed. “Food just tastes weird.” You loved Pam but every time she was your nurse you felt like you were being scolded like a little kid.

“Protein powder and shakes,” she said. “And try small proteins throughout the day instead of three big meals.” You nodded.

“I’ll make sure she’s eating,” Tony said. “We all will.” You knew he meant that.

“Do you need any refills on your medications?” She asked. Your medical team had you on Zofran for nausea and a higher milligram of ibuprofen when your body ached. On the off chance, that ibuprofen wasn’t working you had muscle relaxers. But you didn’t like taking those. “Perfect. Dr. Carpenter will be right with you,” she said, standing up. “Take care of yourself, sweetheart, and call if you need anything.”

“I will,” you smiled. “Thank you.” Once she was gone, you stood up and sat on the exam table so you could lie down before Dr. Carpenter came in. You loved that man but boy he had a lot of energy.

“Hey,” you looked at Tony. “How are you?” He asked softly.

“Sleepy,” you mumbled, rubbing your eyes. He smiled.

“Well, we can go back to the tower and you can take a nap or we can go get lunch. Nurse Pam did say you need to eat,” you rolled your eyes and placed your arm over your forehead.

“I eat,” you said. Not enough but at least you were eating. You sighed. “Let’s go get lunch. Free food is good food.”

“Oh I’m paying now,” you smiled. Before he could come up with a clever retort the door opened.

“There she is,” Dr. Carpenter said, closing the door behind him. You sat up to meet the excited doctor. “How are you? Still kicking ass and taking names.” You smiled, rolling your eyes slightly as he gave you a quick hug instead of a handshake.

“Something like that,” you said. He turned his attention to Tony.

“And the man of the hour,” he extended his hand for Tony to take. The billionaire’s body shook by the intensity. “Dr. Lucas Carpenter,” he pulled up a chair to sit down closer to you and Tony. “When the nurses told me she didn’t come alone, I almost fell out of my chair. I’ve been telling this one to reach out to when we found out about her diagnosis but she’s as stubborn as her mother.”

“I’ve been beginning to notice,” you sighed, crossing your arms. They were talking about you as if you weren’t here. Dr. Carpenter laughed.

“I’ve been lucky to see this little firecracker grow up,” you saw Tony shift in his seat, the change went unnoticed by the doctor. “Somethings don’t change. So,” he crossed his right leg over his left and leaned back in the chair. “Have you told him everything?”

“Yes,” you said. Well, not everything but baby steps. “He and the other Avengers have been tested to see if they are a match.” The doctor smiled. You knew he was proud of you, you fought tooth and nail against him and the rest of your medical team to find a different way.

“If by chance we don’t find a match, what’s the next step?” Tony asked.

“Plan B,” you sighed.

“Plan B,” Dr. Carpenter repeated.

“What the hell is plan B?” The doctor grabbed a tablet and handed it to the billionaire. You knew it was your medical chart; blood work and other tests. It was a screen you’d stared at for a long time.

“Plan B is increasing her treatment,” he began. “Right now she is on a 3-week cycle- double dosage of chemo on week one, only one dose the following week, and then a week off.” Last week was your week woof, your double dose was tomorrow. “If we don’t find a match, she’ll have to get chemo every week and it be more intense.” Tony handed him back the tablet. You kept your eyes on the floor.

“What are the side effects of this Plan B?” He asked. The doctor sighed.

“Pretty much the same ones she’s experiencing now - nausea, fatigue, headache, and appetite loss but they could be more common and intense,” he explained. “It’s not even a guarantee it will work,” you stole a glance at Tony but he kept his face neutral. “However that is Plan B and we can’t get ahead of ourselves. We have to take it one step at a time, right?”

“Right,” you smiled. When you were younger, some kids were picking on you. You remember you sat in your room with your mom’s arms around you tight and you felt warm and safe. She said, ‘You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.’ Back then you weren’t sure what she meant, you just wanted those kids to stop being mean. But now those words were one of the few things keeping you alive.

*

“Thank you,” you said to the waitress who placed your order down.

“Let me know if you need anything,” she said mostly to Tony. She fluttered her eyelashes and stuck her chest out. You cringed at the pathetic attempt at flirting with a married man no less. But Tony paid no attention to her, more focused on putting ketchup on his food. You cleared your throat. The sound caused Tony to look up at you and then to the waitress.

“Oh uh will do,” she smirked and walked away, taking his awkward rambling as a sign he found her attractive. You chuckled.

“She wanted to fuck you,” you said, taking a bite of your sandwich and you were grateful it tasted okay. It was his turn to cringe.

“Please never say that again,” you laughed, sipping on your water. “So this Dr. Carpenter, you like him?” You could feel the underlying jealousy behind every word. You knew he touched a nerve every time the doctor brought up your mom or the past in some way. You nodded.

“Yeah,” you said. “He’s been positive during this whole process despite how serious it is. But I did like your idea of him touching base with Dr. Cho just in case I get sick at the tower,” you added on quickly. You did believe it was a good idea, especially with how uncertain everything was. He smiled.

“Good but enough about doctors,” he whipped his hands on the napkin. “Tell me more about you. Any lucky ladies or men I have to worry about?” You felt your body warm up and looked away.

“Nope,” you said. “Single as a pringle.” He raised a questioning eyebrow at you. “I’m not talking about my sex life with you.”

“I don’t want to know about your sex life,” he deadpanned. “As long as you are practicing safe sex. I can get you condoms or-”

“Oh my god. Stop,” you cut him off. His smile grew.

“This is nothing to be embarrassed about. This is an important conversation to have.” Tony tried to drop the smile but he was failing miserably. You groaned, covering your face with your hands.

“I’m not having this conversation with you at a sandwich shop of all places,” he laughed, taking your hands off your face.

“Alright, alright,” he said. “I’ll drop it, for now.” You glared at him. “But I’m serious tell me about your life before all this, the stuff your mother didn’t mention in her letters.” You stared at him.

“You read them?”

“Of course. I haven’t finished all of them but I want to know what I missed.” Oh. The more time you spent with the billionaire he kept surprising you.

“Okay,” you smiled. “Yeah, I’ll tell you anything you want to know.”

*

“I think that should be it, FRIDAY,” you said, crossing the last item off your list. You were in desperate need of groceries that weren’t going to upset your stomach, especially with your appointment tomorrow.

“Right away, Miss. Easton,” the AI said. “I’ll place the order and have them brought up to you when they arrive at the tower.” Perfect. The kitchen was put together, food was ordered, and your clothes were organized. Next on your list was to hang up some of your canvases. You swallowed an ibuprofen with a tall glass of water and ignored the ache in your bones. All you had to do was push through. You lifted a box onto the couch so it was easier to go through. Your mom always told you you had a spending problem. Whenever you traveled you bought something but you justified it by getting stuff from local artists or small businesses. Smiling, you put some pottery on a small bookshelf. Above the bookshelf, you wanted to hang up a three-piece art insulation that captured a pride of lions. You picked up a hammer and held a nail in your mouth when the room began to spin. “Shit,” you mumbled, resting your forehead on the wall.

“Miss. Easton,” the AI said. “I detect your blood pressure elevating. Should I alert the medical team?” You shook your head. That was a mistake. Black spots covered your vision and the nausea you were feeling only got worse.

“I’m good,” you managed to set the hammer and nail down before slumping to the ground. Your back was against the space on the wall and you grabbed onto the leg of the bookshelf. It grounded you and helped combat the room spinning. You whimpered and closed your eyes. Maybe you weren’t okay. You were just too stubborn to ask for help.

*

Yelena had a plan, all she had to do was unlock Kate’s door and plant the noise device. In a trade of Tony finishing it, she took the test to see if she was a bone marrow match. To be fair, she was going to take the test but why not kill two birds with one stone and ask for a small favor? “Miss. Belova,” FRIDAY said, causing her to stop in front of the archer’s door. “Miss. Easton requires your assistance.” Yelena looked towards your door and hesitated. With a sigh, she rushed over to your room. The door was unlocked and Yelena called out your name. Instead of you answering, the Black Widow heard a groan. You were sitting on the ground, head resting in your hands.

“Hey, Easton,” Yelena gently closed the door and knelt in front of you. “Hi, are you with me?” She whispered, rubbing her finger up and down your arm. It took a moment but you looked up at her, eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

“Blondie,” you said. “What-what are you doing here?”

“Miss. Belova was the closest one to you,” the AI informed you. “I asked her to come check on you when I noticed you were in distress.” You sighed, resting your head back.

“Are you okay?” Yelena asked. “I can go get Stark or Pepper or-”

“I’m fine,” you cut off her nervous rambling. “I just,” you let out a shaky breath, and your eyes locked onto her green ones. “I-”

“What do you need from me?” Yelena found herself asking. The words tumbled past her lips without a second thought. But the way you looked at her made her heart skip.

“Can you sit with me?” You softly asked. “Just until the world stops spinning.” Yelena wordlessly sat down next to you, knees bent and she rested her forearms on top. She couldn’t help but look around your space. It was the same layout she had. Unlike the apartment she helped clean out, the place was a mess. There were boxes everywhere, newspapers on the floor, and very little stuff hung up on the wall. Yelena knew it was because you were still moving in and trying to make this bare space your new home. The Black Widow expected the place to be organized, all pristine and decorated. You seemed like that type of person.

“Your place is a mess,” Yelena said, breaking the silence. You gasped. “I’m serious,” she continued. “I can barely see the floor.”

“Oh shut up, Blondie,” you laughed. “It’s a work in progress.” Yelena hummed.

“If you say so,” you laughed again, hitting your shoulder against hers. She liked the sound of it. Oh, that was not good.

*

He was running the swaps he had available. There were a few that were on their way - the Barton’s in Iowa, Bruce in New Asgard, and Kate, America, and Rhodey were on their way back to the tower. But he had to know, it was killing him. As he waited for the tests, he paced the lap. He had to be a match, he could do this one thing for you. A ding sound pulled him out of his thoughts and he rushed over to his computer. Negative. Negative. Negative. That one word was all he saw. Until he saw something different. A positive. Someone was a match. His hands shook as he clicked on the profile. But the name made his stomach flip. Morgan. It was Morgan. How the hell was he going to tell you or Pepper?

_

taglist: @likemick,

[statueofeden]

Eras of L4D2!CATS Art (and Nellis Cats)

(CW: badly drawn blood, gore (its a zombie game haha), mental health briefly mentioned (minimal!).

Hello, I'm Eden. (They/them) I'm 22 years old and been playing L4D2 since it came out for xbox 360 in 2009 (I was 8 - going on 9). I started shipping Nellis when I was about 11. It was in fact my first ship ever.

I decided to make this lil thing because i've seen some interest in my recent post with my Nellis!cats :P.

In 2013, I hated my human art so I decided to design and make as cats so I could draw them easier. I use to use drawcast on my ipod touch.

I would finally get a more stable style and made more of my fav ship.

Later on that year, my mom gave me her old laptop and I got heavily into animation memes and computer digital art.

my first computer drawing:

My first animation:

I was hooked. A few months later, Little kid me decided to play around with an AU.

Heres more info about the AU before we move on:

(AU animation Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsesYjlm_htaAxclwRcBg6uhhjtQEN3OY )

I dropped my first banger of the AU on Dec 14, 2013.

2014-2015:

I was obsessed with drawing Nick and Ellis as cats still. I had made many animations and drawings of them.

Before I was diagnose with BPD, I had an episode and created this gem it like to mention :

I had also dropped this banger way before that (important later, I promise)

I ended the year off with a remake of an old Nellis drawing I made in 2013.

^(2015)

^(2013)

2016 - 2017:

At the end of 2015, I got a graphics tablet for Christmas. Legit my second drawing was Ellis!cat.

Sadly in 2016-2017 I was going through alot and also developed a new hyperfixation on fallout 4. I kinda forgot about l4d2 otherthan a few mentions of it here and there. Honorable mentions of art:

2018-2019:

I was going through alot during this time in my life.

I would redesign my most of l4d2!cats completely. I highly preferred natural colors over the other designs.

L4D2!Cats:

L4D!cats:

Honorable mentions of animations:

2019 - now:

Im still making l4d2!cats content. I adore them still and still plan on drawing them until I cant draw no more.

2021 art:

2022 art:

2023 art:

Remember when I told you to keep the "get out alive" video in your mind. Well, Ive very recently have sketched out a remake of it. (Come see the improvement!)

^(2015)

^(2023)

Welp, I think that's all! I hope you've enjoyed this post! Any questions, feel free to ask! I may or may not have answers.

Some of you may know me, some of you may not. Either way, thanks for reading and sharing the love for left 4 dead with me! I hope to share more soon! <3

[mizusartsandprints]

So I haven't really drawn anything in like 7 or 8 years. Especially anything digital since I got out of college. But over Christmas I got a new tablet, and finally broke it out last month after my job let me go. This was the first thing I drew.

A scene from my latest posted fic of the New Dream Forbidden Love AU I am writing because I fell into the Tangled Fandom last year.

Is it good? Probably not. I did fiddling around for like an hour and half in Clip Studio, and again I haven't draw in years. Proportions and stuff are probably off, but I don't care. I am super proud of it, even thought I kind of forgot to draw the rest of the rooftops and color more Eugene.

[mamodewberry]

Holiday Fever

Time for the annual Sad Bastien Christmas drabble. Not too sad this year, but he's still not very happy about it.

Rating: G

Words: 1,361

Summary: Baz is sick and hates it more than usual. Good thing he has Chris.

Bastien preferred being cold to being hot. Much easier to warm oneself up than cool down. But with the constant chill in the air of Swiss winters, brought illness. Global pandemic aside, Bastien was what many would call a germaphobe: everything was cleaned and washed properly and handled with care, touched only when necessary. His parents liked the house tidy, yes, but he wasn’t sure when he himself adapted such hygienic practices. Something within his control perhaps. 

Christophe never felt the need to call him out on it. At least verbally. That crooked smile and the way those green eyes teased him with fondness without a word were unfair sometimes. Over the years Christophe adapted and contributed to Bastien’s practices, intentional or not. Even if just around him.

But no matter how careful he’d been, year after year avoiding indoor crowded spaces (although that was for an unrelated reason), potlucks, public bathrooms, etc he wound up sick. It didn’t make sense, how could his body betray him like this? He wanted to blame something or someone, but that was energy his brain couldn’t spare once Christophe had put him to bed. 

He didn’t like being sick. Hated it. There was so much to do, especially a week before Christmas. But mostly he didn’t like feeling useless. Not allowed to perform his duties he’d established in the household or professionally. When others took time off work for being sick, he was happy to have them away so not to spread their germs, and Bastien should feel the same about himself but… he was the responsible one that didn’t get sick. Took care of Christophe when he got sick, which admittedly wasn’t often (thank god). 

Feebly he relinquished his tablet with the to-do’s to Christophe, who rummaged through the drawers for his own stylus to use and a face mask. Bastien watched Christophe’s eyes widen at the line items, then soften. Not as bad as he thought or did he think Bastien was exaggerating? He huffed at the latter as well as his miserable predicament. 

“I’ll take care of it,” Christophe said.

“All of it?” Bastien was skeptical. 

“As much as I can.”

“Thank you for being honest.”

“I’m not incapable, Baz. Just not as thorough. The priorities will take priorities. That’s what bold means, right?”

“Right.” Christophe often accompanied him on errands. It wasn’t like it was foreign to him. He could do it. The shopping. The cooking. The cleaning. Read off reports to Josef. “Your license is valid, yes?”

“Yes it’s valid and yes I remember how to drive.”

“Right, of course.” Ugh his head was foggy. Why did fog hurt? “Your family’s party. What will--”

“We’ll see how you are in six days. Don’t want to cancel prematurely.”

“But I’m supposed to make the buche de noel. Your mother loves it so…”

“She does, but I know for a fact she’d rather you not worry about it and rest. And if we have to miss out this year, that’s okay. Maybe we can do something for New Year’s instead.”

No, that wouldn’t do. Bastien frowned. Christmas was more ruined than Christophe was letting on! “But…”

“No buts.” Christophe leaned in and pressed his mask-covered lips to Bastien’s forehead. “I’ll take care of things.” He then turned and bent over to pick up Sabine then placed her on Bastien’s chest. She pattered her paws in rotation a couple times before settling into a loaf. “Keep Daddy in bed.” 

Unfair. No one was allowed to move a comfy cat. 

“Get some rest, mon amor.” 

The next few days were torture. 

It hadn’t been the first time Bastien had been sick, but it no less made him feel awful about it. Mostly had been days he’s stressed himself out into a state of burnout that Christophe forced him into bed before he fell asleep at his feet and passed out. But this? Hearing Christophe downstairs in the kitchen and living space cleaning and cooking and sweetly humming, he didn’t like it. No, the humming he liked, it was nice. Everything else, though!

He was able to calm when Christophe brought him a meal and its taste was good. They’d lived together for years so of course he was used to the tastes of the house and could mimic it well enough. Yes they both ate well. The cake for the Giacometti’s party however, that Bastien knew was too large a task for his beau.

What was worse? Arriving empty handed or skipping it all together? 

By day five and the symptoms only lessening by fifty percent, Bastien knew they wouldn’t be going to Christophe’s parents. No dinner around the table, no cookie baking or poems for Samichlaus and finding the hidden gifts around their lovely home. They saw them at least a month ago, but a hug from Nina sounded really nice and now Bastien would have to wait. 

Christophe’s hugs would suffice. The ones Bastien allowed at bedtime before Christophe retreated to the guest bedroom because Bastien would not be able to live even more with himself if Christophe were to get sick, too. Sabine remained dutiful and at his side. 

Bastien wanted to tell Christophe to go to the Christmas market without him so he could still experience the joys of the season. 

“We went the second week of December, love,” Christophe reminded him with a smile.

Surely once wasn’t enough. Especially if they were going to miss the party and mass. 

“I’d never go do something I know you love without you. I have more than enough Christmas cheer here.”

Bastien frowned with skepticism. 

“Our eve meal is almost ready. If you’re up to eating.”

Oh he would eat everything in sight even if his stomach wasn’t entirely agreeing on solid foods at the moment. He wouldn’t waste Christophe’s efforts. Or disappoint himself. Too many days he dwelled on what he was missing out on for his own enjoyment. If Christophe said it was fine for him, it was, but Bastien couldn’t say the same for himself. “Yes. I would like to eat,” Bastien finally said, knowing Christophe was waiting for his answer. 

“Can we eat together downstairs?”

It was odd to be on this end of permission. Shouldn’t Bastien be the one asking to be free of his insisted quarantine? Still, he couldn’t deny how much he wanted to. “I’d like that.”

Christophe took hold of the comforter and pulled it back and offered Bastien his robe and toed his slippers toward the bed. 

Slipping his arms into the sleeves, Bastien took Christophe’s offered hand and stood into his slippers. It was unnecessary to need assistance down the stairs, but Bastien appreciated it all the same. 

Whatever Christophe had made smelled wonderful. 

As they descended, Bastien noticed the fireplace had been lit, the main lights dimmed, and a small table had been set up in front of the tree. Struck by all implications and sentiments, Bastien let Christophe lead him to the table and down into one of the chairs. He barely registered Christophe saying he’d be right back with their Christmas dinner.

When Christophe returned, a plate of fondue chinoise, mixed greens, and a single zimtsterne was placed in front of him. The star design on the fondue was charmingly homemade. And if it weren’t for how much he loved the cookies, he would have chided Christophe for putting dessert on the dinner plate. Judging by the shape and thickness of the frosting, Bastien knew they had to be Nina’s doing. 

Christophe returned with his own plate and two glasses of wine. “I asked Mother what they were having tonight and gave it a go. She offered to bring it over to us, but I convinced her a plate of her zimtsterne would be perfect.”

Being ill would dull his taste buds naturally, but the atmosphere, the thoughts and care put into it, it would be the most wonderful meal he’d ever had. 

He’d worried about nothing. Christophe took care of everything.

Christophe really was Samichlaus in his own way. 

Tears burned in his eyes. “All of it is. It always is. How could I expect anything different?”

[relastelvanni]

📖 2022

The week leading up to Christmas 2021, I was unwell. I was feeling very fatigued and burnt out as we all were. There wasn’t a lot of sun so I was likely Vitamin D deficient, right? Also I somehow lost 10 lbs between October and December without trying which didn’t match what I was eating - probably stress? Oh, but I feel really thirsty, and I can’t seem to quench it… that’s an odd symptom I can’t explain with burnout. It was that symptom that made me test my fasting blood sugars and sure enough, they were way over into diabetic levels.

🚨

On Hogmanay as I rushed to get my booster before the bells, I also went to the GP as an emergency for my blood test. The results came back and my GP wanted to talk urgently. On Jan 5th I was officially diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and put onto metformin straight away. This began a whirlwind of a year.

On the outside I seemed calm, on the inside I was a ball of emotion, but mostly shame. Shame that after years of warnings this could happen, I had to tell people what had happened. I felt guilt for making people around me worry for my health. I wanted to prove to everyone that I was okay and they didn’t have to worry about me. Maybe not a healthy attitude to take but from the moment I left that Doctor’s surgery and took a 2.5 mile walk home, I decided I was going for remission, end of.

I immediately went on a low carb diet of 130g of carbs a day and stuck to it religiously, I did not break 130g or tried not to. No cheat days, no snacking. Again, perhaps not the healthiest thing to do but I couldn’t bring myself to eat high carbs again. I started walking a lot more, walking three miles home from work in the winter. I went swimming, I got a bike through the cycle to work scheme. But most of all was the diet. It was tough and there were times I felt like crying. But my head told me “I put myself in this situation, you don’t deserve sympathy”. Urgh, silly head.

But despite that negative mindset, the physical side improved quickly. My sugars fell rapidly most importantly and as a by-product, I lost 15 lbs in the first month, followed by another 15 lbs in the second, starting at 255 lbs and ending March around 210.

Now those who know me will know I had no problem with my weight before - I was very happy as a chubby person because I went on a journey over the past few years of learning to love my body, throw off the shame I held against my body and show it off at the beach and the pool etc. So the weight loss for me was such a sudden shift in mindset too. I was back very quickly to a body I had before I learned to love my body… and societal pressure came back. That’s been a struggle this year is loving my new body without need for validation externally.

But in terms of the diabetes, by the end of March, I had my hbA1c checked again… and I was no longer diabetic! I had managed, with the tablets, to get the diabetes into remission. I can’t tell you how proud I am to have got to this point. All the hard work and hardship I put my mental state through was worth the result.

Over the next three months I relaxed the diet a wee bit and let myself eat a little more, but no where near the levels I was at before. My weight finally stabilised at around 180 lbs which is where I’m at now, meaning in total from max weight, I’ve lost 85 lbs in the last year. But more importantly, at the end of June, my HbA1c was still at a non diabetic level, this time without medication.

Since June, my weight has been stable, my sugars are still down, I’ve taken up badminton 2-3 times a week to keep me active physically (and mentally too). I feel fantastic physically and I’m so happy I’ve managed to turn around the diabetes. I still need to work on my mental state and work on some of those troublesome feelings I had at the start of the year as well as others. But aye, long post, but I’m still here, still going. Hopefully 2023 I’ll stay in remission. All the best to everyone 💛

[butterflyintochains]

Legacies And Love Stories

Summary: Adriana Fangio is 23 years old, and is the youngest grandchild of the five time world champion, El Maestro, Juan-Manuel Fangio. She's been slowly working her way up through karting and single seaters her whole life, winning glory at home in Argentina since she was a kid. All in the hopes of getting that precious seat in her beloved abuelo's sport. So, when Formula 1 announce their eleventh team, everything changes for her.

In more ways than just one.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

London, February 2025

God, this city is huge, bigger than Buenos Aires for sure. The flight from the sun-kissed summer of home to the rainy winter of London for the unveiling and team announcement was agonizingly long. But, she's had a couple of days to sleep it off. It was her 23rd birthday a couple of weeks ago. Now, today is the day where she finally gets to make her abuelo proud of her. She's ready to go at last, and slides abuelo's signet ring onto her index finger. The contract was nice, four years at 20 million. She'll be the first woman to have a permanent seat in Formula 1, she's sure her grandfather is smiling down on her today. She'll even be racing for his team and engine supplier. Alfa Romeo and Maserati. Finally, Adriana gets in her car to the O2 Arena. She'll meet her teammate there, it seems. ''Nice ring, miss, where did you get it?'' Her driver asks.

Adriana smiles, and says. ''It was my grandfather's.'' She never leaves home without it, it's the one thing she wanted most when she started driving. To have him with her. The drive goes by in silence, and she's dropped off behind the arena. The event manager comes to greet her. ''Welcome to the grid, Miss Fangio, it's been hard keeping this under wraps.'' The contract has been a secret from the media, and from most of the other teams, mostly to keep the heat off of her. She signed over Christmas.

Adriana shakes his hand, trying not to be nervous, and probably failing miserably. ''I can imagine.'' He leads her inside, and into the drivers' area backstage. All twenty-two drivers are here today, and all eleven cars will be unveiled. They'll be unveiled in reverse order to last year's constructors, with Alfa Romeo going last as the newest team. She looks for the other driver in an Alfa Romeo jacket. ''Adri?'' A Brazilian accent says.

Adriana is relieved to find him at last. ''Feli! Finally.'' They raced against each other in karts as kids, and have been friends ever since. ''Finally got a seat, about time.'' Adriana says to Felipe.

Felipe hands her some water. ''And, so did you! Abuelo must be so proud!''

Lance Stroll asks, still somehow wearing that green jacket. ''Who are you? And, how are you here?'' Some of the other drivers look to her, clearly thinking the same thing. ''My name is Adriana Fangio, and I'm here to drive for Alfa Romeo.''

The event starts, and the teams slowly whittle down as the driver lineups and cars are revealed. Then, finally, the newest team is revealed. Giancarlo Fisichella will be in charge of them, he announces the drivers. Felipe Drugovich - finally being given a proper seat in the sport. And, Adriana Fangio - racing royalty driving for her abuelo's team. David Coulthard says to Adriana. ''Adriana, you are making history, how excited are you to get going in Melbourne?''

Adriana says, turning her grandfather's ring on her finger. ''Very excited, looking forward to giving these boys a bit of a challenge. Can't wait to get in this car soon.''

Felipe adds, done with his questions tonight. ''I can't wait to get to Imola and see the factory.''

The event ends, and everyone goes backstage to hang out. Felipe and Adriana are taken aside to be given their new paddock passes, and to be asked about their driver numbers. ''I've had 34 for ages, so I'm keeping it.'' The woman types that into her tablet, and says after a second or so. ''Great, Miss Fangio, what about you?''

Adriana says, thinking of her abuelo's race wins. ''24 - for the races my abuelo won.'' Zhou isn't using it, so it's free now. The woman types that up, and says. ''That's great.'' Then, they're released back to the rest of the grid. Adriana finally relaxes, George adds her to the group chat as well. Finally, she's made it here.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bahrain - Preseason Testing

This is actually happening, and it's happening to her. She can tell that some of the guys are giving her weird looks as they leave the hotel for testing day. But, she has Felipe next to her, and abuelo looking over her. It is funny, in a weird way, women can't drive on the street here, and she's testing her F1 car today. They arrive in the paddock, and are led to their base. All in maroons, black, and white. Fisichella greets them both happy this afternoon. As does Felipe's engineer, Eduardo. And, Adriana's engineer, Pietro. Their head of race strategy, Francesca, sits them down in the briefing room. They get the lowdown on what's expected of them today, and go to their driver's rooms. Adriana changes into her racing gear, and goes through some exercises with the physio team. She and Felipe get into their garages, surrounded by their teams. ''Okay, Adriana, we're going for ten laps and one pitstop double stack. Then, if you two are comfortable, we can do another run.''

Adriana nods, and puts her earplugs in, then slips her balaclava on before her helmet. ''Sounds good to me, Pietro.'' She pulls her gloves on, and gets in the car. Her heart racing already. Felipe takes to the track first, and Adriana follows him. The car feels great, turns like a dream, and is just perfect so far. She gets in four good laps. ''How is it feeling, Adriana?'' Pietro asks.

Adriana says, turning down into the main straight. ''Feels great, perfectly balanced on the corners, tires are holding up well. How's Felipe doing?''

Pietro says. ''He's reporting the same as you, actually.'' They're joined by the Sauber and Williams cars towards the end of their stint. They finish their stint, and return to the garage. ''Good job, Adriana, welcome to the grid.'' Fisichella says over her radio. Smiling in her helmet, she says. ''Thank you, Fisi.''

After another briefing, they go in search of lunch, finding some of the others sitting around a table. ''Saw some of your laps, those cars are so good already.'' George says.

Felipe grins, swigging from his water flask. ''Gonna be an interesting season, don't you think so, Adri?'' Adriana gets back with her burrito salad, and says. ''Yeah, I'm already in love with the car. I tried the Academy cars last year, they're so slow compared to this.''

Max says, finishing his lunch. ''Gonna be fun seeing what you're both capable of, about time there was an eleventh team. Glad you two got the new seats.'' That means the world, the high praise from the four-time world champion. Adriana and Felipe are called for some photos and interviews. Then, it's back to the hotel for tomorrow.

After testing finishes, the now twenty-two drivers are taken for this year's group photo. Upon seeing it, a wave of pride hits Adriana, she's enshrined in history forever now. And, even better, Felipe finally has a permanent seat of his own! They get to do this together.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Australia - First Race

Her heart is in her mouth right now, her first qualifying run of her career. She's in the car, reading her data sheets again, for what must be the hundredth time today. Then, on go the gloves and steering wheel. Felipe is sent out first, and she follows him right after. Time to rock the world together as they said they would all those years ago. Five drivers will be knocked out in the new Q1 system. Felipe gets an amazing overtake on Nico Hulkenberg going into Sector two, and Adriana speeds past both Yuki Tsunoda and Esteban Ocon on their third lap. Pietro comes over her radio. ''Well done, Adriana, that's you and Felipe into Q2. Three tenths down on the Alpines.''

Adriana says, relieved to be in this with Felipe. ''That's great, very pleased with that.''

Next, comes their first Q2 as a team, they get out onto the track for their laps. This time, Adriana is ahead of Felipe, and hunting down some pace against Jack Doohan. ''You are two tenths down on Stroll, Felipe is one tenth down on you, keep going.'' Adriana gets the overtake, and makes it stick. She sees the green in her mirror replaced by maroon as they come down the straight. ''That's Q3 for you both, we are a tenth down on Alonso.'' Pietro says.

At the end of Q3, Felipe will be starting eighth, and Adriana is starting tenth. After qualifying, they go for media. ''Adriana, first race weekend, and to put your car on P10, how does that feel?'' Someone asks her.

Adriana swallows some water, and says. ''It's amazing, everything I've ever wanted, and for Felipe to start eighth is such a boost for us. Excited for tomorrow to see what we can do in the real race.'' Felipe joins her in the media pen, and someone asks them both. ''You two are of such different backgrounds, how will that impact this pairing?''

Felipe just says to the journalist. ''It won't, we've been friends for years. This Alfa Romeo lineup is going to be strong.'' Adriana laughs, and smiles up at Felipe. Something happening in her stomach that hasn't happened since their junior days. Something she hoped she'd gotten over by now.

The race begins the following afternoon, and both Alfa Romeo drivers are excited for it, starting near the front, ready to rock the world together. Adriana can see Felipe from her starting place, and focuses on the lights. She gets a good start, and sticks by both Alonso and Felipe for the opening stint of the race, Oliver Bearman in her mirrors for six laps until she finally makes the pass on Alonso when he goes to pit. On lap 27, she comes in to get rid of her hards in favour of mediums, coming out in 15th. ''The gap to Albon is three seconds, keep your head down.'' Pietro says.

Adriana finally gets her DRS open, and jumps on the throttle to pass Albon for 14th. ''Good overtake, Adriana, next car up is Colapinto in the RB. Gap is six tenths.''

After another tire change on lap 38, Adriana comes out in 13th, just outside the points. ''Where's Felipe?''

Pietro says. ''In ninth, keep on going, final stint.'' The laps tick down to 58, and Adriana comes home in 12th, one place shy of her first points. But, she's here! ''That's p12, Adriana, well done, and welcome to F1.'' Giancarlo comes over her radio. ''And, P9 for Felipe.'' Adriana chuckles while she does her cool-down lap. ''First points on debut for the team, that was such a good race.''

After the race and media, she meets up with Felipe. ''Congrats on the points, Feli!'' She hugs him.

Felipe smiles, looking slightly surprised with himself. ''Thank you, Adri, here we are, I suppose?''

Adriana nods, their arrival into the sport finally hitting her, they've arrived now, and there's no going back. ''Here we are.'' Who would've thought?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

China - First Points

Ten laps to go, she's in eighth place right now, Felipe is apparently down in eleventh. she's the best of the rest, with Carlos Sainz in his Williams breathing down her neck. She swallows some of her energy drink, and keeps her focus on the road ahead of herself. Abuelo looking down on her, guiding her hands as she steers. This is perhaps the most stressed she's ever been, especially after coming fourteenth in the sprint yesterday. But, she's got ten laps to get this done, and a race winner in her mirrors. Pietro comes through her radio, telling her. ''Gap to Sainz is four tenths right now, Adriana, you'll get DRS next lap down the main straight, keep forward, alright?''

Adriana says, voice tight from the anxiety of it. ''Yeah, what's my gap to Antonelli?''

Pietro says, after a second to check the screens. ''Nine tenths, but we're not concerned with him.''

Adriana gets to ticking this lap down, with nine laps to go, she gets her wing open, and opens the gap to Sainz for some much needed breathing room. The blue in her rear view turns to green quickly. ''Who is that, Pietro?''

Pietro informs her. ''That is Alonso, the gap is seven tenths, no need to worry.'' Alonso? One of her childhood heroes? She's about to outscore Fernando Alonso? Who just so happens to be driving a Newey car? Her lucky day. Eight laps left, then seven, then six. ''Six laps left, Adriana, keep it in the lines, and we'll be home safe soon.'' Pietro says.

She keeps focused on the track, no panic in her body at all for the first time since her overtakes on Gasly and Bearman ten laps ago. She's still got that Mercedes up in front of herself, but she's been advised not to do anything rash, so she'll leave it alone. Four laps, three laps, two laps. Then, somehow, she's on her last lap. ''Final lap, Adriana, keep pushing.'' Pietro says as she goes into the switchback. Then, she's halfway through her lap, now with Lawson's Red Bull in her mirrors. Where did he come from? No matter, four points sit in her sights. She rounds the final corner, and takes the flag. ''That's P8, Adriana! Four points in your second race! Felipe in tenth!'' Fisichella says.

Adriana is speechless, six points for the team! ''Vamos!! Vamos, Alfa Romeo! That was for abuelo! Two points finishes for Felipe too, tell him I'm happy for him!''

Fisichella laughs, and says. ''Will do, Adriana.''

In parc ferme, Adriana gets out of her car, and gets her hans and helmet off, balaclava with it, before running to Felipe in tears. He holds her, and says. ''I'm so proud of you.'' She's shaking, he just holds her. They go to the team, arm in arm. Sure, it's not a win, or a podium, but baby steps. Just as they walk back to the garage, the clouds clear for the sun. Adriana stops in her tracks to watch the clouds clear. ''Adri?'' Felipe asks her.

Adriana smiles. ''He's proud of us both, Feli.'' They get back to their drivers rooms, some mate already brewed for Adriana to take into media. She gets into the media pen with her gourd of mate, and is met by Franco and Gabriel first. ''That was amazing, Adri.'' Franco says.

Adriana smiles, her face hurting already, and says. ''Thank you, Franquito.''

Gabriel hugs her with one arm, and says. ''Enjoy this one, Adri, you've earned it.''

Adriana says, promising her friend and fellow rookie. ''So will you, Gabi.'' She's called for a quick interview with Sky, basking in this first point finish. Jenson says to her. ''Adriana, that was incredible, first points for you. You must be so happy.''

Adriana sips her mate, and says. ''I am, still shaking from it actually, and having both of us get points is even more special. Felipe and I want to do this together, and share in each other's happiness.''

After media is over, Adriana retreats to her drivers room, and gets some physio before going for a shower and eating something in the Alfa Romeo motor-home. Felipe joins her, they share a smile together, and link pinkies as they did when they were kids. Excited for Japan already.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Japan - The Alfa Romeo Tango

Lap 40 in Suzuka is going well for them both, this purple patch Alfa Romeo are in has lasted into the first three races. They're in the middle pack of the points contenders. Staring at the rear ends of both Alpine drivers. After a beautiful double stack for mediums, Adriana and Felipe are side by side, with both Haas drivers in their rear view. Doohan dives down the pitlane, and both Alfa Romeos get themselves either side of Gasly. Eduardo comes over Felipe's radio, sounding nervous about this manoeuver. ''Felipe, what are you two up to now?''

Felipe just chuckles, and says. ''Something we discussed after practice, that's all.'' The commentators must be going insane at there being three cars across the track, but, there won't be in a moment. They'll get their rear wings open soon, and take ninth and tenth. ''Get Pietro to tell Adri to overtake first.'' Felipe says.

Eduardo sighs, but obliges him. ''On it.'' And, in a moment, Adriana nails the overtake. Felipe coming out of the chain just after her, and overtaking her a slight. ''Car ahead is Stroll.'' Eduardo says. Felipe just chuckles, and begins to crawl up behind Lance. Adriana is right beside Gasly again in his mirrors. Felipe nails the second overtake, with Adriana slowing Gasly down, and jumps on the defensive to help her immediately after. He can't believe this actually worked. They'd been working on this on their bikes during track walk. ''Car ahead is Lawson, gap is one second.''

The race ends with Felipe in ninth, and Adriana in tenth. More points for the team, and they're in the top half of the individual standings too! They laugh together in the garage after post race stuff, Felipe watches Adriana slip her abuelo's ring back onto her middle finger. She's so beautiful. Her eyes sparkle when she looks at him. ''Are you alright, Feli?'' She asks.

Felipe swallows some water, and says. ''Yeah, just... got lost.''

After the race, the grid go out for some dinner at a place Yuki loves. Adriana watches on as Felipe chats with Max and Gabriel. She smiles to herself, there's no one she'd rather race with, she adores him so much, and always has. It's terrifying, with her name and all. He'd never hear the end of it with her. ''Adriana, are you alright?'' Carlos asks.

Truth be told, she's been feeling like this since their junior days. ''Yeah... yeah, Chili, I'm fine.''

Once back at the hotel, Adriana sits on her bed, bags ready to go for their flight out. She looks at her ring, and takes a deep breath in, and exhales. It's odd, nobody alive today in the sport saw her abuelo race, or raced with him. She's shouldering his legacy all on her own, with no one to turn to for information. But, this is her career first, and her first season of many, she races for both of them now.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Miami - First Encounters

Media day in Miami, a sort of home race by proxy for both Adriana and Franco. It is beautiful today, not a single cloud in the sky, and warm as well. Shame they're going to be inside for most of the day, except for the special helmet reveals for both Alfa Romeo drivers. Adriana thanks her driver, and gets into the paddock, met by her escort - Maya. Who tells her the itinerary for the day. A press conference with Alex, Ollie, George, and Pierre at eleven. A joint interview for both of them with Nico Rosberg at one. And, capping off the day, the helmet reveal at three. She's well used to this by now, six races into her career. And, at least it won't be the political nightmare it was in Bahrain and Jeddah. Adriana goes to put her things in her driver's room. She walks past hospitality on her way to the press room with Maya. Seeing several very pretty - if similar looking - ladies congregated around a table. Wearing thousands of dollars of jewels and clothing. ''Maya, who are they?''

Maya says. ''Oh, they're the girlfriends of your colleagues, they all look the same to me too, Adriana.''

They all also look like the kind of girl Felipe would rather go for, not her with her calloused hands and driver's neck. She doesn't voice those thoughts to Maya, but she does carry them into press. She's sure she must be zoned out for the whole conference, but she does her best to answer all questions she gets. Once that's done with, she grabs some lunch with the team and Felipe. ''Wanna go meet the ladies, Adri?'' Felipe asks her.

Adriana shakes her head. ''Not today, maybe tomorrow.'' What could she possibly have in common with them? What would they talk about? She's spent her life on track, or wanting to be on track. They haven't. She'll be racing this weekend, they're just here to sit in garages.

After their interview with ESPN, they have some downtime before the social media team come to unveil their new helmets. So, Adriana retreats into her room with her book and some mate. Francesca is no doubt cooking up strategies for the sprint and race with Eduardo and Pietro. Felipe is probably with the rest of the drivers. What she wouldn't give to get into her car right now, that always stills her mind.

The helmet reveals come quickly. Felipe's being a Brazilian carnival theme, and Adriana's being an homage to the Argentine community in the city. Felipe's includes the seal of Brazil on the top, Adriana's has the Sol de Mayo. ''Thank you so much, guys.'' Anna, the social media admin for the team, says.

Felipe smiles, and says. ''You're welcome, Anna.'' Adriana puts her helmet back in its bag, and says. ''You're very welcome, is that us done for the day, then?''

Anna nods, and says. ''Yeah, that's all you had to do today.''

Thankful to be done with media, Adriana goes for a walk of the track by herself. It's weird, and stupid, but seeing the girlfriends of the other drivers just threw her back into her school days. Seeing the same types of girls who would tease her endlessly for not being like them enough. Not having anyone to sit with at lunch because of being the 'weird karting girl'. ''Adri, are you okay?'' Felipe asks her, he must have followed her out here. ''It's stupid, Feli.'' She's 23, an F1 driver, a Fangio, and she's worked up over this? Of all things?

Felipe says, furrowing his brows. ''No, it's not, what is it?'' Adriana sighs, leaning against a tire barrier. ''It's just... seeing the boys' girlfriends brought up a lot of stuff in my head, that's all.''

Felipe mirrors her, and asks further. ''What kind of stuff, Adri?'' Adriana sniffles, trying so hard to fight back the tears and pain of those memories. ''All of them look like the girls who bullied me in school, called me weird for this life I've chosen. They'd leave me out of everything, tell boys not to talk to me.'' She adds, after catching her breath. ''And, like, they're all models. But, here I am in my team polo and leggings.''

Felipe bluntly says, placing a hand on her arm. ''And, you look even more beautiful for it, Adri. No one cares about them, the entire world is looking at you right now.'' He says taking her hand in his, her breath hitching. ''No one will ever treat you like that again, not as long as I'm here, I promise.'' Adriana is struck by that, her best friend's vow to protect her, his assurances to her. And, what's even better? He means it, all of it. She embraces him, and dries her eyes. ''We do this together, Feli.''

Felipe nods, and tucks some hair back behind her ear, her ponytail must be coming loose. ''Always, Adri.'' Suddenly, they draw in for a kiss, perhaps the beautiful day and private moment catches up to them? Adriana only feels her heart racing, and Felipe's gentle hands on her back. But, they reel themselves in just before the two Red Bulls - Max and Liam - round the corner. ''You two good?'' Max asks.

Felipe nods. ''Yeah, we're just fine, heading back to the garage.'' They walk back together, hand in hand.

The weekend goes down a storm for Alfa Romeo. Points in both the sprint and main race. They've only missed the points twice now. Avenging the losses of Bahrain and Jeddah. After media, Adriana gets back to her driver's room, showers, and changes. They almost kissed on thursday, and would have if Max and Liam hadn't interrupted them. She helps her team pack the room up for teardown, and goes to find Franco. ''Franquito, can I talk to you in private a second, please?''

Franco says, happily as always. ''Yeah, sure.'' They find somewhere out of the way to talk, and she tells him about the almost-kiss. ''You and Felipe... almost kissed?'' He asks, jaw on the ground. Adriana nods. ''Yeah, please, don't tell anyone, okay?'' Franco promises her he won't. Which is good. Somewhere in the back of her mind is anger at the Red Bulls for denying her that kiss.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Imola - Home Race

Alfa Romeo are home at long last, the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix is their team's home race. Adriana had to take a train into Milan to close a lease on an apartment there as soon as they landed, but the deal is done now. She's got both her apartment in Buenos Aires and Milan now. Neither she or Felipe have talked about the almost-kiss in Miami. They're treating it as though it was just a momentary impulse. Deep down, though, Adriana wanted that kiss. She's wanted that kiss since they met back in junior. But, she's content to just leave it alone for now. Today, before anything begins for them, they go to place a flag and some flowers at the memorial for Ayrton Senna. His memorial near the track where he died thirty one years ago. Felipe has the flag, and Adriana has the flowers. Felipe lets go of her hand to drape the flag around the statue's shoulders. Adriana places the flowers next to the statue. There's never a day that goes by where Adriana isn't carrying her abuelo's legacy, but today Felipe looks burdened instead. This is his legacy to carry everyday. ''It's strange, coming back here as an actual driver rather than a reserve, I feel him so much more now.'' Felipe says, slinging his arm around her shoulders.

Adriana wraps her arms around his waist, and says. ''He was incredible, set such a standard for all of us. I think he'd be proud to see you and Gabi on the grid.''

Felipe nods, and rests his head against hers, only three inches of height separate them. ''I hope so, all of Brazil is looking at us the same way they looked at him.'' He says. ''It feels like so much is on the four of us sometimes. Gabi and I with Senna and Brazil, you with your avô, and you and Franco with Argentina.''

Adriana takes some deep breaths, and says to her best friend. ''At least we've got each other, don't we?'' Felipe nods, and leads them back to the car.

The crowd ahead of the race on Sunday is a sea of maroon, black, and white. With plenty of Brazilian and Argentinian flags flying. Ferrari might have Monza and the Tifosi, but this is something special too. Felipe is due to start from sixth after a penalty from one of the Mercedes drivers, Adriana is starting from ninth. Francesca has them both on two stoppers, starting on hards. ''Radio check, Adriana?'' Pietro says as she waits on the grid.

Adriana says. ''Loud and clear, Pietro.'' The crews are given the hands off order, and it's just them on the grid. After the formation lap, they get to racing properly. On lap ten, Adriana realizes something. ''Pietro, I forgot to take my rings off, am I going to get in trouble?'' Pietro says to her. ''I'll check with the stewards, but you shouldn't, no.'' Adriana presses on, keeping Albon's Williams in her vision as she tries to come back from 14th after a mistake on laps seven and eight.

After the race, where she finishes one position shy of points in twelfth, Adriana gets done with media, and heads for a shower in her motorhome. After which, she gets the kettle on for some mate, She relaxes with a book. Not bad for racing on four hours of sleep last night. She's not stopped thinking of that moment from Miami since, even if they've refused to talk about it. She must fall asleep at some point, because the next thing she knows it's dark outside. The boys will have went out for dinner together, but she was just too tired to join them this time. Her phone buzzes on the coffee table, it's Franco. ''Hola, Franquito, que es?''

Franco says. ''Hola, hermana. Where were you tonight? Felipe was worried about you, so were Gabi and I.'' Adriana sits up on the sofa, and says. ''I raced on four hours of sleep, I just wanted to rest. I also can't stop thinking about Miami.'' She admits to her friend.

Franco asks her, probably the question she doesn't want to answer yet. ''Did you want the kiss with Felipe? Did you want him to kiss you then?''

Adriana swallows to try and get rid of the dryness in her throat. ''I did, and it scares me. I think I've wanted that kiss for some time as well.'' God only knows what that could unleash upon the world. The first male-female driver tandem, Brazil and Argentina, possibly dating each other? Is that even allowed? Could they lose everything over that? ''This could get interesting, Adri, you know that, right?'' Franco asks her.

Adriana nods, hugging her knees to her chest. ''I do, Franco, and I hate it, Fisi could fire both of us for this. But, at the same time, what if it doesn't hurt us? What if we'd be fine?''

Franco asks her, sounding like Alejandro right now. ''Are you willing to take that risk?''

Adriana says, resting her chin on her knees. ''Maybe? I don't know yet.'' She feels herself welling up, so wishing her abuelo was here to guide her. ''Dios mio, Franquito. I'm just scared. I love him so much, and I love this so much. I want both.''

Franco says, voice oddly tranquil. ''Then, have both. You're a Fangio, right? If you want both, have both.'' Can she? Does she dare ask for more than she already has?

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Canada - First Rain Race

Qualifying was really good, if a bit hectic with the rain. They've qualified tenth for Felipe and twelfth for Adriana. Neither are really used to rain yet, and the sunshine did not follow the gang from Monaco and Spain. But, it is what it is. Adriana parks up in the garage, and bails out of the car. Getting herself ready for media quickly. Maya shadowing her into the pen, she has no idea where she'd be without all this help from the team. The circus of it all is still something she's getting used to. But, she nurses her mate in her cold hands, and gets into the pen to do her rounds. Someone from L'Equipe asks her. ''Adriana, the team recently brought a new rear wing to Canada, how do you feel it's improved the car?''

Adriana sips her mate, and says. ''It's so much better on the straights already, our old one wasn't doing us well in Barcelona. Happy with our progress so far. We'll see tomorrow.''

Someone from Global News asks her. ''The gap between yourself and Felipe is so small, is it time for Alfa Romeo to have the conversation yet?''

Adriana shakes her head emphatically. ''No, and that conversation isn't going to happen. We're both number one drivers, and that's how we'll stay.'' She tries to ignore the feeling in her chest. Someone from TSN steps forward to ask her about Lance Stroll. ''Adriana, this is the first time this year that Stroll has beaten you both, he's one place ahead of Felipe tomorrow. Do you think that justifies Aston Martin letting Felipe go?''

Laughing, Adriana stirs her drink with her bombilla. ''Not really, no. One race of ten isn't a good sample size. We've beaten Aston Martin nine times this season. We all know why Felipe got dropped, and I'm glad he's my teammate now, so, thank you, Lawrence.''

The same journalist asks her. ''You say that, but don't elaborate on it, what do you mean by all that?'' He's trying to bait her into saying something stupid, and she knows it. She's racing royalty, and no doubt lots of people are waiting for her to mess up. ''I'll not be dragged into a war of words, but I'm glad to race with Felipe. I'd not do this with anyone else.''

Media ends, and Adriana heads back to her room to get some physio and change. She finds Felipe on her way to her car. ''Did you mean all of that, Adri?'' He asks her, eyes sparkling despite the rain. Adriana nods, and puts her bag in the back seat. ''Every single word of it, Feli. They were insulting you, and I won't have that.''

The rain continues into race day, causing a delay in proceedings after the parade. They'll be getting going in about half an hour. So, bored out of her mind, Adriana goes to grab some mate for herself and Felipe, and her truco cards. ''Wanna play?'' She asks him. Felipe takes his drink, and smiles brightly. ''Sure.'' They sit at the strategy table, and play cards while drinking mate. The rain still lashing down upon the Alfa Romeo garage. ''We'll be mounting up in 20 minutes, guys.'' Sporting Director, Alberto, informs them. They both nod, and get back on with their game and drinks, ignoring the whispers of the team around them, and the cameras. ''And, I think I've won.'' Felipe says.

Adriana leans over to look at his hand. ''Dios mio, felicidades, Feli.'' Felipe smirks, his face too temptingly close to hers. ''Obrigado, Adri.'' They tidy up, and go to get ready to get onto the grid. Adriana gets into her car, and belted in. She's pushed into her grid slot, and informed of the aborted start, they've docked five laps off the race. So, 65 laps instead of the normal 70. ''That's about what I expected, Pietro, yeah. Has Edo informed Feli yet?''

Pietro affirms to her. ''Felipe knows as well, yes.'' Adriana nods to herself, she'd never live with herself if they weren't being treated equally.

Neither Alfa Romeos score points this weekend, but they get close. twelfth for Felipe and thirteenth for Adriana. They get out of weigh-ins, and get into media. They do their lap of the pen together. As they did in Australia. ''Felipe, Adriana; that was a difficult race for you both, was there anything that could've been done to improve your positions?''

Felipe shakes his head, his hand coming to rest on Adriana's back as always. ''No, the rain was just too much for us today. We'll be fine come Austria.''

Adriana backs him up, adding. ''We've only missed points a few times this year, it's not going to happen every weekend. We're just happy we kept the cars in one piece.''

Someone asks them both. ''Outside of the Big Four teams, this is proving to be one of the best driver lineups on the grid, why do you both think that is?''

Felipe answers first, most comfortable in front of the media of them both. ''We're such good friends, and have been for so long, we're just enjoying this time together.'' Smiling up at him, and enjoying his hand on her back, Adriana says. ''We're also from similar places, and know each other really well. It feels like we're back in karts again!''

They get back to the hotel later, Adriana jumps in the shower, and gets herself ready for dinner with the rest of the drivers. She had no idea how much she would enjoy this year. She opts for a nice red and black dress and a white blazer. Team colours. Felipe is in a nice blue dress shirt and leather jacket. ''You look nice, Feli.'' She compliments him.

Felipe smiles, looking a slight bashful actually. ''So do you, Adri. Gotta keep up, y'know?'' Adriana laughs, checking her purse for everything she needs. ''Don't say that about yourself.'' They get going to the restaurant, and find the suite where the rest are. Felipe talks to Carlos all through dinner, and Adriana talks to Max about Argentina. ''It's gorgeous, you and Kelly would love it there, I'm sure Penelope would too.''

Max chuckles, and says. ''She's so proudly Brazilian, but I'll see if I can convince her for winter break.''

Adriana cheekily says. ''Convince Penelope first, my papa would go to his older siblings to try and get abuelo to do things.'' Max laughs, and says. ''I'll try that, yeah.''

After dinner, the Alfa Romeos get back to the hotel together, Felipe walking with Adriana to her room like a gentleman. They share a silent embrace, and close in for a kiss, the day must catch up to them at last. But, the sound of the elevator opening splits them up. ''See you in Spielberg, guys.'' Oscar says.

Felipe nods, speaking for them both. ''See you in Austria, Oscar.'' Adriana retreats into her room. and sits down on her bed heavily. Another kiss interrupted, maybe the universe is trying to tell her something? But, why should she, a Fangio, need to listen? She wants both, so she'll have both. It's what abuelo did when he married abuela, who was ten years younger than him. If Felipe feels the same, which she suspects he does, who's to stop them?

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Britain - A Family Affair

For the first time all season, both Alfa Romeo families will be at Silverstone to see them race! Felipe's parents and siblings have been flown in with Adriana's by the team. Austria was a really good weekend, and hopefully Silverstone will be even better. No rain due, which benefits them greatly this weekend. Fisichella is taking the two families to the racing museum today. The place booked out for them today, Their mothers look at all the old racing suits, their siblings go to see the photo walls, and their dads look at the old cars. Felipe and Adriana look at the record books. Felipe looks at some pictures of Senna and Prost from the old days. Adriana looks at some old photos of her abuelo, seeing him with her abuela. Their shared signet ring on his pinky finger. ''Feli, come here, check this out!'' She says. Felipe comes to join her, his hand on her back as usual. ''What is it, Adri?''

Adriana points to her abuelo's right pinky finger. ''My ring, he was wearing it here, see? With my abuela!''

Felipe beams, looking between her middle finger and the picture. ''He's not wearing it in the other pictures, maybe it was new that last year?''

Adriana nods, looking at the other images. ''I think you're right. Now, let me show you something cool.'' He takes her hand, leading her to the display of Brazilian successes here. Senna in particular. ''Rubens as well, he's here, Massa, all of them.''

Adriana says. ''We race for them, and abuelo. We're here because of them.''

Felipe nods, and says, looking down at her with love, making her head spin. ''We also race for ourselves, Adri.'' He is always quick to remind her of that, to take the pressure off. She doesn't know what she'd do without him sometimes.

After free practice on friday, Adriana bails out of her car, and get ready for debrief with the team. Times were good, and she's very happy with how things are going. They both took new engines for this race, their Maserati engines are a godsend. Then, Adriana catches up with her older brother, Julian, one of her three older brothers. ''I hope you know how proud of you we all are, Adri.''

Adriana swallows some of her water. ''I do, I carry that with me every weekend.''

Julian asks her after a few moments of silence. ''I also hope you know that you and Felipe are playing with fire.'' She does know, and it scares her sometimes, it's funny, going full send into Copse is nothing compared to this. But, she also doesn't really care. ''I do, but, Julian, I'm racing royalty, can't I have both?''

Julian says, his hand on her shoulder. ''For your sakes, I hope so, hermanita.''

They catch up with Felipe's younger sister, Camilla. ''Everything okay, guys?''

Adriana assures her friend. ''Yeah, Cami, don't worry.'' They head to Alfa Romeo hospitality for some lunch as a big family.

Sunday comes quickly, and is beautifully sunny. Their families are in their garages, and the two drivers are on the starting grid. Felipe in eighth, and Adriana ahead of him in seventh. Her abuelo raced here back in his day, and she will make him proud of her today. The Mercedes boys had to take penalties, and that's helped them both. The lights go out for the race, and Adriana sticks close to Oscar Piastri, Felipe in her mirrors. They come roaring out of Aintree and down the Wellington Straight.

On lap 20, Adriana comes out of the pits with fresh mediums. Felipe will box next lap. She's dropped to twelfth as they go into Village. ''No heroics here, Adriana, just keep it in the lines, alright?'' Adriana checks her mirrors, seeing one of the Racing Bulls. ''Got it, Pietro. Who's behind me?''

Pietro says. ''That'd be Franco.'' Adriana hums, and keeps pressing forward to close the gap to one of the Haas drivers. ''Gap to Bearman is three tenths, and you are four tenths faster.'' Pietro says as they head back down Wellington. ''Got it.''

Going into Brooklands and Luffield, Adriana closes up on Bearman, and goes wide into the National Straight. Her mama must be in hysterics as she overtakes five cars around Copse. ''You are in seventh again, Adriana, keep it up.'' Pietro says.

Adriana says. ''Someone check on my mother, please?'' And keeps driving.

On lap 40, she comes back out of the pits with new mediums on, and is still in seventh behind Norris this time. ''You are three seconds clear of Alonso, head down.'' Pietro instructs her.

On the final lap, she's still fighting Norris for sixth. Her abuelo guiding her as he did in China. They come out of Chapel, and Adriana gets the inside, overtaking him around Stowe. In the end, she comes home in sixth place, her highest finish yet! She's speechless on her in-lap, and parks at parc-ferme. ''That was incredible, Adriana, your abuelo would be proud. Felipe in eighth as well, before you ask.'' Pietro says. And, finally, Adriana can breathe again.

She meets up with Felipe, embracing him for the moment. Still unable to talk too much. Sixth at Silverstone, on her first race at the track. They meet the team together, this has to be the best race of the season for the team. Best part is, they're far from done, there's still so much work to do.

They celebrate with a big team and family dinner while teardown is underway for Spa. Adriana shares a look with Felipe, as though both want so badly to say something, but can't bring themselves to do it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Belgium - Point of No Return

Spa is just gorgeous, it really is. The best track in the world, and it's not even close. Fisichella takes his drivers for a tour of the track on a little golf cart as soon as they arrive in Stavelot. Another one of the original tracks where her abuelo raced, albeit with a far different layout to today. The trip from La Source to the Kemel Straight is a rush already, and they're not even in their cars yet. Felipe films the whole run on his phone, Adriana takes pictures as well. She wants to make a memory book of her rookie season. She's got pictures and trinkets from every circuit so far. The team are still riding the high of those points from Silverstone. And, probably will be until summer break after Hungary next week. That hits her as they come back to the garage, they've got two races until summer. As they're going inside, Adriana hears an argument from Red Bull, a man and a woman. ''Fisi, what's going on down there?'' She asks.

Giancarlo, ever a professional team principal, says. ''If I had to guess, Max's girlfriend has taken issue with something.'' Adriana rolls her eyes, thankful she never bothered to make friends with the girlfriends. ''She likes reminding people of her status as racing royalty.''

Adriana raises an eyebrow at that. ''She's not racing royalty, I am. Felipe is the holder of Senna's legacy too.''

Felipe laughs, his hand coming to rest on her back as always. ''Don't go telling her that, it'd burst her little bubble.'' Adriana shrugs, slinging her arm around Felipe's waist. ''Maybe that's what she needs.''

On Friday, they qualify eleventh and thirteenth for the sprint race after being top ten in practice. After media, they head for debrief, and go to grab some lunch with the others. Lewis looks pleased with his sprint pole, Max will be second. ''Any plans for summer, guys?'' Alex asks the two Alfa Romeos.

Adriana fiddles with the cap of her water bottle, and says. ''Buenos Aires, it'll be winter there, but I miss home.'' Felipe nods, and says to the table. ''I was going to head home to Monaco, but it's been so long since I went to Argentina.''

Liam gives them a knowing glance. ''So... you're spending summer together?''

Felipe shrugs. ''Why not? Our families have spent holidays together for years.'' Adriana finishes her lunch, and relaxes with the rest instead of retreating to her motorhome. She's one of this small group now, and will be for the next three and a half years at minimum.

They come tenth and eleventh in the sprint on saturday. And, qualifying goes swimmingly as well. Felipe in eighth, and Adriana in ninth right beside him. Right in front of the two Haas drivers, and behind Oscar and George. Seems like Red Bull, Ferrari, and McLaren won't be knocked from the top three positions just yet. Adriana gets into the media pen with a distinct feeling that something is going to happen tomorrow. ''Adriana, that last lap you put in was incredible, how are you liking Spa so far?''

Adriana giggles, and says. ''Thank you. I'm loving it here so far, One of the older tracks, and there's such an aura once you get here, you can really feel the history of this place.''

Another journalist asks her. ''Adriana, you are now the most experienced woman in Formula 1 history, how does that feel to you?'' Adriana thinks, her eyes welling up a bit at the magnitude of that achievement. ''It's huge, and humbling. I just really hope me being here opens up the doors for more women to be on this grid. I am so lucky to be here, and ready for the rest of my time here.''

After her rounds, she heads for a shower, and some physio after changing into some more comfortable clothes. She grabs something to eat from hospitality, and goes for a nap.

The race starts hot, really hot, seems like everyone is a bit punchy today. Desperation for summer, probably. Adriana gets loose of the Haas and Alpine cluster on lap 5. Following Felipe until their double stack on lap 19 for new mediums. ''God, this race is carnage already.'' Adriana vents to Pietro.

Pietro says, not impressed himself. ''Yeah, I know. Just, keep it on track, and stay out of trouble, Adriana.''

Adriana drives into Blanchimont. ''Oh, don't worry, I will.'' She gets on with maintaining her eighth place position, eager for points before the more difficult track in Hungary. On lap 29, Pietro says to her. ''Stroll has just shunted Felipe off at Blanchimont, safety car this lap.'' Adriana feels sick, Felipe was behind her the whole way after their stop. ''Is... is he okay?''

Pietro affirms, sensing her fear for him. ''Yeah, he's bailed out, and is on his way to the medics.''

Adriana takes her place behind the safety car, and says. ''I'll see him after the race, Stroll's fucked with the wrong team, I think.'' The safety car lasts two laps, Adriana keeps Lance in her mirrors, and break tests him up Eau Rouge. Playing cat and mouse with him all the way into Stavelot. ''Adriana, don't do anything stupid, okay?'' Pietro pleads with her.

Adriana says down her radio. ''Play stupid games, get stupid prizes.'' They've got six laps left when Adriana sees Gabriel and Franco pull up beside her, Lance still in her mirrors. The trio drive off without him, Adriana just ahead into Les Combes.

She comes in seventh, Gabriel in eighth, Franco in ninth. A South American midfield lockout. Just as it should be. She's told Lance had a tire blowout with old mediums on lap 43. Serves him right. Adriana gets her rings back on, weighs in, and does a quick media round. Desperate to see Felipe again. Maya escorts her to the medical center. Felipe is in a room there, in just his fireproofs, looking a bit rouged up, but no worse for wear. ''Feli, dios mio.'' She sits on the bed next to him, cupping his face in her shaking hands.

He runs his hands up her back to soothe her anxiety. ''I'm alright, Adri, no concussion, just a bit shaken. I'm alright.'' He says to her, voice calm for her. ''Good job on the seventh.''

Adriana says, trying not to cry all over her best friend. ''It was all for you.'' And, maybe it's the emotions of today, or the quiet in the room at last, or the lack of interruptions getting in the way. But, they finally, finally get that kiss they tried to have in Miami and Canada. It was so worth the months of waiting, the room melts away. Their two hearts beat as one. Felipe pulls her closer to him, afraid she'll slip away. Adriana knits her fingers into his hair. They slowly come back to reality. Sharing that same held gaze they always have. ''Feli... if we do this... you'll never be left alone, you know that, right?'' She's never been normal.

Felipe looks deeply into her eyes, as only he can. ''I'm never left alone anyway, Adri. I don't care. Do you care?''

Should a Fangio concern herself with the opinions of idiots? ''No, no I don't.'' He smiles, and pulls her in for another kiss, this one more certain, not rushed or feverish, just full of a promise to each other.

After she visits him, she re-joins Maya outside. Breathless, flushed to her ears, and beautifully happy. Felipe will be released this evening. Maya tells her she missed the podium ceremony. ''To be honest, Maya, I'm fine with that.''

Maya laughs, handing off her water bottle and some lip balm from Adriana's race bag. ''I can imagine.''

They get back to her driver's room so she can shower and change out of her sweaty race gear. Then, Adriana goes to update Giancarlo and the team on Felipe. ''He's alright, no concussion, he'll be back with us in a couple of hours.'' It seems odd to be talking about her boyfriend without him present. Her boyfriend, he's her boyfriend now! And, her teammate too! She's his girlfriend! ''Good, I'm glad he's alright. That crash looked ugly.'' Eduardo says, relieved for his driver.

Adriana says, because she knows this to be true in her soul. ''Abuelo was protecting him, so was Senna. They were looking after him today.''

Francesca nods, normally the rational strategist, but she'll not question her driver's spiritual side. ''I could not agree more, Adriana.''

That evening, the new couple relax in Adriana's motorhome. Just done with dinner, instead of going out with the others. The last thing they want is questions from the rest of the grid. They snuggle on the loveseat with some old movies, before heading to bed. Adriana curls up with Felipe, and kisses him for the third time today. ''I'm glad you're alright, Feli, I've never felt fear like that.''

Felipe kisses her head, placing her hand on his heart. ''I'll always be here beside you, Adri, no one will take me from you.'' He asks her. ''Did anything happen to Lance?''

Adriana yawns and says. ''A three place grid drop for Hungary and a fine.'' She adds. ''Not that we need to worry about that, I think he got the message.''

Felipe asks her, intrigued. ''Yeah? What did you do?'' Adriana leans up to kiss him, and says. ''I think you know.'' He chuckles, and they finally get some sleep together, ready to get to Hungary, and then they can hide out in Argentina for a while.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This will be part one of two or three, I'm not too sure yet! This has been such a fun story to write! Had this idea randomly one evening, and had to do something with it. I'm a sucker for characters with immense legacies to carry. Adriana is the youngest of Fangio's many grandchildren here. And the only one in motorsport. So, added to being the first woman with a permanent seat, and driving for her grandfather's team. That's a lot to handle for someone so young! And, a bit of forbidden, friends to teammates to lovers for a bit of spice.

Next part will focus on Summer break in Argentina and return to driving with Zandvoort, then we go from there.

Enjoy!