Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

An after party seemed like the worst place to confront you feelings towards your former teammate. Said party was in full swing; flashing lights and hyped music filling the dimly lit venue. The energy in the room buzzed with excitement as a few drivers and their teams streamed in.

Lando stood at the entrance, taking in the scene before him with a mixture of awe and apprehension. The main room was alive with activity, groups of people mingling and laughing as they celebrated another thrilling race day.

Taking a deep breath, Lando stepped inside, the noise of the party washing over him like a wave. He scanned the room, his gaze searching for a familiar face amidst the sea of revelers. Oscar followed close behind with his girlfriend.

And then, Lando saw him.

Carlos was standing in the crowd, drawing people inlike moths to a flame. His smile was infectious, as he exchanged thoughts on the race with his teammates.

Lando felt a rush of warmth flood through him just at the sight of Carlos, his hands beginning to sweat as their eyes met across the huge room. He couldn't help but admire how effortlessly Carlos commanded attention, his presence lighting up the entire venue.

They silently exchanged smiles as he and Oscar walked toward the open bar. He had already congratulated Carlos, but secretly he hoped to get a chance to talk with him again. Away from all the people, he missed having him by his side.

He didn’t want to address he way he felt around Carlos. It was such a different experience to when they had worked closely for McLaren in the past. Now every conversation they had Lando could always hear his heart beating in his chest. Maybe it had been the distance, not seeing Carlos as often as he did made him overthink their interactions. They’d played fifa, hung out, all normal just as before. Except now Lando noticed when they sat closer together, or the way Carlos would laugh at one of his dumb jokes.

God, I need a drink.

It wasn't the first time Lando had turned to alcohol instead of really thinking about Carlos. Sometimes the only way to silence the relentless voice of doubt in his mind was to drown it out with the burn of alcohol.

“Lando, you look like you're havin' a good time!" Daniel exclaimed, clapping Lando on the back with a grin. "You sure you're not seein' double yet?"

Lando chuckled, his laughter bubbling up as he shook his head. "Not yet, mate, but give me another hour and order me a cab yeah?”

Tonight, the need for escape was stronger than ever. The sting of finishing 5th in the race lingered like a bitter taste in his mouth, a reminder of his shortcomings. He couldn't shake the fact that he was falling short, that victory always remained just out of his reach.

And so, he drank.

With each glass of whiskey, Lando felt the walls around his heart crumbling. It was a temporary reprieve, a fleeting sense of relief from the relentless pressure that weighed on his shoulders like a burden.

His movements became unsteady after a while, his laughter bordering on manic as he lost himself in the haze of the party. On one hand, Lando couldn't help but feel a surge of pride for Carlos's achievements on the track. He knew firsthand the blood, sweat, and tears that went into each race, the relentless pursuit of perfection that drove them both to push themselves to the limit. And seeing Carlos stand on the podium, his name in lights for all the world to see, filled Lando with a sense of joy and pride that bordered on awe.

No, he was in awe.

He found himself fixating on the way Carlos's smile lit up the room. Why did he keep seeing him very time he looked around into the party.

"He's so... so...,"

His words slurred as he leaned against the wall for support. "Like, seriously, have you seen his smile? It's, like, blinding."

“Mate, I’m headed out, you know the hotel right? Or do you prefer me asking someone to stay with you so you don’t get lost trying to find your way back?” Oscar patted his back, always attentive to others. Lando was happy to have a teammate like him.

“I’ll be good bro, thanks for the thought,” the brunette waved him off with a grin.

With each passing moment the alcohol fogged his mind and clouding his judgment.

Stop fucking thinking about him Lando.

And as he watched Carlos move through the crowd with a smile on his lips and a twinkle in his eye, Lando couldn't help but feel a surge of something again. An acknowledgment of his feelings for his friend. But try as he might, he couldn't seem to find the words to express what was in his heart, the alcohol rendering him tongue-tied and clumsy.

Ok time to go.

-

As Lando stumbled out of the chaotic party, the cool night air offering a welcome respite from the oppressive heat of the venue, he found himself leaning against a nearby wall, trying to steady himself as he fumbled for his phone.

His eyes adjusted to brightness. His fingers clumsily swiping at the screen as he tried to make sense of the digital map in front of him.

The bright lights of the city blurred together, making it difficult for him to focus. He squinted at the screen but the words and symbols seemed to get away from him.

"Great," he mumbled to himself, his speech slightly slurred from the alcohol. With a frustrated sigh he frowned at the screen, trying to remember how he had managed to do this so often.

"Maybe... maybe I should just call a cab," he muttered, his confidence wavering as he glanced around at the unfamiliar surroundings. But even the simple act of finding the right app on his phone proved to be a daunting task in his current state. He wasn’t sure when he started tearing up.

The whole day was fucked; his racing, the stupid party, and now he couldn’t even go home. He couldn’t cry, not on the street.

Fuck, I need to-

"Hey, Landito,” a familiar voice called out a familiar nickname, accompanied by the sound of footsteps approaching from behind.

Lando turned to see Carlos walking towards him, a concerned expression etched on his face. Despite the haze of alcohol clouding his mind, Lando couldn't help but feel happy to see him. Until he realized he was fucking crying.

“Ay, are you ok?” Carlos put a hand on his shoulder.

"Hey mate," Lando slurred out as he tried to straighten up.

“I was... uh, I’m ok,” Lando wiped his tears,” just wanna go home.” He laughed at the fact that of all the moments they could’ve ran into each other tonight it was when he felt like shit.

Carlos nodded, "I can see that," he replied with a chuckle. “But it looks like you could use a bit of help getting there."

"Definitely," Lando mumbled, his words tinged with regret. He stood up from where he had been leaning on the wall, his head fuzzy. His feet felt like they were jello, suddenly leaning on Carlos for support.

“Sorry, are you… also leaving?”

Carlos waved off his apology with a dismissive gesture, a reassuring smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Don't worry about it," he said, his tone gentle but firm.

“We all have our moments. Now, let's get you sorted, yeah?" his Spanish accent infusing his words with a soothing cadence.

With Carlos's help, Lando managed to order a cab, only to realize with a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach that he had forgotten the name and address in his drunken stupor.

"I, uh, I think I might've forgotten where I'm staying," Lando admitted, his eyes falling closed. Shit day.

His eyes clouded up again, tears threatening to show at any second. “Call Oscar, maybe, or… I don’t know, fuck.”

One hand in his hair and the other, wait that wasn’t his hand.

Carlos stood closer, his hand in Lando’s hair.

“Aye Lando, I remember you were a sad drunk. Don’t cry, please.”

Carlos lightly chuckled, sympathetically, his eyes sparkling with a bit of amusement. "You can crash at mine for the night.”

They were both quite on the way to wherever Carlos was staying at. If there was one thing Lando was going to do while drunk, it was to not think about his actions.

As they finally arrived at Carlos's hotel, Lando struggled to keep his balance as he stumbled out of the car, his legs feeling like jelly beneath him. Carlos looped an arm around his waist, supporting him as they made their way up the elevator to the hotel door.

Once inside, Lando collapsed onto the couch with a relieved sigh, his limbs feeling heavy and leaden with exhaustion. Carlos hovered nearby, concern covered his face as he watched over his friend with a mixture of fondness and worry.

"You're a good friend, Carlos," Lando slurred suddenly, his words tumbling out in a drunken jumble. "Like, a really good friend. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Carlos smiled softly, his heart swelling with affection. "Let’s get you settled for the night, yeah?"

With Carlos's help, Lando managed to make his way to the bedroom, his mind swimming with a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. As he collapsed onto the bed with a grateful sigh, he couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for the one thing he knew he could never have.

I’m staying with Carlos

The realization hit him like a ton of bricks. For the tiniest moment he had sobered up. So what he was staying with Carlos, he still couldn’t have him. Have Carlos? What would that even look like.

"Carlos," he murmured softly, his voice barely audible above the quiet of the spacious room. He didn’t even register when he’d spoken. Let alone what he wanted to say.

Carlos froze in the doorway, “I’ll sleep on the couch, don’t worry. I’m just going to get you water.”

The Spaniard came back with a glass of water leaving the lights off and instead turned on the bedside lamp. He threw something at Lando.
Sweatpants.

“Lando, me escuchas? Get up to change and drink some water.”

Before Lando knew what was happening he was being pulled up to sit on the edge of the bed.

His ears were ringing and he wanted to throw up his guts. “Ugfhhh, can’t… to tired Carlos.”

“Lift up your hands Lindo.”

Please… why do you call me that

His tone was calming however Lando only registered the nickname. He’d heard it before, usually when he’s drunk.

“Carlos," he murmured even softer than before. This time he said it because of how close they were. Lando sighed as Carlos lifted the hem of his sweater over his head. He looked up, because he was still sitting down while Carlos was standing above him.

“Here,” Carlos put the bottle of water into his hand.

His eyes were a striking shade of deep brown. Which of course Lando already knew, however this time he can’t stop the warmth from spreading. Was he fucking crazy? They had been staring at each other for at least a solid minute, or maybe it was the alcohol.

"You- how are you.. so pretty without even trying?”

Carlos seemed to freeze. Instead of drinking the water Lando let his hand reach for Carlos, who was within his grasp.

“Hmmm, sleep well Landito. I’ll see you in the morning, yeah?”

Before his mind could stop his own body, Lando clung to Carlos.

“Stay… here.” Please

Lando could feel the steady rhythm of Carlos's breathing beside him, the gentle rise and fall of his chest a comforting anchor amidst the swirling chaos of his thoughts. He honestly thought Carlos wouldn’t go for it. And here they were: sharing a bed, Lando wearing Carlos’s clothes, breathing in his comforting scent, still with a buzz from earlier that night.

And then, unable to contain the emotions bubbling up inside him, Lando began to ramble, which is never good.

"Hey," he shifted closer to his friend, their bodies brushing against each other in a tender caress. "I’m sorry I ruined your night. I didn’t even congratulate you for placing 3rd. You did amazing, I….. -what. That’s so crazy and trust me I feel aw-“

Carlos's hand found its way to Lando's hair, his touch sending a shiver of longing coursing through Lando's entire body. It was as if all the barriers he had carefully erected around his heart had come crashing down in an instant, leaving him feeling exposed in the face of his overwhelming desire for the man beside him.

"You did congratulate me, you probably don’t remember right now," Carlos sighed. “It’s 1 in the morning Lando, get some sleep. You’re not yourself right now.”

"But I can't help it. I want to be close to you.“

“Ay, you want to cuddle?” He seemed to joke back.

He turned to face the older man, finally giving in to his desires. If rejection came he hoped he could blame the alcohol.

Their faces inches apart, Lando could feel the warmth of Carlos's breath against his skin, his heart pounding in his chest while his mouth was dryer than a desert. The Spaniard was half asleep.

With a surge of courage that he hadn't known he possessed, Lando slowly reached for the hand on his head, bringing it down. His lips found their way to the palm of Carlos's hand, his kisses soft and lingering. Expressing what he couldn’t say.

Carlos was wide awake now, watching as Lando let go of his hand. The line between friendship and something more had never felt so blurred. Lando's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as he realized just how much of a mess he must look right now. It was as if time itself had slowed down, stretching out the moment until it felt almost unbearable.

Before the embarrassment got to him though, Lando leaned in to close the gap between them.

Carlos's lips were soft and tingled beneath his own, their warmth was inviting. It was only a peck but Lando wanted more, so much more.

Carlos was unresponsive and Lando’s heart dropped. Hesitantly, Carlos kissed back. Lando felt himself falling deeper and deeper into the depths of his desire. Carlos moaned lowly into his mouth, hands cupping his face. Lando latched his hands onto Carlos’s neck. Their bodies pressed together, their fingers tangled in each other's hair; the only thing that could be heard was their heavy breathing, and it was like music to Lando’s ears.

Carlos abruptly pulled back, breathless.

“Lando, we can’t.”

By now Lando was too far gone, “why not?” He continued the kiss and Carlos complies quickly, only to quickly come to his senses and push Lando back.

“You’re drunk.”

“Please,” he breathed out, still on the high of kissing his ex-teammate. He hoped with everything in him this wasn’t some hyper realistic dream that’d be gone by the morning.

“Lando I’m not going to do this while you’re intoxicated. Please understand,” Carlos tried to explain. 

“Do what? Make out with me?” He didn’t mean to sound annoyed. He honestly didn’t know how this was going to change them. He hadn’t thought that far ahead, because he knew he’d have a panic attack tomorrow.

“Hey don’t be upset, you’re not in a clear, you know um, head space.”

Carlos wrapped both arms around the f1 driver.

Lando snuggled closer to Carlos, his heart fluttering with a mixture of contentment and nervous anticipation.

“But i just need you to-“

"We can talk about it in the morning, Lando," he replied, his voice soft with reassurance. He was obviously tired, Lando felt like he couldn’t wait till morning.

”Okay but-” “Lando, I’m not kissing you while you’re drunk, and I’m not discussing what just happened while you’re drunk.”

”Fine, fine. But I was just gonna say that your nice to kiss. Oh and that I better not wake up alone. I’ll actually cry.”

”Sleep, you’ve had a long day. I’m not going anywhere lindo.”

There it was again.

He gave into his heavy eyelids and the last thing Lando felt before falling asleep was a gentle kiss to his forehead. He was so fucked tomorrow morning.

Chapter Text

Carlos stirred from his sleep, his eyelids fluttered open to reveal the soft glow of dawn coming into the hotel room. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he found himself with the familiar weight of Lando's arm on his stomach and his hand on Carlos’ chest.

With a heavy sigh, Carlos shifted slightly. The memory of their kiss from the night before lingered in the air.

Slowly, the events of the previous night came flooding back to him, from seeing Lando enter the venue to kissing him goodnight. He couldn't help as anxiety washed over him at the memory of Lando's unexpected kiss.

Turning onto his side, Carlos glanced over at the sleeping Lando beside him, his heart clenched at the sight of his peaceful expression.

Guilt. That’s really all he felt.

How could Lando, with all his charisma and charm, have possibly wanted to kiss him?

He had always admired Lando from afar, drawn to his infectious energy and magnetic personality, but the idea that Lando could harbor feelings for him seemed like a lot to take in. He had thought about what kissing Lando would feel like a few times in the past, however he had never in a million years thought that Lando thought about kissing him back.

And yet, the memory of Lando's lips against his own lingered in the recesses of his mind. Carlos couldn't deny the undeniable chemistry that sparked between them, nor could he ignore the flutter of excitement that stirred within him at the thought of exploring whatever  it was Lando wanted.

But as he laid there, conflicted with various emotions, guilt overwhelmed Carlos as he realized the full extent of Lando's intoxication the night before. How could he have given in to his own desires when Lando was in such a vulnerable state?

Carlos reached out to gently brush his fingers against Lando's cheek, his touch tender and remorseful. He knew that they needed to talk about what had happened, to confront the feelings that lingered between them, if there were any.

Oh God, what if Lando didn’t even actually have any feelings for him? What if he was just drunk out of his mind? What if-

Lando stirred beside him, interrupting his thoughts. Mierda. Should Carlos get up, or pretend to sleep?

With a yawn, Lando stretched lazily. Despite the remaining traces of alcohol fogging his mind, Lando felt giddy and nervous at the same time. With a small grin, Lando turned onto his side to face Carlos, his heart skipped a beat when he found Carlos half awake, looking back at him.

"Morning," he murmured softly, his voice still thick with sleep. His morning voice sent a flutter of excitement coursing through Carlos’s veins.

Carlos gave a sleepy smile that seemed to make Lando blush. That was a good sign.

"Morning," he replied, his voice coming out softer than he had ever heard it. They had a few silent moments before Carlos had to get his thoughts out.

“So, about last night..." Carlos began tentatively, his voice trailing off as he sat up in bed.

Lando's playful grin faltered slightly, his gaze flickering with a hint of apprehension. "Yeah, about that..." he replied, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

“Do you remember?” Carlos wasn’t sure how much Lando could recall.

“I’d be crazy to forget, no?” He still seemed a bit unsure, however the teasing came naturally.

Lando drove him insane sometimes.

Taking a deep breath, Carlos pressed on, determined to address the elephant in the room. "I just wanted to say... I'm sorry if things got a bit out of hand last night. I didn't mean to take advantage of the situation, especially when you were..."

Lando's expression softened, his hand reaching out to gently touch Carlos's in a silent gesture of reassurance. "Hey, it's okay," he replied, his voice gentle but firm. "I wanted to kiss you, Carlos.” Lando brushed both hands through his curly hair. “God, I should be the one apologizing for putting you in that position, I’m sorry.”

Carlos's eyes widened in surprise, "You... you did?" he questioned, his voice barely above a whisper. It honestly seemed to good to be true.

Lando nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, and I still do," he said, his gaze unwavering as he met Carlos's eyes. Bold.

"And now you say something,” Lando broke the momentary silence, trying so hard to not be awkward.

For a moment, Carlos was at a loss for words, the weight of Lando's confession settling over him like a warm blanket. But then, with a surge of courage that he hadn't known he possessed, he leaned in closer.

“Are you sure about this?” He asked once more just for reassurance.

“Carlos, please..”

Their lips met once again, this time with so much more confidence on both ends. Carlos melted into the kiss, his heart pounding in his chest as he surrendered to the intoxicating sensation of being held in Lando's arms. The McLaren driver swiftly pulled himself up onto Carlos’s lap, gaining a moan from him.

As they deepened the kiss, Carlos found himself losing himself in the moment. His fingers traced gentle patterns on Lando's back. He was glad for the lack of a shirt because in the morning sunlight, he could admire Lando’s fit upper body.

Pulling away slightly, Carlos gazed into Lando's eyes, his own filled with a mixture of awe and vulnerability. His hands traveled to Lando’s hips, and they fit so perfectly together.

Carlos hesitated, his lips lingering near Lando's before he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to the curve of his neck. Lando's breath hitched at the unexpected touch, a shiver running down his spine as he savored the sensation. His arms wrapped around Carlos’s own neck to give him more access. With that Carlos continued. His kisses turned wet, letting his tongue explore the younger’s collar bone.

”Lindo..” the nickname rolled off his tongue seamlessly.

Meanwhile Lando hummed in pleasure, both hands pulling at Carlos’ black hair. It was so soft compared to Lando’s brown hair. His hips moved instinctively.

That got a reaction from Carlos, as he moved Lando onto his back on the messy bed.

Carlos genuinely lost track of time, he only felt, saw, and smelled Lando. His breath still had a hint of alcohol, his cologne intoxicating.

Their kisses turned slow and Carlos is left to wonder how he went so long only imagining this.

He’s partially hard in his own pjamas and he doesn’t know how far they’re going in one morning. They shouldn’t, right? They should take it slow, have a real conversation.

On that note Carlos let their lips separate naturally. They both looked like a wreck, smiling like fools.

They both laid in bed for a few minutes afterwards. The Ferrari driver knew it would have to end eventually. He had his flight back to Spain sometime in the evening. He had to-

“Lando?” His voice sounded calm enough.

“We should talk, no?”

“What do you want to talk about?” Lando laughed at himself lightly.

“Lando we just made out.” He was confused as to what that meant for them. His tone was more serious compared to Lando’s.

“Friends make out all the time.” His tone was still playful, shrugging.

Ouch, okay friends.

“So we can make out all the time?” What was it that Lando wanted? Carlos didn’t care at this point, make-outs, friendships, he just wanted Lando.

“Is that what you want, mate?” Lando managed to stay serious.

“I’ll always be your number one supporter you know. Even if you want to pretend this never happened, I’ll do that.”

Carlos knows he’s being given an out. But again, he doesn’t want out.

“If you think I want that I don’t think you’re the Lando I made out with.” Now he feels satisfied.

Friends, that make out, sometimes. Carlos wasn’t sure if his heart could handle it.

Chapter Text

Fuck. WHAT THE FUCK.

Lando screamed into his pillow when he received the text from the Ferrari driver. He was so fucked. There was no way he’s kicking his feet over a simple text.

He couldn’t get his mind off it. As Lando laid in his bed on morning of the China Grand Prix media day, a sense of anticipation hung heavy in the air. With the events of the past few days still fresh in his mind, nervous energy coursed through his veins.

Dragging himself out of bed, he padded over to the window and peered outside, the early morning sunlight making him feel warm. Taking a deep breath, Lando shook off his sleepiness and made his way to the kitchen, pouring himself a cup of coffee.

With a glance at the clock, Lando realized he needed to get moving if he wanted to make it to the track on time. Hastily finishing his coffee, he made his way to the bathroom, the sound of running water filling the room as he splashed his face and ran a hand through his hair.

Dressed in his team gear, Lando checked his reflection in the mirror one last time before grabbing his keys and heading out the door. The familiar hum of his car greeted him as he climbed behind the wheel, the engine roaring to life as he pulled out onto the street.

As he made his way to the track, Lando couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that bubbled in his chest. The China Grand Prix was waiting.

-

The practice started and Lando was just as nervous as he usually was before a race, when did it get easier?

With each passing lap, Lando pushed himself to the limit, his focus unwavering as he hunted down the cars ahead with relentless determination. The roar of the engine filled his ears, drowning everything else out. Lando got p1 in sprint qualifying. He was more than happy about it, it had him hopeful for the race. He noted that Carlos got p5 after Max.

Afterwords they saw each other and all was normal. Honestly they’d been doing this long enough that nothing was awkward, even after that night. Lando was glad they could act professional, because internally he wanted to get down on his knees and-

God he looks good in red.

He almost couldn’t help but smile as they held hands a second too long. He felt warmth creeping up to his ears and face. Hopefully his blush wasn’t noticeable.

Then came qualifying.

In a Q1 Lando ended up p4. Behind Max, Checo, and Fernando. During Q2 Carlos spun his Ferrari into the wall on the exit of the final turn, causing a red flag. He managed to tour back to the pits, minus his front wing, and rejoined the session to finish in third.

As widely predicted, Max secured the pole position, with Checo completing a Red Bull one-two. Fernando took third place with a fantastic performance, with the two McLarens starting just behind the Spaniard. Lando was feeling confident in McLaren, but still felt like Ferrari could overtake them both with ease. Charles placed sixth and Carlos seventh.

Max led the charge to turn 1 as Fernando swept around the outside of Sergio to take second place. Checo held off Lando for third.

The race restarted on lap 27 in the order Max, Lando, Charles, and Sergio, who had stopped for fresh hards. Fernando DRS-ed past Carlos for fifth on the back straight. Max cruised to his fourth grand prix win of the year.

Lando had got the gap on Checo over 5s at the start of lap 50. The McLaren driver had second place nailed. Breathing a sigh of relief and joy as he finished the race. P2. 

-

“I am very happy for the whole team today, they deserved it so big thanks to them. Good day, good points and another podium - I’m very happy. It’s a pleasant surprise but it shows the team have done a good job. We’re working hard and it’s paying off.”

Lando, still exhilarated from his victory, flashed a bright smile as he fielded questions from the press. His responses were measured and confident, his voice tinged with excitement as he recounted the thrilling moments of the race.

“I was surprised by many things – the lack of pace from Ferrari today, our good pace, and I guess more us comparing to the Red Bull which was so surprising.”

Cameras flashing, the air buzzing with anticipation as journalists clamored for his attention. He couldn't help but wonder what Carlos would be doing in the evening.

Pushing aside the distraction, Lando refocused his attention on the questions at hand, his responses growing more animated as he recounted the final moments of the race. But even as he spoke, his mind remained elsewhere.

Finally, as the last question was asked and the cameras began to disperse, Lando took a moment to collect himself, his thoughts turning once again to Carlos. He turned towards the podium, his heart pounding with anticipation as he prepared to celebrate his hard-fought victory.

He yearned for the familiar presence of Carlos by his side, the comfort of knowing that someone understood him in a way that no one else could. He was so fucked already. He didn’t want anyone but Carlos.

-

They had heard about a trendy nightclub in downtown Shanghai, and with the city alive with energy, it seemed like the perfect place to continue the celebration.

As a couple of the drivers arrived at the club, the pulsating beat of the music washed over them, the neon lights casting different colors onto the dance floor. Lando was pumped with excitement as he followed his friends inside, the adrenaline from the race still coursing through his veins.

As the night wore on and the champagne flowed freely, Lando found himself feeling pleasantly tipsy, the warmth spreading through his body like a gentle embrace.

As he moved with the beat, Lando's mind replayed moments from the race to Carlos moaning into his mouth, fuck. Amidst the chaos of the club, he felt a pang of loneliness, a yearning for a familiar presence.

Pulling out his phone, Lando scrolled through his contacts, his fingers hovering over Carlos's name. He hesitated, the weight of his emotions threatening to overwhelm him. He shouldn’t.

Carlos doesn’t want the same things he wants.

The gentle touch of Carlos’s hand against Lando's cheek lingered in his thoughts, sending a shiver of anticipation down his spine as he hit send.

And honestly someone should lock up his phone while he’s drunk. It takes a few minutes for Caros to answer, but when he does Lando is already heading outside. He can’t regret what he’s going to do next.

Chapter Text

After sharing his location with Carlos, Lando sat down at the bar to wait for him. A few minutes later Lando's phone buzzed in his pocket. With a curious glance, he pulled out his phone to see a new message from Carlos saying he was outside of the club.

A rush of excitement flooded through him at the thought of spending more time with Carlos. His friends continued chatting around him, unaware of the sudden shift in his mood as he typed out a quick response.

“My nights over guys, don’t party too hard.”  He waved goodbye, leaving no room for questioning, especially from Oscar.

He saw Daniel give him a knowing look, but didn’t try to think too much about it.

He quickly got into the sleek black car Carlos was driving.

As Carlos pulled away from the curb, Lando couldn't help but steal glances at him.

"So, how was the party?" Carlos asked, breaking the silence as they navigated the streets of Shanghai.

Lando shrugged, a playful grin spreading across his face. "Fun, would’ve been better if you had joined," he replied, “is Ferrari to  blame, or did you just not want to celebrate with me?”

Carlos chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I’m sorry, but we’re celebrating right now, no?” he asked.

“You were asleep, mate.” Lando deadpanned.

Then as if the thought had just occurred to him he gasped out loud.

“Oh fuck, you were asleep,” he mentally kicked himself, “and I woke you up.”

He rubbed his face, trying to process. How bad of a friend was he?

“I really am sorry Carlos. You deserve to rest and now I’m going back to your hotel hoping you’d-“

He stopped himself. Fuck.

Lando hated how easily tears built up, it was a really dumb reason to cry. He wouldn’t.

“Hmm hoping I’d what, Landito?”

When Lando didn’t answer Carlos chuckled, rubbing his eyes sleepily. "Hey I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t want to be. I wasn't exactly getting much sleep anyway," he replied with a playful grin, knowing he had to steer the conversation in a different direction before Lando started drunk crying.

You never knew which Lando you’d get when he’s drunk. Carlos had experienced sad, hyper, and angry Lando while drunk. Not pleasant.

The McLaren driver looked over at him, the wheels turning in his brain. Lando raised an eyebrow, "Oh, really? Too busy dreaming about me, huh?" he teased, unable to resist poking fun at his friend. His “sadness” was quickly forgotten.

Carlos laughed, shaking his head in mock exasperation. “Yeah, but it’s never as good as the real thing is it.”

Lando basically choked on his own spit at the confession. How the hell does Carlos say something like that so casually. The statement seemed to sober him up real quick.

As the car sped through the city streets, Lando found himself growing increasingly restless, his thoughts consumed by images of Carlos's lips against his own, the touch of his hands against his skin. He longed for the intimacy they had shared, the electric thrill of their connection igniting a fire within him that burned hotter with each passing moment.

-

As Carlos unlocked the door to his hotel room, Lando's inhibitions began to fade. His body responded instinctively to the way Carlos let him lean on him for support, even though they both knew he wasn’t drunk enough to fall over. Maybe he was. Either way he leaned closer to Carlos, the heat of their proximity sending a flush of warmth through him as he caught the scent of Carlos's cologne as they entered the room.

As soon as the door closed behind them, their lips met, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them suspended in a haze of passion and desire.

As they melted into each other's embrace, the heat of their bodies made Lando shiver, his senses overwhelmed by the intoxicating scent and taste of Carlos.

His hands reached under Carlos’ red sweater, wanting to feel his body’s warmth. As he made contact, Carlos hummed into his mouth. The Spaniard guided him into another room which he assumed was the bedroom.

And as they sank onto the bed together, Lando lifted the sweater.

“Off, Carlos, off.” Embarrassment flooded through him at how wrecked he already sounded.

With a soft moan, Carlos responded eagerly, breaking away to discard it onto the hotel floor. His hands roamed over Lando's body with a hunger that mirrored his own. Their kisses grew more urgent, more desperate.

Lando was sprawled on the soft bed with Carlos over him. Lando wanted more, he wanted Carlos in every was possible. If you had told him 3 years ago that he’d be moaning Carlos’s name with so much pleasure he could faint, he probably would’ve fainted.

But here they were. Carlos kissing down his neck, fingers laced in Lando’s curls. Lando softly repeating his name over and over. He pulled Lando up and in one swift motion Lando was shirtless. They both quickly kicked off their shoes and jumped at each other again.

Lando held in a laugh. He had hooked up with a few guys in the past, but that’s all they’d been; one night hook-ups. Maybe he was unstable and couldn’t be tied down, all of that didn’t matter now.

Carlos, sweet Carlos , wanted him. They made eye contact as they both slipped out of their pants, Lando stumbled a bit, never breaking the eye contact. His eyes wandered down to the bulge in Carlos’s boxers. Fuck.

Carlos reached out to latch both arms around his waist. Compared to the Ferrari driver, Lando had the smaller build. That made him feel things. They ended up on the bed with Carlos under him, Lando sat on his lap.

He could feel everything, he was basically panting at this point.

“Carlos, fuck. How a- you’re so hot.”

Carlos pulled him closer by the waist, his grip almost bruising. The move making Lando’s knees give out, he was so thankful the bed held him up. Carlos licked under his jaw.

“Lindo, what do you want,” he caressed the younger’s back.

Lando couldn’t help but rock his hips forward, not knowing how to form words.

“Call me.. that,” Lando panted heavily, “call me that while I blow you.”

Carlos stilled under him. “Lando how many drinks-“

“Fuck you, I’m.. please Carlos. I want this,” Lando knew he didn’t have to convince him too much longer. He brought Carlos’s hand down to feel him. His dick craved more friction.

That seemed to work.

“Aye mierda, so you like when I call you lindo.”

“I love it,” Lando whispered, finally feeling confident enough to slip a hand to feel Carlos’s length. His desire grew stronger. Lando got off the bed and fell to his knees. The soft carpet welcomed him as he pulled Carlos’s briefs down.

His dick was leaking precum, and Lando licked the tip slowly at first. Carlos tangled both hands in his hair, encouraging him silently.

Lando wanted to hear him. He wanted to hear the way his name rolled off Carlos’s tongue. His hand clasped around the Spaniards cock, stroking it at a slow pace, wanting to see Carlos melt.

He looked up at his former teammate. His big dark eyes were already watching him, biting the inside of his cheek. “Lando, I want your mouth.”

Lando did as he was told. His mouth opened to take Carlos, it was the hottest thing he’d ever seen. Carlos closed his eyes, cursing to himself, hands still on Lando’s head.

“Lindo, necesito mas, por favor..” he groaned. Lando let out a pleased hum at the Spanish. He gagged as he lowered onto Carlos, picking up his pace.

Carlos was pulling on his hair slightly, and Lando swore he saw stars. He stopped himself from touching his own dick, he wanted his focus solely on Carlos.

“Just like that.. hugh.. mierda. You take me so well baby.”

The pet name went straight to his dick, making him suck harder, hoping he’d be called baby again.

Carlos threw his head back to stare at the ceiling.

“Baby, that’s it. You look so perfect taking all of my cock.”

Lando moaned instantly, his face growing hot. It didn’t even matter that his jaw was hurting or that he was drooling all over Carlos’s dick.

He devoured it, wanting Carlos to only ever think of him. To never want another man to do this to him, only Lando.

Was that too selfish? They weren’t dating, but Lando’s subconscious knew that Carlos hadn’t been with anyone else ever since their first kiss. The thought alone drove him crazy. He needed Carlos to never forget, not that he would. Because Lando wasn’t trying to have a big ego when he said that his head giving skills were top tier. He knew the effect he had on people.

Carlos was basically melting, thrusting up his hips the tiniest amount. And Lando gratefully took it all. Carlos whined- fucking whined- when Lando took his erection from his mouth.

Lando’s lips moved to Carlos’s inner thigh, they were amazing. His hands still stroking Carlos, he attached his mouth to the warm skin, attempting to mark it. Carlos pulled his leg closer to Lando’s face, wanting more.

“Lando, up, please,” his voice was so clear in Lando’s ears, sounding so heavenly. Carlos pulled him into a hard kiss. The thought of Carlos tasting himself on Lando’s tongue was so dirty Lando’s cock ached.

Carlos flipped them over on the bed, finally touching his erection. He placed both of their cocks together in one hand, stroking them simultaneously.

“Carlos, fuck..” the only thing his brain could process was Carlos, Carlos, Carlos.

When Carlos licked his nipple Lando nearly cummed immediately. “Say my name, don’t hold any sounds in lindo,” Carlos purred, gripping their erections tighter.

The next sound to come out of Lando’s mouth was a choked out needy whimper. His eyes closed with pleasure. Now it was his turn to touch Carlos’s soft hair.

“Carlos,” he moaned loudly, the sound bouncing off the hotel walls. His legs lifted up to wrap around Carlos.

“Give me a love bite? Mark me, please,” he panted out, his voice raspy laced with no embarrassment.

He was just voicing his desires. “You’ll have traces of me for weeks. Only for me to see, is that what you want hm?”

“Yea, only for you. Please hurry I’m close,” he cursed himself not wanting it to end.

“Baby I’m close too, you make me feel so hot. Only for me.” He grunted, finally sucking hard on Lando’s collar bone and chest, all while stroking their cocks. Carlos’s teeth made contact with his skin, biting him lightly.

Fuck .

Lando just withered under his weight. His climax building by the second. “Kiss me Carlos.”

Their lips met once again. Carlos smiled against his mouth. “Come for me, Lando.”

“Shit, please.”

Lando covered his face with his forearm, the pleasure too intense.

He moaned loudly once again, his abdomen tightening as streaks of white landed on Carlos’s chest, dripping to cover them both. His hand went down to help Carlos finish, sensing he was close as well. He was still trembling from his high, hand shaking until Carlos spurted all over him.

Wow.

His breathing slowed down as Carlos kissed his cheek. “Do you want to shower first?”

Lando wasn’t sure he ever wanted to leave Carlos’s bed. “Ughh, can we stay here for a few minutes?” His request was answered with Carlos falling dramatically next to him.

They were both so tired, a race week will do that to you. Lando knew he’d feel better after he showered.

“Are you letting me stay over?”

Carlos turned to face him. “Lando, it’s.. you’ve stayed over before.”

“Yeah but it was different before mate,” he joked. Carlos hummed in agreement.

“Ok but I’m trying to say that I’m not letting you stay over. I want you to, you don’t need permission in the first place.”

Lando smiled, Carlos was a saint. Carlos let him borrow a pair of sweats again as he went to shower. It was quickly becoming their thing.

He was already under the sheets, after pulling  the sweaty blanket off of course, when Carlos returned from his shower. It was already 3 in the morning, which explained why they both fell asleep almost immediately after cuddling.

Lando woke up with a sigh, feeling the sunlight coming through the window. He picked up his phone and turned off the alarm.

10:00 AM

He had a bit of a hangover if he was being honest. Luckily he always booked the later flights. It was only then that he recalled Carlos waking him up.

“Lando, I have to catch my flight. I’m leaving.” His voice had been so soft, like he wasn’t trying to wake him up. “Lando, I left the key on the table so you can check out. Text me.”

Lando faintly remembers leaning up for a kiss. That had been way more intimate than he intended, he only hoped Carlos wouldn’t read to much into it. If they could jerk each other off and remain friends they could definitely not be weird about a kiss.

Lando wasn’t sure how people did this. He wanted so badly to tell Carlos- what the hell did he want to tell him.

I want to lay in bed with you, hold your hand in public, run my fingers through your hair, be the only one to see you undone. Tell you I lov-

LANDO WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?!! No, no, no, no, no.

He needed to chill the fuck out.

-

Carlos was content with his morning. He had woken up so tired, flat on his back with Lando cuddled against his side. He had reluctantly gotten up. Before leaving he admired Lando, he was a completely different person asleep. His face was calm, taking even breaths.

He looks so good in my clothes. 

Carlos figured Lando could have a pair of sweatpants. 

His chest was covered with dark red and a little bit of purple from fading hickies. He was satisfied with his work. Lando doesn’t respond to anything he says, only kisses him and falls back asleep. And Carlos closes the door slowly,  Lando had to know what he was doing.

Now after his flight nap, he looked through his phone.

Well fuck.

Chapter Text

As he stepped into the paddock, Carlos was filled with unease. He had left Charles on read. The thought of facing him had him oozing in embarrassment that he couldn't quite shake.

As if sensing his unease, Charles approached with a knowing grin, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he clapped Carlos on the back.

"Carlos," he began, his voice laced with playful teasing, "are you okay?”

Carlos felt his cheeks flush as he met Charles's gaze, his mind racing for his usual witty comeback.

“Yeah I’m just a bit embarrassed,” he replied with a nervous chuckle, trying to play it cool despite the butterflies in his stomach.

Charles laughed, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "Oh, don't worry, mate," he said, clapping Carlos on the shoulder reassuringly. "We've all been there. Just make sure you save some energy for next week, huh?”

They walked along side each other, passing employees as they stayed silent.

“Mate, I’m sorry, but I’m dying to know more," Charles said, nudging him playfully with his elbow once they were out of earshot from everyone. “How long has this been going on between you and Lando? Are you guys, like, a thing now?"

Carlos chuckled again, feeling a blush creeping up his cheeks. "Uh, well, it's not exactly... official," he admitted, his voice trailing off as he struggled to find the right words.

Charles raised an eyebrow, waiting for more information.

“Lando- okay well we just agreed to be friends. It just happened that occasionally we.. um you know..”

“Have sex? Carlos how long has this been going on for?”

“No sex, no! Oh my god Charles I don’t want to share details with you,” he rushed out, “we haven’t done that, this has been a recent thing.”

“And you’re ok with just being friends?” He interrogated him, "it’s pretty obvious that you're head over heels for him."

Carlos felt a surge of panic rise in his chest, his mind racing as he tried to come up with a response. "I... uh... well, I mean, he's a great guy," he stammered, his voice betraying his nerves.

But Charles just grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "See? I knew it," he said triumphantly, clapping Carlos on the back. "Are you gonna tell him? Oh please say you’ll tell him.”

As they continued on their way, Carlos was grateful for Charles's understanding and support but he wasn’t sure how to respond.

“I wouldn’t want to lose Lando, he’s my closest friend on the grid.”

Charles faked a heart attack, which in turn brought a smile to Carlos’s face. “Next to you of course.”

“I don’t know if this’ll help but he definitely looks at you the same way you look at him mate.”

The realization that Lando might feel the same way about him filled him with a sense of hope and possibility that he didn’t want to entertain at the moment.

But beneath the surface, a nagging voice of doubt lingered in the back of Carlos's mind, whispering words of caution. What if Charles was wrong? What if Lando didn't feel the same way about him after all?

As they continued on their way through the paddock, he knew that he needed to confront his feelings for Lando head-on. But the thought of baring his soul to Lando filled Carlos with such vulnerability that made his stomach churn with nervousness. What if Lando didn't feel the same way? What if their friendship was irreparably damaged by his confession?

Lost in his thoughts, Carlos felt a hand on his shoulder, snapping him out of his reverie. He looked up to see Charles watching him with concern, his eyes filled with empathy and understanding.

-

As the Miami sun stretched its warm fingers across the city, Lando and Oscar started a rigorous morning workout session. They had arrived at a secluded area of the track, ready to sharpen their reflexes for the upcoming race weekend.

The cool morning air filled their lungs as they warmed up, preparing their muscles for the physical demands of the day ahead.

As they caught their breath between sets, Oscar leaned against the nearby bench. “You know, mate," he began, "I had a fantastic round of golf last weekend. Finally got my handicap down a few strokes."

Lando's interest piqued at the mention of golf, a sport he had grown to love over the years. "That's great," he replied with a grin, setting down his weights. "I've been hitting the course lately, trying to improve my swing n all that.”

Oscar nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "We should hit the links together sometime," he suggested.

Lando's eyes lit up with excitement at the thought. ”Say when,” he replied, “It's been a while since I played with someone other than Carlos."

“Right, how is Carlos?”

Lando appreciated Oscar faking interest, especially after everything that happened between them. He was glad they could be civil.

But Oscar, ever so observant, six sensed a shift in Lando’s demeanor.

“He’s good, yeah,” his voice sounded normal to his ears but Oscar just kept looking at him.

“Hmmm ok.”

“I.. what?” He continued with his workout trying to not turn red.

“Nothing you just usually have more to say about him.” Oscar shrugged off.

They continued for another few minutes, Lando couldn’t help it. Oscar should know, right? Lando had already told him that he liked guys, so he was half way there.

“MeandCarlosmadeout!”

Oscar looked a bit surprised at his sudden outburst, but he didn’t seem to freak out like Lando expected.

“Oh okay, I mean- that makes sense. I honestly thought you guys were in a situationship type thing already mate,” his Aussie accent cool and collected.

Now it was Lando’s turn to be confused.

“Since when?”

He couldn’t believe he and Carlos seemed like they had a ‘situationship.’ He wanted to know more, all the details he seemed to be missing.

Once again Oscar shrugged, continuing his reps. “Since I joined McLaren honestly. And it was amplified after you told me about your preference for guys. I thought, you know, it was a subtle hint at you and Carlos.”

Lando’s disbelief must’ve been so evident on his face because Oscar continued.

“Uh why do you think I don’t talk crap about him after all the shit we’ve been through?”

“Because I thought you didn’t like talking about it???” To be fair Oscar never shit-talked anyone, he just worked harder, which Lando admired greatly.

“Well that and I thought, no offense, that I shouldn’t do that to his boyfriend’s face.”

“Well, this has been a lovely chat Oscar, I didn’t know you saw it that way. Also you know you can still talk to me about how you feel. It isn’t my duty to go and report to him.”

“Lando of course I know that. But what good would bad mouthing him do anyway? I’m sorry I thought you guys were dating when you’re not,” he laughed at his own joke, patting him on the back.

“It’s alright mate, and hey, my offer still stands if you ever wanna shit talk,” he winked, relieved to have finally told someone.

-

Carlos hesitated for a moment before reaching for his phone. With trembling fingers, he scrolled through his contacts until he found Lando's name, his heart pounding in his chest as he pressed the call button.

The phone rang once, twice, before Lando's voice echoed through the line, warm and familiar.

“Hey, Carlos," he greeted, his voice sending a shiver of anticipation down Carlos's spine.

"Hey, Lando," Carlos replied, his voice husky with desire, which he hoped wasn’t obvious. “I, uh... I just wanted to hear your voice."

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and Carlos held his breath, waiting for Lando's response. Then, with a soft chuckle, Lando spoke again, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

“I'm here, Carlos. Always. Except that was kinda cringe mate, don’t ever repeat that.”

With a light hearted chuckle, Carlos closed his eyes and leaned back against the pillows, letting Lando's words wash over him like a soothing balm.

"I miss you, Lando," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. He didn’t care how ‘cringe’ he was being.

"I miss you too, Carlos," Lando replied, his voice tinged with longing. "And I’m glad you said it first, I was starting to think I was going crazy.”

“And it’s only been 4 days,” he laughed out loud at the ridiculousness of it all.

“Hey that’s 4 days I’ve been nothing but lonely,” Lando teased him, “well I guess that’s not true, I have Oscar.”

Even just his name irked Carlos in the tiniest way possible. Oscar was a nice guy, genuinely. He mostly kept to himself, and the only other person he’d talk to was Lando. Maybe it was the countless interviews and interactions he’d seen. Oscar had this look to him, looked at Lando so closely. And he knew his thought process was irrational, Oscar had a girlfriend. Lando was great company, they were teammates for fuckes sake.

Lando seemed to notice his silence. “Do you not like Oscar?”

“I do.” He was way too quick to answer, almost sounding defensive.

“Hmmm, sure mate. Are you jealous, Carlos?” Lando drew out his name, painting a picture of him back on the hotel bed, crying out his name.

“What happens if I am?” They were playing a game, seeing how long the other would take to crake.

“Why are you jealous?” He hummed into the phone.

“He gets to see you more often, talk to you, look at you.” He said it slowly for emphasis, happy when he heard the softest whimper.

With a newfound sense of urgency coursing through him, Carlos let his mind race.

“Carlos, he has a girlfriend,” Lando cleared his throat, trying not to crumble. “Even if he didn’t have a girlfriend, Oscar’s really not my type. I..” there was a brief pause, “I like strong, dark haired, possessive men.”

Carlos wanted to see Lando, ask him so many questions.

“How am I possessive?”

Lando laughed at his defensiveness, Carlos simply held his breath, waiting for an answer.

“I didn’t say you were. But I imagine you wouldn’t like it if I fucked someone last night. Or hey maybe you don’t care which is ok-“

Lando started rambling and Carlos understood what he meant. He absolutely despised the idea.

“Stop, ok obviously I wouldn’t want that. Have you done that?”

“No, Carlos no! Not ever since we kissed, I mean.”

Carlos had known but the reassurance was so rewarding he wanted to hear it a million times over.

“Lando, I haven’t either. I- I know this sounds crazy but I only want you.” He couldn’t back out now. “Do you understand what I’m saying?”

“Fuck Carlos,” Lando breathed heavily, “I only want you too. Plus Oscar thought we had already been dating so.”

“What!!?”

-

They stayed on the phone for hours (Lando may or may not have experienced phone sex for the first time) until Carlos eventually heard Lando’s soft sleeping breathes after he stopped telling him about his week.

“Sweet dreams Landito.”

Chapter Text

When Lando wins the Miami Grand Prix, his mind goes blank.

Finally .

As he led the last few laps, he didn’t think about anything, only stared at the road ahead of him and focused on his rapid heartbeat. Lando's hands trembled as he gripped the steering wheel, his voice catching in his throat. "Yes! We did it! Thank you, guys!“

Finally .

Screams of joy. Loud applause. His face hurt from smiling so hard.

Fucking finally!!!

He was more than ecstatic. There was no words to express how high he felt as other drivers congratulated him. Carlos, hugging him tightly, whispering complements in his ear.

“So proud of you Lando.”

No drugs or alcohol could ever compare. He had never felt this light in his life.In other words he was untouchable.

He got up on the podium, went through multiple interviews, then finally sat through the press conference. He couldn’t remember half the things he said, it all felt out of body. It wasn’t just luck, this was a long time coming. He wasn’t even pissed when the reporters questioned him on what conditions he had won under, he was only amused by Max’s answer.

But finally he was able to party after endless questions.

He raised his glass in a toast, and the party began. As the music kicked in, Lando was pulled into the dance floor by his team, each one taking a moment to hug him, to congratulate him, to share in the joy of the night. He danced, the weight of the race melting away in the infectious energy of the celebration. In the middle of the dance floor, Lando spotted Oscar, who was grinning from ear to ear. He made his way over.

“Great job, mate," Oscar said, his voice sincere. "Don’t get shitfaced m’ ok?”

“Thanks mate,” Lando replied for the millionth time, his smile never wavering. The vulgar language caught him off guard. “No promises.”

As the night wore on, the party showed no signs of slowing down. The room was a blur of laughter and movement, with people dancing, drinking, and reliving the highlights of the race. Lando was everywhere at once—on the dance floor, at the bar, mingling with his teammates.

Lando moved through the crowd, his face flushed with excitement. The music was loud, keeping the dance floor packed. Everywhere he turned, he was met with congratulatory hugs, high-fives, and heartfelt words of praise.

George eventually wrapped him into a conversation taking a sip of his drink. "How does it feel, champ?"

"Surreal," Lando admitted, leaning against the bar. "Like I'm still dreaming and I might wake up any second."

George chuckled, the sound making Lando happy. "You better get used to it. This is just the beginning for you."

-

Lando’s eyes kept seeking out one person. Carlos stood near the bar, a glass in hand, chatting with a few familiar faces. He looked effortlessly handsome, his dark hair tousled and his smile easy. The sight of him made Lando's heart race in a way that had nothing to do with the adrenaline of the race.

Lando excused himself from a conversation with a group of engineers and made his way over to Carlos. The closer he got, the more his pulse quickened. He could feel the pull, the magnetic draw that Carlos had always had on him.

Carlos noticed him approaching and his face lit up with a warm, genuine smile. "Landitooo," he said, raising his glass in a toast, obviously already slightly drunk.

"You were incredible cabrón.”

Lando grinned, feeling a warmth spread through him at Carlos's words. "Was I?”

He clinked his glass against Carlos's, the sound ringing out above the music.

Lando found himself forgetting about the rest of the party as he focused on Carlos. There was a lingering feeling. Lando could feel it in the way Carlos's eyes stayed on his, in the way their fingers brushed against each other when they reached for their drinks. He wanted to tell Carlos everything, to finally lay his feelings bare.

Lando found himself pulled away to chat with a few mechanics. He was laughing at a particularly funny story when he glanced up and saw Carlos moving towards the exit. Carlos was slipping on his jacket, his movements slow and deliberate, as if he was trying to leave without drawing attention to himself.

A pang of disappointment hit Lando in the chest. He excused himself from the conversation and made his way through the crowd, weaving between dancing bodies and groups of people deep in conversation.

"Carlos," Lando called out as he reached the door.

Carlos turned, his expression softening when he saw Lando. "Hey," he said, his voice gentle.

"I was just about to head out."

Lando's brows furrowed slightly. "Already? It’s barely 11."

Carlos chuckled. "It's been a long day. And you've got plenty of people here to celebrate with."

Lando stepped closer, his heart pounding. "But I want to celebrate with you," he admitted, his voice quieter, hoping to be heard above the music.

"It's not the same without you."

Carlos smiled at him. "I'm really proud of you, you know," he said. "You've worked so hard for this."

Lando felt a warmth spread through him at Carlos's words. "Thanks, Carlos."

Carlos glanced around the bustling room, then back at Lando.

“How about a walk?" Lando suggested. "It's quieter outside, and-“

Carlos chuckled, “I thought you were going to get wasted, no?”

Lando nodded halfheartedly, “Yeah, but I have the worst hangovers. Plus I can do that every other race, plus last time I was drunk you didn’t want to make out with me.”

Carlos looked around quickly, looking a little panicked. Lando grabbed his hand and they slipped out of the party and into the cool night air. The sounds of the celebration faded behind them as they walked side by side, the city lights casting a soft glow around them.

Lando drew out his phone, texting Zak that he was leaving. He hoped they wouldn’t notice his departure and honestly didn’t care if they did.

They walked in comfortable silence for a few minutes, the night peaceful around them. They called an Uber, opting to go to Lando’s hotel.

Once in the car, Carlos spoke. "Are you sure they won’t miss you at the party?”

He shook his head, knowing they’d be too busy celebrating McLaren’s first place podium since- Lando couldn’t fucking think clearly.

Carlos gave him a knowing look, saying that he could see through his white lies.

Lando felt his cheeks heat up, "stay with me. Celebrate with me, they’ll manage.”

Carlos hesitated, his eyes searching Lando's. "Lando..."

But Lando couldn't hold back any longer. "I mean it, Carlos. I want you. Always."

Ok fuck , so maybe he hadn’t realized his alcohol consumption.

The words hung in the air between them, the silence making Lando's heart ache. Carlos's expression softened, and he got closer, his hand reaching out to gently touch Lando's arm.

"Lando, I..." Carlos started, but didn’t finish his sentence, instead he eyed the driver. Lando understood. He didn’t want him to hear.

-

As they reached Lando's door, he fumbled with the key card, laughing nervously. Carlos's steadying hand on his shoulder was both comforting and electrifying.

Finally, the door clicked open, and they stumbled inside, the door closing behind them with a soft thud.

The room was dimly lit, casting a warm, intimate glow over everything. Lando turned to face Carlos, looking into those deep, dark eyes. He could see a mix of emotions there—affection, desire, and a hint of nervousness that mirrored his own.

"I meant what I said," Lando said softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Shit okay, this was happening.

Carlos smiled, stepping closer until there was hardly any space between them. "You want me always?” he asked, his voice equally soft, but more sensual.

Lando couldn't wait any longer. He closed the distance between them, his heart pounding. Their lips met and Lando's heart soared, the kiss deepened as he wrapped his arms around Carlos’ neck.

When they finally broke apart, their foreheads rested against each other, both of them breathing heavily. He needed an answer.

"Stay with me tonight," Lando whispered, his voice unrelenting.

Carlos nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

They stood there for a moment, then Lando's hands found their way to Carlos's hair, fingers tangling in the dark strands as he pulled him closer. Carlos's hands roamed over Lando's back, his touch sending shivers down Lando's spine.

They stumbled towards the bed, their kisses growing more heated, more desperate. Lando could taste the alcohol on Carlos's lips, a reminder of the party they had just left behind.

But here, in the privacy of his hotel room, it was just the two of them, lost in each other.

Carlos gently pushed Lando onto the bed, their lips never breaking contact. Lando pulled Carlos down with him, their bodies pressing together.

The feel of Carlos's body against his, the alcohol, his p1, it was all overwhelming.

Lando's hands roamed over Carlos's back, his touch growing bolder as the minutes passed. He could feel the muscles under Carlos's shirt, the way they tensed and relaxed with every movement. It was a heady feeling, knowing he was the one making Carlos feel this way.

Carlos's kisses trailed down Lando's jaw, his lips brushing against the sensitive skin of his neck. Lando let out a soft moan, his head tilting back to give Carlos better access. Every touch, every kiss felt like a promise, a declaration of feelings. He hoped to God it wasn’t just wishful thinking.

"Lando," Carlos murmured against his skin, his voice husky with desire. "I want you so much."

Lando's heart swelled at the words, how was he not supposed to fall in love.

“I want you too, Carlos," he whispered back, his voice trembling with emotion.

Their eyes met, and in that moment, Lando saw everything he had ever hoped for reflected in Carlos's gaze.

As Carlos’s lips moved back to his neck, Lando let out a soft moan, his eyes fluttering shut. He could feel the gentle scrape of Carlos’s teeth, the warmth of his breath, and it was almost too much to bear. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat echoing the name of the man he loved. Carlos lifted his shirt, throwing it off the bed. Lando felt like the most impatient person ever. He needed Carlos to-

“Carlos cmon please, please.”

Carlos got the hint; he took of his shirt and unbuckled his black pants, abandoning them on the floor. His hand then went to Lando’s own pants, undressing in him at a speed that he was surely trying to kill him.

Lando fought away moans, feeling hot all over. Carlos had Lando’s dick in his hand, kneeling down to bring it to his mouth.

“Shit, Carlosss,” he panted out, hands in Carlos’ silky hair. As Carlos took all of him into his mouth Lando couldn’t help but jerk his hips into him. Carlos gagged on him, looking up to the McLaren driver with a warning look.

“M sorry, sorry,” Lando choked out, smiling.

He heard a faint sound coming from the floor, his phone?

Who the fuck was calling?

Carlos reached for something on the ground, he rolled his eyes while handing Lando his phone. Lando saw it was Oscar calling, he didn’t know whether to answer or decline.

“Looks like your boyfriend’s worried about you,” Carlos rasped out. He seemed a bit annoyed, so decline? Oscar wouldn’t mind.

“Answer it lindo, but make it quick.” Carlos swirled his tongue on Lando’s tip. Lando threw himself back on the bed. He wasn’t sure he could sound normal.

He picked up the call, struggling to breathe as Carlos started to suck him again, but this time at a rougher pace.

“Hey Lando, you alright mate? I didn’t see when you left, I just wanted to know you got home safe.”

He felt Carlos sink deeper on his cock.

“Hmm, yes I’m at the hotel, safe,” he blurted out, his eyes rolling back.

“Alright, if you need anything-“

“Yup I know your hotel number. See you tomorrow, I gotta go Osc,” he interrupted, hanging up.

“His hotel number lindo?” This time Carlos was teasing as he got off his knees.

“God, you’re so hot when your jealous.”

Carlos looked down to his hard-on. “Lando you can’t leave me like this.” His tone was seductive, eyebrows raised.

“Shut up and fuck me then,” Lando yelled with frustration, almost begging.

“Hm say it louder, maybe Oscar’ll hear you,” Carlos purred.

After minutes of Carlos prepping him, Lando couldn’t take it anymore. The heat pooling inside of him was growing bigger by the second. Pre come was leaking all over him. The lube felt so good as Carlos pushed a third finger in him.

“Please Carlos- fuck,” Lando struggled with his words, “I need you.”

“You sound so good when you’re begging me for it baby.” He took his fingers out, making Lando feel empty.

“Wait.”

Carlos closed his mouth before saying anything, going to back away. “Are you ok, we don’t have to do anything.”

Lando didn’t answer him, he preferred to go all in. He switched his position to take off Carlos’ briefs, then to reassure the Ferrari driver with a kiss.

“I’m perfect,” he smiled into the kiss. Which was the truth. He heard Carlos let out a relieved sigh. He was now on Carlos’ lap, their erections touching. He moved, chasing more friction.

“Lando, I need to get the condom,” Carlos moaned into his neck, but he made no signs of moving. Lando placed both hands on the drivers face, making them stare at each other.

“Carlos Sainz, you bastard. Do you usually have a condom after every race?” A small part of him genuinely wanted to know.

Carlos was up, searching for it.

“Just my intuition,” he fucking winked at Lando as he got back on the bed, putting it on, “you left me wanting more after our phone call.”

Lando, still sat on his heels, squeezed lube on the rubber, slowly stroking it.

Once he was satisfied, he started to lower himself down on it, Carlos’ hands on his hips.

“You’re gorgeous, mierda.”

Lando closed his eyes, taking his time to adjust. He was supporting himself on Carlos’ shoulders. He leaned closer, wanting to be marked again.

While he lowered himself, Carlos got the message and started to latch onto his chest. He sucked so hard Lando felt dizzy on the sensation alone.

He let out a whimper, pulling on Carlos’ hair.

Carlos grunted before thrusting up slightly into Lando. That made the younger cry out in pleasure.

He connected their lips as he started to fuck himself on Carlos. He couldn’t help but arch his back as Carlos turned them over so that Lando was on his back. He set a faster pace, as Lando moaned his name out loud.

The Spanish driver said beautiful nothings in his ear, sending him over the edge.

“Lindo, te ves tan hermoso tomándome tan bien. Por favor, te necesito. Me has arruinado por otros. Te quiero solo a ti. No me pidas que sea tu puto amigo. Te trataría tan bien, guapo.”

Carlos reached down to Lando’s neglected cock, matching the pace he was thrusting into him. Lando’s head went back, his nails digging into Carlos’ back.

“M close, harder.”

Blood rushed to his dick, his back arched, Lando let out a loud sob, hips bucking up trying to chase his climax.

He saw stars as his member went soft in Carlos’ hand. They kissed as Carlos’ thrusts became frantic. He felt the moment the older finished, it was like his tense body relaxed against him.

They both panted as Carlos moved to lay down beside him, ridding away the condom. They were both a mess in a tangle of limbs and kisses.

A different kind of emotion began to well up within Lando. It started as a tightness in his chest, the realization that this was real, that Carlos was here with him, loving him, hit him with full force.

Tears began to pool in Lando’s eyes, unbidden and unstoppable. He tried to blink them away, but they spilled over, trailing down his cheeks.

Was he still drunk?

Carlos, pulled back slightly, concern written on his face.

“Lando?” Carlos’s voice was soft, as he searched Lando’s eyes. “What’s wrong?”

Lando shook his head, a watery smile breaking through his tears. “Nothing’s wrong,” he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.

“I’m just… so happy.”

You sound fucking stupid.

Carlos’s expression softened greatly, and he gently cupped Lando’s face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears. “You’re crying because you’re happy?” he asked, a tender smile on his lips.

Lando laughed through his tears, nodding.

“Yeah,” he shrugged. “I’ve wanted this for so long. You mean so much to me, Carlos. More than I can put into words.”

Carlos’s leaned in to press a soft kiss to Lando’s lips. “You mean everything to me,” he murmured against Lando’s mouth. “I never want you to doubt that.”

They held each other close, Lando’s tears continued to fall, but they were tears of joy. The love he felt for Carlos, the happiness that filled him, was almost too much to contain.

The aftercare was just as great as the sex, with Carlos pulling him into the shower, washing away the sweat, stress, and anything else he had endured that day. It took a lot for them to not go for a round 2. In the end they were both content as they snuggled together in bed. Lando was happy he’d packed Carlos’ sweats from their last race.

-

As the first light of dawn began to filter through the curtains, Lando awoke entwined with Carlos, his heart still brimming with happiness.

The room was silent except for their soft, steady breathing, a peaceful contrast to the chaos of the night before. Carlos's arm was draped over Lando's waist, his touch warm and comforting.

Lando shifted slightly, turning to look at Carlos. He took in the peaceful expression on his face, the way his lips were slightly parted, and the soft rise and fall of his chest.

Carefully, so as not to wake him, Lando shifted closer, wanting to savor the moment. He watched Carlos sleep.

Carlos stirred, his eyelids fluttering open. He looked around for a moment before his eyes focused on Lando. A slow, sleepy smile spread across his face.

“Good morning," he murmured, his voice husky from sleep.

"Good morning," Lando replied softly, his heart skipping a beat at the sight of Carlos's smile.

Carlos reached out, his fingers gently brushing against Lando's cheek.

“Are you okay?" he asked, his gaze searching Lando's eyes.

Lando nodded, leaning into Carlos's touch.

"I'm more than okay," he whispered. "Last night was... incredible."

Carlos's smile widened, and he pulled Lando closer, wrapping him in a warm embrace.

"I don't want this to end."

Lando's heart fluttered at the words, and he tightened his hold on Carlos. "It doesn't have to," he said softly. "I don’t want to be fuck buddies or friends that make out often anymore .”

Carlos agreed, “I want more too Lando, I didn’t want to scare you away from something you didn’t want.”

Lando’s smile grew more genuine, the uncertainty in his chest loosening slightly. “Can we take it slow?” He asked, his voice filled with contempt.

“Of course lindo, but what does slow look like to you?”

Lando huffed, not really sure how to respond. “I like how we have now, except maybe more time together, more kisses, and,” Lando held his breath, “would you be comfortable telling people?”

“Hmmm tell people what?” Carlos poked his side playfully.

“Thatwe’redating.” There he said it.

Lando felt his face grow hot.

Carlos laughed, “didn’t you say Oscar already knew?”

“Yeah and you’re still jealous,” Lando laughed back.

Carlos kissed him softly, “telling people is fine, as long as we keep it private from the press, yes?”

“Oh God yes, they’d have a field day for sure.”

“My boyfriend Lando Norris has a nice ring to it, no?”

“You’re unbelievable.”

-

They laid there for a while longer, the silence between them comfortable and filled with unspoken promises. Eventually, they got up and began to get dressed, their movements easy and familiar, like they had done this a thousand times before.

As they prepared to leave the room, Carlos glanced over at Lando, a playful glint in his eyes. “So, breakfast?” he suggested, his tone light.

Lando laughed, the sound easing the last of his lingering worries. “Yeah, breakfast sounds good,” he replied, feeling a sense of normalcy return. They dodged the McLaren employees, which were every which way, and went for breakfast before they’d have to separate again.

But this time, Lando was happy knowing he’d leave with his first win ever and Carlos Sainz as his boyfriend.

Chapter Text

The week leading up to the Imola Grand Prix was much like any other, the relentless pace of the season never seemed to slow down. For Lando and Carlos, it also meant starting their relationship while being miles apart.

Lando found himself constantly checking his phone between training sessions and meetings, eager for any message from Carlos.

One evening, after a particularly hard day at the McLaren factory, Lando collapsed onto his bed and immediately grabbed his phone. There was a message from Carlos waiting for him, asking to call.

“Hey, Lando,” his voice warm and familiar.

“Hey,” Lando replied, smiling at the sound of his voice.

“How’s everything at Ferrari?”

“Busy, as usual,” Carlos chuckled. “Charles is being annoyingly fast. You?”

“Survived another day. The car’s looking good, can’t say more than that to the guy I’m competing against.”

Carlos laughed softly. “You remember our late-night strategy sessions?”

“Yeah,” Lando admitted easily, feeling a pang of nostalgia. “Everyone’s working hard, but I keep distracting myself with you.”

“Same here, but as my competitor you didn’t hear that.” Carlos’s laughter bounced off his bedroom walls because he was on speaker, and Lando couldn’t think of a better sound.

They talked for nearly an hour, sharing things from their day and finding comfort in each other’s voices. By the time they hung up, Lando felt a little less lonely.

As night fell on Wednesday, Lando called Carlos again, eager for their nightly chat.

“Hey,” Carlos answered, sounding slightly breathless. “Just finished a simulator session.”

“Beat Charles’s time?” Lando teased.

“Of course,” Carlos replied, pride evident in his voice. “How was your day?”

“Exhausting. But hearing your voice makes it better.”

Carlos’s tone softened. “I’ve been thinking a lot about us.”

“Yeah? What about us?” Lando asked, his heart pounding. His overthinking took over for more than a second. What if he didn’t feel the same anymore? Had he just said so in the moment? What if he only wanted the secret hookups?

“About how this works with everything else. The racing, the distance…”

Lando’s breath picked up significantly; he tried not to make it obvious over the phone.

“Landito?”

“I think we can make it work if we try,” Lando said, his voice filled with determination.

“I want to try, Lando. I really do.”

“Don’t scare me like that Carlos, I thought you were about to break things off.” He finds himself breathing out with relief.

Thursday’s call came later than usual. Lando had been tied up with a series of back-to-back meetings, and by the time he got to his room, he was exhausted. But hearing Carlos’s voice was a balm.

“Long day?” Carlos asked, concern in his voice.

“Yeah. You?”

“Same. But I’ve been looking forward to this all day.”

“Me too,” Lando admitted, feeling warmth spread through his chest.

They talked about everything and nothing, the conversation flowing easily despite their fatigue. By the time they said goodnight, Lando was half awake.

-

The race still coursed through Lando’s veins as he stepped off the podium. P2 at the Imola Grand Prix was a fantastic result, but between the celebrations, his thoughts kept drifting to Carlos.

He knew Carlos had finished P5, a solid performance, but more importantly, they were finally in the same place again.

As the evening wore on and the celebrations began to die down, Lando felt an irresistible pull. He needed to see Carlos. They had exchanged a few hurried words in the paddock after the race, but it wasn’t enough. He craved the closeness they’d shared over the phone during the week, the connection that had kept him going.

Under the cover of night, Lando made his way to Carlos’s hotel, his heart pounding with anticipation. He took the back entrance to avoid drawing attention, and within minutes, he was standing outside Carlos’s door.

He knocked softly, even though he knew Carlos was waiting for him.

The door opened almost immediately, and there stood Carlos, still in his Ferrari team shirt, eyes lighting up at the sight of Lando.

“Lando,” Carlos breathed, pulling him inside quickly before closing the door. “You made it.”

Lando grinned, the tension of the week and the day’s race melting away as he stepped into Carlos’s arms.

“I couldn’t wait any longer.”

They stood there for a moment, just holding each other, the world outside the hotel room forgotten. Carlos pulled back slightly to look at Lando, his eyes filled with so much warmth that made Lando’s heart race.

“P2, huh?” Carlos said with a proud smile. “You were amazing out there.”

“You too, P5 is great,” Lando replied, his voice soft. “But all I could think about was getting here to you.”

Carlos’s smile turned tender, and he brushed a thumb across Lando’s cheek. “I’ve missed you so much.”

“I’ve missed you too,” Lando whispered, leaning in to close the distance between them.

Their lips met in a kiss. Carlos’s hands cupped Lando’s face, and Lando’s fingers tangled in Carlos’s hair, pulling him closer.

Their kiss got sloppier, clothes were discarded (not fast enough for Lando’s liking), moans got louder, and Lando began to melt.

As soon they were lying together, skin to skin,

Lando pulled back slightly, looking up at Carlos with affection and awe.

“I still can’t believe you’re real,” Carlos said softly.

They kiss again, slower this time, savoring the moment. Carlos’s tongue was so far down his throat Lando groaned with pleasure into the Spaniard’s mouth.

That amount of passion carried all through the night as Carlos set ruthless pace. Lando let him himself be lead, Carlos could’ve asked him to do anything in that moment and Lando would’ve done it in a heartbeat.

They reached their climax together, with Lando  pulling rather hard on Carlos’s hair. He clung to Carlos, their bodies moving in perfect harmony, each sensation heightening his emotions.

Then they did it again, and again. It was as if it was the last night they’d ever see each other again. Lando could deal with a week from Carlos if it meant he’d come back to this. They explored each other closely, Lando tried to etch every part of Carlos into his brain, as to never forget. Every mole, freckle, birthmark, nothing escaped his attention.

When it was over, they stayed entwined, their breaths mingling as they came down from the high.

His beautiful Carlos.

-

Lando woke up first, nestled in Carlos’s arms, feeling content. The race, the excitement, and the tension of the past week all seemed so far away in the soft morning light. He turned slightly to look at Carlos, who was still asleep, his features were relaxed and peaceful.

As if sensing Lando’s gaze, Carlos stirred and opened his eyes, a sleepy smile spreading across his face.

“Morning cariño,” he said, his voice husky.

“Morning,” Lando replied, his own smile matching Carlos’s.

“How did you sleep?”

Carlos tightened his hold on Lando.“Better than I have in a long time,” he admitted.

“Having you here makes everything better,” he continued.

Lando felt a flutter in his chest at Carlos’s words. “Oh my god you’re such a romantic.”

“What, you don’t like it?” Carlos teased, scooting impossibly closer to the Brit.

“Oh I love it.”

And it was the truest statement he’d ever said. He secretly loved knowing how much Carlos liked him or when he showed his feelings for Lando.

They laid there for a while, savoring the quiet intimacy of the moment. Eventually, Carlos broke the silence, his tone more serious.

“Lando, I told my sisters we’re dating.”

Lando’s heart skipped several beats. “Hmm what?”

Carlos took a deep breath, his eyes locking onto Lando’s. “I want you to know that I’m serious about this, us.”

All Lando can do is smile, then hide his reddening face in the crook of his lover’s neck. His lips kiss the older’s neck, almost instinctively.

“What’d they say?” He tries to seem normal, but the idea of Ana and Blanca not liking the idea of them dating hurts. He likes them and obviously he values what Carlos’s family thinks.

“Oh, they were so happy Lando. Apparently they had suspected you had a crush on me when we were teammates.”

Lando pushed him away playfully, was he that obvious? Oh well of course he had been, it’s Carlos fucking Sainz.

“I think it’s just something I do, have crushes on my teammates. I mean, have you seen Daniel-“

Now it’s Carlos who pushes him before he can finish his sentence. He pins Lando down on the bed, the sight reminding him of the night they had just shared. Lando laughed, letting Carlos leave light pecks on his neck as he wrapped his arms around his bare shoulders. The feel of the Spaniard’s stubble on his skin made his stomach fill with butterflies.

Carlos stopped abruptly, still on top of Lando, to look him in the eyes, both men smiling.

“Did you actually have a crush on all your teammates? It’s not a big deal, trust me when I say I’m not jealous, but I want to kn-“

“You muppet, of course I didn’t. But I still like seeing you jealous.” He chuckled, hands coming down to cup the Ferrari driver’s face.

“Unless you’ve done what we did last night with another teammate, I have no reason to be jealous.”

He got up from the bed as he said that. So nonchalantly, leaving Lando to groan at the thought. He was still sore, not wanting Carlos to leave the bed.

-

End of 2024 Season / Epilogue

The season had finally come to an end.

The drivers had delt with keeping their relationship private from everyone except their families (and their teammates). Now, with the season behind them, they could finally take a breath and enjoy quiet moments together.

One winter morning, they found themselves in Carlos’s spacious apartment in Madrid. They had decorated the space with twinkling lights and a small Christmas tree.

Both were sprawled out on the couch, wrapped in a warm blanket, even though Carlos complained about being hot.

“This is nice,” Lando murmured, snuggling closer to Carlos. “No races, no schedules, just us.”

Carlos smiled, pressing a kiss to Lando’s temple. “I’ve been looking forward to this.”

It was a morning like many others; Lando was still sleepy, the warmth of Carlos’s presence filled him with a profound sense of peace. His family was so much more ecstatic to welcome Carlos into their lives as Lando’s boyfriend than he had initially imagined.

At some point, Carlos got up to make pancakes, returning with two plates. Lando sat up to take a bite, savoring the sweet flavor.

“You make the best pancakes,” he hummed, his eyes twinkling.

“Of course lindo,” Carlos replied, settling back down beside him. “It’s a special recipe.”

Lando felt a tug at his heart as he looked at Carlos, his lovely boyfriend stuffing his face with pancakes.

“Babe, could you pour me a coffee?” he asked, wiping his mouth on his arm.

“Of course, I forgot.” Carlos got up, leaning over to kiss him before heading to the kitchen.

“Thanks, I love you.”

The words slipped out before he realized what he was saying, and he froze, his eyes widening in shock. Maybe the Spaniard hadn’t heard him; the statement had barely been audible to his own ears. Carlos’s froze in his tracks, however, mirroring his surprise, and for a moment, they just stayed quiet.

“What did you just say?” Carlos asked, coming back to sit on the couch, his unfinished pancakes forgotten on the coffee table.

Panic surged through Lando. “I… I didn’t mean to—” he stammered, his face turning red. “I mean, I didn’t—”

Carlos took Lando’s hands in his, his gaze steady and reassuring. “Lando, it’s okay. Just tell me.”

Lando took a shaky breath, his eyes searching Carlos’s face for any sign of hesitation or doubt. But all he saw was anticipation and understanding.

“I love you,” he said again, more loudly this time. “I’m in love with you, Carlos Sainz Vázquez de Castro.”

Carlos’s grinned as he pulled Lando into a tender kiss.

“I love you too,” he whispered against his lips. “So much amor.”

The relief and joy that flooded Lando’s heart was overwhelming. He felt Carlos’s hands moving gently, caressing his back, and he melted into the embrace.

Carlos’s touch was tender and loving, his lips trailing soft kisses along Lando’s ear.

“You’re everything to me, Lando,” he murmured, his voice husky with emotion.

“Say it again,” he whispered back, his voice trembling.

“Te amo, te amo, te amo.”

Lando felt tears prick at the corners of his eyes, the words sounded like music.

“Te amo?” Lando said, but it came out as a question.

Carlos smiled, his eyes shining with affection.

“Perfect pronunciation,” he replied, kissing Lando’s forehead. “Say again please.”

The Brit laughed at the incorrect sentence.

They drifted off to sleep in each other’s arms after finishing their breakfast. Lando couldn’t get enough of him. He never would.

The season had ended, but their journey together was just beginning.