#harrysfolklore

The first clip was from a GQ conversation where Joe was asked about balancing acting and music.

“I think having something grounding outside of work is really important,” Joe said thoughtfully. “My girlfriend is really good at reminding me that none of this stuff matters if you’re not happy.”

The interviewer nodded.

“I mean, she also keeps me from overworking myself,” he added quickly. “Like, she’ll literally take my phone away.”

The comments later labeled it a man who's down bad.

The next scene jumped to a Stranger Things cast panel at a convention. A fan asked what the cast did to unwind after long shoot days.

“I’d go home and play guitar,” Joe answered. “Sometimes my girlfriened would sit on the floor and just listen. She’s brutally honest, though.”

“How honest?” Gaten asked, leaning into his mic.

“She’ll stop me mid-song and say, ‘That one’s bad, try again.’”

The crowd laughed, but Joe just smiled. “She’s usually right.”

Then came a SiriusXM interview, Joe leaning back in his chair as the host asked about his songwriting process for Djo.

“A lot of it comes from real life,” Joe said. “Trips, conversations, little moments. My girlfriend inspires a lot of it, honestly.”

“So she’s your muse?” the host teased.

Joe didn’t even hesitate. “Yeah. Completely.”

The video cut to a chaotic Instagram Live Joe did late one night. He was answering fan questions when someone commented, ‘Blink twice if you’re in love.’

Joe laughed, glanced off-screen, then blinked exaggeratedly about five times.

“Hey,” a voice off-camera said. “You’re being weird.”

Joe grinned. “That’s my girlfriend, everyone.”

The chat exploded.

One of the final clips was from a magazine photoshoot behind-the-scenes. Joe was flipping through the proofs when the photographer asked which shots he liked best.

“These ones,” he said, tapping the page.

“Why those?”

“Because my girlfiend said I look like myself in them. That’s usually how I decide things,” he said.

The compilation ended with red carpet footage from a Stranger Things premiere.

“Who are you most excited to celebrate with tonight?” the reporter asked.

Joe didn’t miss a beat.

“My girlfriend,” he said simply. “She’s my favorite person to do anything with.”

Cut to black. Text appeared on screen:

Joe Keery is not beating the ‘down bad’ allegations. Ever.

Y/n ‘s chest tightened. She trusted Lando; he was her best friend. But Magui? That was a different story. The betrayal wasn’t overt yet, but it was simmering.

I got a lack of good judgment Judging by the fact I got close to you (oh, no)

She took a deep breath, trying to keep her composure. Her fingers wrapped tightly around her glass, the cold condensation matching the chill creeping into her heart. It wasn’t like she hadn’t noticed Magui’s wandering eyes before, but this… this felt different.

The music throbbed through the room, drowning out the noise in her head. Time should have made it easier. The feelings she had for Lando were always there, bubbling beneath the surface, but they were supposed to fade. Or at least that's what she kept telling herself.

Time should heal, but it doesn't Or maybe 'cause you still haven't told the truth (oh, no)

Y/n’s gaze snapped back to Magui and Lando, who were laughing about something. Her stomach twisted, bile rising in her throat. Magui wasn’t just any friend; she was the one person who knew Anastasia’s secret, the one who understood how much Lando meant to her. And now? Now, Magui was flirting with him like she didn’t care about any of it.

She knew she needed to confront Magui. But how do you tell a friend that they’ve crossed a line without breaking everything apart?

Y/n stood by the railing, staring out at the glittering city below. Her phone buzzed in her hand—Lando, asking where she was. She ignored it. Not yet. She wasn’t ready to face him, not while the knot in her chest twisted tighter with every thought of him and Magui.

If you keep a secret, I will tooBut don't take advantage 'cause I'm nice to you (oh, no)

The door creaked open behind her, and there was the unmistakable click of heels. Magui. Y/n didn’t turn around. She could feel her presence, the same presence that now felt like a shadow looming over everything.

“Hey, why’d you run off?” Magui’s voice was light, too casual, like nothing had happened. Like Y/n hadn’t just watched her best friend flirt with the one person who knew how much it would hurt.

Y/n  took a deep breath, her fingers tightening around the cold metal of the railing. “I needed some air,” she replied, trying to keep her voice even. She wasn’t ready to explode—not yet.

Magui leaned against the balcony beside her, her eyes scanning Y/n’s face with a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “You seemed off tonight. Everything okay?”

You know there's nothing worse than missing the signs 'Cause you pulled the wool right over your eyes

Y/n’s eyes flicked to Magui, the hurt gnawing at her. How could she stand there and pretend like nothing was happening? “I saw you,” she said, her voice low but sharp. “With Lando.”

Magui blinked, feigning innocence. “What do you mean? He’s your best friend. We were just talking.”

I'll admit when I'm wrong, but this time I'm right I'm sorry, but I'll never see your side

Y/n shook her head, her heart pounding. She knew Magui better than this. “Don’t play dumb, Magui. You knew how I felt about him. You know everything.” Her voice cracked with emotion, but she wouldn’t back down. Not now.

Magui’s smile faltered for a second, and something dark flashed in her eyes. “You’re being dramatic, Y/n/n. It’s not like you own him.”

The words cut deeper than they should have. Y/n took a step back, suddenly feeling like the ground beneath her was slipping. No, she didn’t own him—but that didn’t give Magui the right to cross that line.

Magui’s words echoed in the air between them, and for a moment, the silence was louder than the music pulsing from inside. Y/n’s heart hammered in her chest, her emotions teetering between anger and heartbreak.

“I trusted you,” Y/n’s whispered, her voice hoarse. “You knew exactly what Lando means to me, and you still went for him.”

Magui rolled her eyes, her demeanor shifting from innocent to indifferent. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. We were just having fun.”

Fun. The word stung. Y/n could barely keep her composure now. She had always considered Magui a close friend, but this? This was betrayal wrapped in a smirk.

Said she was a girl's girl, that's a lie Said she had my back, but she had the knife

“Is that what you call it?” Y/n’s voice rose, laced with disbelief. “You call it ‘fun’ to go after someone you know I care about? How many times have you done this, Magui? I could never—” she stopped, choking on her words.

Magui crossed her arms, unbothered by the rising tension. “You’re being overdramatic, Y/n/n. Lando’s not yours, and he’s allowed to have other friends.”

“Friends,” Y/n repeated, her voice cold. “I’ve seen you do this before. Once with João, now with Lando. I would never do something like this to you. Never.”

I could never do it once and she did it twice And you wonder why, and you wonder why We're not alike

Magui’s expression hardened, but Y/n was done. She couldn’t listen to her excuses anymore. Every word felt like another knife twist in her back, confirming what she had feared all along—Magui had never been a real friend. She was just another person who saw Y/n’s vulnerability as an opportunity. So desperate for a speck of attention from anyone.

Y/n turned away from Magui, her breath coming in shallow gasps as she fought to regain control of her emotions. The cold air did little to calm the storm inside her. She thought about Lando, about everything that could have been, and realized she had to let go—of him, of Magui, of the hurt that had been festering in her heart for far too long.

Y/n swirled the last sip of whiskey in her glass as she listened to Carlos talk about his most recent race. He was animated, his eyes bright with passion as he described the thrill of the track. She smiled, letting the sound of his voice wash over her. It was a welcome distraction from the constant replay of memories involving Lando.

Carlos leaned back, his eyes meeting hers. “You’ve been quiet tonight. Am I boring you?”

She shook her head, laughing softly. “No, not at all. I’m just… thinking.”

He nodded knowingly, his gaze softening. “About him?”

Y/n winced at the mention of Lando, but she didn’t shy away. She’d been avoiding it long enough. “Yeah,” she admitted, her voice quiet. “It’s hard to get him out of my head. I thought things were different between us, but maybe I just imagined it all.”

Carlos studied her for a moment, then reached across the table, his hand brushing hers. “You deserve better than being stuck in the ‘what ifs,’ Y/n/n. Lando doesn’t see what he has in front of him. That’s his problem, not yours.”

His words were gentle but firm, and for the first time in weeks, she felt like she could breathe a little easier. Carlos didn’t push her to forget Lando completely, but he gave her the space to talk about it without feeling judged or pitied.

We're not alike We're not alike

Y/n sighed, running a hand through her hair. “I keep thinking about what Magui said. How she told me Lando and I would be perfect together. Like she was rooting for us, but the whole time she was… I don’t know… waiting for her chance.”

Carlos leaned in slightly, his voice steady. “So, when did she decide she wanted him instead?”

Y/n’s eyes darkened as she thought about it. “I don’t know. It was always little things, like she was testing the waters, seeing how far she could go without crossing the line. But now, I don’t think there ever was a line for her.”

Told me him and I would look so good So when did you decide you want him instead? (You want him instead)

She clenched her fist, the anger that had simmered for weeks finally starting to bubble to the surface. “I’m not saying I’m petty for being upset… but she’s not innocent, Carlos. She knew exactly what she was doing.”

Carlos’s gaze remained steady on hers, the tension between them palpable. He didn’t say anything for a moment, just let her talk, let her vent the frustration she had been bottling up.

No, I'm not saying I'm petty But there's no sayin' that you're so innocent (No, you're not innocent)

Y/n felt a weight lift as she said the words aloud, admitting what she had been holding back for so long. It was liberating in a way, to acknowledge that Magui had crossed a line and that it wasn’t her fault for feeling betrayed. It wasn’t just about Lando—it was about the friendship that had been shattered in the process.

The roar of engines filled the air as Y/n strode through the paddock. Her sunglasses shielded her eyes from the bright sunlight, but they also served as a barrier from the curious stares of those who recognized her. She hadn’t been to a race in weeks, and she had ignored all of Lando’s texts and calls. Magui’s too, though her silence toward Magui felt like more of a victory. She was done pretending everything was okay.

The familiar sounds of race weekend buzzed around her, but she kept her focus forward. Today wasn’t about reconnecting with Lando or getting caught up in the drama that had been suffocating her for too long. Today, she had a new purpose.

Lando was the first to spot her as she approached the garages. He jogged over, a hopeful smile stretching across his face. “Y/n/n! I thought you weren’t coming this weekend, come on I still reserved your seat in the McLaren garage!.”

She took a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest as she reached into her bag and pulled out her paddock pass. Lando’s eyes flickered with confusion as she handed it over for him to see. The pass read “Ferrari.”

“I’m not here for you, Lando,” she said calmly, though the emotions roiled beneath the surface. “I’m here for Carlos.”

Lando’s smile faltered, his confusion turning into something more tense, more uncertain. “Carlos? Since when are you…?”

Y/n’s gaze hardened. She wasn’t about to get into the details, not with him. “It doesn’t matter. What does matter is that I’m done with all of this.” She gestured around, meaning more than just the paddock. “I tried to move on, but Magui? She’s not the person you think she is.”

You know there's nothing worse than missing the signs 'Cause you pulled the wool right over your eyes

Lando’s brows furrowed, his expression shifting to one of defensiveness. “What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about the fact that Magui cheated on João—multiple times. She lied to him, and now she’s doing the same to you. Open your eyes, Lando.”

His jaw tightened, clearly unwilling to accept the truth. “Magui and I… it’s different.”

I'll admit when I'm wrong, but this time I'm right I'm sorry, but I'll never see your side

Y/n shook her head, the frustration boiling up inside her. “You think she’s different with you? She’s not. She’s doing what she always does—pretending to care while keeping her options open.”

Lando stared at her, speechless for a moment. “Y/n/n, you don’t know that.”

“I do know that. And deep down, you do too.” Her voice softened slightly. She didn’t want to hurt him, but the truth needed to be said. “You deserve someone who actually respects you, Lando. And it’s not Magui.”

Lando’s expression shifted from confusion to defensiveness, his jaw tightening as she spoke. “You don’t get to tell me who I should and shouldn’t be with, Y/n!” he snapped, anger flaring in his eyes. “You’re just mad because we’re not fawning over you anymore.”

Y/n’s heart sank. “Are you serious?! This isn’t about me, Lando! It’s about you—”

I could never do it once and she did it twice And you wonder why, and you wonder why We're not alike

“Maybe you’re just jealous!” Lando cut her off, his voice rising. “You want to act like you care, but all you’re doing is trying to sabotage my happiness. You don’t want me to be with Magui because you still have feelings for me!” The accusation stung, and she took a step back, shocked by his words. “That’s a low blow. I’m trying to protect you.”

“From what?” he shot back, hands on his hips. “From someone who actually likes me? You’re just bitter because things didn’t work out.”

“Stop it, Lando!” she urged, her frustration bubbling over. “This isn’t about me! You’re too caught up in what you want to believe. Magui isn’t good for you!”

At that moment, Carlos stepped out from the Ferrari garage, sensing the tension as he approached. “What’s going on here?” Lando turned his anger on Carlos, his voice filled with frustration. “Stay out of this, Carlos! This is between me and Y/n/n.”

Carlos raised his hands in a placating gesture. “Lando, cool off. We’re all friends here. Y/n/n is just looking out for you.”

Lando’s eyes narrowed, the fury radiating from him. “She’s not my friend if she’s trying to ruin my relationship!”

You said she was a girl's girl, that's a lie Said she had my back, but she had the knife

“Lando, I’m not ruining anything,” Y/n interjected, her voice steady. “I’m trying to make you see the truth. Magui is not who you think she is.”

“You don’t know anything about us!” Lando shouted, turning back to her, his face flushed with anger. “You’re just mad that I’m moving on!”

“Moving on?” Y/n laughed bitterly, shaking her head. “Moving on or moving into another trap? You’re blinded by your feelings for her!”

“Enough!” Carlos snapped, stepping between them. “This isn’t helping anyone. Lando, you need to take a step back and actually think about what Y/n/n is saying.”

Lando shot Carlos a furious glare, the tension in the air thickening. “What do you know about my life, Carlos? You think you can come in here and play the mediator?”

I could never do it once and she did it twice And you wonder why, and you wonder why We're not alike

Y/n watched the argument unfold, her heart pounding. This wasn’t how she envisioned things going, but she knew they had to face this head-on. She could only hope Lando would eventually see through Magui’s facade.

“I’m just trying to help,” Carlos replied, frustration seeping into his voice. “We all care about you, Lando. But you need to listen.”

Lando’s expression remained hardened, caught between anger and confusion. “I don’t need help. I need you both to stay out of my life.” With that, he stormed off, leaving Y/n and Carlos standing in the paddock, tension crackling in the air.

The atmosphere was electric as the Ferrari team gathered for their celebratory drinks after a successful podium finish. Carlos had secured second place, and his teammate had clinched the top spot, the bubbly champagne flowing freely among the team members.

Y/n sat at the edge of the table, her heart racing with excitement for Carlos but also weighed down by the earlier confrontation with Lando. He hadn’t tried to talk to her again, respecting the space she had put between them. Instead, she felt a sense of liberation sitting among the Ferrari team, feeling lighter every time Carlos smiled at her.

And you wonder why, and you wonder why And you wonder why We're not alike

Carlos raised his glass, a playful grin on his face as he looked over at Y/n. “To new beginnings,” he toasted, his gaze steady on hers. “And to not letting anything hold us back.”

She clinked her glass against his, a thrill running through her at the thought of what lay ahead. It felt like the past was finally slipping away, piece by piece.

“Cheers!” the table echoed, laughter and cheer echoing around them. The energy in the room was infectious, and she couldn’t help but let herself be swept up in it.

As the night progressed, the club they moved to pulsed with energy. The beats of the music vibrated through the air, and Carlos was by her side, his hand brushing against her lower back as they moved through the throng of people. She could feel the heat radiating from him, igniting a fire deep within her.

The club was dark and filled with strobing lights, the music pounding in a way that matched the rhythm of her heart. Y/n felt a thrill coursing through her as she danced close to Carlos, their bodies moving in sync with the beat. She was tipsy, light-headed, and more confident than she had felt in ages.

Carlos leaned in closer, his lips brushing against her ear as he shouted over the music, “You look amazing tonight, Y/n/n.”

She smirked, leaning back to meet his gaze, their faces inches apart. “Thanks. You don’t look so bad yourself, Sainz.”

The chemistry between them was undeniable, the flirtation simmering just beneath the surface. She could feel the heat radiating from him, and her pulse quickened. As the song changed, Carlos pulled her closer, his hands sliding around her waist, holding her securely against him. The world around them faded as they lost themselves in the music, their bodies moving closer, more intimately. Y/n could feel the warmth of his breath against her neck, sending shivers down her spine.

“Do you want to get out of here?” Carlos asked, his voice low, laced with temptation. She hesitated for a moment, glancing around the club, but then she looked into his eyes—full of promise, excitement, and something deeper that made her heart race. “Yes,” she breathed, the word coming out as a whisper.

And you know I'm right, and you know I'm right

Carlos grinned, taking her hand and leading her through the crowd, their fingers intertwined. The moment felt electric, as if they were stepping into a new world together, leaving behind all the chaos that had followed them. Outside the club, the cool night air hit her, and Carlos turned to her, their faces close once more. “Are you sure about this?” he asked, searching her eyes. Y/n’s heart raced. “More than I’ve been sure about anything in a long time.”

And you know I'm right

Their lips met, the kiss igniting something fierce between them. It was hungry and passionate, the kind of kiss that promised everything she had been yearning for. She melted into him, losing herself in the moment, the noise of the club fading away as the world around them fell silent.

Y/n stirred awake, the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. She blinked against the brightness, trying to piece together the events of the previous night. Memories flooded back—dancing, laughter, and then the intoxicating kiss with Carlos. But then her gaze fell to her hand, and her heart dropped.

A ring sparkled on her finger, the sunlight glinting off the metal. Confusion washed over her as she sat up, glancing around the unfamiliar hotel room. Her heart raced as she spotted a marriage certificate lying on the nightstand, the bold letters staring back at her: Carlos Sainz & Y/n Y/l/n

She calls herself a girl's girl, that's a lie Said she had my back, but she had the knife

“What the hell?” she muttered, her mind racing. Panic surged through her as she pulled the sheets up to her chin. Had they really gotten married? Her pulse quickened, anxiety clawing at her stomach. Just then, Carlos emerged from the bathroom, a towel slung low on his hips, droplets of water still clinging to his skin. He stopped short, his expression shifting from surprise to amusement. “Good morning, sleepyhead.”

“What happened last night?” she asked, her voice rising in panic. “Did we actually…?”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “Well, we definitely had a wild night, but it looks like we took it to the next level.” Y/n felt the heat flood her cheeks. “This is insane! We can’t be married!”

I could never do it once and she did it twice And you wonder why, wonder why

“Is it really that bad?” Carlos asked, raising an eyebrow, clearly trying to gauge her reaction.

“Yes! I mean, no! I don’t know!” She ran a hand through her hair, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. “This was supposed to be a fun night out, not… not a marriage!”

Carlos stepped closer, a teasing smile playing on his lips. “Well, we did have a good time, didn’t we?”

“Sure, but I don’t want to rush into anything!” she protested, though her heart raced at the thought of what this could mean. “Or maybe this is just what we needed. A fresh start,” he replied, his tone light yet sincere.

Y/n looked down at the ring, her heart pounding. Maybe it was crazy, but perhaps this was the escape she needed from the drama surrounding Lando and Magui. A chance to embrace something new without the baggage. Fuck it, she thought, feeling a sense of freedom wash over her. “You know what? I’m not going to stress about this. We can figure it out as we go.”

Carlos grinned, a spark lighting up his eyes. “That’s the spirit. So, how about we actually date for real now?”

“Yeah,” she said, a smile breaking across her face. “Let’s do that.” She slipped the ring off, holding it up for him to see. “But we’ll need to find a better way to celebrate next time.” He laughed, pulling her in close as she settled back against the pillows, their new beginning full of promise and potential. Time had passed, and the once fragile relationship between Y/n and Carlos had blossomed into something real. They had become the paddock’s “it” couple—glamorous, adored, and solid. Everywhere they went, people gravitated toward them, their easygoing chemistry and support for each other visible to all. It felt like a fresh chapter, free from the chaos of the past.

Meanwhile, Lando and Magui’s relationship had spiraled into a toxic mess. Rumors of her cheating circled like vultures, and Lando, despite everything, forgave her again and again. Y/n had distanced herself, cutting off all ties with both of them, choosing peace over the drama that once consumed her life.

She calls herself a girl's girl, that's a lie (that's a fuckin' lie) Said she had my back, but she had the knife

Hand in hand with Carlos, Y/n walked through the Monza paddock, her heart light as they chatted about the upcoming race. Carlos’s arm slipped comfortably around her waist as they stopped to greet team members and fans. The familiar murmur of cameras and fans buzzing around them.

They hadn’t even made it halfway through the garage area when they bumped straight into Lando and Magui. The tension was palpable, the years of unspoken conflict hanging in the air. Magui's eyes lit up with a malicious glint as she smirked, her gaze raking over Y/n with thinly veiled disdain. “Well, look who it is,” Magui sneered, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “The queen and her Ferrari prince.” She eyed the couple with a toxic mix of jealousy and arrogance. “You’re really milking this for all it’s worth, aren’t you, Y/n/n?”

Y/n stood tall, her chin lifted, unfazed by Magui’s attempt to rile her. “It’s funny, Magui,” she said coolly, “you talk a lot about loyalty and sisterhood, but we both know that’s a lie. At least I know how to be faithful to the people I care about,” she shot back, her voice icy but calm. “Not something you can say, right?”

I could never do it once then she did it twice And you wonder why, yeah, you wonder why We're not alike

Magui’s smile faltered, her eyes narrowing as she sensed the change in Y/n. Magui’s smirk faltered, her eyes narrowing. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.” Y/n pressed on, her tone sharp and cutting.

“You think belittling me is going to make you feel better about your own insecurities? You’re the one who couldn’t keep a promise to anyone, including Lando,” Y/n continued, her gaze flicking to Lando, who looked torn between frustration and embarrassment. “Maybe you should focus on your own mess before coming for me. You made your bed now lay in it.”

Magui’s face twisted with anger, but Carlos stepped in, his voice low and icy. “Y/n/n doesn’t need to waste her time with you.” He shot a disgusted glance at Magui, his distaste clear as she looked him up and down. “Don’t even think about it, Magui. You might fool Lando, but you don’t fool me.” Magui tried to flash Carlos her most charming smile, her voice syrupy as she tilted her head. “Come on, Carlos, we were always good together, don’t you think?”

Carlos’s expression hardened, his hand tightening around Y/n’s waist. “Not in a million years,” he said, his disgust evident. “You’re not even worth the thought.”

We're not alike We're not alike

Y/n felt a rush of satisfaction seeing Magui flounder, her usual smugness crumbling. She shot one last glance at Lando, who stood silently, avoiding eye contact with everyone. She couldn’t save him from Magui’s web, but she had moved on, and she was happier than she had ever been.

“Let’s go, Carlos,” Y/n said softly, her voice steady, her hand firmly gripping his. She turned to leave, Carlos’s arm protectively wrapping around her as they walked away. As they strolled hand in hand through the paddock, the weight of the past falling away behind them, Y/n felt lighter than ever. She had made her choice, and it was clear she had chosen the right path.

Carlos leaned down, his voice low in her ear. “You handled that perfectly, mi amor.”

The restaurant’s tucked into a quiet corner of Milan, the kind of place where the pasta is hand-rolled and the waiters don’t bother with menus. Franco had picked it for your anniversary, all dim lights and intimate corners, a little too classy for how much you wanted to climb across the table and kiss him breathless.

He grins from across the table, chin propped in his palm, curls just messy enough to be illegal.

“Tenés esa mirada,” he hums, wagging a fork at you.  [you’ve got that look]

You raise an eyebrow. “Huh?”

“I said you’ve got that look. The ‘I’m up to something and you’re not ready’ look. Classic vos.”

You fight the smile. He’s not wrong.

He’s been rambling for minutes — about how he saw a dog on the way here that reminded him of a loaf of bread, how he couldn’t focus on reading the team brief this morning because "vos me distraés demasiado, boluda" [you distract me too much, idiot] — and you’ve let him go on. Let him fill the space with stories and laughter, his fingers dancing in the air like punctuation.

But then the waiter comes over. And you strike.

“Buenas noches. Vamos a empezar con la burrata y el carpaccio, por favor. Y después . . . el risotto de setas para mí, y él quiere la pasta al pesto. Ah, y una copa de Malbec, por supuesto.” [good evening. we'll start with the burrata and carpaccio, please. and then… the mushroom risotto for me, and he wants the pesto pasta. oh, and a glass of malbec, of course]

The fork slips from Franco’s fingers like his soul just left his body.

“ . . . ¿Qué?” […what]

You lean back, all cool and casual, sipping your water like you didn’t just short-circuit your boyfriend.

“¿Querés pan o estás bien?” [do you want bread or are you good]

“¿Desde cuándo hablas español así?!” [since when do you speak Spanish like that]

You shrug. “Been practicing. I wanted to surprise you. Happy anniversary, mi amor.”

He stares at you, stunned.

Franco Colapinto? Speechless? Nobel-level achievement.

“You’re insane,” he breathes, laughing now, eyes shining. “This is . . . This is better than points at williams.”

“Oh, that important?”

“Sí. Porque vos… Dios, vos me dejás sin palabras.” [yes. Because you… god, you leave me speechless.)

You grin. “That a good thing?”

“The best thing.”

He reaches across the table, threading his fingers through yours, thumb brushing your knuckles like he’s grounding himself.

“Vos no sabés lo que esto significa para mí,” he murmurs. [you have no idea what this means to me]

You do, actually. You know about the sacrifices, the grind, the childhood kart weekends running on empanadas and duct tape. You know his heart — how big it is, how much it carries. And you learned his language not just for the words, but for him.

For the boy who talks too much and feels too deeply. For the man who’s yours.

“Te amo,” you say softly. [i love you]

And for once, Franco doesn’t have a witty comeback. Just a crooked smile, a kiss pressed to your knuckles, and eyes that say everything else.

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One Day 5.4k an extra for 404 Jack Shit 1.6k @freedomfireflies

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The Silent Type 5k @purplecoffee13

Fixating 2.2k @harryhitties

Blindfolded 10k Tension 6k @heartateasee

The Trio 3k @gurugirl

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liked by georgerussell63, landonorris and 206,378 others

yn.russell silverstone race weekends always hit different 🥹 big bro starting front row tomorrow and i couldn’t be prouder LETS GOOOO

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username1 the most iconic russell

username2 COME ON RUSSELL NATION

landonorris excuse me why didn’t you include a picture of your future husband here ??

↳ yn.russell lando your delusions are talking again

↳ username1 hey he ALWAYS does this

↳ username2 lando and yn’s banter will never get old

carmenmmundt Love you both ❤️

username3 LANDO BEING ANNOYING IN THIS COMMENT SECTION AS ALWAYS

charles_leclerc I see homeboy trying to shoot his shot again

↳ landonorris what are you talking about? we’ll get married

↳ yn.russell LANDO STOP 😭

username4 she’s the real paddock princess

username5 lando really said fake it till you make it

username6 GEORGIE BOY DID IT

georgerussell63 Love you so much little one 🤍 Also Lando, she’s still my sister

↳ landonorris and? she’s my girl 😍

↳ yn.russell STOP

liked by yn.russell, maxverstappen1 and 986,409 others

landonorris honey i’m hooooome 🇬🇧😘 picture by my favorite girl @/yn.russell

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username1 LANDOOOOO

username2 the papaya hat is killing me

username3 CALLING LITTLE RUSSELL HIS GIRL AS ALWAYS

mclaren Papaya forever 🧡

username4 manifesting lando and yn wedding

carlossainz55 Just wait until George finds you cabron

↳ landonorris he knows she’s my future wife

↳ georgerussell63 I HATE YOU

username5 DYING AT THIS COMMENT SECTION LANDO YOU HAVE NO SHAME

username6 lando and yn are my favorite platonic lovers (actually there’s nothing platonic about them we all know it)

username7 SO BOYFRIEND CODED

yn.russell lando i need you to look at me when i tell you this…

↳ landonorris yes i do darling 😍

↳ georgerussell63 I’m literally never letting you two fly together again

↳ username1 IM WHEEZING

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

You're lounging in George's motorhome at the track, scrolling through your phone while he reviews data with Alex. Carmen is perched on the sofa beside you, both of you sharing occasional knowing looks at the boys' intense focus on lap times.

"Oh, by the way," you say casually, not looking up from your phone, "I won't be around for dinner tonight. Got a date."

The effect is immediate. George's head snaps up from the screen, Alex nearly drops his water bottle, and Carmen tries (and fails) to hide her amused smile.

"A date?" George's protective brother mode activates instantly. "With who?"

"That new marketing guy from McLaren," you reply, finally glancing up. "Jacob. You know, the one I was talking to at the paddock party last week?"

"The tall blonde one?" Alex pipes up, earning himself a sharp look from George.

"Not helping, mate," George mutters.

"He seems nice," Carmen offers diplomatically, though there's something knowing in her expression that you can't quite read.

"Speaking of nice," Alex says with a poorly concealed grin, "should we tell Lando? You know, since he's been planning your wedding since 2018 and all."

The friendship between you and Lando dates back to karting days, when you'd tag along with George to races. You were fourteen when you first met a tiny, curly-haired Lando who immediately declared you were "pretty cool for a girl." Despite George's protective big brother routine, you and Lando became inseparable during race weekends.

The marriage jokes started right when Lando was making his F2 debut. You were both hanging out in the paddock when he suddenly announced, "When we get married, our wedding colors have to be papaya orange. Because I know I'll drive for Mclaren"

"Bold of you to assume I'd marry you, Norris," you'd laughed.

"Please, you love me," he'd grinned, throwing an arm around your shoulders. "Plus, I've already told my mum you're the one. Can't disappoint her now, darling."

That was the first time he called you darling, but it certainly wasn't the last. Over the years, the pet names multiplied - love, sweetheart, future wife - each one delivered with that characteristic Lando grin that somehow managed to be both cheeky and endearing.

But at the end of the day, he was Lando. And it was all jokes.

"He's probably too busy planning our honeymoon in papaya-colored paradise to care about my actual dating life," you said, trying to sound casual.

"I wouldn't be so sure about that," Carmen murmurs, just as the door bursts open.

Lando's characteristic energy walks in, his curls slightly messy from his helmet. "Hello lads! Future wife," he grins, making his way over and dramatically flopping onto the couch, his head landing in your lap like it's his designated spot.

"Comfortable?" you ask dryly, but your hand automatically goes to his curls.

"Very," he beams up at you. "Why's everyone looking so serious though? Did George finally realize his neck's too long?"

"Ha ha," George deadpans, while Carmen tries to hide her laugh behind her hand.

"Little Russell was just telling us she's got a date tonight," Alex announces, clearly enjoying the drama unfolding.

Lando sits up so fast he nearly headbutts you. "A what now?"

"A date," you repeat, watching as his face does a complicated journey before settling on forced nonchalance. "With Jacob from marketing."

"McLaren Jacob?" Lando's voice goes up an octave. "My Jacob?"

"He's not your Jacob," you roll your eyes. "And yes, that Jacob."

"The one who still can't figure out how to work the coffee machine?" Lando scoffs, repositioning himself to face you properly. "Come on, darling, you can do better than that. What happened to our sacred Friday night FIFA tournaments?"

"Sacred?" George snorts. "Is that what you call screaming at the TV when she beats you?"

"Oi, whose side are you on?" Lando throws a nearby cushion at George. "Besides, I let her win. Can't have my girl crying, can I?"

"Your girl?" you raise an eyebrow, ignoring the way your stomach flips at his words.

"Obviously," he grins, but there's something slightly off about it. "Who else is going to fulfill my mum's dreams of having you as a daughter-in-law?"

"I'm sure Jacob would love to hear about these marriage plans," Alex teases, earning himself a glare from Lando.

"He better watch himself," Lando mutters, then louder, "Where's he taking you anyway? Probably somewhere boring like that chain restaurant near the factory."

"Actually," you say, "he's taking me to that new rooftop place in town."

"The one I said we should try?" Lando looks genuinely offended now. "That's just... that's just rude, love. I called dibs on taking you there."

"When exactly did you call dibs?" Carmen asks innocently.

"In my head," Lando protests. "This is not fair."

You poke his side. "Jealous, Norris?"

"Of course I am," he says, and for a moment, his voice loses its playful edge. "Can't have someone stealing my future wife away. We've got plans, remember? House in Surrey, three kids, dog named Fernando..."

"You've really thought this through, haven't you?" you laugh.

"Been planning our future since I was fourteen, love," he grins, but there's something soft in his eyes. "Now, would you cancel on Jacob and have a proper movie night with your future husband instead?"

"Still not your wife, Lando," you remind him.

"Not yet," he corrects, "But I'm a patient man, darling."

"Okay this is getting weird," Alex chimes in, "Lando, we're leaving. Little Russell, have fun on your date."

"Right," Lando stands up, but his usual bouncy energy seems subdued. "Have fun with boring Jacob. But just remember," he points at you with mock seriousness, though something flickers in his eyes, "I'm not giving up without a fight. Can't let some marketing guy steal the love of my life, can I?"

"The love of your life?" you roll your eyes, ignoring the way your heart skips.

"Since karting, darling," he winks, but it doesn't quite reach his eyes. "Come on, Alex, let's leave the Russell siblings to their protective brother-sister chat."

As soon as the door closes behind them, Carmen turns to you with raised eyebrows. "You really have that boy pining over you, you know that right?"

"Oh please," you wave her off, though your cheeks feel warm. "We're just joking around. We've been doing this since forever."

"Sure, sister, sure," George snorts, exchanging a knowing look with Carmen. "Because every guy I know plans out their future house in Surrey with their 'joke' wife."

"And names their future dog Fernando," Carmen adds.

"It's just Lando being Lando," you insist, but you can't help glancing at the door where he'd disappeared. "He jokes like this with everyone."

"Really?" Carmen leans forward. "Because I've never heard him call anyone else 'the love of his life' or 'darling' or plan out their wedding colors."

"Or look like someone kicked his puppy when they mention going on a date with someone else," George adds.

"You're both reading way too much into this," you say, standing up and grabbing your bag. "I have to go get ready for my date with Jacob."

"The date that Lando looked absolutely thrilled about," George mutters under his breath.

You pretend not to hear him as you leave, trying to ignore the way Lando's slightly hurt expression keeps playing in your mind.

Because it's all jokes. And he's just Lando.

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

liked by carmenmmundt, lilymhe and 211,984 others

yn.russell great great night 😙

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username1 OMGG LITTLE RUSSELL

username2 she's so pretty its not fair

flonorris1 we need to catch up 👀

username3 HUHH DID LANDO FINALLY ASK HER OUT

username4 how did george allow her to go on a date

charles_leclerc Oblivious little baby russell

↳ yn.russell ?

↳ username1 EXPLAIN

iamrebeccad Prettiest girl 😍

jacob___ ❤️

↳ yn.russell 😘

↳ georgerussell63 I'm watching...

↳ username1 IM YELLING

↳ username2 WHATS GOING ONNN

landonorris the prettiest girl in the world and my future wife idc idc

↳ username1 lando have some class ffs

↳ yn.russell ENOUGH

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

liked by carmenmmundt, jacob__ and 229,836 others

yn.russell snaps from the summer break 💙 happy happy

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username1 AN ICON

username2 i wish i was this pinterest feed coded

carmenmmundt Love you my girl !

username3 HOLD ON. THE SECOND PICTURE

username4 did she just soft launch 👀👀

username5 LITTLE RUSSELL HAS A BOYFRIEND ?????

username6 if her bf is not lando we don’t want it

alex_albon i know someone who’s NOT going to like this

landonorris my darling 😍😍 do u miss me as much as i miss youuuu?

↳ username1 HES SHAMELESS

↳ yn.russell STOP THIS MADNESS

georgerussell63 I know a lot of ways to make a crash look accidental

↳ yn.russell you’re literally not intimidating anyone BYE

↳ username1 SO SHE DOES HAVE A BF

jacob__ ❤️

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

The sun is surprisingly bright as you make your way through the Zandvoort paddock, dodging various team personnel rushing around for Thursday preparations. The summer break was finally over and it was time for race cars again. You're just turning the corner when you hear a familiar voice.

"There's my darling!" Lando calls out, jogging over with his signature grin. "Thought you'd forgotten about your future husband during the break."

Before you can respond, he's pulled you into a tight hug. You catch a whiff of his familiar cologne, the one he's worn since F2, and automatically hug him back.

"How was your summer?" he asks, keeping an arm around your shoulders as he starts walking with you. "Did you miss me terribly? Cry yourself to sleep thinking about our FIFA rematch?"

"Actually," you start, feeling unexpectedly nervous, "I've got some news."

"Oh?" His eyes light up. "Did George finally admit his neck is abnormally long? Because I've been saying—"

"Jacob and I are officially together," you cut in quickly, like ripping off a bandaid. "Like, properly together. Boyfriend and girlfriend."

Lando's step falters slightly, his arm dropping from your shoulders. "What?"

"Yeah," you continue, fiddling with your paddock pass. "We kept seeing each other after that first date, and during the break... it just got serious."

"Serious?" His voice sounds strange. "How serious? When did this— why am I just finding out about this?"

"We wanted to keep it quiet at first, you know? But he talked to the higher-ups at McLaren today about dating someone connected to another team, and they're cool with it, so..." you trail off, watching his face carefully.

"Cool with it," he repeats slowly. Then, visibly forcing his usual grin, "Well, that's... that's great, love. Really great. Though I have to say, my mum will be devastated. She was really counting on those papaya-themed grandchildren."

But his joke falls flat, lacking its usual warmth. His smile doesn't quite reach his eyes.

"Lando—"

"No, really," he cuts in, running a hand through his curls. "I'm happy for you. Even if he is rubbish at making coffee. And boring. And probably doesn't even know your favorite ice cream flavor is mint chocolate chip, or that you secretly love watching those terrible reality shows, or that you—" he stops himself, clearing his throat. "Anyway. Good for you. Both of you."

You're about to respond when his race engineer calls him over.

"Duty calls," he says, already backing away. "But hey, tell Jacob he better treat my future wife right. Even if she's... not actually my future wife anymore."

He tries to wink, but it looks more like a flinch. Before you can say anything else, he's gone, leaving you standing alone in the paddock with an inexplicable heaviness in your chest.

But you immediately brush it off. Because at the end of the day, he's just Lando.

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

liked by carmenmmundt, lilymhe and 276,504 others

yn.russell making it official 🤍 @/jacob___

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username1 OH?

username2 YALL HE WORKS FOR MCLAREN ??

username3 what happened to lando ?? the marriage proposal??

georgerussell63 About time you stopped sneaking around 🙄

↳ yn.russell shut up old man

↳ carlossainz55 Protective brother mode activated

carmenmmundt You guys look so cute! ❤️

↳ yn.russell love you xxx

alex_albon Well this is going to be interesting 👀

↳ landonorris mate.

↳ alex_albon what? I said nothing

username4 But what about Lando?? 😭 They were literally perfect together

usernsme5 nooo my ship is sinking

username6 the way lando looks at her tho…

jacob___❤️

↳ yn.russell 🤍

landonorris i guess i need to find a new future wife then 🤷‍♂️ applications open x

↳ danielricciardo i volunteer as tribute mate

↳ landonorris sorry mate you're not george's sister

↳ carlossainz55 You okay there buddy?

↳ yn.russell don't worry, you'll always be my favorite husband-that-never-was x

↳ landonorris 💔

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

yn.russell has added to their stories

landonorris has replied to your story

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

The Singapore night air is thick with humidity and celebration. The club's bass thrums through your bones as you watch Lando being congratulated for what feels like the hundredth time. He's practically glowing, champagne-drunk and victory-high, but something seems off about his smile.

"Babe, want another drink?" Jacob's voice pulls your attention back. His hand is possessively placed on your lower back, and you notice Lando's eyes flicker to it before he quickly looks away.

Across the VIP section, Alex nudges Charles, nodding towards where Lando is now aggressively stabbing at his ice with a straw.

"Subtle, mate," Alex smirks, sliding into the booth beside Lando. "Very subtle."

"Don't know what you're talking about," Lando mutters, but his eyes betray him, darting back to where Jacob is now whispering something in your ear.

"Ah, l'amour," Charles sighs dramatically. "It is painful, no?"

"Nothing's painful," Lando protests, straightening up. "I just won a Grand Prix, in case you forgot."

"And yet you look like someone stole your puppy," Alex points out.

"Or your future wife," Charles adds with a knowing look.

"She was never actually going to be my future wife," Lando says, but his voice lacks conviction. "It was just jokes. Always has been. She's George's sister, for fuck's sake."

"Right," Alex drawls. "So you wouldn't mind if I told you they're probably going to move in together soon?"

Lando chokes on his drink. "They're what?"

"He's joking," Charles quickly intervenes, shooting Alex a look. "But your reaction..."

"Means nothing," Lando insists, but his knuckles are white around his glass. "I just... I don't want her to rush into anything. As a friend. A protective friend. Who happens to be her brother's mate. And her future husband. But like, as a joke. Obviously."

"Obviously," Alex repeats dryly.

Suddenly, Charles straightens up. "Where did they go?"

The spot where you and Jacob were standing is empty. Lando's eyes scan the crowd, something uneasy settling in his stomach.

"Probably just getting more drinks," he says, but he's already standing up.

"Lando..." Alex starts.

"I just need some air," Lando cuts him off, making his way through the crowd.

The corridor leading to the outdoor area is quieter, the music muffled. That's when he hears raised voices.

"You're being ridiculous," Jacob's voice is sharp. "I was just talking to her."

"With your hand on her waist?" Your voice sounds tired. "While I was right there?"

"Oh, so I can't even network now? That's literally my job, YN. But I wouldn't expect you to understand that, since you're only here because of your brother."

Lando's feet move before his brain catches up.

"Everything alright out here?" His voice is deliberately light, but there's steel underneath.

"Fine," Jacob snaps. "Just having a private conversation with my girlfriend."

"Doesn't sound very private," Lando steps closer to you instinctively. "Or very pleasant."

"This doesn't concern you, Norris."

"See, that's where you're wrong, mate," Lando's usual playful demeanor is gone. "YN's wellbeing always concerns me. Future wife contract, remember? Legally binding and all that."

"We're still doing that joke?" Jacob scoffs. "Bit pathetic, don't you think?"

"Not as pathetic as hitting on sponsors' daughters while your girlfriend watches," Lando retorts, then softer, to you: "You okay, darling?"

The familiar pet name makes your chest tight. "I'm fine, Lando."

"Great, she's fine," Jacob moves to grab your arm. "Let's go."

"Touch her like that again," Lando's voice is deadly quiet, "and you'll be looking for a new marketing job. Might want to learn how the coffee machine works first though."

Jacob looks between you and Lando, jaw clenched. "Whatever. This is bullshit anyway. Call me when you're done playing happy families with your brother's friend."

He storms off, leaving you and Lando in charged silence.

"So," Lando finally says, attempting his usual lightness, "does this mean I can keep the dog name Fernando?"

You let out a watery laugh, and without thinking, he pulls you into a hug. You fit against him like you always have, his cologne familiar and comforting.

"My darling," he murmurs into your hair, then catches himself. "I mean... sorry. Probably shouldn't call you that anymore."

You pull back slightly to look at him. "You've been calling me that since we were teenagers."

"Yeah, well," he gives you a half-smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes, "things change, don't they?"

The way he's looking at you makes your heart stutter. Has he always looked at you like that?

"Is he always like this?" Lando asks quietly, still holding you close. His usual playful tone is gone, replaced by something more serious than you're used to hearing from him.

"No, no," you shake your head quickly. Maybe too quickly, because Lando's brow furrows as he studies your face. "It's not— he's not usually... it was just a misunderstanding."

He's silent for a moment, his hands fidgeting like they always do when he's worried about something. "You'd tell me though, right? If he ever... if he's not good to you? Or tell George at least?"

"Of course," you try to smile reassuringly. "But really, today was just a bad night. Too much pressure, too much champagne..."

"YN," he cuts in, and the way he says your name instead of one of his usual pet names makes you look up at him. His eyes are intense, concerned. "Promise me."

"I promise," you say softly. "You're a great friend, Lando."

Something flickers across his face – so quick you almost miss it – before his signature grin returns, though it doesn't quite reach his eyes.

"Friend?" he scoffs, but his voice sounds slightly strained. "Future husband, remember? Can't have my darling dealing with drama alone. Bad for our future marriage prospects."

You laugh, and he joins in, but there's something heavy hanging in the air between you. Before either of you can say anything else, Alex's voice carries from the doorway.

"Found them! Everything okay out here?"

"Never better," Lando announces, stepping back and throwing an arm around your shoulders with practiced ease. But you notice how his smile doesn't quite match the one in all those podium photos from earlier. "Just reminding the future Mrs. Norris about our very legitimate marriage contract. Very binding. Legally waterproof and everything."

He's doing that thing he does when he's uncomfortable – talking too fast, jokes tumbling out one after another. But his hand squeezes your shoulder gently before he lets go, and you catch him glancing back at you as he bounces toward the club entrance, his "Let's celebrate my amazing win, shall we?" almost drowning out the sound of your heart beating too fast.

Alex watches the exchange with knowing eyes but mercifully says nothing, just offers his arm to escort you back inside.

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

texts between george and yn

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

liked by landonorris, georgerussell63 and 287,540 others

yn.russell british boy steps foot in mexico city and instantly thinks he's a local... who's gonna tell him

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username1 LANDO X LITTLE RUSSELL IS SO BACKKK

username2 he looks so cuute

username3 i know her bf is not going to like this

alex_albon he can't even keep tequila shots down. such a fake

↳ landonorris want to test that theory?

↳ charles_leclerc Poor little Lando Norris

username4 HELP SHES SO IN LOVE WITH HIM 😭

jacob___ 👀

↳ username1 i know he's JEALOUS

username5 the way yn's feed is like 60% lando

username6 MY PARENTS

landonorris why is my future wife so mean to me

↳ yn.russell LANDO

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

Later that afternoon, you're sitting with Carmen in the Mercedes hospitality when George joins you, stealing a bite of your sandwich.

"Get your own food," you swat his hand away.

"Sharing is caring, little sis," he grins, then notices your expression. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong," you say automatically, but Carmen raises an eyebrow.

"She's overthinking," Carmen supplies helpfully. "About Jacob."

"I'm not overthinking," you protest. "I'm just... thinking. Normal amounts of thinking."

"About?" George prompts.

You fidget with your paddock pass. "He wants me to meet his parents. After Abu Dhabi. Says it's time we got more serious."

George's expression shifts slightly. "And you want that?"

"I mean... yeah? I think so. It makes sense, right? We've been together for a few months now, things are good..."

"Are they?" Carmen asks gently.

"Of course they are," you say, but your voice lacks conviction. "The Singapore thing was just a one-off. He apologized. He's been really sweet since then."

"Sweet enough to make up for being a dick?" George mutters.

"George."

"Sorry, sorry," he holds up his hands. "Just... you don't sound very excited about meeting his parents."

"I am excited," you insist. "It's just... a big step."

"Not as big as naming your future dog Fernando," Carmen says under her breath.

You shoot her a warning look. "Can we not?"

"Not what?" George asks.

"Nothing," you say quickly. "Just... Carmen thinks I'm not fully committed because..."

"Because you still light up every time Lando calls you 'darling'?" Carmen finishes.

"That's not— he calls everyone darling."

"No, he doesn't," George and Carmen say in unison.

"I hate you both," you groan. "Look, Lando and I are friends. That's all we've ever been. The whole future wife thing is just our running joke."

"Sure," Carmen nods. "That's why he looks like someone kicked his puppy every time Jacob touches you."

"He does not—" you start, but stop when you catch sight of Lando walking past. He gives you a small wave and his signature grin, but something about it seems off.

"Doesn't what?" George prompts.

"Nothing," you shake your head. "I should go. Jacob's waiting for me."

As you leave, you hear Carmen say to George, "They're both idiots, aren't they?"

"Complete idiots," George agrees. "But at least they're consistent about it."

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

liked by landonorris, carmenmmundt and 298,605 others

yn.russell happy birthday to my favorite “future husband” 🎂 from stealing your caps in karting to stealing your FIFA records (still undefeated btw), you've somehow become one of my favorite people in this weird little world of ours. here's to many more years of terrible jokes, impromptu dance parties in the garage, and you pretending to let me win at everything (we both know I'm just better 😌). love you loads landolorian 🤍

ps: fernando the nonexistent dog says happy birthday to his future dad x

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username1 THIS IS TOO CUTE

username2 YOUR HONOR IM CRYING

landonorris still waiting for that marriage certificate darling 💍 also you definitely cheated at FIFA last time

↳ yn.russell sounds like someone's a sore loser

↳ landonorris sounds like someone's avoiding the marriage topic

↳ georgerussell63 get a room you two

↳ landonorris working on it mate

↳ username1 LANDO WTF

↳ username2 HE HAS NO SHAME

mclaren Happy Birthday @/landonorris! @/yn.russell when's the wedding?

↳ landonorris asking the real questions admin

↳ oscarpiastri I'll officiate

↳ landonorris DEAL

↳ yn.russell STOP IT

jacob___ 🙄

↳ landonorris problem mate?

↳ yn.russell boys.

↳ username3 THE TENSION

username4 why aren't they together yet??

username5 my heart can't take this anymore just date already

liked by username1, username2 and 3,976 others

f1.gossip Lando Norris and YN Russell spotted getting cozy at his birthday celebration last night. Swipe for more 👀

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username1 "just friends" my ass

username2 no because why does he look at her like she hung the stars

username3 wait where's jacob? 👀

↳ username1 apparently he left early...

↳ username2 he posted from a different party later that night

username4 george watching his best friend and his sister like 🧍‍♂️

↳ username1 he's been watching this slow burn for years poor man

username5 jacob watching these photos like 👁👄👁

username6 the way lando calls her darling more than her actual boyfriend does

username7 who's gonna tell jacob his girlfriend has better chemistry with lando in these photos than their entire instagram feed

username8 the "future wife" jokes don't seem so jokey anymore huh

username9 okay but can we talk about how she literally glows when she's around him?

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

The afternoon sun filters through your apartment windows as you put the finishing touches on your makeup. You're going out to dinner with Jacob - another fancy restaurant, another chance for him to network while you smile politely beside him.

A knock at your door makes you pause. Opening it reveals Lando, holding a bag of takeaway and what appears to be your favorite ice cream.

"Oh," he says, taking in your dress and heels. "You're going out."

"Yeah," you adjust your earring, but can't help smiling at the familiar sight of him with food. "With Jacob. Remember?"

"Right," his smile dims slightly. "The boyfriend. Must've slipped my mind." He holds up the bags. "I brought provisions for our traditional post-race debrief. You know, where you tell me how amazing I was and I pretend to be humble about it?"

You laugh despite yourself. "Since when are you ever humble?"

"I'm incredibly humble. The most humble. No one's more humble than me," he grins, then peers around you into the apartment. "But seriously, can't you reschedule? I got your favorite ice cream. Mint chocolate chip, because I'm the best future husband ever."

"Still going with that, are we?" you ask, turning back to the mirror to check your lipstick.

"Always, darling," he follows you in, setting the food down and flopping onto your couch like he owns it. "It's legally binding, remember? Can't disappoint my mum now."

"I can't tonight," you say, checking your phone. "Jacob said he has something important to tell me."

"The one who made you cry?" Lando's voice loses some of its playfulness.

"That was one time," you defend, though without heat. "And he apologized. He actually told me he loves me last week. Says he wants us to be serious."

Lando sits up straighter, his usual energetic demeanor momentarily stilled. "And do you? Love him?"

"You don't know anything about my relationship, Lando," you say, but it comes out softer than intended.

"I know you," he counters, standing up and moving to lean against the wall near your mirror. "I know you scrunch your nose when you're trying not to laugh at bad jokes. I know you secretly love those terrible reality shows but pretend you're 'just watching them ironically.' I know you stress-eat ice cream when George has a bad race."

"That's different," you say, but you're fighting a smile.

"Is it?" he challenges, but his tone is gentle. "Look, I just... I want you to be happy. Even if it means dealing with boring Jacob who still can't work the coffee machine."

"He figured it out last week, actually," you laugh.

"Finally! Only took him what, six months?" Lando grins, then sobers slightly. "But seriously, if he makes you happy..."

"He does," you say, though something in your chest tightens. "Most of the time."

"Most of the time?" Lando raises an eyebrow. "That's not exactly a ringing endorsement, darling."

"Nobody's perfect."

"I am," he says immediately, making you laugh. "What? I'm just saying, our future children would have excellent genes. Plus, I make a mean cup of coffee."

Your phone buzzes - a text from Jacob asking where you are.

"I have to go," you say, grabbing your purse. "Lock up when you leave?"

"Fine," he sighs dramatically. "Abandon your future husband with melting ice cream. But just know, Fernando the dog is very disappointed in you."

"Still haven't given up on that name, huh?"

"Never," he grins, but something flickers in his eyes. "Save me some time this weekend? For proper FIFA revenge?"

"You mean so I can beat you again?"

"Excuse you, I let you win," he protests, following you to the door. "It's part of my long-term strategy."

"Which is?"

"Can't have my future wife thinking I'm bad at something, can I?" he winks. "Even though we both know I'm actually terrible at FIFA."

You shake your head, laughing. "Goodbye, Lando."

"Wait," he calls as you start down the hall. "Just... be happy, yeah? Even if it's with someone who took six months to learn how to make coffee."

"I am happy," you say, but even to your own ears, it sounds more like a question than a statement.

"If you say so, darling," he says quietly. "But just remember, the Fernando name reservation is still valid. You know, in case the coffee-challenged boyfriend doesn't work out."

You roll your eyes but can't help smiling as you walk away, trying to ignore the way your heart seems to be arguing with your head about exactly what - or who - makes you happiest. Behind you, you can hear him humming what sounds suspiciously like the wedding march, and you have to bite your lip to keep from laughing.

Because at the end of the day, he's still Lando. Your Lando. Even if you're not quite ready to admit what that really means.

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liked by carmenmmundt, lilymhe and 276,498 others

yn.russell last dinner date before heading back to the circus 🏎️ @/jacob___

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username1 ewww

username2 cute couple tbh

jacob___ miss you already x

↳ yn.russell ❤️

landonorris see you in las vegas darling x

↳ jacob___ can you not?

↳ landonorris sorry mate, contractual future wife obligations

↳ yn_russell boys. please.

↳ georgerussell63 🍿

↳ carlossainz55 Share some with me

↳ username1 LORD

↳ username2 THIS IS SO MESSYYYYY

username3 THIS COMMENT SECTION HAS ME IN TEARSSSS

username4 i feel like shit is about to hit the fan reaaaally soon

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

"I just don't understand why you have to be there for every single race," Jacob's voice carries down the paddock corridor. "It's not like you're actually part of the team."

You're standing outside the McLaren hospitality, what started as a casual conversation having turned into yet another argument. "My brother races in F1, and Lando's one of my closest friends. Of course I'm going to be here."

"Right, Lando," Jacob scoffs. "Because God forbid you miss one of his races. Wouldn't want to disappoint your 'future husband.'"

"Don't do that," you say tiredly. "You know it's just a joke."

"Is it? Because from where I'm standing, it looks like you'd rather spend time with him than support your actual boyfriend's career."

"Your career? I've been to every single marketing event you've asked me to attend. I've smiled and networked and played the perfect girlfriend."

"Perfect?" He laughs humorlessly. "You barely talk to any of the sponsors. You're too busy hanging out in the Mercedes garage or watching Lando's practice sessions."

"That's not fair—"

"You know what's not fair? Having a girlfriend who's more invested in other people's careers than mine."

"I didn't realize I was supposed to give up my entire life just because we're dating."

"Your entire life?" His voice rises. "You mean hanging around the paddock like some glorified fan?"

You step back like he's slapped you. "Is that what you think I am?"

"I think," he says coldly, "that you need to figure out what's more important - playing happy families with your brother's friends or having a real relationship with someone who's actually going somewhere in life."

"Hey!" A sharp voice cuts through the tension. George is standing there, face thunderous. "What the hell is going on here?"

"Just having a private conversation with my girlfriend," Jacob says stiffly.

"Doesn't sound very private to me," George steps closer, positioning himself slightly in front of you. "Or very respectful."

"George, it's fine," you start, but he cuts you off.

"No, it's not fine," he says, not taking his eyes off Jacob. "No one talks to my sister like that."

Jacob holds up his hands. "Look, this is between me and YN."

"Not anymore it's not," George's voice is dangerously calm. "I think you should leave."

For a moment, it looks like Jacob might argue, but something in George's expression makes him think better of it. "Whatever. Call me when you're ready to be a proper girlfriend."

As he walks away, George turns to you, his anger melting into concern. "You okay?"

"I'm fine," you say automatically, but your voice wavers.

"Come on," he wraps an arm around your shoulders, leading you toward his driver room. "Let's talk."

Once inside, you sink onto the couch while George grabs two water bottles. "How long has he been talking to you like that?"

"It's not... it's not usually that bad," you say, fidgeting with the bottle label. "He's just stressed about work."

"That's not an excuse," George sits beside you. "Has he said things like this before? About you being just a fan?"

You stay quiet, which is answer enough.

"YN," George's voice softens. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because it's embarrassing," you admit quietly. "He's right, isn't he? I am just hanging around because of you."

"Stop," George says firmly. "You've been part of this world since we were kids. You understand racing better than half the people in the paddock. Hell, you probably know more about tire strategies than some of the engineers."

You manage a small laugh. "Only because you never shut up about them."

"Exactly," he grins, then turns serious again. "Look, being here isn't just about me. It's your life too. You've built relationships with everyone here. Carmen loves you, Alex considers you a little sister, and Lando..."

"Don't," you cut him off. "Please don't bring Lando into this."

George studies you for a moment. "Why not? He's your best friend."

"Because..." you trail off, not sure how to explain the complicated mix of emotions that surface whenever Lando's name comes up lately.

"Because Jacob's jealous of him?" George suggests gently.

"He's not... it's not like that."

"Isn't it?" George raises an eyebrow. "Because from where I'm sitting, it looks like your boyfriend has a problem with how close you are to someone who's been in your life a lot longer than he has."

"Lando and I are just friends," you say, but the words feel hollow.

"Are you?" George asks softly. "Because friends don't look at each other the way you two do. Friends don't have elaborate future plans including dogs named Fernando. Friends don't get that look in their eyes when the other person is dating someone else."

"George..."

"I'm just saying," he continues, "maybe Jacob isn't entirely wrong to be jealous. Just... wrong about everything else."

You're quiet for a moment, processing. "I don't know what to do."

"Yes, you do," George says simply. "You just need to be honest with yourself about what - or who - actually makes you happy."

"It's not that simple."

"Why not?" He challenges. "Because from what I just heard, Jacob doesn't make you happy. He makes you feel small. And my little sister," he squeezes your shoulder, "deserves someone who makes her feel like she could take on the world."

"Someone like Lando?" You ask quietly.

"I didn't say that," George grins. "But now that you mention it..."

You shove him playfully. "Shut up."

"Make me," he laughs, then sobers. "Seriously though, YN. You deserve better than someone who makes you question your place here. This is your home too."

You lean your head on his shoulder. "When did you get so wise?"

"I've always been wise. I'm the older sibling, remember?"

"By like two years!"

"Still counts," he says smugly, then adds more seriously, "Just... promise me you'll think about what I said? About being honest with yourself?"

"I promise," you say softly, even as your mind drifts to a certain curly-haired driver who's probably wondering where you are for your traditional pre-race FIFA tournament.

"Good," George stands up. "Now, want to go watch Lando absolutely butcher his quali prep? I heard he's still convinced he can take turn 3 flat out."

You laugh, letting him pull you up. "Some things never change, do they?"

"Nope," George agrees, but there's something knowing in his smile. "And some things are just waiting for you to realize they've been there all along."

As you walk toward the McLaren garage, you can't help but think about how some of the best things in life start as jokes - like a fourteen-year-old boy declaring you'll have papaya orange wedding colors, or a nickname that feels more like home than any other word in the world.

Maybe it's time to stop pretending it's all just a joke.

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liked by georgerussell63, carmenmmundt and 301,988 others

yn.russell my big brother just won in VEGAS!!! 🏆✨ from watching you race karts in the rain to watching you stand on top of the podium under those lights... i've never been prouder to be a russell. you deserve this more than anyone georgie. also thanks for letting me steal your champagne and ruin your hair before the photos 😘

ps: mum's crying, dad's crying, i'm crying, even fernando the dog is crying and he's not real x

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username1 I LOVE THEM SMMMM

username2 THIS IS MY FAMILY

georgerussell63 love you little sis ❤️ (but i was definitely the cuter kid)

↳ yn_russell keep telling yourself that x

↳ landonorris can confirm yn was the cuter kid

↳ georgerussell63 no one asked you lando

↳ landonorris just supporting my future wife mate

↳ yn.russell boys please this is george's moment

username2 THE WAY SHE RAN TO HIM IN PARC FERME 😭

username3 sibling goals fr

username4 ok but can we talk about how lando waited to celebrate with george until after yn had her moment with him 🥺

↳ username1 future brother in law behavior

username5 wait why isn't jacob in any of these photos? Wasn't he there?

carmenmmundt so proud of you both ❤️

↳ landonorris *all three of us

↳ carmenmmundt ?

↳ landonorris future wife = future family

↳ yn.russell this is GEORGE'S post omg

↳ landonorris sorry darling carry on x

charles_leclerc the russell genes are strong

↳ landonorris hopefully our kids get her genes

↳ georgerussell63 LANDO.

↳ yn.russell i swear to god

↳ landonorris what? just planning ahead 😌

username6 THIS COMMENT SECTION IS KILLING ME

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yn.russell has added to their stories

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The Abu Dhabi night is alive with celebration, the McLaren garage covered in papaya and champagne. But you're hidden away in one of the quiet corridors behind hospitality, mascara smudged, trying to muffle your sobs.

"There you are, darling! We've been looking everywhere for—" Lando's voice cuts off abruptly when he sees you. "YN?"

You quickly try to wipe your tears, but it's too late. His championship-winning smile vanishes instantly as he drops down beside you.

"Hey, hey, what's wrong?" His voice is soft, concerned. When you don't answer, he gently takes your hands away from your face. "Talk to me."

"It's stupid," you manage to say. "You should be celebrating. You just won the constructors'."

"Pretty sure the champagne will still be there in ten minutes," he says, thumb brushing away a tear from your cheek. "What happened?"

You take a shaky breath. "Jacob... he..." Your voice breaks.

Lando's expression hardens. "What did he do?"

"He broke up with me," you let out a bitter laugh. "Apparently now that he's secured a position at Mercedes for next season, he doesn't need the Russell connection anymore."

"He what?" Lando's voice is dangerously quiet.

"Turns out I was just... convenient. A way to get closer to Toto. To Mercedes." Your voice cracks again. "God, I feel so stupid."

"You're not stupid," Lando says fiercely. "He's the stupid one. He's worse than stupid, he's a complete—"

"I really thought..." you cut him off, fresh tears falling. "I actually thought he cared about me."

Without hesitation, Lando pulls you into his arms. You bury your face in his race suit, still damp with champagne, and let yourself break.

"I've got you," he murmurs into your hair. "I've got you, darling."

You stay like that for a while, his hands running soothingly up and down your back as you cry. The distant sounds of celebration feel like they're from another world.

"Want me to crash his car?" Lando finally asks, making you let out a watery laugh. "I could do it. Make it look like an accident. I am a professional driver, after all."

"Lando..."

"Or we could put laxatives in his coffee. Though he'd probably notice, since he still can't make a proper cup himself."

Despite everything, you find yourself smiling slightly.

"There's my girl," he says softly, then catches himself. "I mean... sorry. Probably shouldn't..."

"It's okay," you whisper. "I've always been your girl. Even if it was just as a joke."

Something shifts in his expression. "YN..."

"Don't," you pull back slightly. "Please. I can't... I can't lose you too. Not tonight."

He studies your face for a long moment, then nods, pulling you back against his chest. "You'll never lose me. Future husband contract, remember? Legally binding. Can't get rid of me that easily."

You close your eyes, breathing in his familiar scent. "Promise?"

"Promise," he kisses the top of your head. "Besides, Fernando still needs both his parents."

This gets a real laugh out of you. "We don't actually have a dog, Lando."

"Yet," he corrects. "We don't have a dog yet. But when we do—"

"His name will be Fernando," you finish with him, and for a moment, everything feels okay again.

"Want me to get George?" he asks after a while.

You shake your head. "Not yet. Can we just... stay here for a bit?"

"As long as you need," he says, and you can hear his heart beating steadily under your ear. "I'm not going anywhere."

In the distance, someone calls his name.

"Go," you start to pull away. "They need their champion."

"They can wait," he says firmly, pulling you back. "You need me more."

And maybe it's the way he says it, or the gentle kiss he presses to your temple, or how his arms feel like the safest place in the world, but suddenly you realize what everyone's been trying to tell you all along.

This was never just a joke to him.

And maybe, just maybe, it was never really a joke to you either.

But that's a revelation for another night, when your heart isn't quite so broken and his race suit isn't covered in your tears. For now, you let yourself be held by your best friend, your future husband, your Lando, as the Abu Dhabi night carries on without you.

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liked by landonorris, georgerussell63 and 288,760 others

yn.russell back to my favorite job: professional thirdwheel 🏖️ (at least they feed me occasionally) @/georgerussell63 @/carmenmmundt

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username1 MY PARENTS

username2 wait... where's jacob? 👀

↳ username1 he unfollowed her last week 👀

↳ username3 tea incoming

georgerussell63 You love us

↳ yn.russell debatable

↳ carmenmmund We literally paid for your dinner

↳ yn.russell okay fine you're alright

landonorris need a fourth wheel? 👀

↳ yn.russell ...

↳ landonorris i'll bring snacks

username4 THE WAY LANDO COMMENTED SO FAST

username5 LANDO THIS IS YOUR CHANCE

username6 single little russell era is coming

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

The winter sun is setting early, casting long shadows across your apartment. It's been a month days since Abu Dhabi, a months since Jacob revealed his true colors, and you're curled up on your couch in your comfiest sweats, surrounded by empty ice cream containers.

George and Carmen tried to cheer you up, making you tag along on their vacation, but now that you were back home, the sulking feeling inevitably came back too.

A familiar pattern of knocks at your door makes you groan. "Go away, Lando."

"Not a chance, darling," his voice calls back. "I come bearing provisions!"

"I don't need provisions," you call out, but you're already getting up to open the door. "I need to wallow in peace."

You open the door to find Lando, arms full of bags, wearing a ridiculously oversized hoodie that you're pretty sure belongs to George.

"Wallowing is officially cancelled," he announces, breezing past you into the apartment. "We're having a proper heartbreak recovery session."

"We are?"

"Absolutely," he starts unpacking the bags. "I've got all the essentials. More ice cream - mint chocolate chip, obviously. Every terrible rom-com Netflix has to offer. Popcorn. Those weird crisps you like that no one else understands. And..." he pulls out a bottle with flourish, "your favorite wine."

"Lando..."

"No arguments," he says firmly, but gently. "I'm not leaving you alone to cry over that coffee-challenged idiot."

"I wasn't crying," you protest weakly.

He raises an eyebrow at your clearly tear-stained face. "Right. And I'm not the most talented driver on the grid."

This actually makes you laugh. "Your modesty never fails to amaze me."

"I know, I know, I'm incredible," he grins, already making himself at home on your couch. "Now come here. We're starting with The Notebook because I know it's your guilty pleasure, even though you pretend to hate it."

"I do hate it," you say, but you're already curling up next to him.

"Sure you do, darling," he throws a blanket over both of you. "Just like you hate reality TV and actually love Jacob's boring marketing presentations."

You wince slightly at Jacob's name, and Lando immediately softens.

"Sorry," he says quietly. "No more mentions of He Who Shall Not Be Named. Though I still think we should put glitter in his car ventilation system."

"George already offered to have him banned from the paddock," you smile slightly.

"Good man, your brother," Lando nods approvingly. "Though my revenge plans are much more creative. I was thinking we could reprogram his laptop to only play 'Baby Shark' when he opens PowerPoint..."

You can't help but laugh. "You're ridiculous."

"Made you smile though, didn't I?" he says softly, and something in his voice makes you look up at him.

"You always do," you admit quietly.

He holds your gaze for a moment before clearing his throat. "Right, well, that's what future husbands are for, isn't it? Can't have my darling being sad. Bad for our wedding photos."

"Still going with that, are we?"

"Always," he says, and despite his light tone, there's something earnest in his eyes. "Someone's got to look after you properly."

"I can look after myself," you point out.

"Oh, I know," he grins. "But it's more fun together, isn't it? Plus, who else is going to appreciate your terrible taste in movies?"

"My taste is not terrible!"

"Darling, you genuinely enjoyed that film about the talking cats."

"It was artistic!"

"It was horrifying," he laughs, pulling you closer. "But I watched it three times with you anyway."

"Because you're a good friend," you say softly.

Something flickers across his face. "Yeah," he says after a moment. "The best friend you'll ever have. Even if you have questionable taste in everything except future husbands."

You roll your eyes but can't help smiling. "Speaking of questionable taste, weren't we supposed to be watching The Notebook?"

"Oh right!" he brightens, grabbing the remote. "Time to pretend you're not going to cry at the end."

"I never cry at the end."

"Darling, you've cried every single time we've watched it."

"Have not!"

"Have too! Remember last time? You got tears all over my favorite hoodie."

"That was one time!"

"One time this month, maybe," he grins, then softens. "It's okay though. My hoodies are always available for your tears. Even if they're about stupid coffee-challenged marketing guys who don't deserve them."

You lean your head on his shoulder. "Thank you, Lando."

"For what?"

"For being you. For being here. For..." you gesture at all the supplies he brought. "For everything."

He's quiet for a moment, then presses a kiss to the top of your head. "Always, darling. In sickness and in health, remember?"

"We're not actually married, Lando."

"Yet," he corrects, but there's something in his voice that makes your heart skip. "We're not actually married yet."

The movie starts playing, but you're more aware of his steady breathing, of how perfectly you fit against his side, of how safe you feel in this moment. And maybe it's too soon, maybe your heart is still too raw, but you can't help but think that maybe, just maybe, the right person has been here all along.

But that's a thought for another day. For now, you let yourself be comforted by your best friend, your constant, your Lando, as he quotes along with the movie and keeps you supplied with ice cream and terrible jokes until you're laughing more than you're crying.

And if you do end up crying at the end of The Notebook, well, his hoodie is already there to catch your tears.

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

liked by landonorris, carmenmmundt and 291,483 others

yn.russell FIRST RACE OF THE SEASON. WHAT A RIDE !!!! lando winning and georgie on podium. ALEX P5 !!!! all of my boys killing it 🥺 so happy to be back, i missed this so much

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username1 LITTLE RUSSELL BIGGEST SUPPORTER

username2 SHE WAS SO HAPPY FOR LANDO OMFG

username3 still gutted for the missed mclaren 1-2 but GEORGE P3!!

carmenmmundt You almost broke my hand with all the squeezing !! Missed you so happy my girl 🤍

↳ username1 AHH LITTLE RUSSELL IS HEALING

username4 the way she JUMPED into lando's arms

ciscanorris My future daughter in law! It was so good to see you

↳ username1 AHH MAMA NORRIS CLAIMING HER

landonorris THAT WAS FOR YOU MY DARLINGGG

↳ yourinstagram 🥺

↳ username2 AHH SHE DIDN'T CORRECT HIM

georgerussell63 Love you sis, even tho you hugged Lando first

↳ yn.russell he won okay

↳ landonorris and i'm her future husband

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

The Miami night air is warm and sweet, carrying the distant sounds of celebration from the post race party below. You're leaning against the balcony railing, watching the lights of the circuit sparkle in the distance, when familiar footsteps approach.

"There's my darling," Lando's voice is soft as he joins you. "Hiding from your adoring public?"

You smile, not looking away from the view. "Just needed some air."

The past few months flash through your mind - Lando showing up at your door with takeaway after particularly hard days, marathon gaming sessions that somehow always ended with you falling asleep on his shoulder, countless movie nights where he'd quote every line just to make you laugh. He never let you wallow, never let you retreat into sadness. Whether it was surprising you with your favorite coffee in the morning or sending you ridiculous memes at 3 AM, he was constantly there, slowly piecing your heart back together without you even realizing it.

"Penny for your thoughts?" he asks, bumping your shoulder gently with his.

"Just thinking about everything that's changed since last season."

He hums in agreement. "Good changes though, right?"

You finally turn to look at him, really look at him. His curls slightly messy from running his hands through them - a nervous habit you've known since you were teenagers. But there's something different in the way he's looking at you now, something that makes your heart skip.

"Yeah," you say softly. "Good changes."

He takes a step closer, and suddenly the air feels charged with possibility. "You know, I've been thinking..."

"Dangerous hobby," you tease, falling into your familiar pattern.

"Very dangerous," he agrees, but his voice is serious. "Been thinking about how sometimes the best things in life start as jokes."

Your breath catches. "Lando..."

"Like when a fourteen-year-old boy tells this pretty girl she's going to be his future wife," he continues, taking another step closer. "And he keeps saying it for years, making it this big running joke, because it's easier than admitting that maybe, just maybe, it was never really a joke at all."

"What are you saying?" you whisper, though your heart already knows the answer.

He reaches up, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear, his hand lingering on your cheek. "I'm saying that I've been in love with you since we were kids. I'm saying that every time I called you darling, every time I talked about our future dog Fernando, every time I claimed the future husband title - I meant it. All of it."

"Lando..." your voice wavers.

"I know it's only been a few months since... everything," he says quickly. "And if you're not ready, if you don't feel the same way, we can pretend this never happened. We can go back to just joking around. But I needed you to know that for me, it was never just a joke. You were never just a joke."

You stare at him, this boy who's been your constant, your safe place, your home for so long. And suddenly everything clicks into place.

"I'm going to kiss you now," he says softly, giving you time to pull away if you want to.

You don't.

His lips meet yours, gentle at first, like he's afraid you might break. But when your hands slide into his curls, pulling him closer, the kiss deepens into something that feels like coming home and falling free all at once.

When you finally break apart, he rests his forehead against yours. "So," he says, slightly breathless, "about that legally binding marriage contract..."

You laugh, the sound full of joy. "Still going with that, are we?"

"Always," he grins, pressing another quick kiss to your lips. "Though now I'm thinking maybe we should make it official. You know, for Fernando's sake."

"We still don't have a dog, Lando."

"Yet," he corrects, pulling you closer. "We don't have a dog yet. But we will. Right after the wedding. Which will definitely have papaya orange colors because I called dibs when we were fourteen and—"

You cut him off with another kiss, feeling him smile against your lips.

"FINALLY!"

You break apart to find George standing in the doorway, grinning like he just won the championship.

"Ever heard of knocking?" Lando grumbles, but he doesn't let go of you.

"On a balcony door?" George raises an eyebrow. "Besides, I've been watching you two dance around each other for months. Years, actually."

"Have not," you protest.

"Have too," both men say in unison.

"I hate you both," you mutter, but you're fighting a smile.

"No you don't," Lando says confidently. "You love me. You're going to marry me and we're going to have a dog named Fernando and—"

"Still with the dog name?" George groans.

"It's tradition!" Lando defends. "Tell him, darling, tell him how important traditions are."

You look between your brother and the boy - no, the man - who's been your everything for so long, and feel your heart might burst with happiness.

"Actually," you say slowly, "I was thinking maybe we could name the dog George."

"What?" both men exclaim.

You burst out laughing at their expressions. "Just kidding. Fernando it is."

"See?" Lando beams at George. "She agrees with me. Because she loves me. Because we're getting married. Because—"

"Because it was never really a joke?" you finish softly.

His expression softens as he looks at you. "Never."

"Right," George clears his throat. "I'm going to leave before this gets any more sickeningly sweet. But Lando?"

"Yeah?"

"Hurt my sister and they'll never find your body."

"Please," Lando scoffs, pulling you closer. "I've been planning our future since I was fourteen. I'm not about to mess it up now."

As George leaves, shaking his head but smiling, Lando turns back to you.

"So," he says, his eyes twinkling, "about those wedding colors..."

You silence him with another kiss, thinking about how sometimes the best love stories start as jokes, and how sometimes the person you're meant to be with has been there all along, calling you darling and planning your future with a dog named Fernando.

And maybe, just maybe, those papaya orange wedding colors don't sound so bad after all.

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liked by landonorris, georgerussell63 and 201,384 others

yn.russell turns out some jokes become reality 🧡 @/landonorris (yes, we're actually getting the dog. yes, his name will be fernando. no, this isn't a drill - the future wife position has officially been filled, i love you my lando)

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username1 SHUT UP SHUT UP SHUT UP IS THIS ACTUALLY HAPPENING??? 😭😭😭

username2 THE WAY I JUST SCREAMED IN THE MIDDLE OF STARBUCKS

username3 THE FUTURE WIFE JOKES WERE REAL ALL ALONG

georgerussell63 About bloody time 🙄 (but actually very happy for you both)

alex_albon the group chat can finally rest, no more "should I tell her?" messages from lando every 5 minutes

carmenmmundt The paddock's favorite love story

ciscanorris Finally! I've only been waiting for this announcement since they were teenagers 🥰

username4 the way this man has been calling her darling for YEARS and we all thought it was just banter 😭😭

username5 THE WAY I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS SINCE 2019

username6 ok but can we talk about how he's literally been manifesting this since they were TEENAGERS???

username7 this is actually the cutest thing ever like???? he's been planning their wedding since he was 14???? hello???

username8 the way george is probably somewhere being like "finally i don't have to pretend i don't see them flirting"

landonorris worth the wait, every single second❤️ love you darling x

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It's a lazy Sunday afternoon in late summer, and you're curled up on your couch with a book when you hear Lando's key in the door. You smile, not looking up - he's been coming and going from your place so much lately that it feels more like his home than his own apartment.

"Darling!" his voice calls out, sounding suspiciously excited. "Close your eyes!"

"Why?" you ask warily. "Last time you had a surprise, it didn't end well."

"Just trust me!"

You sigh fondly, closing your eyes. "Fine, but this better be good."

You hear him moving around, and then something warm and furry lands in your lap.

Your eyes fly open to find yourself face to face with the most adorable chocolate Labrador puppy you've ever seen. The puppy immediately starts licking your face while Lando watches, beaming with pure joy.

"Lando..." you breathe, already in love with the wiggling bundle of fur. "What did you do?"

"Well," he drops onto the couch beside you, reaching over to scratch the puppy's ears, "I was thinking about how we've been together for months now, and living together basically even though we pretend we don't, and how there's this one very important member of our family still missing..."

"You didn't," you whisper, even as the puppy settles contentedly in your lap.

"I did," he grins. "Meet Fernando. Finally."

You look between Lando and the puppy - Fernando - feeling your heart might burst. "You actually named him Fernando?"

"Of course I did! I've been planning this since I was fourteen, remember?" His eyes soften. "Plus, I made you a promise, didn't I?"

"We're not married yet," you point out, but you can't stop smiling.

"Yet," he emphasizes, leaning over to kiss your cheek. "But really, I thought... I mean, we practically live together anyway. Might as well make it official. You, me, and Fernando."

You look down at the puppy, who's now snoring softly in your lap, then back at Lando. "Are you asking me to move in with you? Properly?"

"Maybe," he fidgets slightly. "Unless you think it's too soon? I know we haven't been together that long, but it feels like we've been building towards this forever, you know? And I thought, with Fernando here now..."

You cut off his rambling with a kiss. "Yes."

"Yes?"

"Yes, I'll move in with you. Properly. All three of us."

His face lights up like you've just given him the best gift in the world. "Really?"

"Really," you laugh.

"You're ridiculous," you tell him fondly.

"You love it," he says confidently.

"I do," you admit softly. "I love you."

His expression melts into that soft look he reserves just for you. "I love you too, darling. Both of you," he adds as Fernando stirs and licks his hand.

Just then, your phone buzzes - a text from George.

"Oh no," you groan, reading it. "George is coming over."

"Perfect!" Lando brightens. "He can meet his nephew!"

"You did not just call our dog George's nephew."

"Of course I did! He's family now. Speaking of which..." he pulls out his phone, "my mum's been asking when we're bringing Fernando to visit."

Before you can respond, George's voice carries through the door. "Why is there puppy food in the hallway?"

Lando jumps up excitedly. "Ready to meet Uncle George, Fernando?"

The puppy perks up at his name, tail wagging as George opens the door.

"You didn't," George says, taking in the scene.

"We did!" Lando announces proudly. "Meet your nephew!"

"My... nephew?"

"Fernando Russell-Norris," Lando declares. "Well, technically just Norris for now, but that'll change once your sister finally agrees to marry me."

"Still waiting on that proposal, aren't you?" George smirks.

"All in good time," Lando winks at you. "Got to do it properly, haven't I?"

You watch George pretend not to be completely smitten with Fernando, while Lando chatters about all his plans for family weekends and teaching Fernando tricks. You can't help but think about how sometimes the best things in life start as jokes about future marriages and dogs named Fernando.

"Our little family," Lando says softly, pulling you close while Fernando attempts to climb into George's lap.

And as you lean into his side, watching your brother and your boyfriend argue about who gets to be Fernando's favorite uncle (while the puppy seems more interested in chewing George's shoelaces), you realize that this - this moment, this love, this little family - is better than any dream you could have had.

It's your reality. Your perfect, slightly chaotic, absolutely wonderful reality.