Chapter 13
I arrived at Monaco’s legendary circuit just before qualifying. The paddock was buzzing with teams and media, all circling Adrian as he paced by his car.
He was scanning the entrance anxiously. When he spotted me, relief flooded his face, bringing back that smile I hadn’t seen since Rain. He strode over quickly.
“You came.”
For a moment, the gentleness in his eyes made my heart stutter – it was pure Rain. But I stepped back, giving only a slight nod.
Adrian ignored my distance, taking my hand as he led me toward his garage. He frowned suddenly.
“Where’s your bracelet?”
“Lost it at the party,” I said evenly. “Must have slipped off somewhere.”
A shadow crossed his face at the mention of that night, but he recovered quickly. “Doesn’t matter. I’ll have an exact replica made.”
“Wait for me after the race,” he squeezed my hand. “I have a surprise for you.” He leaned close, his breath warm against my ear. “You’ll love it.”
Before I could pull away, his team whisked him off for final preparations.
I found a quiet spot in the stands, away from the VIP section. Adrian kept glancing back until he spotted me, only then focusing on his pre–race routine.
His natural talent was undeniable.
From the moment the lights went out, he dominated the track, leaving his rivals fighting for second place.
Even the defending champion couldn’t match his pace.
But I wouldn’t see the checkered flag.
My flight was leaving soon, and Milan was calling.
I took one last look at his racing suit, his number blurring as the car screamed past.
Kate was waiting outside with my bags.
The acceptance letter hadn’t arrived yet, but I had a million reasons to start my new life now.
Sometimes the best victories come from knowing when to walk away from the race.
15:42
