TWIN FLAME , Carlos Sainz Jr.

twenty-five

The first event on their list was the memorial, and Valentina found herself back in her hometown of Valencia for the first time in five years. As she approached the church, a flood of memories washed over her. It had been a decade since she had last set foot in this place.

The church stood tall and imposing, its ancient architecture bearing witness to countless ceremonies, celebrations, and sorrows. Valentina couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and a tinge of unease as she climbed the familiar stone steps that led to its entrance. Her footsteps echoed through the courtyard, each one a reminder of her past.

The memories came rushing back — the Sundays she had spent here as a child, the warmth of her grandparents' presence, and the echoes of hymns that filled the air. But those memories were overshadowed by the decision she had made fifteen years ago to distance herself from certain people and aspects of her life.

As Valentina entered the church, she couldn't help but glance around at the faces in the pews. It was a gathering of people she had chosen to cut ties with, people she had left behind when she went off to college ten years ago. The room was filled with distant relatives, family friends, and acquaintances who had played a part in her childhood.

Her maternal grandparents had moved into a retirement home long ago, and since then, Valentina had had little reason to return to this place. It was strange to be back now, amid the same wooden pews and stained-glass windows she had known as a child.

Carlos, standing by her side, sensed her mixed emotions. He offered her a reassuring smile and a gentle squeeze of her hand.

Alex and Nicholas had arrived early, choosing to sit discreetly behind, offering Valentina a warm smile as she walked past them to greet those gathered towards the front of the church. Valentina's heart felt heavy as she approached the people she had chosen to distance herself from over the past fifteen years.

She walked up to her grandmother, uncertain of what to say. Carlos, ever the supportive presence by her side, broke the silence. "I'm sorry for your loss, Mrs. Romero," he offered, his voice filled with compassion.

"Thank you, son," Mrs. Romero replied, her gaze shifting towards Valentina. Recognition flickered in her eyes. "Valentina, is that you, darling?" she asked, her voice filled with surprise and warmth. Mrs. Romero embraced Valentina, holding her tightly. "Oh, dear child, I haven't seen you in years. Your father's feud with your mother robbed me of your entire childhood. Look at you now, all grown up. Is this your husband?"

Valentina smiled softly, "No, Grandma, this is my boyfriend, Carlos." She introduced. Mrs. Romero chuckled, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief, "Carlos, such a nice name. One very handsome man you are."

As they spoke, the awkwardness of the situation began to fade, replaced by the warmth of reconnection. After some time, Valentina and Carlos took their seats, now feeling more at ease. They sat close to Alex and Nicholas.

After the memorial service, Valentina and Carlos found themselves engaged in conversation with one of Valentina's acquaintances when a couple approached them. "Valentina," the man said. Valentina recognized him immediately, her father. "Mr. Romero," she greeted him politely.

He seemed slightly taken aback but continued the conversation. "What do you do these days?" he asked her. "I am a dentist, sir," Valentina replied formally.

"That's nice... Do I know you from somewhere?" he inquired, turning his attention to Carlos, who extended a hand with an awkward smile. "I'm Carlos Sainz, a driver for Ferrari in Formula 1. Perhaps you've heard of me, sir?"

Mr. Romero's eyes lit up with recognition. "Ah, that's where I know you from," he acknowledged before turning to the couple. "And are you both together?"