Adrenaline: A Lestappen Story

𝟏 - 𝐛𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

Amidst the glittering celebration after Max Verstappen's triumph in the Monaco Grand Prix, the post-race party pulsated with an electric energy. The clinking of champagne glasses echoed the cheers of a victorious crowd as Verstappen, adorned in the glow of success, reveled in the company of fellow drivers and spirited fans.

It was to no surprise that the Dutch driver had easily mastered that race weekend. After all, that was his home race in a way. Max Verstappen had been living in Monaco ever since he joined Formula One, around ten years ago.

The night club venue, adorned with racing memorabilia and vibrant lights, pulsated to the rhythm of lively music. A sea of well-dressed attendees, including other team drivers, team members, and jubilant fans, mingled in the nightclub. 

In one corner, Max Verstappen, the star of the night, was surrounded by well-wishers, his infectious smile reflecting the triumph of the race. Champagne bottles popped, releasing a cascade of effervescence that mirrored the elation in the room. Everything was allowed inside and every type of drug ran around like water; and like air, drinks were free at every table.
Charles Leclerc, accompanied by a select group of fellow drivers, added an extra layer to the festivities. Leclerc's presence was marked by an easygoing charm that resonated with both fans and close colleagues.

The group that included Leclerc found a corner of the celebration where laughter and anecdotes flowed freely, unaffected by the presence of Red Bull team members. The concept of sportsmanship between competitors became palpable as they celebrated the race together, maintaining a safe distance from the area reserved for the winning team.Aware that the media were discussing the many reasons that could have cost Charles a pole position at his home race—ranging from bad strategy to a lack of talent—the man couldn't help but throw back countless alcohol shots. With that, Charles gave in to the excitement of the night as a way to distract himself from the disappointment that had been clouding him since before he'd even crossed the finish line.

"Another!" He yelled with enthusiasm. 

A couple of people encouraged the behavior and Charles requested another round for everyone situated around the bar, even though most would be on the dance floor by the time the next round of shots was ready. The Ferrari driver was all smiles and flushed cheeks, chasing the boost in confidence that came with every ounce of alcohol.

When he set the next shot glass down, a couple of bodies had moved closer to him, some aiming for the bartender to make a request, but others offering conversations that he could not soberly keep up with. With polite smiles and laughs, it was easy to slip away, slurring his speech with every hello. With a grin on his face and a playful nod to the friends he left behind, Leclerc skillfully wove his way through the partygoers. The ambient hum of laughter and music faded as he entered the quieter corridor leading to the bathrooms. The contrast between the lively celebration and the hushed ambiance of the hallway created a brief interlude for self-reflection.

Behind the closed bathroom door, the sounds of the party were muffled, allowing Leclerc a moment of solitude. The cool, tiled surroundings offered a welcome reprieve, and as he collected himself, the distant echoes of celebration served as a reminder of the joyous chaos awaiting his return.

Midway through a reflective moment washing his own face, Charles was startled as none other than Max Verstappen joined him at the sink. The clinking of the tap and the splashing of water momentarily drowned out any thoughts that could have possibly passed through the Ferrari driver's mind, leaving him static in the presence of the other driver. It was only when Max's piercing blue gaze met Charles's green eyes that he finally snapped out of his dazed trance.

Before saying anything, Max let out a slurred chuckle, one that made it obvious the amount of alcohol running in his system. "Didn't see you there," he said, continuing to wash his hands, even though they were already perfectly clean, as if he was trying to make time for himself.