IRIS (Daniel Ricciardo)

12

Christian Horner was sitting in the corner of patio, sipping on hot black coffee and enjoying last minutes of peace. Australian Grand Prix was a huge occasion due to Daniel. Even though first two races didn't go as they'd like, Daniel was still trying to push through and Horner kept his fingers crossed for him. 

It was no secret that Daniel was his favourite since the beggining. Throughout all those years they formed a relationship that could be described as half brotherhood and half father and son. 

He liked Checo as well and was proud of his accomplishments along Max's, but really wanted to give his seat to Daniel so he could retire at RedBull. That boy was pure sunshine and although there came some bumps along the way, Christian wanted him to be happy. 

In civil life, he looked happy. First of all, he matured. Hard times at McLaren and followed-up break messed with his head and only Christian and few others knew how hard it was to get him mentally together again and came back with relatively positive mindset.  He was still the same wide smiling, outgoing Daniel, but something was different. In positive way. 

Christian wasn't even surprised him and Heidi broke up. She was a sweet girl and he always liked and respected her, but he felt it was just temporary. Sure Daniel loved her and treated her right, but there was something missing. 

Something he's found with Mabel. 

Christian met her on Monday at dinner. It was private party, only him and Geri, Max with Kelly, Checo and Carola and Daniel with Mabel. He was curious about the girl who made so much impact in his favourite's life. 

And all the rumours were true. Just one look at the couple was enough for everyone to understand how much in love those two were. 

Daniel's hand was throughout the whole encounter resting around Mabel's arms, on her thighs, his fingers were softly coiling ends of her hair. Mabel's face lighten up everytime he displayed his feelings, her eyes stared in adoration, fondling the features of his face, expressing the immense love and respect. 

Unaware of Christian's gaze, young lovers were strutting their way to the paddock. People were stopping them here and there, demanding photo with Daniel, to what Mabel stepped away with smile, either waiting or snapping the photo. Him and Oscar were national heroes and while Daniel loved the attention he was getting, young McLaren driver would rather hide and come out only to drive. 

Mabel got to say quick hi to Lando who was in good mood, appreciating she finally came. Warm familiar smile made her happy as she was overwhelmed from all the people, noise, attention. 

When free pratices started, she kissed Daniel good luck and moved away for bit before returning back to paddock. It was all to much and she yearned for few minutes of calm. But she knew how important this is for Daniel and how proud he was to bring her there, so she promised to do everything in her power and more to make him happy. 

"It's a bit too much, isn't it?" Kelly sat down next to her. 

"Yes," Mabel laughed with relief and looked at her, "I feel like my head's getting bigger every minute and it'll just pop." 

"Oh, I get that," Kelly grinned, "even though I grew up in this environment, it just different when it's your man who's sitting in the car." 

"Max is great," Mabel took her by hand, "not only great driver, but also such a nice human being. Daniel speaks very highly of him everytime he comes up in conversation. I must admit I was nervous to meet him, but he made me feel very welcome. And you too. Thank you, Kelly." 

"Aaaw baby, those were some nice words I don't hear very often. Thank you, Mabel." 

It was unusual for Mabel to be so open about her feelings to people, so this was definitely step forward.