Chapter Text
PART 1:
May 1st, friday morning-
It was getting hot in miami, everyone expected some heat, some drama regarding how hot it is, especially with the current global warming.
Mercedes and ferrari were expected to be the ones in peak competition, the ones who will have the most wheel to wheel actions, while other teams like mclaren and redbull, were mostly there for the fans.
It became part of the traditions for the drivers yo attend the fanzone stage and welcome their fans, though the timing differs, it could be on friday, saturday, it depends. For mclaren, it was on saturday for miami, knowing it was a weekend and people are more likely to attend.
- around 7:30 -
Oscar is known for waking up early before races and paddock attendance and interviews etc, he was always prepared, quite the opposite of lando. Oscar woke up at 6:30, he was still on the bed, rethinking his decisions of being an F1 driver
-" hmmm, should i really get up... Man why... Well at least i am optimistic about this week"
Oscar was still thinking, until a message notification appeared on his phone
Reading. 'LN1🧡🧡'
-" why is lando awake, that's not like him..."
Oscar caught himself smiling at lando's message. The thing is, oscar has always been fond of lando, even since he was a kid, watching lando meant everything for him, let alone being close to him. This breakfast idea made him red from embarrassment and shyness, who would've thought, that one day, he would be having a breakfast "date", or that what he convinced himself, with THE lando norris.
Oscar you lucky fanboy. Oscar got up quickly, he wore his comfortable short, his Hawaiian shirt and some thongs, he rushed to clean his room a bit for lando, 2 minutes later he heard the ring bell.
L: oscccccaahhhh, open the door pleaaaseee
Oscar looked through the peephole, lando was making faces at the peephole, knowing oscar would check it for sure.
L: osssccc, let me innnn!!
Oscar rushed to open the door, he took one glimpse at lando, before realising that he was wearing so well for a breakfast in the hotel, clean white shirt with a pair of light blue jeans, and pair of adidas shoes, and a side pastel yellow tied around his neck and covering his shoulders, along with with some accessories. Thought oscar wasnt lost there, he was lost... In lando's eyes.
L: osc? Oscariño? Oscah? OSCAH
It took the last 'oscah' for oscar to focus with him
O: yes uh, im sorry, im sorry for wearing like this, let me, uh, um let me just change real quick
L: you look pretty though!!
O: look at you, you are wearing too well, let me change real quick
L: may i pick your outfit please!!!
Oscar's face turned into a red balloon, fully shy.
O: i mean ... Sure...
Lando was excited, he went in, ignoring any mess, directly to the closet. He stared at it for a straight 5 minutes before saying
L: yeah no your taste in fashion is boring
O: soo... That means we stick with what I'm currently wearing?
L: ah ah, nope follow me
O: wha...
L: follow me to my room
Lando grabbed oscar's hand and started walking to his room, oscar, of course, had no rights to protest, he followed lando. The moment he stepped in, he was met with the smell of his perfume, a very elegant delegate smell, he looked around, lando had two lego sets he carries around, both their helmets.
L: ignore my messy room...
O: what messy...? Is the messy with us in the room?
L: man trust me it is messy...
O: aha... It looks oretty normal to me
L: alright!! Enough with my room, let's see what you can wear
Lando started throwing his shirts left and right, claiming "too tight", "too colourful", "too black", like what is too black...
L: aha! This one is perfect, go for it!!
O: but it isn't that different from your outfit ?
L: we can match!!! If that's okay of co-
O: that's OK FOR ME IT'S OK!
L: oh- well go ahead, you can change
O: here...?
L: i mean i don't mind, We're both men, we saw each others naked when we were in the ice bath, but if you want privacy the bathroom is right in front of you..
O: gotcha...
Oscar chose the bathroom of course, he went in, he was welcomed with the many types of shampoo in front of him, 'damn... Lando uses all kind of shampoos, what even is hazelnut preshampooing...', oscar was quite taken back by the variety of conditioners and shampoos.
5 minutes passed
Lando started getting hungry, and oscar seemed to take a bit longer than expected, thus, what would he do? He knocked on the bathroom door.
L: are you okay there osc?
O: yeah uh, um...
L: shirt too tight?
O: kind of? But its not worried, its only tight around the back, it shouldn't be an issue
Oscar opened the door, and of course, he was looking majestic and also shy.
L: damn....
O: excuse me ? Is it bad??
Lando was too focused on oscar's well built body to even notice that oscar was speaking to him
O: lan?
L: YES, yes, ducks are flying animals, yes all good
O: uh... We shall go?
L: yes yes, you go first so i can lock the room
10 minutes passed, oscar and lando reached the buffet, they picked a table quite far from people, isolated between them. Each went to grab their breakfast, oscar sat down first, then came lando, oscar's plate had some australian specialties, while lando's was straight up a british one.
O: are you really going to have beans in the morning
L: listen to yourself mr.piastri, beans are a delicacy, of course i will be having them, and what about you? Huh? Black thing on a toast
O: its a Vegemite sandwich lando...
L: well it looks interesting
O: yea, you can have a bite if you want
L: no thanks I'll stick to my british dish
O: as you wish...
5 minutes into the breakfast, things got awkward, until oscar began speaking.
O: so... Earlier you said you were bothered by something and couldn't go back to sleep, may i ask why?
L: oh yeah about that, its probably nothing, just me and my mind alone
O: no no, i wanna listen, maybe i can try to help
L: its not really a psychological issue its more of... Intuition? If that's what you can call it
O: what do you mean
L: i dont know honestly, I've been having this weird feeling since mid of last week, that something is gonna happen.
O: what kind of something, and why now of all times?
L: sooo, do you remember the cases of several celebrities in US getting shot and killed?
O: aha?
L: well honestly, I've been getting a lot of death threats since i won the wdc, and it affected me for some time to the point i started losing excessive weight and got sick many times, and honestly, knowing the history of the US with guns, made it worse for me to get past this weekend
O: i see, why didn't you contact me though?
L: come on osc, you know why, you were going to win a wdc, i won it, you would be full of emotions, probably peak hatred towards me and the team, i didnt want to add more to the fire, and you were having fun too with your friends and family in australia, so I didn't want to bother you
O: lan... You know me, i separate my private life from my professional life, when you won the wdc, yes i was mad, but not at you, or the team, but rather at myself, because i let pressure get hold of me, i couldnt control myself, i let myself fumble an easy win, so it isn't your fault, im responsible for my mistakes, plus even if I'm at the peak time with my family, I'm always open to talk to you if it meant you and your health especially
L: ... Im sorry...
O: don't be sorry, im not blaming you, but please don't hesitate to contact me, to reach out to me, i deeply care about you and so do everyone else, we can't afford to lose such an amazing person...
Lando's face got red before thanking oscar
L: same goes to you then, contact me, and if you couldn't reach me, contact max F, max V, mum, dad, my sisters, brother anyone, even my landlord if needed.
O: thanks lan, still though, why US
L: i told you, the history of US and guns isnt really delightful, anyone can own a gun, snipers as well, it terrifies me, every time i step a foot here, i get scared of getting shot rather than crashing, and with the death threats being sent from US, i got even more terrified
O: I'll protect you haha don't worry, i doubt anything bad will happen, plus, wherever we are, its always safe, as it's always packed with securities, ambulances, police, etc... so you don't have to worry
L: i mean... I hate to admit it.... But... The bad feeling included you ...
Oscar stared into lando for some time before speaking...
O: me?? How so?
L: I don't know, it's just, i happened to have a dream where you got shot, i got shot, and we both were fighting for our lives, and... God i don't wanna remember that horrendous nightmare
O: you dont have to, but let me reassure you, nothing is gonna happen, everything will be fine i promise lan, I'll be with you
Lando smiled before finishing his coffee
L: well, we shouldn't worry much, lets go to the paddock, we got a race ahead of us!!
O: yea... Let's go!!
Oscar and lando left the restaurant directly to the paddock, upon reaching, they got separated to their rooms to get changed to their suits.
Practice 1 had ended, oscar went directly to finish interviews after all he came 3rd, so people will be interviewing the hell out of him, lando on the other hand, finished 7th, which kind of annoyed oscar, making him want to speak to him rather than bunch of journalists.
J- "so oscar piastri, what a comeback, are you expecting much from today's sprint qualifying? After what happened in japan and china?"
"Well honestly im optimistic, i try to do my best and I'll try to maximise as much as possible from the car, so I'll stay humble and optimistic"
J-" what about your teammate lando norris, he appears to have finished 7th, any information as to why?"
"Well honestly i have no idea, but im sure he gave it his best, i heard it was more of a car issue, engine and power unit problem, so let's hope for the best for him"
J- "one more thing mr oscar today the paddock had been chatting non stop, you were seen by some fans having breakfast with lando norris, and arrived together to the paddock, is there anything to be said?"
" I don't know what you're trying to hint or say, but I'm gonna say it, we are normal teammates, rivals, we were boh awake early so we decided to have breakfast until the team tells us to leave for the paddock"
J-" but why were you hiding in the corner?"
" To avoid any paparazzis taking random photos and twisting the context to something unhinged, therefore leading to people misunderstanding the whole situation"
J-" is it possible that you dhare what you spoke about?"
"Absolutely not, what was discussed remains between me and lando, and nothing will be shared whatsoever"
J-"alright thank you for your time mr oscar, alright now let's have a conversation with the race runner up, max verstappen"
Oscar left the interviewer alone, before meeting with max
M: you good mate? You seem perturbed
O: just worried, about lando
M: why ? He all good?
O: yea its just... He said he was having bad feelings about miami
M: ah, yea it happens to him every now and then
O: and?
M: and what
O: does his feeling come true or something
M: most of them yes, but its nothing serious, most his feelings involve him crashing, so it can affect his morale therefore his whole race, making it come true
O: yea... But this time it isnt about a crash...
M: then?
O: he mentioned.... Guns..?
M: gun?? Yea he probably spent the night playing csgo or something, it's too safe for us drivers im assuming, there won't be any inclusion of guns or anything related
O: i see, well thanks for reassuring, I'll go check on him, you better go, the interviewer looks like she'll jump you if you don't answer her haha
M: yea they're crazy, check on him and update me
O: gotcha
Oscar left for his room to cool off a bit, before hearing a knock
O: come in!
Lando entered the room, he looked petite for someone his size
O: lando you good?
L: yea.. bad race, kinda ruined my mood
O: it's just a practice no need to be annoyed about it
L: yea... Well we kinda have a sprint qualifying later so if i couldnt put the car in top 5, I wouldn't be able to do so in the sprint
O: oh don't worry ahout it, your car had some issues, it isn't your fault, im sure by the time the qualifying starts you'll be as good as new
L: you think so?
O: yea of course i do, come here let's have some tea before leaving
Lando approached oscar's couch and sat next to him
O: you know, you should be happy mate, you're the reigning champion, one bad race shouldn't affect you
L: i know i know, its just... Annoying you know
O: yea don't worry about it mate I'm sure it'll be fine.
L: hope so
Oscar and lando began talking about some other stuff, stuff included family, summer vacation, winter vacation, plans for the future, etc...
Until the time for sprint qualifying arrived.
Both drivers left for their cars, each buckled in and got ready, lando was still a bit shaken, though oscar on the other hand was oretty confident.
SQ1 ended, oscar and lando were still among the grid, with lando finishing first and piastri third
Lando began gaining more confidence as he goes to the second SQ
SQ2 ended, oscar came second, while lando ended up 6th, however it hadn't affected lando that much, he was still confident in his car
Finally SQ3 ended, and lando grasled that pole position with 1:27:869, being the fastest throughout the whole qualifying
That indeed gave him more confidence and self esteem, as he was jumping around the moment his eyes met with oscar's
O: congrats mate!!! That's the lando i know, see, i told you, everything will be fine, just go with the flow, you never know what will happen
L: i guess you're right, even for my feelings this morning, it's probably nothing as you said, I'm excited for tomorrow man!!!
Oscar enjoyed every second of witnessing lando jumo like a crazy person, happy with his results.
O: tell me, you free tonight? I know a great pizza place
L: ooo i could use some pizza for a fancy night, didn't know mr piastri was familiar with the streets of miami~
O: haha, not me, but hattie does know, she was the one who recommended it to me
L: let's go for it then!!
O: lovely, I'll text you later
L: all settled!!!
The moment oscar reached home, he called one person... Hattie.
O: omg hattie what should i do, i invited him because he was happy and i was excited and didn't think he'd actually accept, what if i slip and end up exposing my crush for him, what if he is judgemental, what if it doesn't work out, you're sure its a good restaurant? Like sure sure?-
H: woaaahh, chill there buddy, yes i said it last time it's a really good restaurant, it was my to-go restaurant when i went there with my friends during a vacation, also who cares if he doesn't like you back
O: come on hattie you know he is my crush, help a bit at least you're the expert here
H: had someone told you I'm a whore or something, fuck you mean im the expert
O: not like that you silly, i mean you can help because you're a girl, no?
H: misogynist much? Or sexist?
O: oh hattie come on, I'll hang up
H: fine fine, its alright, you dont have to confess yet, know more of him, know his intentions first before committing, maybe he has a gf, maybe he's not ready for a relationship, all this comes with time oscar
O: i see, should i pay for both tonight?
H: if you feel like it sure go for it
O: alright that'll do for tonight, also, can you please help me with what i should wear
H: oh godddd oscar. Fine, but only because i want this ship to sail
O: aha...
Hattie and oscar opened the camera, and thats when he started showing her his stuff. She picked some fancy shirt and blazers for him, along with a pair of trousers similar to the blazer, and a pair of fancy shoes.
H: that should do for the night, have you showered?
O: dude of course i did, that's the first thing i do when done with racing
H: i dont know man, I'm just confirming, anyways gotta go now, enjoy your feast, and don't forget to spill the tea later
O: alright thanks sis, bye
Oscar hang up the phone, before hearing a knock at the door.
As he opened, he was met by a fancy looking expensive lando norris in front of him. Even though he spent time picking a good outfit, as soon as he saw lando, he immediately changed his opinion regarding his own suit
O: you... Look..
L: messy?
O: wha? No no, you look incredible mate, very handsome, uh good looking
L: well thank you there mr piastri, very appealing of you, are you done?
O: yea, um just fixing my hair
L: let me help?
O: you know a lot about hair don't you
L: curly hair comes with a degree, trust me it's annoying, you wouldn't be wanting to come near one
O: i see
L: so, let's see what we have here, all in 3 shampoo aha... And it looks like its near expiration date, oscar, sweetie, its alright, thank god i brought my stuff
O: you wha...
L: i thought I'd be fixing MY hair, but yours needs help too, come here sit down
Oscar sat in front of the bathroom mirror, while lando began applying some special gel, combing oscar's hair, then he grabbed the hair drier, brushed some of the hair, straightened some, then finished with a spray to make it shiny.
O: woah, that looks great
L: yup, that's how it's done mr piastri, not with some kind of weird all in 1 shampoo that expires in two days
O: two days? It was 3 yest- oh...
L: mhm, well, lets go the chauffeur is here
O: what chauffeur? You booked us one?
L: you dont want ?
O: i thought i could drive us since i know the place more
L: no worries I'll cancel it, I'd rather go with you than a chauffeur, i just booked it for you honestly
O: lovely, let me grab my keys and lets go
Oscar and lando left the hotel around 7:24 pm, and reached the pizza place at 7:45 pm. Oscar entered first with lando behind him, he had already reserved the place for them, it was a really fancy and good looking table, quite elegant if you may ask
O: table for two please
-: reservation under who?
O: oscar jack piastri
Lando got a bit red after hearing oscar say his full name, i mean, after all, who knows if lando also loves oscar? Could be a coincidence no?
The two of them sat down, started eyeing the menu before deciding on a pepperoni pizza and 4 cheese pizza
O: alright, as long as no pineapple pizza
L: hey hey hey! It's a good one not gonna lie
O: what, pineapple on a pizza? What you want kimi to murder us and italians to steal our citizenships?
L: im not saying its bad, but its also not that bad
O: mhm mhm, we'll see what kimi says about this
L: oh please last time i told him i love Bolognese pasta he kept yelling at me that its called 'RAGU RAGU, NOT BOLOGNESE' in his high note voice
O: hahaha i can hear him say that indeed, sooo enough with italians, tell me, how you feeling?
L: honestly i kind of forgot about the whole situation, mostly I'll be able to sleep tonight, thanks to you
O: yea, im glad, again, if you cant sleep or feel lonely, or any signs of sadness depression etc, contact me immediately
L: hay hay captain
Both of them started laughin and giggling, the pizza came, lando started hshshdhahdhs on the pizza while it was hot, oscar was filming him, having his fun, they were basically in love but neither would know yet, oscar also tried to eat his pizza before all of the cheese fell on the plate, lando bursted out laughing and mocking oscar, while osc was trying to eat his cheese with a fork. After some time, they ordered a dessert, that they shared, a flan.
O: alright then mr norris, here's your flan of the day, aaaaaaa
Lando opened his mouth as osc point his spoon at him
L: mmmm~ its so good, here have a bite
Oscar flushed with redness, before eating it, what was meant as a normal hangout, turned out to be a date where neither knew that the other had feelings too.
After finishing the what so called hangout, piastri followed lando to his room.
O: had so much fun today, thank you lan, really needed that before a sprint
L: awww thanks to you too mr piastri, you're fun as well, you really helped me with my situation too
O: my pleasure
L: dont stay up late, we need to go to the fanzone tomorrow
O: what time is it again?
L: 9:00 am i think, wanna go together
O: of course, im always down for a fanzone time with you
L: im glad!!! Well, goodnight oscccc, see you tomorrow~ and tell me when you reach your room.
O: gotcha, goodnight!
Oscar waited for him to enter his room before departing. As soon as he reached he called hattie
O: oh my god hattie, it was amazing
H: tell me EVERYTHING
O: I cant really say everything now because i need to wake up early, but to sum up, it felt like a date for some reasons
H: I'M TELLING YOU THAT BOY LOVES YOU
O: Do YOU really think so???
H: absolutely, listen, im busy right now, you go sleep, and don't you dare forget to tell me everything tomorrow morning or evening, alright mister??
O: of course don't worry, goodnighttt
H: goodnightt
Oscar hang up the phone quickly then changed into his comfortable clothes. He laid on the bed, sent a message to lando.
oscar closed his phone and went to sleep, though sleep came with many great scenarios and dreams of him a lando to the point he even considered confessing after miami.
Though? Will he do it? Or will something happen.
Saturday, may 2nd, 9:00 am
Oscar and lando were seen in the fanzone, doing random challenges ,speaking about each others, the woman with them was talking to both of them and trying to show the fans their great relationship.
W-" SOOOO MISTER OSCAR, why don't you tell us about yesterday dinner plans!!! People, fans have seen you with lando norris over here having dinner at a pizzeria very known in miami!!!"
O-" it was more of a professional work dinner if you ask me, but mr lando norris here seems to cherish such moments, he really loves dressing up for the smallest occasions"
L-" AY that's not trueeee, i just happen to love taking care of myself!!! Plus oscar over here has the most boring wardrobe I've ever seen, really osc, 5 white t shirts that are literally the same colour and size and everything??"
O-" listen, i prefer comfort over beauty!!"
L-" you are literally australian, you live with insects every second and you speak of comfort??"
W-" woah gentlemennnn, relax, also why were you in his wardrobe landooo"
L-" i wanted to check something, and found nothing but white shirts"
O-" hahaha i say comfort is better"
Before speaking, lando felt some sort of increase in his heart beats, which made him look distressed, he felt... Like danger is here...
Oscar noticed and asked for a 5 minutes break for water, of course she had no choice but to accept. As soon as they were alone oscar spoke up first
O:" you ok?"
L: y...yeah... Sorry about earlier in front of the fans"
O:" it doesnt bother me we're both joking"
L:' in my defense your wardrobe is still boring"
O:" we will discuss this later you funny one, but first tell me, you good?
L:" i dont know... Something... Something is telling me to leave now... But... I dont know..."
O:" are you sure you can finish this meeting?"
L" yes... I can... But the feeling osc, it came back"
O:" don't worry i asked the securities to be extra cautious today, I'll be with you until the end lan"
L:" alright, thanks oscy"
Oscar reddened as he heard the new nickname
O:" os..oscy?"
L:" new nickname, sounded cute, ergo i used it"
O:" sounds nice, landito, let's go back there"
Lando nodded and left with oscar to reappear on the stage
The woman began chatting with them, asking them about each other's birthdays, favourite stuff, and surprisingly both know the other very well.
Things were going really great, oscar was lost in lando's eyes, lando was constantly smiling, until...
W-" sooo in a situation where you find a big spider, who handles the entire thing?"
L-"honestly, i mean oscar over here seems to know a lot about spiders, he literally lived with them"
The crowd of fans in miami erupted, laughter, cheers, nobody expected what was gonna happen, the crowd was full of landoscar lovers, they kept showing cardboards with landoscar dynamic stickers on it.
O-"Yeah i mean if you think about it, spiders aren't the worst mate"
L-"What do you mean they're literally the wor-"
And that's when it happened
The cheers, lando's speech, Interrupted by loud gunshots, the crowd was shouting, many thinking it hit them, it wasn't a normal pistol gun shot, it was more, something larger, something bigger, until they saw it, two shots fired...
at lando....
One hit his chest near his heart, the other on his side, both went through his body leaving two holes for the blood.
Oscar was focused on lando's eyes before it happened, once the first shot hit him, it didnt take another second for the second one to him too, oscar was shocked, he was speechless, he couldnt say anything until one word left his mouth
"LAN-"
Then it came... two more shots, not at lando this time, or the crowd or the interviewer, but rather... at oscar.
First one hit his upper body near his shoulders and the other on his abdomen.
Blood flew from his mouth, the abdomen shot didnt leave his body, the shoulder one did.
The interviewer started shouting for ambulances, the shooting went down, it was just the crowd screaming, many crying, yelling, a lot of emotions of anger and sadness overall. oscar fell on his face, on his wounds, while lando was on his back. Oscar lifted his face with whatever energy he had left, he saw it with his own eyes, lando was having a seizure in his own blood, drowning, he was fighting death who was trying to steal his soul away, oscar tried to yell his name, but nothing came out but blood. Loud screaming, everyone is crying and shouting, then he heard it loudly, the ambulance sirens were approaching, getting closer, in his mind, he was trying to tell lando, 'its ok, you'll be ok, help is here', before his eyes started to drop making it hard to stay awake.
He used his remaining energy, to say one last thing, as he saw lando calming down, usually thats a positive sign, but in this case, it only means one thing...
Lando is losing the battle...
"L..lan...do.."
Whispered oscar, as his eyes began dropping, while staring at the pool of blood surrounding the one whom he had breakfast with, whom he saw laughing, oh god his beautiful smile, his laugh his kind heart, the one he had dinner with, he stole his slice of pizza, he fed him the flan, and sent him a goodnight text. The one whom he promised to confess to after miami... Now.. what remains is the guilt, and whether they will survive or not.
Next thing he remembers, is the paramedics yelling his name to stay awake, and from afar, others shouting lando's name. Oh trust me, if he could, he's be shouting too for lando.. but oh well.. will he even survive himself...
PART 2:
...
the sounds were muffled... he couldn't hear anything, only sounds and voices from a distance.
in the outside world, everyone were shocked, many fans were crying and scared for their drivers.
it went viral on social media, every other driver found out, the families found out.
BREAKING NEWS: MCLAREN 2026 DRIVERS WERE CAUGHT IN A SHOOTING INCIDENT!!!!
Both drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were injured following a shooting incident that took place in the Miami GP, the Australian and the British are in critical conditions, many fans fear they might lose them.
Click here for more details...
back in the drivers group chat, the news were sent by Lewis, seeking more information regarding the incident, and also to inform the rest.
12:30 pm
george closed his phone, he looked in distress, he went back to the car to speak to kimi, he found him still in the same position, head down, and eyes closed.
G: kimi...
K:...
G: kimi? you there?
K: si...
G: listen mate, let me take you home or som-
K: NO!!!
G: Kimi you look horrible, you need to rest, what you've seen today isn't easy
K: NOOO! they were there, THEY WERE THERE GEORGE I SAW THEM
G: kimi relax, i am aware of what you've seen, but please
george tried approaching kimi to hold him as he was shaking uncontrollably
G: kimi...
K: please... george... i don't wanna go anywhere... please... the image is still in my head...
george brought kimi closer for a tight hug, before he started hearing a familiar voice from afar shouting his name "GEORGEEEE". He turned around, it was max, he finally arrived, he looked stressed, anxious, mad, sad, basically a ball of emotions.
M: any... news...? (he was panting)
G: not yet... their families, they are still there, oscar's mother and sister are both waiting outside the operation room, as for lando's mother and father, they were spiraling around the hospital, looking for answers, clues, anything...
M: damn it man, how can such thing fucking happen
G: i don't know either, i didn't expect it to happen, for some reasons, i knew america was known for such activities, but for famous athletes?
M: fucking dumb shits, fucked up rules of them
G: calm down now, kimi is still stuck at the fanzone, his mind replaying every moment, apparently he was planning on being a special guest on that stage, but he was waiting for the right moment, though the right moment never came, he saw them get shot from backstage, and froze in his place, he only remembers when they were pulling him away for protection.
M: damn it man, too young to be witnessing such thing...
G: yea... by the way... should i call mark? mark webber? oscar's manager.
M: i mean, what good will it bring him, he won't come here, it's already crowded with us and the families, bringing him will only mean more people, therefore more pressure...
G: yea... but at least i should let him know, no?
M: i guess so, let's find out more first, let's try to talk to the nurses regarding oscar, since lando won't be out until more hours later.
G: i see, what about kimi ?
M: i can drive him to charles, or ask charles to come and stay with him
G: i would appreciate that...
M: alright lemme call him real quick
max drifted away from george, he pulled him phone, dialed charles number, he was already sweating before any answers.
CL *hello? yes max, you okay? everything okay?? lando and oscar??*
MV * Charlie, relax, nothing yet, relax please*
CL * i'm sorry, it's just... oscar is really close to me, and if anything happens i'll fucking kill everyone here*
MV * don't worry hun, just... do you think you can come and pick kimi up or stay with him? he's shaken from the entire incident...*
CL * i see, yes, yes of course, i will be on the way, please tell george to go inside and check on them please*
MV * on it *
max hang up, then turned to george, apparently, george was stilling hugging kimi, who was crying hard into george's chest....
M: i called charles
G: and?
M: he's on his way, go check on them please, i'll stay with kimi until charles comes
G: noted, stay here please
M: of course
Max started hugging kimi, even though he was no fan of hugs and physical touch, over the past years he spent with charles, he kind of learned how to accept hugs and cuddles, all he had to do now is to embrace kimi, for the sake of calming him down, while george grabbed his phone and went inside.
as soon as he stepped a foot in, he got a call from alex.
AA * georgie? any news? *
GR * Still alex, still, i'm sorry im not answering your text messages, i'm just... i'm just trying my best to know more, and check on them, get updated, anything *
AA * it's alright hun, take care of yourself too, if you need any support you can call me you know *
GR * i will do so, don't worry, for now i need to go ask the doctors, apparently i see them speaking to the parents, wait hold on*
AA * george? george wai-*
george put down the phone without hanging up, he approached the doctors who happened to be comforting the parents
G: doc, anything??
doc: as we were telling them right now, oscar has just finished his surgery and is in his room, though he is in a coma right now, we have no idea when he will wake up, nor will he even wake up
G: oh my.... and.... what about lando... he has to be alright too yea?
doc: about mr.Norris... his condition is still critical, we've been trying to stop the bleeding, we've spent so much effort for the past 3 hours, bleeding finally stopped, but he will be needing transfusion, he lost a lot.
G: i see, what is his type...?
doc: O+
G: fuck it man, i'm A+, wait i think i know someone who's O+, if i bring someone will he be alright
doc: we can't know for now, we have closed the wounds for now, though we will reopen later, we ensured that he is able to breathe given his right lung injury, we inserted the IV fluid for now, and once we acquire the blood transfusion, we will do further CT scans and imaging, to determine any damages, the severity of it, and seal the chest wounds, and we will then insert a chest tube to assess with his breathing. The only good news i can tell you, is that he doesn't appear to need any organ replacement, but he needs immediate blood transfusion, if you can get me on in less than 30 minutes, i can try my best to save him in no time.
G: i see, let me contact the person i know for now, to ensure he receives the necessary amount of blood
george sprinted outside the hospital, he knew one person who would be able to donate to lando, his best friend, max fewtrell.
max saw george running out, he was scared for a second.
M: what happened??? what's going on????
G: i need to call max fewtrell, right now, right fucking now
M: are you okay??? is lando ok????? oscar??? what happened, fucking tell me
G: I SAID WAIT FOR FUCK'S SAKE I NEED TO CONTACT MAX NOW
george was so pissed he forgot he was on a call with alex, he hang up quickly, then called max. The phone kept ringing and george was getting fed up, before he answered
MF * yes? who is this?*
GR * OH MY GOD, max max, this is george, george russell, lando's friend*
MF * What's going on?? you ok?? what happened?? why are you calling ?*
GR * oh my god, it's lando, please, are you in US now??*
MF * yes?? i came today, i was planning on watching the race?? what happened*
GR * Fucking hell you're not online, i need you in the hospital, jackson north medical centre, please hurry up, it's about lando, hurry up now please*
MF * on my way *
george hang up, he was so stressed he hadn't noticed himself getting physically drained and tired, he sat on the curb, before max approached him
M: i called albon to come stay with you... you don't seem ok
G: what? no no i'm okay, shouldn't have bothered him...
M: i mean he was coming anyways because you hang up on him without saying anything
G: i see, but i'm okay, i just need to wait for max, and check on oscar, they said he is in a coma now, he was done with the surgery
M: george, i dated you before, i know you, yes we are not on good terms, but i still know you, i still consider you a friend, teammate, and i don't want you destroying your health
G: i am fine max, thanks for your heart warming words, but i am ok
M: i know you're being sarcastic, but i'm sure i wont be able to convince you, alex mostly can.
G: mmm, i see
10 minutes passed, george was getting impatient, until he saw max fewtrell sprinting out of the car towards the hospital entrance
G: MAXXX, MAX OVER HERE
max f looked around, he found george, though he was also concerned for george, who had dark eye bags, messy hair, and clothes drenched in cold sweat.
MF: are you... okay?? also what happened
G: no time to explain, you're an O+ ye??? please say yes
MF: yes i am?? why??
G: i'll explain on the way to the emergency room, come with me
george started fast walking, max f followed without interruption, with pure confusion written all over his face
G: apparently, there was a shooting that occurred today in the fanzone of mclaren, the sole victims were lando and oscar, and both were injured horrifically, one is in a coma currently, he survived for now, and the other requires immediate blood transfusion, and as you can judge from my tone of voice, and me calling you immediately, you can conclude that its-
MF: -lando....
G: exactly, i couldn't find any other person you were the sole person i can rely on, so please, tell me you are able to do so (george stopped and turned around facing max f )
MF: yes, YES, i can, just take me to the doctor, i have no medical issues, no smoking, not bad blood or whatever they think or say or i don't know, just take me there mate, hurry
G: let's go
george brought max f to the doctors, they took him for some questions regarding his health, before proceeding with the blood transfusion
10 minutes has passed, max came out of the blood donation room (note: i genuinely don't know what they're called so excuse my naming)
george stared at him for a good minute before speaking
G: you look like shit, let me drive you home
MF: no... no need, i'm staying here, i want to stay with lando, wait for him, speak with oscar if he wakes up
G: i see, i'm sorry i called you, if i knew someone else i would've called them instead, sorry for getting you involved in this mess
MF: don't apologize mate, he's my best friend, i'd kill for him, i'd give him all of my blood if needed
G: here, have some water you need it to stay hydrated
george and max f sat a bit in the waiting room, talking, chatting, passing the time, until george decided to leave
G: you know my number, i'm leaving now, if anything happens, contact me immediately
MF: Got it
G: thanks max, you're a saviour
max f nodded. as george left, he was met with a stressed max and worried albon outside the hospital.
A: oh my georgie, you look like shit mate, are you okay...
G: everything is fine alex, don't worry
M: tell me, how are they
G: i have no clue about oscar for now, still nothing, but regarding lando, the blood transfusion was a success, and they started another surgery for him, i genuinely can't stand on my feet anymore, i need to go right now, max you should go too, fewtrell is inside, if anything happens he'll text me or call me
M: i see, i'll be leaving too then, kimi is with charles, i'll keep him with us for today, until he calms down, you also need some rest, have some peace
G: alright, thanks max see you tomorrow
george and alex left for their home, on the way, alex made sure george was chill, no noise, nothing, as soon as they reached home, alex rushed to remove george's clothes, helping him to the bath (despite george refusing his help, he still needed it due to the physical and mental exhaustion). Alex made sure george was clean, he gave him his sleeping silk robe, helped him to bed, and opened an air purifier, and some sleeping noises he found on youtube. He kissed george on the cheek before turning off the lights, then keep both their phones with him, in case max f calls.
As for max, as soon as he reached home, he found charles still comforting kimi, though kimi was sound asleep now, charles shushed max before he even spoke, which led to him going to his room, changing and laying on his bed, to text the grid.
Max didn't bother to reply, he just switched to the call app, to contact mark. The phone rang the first time, no answers, he called again, no answers, a third time, and still no answer, so he decided to call the one who would definitely know where mark is. Sebastian Vettel
the phone rang for one time before seb answered
S *yes? hello, who is it?*
M * it's max, max verstappen *
S * oh yea, hi max, is anything wrong? *
M * i tried calling mark, but he didn't answer, any ideas where he is?*
S * oh yea he's in the other room, his phone is with me, it was on mute my bad*
M * i kind of need to tell him something, you can just give him the phone*
S * alright one second, MAAARKKKK, COMEE HERRREEE, MAX VERSTAPPEN IS CALLING YOUUU*
max pulled the phone away from his ears for some time until he finished calling for mark
S * yes max? this is mark*
M * yea, hi mark, i'm sorry for bothering, i just thought i need to tell you this*
S * just so you know you're on speak*
M * doesn't bother me, i need to tell you this now*
S * speak up*
M * have you seen the news or anything?*
S * no?? *
M * well apparently there was a shooting in the paddock today *
S * oh god is everyone ok? *
M * well... by everyone, do you mean the drivers, or the crowd *
S * max, what's going on*
M * there were only two victims....*
S *...*
M *...*
S *.. Max speak?*
M * oscar and lando *
S * (OSCAR??? - seb from the back ) what do you mean oscar??? *
M * ah so you ignored the other person shot, well, yes, oscar got shot, from what i know so far, he is in a coma, we don't know when or if he'll wake up *
S * ( oh my.. mark we should go - seb from the back ) wait seb, what about lando? *
M * lando... yea we still don't know if he'll even survive, they did the blood transfusion but we don't know if he'll actually survive *
S * alright, thank you for tell us max, if anything happens we'll tell you, we are leaving to there *
M * got it, take care, and update me please, see you*
max hang up before they spoke, he then went to sleep, or tried to.
few hours later, as alex was resting on the couch, he received a call from george's phone, it was max f.
A * tell me max, george is as-*
MF * Oh my god, alex, alex, i need to tell you, they just came out of the operation room, they said the surgery went well, oh my god (max was speaking fast, crying, everything that was enough to confuse alex), it's lando, oh my god, i don't, oh my, they said he is okay, or was, or oh my god *
A * woooahhh, relax, calm down, slowly, take a deep breath, is lando ok??? *
MF * they said they were done with the surgery, his chances of surviving increased, he is now in the ICU, both him and oscar are in the ICU, oh my god, also it has been confirmed oscar might wake up soon, could be today or tomorrow, but he'll wake up for sure*
A * oh my god that's great news, why are you crying then????*
MF * i'm just, happy tears, oh my god alex, this is so stressful, oh my god- alex? alex albon? *
A * yes?? who is this??*
MF * mark, i went to the hospital, max is crying so hard he can't hold himself, so i'm speaking on his part to give you the information *
A * i see, tell me please *
MF (Mark) * apparently, regarding oscar, only his family can visit now, he is in the ICU, they are regularly checking on him and he should be awake this week hopefully, as for lando, they said the surgery went better than expected, no blood lost, they managed to seal the wounds, they bandaged him heavily and inserted a chest tube to help him breathe for the time being, though only family can visit him now, the only bad news regarding lando, is that his awakening is unknown, he is in a coma, and also his state can worsen at any time, given the severity of his injuries and how long it took to be taken care of. *
A * i see, thank you for telling me mark, do you need the presence of george? or me?*
MF (mark) * not required, take care of george, let him rest *
A * i see, thank you for your help mark *
Alex went right after hanging up to the group chat
everyone went to sleep, mark and sebastian were still in the hospital, max and lando's parents were outside his room, no one was allowed inside yet, only visits from outside, as lando's state was still under heavy control, he had an ET tube inserted through his mouth ( ET tube is a breathing tube used to help patients breathe in cases where they cannot breathe on their own, or critical injuries ), and a chest tube to deal with hemopneumothorax ( a medical condition, where there is air and blood occupying the pleural cavity - a tiny, fluid-filled space between the lungs and the chest wall - that prevents the lung from expanding naturally and easily ), lando's side was also heavily bandaged, as the large intestines were affected by the shooting, therefore causing heavy bleeding and major blood loss. Max's heart was aching at the image of his best friend laying on a hospital bed, surrounded by endless machines beeping, at any time, his heart machine can go flat, and that is what scared him the most.
Mark and seb were outside of oscar's room, inside, was only his mother and his sister hattie, they travelled all the way from australia to check on him, it was initially a surprise for him during the race, unfortunately it turned to hospital visits, and heart attacks from the incidents. On the bed, oscar was laying, wearing a sling and swathe splint, in order to fixate his shoulder and prevent it from moving due to some bones found broken from the effect of the bullet, as for his abdomen, it was bandaged heavily as well, to prevent any further blood leakage. Oscar was wearing an oxygen mask, and had antibiotics and nasogastric tube attached to his nose, to keep his stomach empty until complete recovery of the intestines, he also had a lot of pain medication inserted in him to help him sleep easily.
both drivers were suffering, but what would happen if one of them wakes up before the other, and has to keep blaming himself for the other?
oscar will definitely wake up first, and will definitely blame himself, knowing that he was the one telling lando that everyone was ok and his feelings weren't real. or what will happen?
PART 3:
Seconds passed, minutes, hours, days, and now the first week is finished. neither woke up.
Nicole piastri hasn't left her son's side, she was disturbed much, until hattie approached her, i mean, hattie was sad too, the girl was close to oscar, like really close, yet she felt like a part of her was torn apart.
H: mom... please, go home, rest, do something, you've been sitting for too long
N: no... im not leaving my son's side...
H: fine, but let me bring you something to drink. you haven't eaten or drunk anything
N: thank you sweetie, but i'm good
H: fine, i'll bring some water and juice, just in case, you might drink later
nicole remained silent, the woman was aching, for her only son, she was constantly worries, ever since he was a kid, every single time he fell, he got hurt, anything, she would rush to be by his side, he was her sunshine, she couldn't afford to lose him...
hattie left the room to be met with mark and seb
S: hattie honey, how is he?, is he okay?, the doctor told us we can go in, but we refused, we don't want to pressure your mom nor oscar
H: oh, yea, he's um, the same, no improvement and no worsening, just the same
M: is your mom doing ok?
H: i doubt it, i'm really getting more tired by day, and so is she, i've been trying to convince her to rest... but she is refusing... seb... can you do me a favor
S: tell me sweetie
H: can you go in there and speak with her please?
S: yes, yes i can honey, you can rest here, mark will take care of you
mark pulled hattie closer to let her sit and rest, meanwhile seb went inside Sebastian saw how broken the mother was, she was holding tightly onto oscar's hand, she couldn't let go, she didn't even know someone was in, until he made it clear himself.
S: heeeyy, nicole?
N: Oh, hey there seb, you're the, um, one who takes care of oscar when i'm not here right?
S: haha if that's how you see it, yes i am
N: oscar has said many good things about you, like that one time you and his manager invited him over, to make him dinner, when he was still new to the racing
S: we have memories with oscar, we ate together, we took him out with us, we drove with him, raced him, everything, and one thing i can tell you
Nicole looked at him with a confused face, she somehow knew what he was going to say, but... she felt like she needed to hear it
S: he is... a strong one, stubborn, no matter what happens, he'll jump back, he would never leave you alone, that's something he made sure of. he told us that way too many times, he loves you dearly, even when racing, he avoid the riskiest things, because he knows that if anything happens to him, you'll kill yourself
Nicole started tearing up, and that's when seb pulled her close for a hug
S: so please, nicole, don't let his work go to waste, he is fighting, he will wake up soon, it could be today, and if he wakes up and finds you in a bad state, he'll never forgive himself, so please, take it easy on yourself, come out, have something to eat, to drink, anything
nicole kept crying before nodding and standing up, seb held her close as to not let her fall and to assess her
the moment they left the room, hattie stood up, she finally saw her mother out of that room, she embraced her hard enough, so close both were crying, right after, seb looked at mark, as a sign to take them home to change and rest. right after mark left, seb went back inside, sitting next to oscar, after all, he considered him his kid too, he loved his way of thinking, his way of acting, and everything, he was more like a son to him, especially when he was coaching him. without any intention, seb felt a tear on his cheek, he wiped it away and pulled his phone to scroll a bit on his instagram.
few hours later, mark returned, he went inside.
M: im back
S: welcome back, tell me, did they reach safely?
M: yea, and hattie is taking care of her
S: that's great, have a seat
M: what about you? you're good?
S: i'm good, yes i'm worried about oscar, but...
M: but?
S: i'm also worried about lando... i mean, he's the one who also tried his best to help oscar during his rookie year, oscar will make it hopefully, like 90%, 99%, its a high chance, but lando...
M: it's better if we don't think negatively, lando will be okay too seb
S: this whole week, every time i pass by his room, max fewtrell would be sitting in front of the room with lando's parents, all of them look wrecked, when i saw the state of lando, man my heart ached too...
M: come here you emotional one
mark brought seb closer for a hug.
M: don't think much of it, it'll be okay
while seb and mark were talking briefly, something moved? seb noticed, he looked at oscar immediately, he thought he was delusional, until he saw it again.
oscar moved his right hand, then his lashes, and eventually he slightly opened his eyes.
S: mark, MARK
M: what???
S: oscar is awake!!! oscar, oscar dear can you hear me???
oscar still hasn't recognized who he is, where he is, or who is even speaking. He turned his head to the left a bit, he winced a bit.
S: don't move, let me bring the doctors, mark stay with him
mark stood up and got closer to oscar
M: oscar, are you aware of where you are?
oscar tried speaking, but his throat was so dry, he couldn't get anything out of his mouth.
M: take it easy buddy, the doctors will come, just nod for yes and don't for no, alright?
oscar nodded slightly.
M: do you remember what happened ? - oscar nodded
M: alright, what about where you are? - nothing came out of him
M: alright buddy, you're in the hospital, you got injured badly and now you're being taken care of, do you feel anything? as in pain? - oscar nodded before wincing a bit
M: alright i'll stop with the questions until the doctors come
the moment he said that, seb came back with the doctor, he was holding some papers, as to evaluate the state oscar was in.
Doc: alright mr piastri, let's have you drink some water first so you can speak.
oscar took few sips before being able to finally say some words
Doc: alright i won't ask much from you, i just want to know on a scale from 1 to 10 how much pain are you in right now
O: n.....ni...nine
Doc: noted, i will be increasing your dose of pain medication just to help you sleep, other than that, do you have any questions?
O: l... l..... lan... do...
Doc: come again?
S: i think he was saying lando - oscar nodded
Doc: lando? as in lando norris if im not mistaken - oscar nodded
Doc: well regarding mr lando, we are still unsure of his state, it is still under regular checkups, as it can worsen at any time, he had two seizures this week, luckily our team managed to save him on time, regardless, we are optimistic, his wounds are sealing successfully, however, his lung condition is still weak, so we are still expecting longer period of recovery.
sebastian was holding his tears, as he looked at oscar, who happened to be full of guilt, he looked like he might break any time now
S: i think that should do for today, we'll talk to you doc if anything happens, thanks for your help
the doctor left right after, meanwhile mark tried to help oscar drink more water, before oscar spoke again
O: its.... my... fault....
he said as he began to tear up, he was trying to talk, even though he was in pain
O: he... warned... me.... b.but... because... i ignored his... signs... he is hurt....and he might.. never... wake up ag...again...
seb and mark looked at each others before speaking
M: it's not your fault oscar, how would you know that someone despised both of you so hard that they'd try to end you?
S: what mark means, is that what happened, none of it is your fault
oscar started crying harder, he lifted his right arm to wipe the tears
O: it... was... it was more.... it was my fault... i should've listened... i should've heard him....
Mark and seb didn't know what to do in this situation, until seb said it
S: and do you think lando would think the same? if roles were reversed, wouldn't he have said the same? that he should've interfered and saved you? please oscar, don't blame yourself, none of this is your fault, and don't worry, lando will be okay, you'll meet with him and you'll say it to him yourself.
Oscar looked at seb before calming down
M: please oscar, make sure you rest, lando will be ok, he's a stubborn one, like you
O: please... check... on... him....
M: once you rest enough, we'll take you to him
oscar nodded before drifting back to sleep.
in the meanwhile seb went out for a breath, he squatted facing the wall, didn't hear mark behind him, as he started covering his eyes and crying
M: seb... you okay?
S: yea, yea, i am don't mind me
M: they'll be okay i promise
S: oscar might be, but lando isn't, and i don't know how oscar will live with it, lando is still alive and oscar had already blamed himself, if he dies what will he do? end his life?
M: relax seb, let's not go that far please, here let me take you home, you need some rest i'll send a text to my driver and tell him to pick hattie and nicole, since oscar is awake, they could use some time to speak with him
S: can we... can we check on lando first? or at least speak with max ?
M: of course love, let's go
seb stood up and went with mark towards lando's room, apparently the parents were finally allowed in, but not max though, he was seen sitting on the chair barely awake
M: fewtrell?
max looked up then stood up quickly he almost fell
MF: oh, yes, hi mister, uh, uhm, mark yes, hi, how can i help
M: easy mate, you don't look good, how are you
MF: wouldn't complain when my best friend is over there fighting for his life
M: i see, seb and i wanted to check on lando, last time they wouldn't allow anyone in, but now they did, any improvement?
MF: he uh had two seizures this week alone, and the doctor kind of said that we might expect more, though the more seizures can mean that his body is not responding well and might mean.... something i do not wish to say
M: yea, i see, how is he so far?
MF: he kind of improved, his wounds are healing as they should, though they said his lung is still recovering, his intestines shouldn't pose any issues, another good thing is that they are expecting his wounds to recover a bit more next week, meaning they can mainly focus on his lung.
M: that's great, i'm glad, any hints or signs regarding when he'll wake up?
MF: so far... nothing, the doctors just keep coming in and out, but nothing new, they said he might wake up this month... but they are not positive, they're trying to be, but the stats are lowering their hopes
seb bit his lips, he was holding in a tear
MF: what about oscar, any updates?
M: well... physically, yes, he woke up today, but, he isn't doing well mentally at all...
MF: oh my, how bad?
M: he's blaming himself for what happened basically
MF: oh my, poor him, i will check on him
M: He's asleep now, im taking seb home, when i'm back i'll come with you
MF: alright, thanks mark, take care
mark took a last glimpse at lando, before grabbing seb and taking him to the car to drive him. As for nicole and hattie, they made it in time to stay with oscar until he wakes up again.
meanwhile... the next day...
oscar's POV:
where am i? i'm wearing... my clothes, and? this thing on my arm... right.. i was shot, but shouldn't i be in bed? where am i.... there's a window, and someone in the... lando... that's lando *knock knock* lando, LANDO !!!, why isn't he hearing me ?? and why are there many doctors... and... someone next to me?? who is it..., it's max... fewtrell... wait, is this real? *winces*, yup, i can feel my arm pain, wait if this is real, then... max is shocked, lando's parents are crying, what's going on ??? (i turned my head towards the window), is something going on in there?, lando? LANDOOOO!!! ANYONEE HEARR MEEEE!!!... wait... lando.... he's shaking... DOCTORSSS, HE IS SHAKING, HAVING A SEIZURE SOMEONE SAV- WAIT-, the doctors... they're surrounding him.... ( i look closer, everything is becoming clearer... a machine? heart machine, yes? doctors are rushing) lando is holding onto the bed handles... and shaking... is he ok?... ( i looked at him with wide eyes ), lando??? please lando... please survive for me, i can't do anything without you, please... ( i tried knocking at the window, screaming his name, hoping for him to survive... until... the machine.. stopped beeping...) lando's hand... calmed down... let go of the handles... i couldn't see his face... only his hand in distress... lando... why are.. why are the doctors not doing anything....
oh oscar... he's... dead.......
lando is... dead?
this is all your fault...
(i stood there shocked, looking at the doctors, some crying, one of them covered lando's face with the blanket)
he's.. dead? like... actually dead?
no... no... NO.. NOOOOO
End of POV
O: NOOOOOOOO
N: OSCAR DEAR CALM DOWN, IT'S A NIGHTMARE, OSCAR PLEASE WAKE UP
oscar woke up quickly and hard it sent a wave of pain to his left shoulder he held it out of pain, before realising, it was all a dream...
he looked at his mother he was in pain, seeing her face made him cry
N: oh honey come here, don't cry, hsshhhhhhhh
O: it's... *sniff* it's all my fucking fault...
N: oh honey it is not please don't blame yourself
O: lando... mom... he's dead because of me..
N: he's not dead honey? it was all a nightmare, please calm down sweetie
O: please, i need to see him please mom i beg you, i'll do anything please i need to see him i can't take it anymore
N: i'll ask the doctor sweetie if i can take you with the wheelchair
Oscar kept crying as hattie went out to ask the doctors. as soon as she came back, she appeared with a wheelchair, indicating that he was allowed to go visit lando
oscar finally had a moment of relief, he got on the wheelchair, as his mom started moving him towards lando's room, where he saw max fewtrell, he was in a worse state than oscar, he looked like he hadn't slept for years, messy hair, old clothes, dry tears, and black eyebags. max noticed him, and looked at him immediately, almost cried.
MF: oh my oscar, mate, i'm glad you're okay, i wanted to visit you, im so glad you're ok-
before max finished speaking, oscar looked down quickly, as if bending or kneeling, he was crying while speaking loudly
O: I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I'M SORRY, I SHOULD'VE TRUST HIS GUTS, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY, I'M SO SORRY.
Oscar kept repeating apologies until his throat gave him, but his mouth didn't, he kept mimicking the word with his lips. mentally, max was uncapable of stopping him, lando's parents even came out of lando's room, they recognized oscar's voice. oscar was still looking down, eyes shut and tears running non stop, with his mouth moving and trying to say sorry.
oscar kept crying until he felt someone kneel in front of him and grab him gently... he looked up finally, his eyes still blurry from tears, and that's when he saw it, it was lando's mom. oh man, the woman was the definition of a mess, her hair looked even gray, messy, dry spots due to tears, red eyes, but still somehow smiled for oscar.
C: oscar... my dear... please... don't apologize honey, look up please...
oscar looked up and couldn't fight the tears coming.
C: none of this is your fault, you were involved in something traumatic, the same as lando, unless you were the shooter, you are not at fault sweetie
O: i'm... sorry, he told me he had a bad feeling, i didn't trust him, i told him it's all in his head.... im so sorry, i'm really sorry, kill me if needed, i'm so sorry
C: oh honey.. don't say such things please, i love lando, my son, and i love you, my son's closest person, i wouldn't kill you even if you were the shooter himself, lando wouldn't allow me to do so... so please, don't say such things, even if i were you and he told me he had a feeling, i'd tell him to brush it off as something not important, it's not you honey... please... don't blame yourself, oh god if lando sees you like this he'd kill everyone in this room
oscar couldn't believe what he was hearing, his tears kept coming
C: so please sweetie, don't blame yourself
cisca hugged him and pulled him closer, which made him cry even harder and hug her back
C: promise me oscar, don't blame yourself honey, please, lando will be okay, i believe in him and god, and so should you
O: i... i....
C: promise?
O: I... promise...
C: there we go, that's the oscar my son loves
oscar was caught off guard with such words... he stared into her...
C: come here dear, you can come in to see him
cisca took over the wheelchair from nicole, and took him inside the room, where lando was peacefully sleeping, his heart machine was beeping peacefully, oscar's heart kept aching, seeing the one he loved, the one he once laughed with, hang out with, done everything with...
C: lando is at peace, no stress, nothing, he is sleeping peacefully, the doctor told us they're getting more optimistic by day, so don't worry my dear, he'll be okay, he is getting better, i promise, he is a fighter...
oscar stared at him, his hand naturally went to grab his hand... the warmth that he felt once, was now just cold...
C: you can stay with us for some time, until they call you for the regular checkup, adam can use some time off
O: how...
C: hmm?
O: how are you not mad at me... i was partly responsible for all this...
C: because my dear, lando says that he has feelings all the time, if we followed what he said every single time, nothing would be done, you might have not taken the best decision, but that wasn't intentional, sweetie you tried to protect him throughout the 3 years of your time racing together, you think i haven't noticed? oh lando speaks about you like you are his angelic saviour or something haha
O: rea...really?
C: oh yea trust me, sometimes he'd speak as if you're his secret lover, oh that boy really loved you... i'm sorry if you are finding out now or it's making you uncomfortable
O: i... i really liked him too.. i just never thought about when to tell him, but after our last hangout, i wanted to confess to him after the race... and... that didn't work out... because of my foolishness and recklessness, now i don't know if i'll ever have the chance again...
C: oscar honey, listen to me, lando is tougher than you think, i'm sure he will be okay... he will survive, and you will get your date, you'll confess, in the best way you want, and here's a tip, he really like non fancy places for dates, he loved the pizza place... like really, he had to tell me about it for 3 hours hahaha.
oscar laughed a bit, then looked at lando, on the bed, peacefully laying there.
O: miss...
C: oh honey, call me mum if needed, by now i consider you his lover
O:... if... you don't mind me asking...
C: hmm?
O: do you think he'll be mad at... me...?
C: who? lando?? that boy would be mad at me before being mad at you, he'd never be mad at you, i'll give you something, when the paramedics brought him back to life in the ambulance, one of them heard him whisper your name, even when he was dying, he still thought of whether you were okay or not, not whether you are at fault or not.
oscar smiled a bit before looking at him again and tearing up
C: oh sweetie come here don't cry, be strong, for him
O: i just... can't help it...
C: haha it's alright i'm sure he'll be fine <3
the hug went on until an hour later oscar was taken back to his room.
back at his room, hattie kept yapping with him, trying to keep him distracted from lando, even though it doesn't work, he still pretended that he was paying attention, until he felt pain in his shoulder again...
nicole called for the doctor to check on him, though upon his arrival, oscar kept feeling the pain increasing for some reasons
Doc: 1-10, how much pain are you in
O: first time... it was like a 2?.... until you came, it became 8... and goooood it fucking hurts
Doc: weird, miss piastri, can you excuse us please, i need to check up on him, we were going to give him a regular room, but i need to check him before doing so
as nicole and hattie waited outside, they heard oscar screaming, nicole barged in
N: OSCAR!!!!
Doc: ma'am please kindly wait outside, the doctors are trying to stitch him up again please wait outside
nicole was taken outside quickly, although she kept hearing oscar shouting in pure pain
half an hour passed, before one of the doctor came out
Doc: so we're done for now, we won't change him to another room, apparently he had a mild infection, and thankfully it was caught on time, we managed to operate a minor surgery and stitched him back again, now we gave him heavy pain medication to help him sleep, he should be asleep, apparently him leaving the room also affected, so from now on let's try to keep him in his room please
N: can we go in?
Doc: not yet as there has to be no noise, he needs some sleep. in the meanwhile you can go home and rest a bit, don't worry about oscar, he'll be fine, we check every 10 minutes
nicole couldn't do anything but leave, after all what was she going to do? arguing meant risking oscar's life...
where is everyone?... i can't... see anyone? am i alive? i can't remember exactly what happened? oscar? oscar?? god is oscar okay.... where is oscar? OSCARRRRR
shit i remember now... i... was shot? but... was oscar shot too? i remember blood, and that's it... but.. no oscar in my memory??
oscar has to be alive... what if... what if he's gone? OSCARRR PLEASE RESPONDD OSCARRR
wait... i can? see that? who is that? is that oscar? please be oscar....
why is everything dark.....
i can't be dead yet
HELLLPPPP, I CAN'T DIE YETT
I NEED OSCAR, PLEASE DON'T LET ME DIEEE
PLEASSEEEE SAVEE MEE SOMEONE PLEASEEEE
in the other side of the hallway, lando's room, doctors rushing out and in, trying to save him, and that is... his 3rd seizure of the week....
maybe lando won't survive?
or no... maybe he will?
what are the chances?
PART 4:
it's may 10th, 8:00 am, nicole and hattie haven't arrived to the hospital yet, mark and seb haven't either, as they were told that oscar had had a mild infection. it was 8:21 when oscar opened his eyes slowly
- where am i?... oh yea, the infection, man that was hella painful... where is mom? hattie? mark and seb? were they not allowed yet?... wait..., let me try to ask if i can visit lando today... man i'm a mess...
oscar tried to reach the call button on his right, he was suffering enough due to the pain in his shoulder- fucking hell, it's painful, aaaghhh
it was a matter of seconds before a doctor came in, to check on him, though finding oscar in a position trying to reach the call button
Doc: there's no need for that mr piastri, i am here, tell me
O: oh, yes, uh, hello, i wanted to know why no one is here yet?
Doc: because your visit hours will start around 9-10 am, as we are still securing some things before we allow visits, any other questions?
O: yea, two actually, first one, when will i be able to leave?
Doc: the ICU or in general
O: general
Doc: well, we need to make sure you are able to move on your own first, given your injuries, and we need the wounds to at least seal 40% 50%, as we can't risk them reopening, approximately i'd say 1 to 2 weeks
O: i see, another thing
Doc: do tell
O: lando... lando norris... any updates on him? and can i visit him today?
Doc: oh yea, about lando norris, well, i would prefer if you don't move today, maybe tomorrow or the day after, as for his state, he had experienced another seizure late at night yesterday, and our team had managed to save him and secure him for the time being...
O: and um... his chances of survival?
Doc: we still don't know, we're trying to be optimistic, and say 60%
O: i see... can i at least see him in a wheelchair?
Doc: i will still have to see until later, we cannot determine whether you can or not now, as we don't know how bad can your state get until tonight
O: ah... can i use my phone please?
Doc: i mean, wouldn't it be better if you rest?
O: i mean, i'm doing fine, not tired, no pain so far, and no one has arrived yet
Doc: actually, there is a friend of yours outside, but we denied him entry, if you want, we can make an exception, he came around 6 am and hasn't left since
O: huh? who ?
Doc: alright from your tone i say i'll let him in, but not for long
O: got it
The doctor left the room, and allowed for the other person to enter. Honestly, oscar expected someone who isn't close to him, except... it's max verstappen. Max had a mix of emotions on his face, oscar had concluded that he came directly after checking on lando. therefore the face. max looked sad, his face looked tired, it was as if his brain had been working overtime, seeing his best friend whom he promised to sim race with, laying on a bed, surrounded by machines that determine his fate... Oscar had a tired face too, along with the pain that can be read through his grimaces. Max approached him, he forced a small smile, as to avoid any negative vibes. He grabbed a chair and sat right next to oscar.
M: heeeyy there buddy
O: hey max, how are you
M: no mate, i should be the one asking that haha
O: well... aside from the fact that i can't really move any part of my left arm, any movement will send a heavy shock of pain through all of it, i was asked to maintain this position, so i don't instigate any new infections or broken bones.
M: new?
O: they found an infection yesterday... i had to undergo a minor surgery, nothing big, it was painful as hell, it knocked me unconscious again. they prohibited my mom and sis from entering, so yea... what about you, how are you doing?
M: hmm, well, for me, i'm doing fine, nothing much honestly, i've been uh... uhm, checking on lando lately
O: i see, i checked on him yesterday...
M: yea... fewtrell told me...
O: aha...
M: i was told about your breakdown, are you okay?
O: ...
M: i can tell the answer from your silence...
O: it's just... i don't know man, you remember that time i came to you after the interview, telling you that lando told me about his bad feeling?
M: oscar... you couldn't have do-
O: i've heard this statement for the 4th time this week
M: that concludes its accuracy then?
O: its... not just that max... i can't seem to convince my brain... every time, every, single, time... i close my eyes, all i see is lando... i just... how would you feel if you were in my place and charles told you the same thing but you brushed it off
M: ...
O: exactly...
M: listen here oscar, you remember lando's crash in 2021? spa?
O: ... yea?
M: that same day, before the race, he was talking to sebastian, i overheard it, he was telling him that he had a bad feeling, regarding the weather and all. At first i thought he was probably faking it or lying, i walked to him before the race, and told him that feelings shouldn't matter much in this sport, as risks are part of the contract, he laughed it off, but it was obvious he was somewhat anxious and i added to the fire... and guess what, his crash made my heart pause for a straight minute, before seb confirmed that he was okay. from that moment, i learned that in this sport, bad feelings also count. after it, there was a race where charles told me about a bad feeling, and i immediately remembered lando. I stopped charles that same day, i told him to race easily, and to not take any risks, he was confused, but he knew how genuine i was, he followed what i told him that day, he rechecked with his team regarding his car, and found that it had a hydraulic problem that could've ended his life badly that race, which helped him to survived a major crash, i hugged him so hard that day, because i thought i was going to lose him, and ever since lando's crash, every bad feeling i hear about, i always followed, even if it included me, however, this time, when you told me that lando spoke about a bad feeling, i looked at you, for an instant, i was going to tell you to make him skip the race, but when you told me that it involved guns, i thought it was probably a bad dream then, because apparently in my system i thought bad feelings were mostly associated with races... my point here, is that the blame does not fall on you, it also falls on me, i could've prevented it too, i could've told you to prevent him no matter what, you didn't know about his said feeling back in spa, i did, i had experience, i could've helped you, recommended a solution, but i carried on with my life, and here we are, you're here stuck, with an injured arm and abdomen, and lando is on the other side of the hallway, with machine strapped to him, he can't even breathe on his own...
O: ...
M: so... oscar... please, don't blame yourself... it isn't you by the end of the day who shot him, you tried saving him, but you were injured yourself, and guess what, this situation is not going to remain the way it is, where the sniper runs away and nothing is served
O: what do you mean...
M: lewis hired a private investigator, charles and carlos have gotten a renowned lawyer to work on the case, russel is dealing with paperwork with albon, basically the whole grid is trying to get you your justice... and as for lando... we can't do anything... but pray and wait for something
O: ... i just... hope he wakes up... even for a second... i want to apologize to him, tell him how much he means to me... i just... i want him alive...
M: oscar...
O: i understand... don't worry
M: yea... i'm gonna stay here with you for now, lando would've probably wanted me to do that
O: by the way, are there any other victims aside from me and lando?
M: physically no, only you two
O: physically?
M: well... if we mean mentally, a lot of the fans were seeing therapists apparently, the scene is stuck in their mind... and that... involves someone else on the grid...
O: huh? someone else? mentally?
M: yea... it's kimi, apparently he said he was supposed to surprise you on the stage, as he saw you guys having a pizza together and wanted to annoy you both with his italian roots
O: oh no, you're telling me he witnessed everything
M: yea, right now he's seeing a therapist, alex goes with him every day
O: don't tell him anything about lando alright?, if he asks just say he's fine just getting the necessary rest
M: he's not a baby you know
O: not like that you idiot, if i were in his place i wouldn't want anyone telling me that the person whom i've witnessed lose their life on the stage is dying in real life
M: well, one day he's gonna find out if lando...
O: i will stop you right there
M: yea i'm sorry...
O: sorry i just can't bring myself to think of such thing.
M: yea i get it...
as max and oscar were chatting, a knock came on the door, max and oscar were both confused, they looked at the time, it was 7:45 am, visiting times haven't come yet. Max stood up from his place and walked towards the door. He opened it slightly and looked at the person there before opening the door completely, and there stood. Cisca Norris, lando's mum.
C: oscar hello my dear...
oscar looked at cisca, he naturally lowered his head, looking down, ignoring the pain in his shoulder. Though cisca immediately noticed him wincing and rushed to his side. pulling him up a bit
C: oscar dear please look up, don't hurt yourself further
max rushed to oscar's other side to help him up. oscar looked at cisca with a guilty face, even though he promised her he wouldn't blame himself again.
C: honey, please, don't hurt yourself, i came to check on you
O: i'm sorry
M: there is no need to apologize
now that oscar looked at cisca clearly, her face wasn't showing signs of sadness and sorrow but rather, there were traces of tears, and her face looked lighter. That meant two options, A- Lando is dead and she coping and came to tell him, or B- there are good news regarding lando, which one was it?
O: are you okay miss cis- mum?
C: i'm fine dear, thanks for asking, i came here to give you some news regarding lando
O: is... is he....
C:....
oscar's face almost twisted to pure disbelief and despair before she added
C: he is not, in fact i have good news
that little statement gave him relief so huge he actually let out a breath he held for days
M: can you tell us please what is it?
C: of course, i just wanted to check on oscar first
O: i i i i i'm fine, i swear please tell me is he okay
C: so, after lando had his 3rd seizure, we all thought that, that was it, we're losing him, until we spoke with the doctors who saved him, they told us that the chances of him surviving are increasing, and that there is a chance of 90% he'd wake up this month, mostly end of this week or the week after...
Max smiled so hard before looking at oscar who now had his eyes wide, out of hope, happiness, disbelief (positive ofc). Oscar lowered his head and tears began dropping quickly. Lando's mum brought him closer, hugged him like he was her son, she cried with him, because both were crying over the same boy, their boy...
M: oscar will be discharged this week or the next one, is it okay if he stays with lando?
C: yes of course, i will bring him myself
oscar looked at max with hopes in his eyes, he was still crying tears of joy, he couldn't believe it... he is going to see him... he... he is going to finally talk to him again... he can finally apologize to him...
few hours later-
The visiting hours finally arrived, nicole and hattie knocked on the door then entered the room, finding both max and lando's mum, at first they were a bit confused as to how did they allow them in so early, but then they smiled, because... oscar wasn't alone, he had people with him... They knew how depressed he was this period of time...
Cisca noticed nicole a bit late, once she did, she stood up to greet her, she hugged her tight and started asking about her..
C: nicole my dear, how are you sweetie
N: oh cisca, i'm glad you're with oscar, i'm fine honey, thank you for looking after oscar too...
C: oh please, don't worry, he's one of us too, i love him the same way i love my son... i wanted to check on him since last time he was in distress, and the doctors told me he had an infection yesterday
N: oh yea, i remember yesterday, it was so hard for him and us, god, those doctors, he was screaming in pain, both me and hattie heard it... it was really bad.
C: oh poor boy
Cisca turned to oscar who now seemed shy and embarrassed, right next to him was max laughing at him.
N: tell me love, how's lando, any... news?
C: yea actually, i was telling oscar earlier, doctors told us that lando has higher chances of surviving now, not only that.. but he will wake up by the end of this week or next week!!
N: Oh my god!!! i'm glad!!!
C: i'm so happy, our kids shouldn't suffer like this, they already suffer enough with their jobs, and now they have to be aware of mentally ill people who carry guns around
N: americans are insane, how can you carry a gun with you the whole time and not get caught??
C: i know right, in belgium this stupid rule does not exist
N: wanna grab some coffee and talk a bit, you seem like you need a rest, is someone with lando now?
C: yes, his father and max his best friend
N: fewtrell?
C: yes
N: lovely, let's grab you something to drink, hattie and max will stay with oscar
hattie looked at her mother, she was happy that she is finally shining again. Grateful for this moment. The two mothers left, meanwhile hattie turned quickly to oscar who was now laying on the inclined bed instead of sitting a 90 degree angle.
H: sooooo, now that we have you alive and well, are you planning on telling me the tea?
O: alive yes, well i doubt it, but nonetheless, what tea?
M: you think we haven't heard of your ''dinner'' with lando? the pizzaria?
O: oh haha, yea about that
H: so go one tell us, we are fully sat for this moment
O: so basically, after i finished my call with you (hattie), he knocked on the door, i was not expecting him to arrive early, so i opened, and god... he looked so handsome in his suit...
max and hattie stared at each others, giving each others the sign of "he's definitely gay".
O: he thought i was going to call him ugly!! can you believe it, i would never do such thing !!! god, he looked so gorgeous, his suit, very neat, the accessories gave him a shine i've never seen before... his eyes.. lashes.. they were full of happiness, i couldn't sustain my happiness as well, upon looking at him, man... that was an amazing moment.
H: we get it you're gay, move on!!
O: ay ay, you asked for the tea, let me relive the moment again
hattie and max laughed at him before letting him continue.
O: after complementing him and getting lost in his beautiful eyes, he decided it was my time, and wanted to fix my hair, as hattie knows, i don't pay much attention to my hair and clothing style. so basically, he brought his own shampoos, conditioners, and man he uses a lot of them
H: have you ever used that small thing in your head called brain, and concluded that it's maybe because he has curly hair
O: yea yea, don't worry, anyways, so after he was done with my hair, i took him to my car, and god, he was blasting music all the way to the restaurant like a DJ, and not gonna lie, it was fun, fun seeing him having his fun, dancing while strapped by the belt, he was singing, and haha his voice, even though it wasn't the best, it was delightful to see him enjoy his time to the maximum. On the way to the restaurant, we stopped for two drinks, i got him his monster and i got for myself mine, except after he saw them, he picked mine, and said that he loved it more than his, and not gonna lie, his was the more tasty one, i didn't mind it at all. skipping to whe-
H: no no no, nuh uh, no skipping, tell us with details, what did you guys discuss??
O: we didn't discuss much, he was telling me how much he was excited for the pizzeria you recommended
H: you idiot, you told him i recommended it?
O: it's ok, he took it as ' i trusted my dear sister '
M: i mean a win is a win
O: anyways, once we reached, we sat down, chose the pizzas, it was obvious he didn't want to pick any other pizzas to not look weird in front of me, i knew he liked pineapple pizza, and 4 cheese one, so i chose the 4 cheese one for him, when he saw it, i gave it to him immediately, he looked at me with happiness exploding from his eyes, and told me ' i didn't know that you knew my favourite pizza, that's fancy of you mr piastri ', and... honestly the feelings i had that moment, it was pure joy, the best thing that happened in my life.
Max and hattie couldn't sustain their excitement, they looked at each others before looking at oscar again.
O: we shared the pizzas, i fed him a slice of the pepperoni, and wiped his mouth that had red sauce haha, it was funny not gonna lie, and immediately right after, he tried feeding me the cheese one, but half of the cheese fell on my plate, haha, i had to pick it up with a fork, but he was faster than me, scooped it, and shoved it directly in my mouth while laughing hard. after the pizzas, he wanted dessert, and that was the most obvious thing i've seen honestly, it was so clear that he didn't want to say it out loud, so i ordered it on my own, i knew he liked flan, and there was a 'share the flan' offer, so i ordered one for both. Once it came, i scooped the first bite, and gave it to him, his eyes were filled with joy and gratitude. he ate it then fed me one too, it was the greatest time ever, and while eating the flan he kept telling me about his weird crazy aunt stories, how she fell from the stairs, how her son is jealous of him, how she always tried to hate on his mum, and so on.. many stories of her were told, at one time, when he telling me about how she tried accusing him of stealing her jewellery, he almost yelled the entire story out, and you think i cared? not really, i was honestly just enjoying his company, listening to him endlessly, it was like as if i was lost in the galaxy, except he was my galaxy...
Hattie started sniffing from happiness, max handed her a tissue, apparently max was seeing himself and charles in lando and oscar, the same scenarios, same feelings, same everything, that's why he was enjoying it... He was definitely going to take charles out on a dinner tonight, after all he was taking care of kimi the entire night yesterday, he'll leave kimi with russell and take his love out on a fancy dinner too.
O: after the dinner, he was feeling a bit sleepy, i lowered the lights in the car, gave him a blanket i had in my car boot, and a small pillow, the ride was 30 minutes, so 20 minutes of sleep shouldn't hurt...
H: what happened to the other 10 minutes
O: he was still telling me about his crazy aunt
M: and you listened to all of the stories
O: i'm pretty sure those were not complete, but i've listened to whatever he was telling me... once we almost reached, i woke him up slowly and gently, god his eyes when he woke up were like a pair of diamonds, from that instant, those were my favourite diamonds... i couldn't help myself but help him sit up, wipe his face, put the blankets and pillows away, and then he started thanking me and telling me how i shouldn't have helped him and waste my time, but to me that was the best thing i've done for my time...
H: you silly one
O: what can i say, i enjoyed his company so hard... once we reached his room, we departed, i went back to mine, and he texted me a goodnight..
M: he definitely cared about you...
O: yea... i can't wait for him to wake up so i can be there for him and tell him how much i'm sorry, and how much i missed him
H: i'm pretty sure he's waiting to meet you too
M: so tell us... which moment got you to say ' yes... this is the man i want to spend my life with ', for example for me it was when charles made me a homemade cake that he decorated on his own for my birthday, he knew i wasn't that fond of cakes, not only that, but he also apologized for burning some of it. Man that was definitely the moment that made me realise i will marry him no matter what
O: for me?
M: yea, you told us not long ago that you were going to confess after the miami race no? what made you come to such decision
O: honestly, it was before the sprint qualifying, we were in his room, i was trying to comfort him, until he started screaming like he saw a ghost, and it was basically a spider, he kept yelling my name begging me to kill it, and when i did he looked at me with tears of joy in his eyes and kept telling me how grateful he was for me, then he told me 'you're australian, australians are good with spider, i want to keep you'... i laughed at the moment, but honestly, that was what made me want to confess to him and maybe propose as well...
H: you guys are genuinely cute, can't wait to see more of you both...
O: i hope so too hattie, hope so too
M: i will be leaving soon, i will check on him before i leave, and leave you a message, also speaking of messages, you should drop a text on the group chat, many still believe you're unconscious...
O:really???
M: yea, surprisingly carlos is one of them, he still thinks you and lando are unconscious and might not wake up
O: i'll text him, and maybe tell him to come some day, i can try to update him on lando, he's probably scared for him too, i mean lando is like a little brother to him
M: yea, you should do that too, anyways i will be taking my leave, i hope i managed to keep you some company oscar
O: you did, thank you max, enjoyed your presence
H: what about me you idiot
O: you're my sister, i lived with you for god knows how long
H: ah damn you
max, hattie and oscar laughed for some time, around an hour, kind of time... Max then left to check on lando, he passed by his room, briefly, looked at his friend, stared at his state, he knew how much he is suffering...
man... lando... if only you knew how fucking important you are to all of us... don't lose this battle please... we beg you...
max thought for some time, then left the hospital... back in oscar's room, it was still him and hattie alone. both were just chatting, hattie was telling oscar about her new boyfriend, while oscar was listening to her fully focused..
as she continued to speak, he pulled his phone, as he remembered that he was supposed to text sainz and the groupchat... he stopped her for some time as to not interrupt her or make her feel like he wasn't paying attention, and proceeded with texting
Oscar looked at the text and smiled, before noticing a private message popping up
Oscar closed his phone, stared right in front of him...
is it true... that carlos isn't mad at me... i mean... i was responsible for lando's accident... man... this thing is really affecting me... i want to check on lando so bad... maybe... i can prevent that dream from happening... if he's having seizures, maybe the dream was a sign for me, should i ask the doctor to check on him... man... relax oscar, fewtrell and mr adam are there, if anything were to happen to lando, they'd notice...
Oscar's mind kept racing, he didnt even pay attention to the time, apparently he spent almost an hour thinking about lando alone, until he heard a knock, and someone come in.
Oscar was already having some migraines, seeing the person in front of him required some efforts...
until he remembered, it's probably sainz, he said he'd be here around 11:30? what time is it now?
Oscar kept looking around for his phone or a clock to check the time, though, one small detail he forgot about... he has a shoulder injury, and the smallest movement will send a shockwave of pain to his upper body. He laid back as soon as he felt the pain. and he finally knew who the person is, by just their voice
CS: relax, you don't have to move much, you're still injured
O: i'm having some migraines, i can't clearly make out who you are from afar, but from the voice, carlos?
CS: yes, don't worry, it's me, i came to check on you
O: thank you carlos
Carlos pulled the chair next to oscar, and sat right beside him. The moment oscar saw his face, he knew... carlos was not mad... he was... sad? disappointed? unhappy?
CS: don't think much... i'm not mad at you, i don't even know why you'd think that?
O: probably because lando getting hurt is mainly due to my selfishness and recklessness?
CS: are you the shooter?
O: i heard this from max already
CS: verstappen?
O: yea
CS: then that should be your sign to understand that what he said is true no?
O: since no one managed to understand me, maybe max did, but i don't know... i am aware it's not directly my fault, i didn't shoot him, didn't know there was a shooter, nor did i push him to be hurt, but... indirectly i was responsible, he'd been telling me for two days straight that he was having bad feelings, and what do i do? nothing? i just tell him that it'll be okay... yes i'm not responsible directly, but me telling him to brush off his feelings and that everything will be alright is what led to this incident...
CS: i see where you're coming from...
O: thank you, but still though, i don't know how i'm gonna meet him when he wakes up
CS: He's waking up???
O: oh they haven't told you? apparently from what i got from his mum, he should be waking up this week or the next one, most certainly, he's waking up soon. That's the only thing that's keeping me hopeful
CS: no problemo oscar, no problemo, pero listen to me, you blaming yourself, is not going to lead to anything, even if he doesn't make, you will blame yourself, get depressed lead to i don't know what sickness, and you will try to kill yourself, do you think lando would want that? if he was in your place, you told him you had a bad feeling, and he told you to brush it off, would you hate him if you were the one at risk of death?
O: of course i'd forgive him
CS: then you got your answer, lando loves you, he won't be mad at you, when i contacted you, and you thought i was mad, i am not mad at you, but at me, because lando and i had a fight before the incident, not a big one, but enough to keep me guilty
O: if you don't mind me asking? why did you fight
CS: similar issue, he tried telling me about his bad feeling, but the way i handled it was way worse, you probably tried to comfort him, help him, soften the situation and his feelings to him, for me, i was already in a bad mood, and i created a fight out of nothing, i kept screaming at him saying that he's a grown up, a racer, his job is risky, he either toughens up and races, or he should quit...
O:...
CS: you're the one who should be mad at me, not the other way around, and i'm not trying to excuse myself, i am fully aware that it's my fault for being harsh on him
O: so that's why he was in quite a bad mood after the practice?
CS: yea...
O: i see...
CS: So you, you shouldn't blame yourself, using your logic we are all at fault, what i did is wrong, but if i knew that he'd get hurt badly, i wouldn't have said all of these things
O: so... basically?
CS: my point stands, don't blame yourself, and that's why i wanted to talk to you, i was sure you were going to blame yourself, so i wanted to make sure you wouldn't, other than that, how are you feeling?
O: like shit, my shoulder is hurting like hell, the doctor said i might get discharged this week or the one after, but recovery will take a long time, the shoulder injury was the worse one, my abdomen hurts when i try to drink or eat, but it'll heal in like a month or more, walking will be hard though
CS: take it easy, i will help you with your recovery
O: thank you carlos...
CS: de nada, i will be taking my leave, just... you stay safe, i'll check on you tomorrow too if you don't mind
O: no issue, you're lando's older brother, how would i mind
Carlos teared up a bit upon hearing that statement, he smiled back at oscar before leaving.
While oscar rested in his room, carlos passed by lando's room, he saw his little brother (not literally) strapped in those machines, he couldn't help but cry at the sight, his guilt was showering him completely, how could he say these things to him? will he even get the chance to take them back?
he wiped those tears and left the ICU hallway. Lando has to wake up... not a choice...
PART 5: ( It wil be a short one for today, i'm sorry, i might skip some days, because i'm really busy :"), but i'll try my best to not skip any day and update regularly, this part is short because the drama mostly continues the next part <3)
a week has passed, oscar was the same, according to doctors, nothing new regarding his abdomen and shoulder injury, though he has been transferred outside the ICU, to a regular room, which is a good sign, meaning that he will finally enter his recovery period.
during the week, it was either carlos, max, or oscar's family who visited, russell checked on him once, and so did lewis, the reason was that they were quite busy with the case. Oscar hated the case, because why is the FIA not doing its' job and investigating this issue, instead the drivers are the ones doing the work, they have been protesting against it, and no driver agreed to drive for the upcoming race, as some sort of boycott activity.
it's sunday may 17th, oscar has been transferred on the 16th of may, one good thing that's keeping oscar excited to leave this hell, is that he'll get to stay next to lando until he wakes up, not that he's praying he doesn't wake up before oscar is recovered, but he wants to be next to lando at all times.
hattie went back to australia the previous day, after making sure that oscar was well, though nicole stayed, she stated that until oscar is fully recovered she won't leave his side. at around 12:28 pm, nicole was with cisca, getting some coffee, while oscar was chilling and talking with carlos who passed by in the morning. Carlos was keeping him updated regarding lando, and the case that lewis and russell are handling, until the doctor came in.
Doc: good morning mr. piastri, i hope you're doing fine, i came here to keep you updated on your situation, tell me first, are feeling better, any pain, or worse?
O: honestly, im not better, nor worse, i can say my abdomen pain is around 2/10, not really affecting me, although the shoulder pain, it's more of internal pain rather than scar pain or anything, so mostly around 5-6/10
Doc: that's an improvement from last time
O: oh then that's great, what's the plan for today
Doc: considering now that you are starting your recovery plan, we will take it easy, we will start by helping you gain balance when standing up, if your friend here wouldn't mind helping
CS: i'm here to help
O: Thanks carlos
Doc: alright then, mr...?
CS: sainz, carlos sainz
Doc: alright then mr.sainz, if you don't mind, i will help oscar sit and stand up, i just want you to keep your guard up in case he fell or anything, all good?
CS: noted
The doctor approached oscar from the right side, held his arm, tried pushing him from his back without placing any force on his other injured shoulder. Oscar winced a bit, but he knew that he need to do this, he missed walking and being active so bad. Once oscar was full seated on the edge of the bed, he can feel the cold of the floor without even touching it, his abdomen was hurting him slightly from the shifts he had done to sit, same for his shoulder, though the pain level was the same.
Doc: alright so, easy, take it easy, i will hold you from the right side, and keep my left arm as a support for your back. Take it easy
CS: you got this, don't worry i will be watching you closely
oscar started by putting on leg on the floor, god that sent a huge shock of pain to his abdomen, but he didn't care much about it, he was still resting his lower body on the edge of the bed, though now both his feet were on the ground.
Oscar was sweating, the doctor was placing a lot of effort in keeping him balanced, but he can feel the earth shaking, or maybe it's him, his abdomen was slowly killing him, his shoulder hadn't changed honestly.
Doc: alright, let's pull you slightly away from the bed, to see how balanced you are
Oscar tried to straighten his back as to step away from the bed, but that sent a huge shock of pain to his abdomen he almost fell, carlos was luckily there to keep him up.
Doc: alright, easy, let's take it easy, look at me in the eyes mr. piastri, mr.sainz you can let go, i want you to try and slide your right leg, not lift, just slide
Oscar tried sliding his right foot, to move slowly, he moved by a cm to the front, before trying to slide his left foot, he was in immense pain already, he couldn't hold it anymore
CS: don't you think that's enough for him, he stood up, moved a step, and kept his balance, he looks like he would give up any second now
Doc: if you think so, it's alright, let's bring you back to bed mr. piastri
Carlos hurried to wrap his arm around oscar so he doesn't fall, then slowly helped him get back up on the bed.
Once he settled on the bed, oscar was already tired, physically, rather than sleepy tired.
Doc: alright, that should be it for today, i'll come back tomorrow for our second session
O:...*panting* if you.. don't mind me asking... by the *panting*...
CS: easy mate
O: by the end of this week... will i be able... to walk... on my own...
Doc: you'll probably be able to walk small distance, not a marathon, but we'll see what we can do to help you reach the results you want
CS: i think i understood what he is hinting at, let me rephrase, will he be able to leave his room, and stay at lando's room in the ICU?
Doc: well, most likely yes, he will be able to move there, but still won't leave the hospital if he hasn't recovered fully
O: n..nice...
CS: alright thank you doctor, other than that, if he decided he wants to try to walk on his own, with either me or his other friend with him, will you allow him?
Doc: i would prefer if you call a doctor, or me, just for assistance
O: alright, thank you doc...
The doctor left right after, oscar fell back on the bed, his abdomen was killing him, he didn't want to drink or eat, just rest..
CS: nice job for today
O: yea, it was hella painful, the pain of my abdomen shifted to my legs for some reasons, perhaps girls feel like this on their periods?
CS: yea, my girlfriend feels like that too
O: well maybe now if a girl tells me you don't know how period feels like, might as well tell her she doesn't know what getting shot in your abdomen feels like
CS: haha, no oscar, we don't talk like that to women, being gay is no excuse
O: excuse you, who said anything about me being gay
CS: oscar, the whole grid knows by now, don't worry
oscar was looking at carlos with his eyes squinted, as a confusion sign...
O: oh really, we were that obvious?
CS: you and lando? yea you were, i believe only you didn't know you were gay i suppose
O: most likely, apparently lando had a crush on me, while i was having an existential crisis on whether he likes me or not
CS: how didn't you know??? even alonso knew
O: well i haven't thought about that now have i
CS: i guess so
O: what time is it now?
CS: uh, 13:19 pm
O: you're telling me i spent almost an hour trying to stand up and walk
CS: are you an idiot, the hour was spent on us speaking, you trying to walk roughly took 20-30 minutes
O: oh yea, fair enough
CS: you know, i'm glad that you're more able to communicate, freely, seeing you hurt really annoyed me, being hurt doesn't fit you
O: neither does this thing attached to my arm, it's so tight, i can't even move my fingers
CS: expect it for a longer period.
O: i suppose so
Carlos and oscar kept chatting for almost a whole day, until a phone rang, it was carlos'. when he checked, lewis was the one calling, so he answered and kept the phone in speaker mode.
CS * lewis hello, how are you*
LH * i'm fine, how are you and oscar, heard from max and the guys that you were there for almost a week, quit annoying the boy haha*
OP* Don't worry lewis, he is helping me well, in fact he caught me today from falling haha*
LW * Ahhh hello there oscar, didn't know i was on speaker, well that's better, was gonna ask carlos to put me on it anyways, i have good news oscar*
OP * tell me?*
LW * So i was with russell not long ago, like two hours or something, we were talking to the lawyer and investigator, and finally after god knows how long, they managed to track the shooter, they found his location, nationality, and every other detail, and the lawyer will be handling the case tomorrow morning, if you'd like to attend as a witness/victim*
OP * oh my god, that's great news!! lando would be happy if he wakes up*
CS *Regarding oscar coming tomorrow, we would need to ask his doctor, because he is still unauthorised to leave.
LW *well regardless, once you have a confirmation of whether he can come or not, it would be a favor, it'd help well with the case, but still though, i don't know if he's mentally ready*
OP *mentally... huh... i don't know either honestly, i feel like i'd be filled with fear and at the same time want to grab him and choke him, kill him...*
LW: * exactly, so you know what, we'll attend tomorrow, if the judge requested the presence of oscar, we'll try to see if we can have him, otherwise we'll present a certificate from his doctor that clearly states his incapability of attending*
CS *Sounds better, tell russell thanks for his help, and you too, you've been doing great to bring justice*
LW *Anything for my closest friends, plus, i really wanted to witness lando and oscar be together, probably marriage, engagement, anything while i'm still alive haha*
OP * i hope you know you're still on speaker, but thanks for the heads up, if lando wakes up i'll inform him*
LW * don't you worry, i already discussed it with him last race, he was fluttered and shy, but he never denied it*
OP * THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME LEWIS, I APPRECIATE IT*
LW * HAHAHA, alright alright, i'll leave you two be, good bye*
Carlos hang up the phone, he stared at oscar for some time before speaking.
CS: It's great isn't it
O: yea, i'm glad, lando is finally gonna get the justice he deserves
CS: yea, you too
O: do you think i can check on him now? in a wheelchair
CS: i'm gonna have to ask the doctor
O: check with him please
Carlos nodded and stood from his chair, he went looking for the nurse, as soon as he spotted her, he requested the doctor. Upon meeting with him, he explained to him that oscar is having mixed thoughts and feelings, and wishes to visit lando. Carlos was informed that to his luck, only fewtrell is next to lando, so they'll let him visit him. Carlos asked one more favor from the doctor (To be revealed later), he got him thinking for some time, before agreeing on one condition, which is to contact him if anything goes wrong.
Carlos smiled a bit, thanked the doctor and went back to the room. Oscar was looking away, he was distracted by his thoughts, carlos thought for a bit, oscar is probably thinking about lando, maybe he's having second thoughts regarding whether he'll make it or not, i hope a quick visit will bring him back to reality and probably encourage him to try and recover faster.... Carlos approached oscar, that was what brought him back to the real world.
Oscar stared at carlos for some time before speaking.
O: sooo, what did he say
CS: He accepted, but i want to do something else before we go.
O: do tell?
CS: Let's get you up first, i want you to try and use the bed edges to sit up
O: i mean i can try, hopefully i'll succeed
CS: I'll be there for you don't worry
Carlos stared as oscar grabbed onto the metal edges of the bed, he tried bring himself up, his abdomen was killing him, a tear left his eye. Once he sat up, he pushed beyond his limits to pull his legs out of the bed. he was panting so hard, but he was happy that he did it on his own, he expected carlos to help, but that was better in his honest opinion.
O:really... expec...ted... you... to help....
CS: i don't want to help, unless it's crucial... i want you to recover as soon as possible, so you can stay with lando...
O: that's sweet of you.... but... really... exhausting....
CS: alright, can you stand up on your own
O: as much as i'd.... love that... it's... hard... but i'll try...
Oscar put his right arm on the edge of the bed, he tried pushing himself onto the floor. His right foot touched the floor first, before getting the chills from how cold it is, then he proceeded to push his left leg, while his bottom was still sitting on the edge of the bed... He tried pushing himself a bit further, his legs almost gave up, he almost fell, he noticed carlos rushing to help, but he stopped him in time, he wanted to continue this... for him... for his mom... for... lando... He brought himself straight again, he bit his lip, and started sliding his right foot, then left, his abdomen was killing him, but he continued, carlos went to oscar's right side. oscar held onto carlos, he was grinning in pure pain, he kept sliding his feet, he was doing his best to move, it was exhausting, but if it meant being ready to meet lando, to speak to him, well nothing will stop him, not even his injury. as he was walking slightly, carlos used his leg to bring the wheelchair closer, he was already proud of oscar for moving further than the first time... oscar's eyes were getting blurry, but that didn't stop him, every time he felt like he was gonna fall, he held his breath, tried straightening his back, he remembered all those times he would train beyond his limits, but lando would be there for him to help him relax. That was his encouragement, carlos figured it out, it's lando, if it's anything related to lando, oscar will work towards it
As oscar approached the wheelchair, that was when carlos grabbed him, and helped him sit. He noticed oscar was sweating so hard, but he was happy, relieved. Carlos started jumping in happiness
CS: YESSSS YOU DID IT, I KNEW YOU CAN DO IT!!
oscar was happy that he did it as well, if all it took was lando, then he'd do anything at this point. He stared at carlos who was doing a mini dance, he was trying to cheer both oscar and encourage him.
CS: ohhh CABRONNN, i am veryy, VERYY, proud of you, lando would be cheering right now.
O: t....th...
CS: it's ok, relax a bit for now, i'll prepare you a pillow and blanket
oscar looked him highly confused, why would he need a pillow and blanket?
CS: Oh yes i forgot to tell you, the reason why i asked you to move on your own, was to give you a challenge, and see how far can you go for the boy you love, and as a result, i'll take you to spend one or two days next to lando
oscar's exhaustion suddenly disappeared, he looked at carlos, he was left mouth open, until realization fully hit him, he's going to see lando, his lando, THE lando, he's finally going to spend a night next to the one he loves
O: Y......Y......YEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
CS: THAT'S THE SPIRIT, BE PROUD OF YOURSELF, BE HAPPY, YOU'RE DOING IT, YOU CAN FINALLY BE THERE FOR HIM WOOOOO
both of them were happy, nurses outside heard their cheers, but that wasn't enough to stop them from celebrating as if they won a championship.
as soon as they reached lando's room, max f stared for some time before realising that oscar came.
M: heey there oscar, how are you, sorry i didn't check on you much lately
O: not a big deal, i received an agreement from my doctor that i was allowed to spend a day or two next to lando
M: that's great news!!! lando's mum needs some sleep and rest, she could use that
CS: you do realise so do you, ever since you came for blood donation, i don't think i've seen you leave, you look horrible, more than lando, you need that rest too
M: yea, well, i can't really leave his side, he's my best friend, when i was hurt last time, he was with me every day until i recovered, i can't leave him now. i do want to shower and change my clothes but my body is not allowing me to do so, i can't leave him
CS: at least go change your clothes, take a shower, do an activity anything
M: you're calling me nasty aren't you
CS: no Cabrón, of course not
M: i'm joking don't worry, well, i can go, but on a condition, you stay with oscar, because at the end of the day, oscar is still injured, i don't want him to be tired too.
CS: by stay with him, you mean spend a day or two here?
M: maybe a day, i will be back by tomorrow, i just need to change my clothes and take a long soothing shower
CS: i mean, i don't mind, as long as oscar gets the days he want to spend with lando
M: agreed then, i will be leaving now
Max stood up, he lost his balance for some time, approached lando, whispered near him don't die... please... one more day... wait for me... i'll be back... a tear escaped from him before leaving the room completely.
Meanwhile carlos prepared the spot where oscar will be chilling at on his wheelchair. Carlos made sure the wheelchair was adjustable in a way oscar can be comfortable next to lando. He then pushed him a bit closer to lando, so he can hold his hand.
While oscar was busy staring at the breathing, carlos left the room for some time, just to breathe a bit and leave oscar alone with lando for some time.
Though, that was not the real purpose on why he left. Carlos never entered lando's room before, always from outside, the moment he entered, he smelled how strong those medication, he saw how uncomfortable lando's position is, he couldn't stop blaming himself, even though he was convinced he had nothing to do, but his heart wouldn't stop bothering him.
He left the room, stood a bit further, and started crying hard, he hated the feeling, he hated how lando has to suffer, he hated how his last interaction with him was a fight, he hated every bit of it. he cried for like 10 minutes straight, before standing up again ( he was squatting in the corner ), and wiped his tears, he went to grab a coffee for him and oscar.
Once he came back, he saw oscar asleep next to lando, his head resting on the pillow he brought him, while his right hand was holding lando's tightly.
Carlos took a seat on the other side of lando, he rested his head on the bed, and couldn't feel himself sleeping. That's how tired he was. He spent almost a week from the hospital to lewis, to russell, back to the hospital. He was insisting on bringing the boys their justice and ensuring that oscar is safe, as per lando's indirect instructions. But now that oscar is safe... will he meet lando again? or will his interaction end on a fight... that was for another day, a thought for another time.
...
some time later...
man... my body is in huge pain... i can't feel anything else but the pain... i can hardly breathe.. what is this... am i alive...?... wait... am i actually alive.... my chest hurts so bad, every breath feels like i've been stabbed 100 times... man...
is oscar ok... last time i saw him.... i don't wanna see that dream again... please oscar... be ok....
wait a second... my hands, something... is touching it?... my hand am i... awake?...
can i open my eyes?... i can't... it feels like they've been shut with a lock...
but i swear... i can feel something... someone... it's another hand.... mum? carlos? max? or...
is it oscar?... oscar's hands are soft and warm... this one is soft, but a bit colder than usual...
please i hope it's oscar...
let me try to wake up... lando... you need to wake up... if you can't do this for yourself... do this for... oscar... osc...
here goes nothing...
PART 6:
it was around 4:35 am, the sun hasn't risen yet, the room was dark, only a dim light from the bathroom and the hallway of the ICU. Carlos was struggling to sleep, he was sleeping on a normal chair, it was quite uncomfortable, it reached a state where his back couldn't take it no more, he sat up straight and grabbed his phone, he remembered lewis and russell had a court day, he forgot to ask the doctor about oscar going to testify, but in his opinion, he thought maybe oscar can spend a day with lando before going to court, so he pulled his phone to text lewis.
Of course lewis wouldn't be awake at this hour, how stupid is he... he turned off the phone and tried to rest his eyes, Two seconds in, he got a notification, 'Joder', carlos grabbed his phone, and its.... lewis?
Carlos switched off his phone and laid back on his chair, he kept staring into the ceiling, the beeps of the machine were the only thing in his brain now, his mind kept thinking 'what if.... the beep stops... i don't want it to stop... damn carlos, focus, stay awake.... joder....', carlos' leg started vibrating up and down, until he stood up and went to the bathroom.
he stared at the mirror for some time, washed his face with cold water, he knew there were going to be tears coming, so might as well not worry oscar any further. He looked down at the sink, he felt the tears mix with the water on his face, dripping.. suddenly all his memories with lando flashed in front of his eyes, he held his head, covered his eyes, did everything but they wouldn't move, he rested his back on the wall, slowly falling on the ground, he was trying his best to not make out the worst scenario, what if he doesn't wake up? what if our last moments are the fight we had... fuck you carlos, eres estupido, muy estupido, idiota, joder carlos, joder, soy jodidamente estupido, joder.... Porque... porque... dime, Dios, ¿por qué él?.... Carlos sank his head in his thighs, he was crying hard now, with hiccups, he was going to lose his mind, until he remembered that oscar was out there, if he heard him cry, he'd be more worries, he has to be strong for oscar, he has to be there for him, not make it worse. He spent almost 5 or 10 minutes in the bathroom before leaving to find oscar awake and staring into the darkness of the room.
( Sorry if my spanish is bad, but what carlos said is '' you're stupid, very stupid, idiot, fuck you carlos, fuck, i'm fucking stupid, fuck... why... why.. tell me god why him?...'' )
O:....time...?
CS: almost 5 am, why are you awake?
O: i don't know... you woke me up?...
CS: i didn't? i was in the bathroom?
O: really? i could swear someone touched my hand
CS: lando...
O: what?
CS: your only available hand oscar is stuck to lando, are you sure you weren't hallucinating or delusional????
O: no... n.. no i wasn't
oscar got closer to lando's face, carlos opened the lamp, got closer to lando as well, just to see if his eyelids move or anything
CS: espera, espera, espera oscar, his eyes, are they moving????
O: i... i don't know...
CS: ahora cabron, i think you are hallucinating
they were losing hope... until... until oscar felt another squeeze, it was a light one, but noticeable, his heart started beating faster, as if it's about to explode, he looked directly into lando's eyes, he wanted to stand up, but couldn't so he tried his best to look at him directly. Oscar's eyes started tearing up, he was going to cry harder, a tear fell on lando's hand, which made his hand twitch
O: no, no i swear he's alive, he's awake, lando!! please!! please wake up
oscar brought lando's hand to his head, as if begging him to wake up...
then it came...
a loud gasp from carlos... as if he lost his words... oscar looked up, to stare at lando again... and he saw it... lando... his eyes twitched... then they opened a bit, slowly, but enough to keep oscar alive...
O: l...lando... you...you're awaakkeee
oscar started crying as he hugged lando's arm, he was crying so hard it can probably be heard outside... as for carlos, he was still in disbelief, he rushed outside the room to call for a doctor, he was going to lose it, he wanted to stay with lando, apologize instantly before he passes out again, but he wanted to make sure he was alive and well first, he even forgot about the meeting with lewis, forgot about how he was crying so hard 10 minutes or so ago...
Oscar looked at lando, who was fully exhausted, but still staring at oscar with sad expressions
O: t...thank goooddd... thank goddd... haaaaaa... *sniff*... i couldn't... i couldn't... i missed you... please... don't ever leave like this again... i'm sorry... i'm so sorry for not listening... i'm sorry for everything... i'm sorry that i didn't trust your guts.. i'm sorry that i didn't protect you.. i'm sorry that i didn't save you in time... i'm sorry... i'm sorry... please don't leave me again... i can't do this ever again... please... please lando... i will do anything to keep you alive... please i beg you... don't do it again.... i swear.. i will listen to evrey single feeling you have...
oscar's tears were falling uncontrollably on lando's hand.. a second later, he felt his hand get squeezed, he looked up immediately, to look at lando who was trying to nod, with tears in his eyes, oscar wasn't sure what he was supposed to mean, but he was glad, he was glad lando was alive...
a minute after, carlos came back with the doctors who rushed to get oscar away... oscar was forced to let go of lando's hand... they kept him away for a bit, just to test and finish the necessary checkups for lando before asking him questions..
oscar was waiting outside the room way too impatiently, he was about to lose it for a second and force his way in until he heard the door open for him on its own.
Doc: let's get you in, lando has been staring at the door the whole time, we tried asking him questions, but he wouldn't answer, we figured maybe in your presence he might
Oscar didn't bother to answer, he just rolled himself in (wheelchair), with carlos behind him hesitating to enter, feeling ashamed to speak to lando, thinking he'd probably hate him by now.
Doc: you too, come in
CS: it's ok, probably too many people
Doc: please i insist
carlos had no choice but to enter, you can feel his shame from afar, he was scared of lando's reaction once he sees him... but apparently that is for later, he wants to know if lando is okay now.
Doc: alright so, now that your partner and friend are here, we want to ask some questions, nod for yes, shake head or do nothing for no, all good?
lando nodded slowly, it was barely a nod, but noticeable, and that was enough for the doctor.
Doc: lovely, first, do you remember anything from before you came here - lando nodded slightly
Doc: all of it - lando tried shaking his head a bit, though he doubted it was noticeable so he remained still
Doc: alright, are you feeling a lot of pain at the moment - lando shook his head
Doc: alright that's a good sign, the medications and antibiotics you're on are effective, can you breathe easily - lando showed expressions of hesitation
Doc: i see, well, we want to keep the tube in your mouth for another day, until we are fully sure that you are capable of breathing on your own, and if you are aware, we have inserted a chest tube to your side to handle the air and blood in your right lung. It's a matter of days maybe weeks, until we remove it completely, your lung has shown improvement over the days, which is a great sign, if by tomorrow your lung is better, we will remove the ET and keep the chest tube. we would prefer if you avoid any movement. Do you have anything else you want to express or discomfort or anything? - lando shook his head
before the doctor left, oscar looked at the doctor and spoke lowly.
O: i...is he going to be okay
Doc: for now yes, he has shown a lot of improvement, but let's hope for the best when it comes to seizures, since the last one was a while ago i'd say, he should be okay, he might drift back to sleep now, it will quicken his recovery, if you wish to stay, that's fine by me, and apparently by him too, but please try not to make any noise or pressure that would alter his recovery
O: got it. thank you doctor...
As the doctors left, oscar got even closer to lando, he just wanted to stare at him for couple more minutes before he drifts back to sleep. it was a matter of seconds before lando tried to lift his hand.
O: please, rest, don't put any efforts...
lando ignored him, lifted his hand slightly to touch oscar's face, his eyes showed sadness, relief, a mix of every sentiment there is, before lowering it to oscar's shoulder, he looked like he was going to cry while being apologetic.
O: don't worry about me, i'm fine, you should take care of yourself, i promise i'm here to take care of you, i will handle everything, i'll be there for you, i promise, i won't do the same mistake i did, i will listen to every feeling you want to express, i swear, just... just don't... don't leave me again... please... i beg you...
lando shook his head a bit then lower his hand to hold oscar's. He tried to smile with his eyes, in a reassuring way for oscar...
Oscar started crying, tears running down his cheek... lando lifted his hand up again, with the little effort he had left, he wiped the tear that was on his cheek, then lowered his hand slowly, his eyes were fluttering, until they closed, he fell asleep again... Oscar was for once... finally happy and relieved... he let out the breath he's been holding since the beginning...
in the back was carlos, he couldn't help but excuse himself out of the room. Oscar noticed how sad carlos looked, one thing he knew, is that carlos told him while waiting for lando, that he was meeting lewis soon. He opened his phone, sent a quick message to lewis, turned off his phone and looked back at lando...
As carlos left the ICU, he went to grab some coffee, he was already tired and stressed... upon receiving it, he went ouside the hospital, sat on the benches in the garden, he kept staring at his coffee... lost in his own thoughts, will he forgive me... i'm glad he's alive... but how will i face him... i was harsh on him... how will i be able to fucking face him... fuck it carlos... joder... he started panicking a bit, but internally and silently... until he felt a hand on his shoulder. His reflexes kicked in, and looked quickly at the person, before realising who it is.
LH: relax, i won't hurt you haha, tell me, why you alone?
CS: oh lewis, you scared me, i uh... i wanted to leave oscar to have some you know, private moment with lando
LH: huh? did he wake up?
CS: for some time, now he's asleep though, something about recovery
LH: yea, patients are required to sleep for faster recovery
CS: yea... want coffee?
LH: no thanks, had one already, came to check on you, and you know, chill with you until something else happens, you know
CS: Why are you acting so weird
LH: nothing much, i just came to make sure you're okay,
CS: i see... i'm okay if that's what's bothering you
LH: carlos.... you know that i am aware of your mental state
CS: trust me i'm fine
LH: carlos... your eyes are literally red, i know what this is about...
CS: no you don't, you definitely don't, please let's not get further with this, i just want to breathe a bit, and rest my eyes
LH: it's may, Miami, and we're entering June, the heat is NOT for breathing, whose face are you lying at
CS: please... lewis, i really don't want to argue
LH: i'm not arguing, i'm trying to help, if this is related to lando i'd understand, but i'm trying to help here, you gotta tell me so i can-
CS: I SAID NO CABRON, LEAVE IT
lewis stared at carlos for some time... usually someone who got yelled at that much, they'd leave... that was someone... not lewis... lewis sat down next to carlos who was now looking down while resting his elbows on his thighs, he was for sure not okay, he looked like he'd cry any moment now...
LH: you had a fight with didn't you
CS:...
LH: i see
lewis put his hand on carlos' back and started rubbing, and that was when carlos couldn't hold it in no more, he exploded with tears, silent ones...
LH: it gets better i swear... I've known lando for a long time, he's not a person who'd stay mad at anyone, especially you, if you think he'd be mad then you are the one who is mad, not him, you're mad at yourself, him? no, he'll never be mad at anyone, even when he was a rookie, he was depressed, hella depressed, i used to catch him panicking, shaking, and i reached a state i was afraid he'd kill himself, or hurt himself, i yelled at him once, that didn't fix anything, but when i went to apologize he told me he'd forgotten about it, and that one rule he lives by in his whole life, that he never holds grudges, so trust me, if he wasn't mad at me, for yelling at him during his lowest point, he wouldn't be mad at you, his older brother, the one who genuinely embraced him with a big hug when no one else was looking at his direction...
Carlos stared at lewis with red eyes...
LH: if he is awake, i'd say, you can apologize, but trust me, don't be afraid... it'll be okay
CS:... he has a breathing tube in his mouth... he can't talk...
LH: then wait for him, show him that you're there for him without speaking, tell him what he missed, try to help as much as possible, even though i'm positive you did that part of helping, you've been with Oscar since he woke up, you assisted him, did everything you can, lando would literally jump out of happiness if he hears that, that his love was safe and taken care of by his brother...
Carlos stared at him longer before sitting straight and chugging the black coffee
LH: easy there mate on the black coffee
CS: if i smoke i'd be on my third packet today... and i don't, so coffee it is
LH: listen, how about you go home and relax, i'm pretty sure you need it
CS: it's not really about being tired physically lewis, i'm tired mentally, i want to hug lando, bring him closer to me, i just want to drop on my knees and apologize, i just.. want him to be safe
LH: he's safe no? he woke up?
CS: yea... i haven't told anyone this, but the doctor pulled me aside and told me that waking up is not necessarily a good sign, he is prone to collapsing at any time, having an extreme seizure is also possible, and they're monitoring him, one good thing he said is that most likely tomorrow they will remove the breathing tube, as for the chest tube they still don't know...
LH: i see, does Oscar know
CS: i haven't told him yet, i don't want him to freak out even more
LH: but if something happens to lando, don't you think he'd blame you? out of anger, sorrow, grief over losing someone he loves? and eventually he'll go back to blaming himself?
CS: thought about that too, i just want him to have his two days at peace with lando, before i tell him
LH: i see, you're really a good brother now aren't you
CS: if you think so i guess...
LH: come on now smile a bit, let me take you to a good restaurant for breakfast, you deserve it
CS: i don't feel like eating really lewis
LH: they have Spanish food
CS:...
LH: are you sure you're not hungry now, a taste of the fancy morning in Barcelona
CS: i'm from madrid
LH: gotcha, so what do you say
CS: alright... let me check on Oscar first, want to come?
LH: of course, haven't seen that boy in a long while
Carlos stood up and started walking inside the hospital, lewis was right behind him, looking at the sad corridors, hearing some families crying over their loved ones dying, he knew he hated hospitals. he had flashbacks regarding many drivers dying, getting severely injured, and so on... He HATED hospital...
it took them around 3 minutes until they reached the ICU, lewis stared at carlos for some time
LH: so are you going in with me
CS: yes, the thing is only two must be inside, only exception was yesterday when we forced max fewtrell to go rest, but mostly only two people allowed in lando's room, so walk a bit straight, pass two room, and turn right, first one on your right, it has a window, you can see Oscar sitting there, and also lando's name is written on the door..
lewis went inside the ICU, he kept following what carlos told him.. a matter of 10 seconds, he found a room, not that far, he stared from the window, Oscar was sleeping on lando's bed while holding his hand, meanwhile lando looked peaceful, though the image of the many machines disturbed him a bit, he didn't care though, why should he be disturbed when it's lando who's hooked up on them.
Lewis got in the room, he tried to be as silent as possible, all he wanted was to check on lando and Oscar...
he barely made noise, though his existence was enough to wake Oscar up...
O: hmm.?
LH: ah sorry mate, didn't mean to wake you up
O: no... no.. i wasn't fully asleep
LH: are you sure? you sounded quite asleep to me haha, tell me how are you feeling
O: i'm fine, honestly my problem is my shoulder, this shit is really irritating, i can't move my hand, i wanted to hug lando...
LH: ah so that's why it's irritating you
O: pretty much, the shooter couldn't have hit another limb, why my arm mate
LH: haha, i see, well how about your abdomen, i'm pretty sure you were hurt there too no?
O: yea, and i'm apparently learning how to walk again... that sucks too
LH: how far are you
O: i'm not pregnant, i said i barely can walk
LH: has the shooter shot your braincells away too?
O: Apparently so, i stared at the food for too long i forgot how to eat, spoiler alert, it tastes like a sponge, wouldn't recommend
LH: i meant with the walking thing
O: i walked once, barely 1 meter, really hard, it felt like i was going to pass out, the first time though, that was hell, couldn't even stay still
LH: so now you still can't walk
O: yea... i believe so
LH: ha, weak hehe
O: next time i'll shoot you, and see how you handle it, so pick a place
LH: anywhere away from my tattoos, and abs, they're too gorgeous
O: so nowhere basically
LH: judgmental much?
O: you can say so...
LH: man i missed you both
O: i missed him too
LH: you're literally next to him
O: verbally idiot, i miss his voice
LH: i get you... well. he'll be fine hopefully, heard from carlos that he woke up
O: yea, for some time, before going back to sleep, let's hope they remove his tube today not tomorrow, i really don't want to wait until tomorrow to speak to him
LH: let him recover dude, hold your lips for a bit
O: are you calling ME gay?
LH: directly? no, indirectly? absolutely
O: you literally dated Britney
LH: spears?
O: no, Rosberg
LH:...
O: exactly now let me have my moments with my boyfriend
LH: have you confessed to him yet?
O: no but based on his mum, carlos, and max, he is head over heels for me, and honestly so am i, i'm planning on telling him when he wakes up
LH: really...? a hospital confession, a very good idea for a first date, go get it i guess i'm cheering for you, team landoscar all the way, don't forget to get married, and please let me be the one to marry you both
O: of course, i'd say my groomsmen would be max, albon, logan, and uh who else?
LH: me man??
O: aren't you the one marrying us? dude pick a role
LH: fine, you're mean
O: but first, i want to make sure he's gonna be fine...
LH: trust me he will, i promise
O: promise? the hell will you do? have some supernatural power and bring him back to life?
LH: of course not, but i'm on my way now to get you and your beloved justice you ignorant fuck
O: haha, alright, you don't need me right?
LH: not yet, but if the judge requires your presence i will get you to attend
O: alright, that sounds fair
LH: but seriously dude, we missed you, no one racing, everyone is boycotting
O: if it means you being safe then it's great...
LH: some drivers are protesting this boycott but they aren't arguing much, they just thought that we should continue without you, but no one agreed with them, only two drivers
O: can i know who?
LH: absolutely. not
O: wow, okay rude
LH: i'm trying to not cause any issues, you already want to kill someone, i do not wish for two others to die too
O: fine, you got it sir
LH: thank you Oscar, anyways, i just wanted to check on you, i'm glad you're okay, you know my number, contact me if you need me
O: wait
LH: hm?
O: anything you caught regarding lewis?
LH: ah so apparently, he got in a fight with lando prior to the incid-
O: i am aware..
LH: yea, that is why he wasn't okay
O: that bastard... he really thinks lando will hate him? HIM out of everyone? literally after the fight lando didn't want to tell me he fought with him, because he knew that it's not a big issue, i'll talk to lando when he wakes up
LH: let's not pressure him
of course, lando was listening to the whole conversation, he was incapable of waking up though, he didn't want to startle them so he waited until lewis was out...
LH: Alright, i'll be leaving now.... goodbye Oscar, take care of yourself and lando please
O: on it, you take care, and update me please
as soon as lewis left, he met with carlos outside the ICU. Carlos looked tired, but as soon as he saw lewis he went directly to him with some hope written on his face...
CS: any news?
LH: i just visited, not like the whole world will change in a matter of minutes, chill carlos, lando will be okay, and he won't hate you, i promise you
CS: i don't know, my mind is not leaving me alone
LH: Oscar probably needs you, and so will lando, don't ruin yourself with overthinking, it'll be fine lad...
CS: .... fine... are you leaving ?
LH: yea, it's getting late for the court, i need to be there soon... so, take care mate, don't hurt yourself please
CS: got it lewis, take care...
as soon as lewis left, carlos went back inside to lando's room, he found Oscar staring at lando rather than sleeping, he thought a bit to himself? why is he awake? i thought he'd sleep to pass the time to speak with lando no?
CS: cabron, you good? why are you awake?
O: oh nothing much, was speaking with lewis, a good chat
CS: nothing new regarding lando?? he hasn't woken up again?
O: of course not, it's like 6:30 am right now, he slept around 5:30 or maybe before i forgot the exact time, one hour is not enough for recovery
CS: fair enough
O: listen...
CS: i knew lewis couldn't keep anything to himself
O: wha-? i haven't even finished speaking
CS: i know what you're going to say, so i'm gonna cut it short for you, i'm fine, i'm okay, i'm convinced lando isn't mad at me, i just can't keep myself from thinking, what i did was shitty, i am feeling so shitty i can't even look him in the eye, i am just incapable of accepting that he'll forgive me, all i'm wishing for is him to wake up alive, well, and safe especially, i will drop on my knees and apologize if needed, but it's not something that i can control i swear Oscar, it's more than that, and you know it most, when you were having those thoughts, now double them and see how it feels like, that's me now basi- i don't want to argue again, please Oscar, let it be
O: i was going to tell you that lewis was going to court... what the hell?? nah mate you are NOT okay, come sit down let's talk...
CS: ....
O: Come on? sit down, let me tell you about what lando told me after your fight...
CS: he told you something?
O: yea, i remembered it when lewis came for some reasons
CS: yea... some reasons... tell me
O: he didn't directly tell me that he had a fight with you, but he did tell me that he fought with someone, and he doesn't know how to fix it, that moment i told him that best way to fix it is to apologize to the person if he's at fault, he told me that he was, but he doesn't know how to apologize, i tried telling him that it comes with time, if he is not ready yet, he can try the next day... and apparently the next day didn't really come...
CS: so... you're telling me... that he...
O: yup, he was the one who blamed himself, he never thought of it as a YOU fault, so don't worry carlos, if anything, he'll be the one trying to apologize, not you...
CS: i see... thanks for telling me, doesn't change much in how shitty i feel, but it will lessen the thoughts for some time until he wakes up...
O: you should go to sleep, go home, change and rest
CS: i'm waiting for fewtrell
O: it's the ICU carlos, nurses and doctors sense when a patient is in danger, and i'm here, i'm not tired, i'll just stare into this lovely man's lashes and wait for his awakening until max comes
CS: i see... are you sure you'll be okay
O: of course, now come on you Spaniard, go sleep, have your home sweet home moment, rest and come back later at night or something, maybe by that time lando would be awake
CS: Alright, i'll see you then, later Oscar
upon leaving, Oscar stared a bit at the window before turning back to look at lando, and that's when he saw it... lando was awake the whole time, listening to their conversation... he used the effort he had to lift his hand in a "shh" gesture while smiling, the message is basically ' don't tell him i was awake '
O: you're one silly guy, i love you...
lando smiled at Oscar, then lowered his hands. Oscar's eyes softened at the eyes of lando.
O: you know... you're really the prettiest guy i know
lando raised an eyebrow a bit giving him a message of oh really?
O: oh of course, have you seen yourself in the mirror you look like an angel, man... i really didn't think i'd want to confess to the man i love in a hospital, but uh, would you accept to be my boyfriend? i'm sorry, wait let me repeat, shit, this is too casual, too uh... informal, wait rewind, repeat, pretend nothing was said
Lando smiled with his eyes, he knew his answer, his answer was ready
O: ok, ok ok ok ok, Oscar, breathe in, breathe out... alright... *inhale *, Lando Norris * Oscar held lando's hand with his available one* do you, accept me, Oscar jack piastri, to be your boyfriend? yes or yes...
lando was holding a laugh, unfortunately for him, the tube was occupying his mouth, he wanted to laugh. He stared directly into Oscar's eyes, looked up, and pretended to be thinking
O: hey hey hey that's illegal, the answer should be either yes or yes, you're not answering !
Lando stared at him, smiled with his eyes (try smiling while covering your mouth, you'll understand what smiling with his eyes means <3 for those who don't know).
O: ahem, sooo, do you accept to be my boyfriend? after you're discharged promise to take you wherever you want, ahem, a pizza place
lando looked at him, then nodded, excitedly for someone who is barely moving.
O: WOOHOOO- shi- ouch...
Oscar tried jumping in excitement, but ended up wincing due to the pain in his shoulder. He instantly looked at lando who was staring at him in concern...
O: ah ah ah don't worry, i'm fine, don't worry about me.. let me tell you, wait a second- have you been hearing all of my conversations for a long time?
lando nodded in a calm way
O: i see, so you were SPYING on us
lando stared at him, raised an eyebrow, and Oscar understood immediately, you're the one in my room mate
O: okay okay mister, wait when we get married
when? as in it's going to happen?
O: i wanna know, would you be called, lando norris-piastri, or lando piastri? and would i be called Oscar piastri- Norris? or just Oscar Norris? and when racing our last names switch, hmmm
oscar looked at lando's face, which was so red, blushing so hard his face looked hot
O: ah- did i say something wrong??? are you okay??? do i need to call the doctor??? DO-
before he called a doctor, he felt his hand getting squeezed
O: a- you don't want the doctor? - lando shook his head
O: but you're red
Lando stared at Oscar dumbfoundedly, are you an idiot
O: ay, no judging here... wait.. are you BLUSHING !!! you're telling me, THE lando Norris is blushing at what I, OSCAR JACK PIASTRI SAID????
lando looked down a bit, in an embarrassed way... Oscar stared at him then turned red too
O: i mean... you chose to be my boyfriend, that means you get to be my husband too you know...
lando stared at Oscar, his eyes shining, he was holding his hand the whole time... he smiled a bit
O: it's time you go back to sleep, but i don't want you to sleep, but you NEED to sleep, ugh this is unfair
lando tried to wave his head left and right, basically saying hmm you decide
O: no no, you should sleep, if you don't sleep, you won't recover fast, i need you to recover fast, the pizza place is waiting for us
lando almost laughed, he squeezed his hand tightly, then started closing his eyes...
O: goodnight my beloved, have sweet dreams....
Oscar stared at lando for a bit, before drifting into sleep himself...
around 7:58 am, almost 8, Oscar received a text message, it was from lewis? why was lewis texting him?? has he gone to court yet?
new message
Oscar stared at the message for some time, before inhaling slowly and exhaling slowly...
OP81 is Typing...
Oscar stared at the phone, turned off and tossed it away, then looked at lando and whispered to himself... i promise lando... he will not live to see another day, either in jail, or 6 feet under....
PART 7
9 am has arrived, lando is sleeping peacefully, machine beeping, his gorgeously long lashes fluttering, left hand held tightly by Oscar's right hand. Oscar... Oscar was staring non stop at his lashes... his ears focusing with his breathing patterns and the beeps of his heart machine.. all of this, while paying attention to his phone in case of any notification from lewis regarding the judge's decision...
10 minutes later, the phone rang, Oscar's face shifted from relieved to anxious in less than a second... at first he thought it was lewis who texted him, probably concerning the case, has he failed to get him the sentence? is this it for lando? is that fuck ass of a person going to get his real sentence shortened... i swear to god if anything goes wrong i'll go there myself, i will fucking fu- wait... this isn't lewis? this is max?
what is wrong with him? why is he spamming me like that?
oh... no wonder he was spamming, apparently he called me many times.... 10??? 10 times max??? really?? and 15 from Charles phone...
Oscar grabbed his phone, and started typing...
Oscar set his phone aside... smiled a bit at the view of lando laying in front of him, peacefully breathing... until he turned around and had a glimpse of fewtrell standing outside waiting for something. He wasn't sure if he was scared? or perhaps afraid he'd annoy him?
O: max?
Oscar said, not loud, not whispering, just enough for max to hear him. Max f stared at Oscar then went inside, he indeed looked way better than before, clean clothes, neat appearance, and less eye bags
M: oh um, hey Oscar...
O: cheer up mate, why are you anxious
M: oh um, nothing much just, i feel relaxed yet stressed about lando
O: oh... have you seen his mum by the way?
M: yea, i brought her with me, went to grab a coffee, what about your mom
O: i left her with miss cisca, i don't know, she probably went home to sleep, she hasn't slept as well, but i'll text her just in case, but before that i'm gonna check something with the nurse, then i'm gonna have to speak with you and miss cisca, if that's ok
M: oh my god... is... is lando ok??? oh my god Oscar.. please, i was gone for less than 24 hours please
O: all good don't worry, actually it's good news i just need to speak with a nurse first
M: NURSE!!! OVER HERE !!!
Oscar was startled by the sudden shout of fewtrell... he stared at him for a good minute, before the nurses came in as fast as possible
Nrs: is everything okay???
O: well... i didn't want to startle you or scare you everything in fine, lando is having no visitors at the moment, and i will be speaking with max and lando's mother so, if possible, can you please stay with him to maintain his safety ?
Nrs: oh... yea yea absolutely dear, take your time...
Max took over Oscar's wheelchair and started rolling him towards the cafe where cisca was.
M: sooo, what is this great news?
O: i would love if his mum hears it too
M: i get it, also, why did carlos leave
O: don't contact him, he is mentally drained, he needs his rest like you did
M: mate i think you're the only one who needs rest
O: what do you mean? I've been sleeping as i should? is there an issue?
M: i don't know? aren't you supposed to be the one resting? you are hurt no?
O: all good, i might be discharged this week, mostly end of the week
M: that's great new!! ah, here's cisca, MISS CISCA OVER HERE!!
O: what is wrong with you and shouting???
M: i'm sorry, the sleeping really helped me, some nightmares but it helped
Cisca saw them from afar, a boy standing with his fresh hair, neat white t shirt and black jeans, and a boy on the wheelchair with an arm swathe, clean hospital shirt and hospital trousers... She waved at them from afar then approached... Oscar saw her emotions, well, yes she rested, yes his mum helped stay with her, but she was still affected, god how excited he is to see her smile, oh yea, and to tell her that her son will get married after he's discharged, man, he is so excited, but he can't bombard her with the information yet.
as she reached him, she kneeled down to hug Oscar
C: ohhhhh, oscy...
oscy.... a nickname given by lando... man he missed his voice...
C: i'm glad you're doing better, how are you dear
O: apparently i'm learning how to move again, managed to step and walk a bit, but still need assistance
M: oh my god mate that's great news!!!
O: yea, hurts like shit, but still, acceptable, can't wait to finally start walking man...
C: i'm glad dear, tell me, have you been discharged from the ICU yet?
O: yup!! didn't mum tell you?
C: honestly we just talked more about the country, your pasts, and other women topics, but not really about you, last thing she told me yesterday is that she will be coming today to check on you but later...
O: that's great, missed my mum, lando more, but don't tell her
C: don't worry haha
M: miss cisca, Oscar has news to us apparently, would you like to hear
C: about lando??
O: yea, i spent a night next to him, the hospital finally allowed me, and carlos facilitated for me, i'm grateful for him
C: oh that boy, lando loves him so much, he always tells me how he treats him better than his own blood brother haha
O: carlos loves lando too, we call them the carlando dynamic on the grid, they're pretty close
C: how is he?
O: he went back home to rest, he has been doing like shit and hiding it from us, he needed some help
C: oh poor boy, i will check on him if you want later
O: no need to complicate it for yourself, i have lewis checking on him regularly
C: ahh, that's great then. Tell me, what are the news
O: alright, so, um, god this is exciting, i don't know how to start, ok hmmm
M: mate, start from the most exciting one
O: that lando and i are getting married after he's better, or that he woke up from his coma?
C & M:.... w...wha....
Oscar smiled so brightly it lightened up the mood
C: you mean.... y-y-y-y-you mean... lando.... my son... he... he woke up??????
O: mhm, he woke up twice, once at 4 am, and the second around 7 am or before, i forgot the time...but yea, he woke up, the nurses said he has shown improvement !!! they will most likely remove the mouth tube that he has tomorrow
M: mate, you're not joking right?????
O: nope, i wouldn't joke about something so serious
C: a-a-a-a-and have you, um spoken to him and he responded
O: as i said, he still has his mouth tube
M: then how did you get married
O: we haven't?? i said we will after he's better, and when i spoke, he mostly responded with a head shake, nod, or squeeze my hand
M: is he awake now???
O: how would i know, i'm with you, but mostly the nurses said that he should rest, that's why he's sleeping more
once Oscar finished speaking, cisca looked at max, max looked at cisca, then it came... tears of joy, they jumped in happiness
C & M: EEYYEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!
they yelled so loud the entire cafeteria heard them, cisca hugged max so tightly crying into his shoulders, max looked up, and started thanking god, both were drenched in emotions, Oscar was looking at them with a wide smile written on his face, he himself was happy, god lando... you don't understand how much people appreciate you, god, no wonder i want to marry you so bad, you idiot, you better be ready... no death thing anymore please....
Max then turned to Oscar, eyes were still in tears, he was trying to say something, nothing came out, he kept waving his hands, trying to breathe, searching for words or any alphabetical letter to state out loud, but nothing came out
O: relax mate, it's alright, take a deep breath, we'll go to lando, maybe you'll find something to say
max finally nodded, smiled wider before staring back at cisca who was now holding her head from the amount of information that hit her. Oscar looked at her with a soft smile, approached her, stared into her eyes, held both her hands, his gaze softened, by the end of the day, she was a mother, no one would worry for you other than your own mother (i apologize to anyone that's going through parental issues, i hope it gets better for you <3), her son is the reason many people have made it alive in life, have succeeded, have achieved goals and many other points of their lives, she must be so proud of him, oh Oscar, how lucky you are.
Oscar looked at her for a good minute then spoke, in a comforting way, to soothe her...
O: he is alright, alive, and well, let's go check on him, what do you think?
the woman nodded slightly then smiled back at him, she removed her glasses that were now full of tears, she herself couldn't believe it, her son? her sunshine, her everything, he is alive, how can one not be happy... She held onto the wheelchair, sped up a bit, not running as that'll startle Oscar and might hurt him, max was right beside her going as fast as he should... Oscar stared around him, the people disappearing around him in a blurred motion, he stared ahead, he thought to himself, oh to be loved like Lando is.... i miss my mum, ahhh, i need to text her and meet up with her, at least for a bit.
Oscar had been deep into his thoughts, forgetting the fact that he reached the ICU, already entered, and is now in front of lando's room, though, one thing that confused him, why weren't Cisca and max inside yet?? they were showing confused faces? maybe disgusted? worried? anxious? what is going on?
Oscar tried to assist himself as much as possible, to stand up even for one second, to see what was going on, max couldn't help but notice him trying to stand up, he rushed to his side, held onto his right arm, and lightly scolded him, calling what he was doing reckless, and that he was still injured. Of course, Oscar did not care, when it came to Lando he'd kill the entire humanity if needed, for that smile, for that soft gaze, those eyes, oh those eyes, the greyish, greenish, blueish eyes, it was a mix of everything, it was just... perfection... his lashes, girls are probably jealous of his lashes, they probably wish to have them, his curls, oh his curls, the softest Oscar has even touched, a story goes back to when they were working a bit late in McLaren headquarter, dealing with some paperwork, PR work, etc... and they had to stay awake until 3 am getting the work done, and around 1 am or 1:30, Lando was sitting on the couch next to Oscar, before drifting to sleep, of course, staring at those tired eyes, Oscar couldn't bare to wake him up, he wanted him to rest, to sleep, he brought him closer, made sure he laid comfortably on his lap, it was 20 minutes into his sleep, before Lando started showing expressions of distress, a nightmare? or just a bad dream? Oscar didn't know at that time, what HE knew is that he can help him relax, one thing he remembered from those challenge videos they do with the team, is that Lando loved physical touch, he LOVED when someone played with his hair, he spent almost 2 hours telling him about how his mum used to play with his hair when he was a kid, that she would sing him the song 'Fernando' by ABBA and change it to 'For Lando' just to help him sleep, rest, have memories, thus, Oscar's first reaction, first instinct, what to play with his curls, and god, they were so soft, like SO soft, he loved every touch, even though Oscar was not the type to like physical touch, but this time, it felt like eternity for him, like heaven, he loved every single second of it, of course, it didn't last long as lando woke up 30 minutes later quite fuzzy, confused, and embarrassed that he fell asleep on Oscar's lap.... That was what flashed in his mind, before staring into the window, ignoring every single scold, lecture, word that max had said, he just, stared into lando, he was ok, well, he seemed okay, the nurses were surrounding him, and at least two doctors were there, he wasn't having a seizure, from what he was seeing, they were removing the mouth tube.... wait? didn't they say they'll leave it until tomorrow?? what if something happens, what if, what if he has another seizure, he fails to breathe, he, he... That's when it hit him, a flashback, something has flashed in front of him, reminded him of something he wished he could forget...Oscar.... Osc..ar.... OSCAR!!!
C: OSCAR? dear, oh god, you okay??
it took cisca, lando's mum, to speak, for Oscar to be brought back to reality, he found himself sweating a bit, his legs almost giving up on him, he sat down, max held him tightly, helped him, stared at him, Oscar, god, he looked like he has just seen the peak of horrors, what was it that flashed right in front of his eyes... Oscar looked down a bit, he was trying to collect his thoughts... before cisca spoke again...
C: Oscar dear, are you alright?? don't worry about lando they're just taking out the breathing tube, honey, look at me, you're thinking out loud, look at me please
Oscar looked up, his eyes met with hers, he was already deep into his thoughts, he forgot how tired and deep cisca already is in her very own thoughts, he shouldn't be interrupting her, or distracting her, or adding to her own fire... stupid Oscar... you can't do that to this woman... she's the sweetest, you can't just dump all your thoughts on her, refuse, Oscar refuse....
O: i-it's alright, just some, um, bad thoughts
C: please don't feel ashamed, shy or embarrassed to tell me, if something is bothering you, you went through a lot as well, you deserve to be taken care of too, i can call Nicole if you want
O: n-no no, let her rest, she'll arrive later, it's nothing important trust me, i'm okay, let's wait for lando, he should be fine...
Cisca stared at Oscar, before nodding and going back to watching lando... of course, what just happened wasn't going to pass by like that very easily, in fact, max fewtrell, was not dumb, after all the stories he had to hear from lando regarding Oscar, he himself developed a software system in his very own brain that tells him when something is not right with Oscar, of course, aside from the fact that he was his teammate at some point...
Max grabbed Oscar's wheelchair and rolled him a bit further from cisca, he looked at he, informed her that Oscar needed some air and that he'll be taking him for some fresh air, of course, that was a lie, though he wanted to do that, he left the ICU for some time, and exited the hospital, going for the garden... Oscar was still deep into his thoughts he hadn't even noticed that max was taking him somewhere, until he stood in front of him, kneeled down so their eyes met, and snapped his finger twice, as a way to bring him back to real life...
M: Oscar, wake up, you're thinking loudly, i can hear, see and smell your thoughts, focus with me
Oscar stared at max for some time before looking around, noticing that the surrounding does not meet what he was lastly seeing, confusion filled his face, he looked back at max, then opened his mouth to speak, before max interrupted him.
O: i-
M: listen, i know that was happened earlier was not some thoughts, it wasn't something to ignore.... Remember the day you came to lando's room for the first time, you were crying, bawling your eyes out, and all of that, i was concerned, worried for you, i didn't know how to help, i knew deep down you felt bad, you felt guilty, you felt things none of us had felt, not even cisca... but back then, it wasn't about the feelings alone, something, something triggered you, the only way i figured it out, i asked hattie about it, she said you woke up screaming lando's name, you were crying, you were seeking air, while muttering his name, and apologizing to your mum, you thought he was dead, before you even got to know where he was.... it wasn't just about guilt Oscar... you had a vision... you saw something... so tell me... please... i'm trying to help... i understand you probably avoided telling cisca knowing how worried she'd get, and possibly affect her too, but me? i'm lando's best friend, you are his boyfriend, literally, you are closer to him, both of us are feeling guilt, sadness, sorrow, and agony, and at some point i'm pretty sure you grieved, even though he was still alive, so tell me, i want to help, and i want to know what have you seen, because i can assure you, and i will bet all my money, that what terrified today, has relations to that vision, or dream or however you want to describe it...
Oscar stared at max, like, just blankly stared, max wasn't wrong, something was definitely not right with Oscar, and it had relations to that dream, Oscar couldn't help but stay shocked for 1 minute straight, eyes wide, staring into max's eyes, he... he figured me.... he figured me out.... he knows... no Oscar... don't you dare dump your fucking shit on him too.. same as cisca... he is probably deep in his thou-
M: i have set my thoughts aside, my thoughts are not as bad as yours, if that's what you're thinking...
Oscar was even more baffled, he couldn't get a single word out of his mouth
M: Oscar... speak...
Oscar sighed, he admitted loss, defeat, in front of max, he knew no matter how stubborn he'd get, by the end of this conversation max will figure it out...
O: alright, do you want me to start with the dream, or just in general
M: whatever suits you better
O: alright, that moment, i was still in the beginning of my suffering, physical suffering, i was in huge pain, and the self blaming thing that rushed through my mind didn't help, worsened my mental state, and therefore defected on my overall state... I had this dream, i was um, out of the hospital? i was wearing one of my regular shirts, i think it was one that lando gave me as a gift back in 2024, and honestly i'm not the type to switch shirts that often or buy new things, i was wearing it, for some reasons, even though it was a dream, it had lando's strong cologne, i smelled it, it felt like comfort, like home, even if i was in the worst pain you can imagine, that little shirt gave me a sense of soothing, i looked around, i was still wearing this shitty arm cover, i was standing perfectly? so i assume the dream took place a while after i recovered from the hospital, i would assume a month? or a bit more in total since the incident, i looked around, the surroundings were exactly the same, how did i know, i hadn't visited lando at the time, so how was it possible for me to know the same room, same area, same everything, it was odd for me, i kept looking around, i saw you, you were in disbelief, tears running down your cheeks, i was confused, as i was sure i saw lando in there, i looked behind you, it was cisca, embraced tightly by adams, lando's father, both were crying so loud it felt, sounded so real, at that moment, i thought to myself, something must've happened, that was the exact moment, i turned around, stared at the glass in front of me, at first, considering it was a dream, i barely saw anything at first, it was blurry, i saw nothing but white dim lights, it wasn't long before i started seeing clearly, i saw not one, not two, but 5 doctors, and nurses surrounding lando, i thought it was some sort of surgery, i mean, expected reaction from everyone if it's a surgery, but then i saw it....
Oscar paused for some time, he winced, his eyes shut off completely, as if he wants to get rid of this dark memory
M: it's alright, you can-
O: you deserve to know... it's just, i hate it, and i do not want to see it happen, not think of it, but now that i'm telling it, maybe i'll feel better...
M: your call...
Oscar inhaled a deep breath in, then exhaled slowly, before continuing his dream.
O: lando's face wasn't apparent to me, all i saw was part of his legs, hidden beneath the blanket, and his hand... his left hand, holding onto the side handles of the bed, he was holding them so tightly, i saw it, it was.... too tight, i thought it might break, i didn't know, was it a seizure, was it a heart attack, i didn't know anything, i looked at his whole body, until mine was the one to tense, his body was shaking uncontrollably, his hands tightening around the handles even more, doctors rushing here and there, nurses doing everything they could... until... i stared at the heart machine, up and down... messy... before it went flat... just.. flat... lando's hand relaxed... let go of the handles, fell on the bed, his legs gave out.... doctors pulled defibrillators, they were preparing, once, twice, thrice, over and over, to give him shocks, in hope to bring him back.... but... nothing worked.... and that was the last thing i saw... just... lando's weak hands... that finally found peace... before nurses dropped on the floor crying... doctors were breathing heavily, one of them covered him in a white blanket... i'm sure... he was cold.. ye?... he was probably cold that's why... his mum and dad were on the floor crying so hard... their voices... still stuck in my mind... you... you weren't even fully conscious, your mind was just focusing on lando... oh lando... all i saw was his curls, and god... that was... that was when it hit me.... he was dead... he was dead.... because of who? because of me... i caused this... if i just listened to him...if only... i listened to him.... none of that would've happened....
Oscar looked down, tears formed around his eyes... they were shining from afar, the sunlight reflecting on them... looking like diamonds... he started crying so hard...
O: and... and i just... i don't want that to happen.... earlier when i saw that many doctors, my mind didn't register anything else... it just.. played back that memory... it just.... fuck.. i don't wanna remember it.... it's just... i'm scared... i'm scared of losing him, i don't want to leave him, i don't want him to leave me ever again...
Max stared into Oscar's crystal eyes, he was deep into crying, he wasn't even saying anything clear anymore... max was hurt... max himself was hurt in his place... how far would someone love you... to the point they suffer mentally and physically... how much grief had Oscar carried all this time, when lando wasn't even dead... Oscar suffered the most, even more than lando's mum... Oscar had gone through the same incident as lando, suffered physically, undergone surgeries, medications, and pain over and over... and hasn't mentioned it once in his complains... his sole complain was that he was afraid of losing the one he loved... the one he wished he could go back in time to tell that he loved him dearly, appreciated him, cherished every single moment he had... god, the boy even has the shirt lando gifted him in 2024, and it's 2026, Oscar still remembers every detail of the fucking shirt.... how much had this boy carried, something not even lando would forgive himself for... god... the boy's main issue, main complain... was that lando might not open his eyes again... he might not speak to him.. might not be able to witness his childish smile, his persona... his... everything... that was Oscar to you... Oscar didn't care much about anything else... only certain things he loved... and lando? was for sure one of these things... Oscar loved lando dearly... he had been a fan of him since childhood, he idolized him, and the moment he began working with him, his gaze had never left the ocean grey eyes of his... Oscar had loved every single piece, every single part of lando, to the point he memorized many concepts, many values, many cons, pros, every, single, thing, that had relation to lando was imprinted in Oscar's mind. that's how love worked... Oscar didn't just love lando, he was ready to go back in time, fight in wars, starts wars, end humanity, just for the sake of the boy he loved... and in a single event, where he thought he'd probably propose, confess, anything, he only got to enjoy few minutes of the person he admired, before everything went down the hill, for his lover, and even for him... and ever since that, Oscar hadn't stopped blaming himself, he ate himself with blaming, guilt took over his blood, self hatred was the main thing that colonized his brain... and yup, that's what love does to a man... to a man who dedicated his memory, his feelings, his emotions, his sentiments, to the one he admired for more than a decade, yes people, that's what love does to a man who was ready to do anything for the sake of that silly smile that would brighten his day and his future... and again... all of that... was replaced with guilt... blaming oneself, and regret, agony, sorrow, sadness, anger, disbelief, and one could drop a whole dictionary on the amount of feelings and emotions that Oscar had experienced... only for one person... the one he loved... lando...
Max hugged Oscar closer to him, yes he was aware of how much Oscar hated physical touch if it wasn't from lando, but at that moment, he needed it, he needed it more than cisca, he needed it more than adam, he needed it more than carlos, he needed it more than max (Verstappen), he needed it more than max ( fewtrell), he just... needed it... more than anyone
Max's eyes softened, tears formed around his eye socket... he buried his face in Oscar's shoulder, and brought him closer so he buries his too... then began speaking...
M: i wouldn't wish the grief you are carrying on my worst enemy... i promise... lando will be okay... you guys.. you guys will get married... i will officiate the wedding, i promise, i... i swear... i swear to god... i will study in med school just to make sure he is alive... so you get to be with the only one you love... i promise... i swear Oscar...
Oscar's tears kept forming... grief he said.... i was... grieving... someone who wasn't even dead..., he buried his face even further into max's shoulders... he cried until there was nothing left to come out of his eyes... fully dry, for both... but had the hug ended? absolutely not, because by the end of the day, max knew something... lando had loved Oscar back... he had loved him to the point max could start a whole podcast out of the stories he heard about this 'oscar' guy...
the hug lasted quite a while, silence, nothing to add, nothing to subtract, just, silence, calm, peace, that was what both wanted by the end of the day. lasting for more than 10 minutes, until cisca came, finding them in such position, she knew that they bonded, over one thing, one topic, one person, her son... she continued staring at them, before approaching slowly to break the silence with her calm soothing voice...
C: boys... are you okay
Max sniffled a bit, letting go of the hug, Oscar looked down, aiming to wipe the tears without cisca noticing, so she doesn't get any more worried... Max sniffled again, wiped his face with the palm of his hand, then looked straight at cisca with his red puffy eyes...
M: h-heeeyyy, um yea we're good, just you know... chatting
C: are you sure?
M: yep, ye, no need to worry, tell us please, how is lando?
C: oh yea, he's alright, the doctors just removed his mouth tube, they said they will closely monitor him, wait for him to wake up, so they can run some tests to see if it is time for them to remove the chest tube
Oscar moved his wheelchair a bit closer to cisca, he looked up at her, with confusion drawn all over his face...
O: but like... when he woke up, and me and carlos called the doctor, they said tomorrow they will remove it according to their stats?
C: i honestly have no idea regarding that information, if you want i can take you there, you can ask the doctor yourself, either way they asked us to let lando rest a bit, they gave him an oxygen mask, and are closely checking on him, monitoring every breath he takes...
O: I see... in that case i'll go back to my room, i have an appointment in like an hour or so with my doctor, to help me regain my balance
C: I'll stay with you dear, until Nicole comes
O: N-no no, no need for tha-
C: shhhh apapapapap- won't take no for an answer, your mother is a wonderful woman, she took care of me when i was at my lowest, when adam went back to Britain for work and i was left alone here, she cooked for me, helped me sleep, comforted me, and so on, and you, YOU, stayed with my son, ensured he was safe, and never stopped worrying about him, you deserve to be taken care of
Max leaned down next to Oscar, whispering in his ears 'see... i knew it... you need to be taken care of too', Oscar was left speechless, his ears turned red, from embarrassment of course, yes he was aware that he needs to be taken care of, but he uh, kind of forgotten about it, he was convinced, but forgot it... maybe paying attention to what was surrounding him, lando, carlos, the case with lewis and Russell, maybe that.... that made him forget that he was also injured, shit, his shoulder injury is probably going to take like 3 months to heal, and additional 3 to 6 months for full recovery and rehabilitation, not only physically injured, Oscar was also mentally affected, not by lando alone, but by the entire incident as well, the shooting, the court case that is occurring at the moment, everything in relation to the incident had left a huge after effect on Oscar mentally...
After thinking on his own for some time, max took Oscar back to his room along with cisca, once they reached, he grabbed him, and slowly helped him stand up in order to sit back on his bed, then lifted Oscar's legs, and buried them beneath the warm blanket, set two pillows behind him to help him relax, while cisca called a doctor to come and check on Oscar's arm... 15 minutes had passed, Oscar was laying on his bed, fully comfortable, damn... he hasn't even realized how exhausted he is until he got to rest back on his hospital bed... his left arm was numb, his right one was twitching on its' own, his legs gave up... yea he needed a rest for at least an hour before going to try walking again... he hated that concept, he hated that idea, that fact, the one where he had to learn how to walk again, how to stand up again, how to move his legs, use his abs, muscles, he hated the fact that he also had to learn how to race again at this point, it will take way too much time from his life, what he spent years going after, trying to learn, trying to kart, trying to race, trying... just trying... it has gone down the well... he needs to start again from level 0... well... it's gonna be one tough battle, good thing is that he wasn't alone, he had his own parents, sisters, lando's parents, his grid family, seb and mark, max, and a lot of people who are ready to help at anytime... he was lucky to have all these people by his side... but still... there was this feeling that he couldn't bury away, he just... couldn't... what if... i fail to jump back to my usual rhythm, what if... i won't be able to race for years because of this fuck ass injury, what if... no Oscar, look at the positive part, yes you're injured, but your maximum is a year, for full recovery, all you need is your shoulder to recover physically, which takes 3 months, and then training it again will take time yes, but by the time it's finished, you'll be able to practise racing again... you'll be able to do sports, be athletic again, you'll be able to hold lando, you'll be able to kiss lan- wait... why am i going to that part, i need to focus on myself for now, if i want to be there for lando i need to- oh... everything is connected to lando... *shakes head a bit* i need to be athletically ready, to never disappoint the fans, my family, land- ... yea... i need to see lando... but i can't... you can't Oscar... that's the thing... you need to take care of yourself, once that is done, you'll be able to take care of lando... shit, if my injury was minor, and i'm overthinking about going back to racing, what will lando say about his... shit Oscar... he's the one with the major injury... he will struggle to fucking breathe in the car... fucking hell... no.. Oscar no... focus on bright side... maybe he won't take as long as you will, maybe because my injury was more focused on the fracture, his was more... wait not... his also affected his ribs... but his ribs.. he injured them before, suffered because of it, but like... will he be able to bounce back? like he usually does? yes Oscar... probably... don't think much of it... he'll be o-
M: Oi, mate... you're thinking loudly... again...
Oscar snapped back to reality, before turning his head towards max... who was sitting next to him scrolling on his phone, but wait... cisca is nowhere to be found in the room??
O: w-where is c-
M: cisca? yea, she just went to check on lando for a bit and she'll be back
O: max... i swear i don't need to be monitored every single sec-
M: yes you do, you're family too you know
O: oh cut the crap, yes i am family, but you need to analyse the situation too max, it's not about me, it's about lando
M: alright i'll take your point
Max set his phone on the table, stood up, crossed his arms and focused on Oscar... in a way... that was either going to attack verbally or prove a point... against Oscar of course...
M: say, it's about lando alright, was he the only one who was shot?
O: no?
M: exactly, that is enough to tell you that you also need to be taken care of
O: well i have had my time of being monitored, everyone was helping me, carlos was helping me walk, Verstappen helped me regain some hope, miss cisca also helped me be hopeful and even meet lando when he was unconscious and she, herself, was in much worse state that i was, seb and mark also helped my mum when i wasn't here, you helped around with lando as well, that is all enough for me you know, of course aside from the doctors who regularly checked on me, if it weren't for them i would've continued on with my life, while having a severe infection, have you also considered that and-
M: alright i'm gonna stop you there, i understand your point alright? i am completely agreeing, alright you had enough babysitting, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be monitored, wait why am i even saying monitored, Oscar you're being taken care of for god's sake, let us do that, you deserve that, why don't you understand
O: i do understand, but what you are not understanding is my point of view! i do not think that i need close care, i am physically fine, mentally there, especially since lando woke up I've been better mentally-
M: better my ass Oscar! are you even hearing yourself mate!! you were crying so hard a second ago!! you saw one frame of lando being surrounded by doctors and you lost your shit!!! you almost fell on the ground, you were shocked, you looked pale like you'd be dead any seconds then, and you wouldn't stop thinking out loud! i'm not trying to babysit you here mate, i'm trying to take care of my fucking friend too you know??!
O: *inhale*, *exhale*, alright let's calm down, we don't want anyone to hear us, listen i am with you on that point, ok you're my friend, you want to take care of me, be my guest, but what i stand by is that lando is the one that deserves this care more than me, i'm not saying i don't deserve it but look at lando for god's sake, he can't eat, he can't swallow, he can't breathe, he can't do shit, while i can wander around, do anything i want and get the freedom i want
M: i want you to answer one single question Oscar
O: oh god, what is it
M: why lando?
O: huh? in what context are you speaking
M: everything...
O: romantically or just now
M: oh for fuck's sake Oscar, i'm speaking for this case, for the past god knows how long, al you've been saying is lando this, lando that, we get it, lando is hurt, he is disabled, he is this and that, but how about we start saying Oscar this, Oscar that, that's what you fucking failed to realise
O: oh please, i'm not trying to justify anyt-
M: oh yes you fucking are, every time someone mentions you in the slightest, your first instinct is to mention lando!! 'oh HI Oscar how are you doing!' oh yea i'm doing fucking great but you shouldn't ask about me, look at lando he's probably worse, do you even hear yourself mate!!!
max kept speaking loudly, mimicking Oscar...
O: i..i..
M: we get it mate, you love him, he loves you, but come on, get a fucking grip, do you think, when lando is fully awake, functioning, he'll be fucking proud of you??? he'll be happy that you are hurting yourself??? that you're fucking caring about him solely??? have you thought about it??? oh no of course not, because all that's been in your mind is just lando, lando and lando, god Oscar get a fucking grip, he's your boyfriend, alright, ok, i understand, you love him, you think about him 28 hours a day and there's only 24 !! you don't realise this now, but let me tell you, you are fucking depressed, have you heard that before??? you're insane, you're mentally unstable, you're anxious, you're insecure, you're every mentally unwell thing to ever exist, and all you're bothered about is lando, mate activate that brain of yours for something important, lando now is asleep, trying to recover, while you're here, doing what?? thinking over and over about lando!!! i am not saying ' oh Oscar you shouldn't think about lando, hate him instead! ' of course not, i literally told you a while ago that i want to officiate your fucking wedding, i want you both to be happily married, but come on, you're hurt too, you're affected by an incident as much as lando, yes lando is hurt, but he will recover, he'll bounce faster than your little brain even thought of!! they haven't told you this yet, and yes i'm talking about max and carlos when i say them, they haven't told you this, because they were afraid you'd be hurt, but hey, i don't fucking care, i care about you, the same way i care about lando, and if you're going to keep thinking this way, well guess what, you're going to be the one who's ending up more and more affected by a situation that had already left its' effects and passed!!! wake the fuck up Oscar, go!! practise!!! walk!! stand up!!! do things!! not for lando, but for yourself, your life has more than just lando!!! go do something for yourself, and trust me when i say this, lando will still fucking love you, and he will love oyu even more when he realizes you are taking care of yourself the way you should, not for him, yes he loves the attention he gets from you, but not to the extent you'd hurt yourself!!! for god's sake Oscar, wake up mate!!! don't do it for lando!! do it for yourself!! you want to race??? yes that's what you want!!! you don't want to race for lando don't you??? you want to race because that has been your dream since you were a little kid, you haven't known lando then, and you still dreamt, and wanted to achieve something, same case now!! when you dated at a young age!! did that affect your dream?? did you go like ' oh i want to race for person X and person Y' no of course not!!! you want to race because that has always been your dreams, so work towards THAT not towards the idea that you want to make lando happy or proud, god Oscar, lando is happy and proud of you regardless!!! even if you had done the dumbest shit to ever exist like right now for example, he'd still be yapping over and over about how proud he is of you, so don't think about making lando proud of you or aware of you, he is already proud and aware more than what you are expecting!!! So get your senses back and prepare to achieve your goal again!!! even if it meant working towards it again and again, you have other people by your side!!! we will help you!!! it isn't lando only who needs help and you know that, you clearly fucking know that, so you are going to receive our help and you won't argue about it!! because if you want to talk about what lando would think? i will fucking tell you, he will be mad at me, at cisca, at adam, at himself, at fucking himself, because he will think you got hurt and worse because of him not waking up or some sort of shit he'll come up with from his bum... god Oscar get back to your senses, you need to get better, not for lando but for yourself!! your mum hadn't birthed you, almost died in real life trying to stay by your side, raising you every single day for 25 years, only for you to care about lando and degrade your fucking situation, wake the FUCK UP OSCAR!!!
Max finally finished his long lecture, eyes red, tears mixed with anger written all of his face, god he didn't pull such a long lecture because he hated Oscar, he loves Oscar, Oscar is like his brother, he loves the man like family, true family, he loved lando too, he was afraid for lando too, worried too, too anxious for him, but he needed Oscar to be okay too, he needs him to take care of himself, it's irritating him how Oscar is neglecting his own health...
Max kept breathing heavily for a minute straight.... the reaction he expected from Oscar was nowhere near what Oscar actually said, or acted?...
Oscar stared into max's eyes with an emotionless expression, just, nothing, just staring... He sighed, breathed slowly, then proceeded to speak with a low voice...
O: you're.... right....
M: wha-
O: you're right, I've completely lost myself, i was too affected by what happened, i focused on lando, because my brain managed to convince me that it's all my fault, you're absolutely correct... that incident just... messed up with my mind, i wanted to convince myself that by hurting my soul, my body, is like punishing myself for what i have done, for ignoring lando when he warned me
M: then let me tell you, the solution isn't to fully neglect yourself, you shouldn't neglect yourself, yes i understand, and guess what, what you're experiencing is survivor's guilt, even though lando hasn't died or anything, you are still experiencing a survivor's guilt where you blame yourself for anything that had occurred even if you had absolutely no relation to whoever had done this..
O: i see.. honestly... I've been feeling pain in my shoulder for quite some time, but i brushed off as 'lando probably has it worse', and... as much as i want to stop doing that, my brain... it feels like my brain had been completely convinced that i should be punished
M: you shouldn't be punished for something you haven't done Oscar, something that requires no reason for you to blame yourself, your shoulder hurts, yes it hurts, you should tell the doctor, not think about lando, say, if roles were reverse-
O: please, enough with the roles reversed thing, I've heard it from every person I've known so far, and it's really pissing me off
M: well if it's what's going to get you to finally trust yourself again and stop ignoring your health, then so be it, be pissed at me if needed
O: no it's not that, god, listen, you are right, i get it, but whatever happened, had been done already, the damage had been done, i can't just with a snap of fingers automatically change my mindset from 'what about lando' to 'what about me', I've been seeing nightmares every single time i sleep, couldn't sleep for a long time, because every time i close my eyes i just relive that same incident, so i distract my mind with lando, and apparently that had left a bad reflection on my mind, to the point that i can't go one single day without thinking about how lando must be feeling at that moment
M: well of course i am not expecting you to change with some sort of miracle or magic, of course not, and that's why i'm here, i'm here to actually help you, you are having nightmares? well i'll stay with you, wake up, it's ok, tell me your nightmares, i'll play some music, i'll dance, i'll sing, i'll do anything, if it requires me dancing like a lion with two sticks in my hands for you to calm down, i'll do it
Oscar chuckled a bit at max's comments, he couldn't help it, he knew he was serious, it was nice of him, but something in him just... refused...
O: i appreciate it, bu-
M: not buts, if every single time i try or cisca tries or anyone tries to help you, you refuse and then pull the 'i just can't because my feelings' well to hell with your feelings, i don't care about them, it's time you get fixed, i'm not going to stand here why you jeopardize your sanity, i'll get you a therapist if required, i'll literally do anything
O: tell me.... why...
M: wha?
O: just... why me, why are you helping me this much, being a friend only isn't a reason you know, I've had friend, but none were willing to go that crazy for me
M: alright, aside from the friend part... i made a deal with lando... or you can say... lando forced a deal onto me
O: aha, continue
M: soooo basically... we were once playing and streaming, i forgot when was it, and as you know lando loves speaking about you (Oscar blushed a bit), soo once we were done with the streaming, we ordered some food, and i got tim tams, i really wanted to know the hype about them-
O: they're really good
M: they're regular biscuits mate
O: you TAKE that back
M: woah jeez, chill tim tam monster... anyways, knowing you ADORE the biscuits, lando stared at me and laughed, of course, being the stupid i was, i asked him... and he started a whole podcast of 2 hours, talking about you, how ethereal you are, how angelic, your calm soothing voice, your bla bla bla... until night, when he finished, he looked at me seriously and said to me these exact words 'max, i want you to promise me, no matter what happens, no matter what goes wrong, if anything happened to me' he was referencing to racing incidents honestly i think, rather than an actual shooting or stabbing or i don't know, but yea he said ' if anything happened to me, please, don't let Oscar blame himself, or hurt himself, he is one to do that, when i crashed in vegas, he somehow found a way to blame himself, and i don't even know why, and even if anything happens to my car or his car, he'll be blaming himself, so please max, promise me, if anything happened to me, you won't let him drown himself in guilt or whatever bad emotions or feelings he might experience, please', so when i saw you in that state earlier, knowing you hated the physical touch, i couldn't bare seeing you internally shaking, so i had to find a way to comfort you, worked for some time, but i was hoping for a longer after effect, and apparently that didn't show much effect, and currently i'm aiming to actually find a way to help you out...
O: i see, i appreciate it...
M: well mate, i need more than just you appreciating it you know
O: i meant fine... i will accept it... but on one condition
M: do tell
O: please, don't prevent me from checking on lando or making sure he's safe, because yes i will be focusing on myself, but i don't want to neglect my boyfriend, by the end of the day he is the sole reason i still want to stay alive you know
M: damn that's deep, but yeah, i won't intervene in whatever gay shit you got going on, but just so you know, if it's going to alter your health recovery process, i will have to do something about it
O: fine, but only to that extent, other than that, i'm free to check on him, to keep up with HIS recovery not just mine...
M: alright alright, that's acceptable, so first thing we must do, is check on you, are you experiencing any sort of soreness, pain or anything that the doctor should be aware of? and yes that includes any pain that occurs during an activity or action like sitting down standing up or any of the sort
O: well of course when doing something i will experience some sort of pain, but in general, it's mostly my shoulder, it just feels like hell, everytime i move any finger, or even intend to move it, it sends some sort of alarming pain to my bone, yes i know it's probably shattered, and that has some ''owie'' effect, but still, i doubted it's an infection as i receive a daily checkup, but for some reason, it just, wouldn't go away...
M: i see, have you told that to the doctor? or should i be the one telling him, because if we go by your assumption and say it's not an infection, it can be anything else
O: like?
M: i don't know i was just adding another assumption to yours
O: you're insufferable
M: hey, i'm trying to help here
O: i can tell you're very helpful indeed
M: you're being sarcastic
O: you are quite smart too
M:...
O: yea, (Oscar raised his eyebrows, pressed both lips and stared in awkwardness - His face was like :I ) soooo, other than that, i'm still trying to push myself to walk, even a meter is enough for me to gain confidence
M: don't you have an appointment with the doctor?
O: yea, and honestly i'm feeling tired as hell, i want to go but i'm also tired as hell, as i mentioned earlier, the nightmares haven't been much of a help
M: you can try sleeping, i'll be here, and if anything happens, or you happen to be experiencing a nightmare, i'll be here to hear you out and listen to you, and provide comfort
O: what about the doctor
M: if he shows up, i'll just tell him that you weren't feeling okay and needed some sleep, he wouldn't argue much or try to push anything, he's a doctor by the end of the day
O: i hear you... well alright, i'll try to sleep...
M: great...
Oscar tried to make himself comfortable on the bed, shifting slightly downward, head now facing the ceiling, max lowered the room illumination, to keep it dim, which was recommended, for his eyes to not be exhausted... Oscar closed his eyes slowly, hoping for the best, though, one more thing before he slept, he turned his head towards max, who happened to be checking certain things around the room, to make sure Oscar remains as comfortable as necessary, and that's when it hit Oscar, what a good friend, you're lucky to have him la- Oscar... you need to help hi- wait nope, you need to help yourself first Oscar.... appreciate this friendship, or brotherhood, and focus on healing yourself... you got this champ... He thought for a second, before his lips moved softly, to whisper to max, in a gentle tone...
O: thank you.... for being here
Max barely caught it at first, but he understood, from the shift of the tone, the gentle and soft expression written on Oscar's face, and the smile he gave before drifting to a peaceful sleep...
M: goodnight... Oscar...
Max smiled back at him, then sat beside him, scrolling again on his phone, every two seconds, now and then, he dazes off, he zones out, then brings himself back to whatever video he was watching or post he was checking... he didn't know whether it was his brain that was keeping him away from something, or he was just worried, or just exhaustion, he doesn't know... his best option is to just keep scrolling, leaving isn't an option, as he promised to help Oscar...
sir !!! stay awake!!! stay with me!!! focus with me!!! follow my finger!!! everything will be alright!!!w-what...?
everything will be alright!! we're getting you to safety!!! stay with mei- i can't move... where am i
NO NO SIR PLEASE FOCUS WITH ME, DON'T CLOSE YOUR EYES!!!why is she yelling, what is this.... wait.. why is everything black...
WE'RE LOSING HIM, DEFIBRILLATOR NOW!!! WE ARE LOSING HIM, GIVE ME A SHOCK, NOW QUICKLY, HE IS LOSING BLOOD, CASSANDRA DEAL WITH HIM BLOOD, QUICKLY, HE IS LOSING BLOODwhy is... why is the voice muffled?? where am i
ANTHONY GIVE ME ANOTHER SHOCK!!! WE ARE LOSING HIM!!!losing who?? me?.... what is this
WE GOT IT, WE GOT A HEART BEAT, HURRY TO THE ICU, QUICKLY QUICKLY, MISTER OSCAR, CAN YOU HEAR US, MISTER OSCAR PLEASE STAY WITH USosca... that's me... why is she telling me to stay with her... wait where am i... i was just surrounded by people now... why is it bright now....what is going on...
that's... my surgeon?? wait, he is going to cut my body, wait, WAIT SHIT I CAN FEEL IT FUUUUCCCCKKK AHHHH, STOP IT STOP IT, IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS IT HURTS, AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH-
AHHHHHHHHHHHH
M: OSCAR, OSCAR RELAX, CHILL, YOU ARE SAFE, YOU ARE OKAY
Oscar sat up quickly, holding his shoulder, eyes wide, breathing heavily, eyes dilated, he lost his focus, he doesn't know what is going on, all he knows is that he is sweating as hell, not a normal sweat, but the sweat that drips after surviving something that shouldn't have been encountered from the beginning.. Oscar was shaking uncontrollably, as if he had seen a ghost, and that alone had sent shivers down max's spine, he wasn't sure how to comfort Oscar, except for rubbing his hand on his back, try to pull him for a hug... he knew hearing him speak about it might trigger him or anything, so he just stuck to comforting him physically...
M: shh.. it's okay... it's okay... you're alive... you're well...
max brought Oscar closer to him, trying to comfort him, trying to remind him that everything is alright, he doesn't know how hard it must've been to experience the aftermath of a traumatic incident, his maximum was probably crashing at his home race, but rather than that, nothing traumatic, so all he could do was try to remind Oscar that he is alive, that he isn't alone, that was what he could do...
O: it... it hurts.... they hurt me.... it was scary... painful.... i felt it max... i fucking felt it...
M: i'm sorry, i'm so sorry, it's all gone now, it's gone, it ended, take a deep breath in and out, come on Oscar, you can do it
Oscar's breathing pattern was aggressive, heavily inhaling and exhaling, which sent a feeling of worry in max's body, he was anxious about whether Oscar will develop breathing issues or his heart might explode at this point. Max pulled Oscar a bit away from him, lowered himself to the same level of Oscar's eyes, and stared at him, holding both his shoulders lightly so it doesn't hurt him. He had a serious expression written all over his face, he was going to give something a try, and see if it works...
M: alright look at me, look at me... i'm going to do something lando had taught me, it's called a 5-4-3-2-1 technique, alright, focus with me, please Oscar, are you here?
Oscar nodded, while shakingly looking terrified.
M: alright, give me 5 things you can see...
Oscar looked around for a bit, his head waving from right to left.. He began to talk, at first words wouldn't come out clearly, as his voice was shaking to the point it wouldn't sound humanly... Max asked him to repeat, slowly, as to help understand and also help him focus on what he was trying to say instead of what had happened in his dream...
O: you..... v...vase... (he looked around a bit more)... wheel...chair... table... and... medical... board....
M: perfect, that's 5 things, perfect, now give me 4 things you can touch... come on Oscar, you can do this...
Oscar lifted his hand a bit, the good thing is that it isn't as shaky as it was... he looked around, staring at objects... he thought it was things he can touch...
O: table...
M: no no, i meant you can touch right now..
O: oh... then... blanket.... my... arm swathe... my... face... and... my pillow...
M: that's great, perfect, 4 things, alright, now 3 things you can hear...
Oscar closed his eyes, trying to isolate his thoughts from his actual senses, he tried to make out sounds of his surroundings, before opening his eyes again, staring at max and speaking softly... his voice less shaky now...
O: um.. the machines... all of them... your breathing... and um... (he closed his eyes again, trying to hear something), and.... something dripping? i think, i hear that...
M: i assume it's the bathroom, but it's all good, if you hear it then it is... now, focus with me, 2 things you can smell...
Oscar seemed to be knowing of this question already and had an answer prepared...
O: the disgusting.... smell of the hospital... and uh... your strong cologne...
M: ah damn, sorry mate.. alright.. the last one is supposed to be something you can taste but uh since you won't be able to taste anything at this moment, so i got this candy, i won't tell you it's flavor, and i want you to taste it and tell me what flavor is it... alright?
Oscar nodded, as max handed him the candy... Oscar stared at the candy for some time, then put it in his mouth, the taste was sweet, like super sweet, he wasn't sure if it was some fruit or just straight up bubblegum... it was until he bit onto it, that it released a familiar taste...
O: this... this is papaya? papaya candy?
M: good job!! you did better than me honestly, first time i tried it i thought it was some straight up maple syrup or something
O: doesn't even taste like that...
M: well i wasn't aware, pietra just put it in my mouth and uh it taste bizarre
O: it's papaya, i am forced to eat papaya in mclaren, papaya smoothies, papaya ice cream, and even papaya salad... i breathe papaya there...
M: i see.... isn't that a bit exaggerated...
O: apparently zak brown doesn't believe so... he's probably freaked out at the moment, i haven't even texted him once so i have no clue
M: i'm pretty sure your friend, max, had already checked with them
O: honestly i haven't opened my phone it's probably exploding with messages left and right
M: i see, well, tell me, how are you feeling now
O: less shit... it's better, thanks max...
M: my pleasure, how about you try to sleep again, maybe i can put some soothing music? like jazz? or LO-FI, i'm learning these from pietra and lando by the way, i'm not that type of person haha
O: i remember i had to live with lando once in one room, in a hotel, and he mentioned he doesn't sleep without any soothing music, so i had to keep up with it, it wasn't bad honestly, helped me sleep, so i don't see why i shouldn't give it a try.
M: lovely, let me use my phone real quick... and search for the one pietra spams me with and... there you go
Max played a Lo-Fi 5 hours video on youtube, featuring some cat background, and put his phone on the table next to Oscar... He then got up, brought a cup of water, lowered the temperature a bit, and went back to Oscar.. He brought the blankets up, adjusted his inclination and put an extra pillow under Oscar's already fixated arm, hoping it would lower the pain, he figure maybe the reason he had that bad dream was because his arm was in pain...
Oscar tried to close his eyes, every time he does, an image appears, every time it's a different one, once it was him on the stretchers, once it was the doctors rushing him to the ICU, and once... it was.... lando fighting death in his own pool of blood.... Oscar's eyes shook a bit, he winced a bit then shook his head trying to change the image...
Max noticed his distress, he offered massaging, he offered telling a story, he offered everything, but he concluded that Oscar's issue was beyond his expertise... so... he asked the ultimate question, that he thought would solve everything...
M: say... how would um... lando... deal with your stress... when you um.. struggle to sleep?
Oscar stared at him for some time, confusion all over his face...
O: huh?
M: you know... when you shared a room, i assume it was for a week
O: a month
M: A MONTH?? damn what happened
O: the hotels we had to book were overbooked, limited in rooms, so we had to go eco... and uh, yea, andrea was with zak, my trainer with lando's, and i was with lando...
M: aha... well regardless, of course you had trouble sleeping in certain nights
O: first night, because it was embarrassing for me...
M: i see, well, how did you deal with it, or how did lando did with it
O: at first lando didn't notice, he slept the moment he laid on his bed, he had a face mask on, and his hair was in some weird hair product or object, i don't know what it was, but yea, he slept before me... it was around 2 am, when he woke up for water and saw me awake... he was going to lecture me but he found it useless... so he approached me... tried to take a sneak peek at what i was doing, obviously i was trying to close my eyes to avoid any interactions, until he hit me with 'i have siblings you know, i am aware of when you are asleep, and when you are faking it, so don't bother', and of course i got caught... he tried to get me to speak about what was bothering me, and back then it was just because of a fucked up race i had previously, so i had some anxiety building up, regarding whether i was going to fuck up the next one or not... him on the other hand, he did not give a single hoot about whether he was going to fuck up or not, he stared at me for some time, drank his water, lowered the ac just like you did right now, and sat next to me and uh said... 'we can watch a movie if you want, maybe it helps you with sleeping, i find it better than wasting your time trying to sleep and doom scrolling on your tiktok'.
M: really... a movie?
O: t wasn't exactly the movie that helped me sleep, it was what happened DURING the movie
M: i assume you guys didn't make out, knowing you weren't dating back then
O: obviously not, but when we were watching, i noticed myself drifting to sleep, my eyes closing on its own, lando on the other hand was fully awake, fully committed to the movie, which made me feel bad, as i got him to wake up, sit with me through a 2 hours movie, and help me sleep... until he decided to speak 'if you're tired, you don't have to wait for me, you can go sleep you know' at that time, i had more guilt and was stubborn, i insisted on watching with him... until uh... i ended up sleeping....
M: so basically nothing happened...
O: not really, because knowing myself, i would wake up after 3 hours or 2 hours normally... that's how it works, i never sleep full hours... but apparently, when i woke up, i wasn't exactly sitting up... i was... laying... on lando's lap... and um... he was playing with my hair until he himself fell asleep... guilt washed all over me... as he completely looked uncomfortable... so not only did i wake him up, made him watch a movie with me, but also kept him from sleeping comfortably... the guilt i had back then woah...
M: before you finish, i just hope, HOPE, that you are NOT expecting me to play with your hair
O: i'm gay, not a whore... of course i'm dating your best friend i'm not going to make YOU do that for me, not only will it be awkward, but also i won't sleep as it'll be WEIRD
M: just making sure
O: i'm just telling you how i fell asleep when it was impossible... but yeah.. continuing... after i woke up.. i sat up quickly, my face was red from embarrassment... lando's hand was moving on its' own, like a robot... and he was still asleep... i checked the time, it was 7 am... the hotel breakfast closes around 11, so it was a good thing that we had no work that day, so i carried lando back to his bed... closed the curtains... and went to make myself some coffee...
M: and what happened after HE woke up...
O: he was freaking out a bit...
M: expected of him...
O: yea... he thought i hated what he did, little did he know i loved it but i was full of guilt
M: and what did you do that day?
O: i took him out to dinner, i paid... then offered to um...
M: say it...
O: do night routines with him...
M: HAAAA HE GOT YOU TOO
O: AY SHUT IT... it wasn't completely bad...
M: honestly yea..
O: oh you were... too
M: mhm...
O: i see....
M: well now that you told me your little gay story with lando, how about we try to get you to sleep, i won't play with your hair, but i can try putting a movie on the tv?
O: sure try that
M: what movie did he put that day
O: i'm pretty sure it was la la land?
M: ahh, yea pietra loved it too
O: yea, we can go with that
M: alright let me set it up real quick...
Max got up from his place and began putting the movie, as for Oscar, while he was staring at the 'still' not open TV, he was recalling some flashbacks from when he was sharing a room with lando... back then many people really thought they were dating... and Oscar was left with 'wishing' they were... and apparently lando too... but according to Oscar's mind, he really loved those memories... the time he had to wear a face mask for hours, after failing to keep it on... the times they played monopoly, cards, board games... the first time they watched a horror movie and lando ended up vomiting for hours... the time Oscar got sick and lando took care of him through every single minute, the moment lando got hurt on his way home and his back kept annoying him... as Oscar decided to massage him that day and it was his favorite... and the day they decided to try new food, arab food... and they tried from different cuisines... the way lando was struggling to pronounce the names made Oscar die out of laughter... man it was the best moments back then... maybe if Oscar continues remembering these moments, maybe it'll help him sleep... that was his goal.. to finally sleep a bit...
By the time he kept recalling those memories, max was already done with putting the movie on, he went back to sit next to Oscar... also watching the movie with him... every second of the movie, took Oscar back to his moments with lando, every, single, second... and after some time, not even 30 minutes had passed, Oscar was finally sound asleep, no bad memories... not nightmares... just him.. the sound of the movie... and his cute little memories with lando...
Max finally rested as well, as he got his first achievement on the list... get Oscar to sleep... and it finally worked...
it will be 3 hours later, when Nicole decides to show up, with the doctor who's going to help Oscar regain his balance... They got in the room found both max and Oscar asleep, and decided not to bother them until an hour later... they were both aware how tired the kids were...
PART 8: Coming soon...
(To be continued, Sorry for taking way too long to post a new part, work has been killing me lately, also i wanted to say that i will add chapters as the story turned out to be longer than what i had in mind, the chapters will be divided to -hospital chap 1- court with lewis and george chap 2- incident chap 3- recovery chap 4- fluff and love chap 5- mostly this is how it's gonna be, i'm so sorry for taking long i'll try to be more efficient, hope you enjoy <3).