Having a break from the Grand Prix circus was nice, especially since I was able to go home for a few days and see my family and Sarah, but ultimately, this feels like the right place for me to be.
We’re getting ready for the press conference ahead of this weekend, and everyone is wondering when or if the BMW team will announce the extension of Hayden Vaser’s contract, Luke’s teammate. Luke is on a multi-year contract, meaning he has a secure spot in the team for several years to come.
Following the 1-2 finish in the last race weekend and Hayden’s pole position, discussions about his place in the team have intensified.
As soon as someone performs strongly, the other teams want to get their claws into the driver, making it that much more important to keep your drivers content in their team. I wouldn’t imagine that Hayden would leave BMW, even if he were to receive an offer. He is part of one of the strongest teams on the grid.
Still, you can never know for sure.
There have been many scandals over the years of drivers going behind their team’sback, signing with a different team for a bigger pay check.
Nevertheless, Hayden doesn’t come across as that type. He seems like a good guy, just like his teammate.
Hayden steps out with the BMW team principal, and shortly after, Luke follows.
My breath catches at the sight of him, not expecting to see him.
He wasn’t scheduled for this specific press conference, and my heart starts pounding in my chest.
Part of me wonders if I’ll ever stop reacting this way whenever I see him.
I may not have seen him for over a week, but that is nowhere near enough time for someone to forget a man like him.
My body feels the pull toward him. They all take their seats, and the room quiets down.
“We have some exciting news to share with you all today,” the team principal begins, and every journalist in the room prepares to write down his next words.
“I’m happy to announce that we have signed a deal with Hayden for the next two years. He will continue as a BMW driver, alongside Luke.”
The room is buzzing with excitement, and everyone is getting ready to ask their questions. I’m writing in my own notebook when they start answering all the questions fired at them.
Right away, they begin questioning whether one driver will be assigned the role of primary driver and how the team dynamic will shift.
Then questions regarding their chances at the constructors’ championship are asked.
Andrew leans over and tells me to raise my hand for a question while he runs out to get a new memory card for his recorder.
I don’t really think I’ll get the opportunity, considering all the hands in the air, but I keep my hand raised and look down into my notebook, contemplating what question I’ll ask if I get the chance.
“Star News. Your question, please.” I glance around for Andrew, but he hasn’t come back yet, so I’ll have to do it.
“Thank you. Jessica Edwards, Star News. My question is for Hayden. What do you think will be the most important factor from now on in developing as a driver for a well-established team like BMW?” I ask, keeping my voice calm.
I’ve asked questions at press conferences before, but I’ve never had Luke front and centre, feeling his gaze bore intome.
I try my hardest not to let my eyes wander from Hayden as he gives me his answer.
“As we advance, it will be essential to continue to push the team and our performance to the limits. For myself, the most important factor will be good leadership and mentorship, which I’m sure I’ll get here.” He gives a slight nod to Luke, but I just stare ahead, thanking him for his answer.
Even when I ask another driver a question, the source of all my pain is brought up.
I’m proud of Luke and his mentorship of Hayden. I’m not surprised that Hayden emphasizes Luke’s role; he is a great man and a steady mentor.
Still, it hurts having him so close, but feeling like the distance is bigger than ever.
The rest of the press conference is a blur as I sit in my seat, contemplating how I’ll ever get over the man when he’s everywhere.
Chapter 33
