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CHAPTER 1
Monaco, Tuesday night
"I'm getting married."
These were not the words Emily Cole expected to hear when her best friend asked her out for a drink.
"Hmm, I didn't expect Mr. Congeniality Daniel Richard will ever be tied down." Emily was surprised Daniel was able to keep this secret from her. But she should have seen this coming.
They were sitting at the terrace of their favourite cafe near the ancient Port Hercule, facing the Mediterranean coast of the French Riviera. The water was reflecting the lights from the hundreds of yachts on the port, making it sparkle under the moonlight. It was a nice, warm Tuesday night, perfect for a cold beer with the city still buzzing with tourists even late at night.
"This month is as good as any to get married and I don't want to start a family when I retire, that would be unfair for both of us," Daniel said as if he has been thinking about this for some time now.
"You knew I asked Claudine Claudine to marry me, you were there." Daniel opened his third can of beer.
Emily was there indeed. It was after the Australian race match in March in Melbourne, a less illustrious result for both of them. Their loss to the drivers of Tyrrell, Jaguar and Benetton did not dampen Daniel's mood when after the race briefings, he asked Emily to go out for a quick shot of whisky at the back of their quarters for Dutch courage and pep talk. Emily was bone-tired after the activities of the day but she couldn't let her loyalty falter. What was winning fifth place, driving at a minimum of 220mph for almost two hours, facing the crowd and fans and gruelling race debriefings and press conferences compared to a determined man about to make one of the most important decisions of his life?
Although Emily was sure Daniel had his mind and heart during the race, he won fourth place, after all, the man was more nervous about that marriage proposal more than anything she can remember in more than a decade of their friendship. But Claudine, Daniel's girlfriend of four years, did not break his heart. It was just too bad they only had less than a day to spend time with each other's family to celebrate their engagement with the teams already preparing to go to Bahrain for the next race match.
"That was five months ago. I couldn't remember what I ate last week let alone your engagement, which after all is not mine." Emily faced Daniel.
"Who gets married in August anyway? It's too hot in Monaco and too cold in Australia."
Daniel barked out a laugh, putting his right arm around Emily's shoulders. He flashed his signature wicked grin and his eyes were sparkling.
"I know you're happy for me Cole, you've been my best mate and it would mean a lot to me if you find it in your heart to leave your cave here and spend a week or so in Melbourne for the wedding. You know there's only August and December to choose from and I refuse to wait another four months. Claudine might change her mind with wedding preparations driving her crazy as it is."
Emily took a long gulp out of her beer can as she stared into the sea. Genuinely happy as she was for Daniel, it isn't everyday people find someone worth settling down for, she couldn't help feeling left out. She shook her head. It was a selfish thought, one she didn't want to fester in her mind.
She had known Claudine as long as Daniel knew her and she knew that aside from being drop-dead gorgeous, she's also a saint, ever patient, understanding and thoughtful of Daniel's job, passion for racing and even his celebrity status. Always finding something funny in any situation and having a genuine smile or grin on his face made Daniel even more popular.
Even though they only spend a few months with each other every year, this didn't stop Daniel and Claudine to be one of the best couples Emily has ever seen. Not that she knew many. They were in tune with each other's moods and quirks. Emily smiled remembering the times Daniel had to fight sleep due to difference in time zones whenever he needed to call Claudine, who was a sports physiologist based in Melbourne. Maintaining a long-distance relationship was not for everyone but they made it look easy and very doable.
"Hey, it's an expensive cave, one I wouldn't want to willingly trade for Australian spiders and snakes and extreme weathers.'' Emily teased. ''You know I hate the cold... but I would hate it more to miss your big day."
"Yeah yeah, your flat is more expensive than mine. Thanks, Cole, I mean it. Mum also wants to check on you, see if you fatten up and Bella wants to take you shopping. And by that she meant you buying her anything she gets her eyes on." Daniel said happily.
Emily smiled at the mention of Mrs. Richard and Daniel's younger sister. Daniel's family took her in and treated her like their own when Daniel took her home during the second year of her's and Daniel's rookie season in the elite racing scene of Formula A Series. Emily drove for Cavallino Rampante, she didn’t want to be driving for any of the other nine teams, while Daniel drove for BMMR. It was a tough time for both of them then, both rookies with the expectations of their teams and fans weighing on their shoulders.
That was eight years ago and she felt much older, more mature and confident about her place in the sport. They were a promising pair when they started, rising stars in their own right, winning three driver's championships each since they started their Formula A career.
Emily and Daniel knew each other since they were teens from youth race camps and minor racing competitions and they were emerging rivals at Formula B, the primary Formula A feeder series. They were both competing against each other and would usually end up competing for the top prize while other drivers either crashed out or fell behind. They knew there can only be one winner but they also knew they bring out the best of each other when racing so they decided to assume a friendly rivalry, instead of a bitter one.
"Did you explain to our chère maman that we lose about eight pounds every race and that's twenty-one races each year?"
"I tried but she couldn't be bothered by it. She worries you’re only eating rabbit food and exercise to death. Why do I even bother answering for your weight and who's her kid anyway? She doesn't even care what I eat when I'm home!"
Emily laughed and her heart, as always, was warming up thinking about the family, who practically adopted her right after her father died. She suddenly remembered her cousin, Mia, and felt a wave of sadness and guilt. They were both orphans now but at least she had the Richards. She's not sure Mia has any surrogate family, except for her, an absentee cousin. With an effort, she waved this train of thought out of her mind.
"Jeez, did Bella already go through all the clothes and makeup she made me buy last March? I don't even spend half of the money I spent on her shopping sprees on myself!" Emily complained.
"Be thankful you're only buying her clothes and makeup. I never realized med school costs as much as a racing car's rear wing each year."
Emily shook her head with a small smile on her face at Daniel's comment. Race cars do cost a lot but she was sure Daniel was earning as much as she was, if not more, so he can afford any med school in the world if Bella wanted it. Nothing but the best for their darling Bella, who’s been suffering from lack of sleep for the last six years and counting.
Bella, who was currently in her final year of residency, was younger than both of them, which made her the baby of the family, a spoiled one but never a brat. Bella shared her brother's outgoing, down to earth and let's all be friends personality. Most times she's with the siblings, Emily felt like she was dealing with one person in two different bodies, making it easier for her as she knew them all too well. Daniel and Bella were the fun, daredevils of the family, making Mrs. Richard worried to death sometimes.
Another hour of discussing previous races and Emily's trip to Melbourne on Thursday, Daniel finished his drink and gestured to the waiter for the bill. Daniel has pleaded with Emily to come to Melbourne as soon as she can so she can help him with the wedding preparations. She didn’t really have anything tying her down in Monaco at the moment. The Hungarian race match just finished last week and all teams were tying up loose ends with the two-week summer break already started.
Daniel will fly out to Melbourne tomorrow afternoon with the wedding already on Wednesday the next week. It was a week before the wedding and he needed to take the reins from Claudine before she lost her sanity. God knows Daniel didn't know anything about weddings, flowers and cakes but he figured that between himself and Emily, and Claudine already finishing most of the preparations, they can keep things together with minimal bloodshed.
Emily got out of the taxi in front of her apartment building in the heart of the principality. Like some of the race car drivers from other teams, Daniel was based in Monaco during the season but Emily lived in the city all her life.
Her mother, who was living in Monaco, met her dad during one of the races in the city and they settled there after they got married. When her mother died when she was seven, her father decided to stay put despite Cavallino Rampante’s headquarter being in Bologna. Emily ached for her mother when. She often remembered her sunny smile and soft skin smelling like roses but she learned to live with that gap in her life as she got older. Her mother’s death was a dose of what pain fate can deal.
Andrew Cole did his best to raise Emily, sharing his love of motorsport to his daughter. He raised her while doing a work he loved, being Cavallino Rampante’s race team manager. He recognized his daughter’s raw driving talent so he trained, encouraged and supported her. When Emily was eighteen, Andrew was able to see her become the sixth woman to qualify and race in the history of Formula A Series and he, full of pride and excitement for the future, had dreamt of Emily reaching the top, something which her female predecessors failed to reach.
Emily did reach the top during her second year of racing, but her dad was not there to see. Her world was once again torn apart when her dad, who was supposed to be enjoying a rare free time with his daughter, died in a car crash one wet evening while making his way home. Emily didn’t have time to grieve. She didn’t let herself break down at the middle of the season. Her unreadable and stoic countenance and furious driving worried everyone in her team and her closest friend but she kept everyone at arm’s length.
Her first world championship was a bittersweet moment. It was the moment Emily lived for and yet, it was also the moment she truly felt alone in the world, knowing she would never be able to see her dad ever again. His death was something she never learned to live with.
But being Daniel's friend meant that one cannot dwell on destructive thoughts for too long. Daniel knew her long enough to discern the dark clouds which threatened to drown her and even when he himself was nursing a broken heart and bruised ego after losing the season to her, he insisted on her spending the winter break with him and his family on the Gold Coast. Spending time with them was a soothing balm to Emily's gutted soul.
Emily placed the bunch of letters the receptionist downstairs gave her in a big white ceramic bowl on the centre table in her living room without checking them and went to the fridge to get a bottle of water. She would let Darlene, her personal secretary, deal with those bills later.
She walked towards the balcony of her three-bedroom apartment. This was her favourite part of her home as it overlooks the race tracks and the sea up ahead. It's also a most appropriate place for brooding, one which she was inclined to do once her emotions and memories were stirred up. She thought Daniel getting married was another big step in his life and she should be there to support him as what he has always done for her. She will do anything in her power to make the big day as special and flawless for her two friends. This included finding the right gift and stop feeling sorry for herself.
Monaco, Race to Heart: Text
CHAPTER 2
Monaco, Wednesday morning
Emily was woken up by her cell phone ringing.
“Ciao, Emily, it’s Amelia. Do you mind coming by the house anytime today?” She said without preamble, sounding a bit distraught.
She was surprised and curious as to what Nick Willis’ wife would want from her. Nick was the current race team manager of Cavallino Rampante and her dad’s former apprentice. For her, he was big Uncle Nick with an equally big laugh but she respected him, trusted his decisions and guidance since she started working with him professionally. She and her dad went to countless Sunday dinners with Nick’s family when her dad was still alive. She liked Amelia’s well-collected disposition, uncomplicated, straightforward manner and her great cooking.
“What happened?”, Emily asked. The wall clock in front of her king-size bed told her it was a little past eight in the morning. The morning breeze was gently rustling the dark curtains, letting a little sunshine in her spacious bedroom.
Amelia hesitated, “Nick was in a car accident last night. Nothing serious but the police are investigating. He didn’t say what but he wanted to talk to you.”
A car crash! Emily immediately thought of her dad and she was filled with apprehension. She told Amelia she’ll be in Rome before lunch after finding out how Nick was.
She got out of her bed and went to the bathroom adjacent to it. Pained dark green eyes stared back at her when she looked into the mirror. It has been eight years but anything which reminded her greatly of her dad’s death caused her heart to ache with profound loss.
She shook the webs of sadness and the tears threatening to fall and called her secretary. She knew Darlene, who has been with her for three years now, would be awake by now.
“Dar, please get clearance for me and Charles for Rome for today. Tell him to meet me in Nice now.”
Her secretary was unfazed by her instructions. “Do you need me to arrange flowers and fruits for Mr. Willis? I assume he’s the one you’re visiting. I was about to call you about his accident this morning.”
“Yeah, that’d be good. Thanks, Dar.” Emily was glad she was paying Darlene more than she asked for. She did more than keep her on schedule and take care of her domestic and sometimes personal affairs. She was also her eyes and ears inside the racing industry, keeping her up to date with all the relevant and irrelevant information and rumours.
“No problem, delivery guy should be able to meet you at the airport parking,” Darlene said. Emily would have to catch up with Darlene later for her trip to Melbourne.
It was lunchtime when she touched down at Ciampino airport in the Italian capital. After leaving some instructions to Charles, she was patiently navigating her way to Aventine Hill in the latest dark grey Cavallino Rampante sports car tucked away at the airport car park for her usage whenever she was in the city.
Emily was tapping her finger on the steering wheel, her sports car was useless in Rome’s infamous traffic. The bundle of bright, cheery daisies and fruits on the seat beside her caught her attention. Despite her gloomy thoughts, she smiled at the thought of the burly man receiving flowers.
She has known Nick all her life and although she might not be close to him as her father once was, she knew Nick looked out for her since her dad died. A psychiatrist would tell her that she might have personally distanced herself from Nick as he very much reminded her of her dad. He was her dad’s favourite subordinate, after all, teaching and supporting him to be his replacement when he finally retired.
Thirty minutes later, she was pulling into the familiar driveway of Nick’s villa at the quiet and elegant residential area of Rome’s southernmost ward. She put her sunglasses on, grabbed her gifts and got out of the car. The sun was shining and the air was humid but Amelia was waiting for her at the front door. The petite Italian woman looked beautiful and serene as ever in her carnation pink long dress and black d'Orsay.
“Emily, cara, sorry to drag you here all of a sudden”, Amelia kissed Emily’s cheeks. She lifted her brow and her lips curled in a small smile. “Those are for Nicolas?”
Emily smiled in return, “Yeah.” She squeezed Amelia’s hand, there were dark shadows under her eyes. She wanted to ask her questions but she held herself. Later will be soon enough.
Amelia took the fruit basket from her and led her inside the house. She always thought Willis’s house was big with its two living rooms, a personal library and six bedrooms but it was also cosy with the vines climbing up its pale brown walls outside, overstuffed sofas and chairs, vintage mirror frames and well-carved wooden tables and cabinets filled with small-framed family pictures and mementoes on top of them. The kitchen had a big window overlooking the garden, letting in cool air into the house. The whole villa was lined with trees, there were plants and flowers around it. It was a house where one can easily feel comfortable and nurtured. She knew this feeling, the house she grew up in had the same warmth to it.
After putting the fruits in the kitchen, Amelia led her to the library, where she said Nick was resting, waiting for her.
Nick was seated at one of the two overstuffed chairs near the window. He scowled at the flowers Emily was holding, making her grin.
“I’ll get a vase for that.” Amelia volunteered and left the room.
Emily walked towards Nick, inspecting him closely. She placed the flowers near the antique brass reading lamp on the small round table between the chairs. They were surrounded by Amelia’s eclectic collection of books on three sides of the wall, Nick’s own collection of photos of Formula A’s greatest drivers and miniature race cars, trophies and framed certificates. The big library also served as Nick’s office and the kids’ study room.
“You looked fine. I thought I was going to visit you in the hospital.”
“Nonsense! No one goes to the hospital for a stiff neck.” Nick boomed.
Nick was a big, lively man and one wouldn’t guess he was in his mid-fifties because of his abundant energy. Both Americans, he and her dad would often talk about US politics when they weren’t talking about engines during Sunday dinners. Sometimes, out of curiosity, she would stick around during their conversations, instead of playing with Nick’s three children, James and Stella were around her age but Angela was just a baby. Emily suddenly felt a tinge of guilt for not paying more attention to his dad’s closest friend outside of their working relationship.
“Do you remember Jim Stepney?” Nick asked her.
“Yeah, a bit. Saw him from time to time. He came over one time to talk to dad. Never saw dad riled up that much.”
“That would be about fifteen years ago. Your dad asked for his dismissal that year. Some confidential R&D documents got into the hands of BMMR and your dad had evidence Stepney was the one who gave them.”
Emily was just thirteen that time but she knew her dad was under stress as he was gone to a lot of meetings she was not allowed to tag along. She and her dad were inseparable because there was no one at home to take care of her and her dad didn’t want to leave her to a nanny unless absolutely necessary. She spent those months with a stern French woman, who forced her to read thick classic French novels so she could improve her mind, she said.
“Did that have something to do with your accident?”
It took a few minutes before Nick answered.
“I found out a few weeks ago that Sommer is Stepney’s son.” He sighed.
“The lug nuts on my car were loosened. I could feel there was something wrong and was lucky enough to spot an emergency bay before the left front wheel fell out.”
Emily’s mind was racing. Mark Sommer was her test driver. Although there’s a veiled arrogance in his manner, he was good at his job and could be a driver at one of the teams given an opportunity.
“I’m really glad you’re okay, Nick. I don’t think I’m ready for another big accident. But you’ll have to spell this out for me.”
Nick eyed her. His intelligent blue eyes reflected the understanding of what she meant. They both lost someone when Andrew Cole died. He gave her a small smile of assurance.
“Alright. I reported the loose nuts to the police and they’re investigating. I found out about Sommer’s paternity by accident. It shouldn’t have anything to do with my accident. But I wondered why he kept this secret, never mentioned it in his resume or to anyone in the team. I’ve been digging this ever since. He’d be fifteen when his dad got sacked. And if he’s looking for revenge then you might be in trouble too.”
Emily looked thoughtful. “If he was seeking revenge, why would he do it now? He’s been with the team for two years now.”
“That’s the question. It could be because he knew I was on to him and didn’t want things to get out. He thought his relationship to Stepney would taint him, so he hid this fact. He’d be right. Management would have never hired him if they knew he was Stepney’s son and if they knew about it now, they’d dismiss him because he kept this bit from them. In fact, Sommer would never be hired by anyone in FA.”
“Why wouldn’t he get hired just because he is someone’s son?” Emily asked, a bit outraged about the idea.
“You were too young to know then but what Stepney and his accomplice did cause BMMR $100 million in fines and the team championship. BMMR’s team principal also resigned. Cavallino had to write off everything from R&D that year, causing us more than a pretty penny. Those at the top have a long memory when it comes to these kinds of things and it would be too suspicious for Sommer to come knocking down for work from the place where his father was ostracized.” Nick explained.
Minutes of silence filled the library, each caught up in their own thoughts. Emily was processing what Nick told her and Nick was debating on whether his theory held any weight at all.
“Emily, I didn’t want to worry you on top of everything else. This could just be an old man’s folly but you’re working closely with Sommer and I don’t want to take any chances where your personal safety is concerned.”
Nick’s voice filled with concern made Emily smile in nostalgia. She reached out for Nick’s big hand and patted it.
“Don’t worry, old man. I’ll keep a sharp eye on Mark. If he, indeed, tampered with your car, then that’s a capital offence for me.”
Amelia chose to re-appear with her vase after a few minutes, eyeing both of them. She gave off a relieved countenance. Whatever was weighing her mind since her husband’s accident must have been dispelled when she saw the two.
“You can continue talking in the dining room, Nicolas. You’ll stay for lunch, Emily, won’t you?” Amelia turned her gaze to her while arranging the daisies.
“Happy to, I hope you made saltimbocca!” Emily said, her stomach already grumbling since she hasn't eaten anything all day. She heard Nick chuckle.
“Sorry dear, it’s beef and mortadella meatballs today.”
They headed towards the dining room, Nick and Emily discussing preparations for the upcoming Belgian race as. Emily stopped talking as her mouth watered when she saw the beautiful Caprese salad Amelia served.
“How’s Angela doing now? Did she get into the ballet school she was trying for?” Emily asked.
Nick grunted. The ballet school was in London and he didn’t want his baby girl to be alone in a city just because she said she was eighteen now and she can handle it.
Amelia, on the other hand, beamed and launched into the story of how Angela jumped up and down when she received her confirmation email.
Emily smiled. She thought she needed to invite herself back more and catch up with them outside work.
Monaco, Race to Heart: Text
CHAPTER 3
Melbourne, Saturday morning
After recovering from an exhausting twenty-seven-hour flight from Monaco Airport to Melbourne, Emily felt human again. She slept off her jet lag and the eight-hour time difference between the two cities. She checked in at a hotel near Melbourne Airport when she arrived on Friday night, her body refusing to move any further until she slept for the next twelve hours. She didn’t want Charles to fly her this time since she wanted to give him and Darlene a little break.
She was glad to wake up well-rested that Saturday morning before the siblings from hell dragged her all over Melbourne CBD during the next two days. Emily had to accompany Daniel who was following up on a list given by Claudine and re-approving flowers, laces, dresses, cakes, catering, wines, wedding tokens and all sorts of alcoholic drinks, making sure preparations were on schedule. Even though it would be a small wedding, the couple did want a cosy one and everyone to feel comfortable and fed.
She also had to follow Bella around through the shopping centres, boutiques and stalls while Daniel went to fetch Claudine from her workplace in the afternoon. She loved hanging out with Bella but the kid has so much energy she can't match. Emily only spent one hundred percent of her energy during practices and races but outside of that, she’s usually sluggish. But she really can't say no to anything Bella wants to do, especially when she turns on her puppy eyes at her partnered with a guilt trip about how she, Emily, doesn't visit or call her enough. She knew Bella didn’t have much time for herself since her internship and residency so they would end up with a handful of paper bags in each of their hands, giggling about every little thing and high on shopping spirit. Daniel would roll their eyes at them during dinner and Claudine would excitedly help them open their shopping bags as if unwrapping gifts on Christmas eve.
"I thought you don't like shopping, Cole." Daniel smirking while they were settling down for dinner at a cosy Italian restaurant on Federation Square on Sunday night.
"What? No, of course, she likes shopping, don't you Em?" Bella asked bewildered by the idea, her big brown eyes blinking at Emily.
"Of course I do, chérie. I especially like shopping with you." Emily assured, patting Bella's shoulder while looking daggers at Daniel, who was stifling a laugh, and Claudine pinching him at the side.
"And we needed to buy you some dresses for the wedding. You can't go there with your jeans and shirt, boys don't fall for that." Bella said as a matter of fact.
Daniel couldn't help laughing then. "Cole couldn't care less about boys, Belle. She'll just let them eat the dust from her car."
Emily smacked Daniel on the shoulder, making Bella giggle.
"Speaking of boys, Em you'll finally meet Sam on Tuesday. I don't know why you've both been friends with Daniel all these years and you haven't met yet." Claudine said. Emily just smiled. She was used to Daniel sometimes being thoughtless about such things as informing her that they’ve set a wedding date or introducing his friends to her.
"Oh yeah Sammy, he'll be the best man. For the record Emily, I would have wanted you both to be my best men but they say I can only have one and Sammy won the ballot." Daniel explained in an uncharacteristically sheepish manner. He only called her by her first name when he's embarrassed about something or when he's asking for a really big favour, which usually involved being his wingman.
"Don't worry about it, mate. I didn't even think about that. I've always assumed he'll take the role but your thoughtfulness always fills me with great joy." Emily teasing and flashing a wide grin at Daniel.
It's true, Emily didn't even think about the best man role or any of the wedding party. She was just happy to be by her friends' side and spend time with the family. It was an event she wouldn't miss even if it meant sitting at the back pews.
It's also true she didn't wear anything exciting aside from the casual jeans, shirt and summer dresses she owned. When they're at press conferences, drivers wore their team uniform and when they're at some party, Emily usually went for slacks or jeans because they were more comfortable and didn't attract attention. She'd rather stay home and curl up in her bed or sofa than paste a smile on her face for two hours and sip warm champagne. Daniel, as always, would drag her to these parties to unwind he said.
It's also very true that she didn't date. She was so focused on her career at the cut-throat elite sport that she didn't spare time for anything else. Not many people had the opportunity that she had, male or female drivers. Knowing this, she worked harder than what’s expected from her.
When her father died, dating was the last thing on her mind. Staying sane and avoiding killing herself were her top priorities. And when she got over the worst of her grief, she was just left exhausted. The truth was, aside from racing, she couldn't think of anything else she wanted to do with her life. She knew she can't race forever and that some young kid with more talent and energy would one day take her place. Her lack of future plans outside racing always filled her with panic and anxiety so all the more she avoided thinking about it.
She thought she didn't have anything worth living for aside from racing, unlike Daniel who's getting married and will have his own family soon. When Daniel said he was getting married, it lay open the emotional dependency of Emily on Daniel's friendship she was not consciously aware of. For Emily, every day was the same and she expected everyone she loved, no matter how small that circle was, to stay the same.
It was like after her father died, Emily's happiness and hopes for the future died with him and she was left abandoned, living life on autopilot. Emily never before stopped and thought about how she was coping with her grief and anger and for eight years, she was just going through the motions and the routines. How she loved routines and traditions, she knew what she expected from them and nothing was a great surprise.
But now was a wake-up call, she needed to take the reins and recreate herself again. She needed to learn what made her happy, to explore new places, to go out of her comfort zone and to learn how to empathize with other people.
"Earth to Cole, earth to Cole," Daniel said, waving a hand in front of her face.
Emily blinked in confusion and laughed. "Sorry, what were we talking about?"
"What were you thinking with a determined look on your face?" Daniel asked.
"Never you mind," Emily said. Daniel let out a dramatic sigh with his arms crossed.
"We were discussing who'll meet Elena and Gene at the airport tomorrow night. We've decided that you and Bella should meet them then we can meet later for tea." Claudine explained, referring to Daniel's parents.
"Sounds like a plan. I hope I'll be fat enough by Monday night so mama El wouldn't fuss so much."
"You know she'll fuss over you regardless," Bella said grinning at her.
And fuss she did. For Elena Richard, she has three children and two of them were risking their neck on the race tracks. She was extremely proud of Daniel and Emily and knew their talents needed to be lived out but she can't help her heart being stuck in her throat every time she watched them on Albert Park or on TV. It didn't matter to her that the pair have been racing for more than a decade now. Her husband would just pat her hand and smile at her in reassurance.
Elena knew Emily had no family other than a cousin and them, of course, even if they were not related by blood. When Daniel first brought Emily home a few months after her father died, Elena could see the lifeless stare on the poor girl's face and just like a lost pup, she made sure Emily felt she belonged with them now. Over the years, when she and her husband called their son, she made sure they also called Emily to check on her.
When Emily was with them during some summer and winter breaks, Elena would teach her how to cook from the old Italian recipe book she inherited from her mother. She was worried Emily was not taking care of herself and that no one aside from them was worried about Emily’s welfare.
Bella, who didn't have any interest in cooking, would drag Emily all over town for food trips, shopping and checking out guys on the beach or on the football field. When Daniel, Emily and Bella were not on the beach surfing or driving on the dirt trail, they were tagging along with Gene, who was checking on animal shelters and treating all sorts of animals. It was usually just Bella and Emily who tagged along as Daniel would often find himself playing football or hanging out with his childhood friends.
When Daniel and Claudine got together, Claudine would spend time with them on the Gold Coast or Daniel would just spend time with her in Melbourne when she can't get away from her work. It has been like this over the years and the Richard family cannot help but be protective of Emily, and Emily loved them with all the love that was left in her.
"You filled out a little and your hair grew longer too. Did you go for the hair treatment I told you about?" Elena asked Emily, putting her at arm’s length, inspecting her like one would do when buying a dress. Emily grinned at Elena as she linked her arm into hers while Bella and Gene were trailing behind them busy talking about her residency. They were about to exit the airport headed towards the taxi bay.
To Emily, who never had a woman figure growing up, Elena was the epitome of a lady and a mother. Elena's bella figura, form-fitting dresses, heeled shoes, classy makeup, impeccable kitchen and hand-crafted doilies were Emily's standards of a good woman and a good homemaker, things she knew she accepted that she lacked. To her, Elena's mothering helped keep her sane and grounded during the darkest moments of her life.
"El, you know drivers keep a strict diet and maximum weight. I also have a dietitian so don't worry too much, chère maman. As for my hair, I didn't do much about it, it just grew out on its own." Emily assured her. Emily was just two inches taller than Elena and her long, wavy raven black hair was in contrast with Elena's brown hair in a tight bun.
Emily has inherited her father's dark green eyes and straight nose and got her black hair and small oval-shaped face from her mother. She was tall and slender and could be skinnier if she wanted to become a model but her breasts and hips would be too much for the industry which preferred stick women. The press would often remark on the perfect and beautiful fusion of her American and Asian heritage but she didn't care about those. She cared about whether they thought her driving was perfect, not if her heart-shaped lips matched the rest of her face.
"Well then, it's a good thing we still have tomorrow and the next day before the wedding. We'll go to the hairdresser and spa." Elena said, patting Emily's linked arm.
"Did someone say spa?" Bella asked catching up with her mother and Emily, leaving her dad with the luggage.
While the mother and daughter made plans for tomorrow, Emily caught up with Gene. She loved talking to Gene and hearing his calming voice. Gene was laid back, loved his bourbon, footy and the animals he cared for. He didn't have any great ambition aside from seeing his family safe and happy. It was from him that Emily learned to appreciate all kinds of animals, not just puppies and kittens.
While Elena was overprotective, strict and straightforward, Gene was willing to let his children make their own mistakes and learn on their own. He was the one who let Daniel into his first go-kart without any practice or baby steps, which earned him an earful from his wife. It turned out Daniel had the talent for it so that ended well.
“Come on Dad, Em, the Uber driver’s waiting.” Bella was already at the pick-up zone with Elena, waving at them. “We’re walking as fast we can, Bella dear,” Gene said with a patient smile. After a few more minutes of loading the luggage into the back of the sedan, they were on their way to meet Daniel and Claudine for dinner. Emily could feel her excitement at the coming days already bubbling.
Monaco, Race to Heart: Text
CHAPTER 4
Ballarat, Victoria
It was a bit of a gamble to hold the wedding outdoors of an 1860s bluestone homestead with the August winter air of Ballarat. Emily was not about to question Daniel and Claudine about the wisdom of their choice on the day of their wedding though. Thankfully, the sun was still shining at three in the afternoon when the ceremony started, heating up the frozen surroundings a bit and giving the location a very rustic, dreamy backdrop. The wedding was held at an idyllic location on the banks of a beautiful spring-fed dam with wild ducks swimming in the background. It has sloping manicured lawns, seemingly transporting the guests into a romantic sanctuary.
Emily was seated on the second row with the parents and elders of the bride and the groom on the first row. The bride and the groom were standing, facing the celebrant in front of the farm dam, framed by twisted vines and white, pink flowers with the setting sun on their left. The bridesmaids, including Bella, and groomsmen were flanking the couple on each side. About sixty guests were invited, most women were seated on the rows of white chairs and the men, mostly Daniel's childhood friends and cousins, were standing at the back. Claudine wanted a white winter wedding and though the snow did not fall, scattered pink and white flowers, women on their white dress and men on their black tuxedo made the wedding elegant and dreamy. The bride's off-shoulder vintage white wedding dress with its full tulle train layered with laces completed the scene.
The ceremony was nearing the end when Emily finally looked around, trying to subtly find out why she felt like someone was staring at her. Her gaze locked with Samuel Judd, Daniel's best man and other best friend.
She didn't understand why the man would stare at her with an inscrutable look on his face when all he did was size her up and grunted a nice to finally meet you when Daniel introduced them this morning. Daniel was blissfully unaware of the awkwardness between the two as he chatted away his excitement for his wedding. He might have assumed that his two closest friends would, of course, be friends too despite not meeting each other during the whole time Emily knew Daniel.
It was incredible not meeting someone close to your friend in the thirteen years of your friendship. Emily did not really think about this until she met Samuel earlier. Maybe because she and Samuel belonged to different parts of Daniel’s life. Daniel talked about his other friends, including Samuel, and she also met most of his childhood friends when she was in the Gold Coast but as circumstances would have it, Samuel was always somewhere else when she was in town or he would just meet Daniel somewhere else in the city. He never showed up when she was vacationing at Daniel’s house.
She also saw some high school pictures of Daniel, Samuel and their other friends. In the old pictures, Emily saw a young, grinning Samuel, who looked to be over six feet, lanky with windblown hair. She was a bit surprised by the older version of the man when they were introduced. She was used to seeing handsome men as Monaco and the racing teams were full of them but she felt there was something in Samuel that she found more attractive than those men she knew or met. She couldn't figure out if it was his swept-back short sand brown hair, his wide shoulders, well-toned muscled arms clinging to his black suit, big hands, narrow hips or his intense amber eyes and pronounced cheekbones framed by his squared jawline. He looked like a rugby player and a model of GQ.
Was borderline rude, dangerous-looking and testosterone-laden men her type? Not that she ever cared enough to find out before. She always thought her type were geeky, attractive, kind-faced men who wear eyeglasses. What did she know? She only flirted once with a practice driver when she was seventeen, and that's the extent of her romantic affiliation.
She was so wrapped up in her racing career and personal demons, she didn't meet and get to know men for romantic reasons. This was so unbelievable since men surrounded her all her life. She grew up with her dad and the racing teams were full of men of different looks, backgrounds and professions. Her best friend was a guy for Christ's sake! That realization made her think over her social skills. If she was to re-invent herself then making more friends and getting romantically-interested in men should be on her list. Wait, what if she was also interested in other girls all this time? This made her grin inwardly, not that she would willingly grin at the man who was holding her gaze for longer than polite.
Emily turned her attention back to the ceremony just in time for the exchange of rings and the kiss. She shook herself mentally, trying to get back her focus on the happy occasion, which was making her rethink her life choices all too much. Why was that man staring at her? Should she ask him later?
Emily got her eyes and mind back to the bride and groom. Claudine looked like an older sister of that actress Lily Collins, albeit taller and more athletic. Her auburn hair was gathered in a stylish messy low bun with a few loose wavy tendrils. Daniel looked dashing and princely in his tuxedo, styled brown hair and smoothly shaved face, his wicked smile totally focused on his blushing bride. When Daniel introduced Claudine to her after their race in Monaco four years ago, Emily had the feeling that Daniel was not fooling around. Before then, Daniel didn’t think it was important to introduce any of his girlfriends to her or his family. And now look at where these two are?
When the congratulations and hundreds of pictures were given and taken, the wedding party proceeded to the wedding hall for the reception and early dinner. The stone pathways leading to the hall were lined up with lanterns, setting up a fairytale-like wedding event.
Emily was walking alone towards the hall making sure she won't fall off her three-inch strappy heels. She was wearing a V-shaped off-shoulder satin dress, accenting her narrow waist with a full skirt resting above her knees. Her raven black hair was loose and stylishly wavy, reaching the middle of her back. She was a bit conscious about her attire since she didn't wear these kinds of dresses often let alone high heels. She also thought about her exposed arms and hands, which were more toned than most women whose arms looked soft. You can't really expect your arms and hands to stay soft-looking when you're driving a race car almost every day of the week. Elena, in her infinite wisdom, told her earlier when they were dressing up that confidence is the most attractive thing a woman can wear so Emily was now living by that, keeping her chin up while trying not to walk awkwardly.
Emily was halfway through the hall when she suddenly heard a man clearing his throat. She turned around to find Samuel looking at her with the same inscrutable face. Samuel extended his hand to her clutching a black coat. Emily looked at the black coat then back to his face with a confused look. She didn't remember having a coat with her.
"Take it, it's bloody chilly," Samuel said in his deep voice, walking towards her and closing the distance between them. Emily was standing still, momentarily stunned by the offer, she didn't know how to respond.
"Ah, it's alright, thanks. We're almost to the hall anyway."
"Take it. I don't want to explain to Danny why you're chilled to death." Samuel looked at her like she was an idiot, not wearing something warmer in the winter.
"You're not my keeper and I can take care of myself." Emily snapped.
Samuel maintained his poker face, wrapped his coat around Emily and walked away. Emily was left unable to respond. She tensed up when his knuckles brushed against her bare shoulders. She didn't know if she should go after Samuel, who was now ahead of her and throw the coat at his back. For one, she was not an ungrateful bitch, no matter how the conversation riled her up. And another, she didn't want Elena's disapproving high school teacher glare, which always made her cringe if she found out she made an unnecessary scene.
When she reached the hall, Emily looked around with a smile plastered on her face. She searched the small seated crowd for Bella who she was supposed to sit with. She saw Bella waving at her. Their round table was near the square table of the bride and groom, who were busy talking and smiling at each other. Emily, who was focused on Bella, approached the table, removed the unwanted but needed coat, hung it on her forearm, smoothed her full satin skirt and sat down on the empty chair on Bella's right.
"Where have you been, Em? You were gone so long I thought you wanted to skip the reception!" Bella said in a pout.
Emily chuckled at Bella's drama. "Apologies, chérie. I was trying not to walk like a duck in these terrible heels. Why did I ever let you talk me into buying this dress and shoes?"
"But Em, those look perfect on you! Many of the guys were already asking me who my 'new twin' was. It was disappointing for me!"
"There, there chérie, you look very beautiful in your dress and those guys are blind." Emily soothed Bella, who was wearing a shorter version of her dress. Bella was the younger version of her mother, needless to say, beautiful and tall. Her and Daniel’s Italian and Australian heritage were blended beautifully. Bella also seemed to have an endless supply of boys trying to catch her heart. Good thing Bella kept a cool head when flirting with guys who do catch her attention. She knew she wanted to become a doctor and not even her playful and sunny disposition can distract her from her goal.
Dinner was already underway when Emily finally looked around their table, saying hi to cousins and friends who were part of the wedding entourage. She was startled to see that Samuel was the one seating on her left. Emily schooled her expression to hide her surprise, trying not to visibly gulp as Samuel turned his head to her direction with another unsmiling face.
"Thanks for lending me your coat." Emily gave the coat back to him. Samuel just nodded, giving off the impression he did not want to talk to her unless absolutely necessary. Emily groaned inwardly. It would be an awkward night. Bella was already busy chatting with Daniel's friend Connor, a professional footballer, so she just shut up and focused on her food.
The night wore on and soon speeches and dancing were underway while wine, beer and other drinks were being consumed at an Australian pace. Daniel and Claudine had their first dance with Norah Jones' silky smooth voice in the background. Most of the guests were on the dance floor, including Belle with Connor and the rest of the people on their table. Emily felt awkward again as she and Samuel were the only ones left at their table. After a few minutes, Samuel got up and headed towards the exit door.
Emily wondered if Daniel said something about her to Samuel, which Samuel found distasteful. Was dancing with her that repulsive? Did she even want Samuel to ask her to dance? She can't decide if enduring a dance with Samuel was much better than being stuck at a party like a wallflower. She didn't care about these things, why was she caring about it now?
Emily was busy playing a racing mobile game app on her phone while the wedding party was dancing the night away when she felt someone standing behind her chair. She turned her head and looked up and found Samuel standing.
"Do you want to dance?" Samuel asked in his deep rich voice.
"No, it's okay. I can't dance." Emily shrugged and turned her attention back to her phone. She was approached by some guys earlier asking her to dance and she gave them a smile and the same excuse. She only danced with Gene and Claudine's dad and grandfather. She knew she should be enjoying herself on the joyous occasion. Should she drink more wine to loosen up? She rarely drinks due to her profession so she didn't know what alcohol can do to her.
Emily was startled when a long arm crossed the side of her face, reached over to her phone, gently removed it from her hands and placed it on the table. The big calloused hand took hold of her left hand and she could feel a curious tingling in her spine. She looked up and Samuel's amber eyes were focused on her face.
"Come on, I don't want to explain to Danny why you were bored shitless on his own wedding day."
Before Emily could collect herself, she was being pulled by Samuel to the dance floor. She stared at the big hand wrapping her hand and prayed Samuel didn't notice she was trembling a bit. She can't understand her reaction to this man. She slowly recognized Dave Matthews Band's Crash Into Me playing in the background. It was one of her favourites but God help her, she really didn't know how to dance. She never danced and teaching her to dance was the last item on her dad’s list.
Emily turned her face up and looked at Samuel, who was taller than her five-eight. Samuel was giving her another one of his intense gazes, his bright gold eyes boring into her. His arms were enveloping her and her hands were at his neck. She can feel her body warming up and tingling at the areas where she can feel Samuel. She wanted to unfold her palm and feel Samuel's neck and hair. Whoa, where did that come from?
Emily can feel her cheeks turning red. She bit her lower lip and looked down, finding herself facing a wide expanse of chest straining from his light blue dress shirt. She had the sudden urge to rub her cheek and sigh into that strong chest. No! She needed to stop thinking about these kinds of thoughts. It was useless and just confusing her. One minute she was put off with Samuel's curtness and unsmiling face and another minute she was finding herself intensely attracted to the man. This was too much for Emily's heart and mind to cope with. The only things which made her excited were races and winning, men never factored in her excitement scale.
Daniel was waving at them from his table with Claudine, grinning from ear to ear. Samuel nodded while Emily smiled and waved back. She was happy seeing Daniel's happiness and Claudine's glow. She was still smiling when she looked up at Samuel, who seemed to be gazing at her bare shoulders with an unreadable face. Seriously, what goes on on this guy's mind, Emily can't tell. She was ready to combust and he was still cool as a cucumber. He hasn't spoken a word to her since they started swaying to the music, which was blessedly ending.
Samuel led her back to her chair when the song ended and went out of the hall without saying anything to her. Emily sighed, she could have initiated a conversation with him. She could do that at least despite her malnourished social skills but she couldn't think of anything interesting to say with her body constantly betraying her whenever he was near. Thank God, Bella was back on her chair with Connor and the others.
Emily opted to put Samuel at the back of her mind and start working on her conversation skills with agreeable people. She put her big girl shoes on, plastered a smile and started getting into conversations with those on her table. Bella also dragged her to introduce some of their older relatives at her parents' table. Elena seemed to be glad Emily was making her way around and Gene gave her a bright smile and a hug. When she saw Samuel enter the hall and went to sit at another table, she started to think that somehow, for an unknown reason, Samuel didn't like her at all.
When Daniel and Claudine said their thanks and goodbyes to their guests near midnight, Emily also made her way to Elena and Gene to say goodnight. Most of the guests will be driving back to Melbourne but the immediate family of the newly-weds, including Emily, will be staying at the homestead for the night.
Emily was thankful for this as she was a bit mentally tired and her poor feet were aching. Elena and Gene were chatting with some of their relatives staying at nearby hotels and they waived Emily off after giving her tight hugs. Seeing them both happy made Emily also happy. Elena was forever nagging Daniel and Emily that she wanted grandkids to spoil. She gave up on Emily, who made it clear dating was the last thing on her mind and focused on Daniel when he introduced Claudine to them. It seemed Elena will soon have her wishes if the couple were agreeable to her timeline.
Emily still had her smile on her face when she went out of the hall. She paused to feel the fresh winter air on her face, hoping she won't be too chilly before she reached the two-bedroom apartment at the back of the homestead which she'll be sharing with Bella. Emily thought it was good to see Bella relaxing and carefree. She worked doubly hard to be able to take at least two days off for her brother’s wedding.
Bella might stay up later than Emily was as she and Connor seemed to be cosy. Maybe I could have tried to flirt more, I'll try harder at Bella's wedding, Emily thought, making herself grin. Bella wouldn't be getting married in the near future and did this mean Emily will still be single then? Emily shook her head and a soft chuckle escaped her. At least she can entertain herself if she was on her way to spinsterhood.
Something caught Emily's peripheral as she was smoothing the imaginary creases of her skirt. She looked to her left and Samuel was there leaning on the wall a few metres away from her. He was on his cellphone when he turned and looked at Emily. Emily gave him a small smile, said goodnight brightly and started her way to the apartment, not wanting to wait for Samuel's reaction.
Emily did not walk that far when the thin heel of her left shoe got stuck in the small space between the flat rock pathway causing her ankle to twist and there she went to the ground, crying out in pain and surprise. Goddammit, she knew these heels would kill her before the night was over. She slowly stretched her left foot to inspect the damage. Her left ankle was throbbing. She went on to remove her shoes, she’d better walk barefoot to avoid more damage than a sprain.
She was halfway getting up when two large hands gripped her waist and pulled her up gently. She turned her head to see the familiar golden eyes with brows furrowed. "Are you okay?" A look of worry was gone in a blink, Emily thought it was her imagination. Ignoring the warm sensation gathering on her waist when Samuel let her go, Emily stood up on her right foot with her shoes on her hand.
"Yeah, I'm okay. Just a stupid fall. Sorry to make you run out here." Emily said in a low breathless voice and tried not to wince in pain when she put her weight on her left foot.
Samuel raised his brow. He crouched and inspected Emily's left foot. "Your ankle is swollen, you can't walk with it if you don't want to damage it further," Samuel said in a flat voice. "Where are you staying?"
"At the back of the homestead," Emily said in a small voice, trying to figure out how to get there. She agreed with Samuel but she can't figure out her options at the moment without needing to call Elena and Gene.
"Put your hand on my neck, I'll take you to your room." Samuel didn't give Emily time to let his offer sink in when he bent and picked her up.
Emily wriggled in surprise. "No, it's okay. I'll just give Gene a call."
"I'm already here, no need to bother anyone. I don't want to explain to Danny why you’re crying on the ground.”
Did he think I was being a bother? Did I fall over just to bother him? Did Daniel sign me to this man's care? Emily was near seething. She shook her head, she needed to keep a level head, no need to get riled up when she was the one being helped. She sneaked a look at the abrupt man carrying her, ignoring the feel of his strong arms around her. His face was still unreadable. Did this man have any emotions at all?
Samuel set her down at the edge of the bed of the nearest room. He glanced at her as if to inspect then left the room without saying a word, not even bothering to close the door behind him. Emily stared at his back and didn't know what to think. She sighed and lay on the soft bed, her body starting to release the tension she was bottling up since Samuel picked her up.
She relaxed for a few minutes and got up to check on her ankle. It was still warm, throbbing and getting swollen. She needed an ice pack quick and she didn't know how to get it. She was just about to call Bella to bring her an ice pack when she sensed a large frame approaching her.
Samuel was holding something wrapped in a dishcloth when he went over to kneel on the hardwood floor beside Emily's feet.
"You need to ice this for twenty minutes every two hours or so for the next two days," Samuel explained. He lifted Emily's feet and gently placed the ice pack on her sprained ankle.
"I know Mr. Judd. Thank you for helping me, I didn't intend to be a burden." Emily said politely.
Samuel grunted, put the ice pack in Emily’s hand.
"You're welcome Ms. Cole. I'll find more ice."
Emily didn't stop him, she was so tired to refuse his help. She continued to press the ice pack on her ankle and contemplated on her bad luck. It wasn't that bad, at least someone helped her even if that person looked to be unenthusiastic about the job.
Emily got off the phone when Samuel returned with a bucket of ice. He placed it on the bedside table and lifted the table to the side of the bed where Emily was sitting.
"I called Bella to come and help me out a bit. I really can't thank you enough Mr. Judd for your kindness and I don't want to keep you longer." Emily expressed her sincere thanks to the man despite her general opinion of him.
Samuel nodded, "It's fine, no big deal. I was waiting for Connor to drive him home anyway."
The few minutes of awkward silence were shattered by Bella's chatter and Connor's laugh. As soon as Bella saw Emily, she rushed to her side, inspecting her.
"What happened to you, Em? Does your ankle hurt that much?" Bella rambled, expertly checking on her foot. Connor and Samuel were talking in soft voices near the door.
"I'm fine, Belle. I just needed you to bring Connor here. Samuel needs to go home with him." Emily nodded to the two tall men standing.
"Oh, we were talking for long, weren’t we? I didn't notice the time until you called me. Connor is just so..." Bella was whispering in such a dreamy voice that Emily can't help but smile.
Emily squeezed Bella's hand and Bella smiled at her shyly. Emily grinned, Bella was not the one to feel shy about anything.
"Belle, we need to head out. Samuel needs his beauty sleep." Connor said smiling at Bella. Samuel was not amused with the excuse if his arched brow was any indication.
Bella reached out her hand to Connor and Connor pulled her up from the edge of the bed. "I'll walk you to the car. I won't be long, Em."
Emily nodded, smiling at the pair who was walking out the door hand in hand.
"Good night Ms. Cole, I hope all goes well with your ankle," Samuel said in a low surprisingly soothing Australian accent with his golden eyes looking at her intently.
"Good night Mr. Judd, I can't thank you enough. I'll be in the Gold Coast till next week if I can treat you to coffee or something..." Emily wanted to swallow back her offer as soon as she said it. Did she really want to do anything more with this confusing man? She bit her lip and looked down before she could say anything else she will regret. When she didn’t hear any reply, she looked up at where Samuel was standing. The man was staring at her as if trying to figure out her offer. He finally nodded, his lips curved in a smile as she closed the door behind him.
Monaco, Race to Heart: Text
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