Driven by Desire

2 ~ Melbourne

Oscar's homecoming was upon him. His home race in Melbourne was one of the races he was looking forward to the most, partially because he loves the challenge of the Albert Park Circuit but also the fact that the majority of the Piastri clan would be packed into his garage to cheer him on. As Oscar entered the pretty much empty paddock on Wednesday to see how his engineers were doing, he spotted Charles Leclerc wandering to the empty Ferrari hospitality.

O - Hey Charles.

C - Oh... Hi Oscar, you startled me then.

O - Sorry! How are you doing?

C - Ah, I'm doing okay, I am just checking in on the crew.

O - Oh same. I grew up here in Melbourne so I know what its like on race week, always hectic but I'm glad I can experience it first hand.

C - Is the circuit ready?

O - Yes and no. Most of it will be, the light checks happen tomorrow when we do the track walk but its still open right now to the public.

C - Fancy a drive?

O - Oh sure. My car or yours?

C - Yours. I am a passenger princess.

O - Of course you are!

As Oscar and Charles left the paddock and entered the car park, it suddenly dawned on Charles that he may have made the wrong decision. In Oscar's car space sat a pretty old Volkswagen Golf.

C - I thought you would have a McLaren?

O - This is Joey. He's the first car I got from my parents. He lives here in Melbourne and my McLaren will live at home in Britain when I eventually get it.

C - Are you saying they haven't got you a McLaren yet?

O - I have ordered it, I am customising it so it takes time.

C - Ah okay!

O - Come on then, jump in.

The excitement was palpable as they zoomed down Melbourne's streets, Charles couldn't help but marvel at the cityscape, from the stunning skyline to the lush parks that seemed to punctuate every neighborhood.

Their first stop was Melbourne's iconic coffee culture. Oscar took Charles to a cosy café tucked away in a narrow laneway, where the aroma of freshly roasted beans enveloped them. They sat at a rustic wooden table, sipping on flat whites.

O - This is the very place where I was told I was going to be a Formula 1 driver, it holds very dear memories to me and the staff are so friendly!

Next, Piastri guided Leclerc to the Queen Victoria Market, one of Melbourne's largest and liveliest markets. They strolled through the bustling alleys, sampling fresh produce, gourmet delicacies, and exotic spices from around the world. Charles couldn't resist trying some Australian bush tucker – kangaroo skewers, emu burgers, and crocodile sausages.

C - Mhmm, these are delicious.

As they continued their tour, Oscar pointed out some of Melbourne's architectural wonders, such as Federation Square, the Arts Centre, and the historic Flinders Street Station. He shared stories about the city's history and the events that had shaped its vibrant culture.

The day wasn't complete without a visit to St. Kilda Beach. They basked in the sun, watching surfers ride the waves and kiteboarders soar above the water. Oscar even introduced Charles to a quintessential Aussie treat – fish and chips. They sat on the beach, munching on crispy, golden-fried fish while seagulls swooped overhead.

Finally, as the sun began to set, Piastri took Leclerc to the Eureka Skydeck. From the 88th floor, they had a breathtaking panoramic view of Melbourne bathed in twilight. Charles couldn't help but snap a few pictures of the city's glittering lights and the Yarra River winding through the urban landscape.

As they stood there, overlooking the city they had come to adore, Leclerc turned to Piastri with a grin.

C - Wow... Melbourne is so so beautiful.

O - Melbourne is more than just a city; it's a feeling, a culture, and a home to me.

C - I have really enjoyed today... thank you.

O - Charles, you're welcome.