Chapter 3: The Mask Falls
The realization hit Vanessa like a physical blow. The "mechanic" she had treated like a glorified janitor was the man who held the keys to the entire racing empire. She watched, horrified, as Julian opened the folder. It contained the contract that would decide the fate of every driver, team manager, and sponsor for the next decade.
"You mentioned Preston," Julian said, his voice quiet but carrying clearly across the silent lounge. "My lead driver."
Vanessa’s heart sank into her stomach. "Julian... I... I didn't know. It was a misunderstanding. I thought you were just..."
"A mechanic," Julian finished for her, not smiling. "I enjoy the work. It keeps me grounded. Unfortunately, it seems I’m the only one here who appreciates the value of what lies beneath the surface."
He turned to the Racing Director. "The sponsorship deal for Team Velocity. Has it been signed yet?"
May you like
"Not yet, sir. You requested to review the primary driver's contract first."
"Cancel it," Julian commanded, his eyes turning to ice. "If the lead driver’s judgment of character is as poor as his partner's, I don't want his face on my brand."
