The mechanics and the whole paddock seemed to be already packing for the next stop in the racing calendar: Jeddah. 
"There you are!" I suddenly heard a loud but sweet voice calling, "I've been looking everywhere for you."
I raised my sight and saw Mona approaching, "Hey, girl." I greeted the curly woman, "How does it feel to be on the winning team of the day?"
"I don't want to sound egocentric, but I'm used to it by now." She answered and we laughed together.  
"Modest, huh?" I scoffed. 
"Work for the team where Max Verstappen races and you'll understand it one day." 
"I'm happy with Ferrari, so I don't think that could ever happen." I said proudly.
Even if my time with the team had been short, I was quickly developing a sweet affection for it. And a strong sense of belonging. 
"Never say never, girl." Mona shrugged, "But anyways, that's not what I wanted to talk to you about." She seemed excited, "My brother, other drivers and I, we wanted to go out and celebrate the start of the season. And yesterday that we talked, I really liked you and I bet they'll like you too. So, do you want to come?"
"You mean, going out, like right now?" 
"Well, of course not, silly." She said with a sassy voice, "We all have to go bathe and change, and then, we go out." 
"I don't know, Mona." I said unsure, "I have to take a plane to Jeddah tomorrow at midday."
Since the next race was only a week away, we couldn't waste any time. 
"I have to be in Jeddah in less than twenty four hours too and I'm still going."  She tried to convince me, "Besides, I already told Lando I would bring you over and he's excited to meet you." 
"I don't know." I was still hesitant. 
"Oh, please, Aspen." Mona insisted, "We'll only go out for a few drinks and that'll be it. Nothing too crazy. Please, please, please."
A part of me knew I should've said no. It was irresponsible to stay out late when I knew damn well that I needed to be ready in the morning. But I also wanted to go out and explore the city a bit more, have fun. 
After a quick and perhaps, a not so reasonable thinking, I accepted, "Fine, I'll see you later."
***
I had absolutely no idea what to wear for a night out with Formula 1 drivers in Bahrein.
My first paycheck had arrived a few weeks ago, and it had been extremely generous; the perks of working in such a prestigious industry. So, I had acquired a few garments that were more classy and sophisticated, since I needed to look the part. 
I ended up deciding  to go with a tight, knee-length, white dress. It was fresh but elegant, and it made my figure look good. My dark hair was down in waves and I did a simple makeup.
Once I was ready, I went down to the lobby of the hotel we were staying to see Mona and the others. I was nervous to meet new people, especially other drivers that weren't Charles or Carlos, but I was also excited.
"Oh, my God! You look amazing." Mona rushed to me and embraced me as soon as she spotted me, as if we had been friends for a long time.
"Thanks." I smiled at her, "You don't look bad yourself."
"You think so?" She asked as she twirled, showing off her outfit. She was wearing long and wide black pants with a short white satin blouse, that made her look taller than she actually was. Her hair was loose; her wild curls almost reached her waist. She truly was beautiful.