ALICE Ch 263

The hotel in Hungary is actually one of the nicest and most interesting that Alice has stayed at. The vibes in the hotel make her want to have a little more self-respect, so she dresses like she gives a damn the night before qualifiers instead of just throwing on the FUTA polo and visor like usual.

It’s more than a little weird to have dinner with Glynda instead of Faye, but things have warmed up between them quite a bit. Without words, Glynda has understood and accepted where Alice’s head is. Alice has resigned herself to this season, but that is the limit of her loyalty. It’s bittersweet, and it isn’t completely positive. Energy and vibes mean something in sports, and Alice doesn’t have the pep and the hunger that she had when she had been standing on podiums. It’s possible they can get back to that. Alice is just going with it when she should be chomping at the bit.

Glynda gets it and appears to respect it. She’d rather deal with this than with having to bring in a new driver.

The hotel restaurant is full of F1 people.

“Why do you keep looking at them?” Alice asks, seeing Glynda warily eying the Woodcock sisters.

“Because they keep looking at you.”

“I’m not going to cheat on Faye with the Woodcock sisters. Although if I was going to cheat, I guess twins wouldn’t be the worst way.”

“I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that. Just like I pretend that I don’t hear half of what you say, Alice.”

“Thanks, Mommy.”

“Don’t call me that.”

“You aren’t the boss of me. Hang on, goddammit.” Alice wipes her mouth and throws her napkin down, getting to her feet with a groan.

Lora’s leaving the restaurant with a beautifully boxed meal. She never eats around other people. Alice catches up to her by the elevator.

“Lora.”

“Oh. Hello,” Lora replies awkwardly.

“I owe you an apology.”

Lora is startled, but that only lasts a moment. Alice envies her poise.

“I cocked it up,” Lora replies.

“Maybe. But that doesn’t make it okay for me to go off on you. You didn’t deserve that. I’m sorry.” Alice shrugs with a pained look. “I don’t know what else to say.”

Lora just stares at her. “It’s all right. Really. Thank you.”

“If you’re mad, I understand. If I could take it back, I would. But you’re doing great with Mio. It’s not your fault that she doesn’t listen to you. I don’t want to try to steal you back. We don’t need more shakeups around here. You know?”

Lora nods. “I understand. Thank you, Alice.”

“OK. I guess I’ll let you eat in peace.” Alice waves and heads back to the restaurant.