AN: Why yes, you're not mistaken, it's an actual update! I'm sorry I haven't updated this story in a while but other projects (incentives for Klaroline Gives Back and Save Klaroline Magazine) took up some of my time, plus real life likes to interfere as well. But thank you so much for your support and reviews prompting me to update - it really motivates me :)

We've arrived at first race of the season - Melbourne, Australia. Hope you like!


Chapter 3


"I am an artist. The track is my canvas, and the car is my brush."

Graham Hill (1929-1975)


[Round 1: Sunday, 15th March 2015, Melbourne, Australia]

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Round 1 of the World Championship, you're here with Martin Oakfield, James Conway and Sky Sports News. It's hot and sunny here in Melbourne, the track perfect for racing. With over 3 miles and 16 turns, Albert Park Circuit will be the witness of Klaus Mikaelson's debut in his new team, Forbes Racing. The new management's decision to draft this talented, if not a little reckless driver, stirred some controversy among the media. Especially since Mikaelson is set to replace Mason Lockwood, who opted not to prolong his contract with FRT and end his career in motorsport and who, up to this day, remains one of the most successful drivers of Formula 1. And now, just an hour before the race, we have an unique opportunity to talk with Caroline Forbes, daughter of William Forbes and the new team manager of FRT."

"Caroline, pleasure to see you again. I know how busy these last moments are for you so we'll make sure to only take a few minutes of your time. Yesterday's qualifying turned out with great results for you, what are your predictions for the race?"

"Hello, Martin, James," she nodded towards her interviewers. "Yes, with Enzo's pole position and Klaus right behind him in the 2nd place, we do hold some advantage over other teams. But it would be reckless to count our chickens before they hatch, so to speak. There are many variables to take into consideration and a great many things, you just cannot predict. We have Ferrari right behind us so it will still be a tough race," she recited, careful not to reveal anything of importance.

Nodding, her interviewers went on. "Now, since I'm sure everyone is dying to know this - can you tell us how did the team arrive at the decision of your newest hire?" Martin's features were schooled into those of professional politeness and subtle curiosity.

With a trained smile, Caroline repeated the answer she had prepared hours ago, "It is known that with Mason's decision - a decision I absolutely respect, by the way - Forbes Racing has been left in a tough spot. We've considered a number of candidates but in the end, I realized no one would be a better fit for our team than Klaus. We share the same passion, which is racing our hearts out straight to the top and that's what we'll do."

"However, you cannot deny that this draft echoed as somewhat controversial amidst the industry. What was your father's reaction to this?"

"It might have been controversial, yes. But we're certain, I'm certain, that it will pay off. As for my father's opinion, he is naturally entitled to one, nevertheless, he entrusted his legacy in me and I'm the one who needs to make the decisions. One of these decisions was hiring Klaus Mikaelson as our second driver and I have no reason to believe his performance will be anything short of stellar. As for all the gossips and concerns, it will do good to remember that my father didn't claw his way to the top of Formula 1 by playing nice. If anyone understands the necessity to make bold moves to stay ahead, it's him." Her voice was steady and polite but there was also a sliver of steel lingering there, making Martin and James exchange looks that were half-amused, half-impressed.

"One last question, if you please, Caroline." It was James' turn to speak, his eyes carrying a glint of laughter. "Mikaelson's statements at driver's press conference yesterday certainly raised a few eyebrows. Any comment on that?"

Caroline pursed her lips. Crap.

Of course they would ask about that. Crap, crap, crap.

Klaus-bloody-Mikaelson was ruining her life.


[Saturday, 14th March 2015, post - qualifying press conference]

Her face adorned with a mask of polite indifference, Caroline stood by the door watching Enzo, Klaus and Marcel answer questions that were more or less relevant to today's results.

She was pleased, there was no denying that. First two spots on the grid? It was an excellent outcome, one she hadn't dared to wish for. Not for that first race. But it would do no good to show any signs of relief, no matter how happy she was feeling right now. Qualifying was only one of the many, many steps they had to take successfully to finish with a satisfying result.

And winning was the only result that mattered.

Subtly, Caroline glanced at Klaus, who was in a centre of attention, much to his pleasure. The smugness was just rolling off in waves from him.

"Sharon Radley, Network Ten. Klaus, you've qualified second for your first race for FRT. Are you feeling optimistic for tomorrow?"

"I prefer to remain realistic, it spurs on better results. And I do intend to do far better next time," he drawled in a dangerously low tone, shooting a quick look at Enzo, who had taken a pole position.

Reporters' attention shifted to a dark-haired man sitting in the centre. "Giacomo Alessi, Sportitalia. Lorenzo, that was one brilliant lap today. Do you feel more confident now, as a first driver in your team?"

"I don't know, mate, I wouldn't say I've ever lacked confidence." Came the wry retort.

Caroline snorted under her nose. He didn't lack it one bit. But she didn't like whatever flashed in Klaus' eyes when that journalist called Enzo the first driver. It looked like one hell of a lot of trouble.

"Now to you, Marcel. It seems like Ferrari is a bit behind Forbes Racing in terms of speed. What do you make of your third place today?"

A dark-skinned man peered to his left, straight at Klaus, instead of looking at the reporter. "Well, I certainly don't intend to stay behind for long." His cheerful expression didn't fool anyone, least of all Mikaelson, whose lips thinned in tamed anger.

"And back to you, Klaus. You've just said you prefer to be a realist. What about pre-race rituals, do you have any or is it too superstitious for you?" Came Sharon's next question.

His mouth stretching in an arrogant grin, he turned on the charm again. "Of course I do. I believe every racer does, love," he claimed, winking at the brunette reporter.

If anyone guessed Caroline felt that strange twist in her stomach at seeing Klaus flirt with some random woman, she would deny it with all her might. It was probably that sushi she had eaten yesterday. Or something.

"Care to share it with us?" the reporter prodded further.

"Well, for one I tend to do a lot of sketching before the race. It's soothing. As for rituals, I did name my car yesterday. I fancy it might bring me a good fortune." His eyes sparked with mischief.

"Oh? And what's the lucky name?"

Very deliberately, Klaus turned his head in Caroline's direction. "Caroline," he smirked.


A model of politeness, she replied in a controlled voice, "See, James, the thing is I may provide the car but it is the driver's prerogative to name it. You'll have to ask Mr. Mikaelson for his reasoning. Now excuse me, duty calls." Parting with a smile, that was just a tad too saccharine to be genuine, Caroline turned away and strode towards FRT garage.

"Thank you for your time!"

Waving a hand as a means of response, she tried to keep her pace, seething inside. Klaus' little stunt had already turned into a treat for press. Gossip would start circulating soon, it was a sure bet.

The arrogant prick was already disrupting her life.

He'd better be worth it.


Bonnie stood by the pit wall, fidgeting slightly, something she wasn't accustomed to doing at all. But Caroline liked to double-check everything just before the race and she wasn't able to do that now, with those reporters at her back.

And unfortunately for her, "everything" included Kol Mikaelson. He hadn't noticed her yet and that was for the best, seeing as 1) he was very low on the list of people Bonnie wished to see and 2) she had to overcome the nervous school girl act she suddenly had going on for her.

"Bonnie, darling, what a pleasure to see you again." His honey-milk accent poured over her ears in a seductive drawl.

Too late. He was standing there, propped against the control panel, looking as smug as she'd remembered him.

And just as attractive, a treacherous voice whispered in her head.

"Kol." She graced him with a mere nod.

"Finally came to settle our agreement?"

"In your dreams," Bonnie deadpanned. She had no time for this now.

But Kol didn't appear to catch the nuances of her voice and the animosity of her tone. Or rather, he probably did and chose to ignore them. That seemed to be his way, after all. "Oh, certainly. And I assure you, they're extremely vivid in detail, darling," he cajoled, those dark brown eyes raking over her body appreciatively.

Well, she did not appreciate. At all. Even if there was a small tiny prickle of awareness rising across her skin, it had more to do with the fact that she was irritated rather than with any possible attraction.

After all, that seemed to be the reaction he'd been able to get out of her from the start.


[Barcelona, November 2014, months ago]

Strutting into the crowded tapas bar, Bonnie did her best to stifle the flash of annoyance licking at her insides. Klaus Mikaelson was a hard man to find. Fortunately, his brother Kol was a far easier mark. One just needed to follow the sound of female giggles and the smell of arrogance that seemed to accompany him everywhere.

Sweet-talking the younger Mikaelson into revealing the location of his elusive brother wasn't high on her list of favourite pastimes. But it was what Caroline needed and Bonnie was here for business, not pleasure, anyway.

A roar of laughter echoed from the back and that was where she headed, momentarily spotting a brown-haired man surrounded by a bunch of female patrons. His lips were closed around a glass as he was drinking body-shots straight from some blonde's belly.

Damn, those lips.

Nope, nothing attractive about them. Or him.

Their eyes met as she made her way through the crowd, a spark of interest flickering in his irises. He dismissed the girl with a wink paired with a devilish grin spreading over his face.

"Kol Mikaelson?" Bonnie asked as she slid into the booth beside him.

"The one and only. I see that my fame precedes me but you have me at the disadvantage here, darling," he crooned, leaning closer to her.

"Bonnie Bennett, Caroline Forbes' personal assistant," she introduced herself, pushing him back a little, a hand on his chest.

"Oh. And what does the famous Golden Girl want from me?"

"It's Ms. Forbes for you. And nothing from you directly, we need to get in touch with your brother."

His grin faded slightly at that. But not for long. "Ouch. Of course it's my big-headed brother you want. Big mistake though, if you ask me. I'm much more charming, you see."

"I'm sure. It's business. She has some papers to sign for him but he's nowhere to be found," she explained, her eyes darting to the loose curl looming over his forehead.

It was distracting.

And Kol was peering at her with that knowing look, as if he was perfectly aware what caught her attention. "Typical Nik," he acquiesced. "Well, I suppose I could tell you. For a price, of course." His brow inched up daringly.

Rolling her eyes, she replied, "Of course. Don't you care it's for Klaus' benefit?"

"Exactly. For his benefit and I like to look out for mine."

"Yep. I can see this charm you've mentioned as clear as a day now," Bonnie quipped.

"Sassy. I love it." He slowly placed his hand on her arm, his fingers trailing down to her elbow.

She swatted them away immediately, ignoring the goosebumps covering her skin. "Don't waste your energy, Kol. Normally I wouldn't be caught in the same room as you."

His eyes lit up. "Really? Well, that makes your request all that more interesting."

"And why is that?" she let out, peeved. She'd had enough of these games.

"I'll tell you where to find Klaus," he trailed off dramatically. "But only after you spend a day with me."

Inside, Bonnie was seething by now. Who did he think he was? "You're delusional."

"I might be delusional if that make you feel better. But I also have what you want. And believe me, sweet Bonnie, if Nik doesn't want to be found, he won't be."

Pursing her lips, she pondered over her situation. Kol Mikaelson was a nuisance, that much was clear. Still, finding Klaus was a priority right now, given how Caroline had already announced to the board he was to take over Mason's spot on the team. She had used up all her other resources and as much as it pained her to admit it, Kol was right - there was no way of tracking the older Mikaelson, it seemed.

Caroline was so going to owe her for this.

"Fine," she bit out. "I will spend a day with you - although I wouldn't get your hopes up for anything - after you tell me where to find Klaus and if I find him."

"Ah, but my hopes are always up, darling. You drive a hard bargain, but...we have a deal."

His smile was nothing short of lecherous and deep down, Bonnie knew she would come to regret this.


"I've come to check how you've settled in. Everything's set for the race?" Bonnie asked matter-of-factly.

"Everything's perfect. All we need to do is to get our boy on track and we're ready to go," Kol reported lazily.

"That sounds dangerously cocky."

"Just self-aware of my talent. And Nik's, although don't tell him I said that."

"Don't mess this up, Kol."

"Don't worry. I won't. It's important for Nik and it's just as important for me." For once, he actually sounded serious so Bonnie nodded at him gratefully.

Turning back, she was ready to get back to the pits when he spoke again, returning to his usual smug self, "I would feel better if you set a date for our day together, though. More focused on doing my job and such, if you know what I mean." He wiggled his eyebrows at her.

Oh, he had another thing coming if he thought she would just cave in like this. "How about another deal?" She took a step in his direction.

"I'm listening."

"You are so sure of yourself and Klaus. Then let's up the stakes. I will honor our agreement. When Klaus wins his first race for FRT." Devious smile curling her lips, Bonnie stopped just inches away from him.

Kol squinted at her. "That sounds as if you want to get out of your part of the deal, darling. I'm wounded."

"Not really. I mean, you are going to help him win and probably soon, right? With all that talent of yours?" she goaded him further.

Something flared in his eyes at the challenge, Bonnie could see it.

Hook, line and sinker. Classic.

Kol bit on his lower lip, clearly considering whether to pick up the gauntlet, drawing her attention to its perfect shape. Much to her relief, he replied before she did anything stupid, like imagining those lips roaming her body.

"Deal. It's only a matter of time, after all. A short time," he added smugly.

"I'm sure," she said sweetly. "Until then, Kol."

As she strolled away, Bonnie found herself cheering for Enzo all of a sudden.


"Ready?" Caroline asked, walking into Klaus' part of their pit garage. The room was busy and buzzing with anticipation, mechanics and engineers rushing around, checking tyre sets, analyzing statistics, looking over control panel. She smiled with satisfaction, as everything seemed to proceed in that controlled chaos that she loved so much.

Klaus was just zipping up his race suit and she had to admit, the navy blue colour was perfect for him, complimenting his eyes.

But that was so not the point.

"Everything's perfect, love. I'm ready to go," he assured her, his confident gaze burning into her.

Even in her armor (aka jeans-team shirt-leather jacket combo), Caroline could feel the scorch of this gaze on her skin. The irritation she felt at him since the press conference rose again and even higher but she knew it would be unprofessional to say anything at this moment, just before the race. There would be time for it later.

So for now, she just put on a smile and said, "Good luck, then."

"I'm sure my Caroline and I will do splendid," he teased, amusement dancing in his eyes.

She couldn't help but scowl, looking at the car as if it offended her personally. And he noticed.

"Don't like the name, love? I must admit it's among my very favourites."

"We'll talk about this after the race, Klaus," she stated calmly. "Now is not the time."

"Come now, love, I'm sure we can - "

Caroline cut right in. "Later." Her voice held a steel edge to it, making his gaze turning cold.

"As you wish." He put on a fireproof cap over his head and started pulling on the gloves, his stance clearly dismissive.

But Caroline didn't take it personally. It was a good thing that he concentrated on the race. It was what she needed him to do. Making her way over to Enzo's side of garage, she wished Klaus good luck one more time and turned away.

She missed the way his whole body tensed as he slipped into the car and someone got the helmet onto his head, his hands clenched around the steering wheel.


I know I left it at a bit of cliffhanger but I'll update with part 2 (aka the race and the fallout) as soon as I can :)

So what did you think of this chapter? A bit of Kennett here (and it's my first time writing them), did it work for you? What about Klaroline's conversation and Klaus naming the car after Caroline? And what do you think of Klaus' behaviour at the very end?

Please share your thought with me and thank you for reading :)

Till next time,

Kate