Chapter 27: Chapter 27: The Road to France
The morning sun streamed through the hotel window as Henry Calder sat at the small desk, the ART Grand Prix contract spread out before him. He traced the outline of the team's logo with his finger, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. His mind was finally made up.
"Dad, I'm going with ART," Henry announced, turning to his father, who was sipping his morning coffee.
Luke Calder leaned back in his chair, studying his son with a mix of pride and relief. "That's a solid choice. They'll nurture you, and that's what you need right now. But let's make sure this contract reflects your worth.
An hour later, the two were seated in a conference room with Camille and ART's legal team on a video call. Luke had the contract printed out, meticulously marked with notes and questions.
"We're excited that Henry has chosen ART," Camille began with a warm smile. "He'll be an incredible addition to the team."
Luke nodded, his tone polite but firm. "Thank you for the opportunity. We just have a few adjustments we'd like to discuss before Henry signs."
One by one, Luke outlined his points:
1. A Slightly Higher Base Salary: While the initial offer was fair, David pushed for a 15% increase, highlighting Henry's rapid ascent and marketability.
2. More Sponsor Flexibility: David requested a clause ensuring that Henry could independently seek and manage certain sponsorships, provided they didn't conflict with team sponsors.
3. Racing Schedule Transparency: David insisted on clearer details regarding testing days and promotional events to help Henry plan his commitments.
ART's legal team deliberated briefly before agreeing to all the terms.
Camille smiled. "We want Henry to feel supported, and these adjustments seem reasonable. Welcome to ART Grand Prix."
Henry signed the contract, his heart pounding with excitement. The deal was done.
That evening, Henry called his mom and sister to share the news.
"So… I made my decision," he began, his voice slightly shaky.
"Tell us already!" Emily's voice was filled with eager anticipation.
"I'm joining ART Grand Prix. I'll be moving to France for the season," Henry said.
There was a brief silence on the other end before his mom spoke. "France? That's amazing, Henry. But… are you sure? That's a long way from home."
"It's the right move, Mom," he assured her. "They're the best fit for me right now."
Emily chimed in, "You better send pictures of everything. I want to see the car, the track, your new place everything!"
Henry chuckled. "I will, Em. I promise. But listen, I've been thinking… I want to send 80% of my salary back home."
"What?" his mom exclaimed, stunned.
"You've supported me all this way," Henry explained. "I want you to start living a better life. Fix up the house, get Emily whatever she needs for school, and just… take it easy for a change."
His mom's voice cracked with emotion. "Henry, you don't have to do that."
"I want to," he insisted. "You've sacrificed so much for me. It's time I gave something
Later that night, Henry sat with his dad in the hotel room, going over what he'd need to make the transition to ART as smooth as possible.
"Dad, I've been thinking," Henry began. "I need a personal assistant. Someone to help me manage my schedule, track my commitments, and handle day-to-day logistics."
Luke nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good idea. You'll have a lot on your plate at ART, and staying organized is going to be key."
"And I think I need a personal trainer too," Henry added. "I want to build a solid fitness routine. The academy was intense, but this is a whole new level. I need someone who can tailor a plan for me."
Luke clapped his son on the shoulder. "You're thinking like a professional, Henry. I'll start looking for both. We'll find someone trustworthy who can help you stay at the top of your game."
Henry leaned back, a sense of calm washing over him. He was finally starting to feel like he was on the right path not just for his career, but for his family and himself.
The next morning, Henry woke up early, staring out the window at the bustling streets of Italy. In just a few days, he'd be packing his things and heading to France. The thought was equal parts thrilling and terrifying.
He glanced at the system notification still glowing on his screen from the night before.
"System, do you think I'm ready for this?" he asked softly.
The familiar voice replied, "Henry Calder, you have faced immense challenges and grown stronger with each one. Readiness is not a destination but a process. You are ready to begin the next step."
Henry smiled. "Thanks, System. Let's make it happen."
With that, he closed his laptop, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead. France and the future awaited.
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