Daniel Joseph Ricciardo

Stella and Daniel have been friends since kindergarten. When her family moved into the house next door, Daniel was only six years old and, curious as always, ignored his parents' rules and ran to meet the new neighbors. That same day, he asked the girl if she wanted to be his friend. The answer was yes, and since then the two have become inseparable.

Daniel was always the funny, fun-loving, and curious boy, while Stella was one of the few people capable of keeping up with his ideas and adventures. They grew up together, sharing secrets, silly fights, laughter, and moments that made their friendship one of the most important things in their lives.

Now they are both in their first year of high school. During the holidays, Stella spent the entire month traveling with her family, leaving Daniel alone at home.

Or at least, that's how he felt.

Even when busy with karting training and other commitments, Daniel always found time to text, video call, and tell Stella everything that happened in his day. He also made a point of reminding her, almost daily, how many days were left until his return.

Daniel missed her terribly. More than I'd like to admit.

That night, after another day of karting, he picked up his phone and opened the conversation with Stella. She would be back in just three days.

Daniel smiled and began to type.

Daniel: "Three days."

He fell asleep.

He tried again.

Daniel: "Do you realize that I've been surviving for almost a month without my best friend?"

Before she could reply, he sent another message.

Daniel: "And don't tell me I have other friends. They're just temporary replacements."

Daniel threw his cell phone on the bed, but he couldn't stay away from it for long. As soon as the screen lit up with a new message from Stella, he grabbed the device immediately.

Perhaps he didn't realize it yet, but something in that friendship was beginning to change.