On the afternoon of December 30th, sunlight streamed through the glass windows, landing on Dominik's face with a hint of winter warmth.
Dominik had just returned from Viktor's shop, where he had finally caved to Viktor's persistent urging. Dominik helped him out by making a surprise video call to Zhou Guanyu. As a result, the usually talkative Viktor didn't dare to say a word, making both Dominik and Zhou feel somewhat awkward. Fortunately, after joining Viktor in wishing Zhou a happy New Year, they politely arranged to meet in the paddock next season and hung up.
Driving home, Dominik's thoughts were still immersed in the relaxed atmosphere of the holidays. The footsteps of New Year's Eve were getting closer, and the streets of Budapest were filled with festive lights. He originally thought this winter break would be spent happily with his family until mid-February, when he would fly to Spain for the Carlin team's winter test. He never expected a single phone call would completely change his life.
Just after taking a shower, Dominik sat down in the living room and sighed, enjoying the rare comfort of having the villa to himself while his mother was out. Suddenly, the phone rang. It was his agent, O'Connor.
"Dominik, I have an important message to tell you." O'Connor's voice sounded excited but carried a hint of caution. "Because of the fallout from the safety car incident at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the external pressure on Williams Team has become immense. In the past two days, senior management took the initiative to contact me. After careful consideration, they have decided to invite you to join Williams for the 2022 season to compete in the F1 World Championship."
Dominik felt his heart skip a beat. F1—the top stage he had dreamed of. He knew he had a chance in the next year or two, but now, the opportunity was suddenly right in front of him. He had fantasized about this moment countless times, but he never thought it would happen on such an ordinary afternoon.
"Are they sure it's me?" Dominik asked, his voice surprisingly calm despite his racing pulse.
"Yes. They are very optimistic about your potential, especially after your recent data sessions. They've decided to give you the seat," O'Connor replied. "However, the team requires absolute confidentiality until the official announcement. I've sent the contract to your email. Read it, sign it, and send it back immediately."
After hanging up, Dominik sat in silence, his mind blank. A few minutes later, he recovered, turned on his laptop, and logged into his email. There it was: an email from Williams Racing.
He read every clause meticulously. The contract was clear: he would officially be a Williams driver for the 2022 season, partnering with Alex Albon. Dominik was no stranger to Albon, who had performed well during his Red Bull years. He knew that being teammates with such an experienced driver would be an incredible way to learn the ropes of the F1 paddock.
With a steady hand, Dominik picked up his electronic pen and solemnly signed his name. He felt a new chapter of his life beginning.
He didn't tell a soul until January 4th, when Williams tagged Dominik Corvinus on social media, officially announcing him as their driver for 2022.
The news was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, setting off a thousand waves in the racing world. While there had been rumors that Latifi might lose his seat to rising stars like Piastri or Shwartzman, no one expected the team to promote their 19-year-old Academy talent so quickly.
In Hungary, the news was explosive. Fans were boiling with pride. What made it even more historic was that in the same year, the 22-year-old Zhou Guanyu was joining Alfa Romeo. The grid would now feature two young stars from their respective nations making history at once.
Following the announcement, Dominik's social media presence exploded. Zhou and Dominik congratulated each other publicly, their words full of mutual respect. In just three days, Dominik's follower count soared like a rocket, increasing by 1.7 million.
Major European media outlets began reporting on everything from his karting roots in Hungary to his personal life. In an interview, Dominik said with a smile: "I really didn't expect so many people to suddenly pay attention to me. I feel surrounded by everyone's enthusiasm all at once."
At the same time, Hanna posted her congratulations on social media. But in a private message, she turned on the "sarcastic" mode: "You're so promising now, Mr. F1 Driver. I expect several days of big meals for this? Otherwise, I won't spare you." Dominik was speechless and promised to treat her once the busy period settled.
However, a few days later, an unexpected "ship" craze started. Fans noticed Hanna's post and dug up traces of their past interactions, pairing them together with the ship name "DomHanna."
Netizens began sharing old photos of them together in Buda, and even edited "sweet moment" videos. Faced with the sudden craze, Dominik was stunned. He posted a clarification stating they were just childhood friends, but fans didn't buy it. Some joked: "We know you're friends, but it doesn't prevent us from shipping it. Maybe there's a story in the future!"
Even his parents were scrolling through the fan theories on their phones.
"Dominikó, I advise you to follow the hearts of the fans," The Empress said playfully. Dominik didn't dare talk back; he just retreated to his room and prepared to "scold" Hanna for not helping him shut the rumors down.