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More from Harlow
++++++++++++++++
So, here is another look at the past from the earlier Bengtzing generation! More development about how Ferdinand’s own path came to shape up.
((“Dialogue in brackets”)) means the characters are speaking in Swedish.
Bengtzing family © Harlow
All belonging to the
furrybasketball universe, go check em out!
++++++++++++++++++
March, 1994, Europe.
-
((“So, that’s three years wrapped up, Bengtzing, you're a free agent now...”)) a sharply suited wolf commented to Ferdinand, the day after Stockholm was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs for the EFBL championship by Rome. The slow hum of the plane filling the pauses and silence both men gave to the topic.
((“We tried our best, and with Andrzejewicz and Obone out, it was gonna be a fight. Least we ended up in the next round.”)) the mustelid shrugged to his Manager.
((“I'm sure the big league across to America is the next step right? Or guessing you would like to stay in Sweden?”))
((“Mr. Jansson, I'm soon to turn 25. My next move will have to be THE next move.”)) Ferdinand stressed. ((“This is something I can't take lightly. It's a big risk, and... I'm not sure yet.”))
The pair got interrupted by the plane’s hostess, both accepting the offer for a cup of coffee. ((“Listen up, Bengtzing. What you have is world-class, I am sure of it. And whatever decision you take, make sure I will have your back and go to hell if I need so you have that opportunity. Do as you want, but if it's a risk, I say you got a big chance to get it good. Not going to lie. I want you here in Stockholm, but it's unfair for you to not let you try.”))
((“Thanks, Mr. Jansson”)) the polecat nodded. ((“I'll see how it goes. It's not the first time I make this kinds of choice, I guess it's all about what will life throw at me prior making the decision and hope I pick the right one.”))
Michelle kneeled next to the sink, a paw over her mouth, her breathing turning rapid and her body gradually trembling more and more.
“Two lines?! You must be joking…”
She shook the diminutive stick, but the results didn't change. The test clearly marked “positive”.
“This can't be… come on come on!” the polecat grabbed the other plastic device she used earlier, as to clear any doubt. After a while, she saw very well that a cross formed on the small window, marking a positive again. Feeling lightheaded, Michelle sat down on the toilet, her hands on her face as the realization made its way over her shaking, petite body.
“I'm…I'm…” she muttered to herself. She dismissed the most obvious symptom at first as the habits of her own body, but after constant sickness over the month, she ceded and bought herself two tests (one needs to be sure to get more than one opinion, just in case), with the small glimpse of hope it was something else.
Michelle’s mind went a thousand miles an hour. “Ferdinand doesn't have to know, I can't ruin his plans if he wants to go to the FBA…”
The mustelid shook her head fervently. “No! I HAVE to tell him! I know better than anyone it can't be from anyone else but his!”
Her ears dropped. “But what if he just goes out and… fucking runs away and leaves me like this? Is his career more important than me? Than us?”
She lightly scoffed. “Michelle, you’re being stupid, stop it! After these years, does he seem the kind to dump you after knowing this?!”
A sigh escaped her lips. “I… don't know if he is. Any man could run out after knowing this from his girl, just ask Beverly. But for all intents and purposes, he has to know and has to know asap.”
As such, she decided to not go out that day and call in sick. She knew something important was going to happen soon that could mess up with her life as much as the revelation itself would have. Ferdinand’s plane was soon to arrive from Rome, and those hours would sure feel like agonizing days. The mustelid chose to lay down and wait, she hardly had any will to do anything that day, anxiety eating her up from inside by the second.
((“Keep the change!”)) the blonde mustelid bid farewell to the cab as he fumbled around with his bags on his way to his house. Ferdinand was somewhat bummed he had to be greeted by that sight sooner than later on his post-season, but nonetheless he couldn't wait to show the souvenirs he got for his mate.
”Stjärnorna som lyser upp min natt… Som ger vår kärlek kraft…” Ferdinand hummed as he fished for his keys trying to enter his home. He was greeted with the sight of her jacket on the couch, one that she never left the house without. ((“Mimi? Are you in here?”))
Michelle walked out of the kitchen, facing her man with a slightly despondent expression, wearing only a soft, silky nightgown she usually wore to bed. ((“... We need to talk…”)) she just said, turning away slightly from her mate.
Ferdinand’s ears folded back, immediately thinking back for anything he might have done to anger her, to no avail. Was she not into the prospect of dating an athlete in the end? Did she didn't feel for him anymore?
The polecats sat on the bed they shared, Michelle having a hard time putting her news into words. ((“Sorry, but… this is important and… I'm k-kinda scared about this…”))
((“Mimi...”)) Ferdinand’s ears dropped and his tail laid down without movement. ((“What are you talking about?”))
((“I.. don't want to hurt you or you to think lesser of me because of this…”))
((It will be fine…”)) Ferdinand insisted, some strain in his voice. ((“Go and tell me Michelle you are making me worried...”))
One sigh to recompose herself later, she regained the strength she could muster. ((“Alright…”)) The mustelid lowered her head and sighed, as she grabbed a small paper bag, giving it to Ferdinand while turning away from any eye contact.
((“I mean, my birthday is not yet due for another two weeks…”)) The taller mustelid chuckled in an attempt to lighten up the humor, with no response from his mate, the humor in his face fading. Ferdinand opened the bag to be greeted by two testing kits hastily wrapped in newspaper. He shot a confused look at his mate, ((“What the…”))
Michelle sat petrified, anxiety running through her veins, as the other mustelid looked at both devices and the results the instructions threw off. Ferdinand’s expression gradually turned more surprised as the realization made its way in his system, his jaw dropping and his eyes switching between the tests and Michelle.
”Är du gravid?!” the athlete blurted out to his girlfriend in utter shock.
The smaller mustelid started to tear up, nodding as she wiped any tears away, clearly distressed beyond her limits. Ferdinand tugged on his hair band, letting his shoulder length hair down, passing his paw through it. “Oj oj oj…” the only expression he could vocalize.
((“I.. don't know what to do. I know this may not be what we wanted, but it just… happened. I’ve been feeling sick this last month and I didn't know if it could be actually this, and… and…I'm sorry.”))
Ferdinand felt the fear in her voice, and his lack of any verbal response didn't do anything to make matters better. Almost instinctively, the mustelid pulled his girlfriend in a tight hug, feeling her trembling and breathing heavily. “Okay, okay, okay…” he assured, trying his best to calm her down. Michelle broke down, returning the hug tightly. Out of every possible paranoid scenario that went through her head, she was so thankful Ferdinand was calm and assuring at first, calming her down and not letting her go until she recomposed herself.
Michelle nuzzled the athlete's chest, his heavy winter coat still not shed out completely. ((“What do we do now?”))
Ferdinand sighed. He wasn't expecting this, that was for sure, and the timing was surely not the best for it. How was he explaining this to his parents? To her parents? But the mustelid kept his cool, it was clear his mate was nervous and he didn't want to make matters worse. ((“We… we should go to the doctor tomorrow. We need to make sure you are healthy... and well… I need to know if it's mine. You understand... I mean… how did you?”))
((“I mean… we did had those nights in Milan at the beginning of the year. Not that I remember them crystal clear, but timing seems… right.”))
Ferdinand couldn't help but smile, remembering the great mood she was at the prospect of finally going to Italy, with a lover nonetheless. But being away from her in other countries for many nights was enough to make sure a nagging feeling was still on his mind. (((“Probably, but I want to make sure...”))
Michelle nodded. ((“Yeah… I don't know what to do. I'm scared...”))
Ferdinand pondered as a heavy silence made its way in the room. ((“Do you… want to get rid of it?”)) he asked.
Michelle looked bewildered by Ferdinand’s inquiry. ((“What?! Like… abor- No! It doesn't feel right, no…”)) she hastily responded. ((“Why… do you? Or do you want to give him for adoption or anything?”))
Ferdinand bit his lip, shaking his head. ((“I really don't like the idea of that, it would be so weird to have your own kid not living with its family…”)) he answered. As they tried to bounce off each other about the future, the more clear that the idea of keeping their future cub was becoming. They both weren't 100% opposed to the idea in earlier years, sometimes even kinda liking it. But what was done was done and the ideas were soon to become the only reality. Ferdinand hugged Michelle from behind, resting his chin on her head and his tail on her lap. While the gesture was something he usually did, this time it was deeper; with this new context, it was truly intimate.
((“If this is the way we got thrown in, we are going to go through it together...”)) Ferdinand said, caressing the mustelid’s fur.
Michelle hummed, nodding. ((“You know… I think I'd like that…”)). The polecat felt less scared at the prospect of parenthood, knowing her mate was starting to situate himself on the same page.
”När hjärtan sätts i brand...Som leder oss till drömmens land…”
Michelle’s ears perked. “Come again?”
“Oh… something I heard on radio and can not get out my head… Guess it fits, ja?” Ferdinand smiled.
“I guess…” she played with her hair unconsciously. ((“So… is it definite now? Is the paperwork submitted and you're going to the US?”))
((“I haven't officialized anything yet, but my submission is already written up and prepped to send. But... I wanted to think about it and see what other contract chances appeared...”)) the athlete sighed. ((“I’ was… kind of dreading this moment, and with this now, I have to think about it even more deeply...”))
Michelle nodded. ((“I’ll stand by your decision. You’ll always have a home in the US if that's the case. I like it here as well. Come on, you must be tired after that travel...”)) the mustelid yawned, which Ferdinand mimicked as well. Finally having his mate by his side was enough to relax him over that stressful decision, new circumstances or not. Anyhow, this new baby put a new dimension in his plans… or a new motivation.
”Va fan…”
((“Well, it seems you’re going to be a father, Mr. Bengtzing. Paternity test results show you’re a match!”))
Ferdinand sighed, feeling some weight pulled out from his shoulders, but quickly getting put back on at the looming prospect of parenthood. “Oj, oj…” he muttered before looking at Michelle. The expecting mustelid made motions to grab his paw, which be promptly did, caressing it with his fingers. ((“It's a… shock, you might know…”))
Michelle folded her ears somewhat, she knew she didn't play around while Ferdinand was gone, so there was no other outcome. ((“How is the baby? I mean, it's two months and I haven't taken any precautions at all! Vitamins or anything like that?”))
The doctor shook his head at the couple, familiar with any eccentric reaction, especially from the appointments from the unplanned kind. ((“Well, it’s too early to tell, but so far it all points to a healthy start. Since Miss Crnjac is RH-positive, means there won’t be incompatibility problems, and all further tests show no early genetic complications.”)) he then proceeded to fill the young woman with every other step she would need to do to keep a healthy pregnancy going. Ferdinand was somewhat aloof to it, mainly because all the requirements and steps reminded him of his own steps in his basketball paperwork, regarding his contracts and data. As the pair silenced, the polecat asked somewhat abruptly. ((“When will she be able to travel by plane?”))
((“I advise any travel to be done starting on the second trimester unless it's critical.”)) the raven medic continued. ((“She should be fine until the start of the third; you should avoid any travel close to the due date.”))
Michelle was somewhat intrigued by the question her mate asked, but didn't pay much mind at first, choosing to focus on the doctor's orders on her care. It wasn't long after they were dismissed, the question nagging Michelle’s mind.
((“What did that mean?”)) Michelle asked.
((“What did what mean?”)) Ferdinand asked, oddly coy with a slight smirk.
((“You know, Nandy. Flying? Me? Why did you ask that?”))
He shrugged his shoulders. ((“Well, I don't want to travel in the US and leave you here alone. It wouldn't bind well with our lives and our kid…”))
The mustelid nodded, but slowly Ferdinand’s answer sunk in her mind. She gasped. ((“D-Does this mean?!”))
((“I sent the application before the doctor’s appointment. Michelle, I applied to the FBA.”)) he stated confidently.
The polecat jumped a bit in excitement, hugging the taller mustelid. ((“Oh my god Nandy! This is gonna be so exciting!”)) she swayed, before remembering her condition, prompting herself back to a calmer demeanor.
((“I still got to get accepted, but so far, Mr. Jansson tells me it's set. They have helped me a ton, so it's all set to take place soon. We're going to fly out in May. You'll stay on your home and I'll go out to the draft camp in June and hopefully be in the top 24 and play the Combine on August to be on shape for the October draft…Whew, that's a plan, alright”))
((“Whoa, is draft that late?”))
((“Yeah, schedule issues to accommodate new teams, but shouldn't affect the season...”)) Ferdinand explained, before coming to another realization that made his eyes widen. ((“...Isn't the due date on… That close to the draft?!”))
((“Mid-October yes…”)) Michelle said, smiling and trying to calm her boyfriend. ((“But no worries, we will manage. Guess we gotta break the news to our parents now...”))
The athlete swallowed a lump in his throat. ((“Why did you tell me not to worry?”)) he replied, shaking his head, prompting Michelle to give him a peck on the cheek.
August, 1994, New York City.
“So it was a no?”
The two marbled polecats walked through an unusually desolate corner of Battery Park in New York City. Ferdinand looked somewhat dejected as he kneeled his elbows on a rail, watching the boats to Ellis Island come and go over the harbor.
“Ja… I did not make Top 24...” he replied. Michelle leaned on the rail next to the mustelid, her pregnancy now showing prominently through her summer dress. Ferdinand looked at her, smiling, thinking of the whole process that transpired over the last few months: the news and the farewell to his parents, the shaky, tiring, grueling flights that totaled 11 hours with a layover in Paris, the awkward, yet satisfying meet with Michelle’s parents as he crashed on their home, the trip to the Combine… a plethora of experiences that could burn out even the most sturdy of mustelids. But through sheer perseverance and charisma, Ferdinand soldered through to this day.
“So what does that mean?”
“I am not playing the big game, and might be overlooked over others who others feel might be better fits. Might mean smaller contract too…” the athlete replied, a sigh escaping his lips. “Guess did not impress them much…”
“Tch, don't say that, Nandy…” the mustelid scoffed. “I saw you play and train. It would be abnormally stupid for someone to pass you up, Top 24 or not... Your English is improving too…and your physique...” Michelle winked, giggling at her mate’s ears turning somewhat redder.
“Ja… I guess… but what happened happened. Draft in October, have to focus and hope I can get in the league. Is all I want. For us.”
“I can't wait to see who picks you up! I'm so glad it's all wrapped up honey, you'll love it here in the US…”
“Actually… one thing I need to do still, Michelle…” he said, before grabbing her paw, looking in the sincere golden of her eyes, as Ferdinand kneeled down. The expecting polecat gasped in shock, some swearing escaping her lips, but managing to keep it mostly together, her eyes watering as she saw a modest ring, wondering how in the world did Ferdinand hid it from her and for how long was he planning to do this.
“Will you marry me?”
Michelle was speechless; she could only watch as the polecat fitted a ring in her finger, shakingly going for a hug. Ferdinand chuckled, joyful she was on the same page on this new step in life.
“This is for you…” he said before looking down at her lover’s baby bump “...For us.” Ferdinand caressed his new fiancée before going in for a kiss.
“Sorry I can not give you a dream wedding yet…” Ferdinand commented, causing Michelle to laugh. “But once I get a good salary, we will have big parties and all the things you want…”
“Nandy, it's fine… I got all I need right here.” Michelle replied, making the taller polecat hold her in an embrace. Once he was in the FBA, once they relocated to their new hometown of whatever team that accepted him, it will all be worth it.
So, here is another look at the past from the earlier Bengtzing generation! More development about how Ferdinand’s own path came to shape up.
((“Dialogue in brackets”)) means the characters are speaking in Swedish.
Bengtzing family © Harlow
All belonging to the
furrybasketball universe, go check em out!++++++++++++++++++
March, 1994, Europe.
-
((“So, that’s three years wrapped up, Bengtzing, you're a free agent now...”)) a sharply suited wolf commented to Ferdinand, the day after Stockholm was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs for the EFBL championship by Rome. The slow hum of the plane filling the pauses and silence both men gave to the topic.
((“We tried our best, and with Andrzejewicz and Obone out, it was gonna be a fight. Least we ended up in the next round.”)) the mustelid shrugged to his Manager.
((“I'm sure the big league across to America is the next step right? Or guessing you would like to stay in Sweden?”))
((“Mr. Jansson, I'm soon to turn 25. My next move will have to be THE next move.”)) Ferdinand stressed. ((“This is something I can't take lightly. It's a big risk, and... I'm not sure yet.”))
The pair got interrupted by the plane’s hostess, both accepting the offer for a cup of coffee. ((“Listen up, Bengtzing. What you have is world-class, I am sure of it. And whatever decision you take, make sure I will have your back and go to hell if I need so you have that opportunity. Do as you want, but if it's a risk, I say you got a big chance to get it good. Not going to lie. I want you here in Stockholm, but it's unfair for you to not let you try.”))
((“Thanks, Mr. Jansson”)) the polecat nodded. ((“I'll see how it goes. It's not the first time I make this kinds of choice, I guess it's all about what will life throw at me prior making the decision and hope I pick the right one.”))
Michelle kneeled next to the sink, a paw over her mouth, her breathing turning rapid and her body gradually trembling more and more.
“Two lines?! You must be joking…”
She shook the diminutive stick, but the results didn't change. The test clearly marked “positive”.
“This can't be… come on come on!” the polecat grabbed the other plastic device she used earlier, as to clear any doubt. After a while, she saw very well that a cross formed on the small window, marking a positive again. Feeling lightheaded, Michelle sat down on the toilet, her hands on her face as the realization made its way over her shaking, petite body.
“I'm…I'm…” she muttered to herself. She dismissed the most obvious symptom at first as the habits of her own body, but after constant sickness over the month, she ceded and bought herself two tests (one needs to be sure to get more than one opinion, just in case), with the small glimpse of hope it was something else.
Michelle’s mind went a thousand miles an hour. “Ferdinand doesn't have to know, I can't ruin his plans if he wants to go to the FBA…”
The mustelid shook her head fervently. “No! I HAVE to tell him! I know better than anyone it can't be from anyone else but his!”
Her ears dropped. “But what if he just goes out and… fucking runs away and leaves me like this? Is his career more important than me? Than us?”
She lightly scoffed. “Michelle, you’re being stupid, stop it! After these years, does he seem the kind to dump you after knowing this?!”
A sigh escaped her lips. “I… don't know if he is. Any man could run out after knowing this from his girl, just ask Beverly. But for all intents and purposes, he has to know and has to know asap.”
As such, she decided to not go out that day and call in sick. She knew something important was going to happen soon that could mess up with her life as much as the revelation itself would have. Ferdinand’s plane was soon to arrive from Rome, and those hours would sure feel like agonizing days. The mustelid chose to lay down and wait, she hardly had any will to do anything that day, anxiety eating her up from inside by the second.
((“Keep the change!”)) the blonde mustelid bid farewell to the cab as he fumbled around with his bags on his way to his house. Ferdinand was somewhat bummed he had to be greeted by that sight sooner than later on his post-season, but nonetheless he couldn't wait to show the souvenirs he got for his mate.
”Stjärnorna som lyser upp min natt… Som ger vår kärlek kraft…” Ferdinand hummed as he fished for his keys trying to enter his home. He was greeted with the sight of her jacket on the couch, one that she never left the house without. ((“Mimi? Are you in here?”))
Michelle walked out of the kitchen, facing her man with a slightly despondent expression, wearing only a soft, silky nightgown she usually wore to bed. ((“... We need to talk…”)) she just said, turning away slightly from her mate.
Ferdinand’s ears folded back, immediately thinking back for anything he might have done to anger her, to no avail. Was she not into the prospect of dating an athlete in the end? Did she didn't feel for him anymore?
The polecats sat on the bed they shared, Michelle having a hard time putting her news into words. ((“Sorry, but… this is important and… I'm k-kinda scared about this…”))
((“Mimi...”)) Ferdinand’s ears dropped and his tail laid down without movement. ((“What are you talking about?”))
((“I.. don't want to hurt you or you to think lesser of me because of this…”))
((It will be fine…”)) Ferdinand insisted, some strain in his voice. ((“Go and tell me Michelle you are making me worried...”))
One sigh to recompose herself later, she regained the strength she could muster. ((“Alright…”)) The mustelid lowered her head and sighed, as she grabbed a small paper bag, giving it to Ferdinand while turning away from any eye contact.
((“I mean, my birthday is not yet due for another two weeks…”)) The taller mustelid chuckled in an attempt to lighten up the humor, with no response from his mate, the humor in his face fading. Ferdinand opened the bag to be greeted by two testing kits hastily wrapped in newspaper. He shot a confused look at his mate, ((“What the…”))
Michelle sat petrified, anxiety running through her veins, as the other mustelid looked at both devices and the results the instructions threw off. Ferdinand’s expression gradually turned more surprised as the realization made its way in his system, his jaw dropping and his eyes switching between the tests and Michelle.
”Är du gravid?!” the athlete blurted out to his girlfriend in utter shock.
The smaller mustelid started to tear up, nodding as she wiped any tears away, clearly distressed beyond her limits. Ferdinand tugged on his hair band, letting his shoulder length hair down, passing his paw through it. “Oj oj oj…” the only expression he could vocalize.
((“I.. don't know what to do. I know this may not be what we wanted, but it just… happened. I’ve been feeling sick this last month and I didn't know if it could be actually this, and… and…I'm sorry.”))
Ferdinand felt the fear in her voice, and his lack of any verbal response didn't do anything to make matters better. Almost instinctively, the mustelid pulled his girlfriend in a tight hug, feeling her trembling and breathing heavily. “Okay, okay, okay…” he assured, trying his best to calm her down. Michelle broke down, returning the hug tightly. Out of every possible paranoid scenario that went through her head, she was so thankful Ferdinand was calm and assuring at first, calming her down and not letting her go until she recomposed herself.
Michelle nuzzled the athlete's chest, his heavy winter coat still not shed out completely. ((“What do we do now?”))
Ferdinand sighed. He wasn't expecting this, that was for sure, and the timing was surely not the best for it. How was he explaining this to his parents? To her parents? But the mustelid kept his cool, it was clear his mate was nervous and he didn't want to make matters worse. ((“We… we should go to the doctor tomorrow. We need to make sure you are healthy... and well… I need to know if it's mine. You understand... I mean… how did you?”))
((“I mean… we did had those nights in Milan at the beginning of the year. Not that I remember them crystal clear, but timing seems… right.”))
Ferdinand couldn't help but smile, remembering the great mood she was at the prospect of finally going to Italy, with a lover nonetheless. But being away from her in other countries for many nights was enough to make sure a nagging feeling was still on his mind. (((“Probably, but I want to make sure...”))
Michelle nodded. ((“Yeah… I don't know what to do. I'm scared...”))
Ferdinand pondered as a heavy silence made its way in the room. ((“Do you… want to get rid of it?”)) he asked.
Michelle looked bewildered by Ferdinand’s inquiry. ((“What?! Like… abor- No! It doesn't feel right, no…”)) she hastily responded. ((“Why… do you? Or do you want to give him for adoption or anything?”))
Ferdinand bit his lip, shaking his head. ((“I really don't like the idea of that, it would be so weird to have your own kid not living with its family…”)) he answered. As they tried to bounce off each other about the future, the more clear that the idea of keeping their future cub was becoming. They both weren't 100% opposed to the idea in earlier years, sometimes even kinda liking it. But what was done was done and the ideas were soon to become the only reality. Ferdinand hugged Michelle from behind, resting his chin on her head and his tail on her lap. While the gesture was something he usually did, this time it was deeper; with this new context, it was truly intimate.
((“If this is the way we got thrown in, we are going to go through it together...”)) Ferdinand said, caressing the mustelid’s fur.
Michelle hummed, nodding. ((“You know… I think I'd like that…”)). The polecat felt less scared at the prospect of parenthood, knowing her mate was starting to situate himself on the same page.
”När hjärtan sätts i brand...Som leder oss till drömmens land…”
Michelle’s ears perked. “Come again?”
“Oh… something I heard on radio and can not get out my head… Guess it fits, ja?” Ferdinand smiled.
“I guess…” she played with her hair unconsciously. ((“So… is it definite now? Is the paperwork submitted and you're going to the US?”))
((“I haven't officialized anything yet, but my submission is already written up and prepped to send. But... I wanted to think about it and see what other contract chances appeared...”)) the athlete sighed. ((“I’ was… kind of dreading this moment, and with this now, I have to think about it even more deeply...”))
Michelle nodded. ((“I’ll stand by your decision. You’ll always have a home in the US if that's the case. I like it here as well. Come on, you must be tired after that travel...”)) the mustelid yawned, which Ferdinand mimicked as well. Finally having his mate by his side was enough to relax him over that stressful decision, new circumstances or not. Anyhow, this new baby put a new dimension in his plans… or a new motivation.
”Va fan…”
((“Well, it seems you’re going to be a father, Mr. Bengtzing. Paternity test results show you’re a match!”))
Ferdinand sighed, feeling some weight pulled out from his shoulders, but quickly getting put back on at the looming prospect of parenthood. “Oj, oj…” he muttered before looking at Michelle. The expecting mustelid made motions to grab his paw, which be promptly did, caressing it with his fingers. ((“It's a… shock, you might know…”))
Michelle folded her ears somewhat, she knew she didn't play around while Ferdinand was gone, so there was no other outcome. ((“How is the baby? I mean, it's two months and I haven't taken any precautions at all! Vitamins or anything like that?”))
The doctor shook his head at the couple, familiar with any eccentric reaction, especially from the appointments from the unplanned kind. ((“Well, it’s too early to tell, but so far it all points to a healthy start. Since Miss Crnjac is RH-positive, means there won’t be incompatibility problems, and all further tests show no early genetic complications.”)) he then proceeded to fill the young woman with every other step she would need to do to keep a healthy pregnancy going. Ferdinand was somewhat aloof to it, mainly because all the requirements and steps reminded him of his own steps in his basketball paperwork, regarding his contracts and data. As the pair silenced, the polecat asked somewhat abruptly. ((“When will she be able to travel by plane?”))
((“I advise any travel to be done starting on the second trimester unless it's critical.”)) the raven medic continued. ((“She should be fine until the start of the third; you should avoid any travel close to the due date.”))
Michelle was somewhat intrigued by the question her mate asked, but didn't pay much mind at first, choosing to focus on the doctor's orders on her care. It wasn't long after they were dismissed, the question nagging Michelle’s mind.
((“What did that mean?”)) Michelle asked.
((“What did what mean?”)) Ferdinand asked, oddly coy with a slight smirk.
((“You know, Nandy. Flying? Me? Why did you ask that?”))
He shrugged his shoulders. ((“Well, I don't want to travel in the US and leave you here alone. It wouldn't bind well with our lives and our kid…”))
The mustelid nodded, but slowly Ferdinand’s answer sunk in her mind. She gasped. ((“D-Does this mean?!”))
((“I sent the application before the doctor’s appointment. Michelle, I applied to the FBA.”)) he stated confidently.
The polecat jumped a bit in excitement, hugging the taller mustelid. ((“Oh my god Nandy! This is gonna be so exciting!”)) she swayed, before remembering her condition, prompting herself back to a calmer demeanor.
((“I still got to get accepted, but so far, Mr. Jansson tells me it's set. They have helped me a ton, so it's all set to take place soon. We're going to fly out in May. You'll stay on your home and I'll go out to the draft camp in June and hopefully be in the top 24 and play the Combine on August to be on shape for the October draft…Whew, that's a plan, alright”))
((“Whoa, is draft that late?”))
((“Yeah, schedule issues to accommodate new teams, but shouldn't affect the season...”)) Ferdinand explained, before coming to another realization that made his eyes widen. ((“...Isn't the due date on… That close to the draft?!”))
((“Mid-October yes…”)) Michelle said, smiling and trying to calm her boyfriend. ((“But no worries, we will manage. Guess we gotta break the news to our parents now...”))
The athlete swallowed a lump in his throat. ((“Why did you tell me not to worry?”)) he replied, shaking his head, prompting Michelle to give him a peck on the cheek.
August, 1994, New York City.
“So it was a no?”
The two marbled polecats walked through an unusually desolate corner of Battery Park in New York City. Ferdinand looked somewhat dejected as he kneeled his elbows on a rail, watching the boats to Ellis Island come and go over the harbor.
“Ja… I did not make Top 24...” he replied. Michelle leaned on the rail next to the mustelid, her pregnancy now showing prominently through her summer dress. Ferdinand looked at her, smiling, thinking of the whole process that transpired over the last few months: the news and the farewell to his parents, the shaky, tiring, grueling flights that totaled 11 hours with a layover in Paris, the awkward, yet satisfying meet with Michelle’s parents as he crashed on their home, the trip to the Combine… a plethora of experiences that could burn out even the most sturdy of mustelids. But through sheer perseverance and charisma, Ferdinand soldered through to this day.
“So what does that mean?”
“I am not playing the big game, and might be overlooked over others who others feel might be better fits. Might mean smaller contract too…” the athlete replied, a sigh escaping his lips. “Guess did not impress them much…”
“Tch, don't say that, Nandy…” the mustelid scoffed. “I saw you play and train. It would be abnormally stupid for someone to pass you up, Top 24 or not... Your English is improving too…and your physique...” Michelle winked, giggling at her mate’s ears turning somewhat redder.
“Ja… I guess… but what happened happened. Draft in October, have to focus and hope I can get in the league. Is all I want. For us.”
“I can't wait to see who picks you up! I'm so glad it's all wrapped up honey, you'll love it here in the US…”
“Actually… one thing I need to do still, Michelle…” he said, before grabbing her paw, looking in the sincere golden of her eyes, as Ferdinand kneeled down. The expecting polecat gasped in shock, some swearing escaping her lips, but managing to keep it mostly together, her eyes watering as she saw a modest ring, wondering how in the world did Ferdinand hid it from her and for how long was he planning to do this.
“Will you marry me?”
Michelle was speechless; she could only watch as the polecat fitted a ring in her finger, shakingly going for a hug. Ferdinand chuckled, joyful she was on the same page on this new step in life.
“This is for you…” he said before looking down at her lover’s baby bump “...For us.” Ferdinand caressed his new fiancée before going in for a kiss.
“Sorry I can not give you a dream wedding yet…” Ferdinand commented, causing Michelle to laugh. “But once I get a good salary, we will have big parties and all the things you want…”
“Nandy, it's fine… I got all I need right here.” Michelle replied, making the taller polecat hold her in an embrace. Once he was in the FBA, once they relocated to their new hometown of whatever team that accepted him, it will all be worth it.
Category All / All
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