Chapter 21
For the last six years the five youths had cohabited peacefully, taking it in turn to do the necessary domestic tasks around Hope Island according to a Rota without any complaints. Linka remembered that Kwame and Ma-Ti had cleaned the common room only yesterday and was surprised to see Wheeler busily dusting and tidying the 'Teers' combined possessions with some vigor. She had entered the living area after she had completed her bird survey, and she stared wide eyed at her companion, who had always been known to procrastinate doing his chores as much as he could before diving into them.
"Wheeler, what are you doing?" she asked lightly, a puzzled smile settling on her pretty face; however, the young man didn't appear to hear her as he crossed to the kitchen and began to scrub the surfaces energetically.
The Russian stepped over to where he was and stood in front of the redhead with her hands on her hips until he paused his walkman and pulled the headphones out of his ears. "Sorry, Babe, did you say something?" he asked with a bright look that left his face all aglow.
"Da, I asked what you were to be doing," Linka answered, raising her eyebrows to accent the question.
"Duh. Cleaning," Wheeler returned holding up the cloth as if to prove he was telling the honest truth.
"I can see that, but why are you cleaning? Kwame and Ma-Ti only did the common room yesterday, and it is not your turn yet. Besides, I always thought you hated cleaning!" the young woman commented.
"I know . . . never thought of myself as having been born to wear an apron . . . I don't know what it is. I just suddenly got the urge to clean everything and straighten up even though it's just been done, and it doesn't seem to matter how many times I do things it doesn't seem right!" Wheeler looked up with a confused expression crossing his freckled features as Linka giggled. "What, it's funny that I'm getting o.c.d tendencies?" he asked as his cheeks turned pink.
"Nyet, but I think I know why you are . . ." Picking up Wheeler's guide to pregnancy, the wind Planeteer flicked through a couple of pages while Wheeler looked on, a puzzled expression refusing to leave his fair face. "According to this, around the fifth month of pregnancy, the "nesting" instinct can set in. This is an uncontrollable urge to clean one's house, and it is brought on by a desire to prepare a nest for the new baby, to tie up loose ends of old projects, and to organize your world." Linka read aloud as an intrigued Wheeler looked on. "It is a primal instinct. Just as you see birds making their nests, mothers-to-be do exactly the same thing. The act of nesting puts you in control and gives a sense of accomplishment toward birth. You may become a homebody and want to retreat into the comfort of home and familiar company, like a brooding hen."
"Something to look forward to . . . not!" Wheeler shot back, not happy about the analogy the wind Planeteer had offered. He had always seen himself as adventurous and never being satisfied to stay home, so he found it hard to accept that he would become a creature of comfort and a homebody.
"It is normal, Yankee." Linka smiled as she looked up at her friend. "You see you are just preparing for your baby, not getting obsessive compulsive disorder." The Russian laughed and gently reached up to plant a kiss on the stunned redhead's cheek before leaving her friend to his chores; after all, she knew he wouldn't be able to stop until he was satisfied.
When Linka returned outside and joined her friends, she was met by a curious question from her fellow eco-warriors.
"Where is Wheeler?" Kwame asked as he noticed that there was no sign of his expectant friend.
"He is to be getting the nesting instinct, so he is insisting on cleaning the common room," Linka explained as her eyes sparkled brightly.
"What is the matter? Did we not clean it properly yesterday?" a confused Ma-Ti asked, trying not to let his feelings be hurt.
"No, I'm sure you guys did it perfectly." Gi jumped in to sooth the Kyapo who looked rather bothered that his best friend was not satisfied with the job he and the black Planeteer had done.
"Da. Nesting instinct means that Wheeler wants to clean and tidy everything, even if it does not need it. I do not think he can help it." Linka added her own reassurance and made a mental note to show the South American Indian the description in the pregnancy guide later that evening.
"I think we're going to see a bit of a change in Wheeler in the next few weeks," Gi pensively commented as she tried to picture the fire Planeteer trading his outdoor playtime for indoor domestic work.
The rest of the day unfolded with no earth shattering events or eco-emergencies, so the Planeteers found themselves enjoying a relaxing day and evening. After supper, Wheeler retreated to his room with a retractable tape measure he dug out of the tool kit. With every measurement he took, he found himself wondering just how he would fit a baby into his room. Would he have to get rid of his computer desk and the make-shift entertainment center where he kept his TV and video equipment? It wouldn't be a good idea to keep these things in a room where a baby would be trying to sleep anyway. But what would he do with his gizmos? Fatherhood shouldn't have to mean giving up emailing Trevor and making/editing home videos. Realizing that there was nothing he could do for the night; he changed into his pj's, brushed his teeth, and slid into bed.
The morning brought a brilliant sunrise and a gentle wind that made Hope Island the picture of paradise. The day was so lovely that nobody had any trouble rising, showering, and making their way to the common hut for breakfast. The only thing that kept them from eating a picnic breakfast was the fact that a midnight sprinkle left the outdoor table and benches a little wet.
"What is that?" a curious Linka asked, looking at the large envelope that was sitting in Wheelers lap.
"Ma sent me some baby catalogues to look through and a list of stuff I'm gonna need when the munchkin gets here. There's more to having a baby than I figured," the redhead replied thoughtfully as he read through the list his mother had penned in her neat cursive scrawl.
"Like what?" Gi asked as she set a glass of orange juice on the table by the young man.
"Like a crib, loadsa feeding stuff, clothes, diapers, a baby buggy, bedding . . ." Wheeler paused and dumped out the brochures from the paper envelope, only meaning to glance through and get an idea of prices. "Awww man, that's so cute!" he stopped, looking at a tiny bedroom set that he thought would be perfect for the child of a Planeteer.
"What is?" Ma-Ti asked, wanting to know what was making his friend go gooey; although he was prone to it at the moment.
"This bedroom set . . . it's a bedding set, curtains, baby bumper, wallpaper, room thermometer all with like underwater animals on it, it's down right adorable!" Wheeler excitedly showed his friends the page in the catalogue and waited for their reactions.
"I think . . ." Linka began, deliberately pausing to keep the young man on edge, "we need to take someone baby shopping," she finished with a smile as Wheeler pretty much jumped up, scattering the remaining catalogues on the floor in the process.
"That'd be great! I wanna get some stuff before I get too much bigger and can't be seen in public without blowing my cover," the 22 year old beamed, patting his 19 week bulge.
"Yes, my friend, and you should get to choose the stuff for your baby," Kwame thoughtfully commented, giving away the fact that he had one more thing on his mind.
"But?" Wheeler asked, realizing that the African had something else to say.
"I think we should all chip in and help you buy it; it does look rather expensive," the black Planeteer concluded as the others nodded their agreement.
"You should call your mother and invite her too. Everyone knows that grandparents-to-be love the opportunity to buy stuff for a new baby," Gi added.
"Guys, I think I can handle-"Wheeler began, wanting to keep his male ego in tact and try to do everything on his own.
"No arguments, Yankee," Linka abruptly interrupted, "We are going to help you! Having a baby and raising that baby will be expensive for you. We will not taking no for an answer."
Wheeler collected his fallen literature and set it beside him before drinking his juice. After he finished his morning meal, he headed back for his hut to make sure he was presentable for a trip into town. He placed a quick cell phone call to his mother, and dressed in the loosest T-shirt and baggy shorts he could find, before setting off with his friends on a voyage to the Big Apple.
"It does not look like your mother is here yet, Wheeler," Kwame observed as the five youths reached the designated meeting point and looked around for any sign of the older woman.
Wheeler glanced at his watch. "We're a little early, she might still be on the train, shouldn't be too lo-"
"Wheeler? Is that you?"
The pregnant man heard a familiar voice and froze as he came to the nerve wracking realization that he was going to be thrust into an uncomfortable situation. "Hi Trish!" he called out; trying to sound normal and not tip his friend off that something was up.
"Wow! U really got fat over the last 3 years; too many burger feasts I suppose . . . "the confident New Yorker patted Wheeler's stomach and blew a bubble with her gum before gently smiling. Through the years, she'd missed having this fun loving guy around.
"Yeah, something like that," Wheeler answered back, his voice wavering with nerves; and he immediately knew that Trish was not convinced of his bluff.
Having dated the redhead for a few months when they were younger, Trish had found she could read Wheeler like a book; and, right now, he was definitely hiding something. "What's going on?" she asked, looking at him with a serious and concerned expression reflecting in her eyes. "You sick?"
"Not exactly . . . come here" Wheeler carefully pulled the wannabe artist to one side and told her what was happening. The other Planeteers couldn't hear what was going on, but they could see the woman's eyes widen in surprise. Trish wasn't sure what to make of the news that Wheeler had given her, and her immediate reaction had been to scoff at him for such a lame joke; however, as he had explained his condition in more detail and showed her the ultrasound print in his wallet, she found it harder and harder not to believe him. He did have that big belly as well; the Wheeler she knew would never have let a weight problem get that far.
Returning to where Wheelers friends stood the blonde cleared her throat. "So what are you up to today?" she gulped, feeling totally confused and unsure how to react to the strange tidings her former boyfriend had just given her.
"We're taking Wheeler to choose some baby things, just waiting for his mother to show up," Gi explained.
"Oh . . . OK . . ." Trish replied numbly.
"Are you alright Trish?" Wheeler asked as he rested his hand on her shoulder.
"Yeah . . . takes a while to sink in doesn't it . . . I gotta go now, I only came to get some more aquamarine paint," the young woman said, feeling slightly better as each moment passed.
"Ok, promise me . . . don't tell anyone?" now it was Wheeler's turn to look worried, for nobody had reacted this badly to his unusual news before; everyone else seemed to have accepted it after a few minutes.
"No, don't worry . . . I won't. Look after yourself." Trish turned and wandered off as Wheeler watched her walk away with a troubled look on his face; after all, he wondered if he had spilled the beans to too many people
"Yoo-hoo!" Bridget waved as she emerged through the mall's entrance and saw the rather subdued group of Planeteers who were waiting by the video directory.
"Hey, ma," Wheeler hailed quietly, raising his hand.
"What on earth happened?" the older woman asked as she approached and saw her son was apparently feeling out of sorts.
"I just ran into Trish and had to tell her about . . . you don't think she'll spill the news to someone else . . . and have it possibly get to the press do you ma?" he asked nervously as his mother planted a welcoming kiss on his cheek.
"No, why would you ever think that?" she asked proceeding to wipe the pink lipstick from the redheads face.
"I dunno, she just went all weird when I told her that's all. She was looking at me like I was some sorta space alien." Wheeler looked in the direction Trish had gone and sighed.
"Well, Honey, it's pretty unusual news; she's probably just in shock, I'll bet she contacts you later and works everything out. Now are we going shopping for baby things or not?" the older woman clapped her hands and subtly changed the subject in hopes of lightening her boy's mood and getting to the fun stuff.
"Oh, yeah, that's right . . . Baby stuff." Wheeler instantly brightened up as the real reason for their being at the mall resurfaced in his mind, and he excitedly looked forward to choosing some bits for his little one.
The first stop on the itinerary Bridget had drafted was the baby department store, and the group immediately flocked to the section where the baby cribs were.
"I like this one," Wheeler commented, looking at the display of cribs on exhibit around him.
"Let's see . . . Playbead crib, beech crib, one handed drop side mechanism, protective teething side, suitable from birth to two years . . ." Bridget read the tags along side the furniture and carefully moved to inspect the assembled model.
"Can I help you madam?" A smartly dressed sales advisor in a nice shirt and tie appeared beside the small party and offered his services.
"My son is looking for some baby supplies for his first child, would you recommend this design?" Bridget quickly took charge of the situation.
"Certainly madam, this is one of our more favored designs. Many mothers find the easy drop mechanism useful, and the size means that it can be used right up to the child's second year." The young man, who appeared to be not much older than Wheeler, stepped forward and showed the Planeteers how the drop mechanism worked properly. "To lower the side, you lift the rail slightly, push the bottom edge with your leg . . . here . . . and allow the side to drop. The extra push mechanism at the bottom stops the child from dropping the side and risking injury." As she noticed the pensive look that colored Wheeler's face, Bridget asked, "Well, what do you think, Jesse?"
"Ya think I could try that?" the expectant father asked, wanting to see how easy the movement was to someone who was unaccustomed to the action.
With a nod, the sales person stepped aside. "So you're the lucky father to be?" he asked in a polite effort to make friendly conversation.
"That's right," Wheeler answered with a smile as he clicked the rail back into place and tested its stability.
"And when is your wife due?"
"Not for a while yet . . . December . . . but I wanted to get the ball rolling now, you know, get some ideas for the nursery before it's too late," Wheeler answered merrily as he carefully let the side back down.
"Ah yes, if you're interested in buying this crib, it's part of a furniture set," the salesman offered as Wheeler stepped back, feeling fairly satisfied that this was the right one for his munchkin.
Wheeler silently sent a message to the bulge that was hidden beneath his bright top. "What do you think, kiddo, good enough for us?" Looking at the crib, dresser and storage that would be required for a baby, he began to wonder how he was ever going to fit everything in his room on Hope Island. Memories of his night with the tape measure came zooming back to mind; and, even though he had the biggest of the residential huts to himself, he still doubted that he would be able to move around with both his and the baby's furniture squashed up in a seemingly shrinking room.
"Well I'm definitely interested in the set," Wheeler said thoughtfully after he looked around at the furnishings that surrounded him and his company. "Of course, I need to look at some dimensions and talk to the missus before I make any final decisions." he added with a grin.
"That's fine. If you want to look again come in anytime; or when you're ready to order you can call us and reserve the packs and pick them up. We can also deliver to most places on the mainland. If you have any questions feel free to call me, and I'll be happy to help." The salesman slipped a card into Wheeler's hand, bowed, and left the group alone to ponder their next move.
"Is that the set you really like?" Linka asked kindly.
"Yeah, I really love it, just not sure how I'm gonna fit all this stuff in my room," the redhead replied.
"That could be a problem, but I'm sure it won't be all that bad. Maybe you could swap your double bed back to a single," Gi suggested with a shrug.
It had been nearly three years since Wheeler had swapped out his single bed for a double, and he wondered if he could get used to sleeping in the narrower area again. When an accident on an eco-mission resulted in critical injuries, including a broken arm and a severely broken leg for the fire Planeteer, the other eco-activists felt he would appreciate the extra room a double bed would provide. After the casts finally came off and Wheeler was out of his wheelchair, he found he really did enjoy having the extra space. Switching back to a single would certainly feel weird, especially since he was growing bigger by the week!
"Do you have a king size bed at home, Sweetheart?" Bridget asked.
"Just a regular double, Ma."
"I'm not sure swapping a double for a single would work. Doubles aren't that much wider than singles, and they're usually the same length, unless you specifically order a special one for tall people."
The problem concerning his bedroom and how he would fit himself and a baby into it was one that wasn't going to go away unless there was a welcomed distraction, so Wheeler decided to change the course of action for the rest of the morning.
"Yeah well, I think I'll leave the big stuff for now; I've had a look around here. I can still get some of the smaller stuff today if I see something I want," the American stated his plan and set off towards the soft furnishings, clothing and feeding equipment while Bridget and the other Planeteers made mental notes on how to help Wheeler get the furniture he sought.
The rest of the morning was one of delight for all involved, and Bridget insisted on buying everything for her son and his new arrival. Wheeler said he wanted to buy some of the supplies, but his mother stubbornly would not yield, maintaining that he should let her have her fun. It wasn't every day that she was going to become a grandmother. When they found the perfect nursing rocker that was the last one in stock, Wheeler quickly threw down the money - all $100 - onto the check out stand before his mother could retrieve her wallet from her camel colored purse. Although he said he was going to make the furniture wait, he had to get this chair before it was gone. After all, he could keep it in the common hut until he rearranged his own bedroom.
"How about lunch, I am hungry after such a productive morning" Kwame breathed as he loaded the boxed and disassembled chair into the Geo-cruiser. Wheeler had maybe gone a little overboard on the baby bits; he, choosing them, while his mother laid down the money for them. However, the African was glad to see his friend so happy and at least Wheeler was being sensible and preparing for the patter of tiny feet that would soon herald the newest member of their extended family.
"Sounds like a perfect idea, I'm starved," Wheeler returned as he set the last of the smaller packages into the little craft, his face looking flushed and his lips spreading with a happy grin.
"The food court's going to be crowded now because it's lunchtime. There's a café not too far from here, and it serves a whole variety of food," Bridget suggested as she stepped along side her son.
"What do you want, guys?" Wheeler asked as the sextet filed into the nearby café that Wheeler suddenly realized was very familiar to him. "Lunch is on me."
"You don't have to buy us lunch," Gi simply said with the shake of the head.
"I want to," the American responded with a smile.
"Are you sure dear, you've already spent a lot on that rocker today." Bridget sensibly pointed out her son's recent expenditure.
"Yeah I'm sure. I was gonna need a rocking chair anyways; and that one was absolutely perfect; and its not very often I get to treat my family to lunch," the redhead opened his arms wide, showing that the other Planeteers were much more than just friends. As far as he was concerned they were his family and Hope Island, his home. The others smiled, it was a lovely gesture and they happily chose what they would like to eat from the menu.
The waitress arrived at the table for six, and Wheeler noticed it was not Anne, as this lady was an older and heavier set woman with dark skin and a nature that gave her that motherly air. Perhaps this was Anne's day off. Oh well, so much for any matchmaking efforts on behalf of his best friend. The customers placed their order to the food service professional and sat back as she collected the menus, promising to bring their drinks out in a few minutes.
"Are you sure you should be eating that, love?" Bridget commented as Wheeler's meal arrived at the table.
"Come on, Ma, I can't eat perfectly all the time. This is the first fast food I've had for almost 5 months. Besides, I ordered salad as a side instead of fries." Seeing the older woman nod her agreement, Wheeler slowly sank his teeth into the burger, waiting for the delicious taste to hit his pallet. "Ewoo, yuck," He complained as his face changed from one of happy anticipation to one of absolute disgust.
"What is wrong?" Linka asked as she noticed her friend's expression
"I can't eat it, it tastes nasty to me," the redhead quietly criticized his food so the restaurant employees wouldn't hear his complaint; and he picked a piece of lettuce from the plate and chewed it, trying to rid his mouth of the greasy texture.
The Russian broke a piece of the burger off and ate it, trying to see what was so bad about the food item. "Tastes fine to me," she shrugged.
"Guess I'm just not into burgers anymore," Wheeler replied with a sigh and continued munching on the salad.
"Do you want to swap?" Linka asked, offering her lightly grilled chicken meal.
"No thanks, doesn't matter, I can eat the salad," Wheeler retorted knowing he didn't want to take someone else's food; anyway, he remembered that Linka was not too fond of burgers.
"You need more than just that salad, my friend," Kwame sensibly pointed out. "In your . . . The way you have been feeling these last few months, you should not go without a full meal."
"That's OK, guys; it was my fault. I ordered wrong, I'd feel bad taking anyone else's food," The fire Planeteer said as he leaned back. It was strange, for he'd been so sure he would have enjoyed the burger; he hadn't even considered that he wouldn't have the appetite to eat it.
"I know what we can do!" Ma-Ti stated quickly as he snapped his fingers. "We can divide all our meals into five portions and swap a piece for a bit of your burger; that way you are not taking anyone else's food, and you get to have a proper meal." The Kyapo explained his plan and carefully divided his omelet into five equal portions.
"Da, that will work," Linka smiled, leaning over and slicing the burger into five equal portions.
Also acting in agreement to this plan, Gi, Kwame, and Bridget took a section of the burger and swapped it for a piece of their food.
"Thanks, guys," Wheeler smiled as he looked at the assortment of food that was now on his plate; he had everything from Thai to Italian by the looks of the meal that sat in front of him.
"That's ok, Wheeler, we can't have you going hungry now can we?" Gi replied happily as everyone dug into their food.
Once the well fed Planeteers and their guest consumed and paid for their lunches, they set out for another baby care store that was offering a sale on various items like rocker cushions, shopping cart seat covers, and the like. A quick trip into a toy shop resulted in Bridget's purchasing several soft baby toys for her future grandchild. She had nearly bought items that sported a pink flower motif and would clearly be for a little girl, but Wheeler urged her to take the toys with a yellow, smiley face motif instead, for they didn't know for sure if he would have a daughter.
"Can we give you a lift back home, Ma?" Wheeler asked as the group gathered back at the Geo-cruiser.
"You don't mind?" Mrs. Wheeler responded; she didn't really feel like going back on the subway at this hour of the day with the hustling crowds, but she didn't want her son and his friends to go out of there way for her either.
"We would be happy to drop you off," Kwame answered politely offering his hand to the older woman and helping her onboard.
"Welcome to the Geo-cruiser Ma, the sole craft used by Planeteer Airlines. The on board staff asks that there be no smoking and no drinking during this flight. Hard candies normally would be available; however, I ate the last one this morning. Unfortunately, we don't have any complementary newspapers, as we recycled them the last time we came to town. Just the same, we hope you will enjoy your flight on Planeteer Airlines." Wheeler grinned and caused everyone else to laugh at his hilarious lines.
Bridget smiled back at her son, letting him know she was always amazed at his quick wit and creative mind. After gazing around the interior of the cabin, she settled next to her son.
"Here is the seatbelt" Linka pointed to the buckle and the safety strap as Gi closed the hatch and went through the pre-flight checks on auto-pilot.
The Oriental pilot had taken the drivers seat so often that preparing for take off had become second nature. "Everyone ready?" she asked as she revved up the solar powered vehicle.
"Yes," everyone replied with a nod or a casual wave of the hand.
"Then here we go!" Gi made a dramatic announcement as she pulled back on the controls.
The small craft smoothly rose into the air and glided across the city skyline, towards inner city Brooklyn and the backstreet that Wheeler's family had called home for as long as he could remember. It wasn't long before Gi landed the craft and opened the doors to allow the beaming and wide eyed grandmother-to-be to disembark.
"Now that's the way to travel!" she laughed as she climbed out and stood on the building's roof. "Are you coming to see your dad love, I'm sure he'd appreciate it."
Wheeler looked to his friends, silently asking if he had time for a quick hello.
"Go on, Wheeler, we will wait," Ma-Ti gestured to the apartment building underneath him with a wink; after all, it wasn't like they were late for anything.
Scrambling out beside his mother, the pregnant man straightened his top and pulled his knee length shorts back up where they had slipped a bit. Immediately, the mother and son set off for the fire door and down to the 3rd floor flat.
"I'm back, Joe!" Bridget called as soon as she opened the door. "I brought someone to say hello," she added as Wheeler stepped aside so she could close the door.
"Hi pop!" Wheeler hollered his own greeting as he wandered towards the front room.
"Hey son, have fun? Grrr . . . "Joe winced in discomfort as he sat up; spilling the pages of the newspaper he had been reading all over the floor. He had been lying on the sofa most of the day feeling absolutely rotten, and Bridget had been so worried that morning that she had offered to cancel her plans. Not wanting to deny the future grandmother the chance to buy baby things for the first Wheeler grandchild, he had firmly told her that he would be fine and that she should go and have a day off from being his nurse.
"Great, went a bit overboard on baby stuff, but it was fun. Are you alright?" the redhead asked tenderly as he gently sat down and looked at his father with a worried expression darkening his face.
"Yeah, some days is better than others, I just had a few bad'uns recently that's all" Joe tried to smile reassuringly in hopes of hiding just how poorly he had been feeling all day.
"They still haven't found a match then?" Wheeler asked solemnly. Much as he hated to think of it, the possibility of losing his father was strong. However much Joe hid his symptoms Wheeler could tell he was very ill and likely not long for this world
"No, you know I got a rare tissue type, there just isn't that many opportunities."
"You know I'd be a live donor for you if I could-"
"Yo, we been through all that, mister!" Joe interrupted his son as he fixed him with the sternest facial expression he could chisel out in his present state. "You were still recoverin' from major surgery and those serious injuries when they said my liver was shot; the doc wouldn't let you get tested while you still had those meds in your system; You had walking pneumonia when you were s'posed to go back for the test; and I told you then that I didn't wancha goin' through with it. I'm on the transplant list, and there aren't any people with my blood and tissue type aheadda me; so I'll get the first liver that matches."
"I shouldn't 'ave listened to you!" Wheeler cried, regretting to have yielded his stubbornness and realizing that move might cost him his father. "I shoulda gone in and gotten tested. Problem is if I go in now I don't think they'd have me with junior on the way." Wheeler spoke quietly making it clear that he would perform the ultimate sacrifice and put his own life in danger if only it were possible to save his father's life, even if he didn't approve of how the older man got himself into that situation in the first place.
"I appreciate that son, and I know you mean well; but even if you weren't pregnant, I'm not sure I'd letcha. Well anyways, I got something to live for now." Joe gently nudged Wheelers distended stomach, trying to lighten the mood that had fallen over both of them. "Ya know, they say optimism is the best bet. Don't worry, something will come through." Joe smiled and patted his sons back "You staying?" he asked as he scooped up the fallen newspaper pages.
"No, just thought I'd come and say hi," Wheeler responded before he quickly wrapped his arms around the older mans shoulders and hugged him tightly. "I love you, Pop," he murmured as he pulled away with tears in his eyes.
"I seem to have something in my eye too," the ex-soldier muttered, wiping a tear away with one finger. "Don't be a stranger son" he added as Wheeler stood and turned to leave
"See ya, Pop," he waved
"Are you off now?" Bridget turned from her preparation of dinner.
"Yeah, I'd better get going. The Planeteers are waiting for me." Wheeler hugged his mother firmly and pecked her on the cheek.
"It will be alright you know something will come through" the older woman whispered, having overheard the conversation between father and son. She had often prayed that a liver would come through in time, for it seemed so unfair that Wheeler should lose his dad so soon after getting to know him.
"Yeah, see ya, Ma." Wheeler wiped his own tears away and quietly left to rejoin his friends. After having climbed up to the roof, he sedately boarded the cruiser without saying a single word and strapped himself into his seat, a blank look making itself known on his face.
"Your so quiet, Wheeler, did something happen?" Gi asked as she set the familiar course for home.
"I had no idea my dad was so bad off. I'm just scared I'm going to lose him: There's no way . . . I couldn't bare that . . ." the redhead admitted quietly.
"He is on the transplant list though is he not?" Kwame asked.
"Yeah, but he's got a rare tissue type. Its making it that much harder for them to find a new liver," Wheeler sniffed and sighed deeply. "Worst of all is I was never tested to see if I could be a match, I couldn't go in when I first found out he was sick because of the medication I was on after I got hurt; When I had that appointment set up after the drugs got outta my blood stream, I got sick; and then Pop wouldn't let me go in for testing again. I was stupid and listened to him back then . . . but I'm not in a position to help him now." The young man patted his stomach. "Not that he would let me risk my life for him anyways."
"Something will be to turning up, Yankee. It is a miracle that you are having a baby. Maybe you will get another miracle and get your father back too," Linka offered some comfort to her comrade, wrapping her arm around his shoulders.
Although she was not a devout member of the Russian orthodox faith, she had been brought up to believe in God. Even though her logical mind found no reason to accept religion, Linka did believe in miracles; and she dearly hoped her friend would finally find happiness in becoming a dad after such a difficult childhood, and that he would see his own father living to a ripe old age – even attending his grandchild's college graduation, the child's wedding, and the birth of his first great grandchild!
"Thanks, Linka, that means a lot." Wheeler cracked a half smile and gulped a rock of emotion that felt as though it were clogging his throat. He knew his friends were right; thinking only of the worst outcome wouldn't help anyone. It was better to hope for a miracle and think positively. Anyway, he had his own life to sort out, especially with a new baby on the way.
Once he had arrived home, the young father realized he needed a distraction from his fears concerning his own dad, so he grabbed a list that Bridget had written out by hand. He noticed the pen had faded in spots, but he could still make out what she was trying to convey. After booting up the computer the Planeteers kept in the common room, Wheeler busily transcribed the list into type written form.
"What's that?" Gi asked as Wheeler printed off the paper and pulled it from the tray.
"I typed up Ma's list of baby things that I'm gonna need; thought I could cross them off as I get them, so I know where I am," the redhead responded, quickly marking the bits he had bought earlier.
"That sounds like a good idea. Perhaps, you should pin it on the notice board; then maybe we can get some of the other things for you," Linka made her suggestion as an idea formed in her mind.
"Thanks, I was going to pin it up to remind me anyways. You guys know I don't expect you to buy things for the baby . . . don't you?" the fire Planeteer asked as he quickly pulled some pins from the board and secured the list into place.
Baby Basics (according to ma!).
Bath Time and general care:
Baby bath
Baby nail scissors
Brush and comb set
Washing bowl
Bath thermometer
Bath support
Baby bath supply box
Towels and change mat
Baby toiletries
Baby wipes
Diapers
Cotton wool (delicate material that is used to wipe and clean bottom)
Diaper rash prevention cream
Diaper pail or bag
Nursery:
Crib
4 fitted mattress sheets for crib.
New mattress
4x fitted and 4x top sheets
2x blankets
Room thermometer
Chest of drawers and/or wardrobe
Shelves
Nursing chair
Changing unit (table or board that hooks over crib)
Out and about:
Stroller
Baby carrier
Car seat
Head support cushions
Sun blinds
Parasol
Awning for stroller
2x stroller blankets
Feeding:
6x feeding bottles
6x nipples
Instant milk formula
Sterilizing equipment
Bottle and nipple brush
Muslin squares for burping, etc.
Bottle warmer
Bibs
Play time:
Crib mobile
Bouncing cradle/swing
Play-nest, gym or mat.
2 x soft rattles
2x soft fabric books
Soft newborn cuddly toy
Baby Clothes:
6-8x sleepy suits
6-8x bodysuits/vests
3-4x daywear outfits
2x cardigans
2-3x pairs socks
2-3x pairs scratch mitts
2 hats
Jacket/baby buggy suit
Shawl
Optional Extras:
Sleeping bag
Coverlet (light blanket)
Monitor
Crib light
Pacifiers
Portable play pen
"Of course, but we want to help out, after all we are about to become aunts and uncles," Ma-Ti beamed, clearly looking forward to no longer being the youngest member of the group.
"Bozhe Moy! I never knew you needed so much for one little baby," Linka exclaimed as she examined the list.
"Neither did I," Wheeler agreed, reaching over for the ringing cordless phone. "Yo, Wheeler here . . . oh hi Trish how's it going . . . That's alright, it was a shock . . . I know . . . yeah, Like being in a bad episode of Star Trek; talk about going where no man has gone before . . . . You're right, if only it was Quantum Leap then I could just disappear before the painful part . . . no really its ok, I mean I was kinda bugged that you had taken it so badly . . . . Most people that have found out go all thoughtful and then just suddenly get all happy and congratulate me . . . . Hehehe how did I know that was coming? I tell you this baby is going to have so many aunts and uncles. . . . So, what are you up to right now? Oh man, that sounds cool . . . uh . . . well I don't know if I can make it to the opening . . . depends how big I am I guess. If I can pull it off, I'll do it. Alright thanks for calling. No its fine; see you soon. Bye."
The curious Planeteers listened to the one sided conversation. So far, Trish had been the only person to have reacted badly to the news of Wheeler's pregnancy, and each hoped that this phone call would herald good news.
"Is everything ok?" Gi asked as Wheeler replaced the phone.
"Everything's great. Trish was just calling to apologize for freaking out on me earlier when we were at the mall. She was saying that she just got a big commission from the New York Gallery. You know how I told you she wanted to be an artist; looks like the Down And Out Mob is finally getting its day!" the redhead commented with a happy smile.
Wheeler had only spoken once of his time living on the streets, how he had formed a group with Trish and Frankie, who had both practically been in the care of Social Services from birth until they ran away and set up home in Central Park. They had called themselves the Down And Out Mob as a joke, for all of them came from undesirable backgrounds as far as society was concerned; and they were all predicted to end up in the gutter, frequent the bars, live off the state, and make nothing of themselves.
Trish had always wanted to be an artist, and she expressed her talent by decorating the small tree-house that the trio shared with bright and unusual designs and realistic portraits. Unfortunately, they were moved on by the police and placed into a children's shelter, and Trish found it very hard to establish herself as a freelancer; her problem was that no one would take her on as an artist or give her a job to make money without an address. There had seemed to be no way out of the gutter for the talented young woman until Bridget, upon finding her son, had noticed the beautiful drawings and offered the Wheeler's address as a base until she was able to get on her feet. It had been the turning point; with a steady job, Trish had managed to save up for her own place and sold a few pieces of art to passers-by. One day she had sold a picture to a young boy whose uncle worked promoting the creations of aspiring artists. He immediately introduced himself and since then Trish's artistic status had exploded. She was the hottest new talent of the decade as far as the art world was concerned; and now came her biggest triumph - a show exclusively of her paintings was going to be held in the biggest art gallery in New York City!
Unhappily, Frankie had not been so lucky the day that Skumm had come to town to cause a riot like the one that erupted in L.A. in early 1992. Not wanting to be teased by the other gang members he ran with, he had hopped a train, which resulted in his untimely death. It had been a huge loss to the fire Planeteer and another reason to fuel his determination to stop Skumm and the eco-villains from succeeding in their plans to recreate the riots.
With no warning, Wheeler's reflections were cut short by a strange sensation he felt in his tummy. After he took a momentary pause, he focused all his attention on his bump in hopes the strange feeling would make a repeat performance. Low and behold, it did, and a dumbstruck Wheeler froze in his tracks at the realization that floated through his head.
"Oh my go-go-gosh . . . There's no turning b-b-b-b-back now; there's a baby in . . . in there," he stuttered as he rested a hand on his bulging front.
"You felt the baby moving?" Gi gasped in wonder.
"What does it feel like, Yankee?" a curious Linka questioned.
"I dunno . . . kinda like butterflies or something," was all Wheeler could think to say.
"Do you suppose we can feel it?" Kwame queried as he approached his pal and rested a dark hand on a stomach and felt nothing. "Perhaps the baby does not like strangers."
"Nah, I don't think other people will feel the munchkin for a while; at least that's what the books say anyways," Wheeler said shortly before another wiggling sensation caught his attention.
This truly was the year of turn around for the remaining members of the Down And Out Mob with Trish taking off as an established artist and Wheeler being a few short months away from becoming a single parent. The thought of fatherhood was a joyous one, but it also sparked some scary flashes the redhead was not prepared to talk about – at least not yet.