Several weeks had passed since Biscuit and Bingo started their therapy session together, things were slowly improving, however Biscuit still felt that he was the reason for all of his sister's worries. Nearly every night Bingo would stand at his door asking if she could sleep there. At one of their sessions she had admitted that she was terrified of being alone, she needed somebody close by to be able to sleep.
Dr. Poppy had listened and explained to Biscuit that Bingo needed somebody that understood what she was going through, after all she was way too young to understand and process the complex feelings she was going through. At first Biscuit had been hesitant, remembering the times Bingo had kicked him in the guts, or shoved him out of his own bed, but he also understood that Bingo needed it so he agreed.
That evening Biscuit noticed that Bingo was nervously standing in the doorway, clutching Floppy, her stuffed bunny, tightly. "Biscuit? Can I sleep here again? I'm scared." She whispered.
Biscuit looked at his sister with pity, both of them were struggling, but at least he was able to properly sleep. Bingo hadn't had a full night of sleep since she woke up in the hospital.
He patted the bed next to him, signalling Bingo it was fine. He was glad that their parents had obliged by giving him a bigger bed. At least it was big enough for two children. As Bingo crawled in he felt her warmth radiating, she comfortably snuggled against him and drifted off the sleep within minutes.
Meanwhile downstairs Chili and Bandit heard the shuffling of small paws towards Biscuit's room. It was the fourth night in a row and concern was etched on their faces. Bandit sighed, "I'm worried Chili. Bingo rarely is able to sleep without somebody closeby. I'm happy that their night terrors have stopped, but this can't go on."
"I know Bandit, it breaks my heart to see Bingo like this. She was always such a bright and happy kid. It also kinda hurts that she is not coming to us." Chili responded, looking up towards the second floor.
"We need them to talk, they talked a lot in therapy but I still have the feeling there is something they are repressing. Maybe we have to ask Rad and Frisky to talk to them." Bandit continued.
"Honey, that's normal. Kids don't tell their parents everything. I bet we were the same at that age. Radley told me Biscuit had told him he really liked this girl in his class, believe he said it was a red heeler." Chili assured Bandit.
"He has a crush? He is nine, that can't be true."
Chili chuckled with a twinkle in her eyes "I recall you telling the kids a story about your first crush when you were ten. Still I can't remember that it happened like you told them."
"Ow yhea. I guess you're right. And that 100% happened, I'm certain. Anyhow, I will give Rad a call in the morning. Maybe he can take them to the cabin." Bandit replied smiling.
The next morning
Sunlight streamed through Biscuit's bedroom, perfectly hitting the two kids in the bed. Bingo had miraculously taken up more than half the bed by sprawling out. Biscuit smiled, seeing he again was pushed to the side of the bed. He carefully got out making sure he didn't wake Bingo. Before leaving he tugged her in again, knowing how she loved to sleep in whenever possible.
Biscuit glanced at the clock and saw it was just 7:00 AM. They still had some time before they had to leave. Today was the last day of the season and he heard that today a scout might be visiting. He was a bit nervous about it, with everything that had happened he only played a few matches so he was a bit rusty. Luckily the team had managed to stay unbeaten. As long as they didn't lose the match they would be champions.
As he walked into the kitchen he noticed it was eerily quiet, normally Bluey would already be out and about around this time, but she was nowhere to be seen. He walked into the living room and flopped down on the couch with a book.
Nearly half an hour later Chili came downstairs, seeing that Biscuit was engrossed in a book. "Youre up early honey," She said, but the pup didn't respond, he was completely oblivious to his surroundings.
"Honey?" Chili tried again, moving closer but Biscuit still didn't respond. Chili frowned, sometimes Biscuit got hyperfocused on something he was doing, but this was excessive, even for him. She snapped her fingers next to his ears, but even that didn't give her a reaction.
Chili sighed, she knew what to do, but hated it. It always startled the boy and he would be out of it for some time. She grabbed the book and pulled it from his hands. Biscuit instantly responded, startled and confused as he looked around.
"Biscuit, when I call you I expect at least a response," Chili said with a stern voice, arms crossed.
Biscuit looked away, knowing what his mum meant. "Im sorry mum. I did it again, didn't I?" he muttered
Chili ruffled Biscuit's fur seeing he was a bit distressed about what happened. "Yes you did, I know you can get really focused on something you're doing, but at least keep track of what's happening around you."
"I will mum," Biscuit replied with a sheepish grin.
"Perfect, let's start breakfast for you and Bingo." Chili replied.
"What about Bluey and Dad? Don't they get breakfast." Biscuit asked, still a bit confused.
"They are getting breakfast at Winnie's" Chili reminded Biscuit.
After having eaten breakfast the three Heelers piled into Bobo, the family car. It was time to go to the hockey field for the last match of the season. Biscuit felt a mix of nerves and excitement as they got closer. The stakes were high, and he wanted to make his family proud.
At the playground
"Sorry Fido, I need to make a quick call before I forget it." Bandit said, while dailing his phone. He knew Fido wouldnt mind him making the call. Fido already knew most what was going on.
"Rad, good morning." Bandit greeted when Radley picked up the phone.
"I'm a good Bandit, but you know it's 7:30 on a Saturday right? Not all of us have young kids you know." Radley replied groggily.
"I sometimes forget you're not a morning person, Rad. Sorry. I need a favor. Could you talk to Bingo and Biscuit? Maybe they will open up to you guys. Stripe tried but it only made Bingo sad and Biscuit lash out."
"Classic Stripe" Radley chuckled. "I love my little brother but he's not the best to go for these kinds of things."
"I know Rad, but you guys were not available. Could you take them after Biscuits match?" Bandit continued.
"Yeah I think so, let me check... Wait... Thats today! Frisky, get up... We need to get ready to leave." Radley shouted "Yhea no problem Bandit... let me just arrange a few things. Should I also bring Bluey along?"
"No, if you bring Bluey it will turn out to them only playing games." Bandit said.
With that Bandit said his goodbyes and hung up the phone, feeling a sigh escape. Bandit was being plagued by doubts, why weren't his kids talking about this to him. He had always made sure he would listen and help them, but now they need him and they don't want the help. Was he failing as a parent? He felt some of his old anxieties starting to creep into his mind.
Flashback
Bandit sat on the floor, keeping watch over Biscuit as a baby. Biscuit was clumsily batting a toy back and forth and giggling. The sight filled Bandit with warmth, but anxiety stirred underneath. He felt like crap, he felt like he wasn't doing the best he could for Biscuit. Meanwhile Chili made it all look easy, she met Biscuits needs with grace and flowed through everything without effort.
"What if im doing everything wrong" Bandit muttered as he looked at how Chili picked up Biscuit to check on him. "What if others see me as the worst parent ever."
While Bandit was contemplating over his worries and fears the doorbell rang. Bandit stood up and opened the door only to be surprised. "Jake? What are you doing in Brisbane?" Bandit asked, surprised to see his childhood friend.
"Hey mate, yhea work send me to inspect the refinery here, so I thought lets drop by." Jake replied, shaking Bandit's hand. Seconds later Jake's eyes were pulled to a cooing and giggling Biscuit who was again playing with some toys.
"Hey Bandit, I didn't know you had a kid?" Jake asked now surprised. Bandit frowned, he was sure he sent Jake a card when Biscuit was born.
"This is Biscuit, he is now almost a year old." Bandit exclaimed proudly.
"Great to see mate, you and Chili deserve it." Jake replied, while the two of them sat down on the couch.
Once seated bandit leaned forward, furrowing his brow with worry. "Honestly mate, I'm really struggling with raising a child. For Chili it seems all natural, while I feel that whatever I do I mess it up. What if I'm not cut out to be a parent. What if I'm failing Biscuit?"
Jake listened carefully, nodding he understood. "I know how you feel Bandit, I had the same worries when Nathan was born."
Bandit let out a sigh, the weight of his worries feeling overwhelming "Im just terrified everybody thinks im the worst"
Jake smiled knowingly as he pulled out his phone. "Ok Bandit, let me show something that might change that." He scrolled through his photos till he found a picture of his family, three mischievous looking pups. "These are my kids, and believe me I made exactly the same mistakes as you with the first, only to repeat them with the other two."
"Really?" Bandit asked surprised.
"Yhea, I was just as anxious as you with every single one of them. But you know what? All three of them turned out fine." Jake said. "Even experienced parents make mistakes, but it's more important you're present for Biscuit. Make sure he feel loved and safe and you already doing the most important parts."
Bandit took a deep breath, feeling that some of the tension started to lift. Jake continued "I'm sure you're doing your best, and in the end that's what matters. They won't remember what you did for them in ten years, but their heart will tell you were there for them. Cherish these first few years Bandit, before you know it they stop needing you and you will have missed it all."
Biscuit climbed into Bandit's lap, wanting to snuggle against him. The sight of the pup completely trusting Bandit showed him that Jake was right. Perhaps he wasn't destined to be seen as the 'worst dad' ever.
"Thanks mate" Bandit said softly, a smile surfacing. "I think I needed to hear that."
"No worries mate. We might have not spoken in years, you're still one of my closest friends." Jake said reassuringly.
Jake left an hour later, leaving Bandit alone in the living room reflecting on what Jake told him. After a while Chili sat down next to him. "You know Bandit" She said gently "I have the same worries. I might look confident in what I'm doing, but I'm also winging it. The other day one of the other mums assured me I was great. I guess we are all just trying to figure it out"
End of flashback
While the old memory replayed in Bandits head his resolve solidified. They were doing everything they could, no one would expect their kids to experience something this traumatic. The trip should have been one of fun and exploration just transformed into something entirely else after the accident.
"Hey Bandit, how are Bingo and Biscuit? We haven't seen them for a while and Winnie has been asking about them." Fido's voice broke Bandit's thoughts.
At the mention of the other two heeler pups Bandits expression shifted to one of sadness. He knew Fido was asking out of genuine interest but it still filled Bandit with worry. "Honestly mate, it's been tough. They are both struggling, especially Bingo. Until a week or 2 ago both of them were having terrible night terrors. Biscuit is finally sleeping through the night again, but Bingo is having nightmares. Nearly every night we hear her asking Biscuit if she can sleep there."
"Im sorry to hear that Bandit, no kid should go through that." Fido replied sympathetically. "You know maybe move Bingo's bed to Biscuits room for now. Perhaps its enough if she knows hes in the same room"
Bandit looked at Fido dumbfounded, how come they hadn't thought about that. Fido made a good point.
"Thats a good idea, why didn't we think of that." Bandit said a bit annoyed.
They chatted for a while longer before it was time to head to Winnie's for breakfast. The mood gradually got better and Bandit felt the weight on his shoulders slowly lifting. After breakfast Bandit excused them as they now had to rush to get to Biscuits match in time. However with Fido's words and support Bandit was now sure they would be able to face the coming challenges.
At the hockey field
Chili, BIngo and Biscuit arrived at the hockey field, where the latter was already scanning the crowd for familiar faces. "Mum, you're sure that Dad is going to make it? He's not here yet and we start in ten minutes." Biscuit said, with a hint of worry.
"Yes Biscuit, he just texted me, he and Bluey are almost here. Rad and Frisky are already somewhere in the rafters." Chili assured him.
"Oh okay mum" Biscuit replied, visibly relieved that the most important adults in his life were all there for him.
Seconds later Lucas called out to Biscuit "Biscuit, Coach wants us in the locker room for the pitch!"
Biscuit signaled Lucas he understood before turning around to Chili "Seems I have to get ready Mum" He said hugging her before heading towards the locker rooms.
"You got this champ, have fun!" Chili replied as she watched Biscuit walking off. She wished he would always stay this age, full of wonder and curiosity.
In the locker room Coach was rallying the pups under his guidance, giving the team a rundown on the plan. Biscuit saw that the plan was going full offense. It would mean that he only had three defenders instead of four, Lucas, Roy and Quinn would form the defense.
After the gameplan was explained the four pups huddled together having their own small pep talk. "Okay guys, I'm sure we can do this. We are the last line, we will not falter, we will keep our goal clear" Biscuit declared determination shining in his eyes.
As they broke the huddle, Biscuit felt a knot forming in his stomach. Was he ready for this? He hadn't played in months. The match was crucial, not only for becoming champions but also for the potential of scouts.
The pups went on the field and got greeted by shouts of encouragement and excitement. The families of the players all were full of energy wanting to see their kids becoming champions.
The game started off like a typical match, both sides were probing to see what the best way to attack was. Lucas and Quinn made sure nothing was getting past them, giving Biscuit time to look around and direct the play. The first quarter ended without any goals, but Brandon and Jason, their team's attackers had put significant pressure on the opponent.
The second quarter heated up instantly when Jason executed a brilliant play, he and Brandon swiftly passed the ball between them giving the opponents defender only split seconds to respond. Seconds later Jason shot the ball into the net with great power, putting them ahead with one point.
While Biscuits team celebrated he was distracted, he was looking at the sidelines where the coach was pointing and talking with a large Saint Bernard. Something was familiar about the dog, but he couldn't remember where he had seen him before.
Chili got wind of Biscuit's distraction and followed his gaze. When she saw where he was looking she gasped and nudged her sister-in-law. "Trix? Isn't that the scout for the regional team!?" Chili exclaimed, pointing at the imposing dog.
"Yhea that's Tobias. Interesting, he must have somebody in the match he's interested in. I have never seen him on a game with players this young." Trixie replied excited.
Chili's tail was wagging with joy. "I know exactly who he is here for, Trix."
"What do you mean?" Trixie asked, puzzled.
"Remember when Biscuit had broken his arm? He was there for the next match and we talked for a bit. He mentioned he was there to watch the defenders of the team, he had been impressed by their previous matches." Chili said excitedly.
"Wait you're telling Tobias is here for Biscuit and his friends? That would be incredible, if Tobias recognizes them they are set." Trixie said.
Meanwhile Biscuit's gaze had shifted to his family, he saw that Chili and Trixie were excited which confused him. They still had a long way to go before they had won the match after all.
During halftime Biscuit walked towards Coach, still wondering who the Saint Bernard was. "Coach, who was the dog you were talking to?" Biscuit asked.
Coach looked at Biscuit and smiled "Nice catch, but that's something I'm telling you after the match mate." Coach responded, impressed that Biscuit caught it.
Biscuit felt a bit frustrated at the response, but understood. Coach wanted him to be focused. They were too close to now lose it all due to a distraction. They needed to win.
In the end, Biscuit's team secured a decisive victory with a 4-0 score. The pups had dominated and they lifted the two attackers in the air who had managed to make all the goals.
Just as Biscuit wanted to walk off to get a drink, Quinn and Lucas grabbed him, lifting him up in the air, celebrating him for the impressive saves and keeping his goal clear. He couldn't believe what was happening, but he felt proud as cheers erupted around him.
"Okay kids, put them down. Let me be the first to congratulate you guys on becoming champions." Coach said energetic while cheers erupted around him. "Next week we will celebrate it with a party. But first I have some news, as some have noticed there was a dog talking to me during the match" Coach continued, looking at Biscuit. "He was here for a good reason. It was a scout from the regional team who was looking at some of you. Six in total, and four of you have made it to tryouts in four weeks." Coach finished.
Biscuits' heart sank as the last part of Coaches announcement. Anxiety was grabbing him, surely he would be one of the two not selected. After all, he didn't do much in this game.
Coach continued with a smile. "Im excited to tell you guys who did make the cut: Quinn Husky, Roy and Lucas Border and last but not least," Coach turned to Biscuit "Biscuit Heeler!"
Biscuits confusion was visible, how could he be selected when he felt so useless during the game? He had hardly done anything? However deep down a flicker of joy ignited as he realized he really was chosen.
Seeing that the pup was utterly confused, Coach motioned Biscuit to come closer. "Biscuit, I assure you, you deserve it. Just talk to the scout, it will all make sense. He is talking with your aunt" Coach said while pointing towards Trixie, who was talking with Tobias at the entrance.
After celebrating a bit more with his friends Biscuit pushed through the wave of well-wishers. He needed to know, the curiosity was killing him. He went to find Trixie and Tobias.
As he spotted Trixie Biscuit called out "Aunt Trixie!"
"Hey champ, you played a great match. Ah Tobias, this is my nephew, Biscuit" Trixie introduced him proudly.
"Hi Biscuit, great to finally meet you. I have been here so many times to see you play. But every time something had happened. I'm glad to see your back." Tobias started
"But let's get to the important part first. Congratulations on the championship, you and your team did a great job. Besides that I'm also happy to say you made tryouts." Tobias said grinning.
"Hi sir! Thanks, but I don't get it? I didn't do much today. How did I get selected" Biscuit asked, his voice laced with nervousness.
"Ah, I already expected that question. But you're mistaken, while you maybe didn't have to do a lot of saves, I noticed something way more important. It was how you communicated with your teammates. They not only listened to you, but they followed your instructions without hesitation, they trusted you. It showed me they see you as their leader." Tobias explained earnestly.
Biscuit stared at him perplexed. He hadn't realized how much of an impact he had on the game by just playing support. "Its not about making goals and saving shots?"
"Yup, it's about understanding the game. You read your opponents plays, and facilitated trust within the team. That is what makes a good player."
Biscuit felt a surge of pride in his chest. Perhaps he had been more important in the match than he thought.
"Thank you sir!" Biscuit exclaimed "im going to try my best"
"That's great to hear mate, in that case I will see you in four weeks. Im looking forward to it" Tobias replied as he excused himself to talk to the other kids.
Radley joined Biscuit and Trixie a few minutes later. He greeted his nephew by ruffling the boy's head. "Hey kiddo. You did great out there. But I want to ask you something."
Biscuit tilted his head "Hi uncle Rad, whats up?" Biscuit asked, curious?
"I was thinking about taking you and Bingo to the cabin. I spoke with your dad and we think it might do you two some good being away from home." Radley proposed.
Biscuit didn't respond instantly, being a bit hesitant. He had always liked the cabin, but he didn't know if he wanted to go on a trip. But he looked at Radley and saw the hope in his uncle's eyes. Biscuit decided that it might be fun. "That would be awesome. When do you want to go?"
"Today. But we need to find Bingo first." Radley sniffed the air, grimacing. "And you need a shower first, you're a grub." Radley teased the sweat covered pup.
Biscuit grinned "But I like being a grub. But for aunt Frisky's sake I will take a shower. I'm back in ten minutes." Biscuit replied.
Once he had showered and was clean, Biscuit found Radley waiting outside with Frisky. "Ready mate?"
"Yep all cleaned up!" Biscuit announced happily. "Lets find Bingo."
The trio retraced their steps towards the rafters where they found Bingo chatting with some of her teammates. "Bingo!" Biscuit called, waving her over.
Bingo turned around and ran towards her brother. Her face broke out into a smile while she hugged him for becoming champions. "You're going to break me in half Bingo." Biscuit teased her.
Bingo quickly released him, muttering sorry. But Biscuit was still smiling "Guess what, uncle Rad wants to take us to the cabin!"
"WHAAAT!" Bingo exclaimed excitedly. Bingo had never been to the cabin before.
After a quick discussion with Bandit and Chili the group made their way to Radleys Ute. Bandit quickly loaded Bingos and Biscuits stuff into their uncle's car. Once they were all buckled in, Radley started the engine and the car drove away, leaving behind the energy and noise of the celebrations. The road promised Bingo and Biscuit adventure and new memories.
As they approached the gravel road to the cabin Biscuits couldn't contain his excitement any longer. "I can't wait to see the lake! And... And... Can we make a campfire?"
"Sure we can do that." Radley agreed, smiling at the infectious excitement of the pup. "We could even try to get some fresh fish."
Biscuit felt a smile spread across his muzzle "Yhea lets go fishing. I just hope there isn't a fish wanting to eat me this time!" he joked, recalling the time a big fish had pulled him and his fishing rod from the pier.
"Don't worry, I'll make sure none of them get you this time," Radley laughed, shaking his head at the memory.
When they finally arrived at the cabin, the scent of pine trees and fresh air engulfed them. The familiar surroundings brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding Biscuit of carefree days spent exploring and playing.
"Oh, it's even better than I thought!" Bingo exclaimed, jumping out of the car and running toward the door.
Biscuit followed suit, a feeling of joy filling him as he looked at the cabin nestled among the trees. It felt like the perfect place to relax and start fresh, to let go of the fears and anxieties that had been plaguing them both.
After unpacking, Radley suggested they head down to the lake to celebrate their first evening at the cabin. "Let's make the most of the sunny day! Who's ready for some fun?" he called, a smile spreading across his face as he grabbed a frisbee.
"Me! I want to go swimming!" Bingo shouted, already bouncing with excitement.
"Hold on, little one. Let's have a little frisbee fun first," Radley replied, taking the lead toward the water's edge.
As they played, Biscuit felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The past few weeks had been challenging, but moments like these made it all worthwhile. The laughter of his sister, the camaraderie with his uncle, and the thrill of new opportunities ahead painted a hopeful picture for the future.
