WHAT IF

CHAPTER 11

The next morning, Charlie was awakened by soft whimpering sounds beside him. He quickly turned to find Babe beside him, clearly distressed and running a high fever. Panic surged through Charlie as he gently shook Babe's shoulder.

"Babe, hey, can you hear me?" Charlie's voice was laced with worry as he placed a hand on Babe's forehead, feeling the intense heat radiating from his skin.

Babe's eyes fluttered open, glazed with fever, and he let out a faint groan. "Charlie... I don't feel so good," he whispered weakly.

"Hold on, let me get you some help," Charlie said, trying to keep his voice calm despite the rising fear within him. He quickly got out of bed and grabbed a cold towel, placing it on Babe's forehead in an attempt to bring down the fever. After some time, it became clear that this wasn't working. Babe's condition seemed to worsen, and Charlie knew he needed to reach out for professional help.

Grabbing his phone, Charlie called the doctor and explained everything. The doctor listened carefully before responding, "Charlie, it sounds like Babe is starting his heat. I'll guide you through what you need to do."

Charlie's heart pounded in his chest as he absorbed the doctor's words. "What do I need to do?" he asked, his voice trembling slightly.

"First, give him the heat suppressants," the doctor instructed. Charlie immediately searched for them, wasting no time. With the doctor still on the line, he helped Babe take the painkillers and gave him a glass of water.

"Okay, doctor, what next?" Charlie asked.

"Monitor him from now on. You can also release your scent to him; it helps calm him down," the doctor advised. Charlie nodded, even though the doctor couldn't see him.

"So, how long will he be like this?" Charlie asked, concern evident in his voice.

"A heat cycle takes three days," the doctor replied. Sensing Charlie's reaction, he continued, 

"But there's another way to end his heat in one day."

"Which is?" Charlie asked with anticipation.

"By mating," the doctor said. The line went quiet for a moment.

"Oh, okay. Thank you, doctor," Charlie said, feeling a mix of emotions.
After disconnecting the phone, Charlie immediately dismissed the second option. That's something he'd have to discuss with Babe when he was sure the other was ready. For now, they'd stick to the suppressants.

Charlie stayed by Babe's side, refreshing the cold towel on his forehead and monitoring his temperature. He kept the room quiet and dim, trying to create a soothing environment. Occasionally, he'd emit a calming scent, hoping it would bring some comfort to Babe.

As the hours passed, Babe's fever slowly began to subside, and Charlie felt a flicker of relief. Despite the stress, he remained vigilant, knowing they had a long three days ahead of them. His only focus was on ensuring Babe's comfort and well-being, determined to help him through this difficult time.

For the next three days, Babe remained confined to their bedroom, leaving only occasionally to use the bathroom before returning to bed. He felt overwhelmingly weak, the heat draining him of his usual energy. With his condition, he dressed in nothing more than an oversized shirt and a pair of underwear to stay cool and comfortable.

Charlie was a constant presence, bringing meals to Babe regularly, though Babe's appetite was minimal. Despite his lack of hunger, he made sure to take a few bites of each meal, following the doctor's advice to drink plenty of water. Charlie would sit beside him, offering encouragement and gently reminding him of the importance of staying hydrated and nourished.

"Just a few more bites, Babe," Charlie would say softly, holding out a spoonful of soup. Babe would reluctantly comply, 

Charlie also ensured that Babe had everything he needed within arm's reach: water, medication, and anything else that might bring him comfort. He kept the room cool and dim, the perfect environment for Babe to rest and recuperate.

By the end of the third day, the worst of Babe's heat had passed. He still felt weak but there was a noticeable improvement in his energy levels.

                                                                   ***

When Babe was finally back on his feet, he acted as if nothing had happened. There was no need to make a big deal out of it because this was going to be part of his lifestyle for the rest of his life. He understood that he would undergo the ordeal called heat once a month, a phenomenon that could not be avoided.

Determined to move forward, Babe wanted to dive back into his passion: racing. He yearned to compete with his fellow X-Hunters again, to feel the rush of adrenaline as he sped down the track.

One sunny morning, after enough training, Babe was taking part in a tournament.  He was ready.

"Are you sure about this?" Charlie asked, his eyes filled with concern and pride.

Babe nodded, his determination evident. "I'm sure, Charlie. This is where I belong." Charlie gave him a reassuring smile. 

"Then let's get you back in the game."

Babe's return to the track was met with excitement and anticipation. His fellow racers welcomed him back, their camaraderie a comforting presence. The X-Hunters were ready to compete with him again, knowing that Babe's resilience and skill were unmatched.

As Babe climbed into his car, he felt a sense of peace wash over him. He was home. The engine roared to life, and with a nod to Charlie, he sped off, the thrill of the race coursing through his veins.

The first few laps were challenging, as he reacquainted himself with the intensity of racing. But with each turn and straightaway, Babe's confidence grew. His focus sharpened, and soon, he was racing as if he'd never left. Charlie watched from the sidelines with Alan together with North and Sonic, his heart swelling with pride. He knew this was where Babe belonged, and seeing him so alive and in his element filled Charlie with immense joy.

As the race progressed, Babe found himself in the lead. The crowd's cheers grew louder, spurring him on. With one final push, he crossed the finish line, victorious. Exhilarated, Babe climbed out of his car, greeted by his teammates and friends. They celebrated his return, their cheers echoing across the track. Babe couldn't help but smile, his heart full. Later, as they all gathered in the pit, Alan, Jeff, North, and Sonic joined them, their excitement palpable.

"That was incredible, Babe!" North exclaimed, clapping him on the back.

"You haven't lost your touch," Sonic added with a grin. Babe laughed, feeling a sense of accomplishment. 

"They call me Pit Babe for a reason."

As they stood together, surrounded by friends and the buzz of the racing world, Babe knew that he could face whatever challenges came his way.