Mending the Mechanic's Heart

Homecoming

The drive back to the pack house was filled with a comforting sense of relief. After everything that had happened, Pon was finally being discharged from the hospital, and Sailub couldn't wait to get him home. Aon was nestled in Pon's lap in the backseat, babbling happily about being a big brother, a fact he had just learned from his parents.

As they pulled up to the pack house, Pon couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and security wash over him. The familiar sight of the house, surrounded by lush greenery and filled with the love and support of their pack, was exactly what he needed. Sailub parked the car and quickly got out, moving around to help Pon and Aon out of the vehicle.

"Careful, love," Sailub said softly as he helped Pon to his feet, his hand resting protectively on Pon's lower back. Pon smiled up at him, grateful for his alpha's unwavering support.

Aon, eager to share the news with everyone, wriggled out of Pon's arms and rushed toward the house, his little feet pattering excitedly on the path. "I'm going to be a big brother!" he shouted, his voice carrying through the open doorway.

Inside the house, the pack was gathered, having been notified by Sailub that Pon would be coming home. Pooh was the first to appear, stepping out onto the porch with a broad smile on his face. Pavel, Nut, and the rest of the pack quickly followed, curious about Aon's enthusiastic declaration.

"A big brother, huh?" Pooh asked, scooping Aon up into his arms as the pup ran to him. "What's this all about, little man?"

Aon nodded vigorously, his face beaming with pride. "Yes! Papa has a baby in his tummy! I'm going to be a big brother!"

The pack members exchanged surprised glances, and then their faces broke into wide smiles. The news spread quickly among them, filling the air with excitement and joy. Pavel, who had been standing next to Pooh, couldn't contain his happiness and ruffled Aon's hair affectionately.

"Is that true, Pon?" Nut asked as he stepped forward, his typically stoic expression softening with a rare smile.

Pon, now standing beside Sailub, nodded, his hand resting protectively on his abdomen. "Yes, it's true," he confirmed, his voice filled with a mix of joy and nervousness. "We just found out at the hospital."

The pack members cheered in response, their joy palpable as they gathered around Pon and Sailub. Pooh placed Aon down gently, moving to give his younger brother a gentle hug, careful not to put too much pressure on him. "I'm so happy for you, Pon," he said softly, his eyes misting with emotion. "You're going to be a wonderful parent to another pup."

Pon returned the hug, feeling tears prick at the corners of his eyes. "Thank you, Pooh," he whispered. "I'm so glad you're here."

As they pulled back, Mrs. Hemmawich appeared, her expression a mix of joy and concern. She had been by their side through everything, and the relief in her eyes was evident. "Oh, Pon, my dear," she said, her voice trembling slightly as she pulled Pon into a gentle embrace. "We're so happy for you. You and Sailub deserve all the happiness in the world."

Mr. Hemmawich, who had been standing back, finally stepped forward, his usually stern face softened with a smile. "You've made us proud, Pon," he said, placing a firm hand on Sailub's shoulder. "You both have. This pup will be blessed to be part of this family."

Sailub smiled at his father's words, a deep sense of pride swelling within him. The approval and support of his parents meant everything, and knowing that they were genuinely happy for him and Pon was a comfort beyond words.

Aon, who had been bouncing on his toes with excitement, tugged at his grandfather's pant leg, looking up at him with wide eyes. "Grandpa, I'm going to be a big brother!" he repeated, eager to make sure everyone understood just how important this news was.

Mr. Hemmawich chuckled, leaning down to pick Aon up. "Yes, you are, Aon," he said warmly. "And you're going to be the best big brother there ever was."

The room was filled with laughter and lighthearted conversation as everyone began to discuss the upcoming addition to the family. Pon was gently guided to the couch by Mrs. Hemmawich, who fussed over him with a motherly affection, making sure he was comfortable.

Sailub sat beside him, his hand never leaving Pon's. He watched as Aon excitedly shared the news with everyone, his little face glowing with pride. Seeing their pup so happy made all the recent stress and fear seem distant, as if the joy of this moment had the power to wash it all away.

As the evening wore on, the pack continued to celebrate the news, sharing stories, and making plans for the future. Mrs. Hemmawich began discussing baby preparations, already thinking ahead to what would be needed in the coming months. Pavel and Nut offered their help in setting up a nursery, while Pooh and the others assured Pon that they would be there to support him every step of the way.

Pon, who had been quietly taking it all in, felt a wave of emotion crash over him. The love and support of the pack, the excitement of the news, and the relief of being home were almost overwhelming. He leaned his head on Sailub's shoulder, feeling a deep sense of contentment.

Sailub turned his head to kiss Pon's temple, his voice soft as he spoke. "How are you feeling, love?"

Pon smiled, his eyes closing as he let the warmth of the moment wash over him. "I'm happy, Sailub. Really happy. It's just... I didn't expect all of this."

Sailub's heart swelled with affection as he tightened his hold on Pon. "You deserve all of this and more, Pon. We're going to take care of you, make sure you and the baby are safe and happy. You're not alone."

Pon nodded, feeling tears prick at his eyes once more. "I know. And that means everything to me."

As the evening drew to a close, the pack members began to settle down, letting Pon rest after the long day. Aon, who had been running around with boundless energy, finally began to tire, his little eyes drooping as he cuddled up next to his Papa.

Sailub gently lifted Aon into his arms, cradling him as the pup yawned widely. "Time for bed, little one," he murmured, his voice filled with love. Aon nodded sleepily, snuggling into his father's chest.

Mrs. Hemmawich helped Pon to his feet, her hands gentle as she guided him. "You too, Pon. You need your rest," she said softly, her motherly instincts kicking in. Pon nodded, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the care and love he was receiving.

As Sailub carried Aon upstairs, Pon followed slowly, his heart full. They reached their bedroom, and Sailub gently laid Aon in his crib, tucking him in carefully. Aon mumbled something incoherent, already half-asleep, and Pon couldn't help but smile at the sight.

Once Aon was settled, Sailub helped Pon into bed, making sure he was comfortable before slipping in beside him. He wrapped his arms around Pon, pulling him close as they lay together in the quiet of the night.

"Thank you, Sailub," Pon whispered, his voice barely audible. "For everything."

Sailub kissed the top of his head, his heart brimming with love. "There's nothing to thank me for, Pon. I love you, and I'll always be here for you and our family."

Pon sighed contentedly, finally allowing himself to relax completely. The future was uncertain, but for now, he felt safe and loved, surrounded by his family and his pack.

And that was all he needed.