Story:Is This a Dream?
Is This a Dream?
Written by Betsie
The giant shark had been in a combination of shock and awe when he heard his name announced by the commissioner. It had nearly brought tears to the tough Aussie’s eyes as he had sat for a long moment at his table, not sure what to say or do or think at the news. The amazing news that people all over the world had just heard, that his friends had just seen on the telly back at the hotel. It was only when he got a winged-arm upside the head from his agent that he’d shaken out of his stupor.
Barnaby’s eyes were glowing with happiness as he approached the stage and accepted the ball cap that sported his new team’s name and logo. It wasn’t until he was about to settle back into his seat that it all sunk in.
He’d just been selected as number five overall in the 2013 FBA draft...and it was by none other than the Dakota Bikers, reigning league champions.
The shark jumped and gave a whoop and holler of joy, unable to contain his happiness at this news. Aida was hugging him and they bounced around happily for a few moments before they realized the scene they were making and settled back into their seats. Barnaby was about to sip from his beer when he caught eyes with the Bikers GM; they shared grins and the shark raised his beer in a silent thanks before settling in for the rest of the night.
And even when Crosby Sutters was sitting on his lap, tipsy on champagne, Barnaby found his mind turning from celebration for a moment as he fell into thoughtful contemplation. He’d been drafted by the Bikers, a team known for their rough style of play, tough attitudes, and amazing team chemistry. Not only had his dream of becoming a player in the FBA come true, but it’d come true in the biggest way.
He got to play alongside big names like Redding, Malone, and Wayans. All of which he’d followed and somewhat idolised for quite some time now. On top of that he’d be with hard-hitters like Redfield and Quvianuq, both of which he felt he could stack up against (despite managing to be half a foot shorter than the polar bear).
“Ya did it, Bahbie.” His agent, Aida Fusca, said with a smile; she had been fantastic through all of this. Helpful, supportive, and just an all-around amazing anchor for him in all of this. Smiling back at her, the big shark reached out with his free arm and hugged her tightly, kissing her cheek with a toothy grin.
“Thanks to ya, Aida. Neveh woulda done it wit’out ya.” She was blushing, and it amused Barnaby to no end, but for a change he didn’t tease her about it and let it slide, settling in more comfortably. Within a few days, he’d be moving up to Sturgis to be with his team...starting practices with them...and he knew he had to show them what he was really made of. He couldn’t let the team down...couldn’t let his friends down...his agent down...most importantly, Barnaby couldn’t let himself down.
So even with his wild party following the draft, it was within 48 hours that he arrived in Sturgis, declining use of an offered hotel to stay with the “DQ” instead. When practices started, he was ready and raring to go.
And even with the knowledge that his life in Australia was slipping away from him, Barnaby couldn’t find himself sad. Yes, he’d miss his friends, the surf, the sand…
But here was the land of dreams. And the shark never wanted to wake up from this one.
Featured Characters
Barnaby Jazz Mitchell Redding Ryan Malone Jack Wayans