Chapter 1: The Spark

Norway win the euros and Ingrid's nephew sparks a special chain of events.

Chapter 2: Loading... Please hold

Mapi and Ingrid begin IVF, Alexia thinks Mapi's an addict and someone has surgery.

Chapter 3: Seeds and Spillages

Alexia and Irene finds out, Mapi thinks of a new tradition and Ingrid's got a surprise back injury.

Chapter 4: Scandi Senses

Frido finally figures it out, Ingrid gets sick and a special someone appears.

Chapter 5: The Perfect Present

Christmas means an extra special present for the team and their parents, Mapi won't take off her headphones and Ingrid's always sleeping.

Chapter 6: Feeling Peachy

Ingrid returns to social media sparking both positive and negative reactions, Barcelona win the Super Cup and peaches are all the rage.

Chapter 7: Daylight

Reveals, questions and holidays: February had it all

Ingrid's instagram post!

Chapter 8: The footballing gene

Baby Engen Leon has a mighty kick, plans for the future are made and Ingrid *attempts* to relax

Engagement announcement!

Chapter 9: DIY (Decorating in (Y)progress)

Patri, Pina and Aitana help decorate the nursery (it’s goes as well as you think), Barcelona face Chelsea AGAIN and Mapi and Ingrid go on a babymoon

Holiday dump!

Birthday post!

Uwcl post!

Chapter 10: Bank? Broken

The amount of baby clothes one can buy is infinite, the football season comes to an end and Frido and Ale are asked a very special question

Chapter 11: The waiting game

Whoever said pregnancy lasted 9 months is a liar, there are multiple false alarms and the polaroid tradition comes to an end

Birthday post!

Chapter 12: At last

It’s the last chapter, you already know what it’s about!

'cause i loved you from the very first day (the oneshot series):

1: Everything has changed

Mapi and Ingrid invite Frido and Alexia to meet their Goddaughter

Works in Progress!!

Link to my AO3!!

July 10th 2026, Barcelona, Spain

Week 40 had been and gone and Ingrid was still pregnant.

She was absolutely sick of it. She wanted, no, needed her baby girl to arrive in the next week. 

Ingrid had her birthing plan sorted but everyday they crept towards that dreaded induction date Ingrid got more and more nervous. By this point the Norwegian was over being pregnant: it was the middle of the summer, she was hot and tired, she constantly felt helpless and all Ingrid wanted was to hold her baby in her arms. 

Mapi did all that she could to help but the only thing that could truly mend how Ingrid felt was for their baby to arrive. They had tried everything possible to speed up the process: eating spicy food, going for long walks around their neighbourhood and along the beachfront, bouncing on the yoga ball and they’d stopped getting excited whenever Ingrid had braxton hicks.

mNothing worked. Baby girl was as snug as a bug in a rug inside of Ingrid and had made no move to enter the world. 

Whoever told them pregnancy lasted nine months was a liar. 

______

Mapi watched as Ingrid paced around their apartment for the millionth time. 

She couldn’t help but smile as she watched: Ingrid paced (or waddled really) around clad in soft pajama shorts and sleep shirt, her hands were positioned on her lower back rubbing circles into the skin to stop the near constant ache she felt now. 

It was still early in the morning but both women were up and wanting to soak up all the time they had left as a family of two. Mapi wanted to immortalise mornings like this forever, where there was no pressure for them to be somewhere or see someone. Ingrid was in her own bubble as she paced, Mapi could see that so she took the opportunity to video Ingrid, the Norwegian was glowing and Mapi couldn’t believe how close they were to meeting their baby. 

The Spaniard got up, her phone still recording as she propped it up on the sofa, and wandered over to Ingrid. Ingrid turned as she sensed Mapi behind her, the two of them shared a kiss before Mapi hit play on their record player. ‘At last’ by Etta James filled the room and Mapi moved Ingrid so her back hugged the Spaniard’s front.

“This would make an excellent wedding song,” Mapi commented as she lifted Ingrid’s bump up.

The relief on the Norwegian’s face was instant, something they’d notice when looking back at the video Mapi took, “Oh yeah?” She sighed.

“Yeah,” Mapi hummed, hands rubbing the underside of Ingrid’s belly, “How about I run you a bath?”

“Yes please, that sounds wonderful.”

The centre back started to lower Ingrid’s bump so she could run the bath but she was quickly stopped, “Not yet,” the Norwegian started, “Another minute please.”

Mapi laughed and obliged, she knew as much as Ingrid loved being pregnant and how they were both obsessed with seeing their girl grow inside of her they were more than ready to become mothers and Ingrid was more than ready to not have to lug an extra weight around everyday.

Eventually, Mapi’s arms got tired so she had to pull away.

“I love you,” she said, “Get comfy and I’ll come and get you in a minute.”

Before she made her way back to Ingrid, Mapi made sure that the bath was of an adequate temperature and contained Ingrid’s favourite bath salts and oils. It was then that the Spaniard directed her fiancee into the tub. She made sure Ingrid was comfy and walked to the kitchen to make a start on breakfast.

Mapi busied herself with cooking bacon and scrambling eggs to pair with some toast, she’d give Ingrid some time to relax she thought, only starting to set the table when she heard the bath water begin to drain. 

Ingrid came into the kitchen minutes later in just pants and a sports bra, “Maria…” She called.

Mapi turned and her jaw dropped, “Princesa… She’s dropped.”

Ingrid had taken note of the change in her body whilst getting dressed and to Mapi she was a sight to behold. 

“She’s so low I can barely walk. Surely this means she’s coming soon, right?”

The Spaniard picked her jaw off of the floor and led her girlfriend to the table so they could eat, “I hope so, mi amor.”

They ate in peace but towards the end of their meal Mapi could tell that Ingrid was lagging, their early morning tired the Norwegian quicker than normal. She helped Ingrid up and they slowly walked to their bedroom, the lower weight slowing Ingrid more than before. Mapi helped her fiancee into bed first before getting in herself - Ingrid hugged her pregnancy pillow, easily falling into a deep slumber as Mapi sat up, the duvet covering both of them, and drew. 

Ingrid woke up hours later with a groan, a strange tightness bloomed across her stomach, it was different to anything she’d felt before. The feeling wasn’t painful per say, just different. She reached an arm to the other side of the bed which was cold and empty, Mapi must’ve been elsewhere in the apartment. 

She sat up and waited for Mapi to return - this was a common routine whenever Ingrid fell asleep as Mapi would duck in and out of the room checking that Ingrid was still peaceful. After a few seconds the pain went away and Ingrid settled upright to read a book from her bedside table. Fifteen minutes later the same pain returned to her stomach.

That was how Mapi found Ingrid. The Spaniard entered the room quietly with the expectation that Ingrid was still asleep to which she wasn’t. The book was abandoned on the duvet next to her as Ingrid’s hands were on her bump, rubbing it as she winced.

Ingrid felt the bed dip as Mapi sat beside her, “How long?” The Spaniard questioned.

The Norwegian took her time to answer, only opening her eyes as the pain faded, “I don’t really know. The last one woke me up and that was fifteen minutes ago.”

Mapi stroked up and down Ingrid’s arm as the Norwegian got choked up before speaking again, “This pain is different Maria, I think I’m in labor…”

“We’re having a baby?”

“We’re having a baby.”

Ingrid’s chuckle was watery with tears as Mapi kissed her temple, they connected foreheads as Mapi said, “I am so proud of you Ingrid, you’ve got this.”

The two of them stayed in their bubble for a while, both knowing the time to meet their baby girl was getting closer and closer. It didn’t last long though as panic coursed through Mapi.

“We unpacked the hospital bag! Where’s the list?” She shrieked, starting to grab anything she could get her hands on to shove in their bag, “I’ve got to repack it!”

Ingrid shuffled so her legs hung off of the front of their bed, “Calm yourself, I’ve got the list here.”

They spent the next hour or so making sure everything they could possibly need is packed, Mapi taking the time to stop and watch over Ingrid each time she felt a contraction. The contractions stayed steady and came every fifteen minutes - way off the five minutes needed to go to hospital. 

Towards lunchtime Ingrid and Mapi drove to the beach to have one final walk along the beachfront with just the two of them. Neither could believe the next time they’d walk along here they’d have a baby with them, sometimes it didn’t feel real. 

Their conversation strayed from what they wanted for lunch as Ingrid’s grip on Mapi’s hand tightened. This one was closer, they both knew that so the Spaniard started a timer, only pausing it when another contraction came along. Soon, they wandered (or waddled in Ingrid’s case) back to their car, food in hand. Mapi drove back, glancing at Ingrid every so often and rubbing her thumb over Ingrid’s thigh as she heavily breathed through contractions. The timer Mapi had set told them they were at thirteen minute intervals and there was an obvious increase in pain each time they hit. 

Another one hit as Mapi parked in the apartment's car park, the two women sat until it ended: Mapi’s left hand on Ingrid’s shoulder, her forehead pressed to Ingrid’s temple and her right hand clutched Ingrid’s, letting the Norwegian squeeze as hard as she needed to. 

Eventually, they made their way up with Mapi persuading Ingrid to take the elevator despite the Norwegian’s protests that she could still walk up the four flights of stairs. Bagheera greeted them at the door, circling around Ingrid as Mapi slipped their shoes off.

“You know things are about to change, don’t you Bagheera?”

Ingrid stretched her back and uttered, “She always senses these things. I think she’ll be the best friend our daughter will ever have.” 

“Me too.”

They shared a soft smile and sat for lunch, the sandwiches Mapi had bought calling their names. 

“These are so good,” Ingrid sighed, “But I cannot wait to eat real food soon.”

“Real food?”

“Like sushi. Have you seen that picture of a woman whose first meal after birth was a huge plate of sushi? I need that.”

Mapi laughed, getting face to face with Ingrid’s stomach, “You better hurry up Nena, your Mamma wants sushi.”

The Norwegian winced once again, head falling back against the chair, “She’s agreeing with you. God, we’ve crossed the boarder to be in pain now.” 

Mapi let Ingrid squeeze her hands, her grip was strong but Mapi knew by the end her hands may be broken, Ingrid wasn’t known for having a high pain tolerance.

“What can I do to make you feel better Princesa?”

“Can you get the yoga ball please? And put a movie on too, I need a distraction.”

“Of course mi amor.” Mapi sealed her words with a kiss to Ingrid’s forehead. She hurried back, not wanting to stray from the Norwegian for too long.

Mapi returned with the yoga ball and settled behind Ingrid who switched between rotating her hips and bouncing on the purple ball. Around half an hour into the movie Ingrid had been through a few more contractions, each one a little more painful than the last. The Spaniard helped Ingrid get through them though - she’d apply counter pressure to the lower part of Ingrid’s back to ease the pain, a method that currently worked. 

The last contraction peaked and dipped as Ingrid spoke again, she leant back into Mapi and asked, “Should we call anyone? Our parents deserve to know and it’s not like any of them can get here quickly.”

“Good idea, I’ll tell them all to arrive tomorrow, God knows how long labor will take.”

“Don’t say that Maria, I just want her out of here!”

Mapi laughed at that, it had been over six hours since Ingrid woke up to a contraction and progress had been slow but that was to be expected with a first baby. They alternated positions every once in a while, Ingrid groaned as Mapi massaged her back and hips, it was such a relief compared to the pain and tightness of the contractions that wrecked her every so often. 

The Norwegian had gotten sick of lying and of the yoga ball in general so the couple moved to swaying. What was playing on the TV had changed as well as a calm genre of music echoed through the walls. Bagheera had also joined the players, she lazed on the sofa, her soft snores being the only other noise to the music and Ingrid’s whimpers. Now the women found themselves standing with Ingrid’s hands wrapped around Mapi’s neck and her face burrowed against the Spaniard. They stayed like that for a while, the contractions coming every ten minutes now, Mapi hushed Ingrid with sweet nothings commanding her for her bravery. 

When the next contraction passed something shifted, Ingrid felt a pop and seconds later fluid covered both of their feet. 

“That- That was my water.” Ingrid couldn’t take her eyes off of the wet patch over both of them and the floor. 

Mapi looked at her fiancee, equal parts shocked and excited, they were that much closer to meeting their baby girl. She took Ingrid’s hands away from her neck and led the other woman to their bathroom. As she started the shower Mapi looked at Ingrid who gripped the bathroom’s counter, her hips moved from side to side as her body was wrecked with another contraction. 

The Spaniard stood behind her and lightly rubbed Ingrid’s back whilst waiting for the pain to end, “I read somewhere that warm water was good for relaxation and pain relief,” the older woman stated, “So we’re going to sway under here either until the hot water runs out or the contractions are close enough to go to hospital.”

Once Ingrid was under the stream of water she breathed a huge sigh of relief, it was calm in the shower as the water soothed her muscles and her mind. Her arms circled Mapi’s neck the second the older woman stepped into the shower and they resumed swaying once more. They didn’t need to fill the room with conversation, being with one another was enough. From time to time - which was getting more frequent by the hour - Ingrid would moan as contractions engulfed her bump and Mapi would press kisses to whichever part of her counterpart she could reach. Ingrid was so incredibly strong and Mapi wanted to show her that in any way she could. 

“Maria,” Ingrid’s voice came out as a whisper. They’d be under the shower for around an hour at this point and the silence, although nice, had allowed Ingrid’s anxiety to skyrocket, “I’m scared.”

“Princesa, trust me, you have nothing to be worried about. I am going to be with you the whole time and I know for a fact that you will be just fine.”

“You can’t be sure! There are so many birth horror stories and I can’t help but think that could happen to us! Things could go south in a second and it scares me to death.”

Mapi pulled back for a minute to connect Ingrid’s forehead with her own, “You’re right, things can suddenly go wrong. But Princesa you are strong, you fight for everything and you’ll fight for this no matter what. Am I worried? Of course, but I will focus on everything good that can happen because I have you - you’re magic Ingrid.”

It was then the Norwegian broke down crying, “You always know what to say!”

Hour after hour passed as the two women stood under the shower and the sun had already dipped by the time the water ran cold. It was getting late and Mapi knew it would be good for Ingrid to get some sleep, to get a final chunk of rest before their lives changed forever. Mapi read the clock on her bedside table, 18:23 shone in red, it was way before their usual bedtime but Ingrid had been able to fall asleep anywhere at any time for the majority of her pregnancy and Mapi didn’t doubt that she’d be able to do that now. 

Both women got dry and dressed to settle in for whatever sleep they could manage to get. It was a familiar sleeping position they found themselves in: Mapi on her back, one arm wrapped around Ingrid to pull her tightly in and to snuggle as close as possible, Ingrid was on her side, her head pillowed on Mapi’s shoulder as she slowly fell asleep. The Spaniard could see how the lines that plagued Ingrid’s forehead with contractions disappeared, she counted her lucky stars, knowing better than anyone how much Ingrid needed this respite. Bagheera joined them too - she stood at the end of the bed carefully watching the couple as Mapi rubbed Ingrid’s stomach to ease the tightness that encompassed her fiancee. Her timer was still going and they were down to seven minutes. It wasn’t the five-one-one they hoped for but it was progress. 

Mapi took her time to look around their bedroom, her eyes darted from the cot at the end of the bed to the Barcelona Mamma and Mami shirts they had been gifted with at Christmas to the collection of medals lined up above their headboard. The gold medal from the Euros shone the brightest and Mapi reminisced, she smiled at that medal as it was the reason they were in this position about to meet their own baby. 

Soon sleep overtook Mapi, her head on top as Ingrid’s as her soft snores filled the room. 

“Oh God!” Ingrid cried, she woke up with a start. Now this contraction was a lot more painful than any other she had felt that day. 

She shouted for Mapi who came bursting through the door a moment later, “I’m here Princesa! I was just packing the car!”

Ingrid looked confused at that - the plan was to take the hospital bag down when it was time to go to the hospital. 

Unless…

“I woke up earlier and restarted the timer, Ingrid, the contractions are five minutes apart. They have been for the last half an hour. It’s time to go.”

“I- What? Now? I don’t think I’m ready!”

“Ingrid,” Mapi cupped the Norwegian’s face with her hands, “She’s a week overdue, of course you’re ready!”

“It’s just that leaving the apartment makes it that extra bit more real. We’re actually about to meet our baby.”

“You're scared aren’t you?”

“Terrifed.”

“Don’t be. I’ve got you Princesa and so have all the doctors and nurses. You’ve got this, Ingrid Syrstad Engen.”

“Okay, let's go have a baby.”

“That’s the spirit!”

The clock struck ten as Mapi pulled into the hospital car park. 

Anxiety coursed through both women as they entered the hospital as they knew that the next time they’d walk out of there, they’d be carrying a baby.

It was happening, finally.

Mapi and Ingrid were quickly shown to their room on the maternity ward, the only pause being the contraction Ingrid had in the elevator. 

Maya, the midwife who had supported the couple throughout this journey met them at the room’s door. 

“Ingrid, Mapi, I am very glad to see you two tonight! It’s finally time!” Maya was overjoyed and ready to support the pair in any way she was needed. 

She helped Ingrid settle into the room: the Norwegian changed into a hospital gown, got on the bed and was in position to be measured. 

“Okay,” She began, removing her hand from between Ingrid’s legs, “So you are currently five centimetres dilated meaning we have a few options to choose from… I am aware that you want an epidural Ingrid, is that still true?”

Ingrid nodded.

“We can get that put in now but it will limit you to this bed for the majority of your labor. The other option is to wait until you are further along, this would only be for a few more centimetres as the epidural needs time to work. It all depends on how active you want to be during labor.”

“What do you think, mi amor?” Mapi said, brushing a strand of Ingrid’s hair behind her ear.

Ingrid looked from Mapi to Maya, “We’ll wait a little longer. We’ve got this far, what’s a couple more hours.”

“Okay!”

Their midwife exited the room allowing both Mapi and Ingrid to take a deep breath. 

They were at the hospital about to have a baby, their baby, it was finally happening.

“Hand!” Ingrid exclaimed a minute later, she was in the midst of another contraction. Mapi took the hand offered and almost screeched at the force Ingrid held her with. The Norwegian seemed to have super ;.strength.

Considering how close they were to getting an epidural Ingrid wanted to be on her feet for as long as possible. In between contractions Ingrid walked around the room, Mapi’s hand locked onto hers and ready to be squeezed when Ingrid was in pain. By this point it was getting closer to midnight and Mapi could see that Ingrid was getting tired with every step. Ingrid’s steps were in slow motion and during contractions she’d fold over the edge of the bed with tears pricking her eyes as Mapi attempted to sooth her. Eventually, she had to take a seat on the hospital issued birthing ball, the pain unbearable now. Mapi kept putting pressure on Ingrid’s back but to her dismay there was no relief for Ingrid. 

Nothing could help Ingrid’s pain anymore, not even Mapi. 

The Spaniard hated it - sitting on the sidelines helpless - but she knew there was one thing that could help her fiancee, she just needed Ingrid to realise she didn’t need to be strong 24/7. It would be okay for the Norwegian to accept help, she wasn’t a failure but rather asking for help made her braver in Mapi’s eyes.

“Princesa… I think it's time for the epidural. It’s okay to have it, you know that.”

Ingrid nodded at Mapi’s words, she was now in too much pain to form coherent sentences.

The older woman pushed the call button and Maya entered almost immediately. She explained the situation and that it was time to give Ingrid some relief, she deserved it. Maya agreed, especially after checking Ingrid, she was dilated seven centimetres.

The anesthesiologist came next to administer the epidural. Mapi and Maya helped Ingrid into a sitting position on the side of the bed, ensuring that her back was uncovered and that she was able to hold onto Mapi for support. Ingrid felt a prick in her back, something that nearly rivaled the contractions she felt but that painful sensation dulled down after ten minutes as the epidural took effect. Mapi helped her lie down and Maya attached more monitors to her belly to keep track of their baby girl. 

The clock struck 00:30 as Ingrid got some much needed sleep. She faced Mapi as she slept, her hand loosely holding the Spaniard’s, their love and connection maintained even as they slept.

She then awoke two hours later to a hand stroking her hair and a faint tightness in her stomach. Her eyes opened, they landed on Mapi who smiled.

“I would say good morning Ingrid but it's too early for that. It is the next day though so I think the baby's birthday is confirmed - July 11th.”

“How long was I asleep for?”

“Two hours,” Mapi said, hand still dragging through Ingrid’s hair, “Can I get you anything? Ice chips? A blanket?”

“No. I only need you.” 

“You're sweet,” Mapi chuckled, pressing a kiss to Ingrid’s forehead and reaching behind the bed for the call button. Maya had asked her to press it when Ingrid woke up, the further they got into labor the faster it went. 

She confirmed that Ingrid was now nine centimetres. They were so close.

“Alright you two,” Maya said, “The best thing for you to do now is to relax, your lives are about to change.”

Both women smiled at her as she continued, “Ingrid I want you to alert us if you feel anything different. The moment you feel a different sensation or pressure you call us.”

Then she left the room, leaving Mapi and Ingrid to centre themselves. The couple’s life was about to change forever. 

Ingrid stayed on her side facing Mapi who gave her kisses and ice chips on request. They stayed silent during this time, just basking in each other's company. Mapi kept her hand on Ingrid’s cheek, gently stroking the smooth skin there, their eyes locked on each other. 

“Maria…” Ingrid whimpered, her voice low, “Call for Maya, I think it’s time.”

An hour had passed by this point and Ingrid who had been in and out of sleep for a while woke up to a new feeling, a pressure down low, it was different and was exactly the thing Maya wanted them to call for. 

The midwife strutted in, a wide grin on her face. Ingrid rolled onto her back in preparation for Maya to check her and the results were exactly what all three wanted - Ingrid was ten centimetres dilated. 

It was time.

More nurses filled the room as those in the room prepared for Ingrid to give birth: Maya and Mapi helped Ingrid to place her feet in stirrups, the former then moved to the front of the bed in preparation for delivery whilst Mapi, the latter, got behind Ingrid. She held Ingrid, her front snug against the Norwegian’s front, just as they planned.

The contractions were practically on top of each other as Ingrid began to push. The progress was slow and after a while Ingrid felt like she was burning down there, the epidural had worn off and she was in so much pain.

“I can’t do it anymore,” She cried, well over an hour of actively trying to push their baby girl out, “I’m sorry Maria but I can’t do it.”

Mapi groaned slightly as Ingrid flopped her weight backwards onto her, she couldn’t focus on how she felt though as Ingrid needed her, “That is not true, mi Princesa. You are so strong, look at how far you have come, we’re at the end of the tunnel.”

“I cannot be strong anymore, I can’t do this!”

“Look at me Ingrid,” The Norwegian craned her neck as far as she could, “You have got this. You are strong, you are perfect, you are brave and so close to bringing our baby girl into the world. You just need to fight for a little longer. You’ve got this, Ingrid Syrstad Engen.”

Ingrid nodded weakly, whining as the pressure mounted again. She bore down hard and pushed, focusing on Maya as she counted down the seconds.

Maya looked up at the couple who were both sweaty messes, “Her heads out. A few more rounds of pushes and she’ll be here, I promise.”

Mapi continuously kissed Ingrid’s temple as Maya resumed her sentence, “Mapi you need to support Ingrid on this next countdown, I need you to prop her up. Ingrid, this next part is going to hurt like hell but once the shoulders are out it’ll be smooth sailing alright.”

They both nodded, even as tears cascaded down their faces.

On the next contraction Ingrid cried out in pain as Mapi helped her sit up to get the baby’s shoulders out. She understood now why this was called the ring of fire. Once the shoulders were out Ingrid had some time to catch her breath, they were possibly one push away from meeting their daughter.

Maya, as positive as ever, guided Ingrid through deep breaths as they waited for the next contraction.

Ingrid cried and grunted moments later, the pain was back and it was excruciating. Mapi helped to prop her up as Ingrid began to push for the final time. Maya had started to count down again but Ingrid barely heard her, she was too focussed on meeting her baby and Mapi's hands encircled her own to give her the strength to push once more.

A loud cry broke through Ingrid’s moans, the signal that their baby girl had entered the world.

“She’s here!” Mapi exclaimed, pressing kiss after kiss on Ingrid’s cheek as tears poured down her face.

The Norwegian had also started to sob: she’d done it, their baby was here.

The baby was instantly lifted onto Ingrid’s bare chest allowing the two parents to bond with their child. Ingrid’s eyes were blurred as she hugged their baby close to her chest, her hands were soon covered by Mapi’s who was proud to be able to hold both of her girls in her arms. 

“Hi baby,” Ingrid said softly as she pressed a kiss to the newborn's head, “Hi Astrid.”

They were finally a family of three: Mapi, Ingrid and Astrid. There was no feeling like it.

“I am so so proud of you Ingrid - you are incredible. She is perfect, mi nena Astrid.”

The city of Barcelona was beginning to wake, not for Mapi and Ingrid though, they were happy to stay in their new bubble, away from the chaos, away from the outside noise.

They were officially parents, ready for the next chapter of their lives to begin.

___

masterlist!!

a/n: thank you all so so much for reading and liking this story (especially because i am HORRIFIC at consistent updates)

June 13th 2026, Barcelona, Spain

When Mapi woke up on the morning of her birthday she shouldn’t have been surprised that Ingrid’s side of the bed was cold. Although the Spaniard had made no movement to leave the sanctuary of pillows and blankets Ingrid chose that moment to enter the room, using her bump to balance a tray of breakfast. It was like the Norwegian had sensed she was awake, motherly instincts clearly started before birth. 

“Good morning Ingrid.”

“Good morning birthday girl!” Ingrid teased, a shy smile emerged on Mapi’s face. 

For breakfast Ingrid had made toast, pancakes, a small fruit platter and bacon. She had outdone herself and it indicated to Mapi that Ingrid’s nesting had made its way to the cooking portion of the kitchen. Thank God the football season was over and she could keep an eye on her fiance.

Neither of them had planned anything for the day, maybe a walk around the local market, just something that saw them venture outside for a bit. 

They got dressed before heading out: Ingrid in a tight knee length dress with an unbuttoned top over it (a combo she wore constantly as the temperature rose) and Mapi in white linen shorts and a grey top. The Spaniard also did both of their heads of hair: she kept her simple and down with curls but chose to maneuver Ingrid’s into a plait that cascaded down her back.

Once Mapi and Ingrid reached the market they walked leisurely throughout the aisles of stalls, each held a different identity. The tote bag that was balanced on Mapi’s shoulder soon started to fill up with ingredients for dinner and dessert… Ingrid was convinced that she would make Mapi a birthday cake but the Spaniard knew she didn’t have the energy levels anymore and opted to buy one from one of the bakery stalls. The contents of their bag was not limited to food however as Ingrid purchased a number of moisturizers, an item Mapi was sure they had enough of already. 

The couple returned home soon after, bellies full with a lunch from one of the food stalls, and hands full with bags and half melted ice cream. The sun was out and blazing, reaching a temperature above what Ingrid now tolerated. As soon as they had got through the front door Ingrid raced to change into something lighter, staying in her button up and not even bothering to put shorts on. For the rest of the afternoon, and into early evening, she stayed content on the sofa putting her nesting skills to use in a different area - the TV. Ingrid cleared out their recordings, removing anything Mapi said she hadn’t got around to watching yet (they both knew she never would).

Mapi, on the other hand, changed too. The Spaniard spent the afternoon on the balcony tanning with Bagheera beside. At some point she had fallen asleep because the next thing she knew Ingrid was waking her up by poking a foot at her back, the Norwegian not taking any chances of bending down. 

They made dinner together with the ingredients bought at the market: fish with plenty of roast vegetables and couscous. There was juice as an accompaniment too, freshly squeezed that morning, from the market. The couple ate in silence together and once finished that silence stayed, neither wanted to move with their stomachs full. 

Mapi moved first, she scooted her chair next to Ingrid’s and placed her head on top of Ingrid’s bump, ear down and said, “It’s a shame you didn’t come on my birthday, Nena. That would’ve been the best present ever.”

Ingrid lightly hit the side of Mapi’s head, “No way, you would be even more insufferable if she had arrived today!”

Mapi laughed, the vibration causing the baby to kick her face, “Even more?”

“Yes! Your head is big enough as it is, having a baby on your birthday would only add to your ego.”

“Whatever.”

Ingrid rolled her eyes, “Don’t pout at me, Maria. If baby girl wants to come out she can do so tomorrow. I’m sick of braxton hicks.”

Mapi winced a little then, hoping that Ingrid couldn’t see her face, hoping that her hair covered her. The previous week had seen Ingrid’s first experience of Braxton Hicks and it was a terrifying experience for them both. Yet again Ingrid had been folding baby clothes, the amount gifted to the couple by Alexia, Frido and the rest of the team was never ending, when she felt a tightness along her abdomen. The sensation had lasted long and the Norwegian assumed it was round ligament pain making another appearance and therefore nothing to worry about. Then the pain happened again half an hour later, it was the same as before causing a sprinkle of doubt to enter Ingrid’s brain. She had found Mapi, who had to step out of the shower to dampen Ingrid’s worry, and together the two of them called Irene to ask what labor felt like. The older centre back soothed their worries once she had the information, telling them not to worry and to call Maya if there were any further pains.

Mapi shook her head at the memory and got up from Ingrid and the table to make a start on the dishes. Ingrid got up a few minutes after her, a little out of breath but happy she had been able to get up without asking Mapi for help, and the Norwegian told Mapi once she had finished to go and wait for her on the sofa. She was ready to give Mapi her birthday cake.

Ten minutes later Ingrid emerged from the kitchen, the cake on a plate in her hands and quietly sung her the happy birthday song.

“Happy birthday, elskling.” Ingrid murmured, waiting for Mapi to blow out her candles before giving her a kiss.

“Thank you Ingrid, not just for today, for everything.”

Ingrid smiled shyly, she knew what the underlying meaning of Mapi's words were.

Thank you. For giving me a child. For being the best partner and my favourite person in the world. 

The Norwegian agreed with her… As long as said child arrived in the next three weeks. She did not want to be pregnant much longer.

But of course, Mapi had to jinx her thoughts. 

“You know what I wished for?” Before Ingrid could start speaking Mapi had continued her sentence, “For Nena’s eviction notice to be up. It’s time to come out, baby girl, even if you’re due in July!”

Only one of them could be right, and unfortunately for Ingrid it was her. She wouldn’t know at that moment in time but baby girl was overdue, something the Norwegian was deeply annoyed over. 

_____________

June 19th 2026, Barcelona, Spain

Ingrid grumbled as Mapi made her way from the drivers side to the passenger side of their car, the time had come where it was impossible for Ingrid to get up from anywhere without help, including the car. 

“Maria, I swear to God, this isn’t funny. I have half a mind to get Maya to get this baby out today!” Ingrid uttered, refusing to take Mapi’s hand as they walked towards the doctors office.

It was the day of Ingrid’s final appointment with Maya (so long as she had the baby in the next three weeks) and she was looking forward to it, if a little apprehensive. The Norwegian hoped that Maya would tell them that she had started to dilate, that the baby was finally on her way out.

Unluckily, Ingrid hopes were dashed.

Maya was excited to see them both, calling their names from the waiting room with a big smile, and chatting all the way to the room that housed their appointment. The midwife went through her normal actions: weighing Ingrid, measuring her bump and her blood pressure before rolling out the ultrasound machine.

“Woah!” She said, “That’s a strong girl you’ve got in there.”

Maya was referring to the fact that as she pressed the probe and rolled it across Ingrid’s stomach the baby kicked, clearly unhappy that the space she was in was being further restricted. She continued to hold the probe against Ingrid for a few minutes more to watch the couple, they seemed unaware that the midwife was still there, they were both happy to just watch their daughter on the screen with their hands clasped together.

Eventually Maya stopped the ultrasound but promised to print off some pictures at Mapi’s moan. She gave Ingrid a cloth to wipe the gel off with and told the two women that she would talk them through the signs that Ingrid could be in labor. Maya covered a drop in Ingrid’s bump, the loss of her mucus plug, consistent contractions, or a consistent backache.

There was a lot of information to take in, to the point Mapi wished she had brought a pen (even if she knew Ingrid had absorbed all the information), and Maya drawled on about when to contact the hospital and at what point to do so. They had been told that some people come in directly after their water broke but actually waiting until contractions were five minutes apart was advised.

Mapi and Ingrid left their appointment feeling more settled, their brains filled with more information and a confidence they didn’t have going in. 

Ingrid gripped Mapi’s hand on her bump as they drove away, “I hope Nena wasn’t too annoyed after all that probing during the ultrasound… I’d like her to arrive sooner rather than later.”

“If she’s anything like you, Ingrid, she’ll be early.” Mapi laughed, her gaze catching the empty carseat in the back. The seat looked ready, it had been tested and was safe, Mapi and Ingrid were ready too. All they needed now was a baby. 

“And if she’s anything like you, Maria, she’ll be late!”

_____________

June 27th 2026, Barcelona, Spain

Another week had passed without a baby; another week of frustration for Ingrid who was sick of false labor.

Week 38 had been tough on them.

Ingrid had woken up that morning in pain, with a backache that didn’t seem to subside, even after she’d stood under the shower for 40 minutes and had Mapi massage her back. Then, she’d started feeling Braxton hicks again - only this time they occurred every 25 minutes and didn’t stop for three hours.

That panicked Mapi big time, to the point where she almost called Maya, false contractions weren’t supposed to last but this set lingered too long for her liking. It was troubling for the Spaniard to see Ingrid wince and grip her sides in pain and Mapi dreaded to think what they would both be like when actual labor began.

Mapi didn’t feel prepared at all, she had phoned her mum and told her as much as the false contractions had stopped, but was reassured that as soon as the baby was in their arms all would be well. It felt scary to rely on one moment to take all her troubles away, Mapi was afraid of what it could mean if she didn’t automatically bond with her child, but in due time she would have that moment and would bond with her child. 

It wasn’t until the afternoon that either of them felt comfortable enough to relax but even then Mapi still didn’t want to leave Ingrid. They still had another polaroid to take to signal the end of June and the end of month nine and the food needed was unfortunately one that wasn’t in their fridge.

Instead of going out herself Mapi had paid way over what was needed to have the food delivered by a driver. There was no way she was leaving Ingrid. It didn’t even matter to her that the driver took half an hour to drop off her shopping, a time that was heaps longer than if Mapi had gone out and bought it herself.

For probably the last time whilst pregnant, Ingrid had been placed in front of the mirror with a stick of rhubarb in her hands. Mapi’s app had alerted them to the fact that their child was the same length as a stick of rhubarb, a sight that seemed unbelievable and had Ingrid dreading for when she’d have to push that out. 

Mapi stood behind Ingrid, trying to take the polaroid and kiss Ingrid at the same time. She managed it (even if the first attempt came out blurry which she blushed at) and handed the polaroid for Ingrid to write on. 

Week 38 - Rhubarb, hopefully by the next time we take a picture you’ll be here…

And indeed she was.

----

masterlist!!

birthday post!!

May 7th 2026, Barcelona, Spain

“We might have to ask for tomorrow off too…” Mapi sighed as she looked around what would soon be the nursery.

The day the couple had dedicated to building all the furniture their daughter would require had come and Mapi was overwhelmed at the task she had set herself. The Spaniard wanted no help, especially not from Ingrid who was already doing all the heavy lifting of carrying their baby. 

“I could call in reinforcements if you wanted. I know Esmee is willing to help…” Ingrid teased knowing that Mapi wanted to do it all herself.

“No way!” Mapi cried, “I can do it all myself.”

Ingrid sighed and took one last look around the room before residing in their living room; residing to the copious amount of baby clothes she needed to fold. She was not about to stick around and hear Mapi’s sighs about all she had to do: the dresser, crib, rocking chair and changing table all needed to be built. 

It didn’t take long for the Norwegian to get bored of folding clothes through, there was only so much room on the sofa and without a dresser she had nowhere to put them yet. She also knew that it was likely that she would be taken on shopping trips with various members of the team before they left for their respective holidays in the summer. Ingrid had already been made aware that some of them had decided to not holiday outside of Europe with the hope of getting to see the baby soon after she was born.

Ingrid tried to keep herself busy with other mundane tasks around their apartment: washing the dishes, tidying the bathroom and dusting all the sides before making a start on lunch. There was only so much she could do before having to disturb Mapi, the list of tasks Ingrid could complete was not endless, and Ingrid wanted to make sure her fiance had a break at some point. 

As the time crept towards lunch Ingrid knocked on the nursery door, hoping that Mapi wouldn’t be too engrossed in her work so that she couldn’t hear Ingrid. A few seconds passed before a tired looking Mapi opened the door, her slouched position on the floor told Ingrid that she had been working very hard. Ingrid smirked at the sight and took a minute to look at what Mapi had built: in the few hours that had passed Mapi had made good progress, completing the rocking chair and part of the dresser.

“For you, mi amor.” Mapi said, a tired arm swinging towards the rocking chair in the corner.

Ingrid made her way over to the chair, careful to avoid the pieces spread across the floor, one of Mapi’s hands helping to steady her. With a badly concealed groan, Ingrid lowered herself into the chair.

“Wow,” She breathed, “This is very comfy.”

“I should hope so,” Mapi laughed, “The saleslady said this rocking chair had the most comfortable cushions in the whole shop!”

Ingrid leaned back into the rocking chair, closing her eyes as she moved, “I made us lunch but there is no way I’m going to go and get it. Not right now, I might just stay here all day.”

“Don’t you worry - I’ll go and get it.” Mapi said, joints cracking as she stood, “You sit here and stay comfortable.”

Lunch was a quiet affair, Ingrid’s pasta dish was enjoyed in peace as both players surveyed what Mapi had done, and of course what she still had to do. Ingrid estimated that she wouldn’t be done until late into the night, not with the rest of the dresser, the changing table and the crib still to be built. 

With their plates finished and heads clear Mapi got back to building with Ingrid watching from the rocking chair, eventually falling asleep in it. In an attempt to not wake Ingrid Mapi resumed her work quietly and by the time the sun had set she had built everything but the crib, thinking to herself that that would be an easy task for tomorrow. 

Ingrid had stayed asleep the whole time, not waking even when Mapi got annoyed or pieces of wood and nails rattled on the floor. And as much Mapi hated to do so she knew she needed to wake Ingrid up, it was reaching 9PM and neither of them had had any dinner yet.

Mapi moved carefully as she placed her hands on Ingrid’s bump to not startle the Norwegian out of sleep, that would just be mean. From the position on her knees Mapi took a moment to look at Ingrid; to really look at her. She recognises the darkness under her eyes, despite the pregnancy pillow she used Ingrid still found it difficult to go to sleep and stay asleep… Oftentimes Mapi would have to run her nails down Ingrid’s back or hips, the pain after a day of training intense. 

A new idea formed in Mapi’s brain - she would phone one of their local pizza places for something quick and easy, something that could be reheated the next day. Mapi hoped that her voice would wake Ingrid out of her slumber and the Spaniard was right as Ingrid shuffled in the chair, her eyes still drooping shut as Mapi smiled up at her. 

Mapi continued her hand movements across Ingrid’s stomach, “Time to wake up Princesa, dinner’s on the way.”

Ingrid groaned, wishing to remain asleep. The Norwegian put her hands on top of Mapi’s and squeezed, a sign that she was now awake, even if not coherent. 

“I ordered us some pizza,” Mapi started to say, chuckling as another groan came from Ingrid, “I know you want to go back to sleep but not on an empty stomach. Eat two slices, that’s all I ask.”

Ingrid nodded, her eyes open now.

Twenty minutes later and Mapi had coaxed Ingrid to the living room, a reality show playing in a bid that the drama would entice Ingrid to stay awake for a little longer. The pizza had arrived: one half vegetable and the other a concoction of whatever Ingrid had been craving that week. The food had perked Ingrid up somewhat, the reality show too, but her eyes would open and shut every few minutes. She was losing the battle with consciousness. 

Mapi smiled as she looked at Ingrid beside her, the younger player asleep again. “Ingrid?” She questioned, her voice a whisper. Unsurprised with no response Mapi cleared their plates, put any leftovers in the fridge to be enjoyed tomorrow, turned the TV off and picked Ingrid up bridal style to deposit her in their bed.

Ingrid shuffled on the bed as Mapi changed, her clothing felt sweaty after a day of building furniture. Mapi then (as gently as she could) removed Ingrid’s tracksuit bottoms so she wouldn’t overheat in the night. The Spaniard got into bed beside Ingrid and pressed her forehead into Ingrid’s back, that was about the only contact she would be able to share with Ingrid… The bulk of the Norwegian’s body was molded into her pregnancy pillow and whatever other pillows she would accumulate during the night. That thought made Mapi drift off with a smile on her face - eight weeks to go.

___________

May 16th 2026, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain

Leaving Ingrid, for any length of time, was not easy for Mapi. At thirty-three weeks pregnant she was unable to fly to join the team in the Copa de la Reina final - not like she wanted to fly all that way anyway. Their Nena was growing every week and in turn Ingrid grew every week. The Norwegian had been unable to see her toes or bend down without difficulty for a while, there was a new pain in her body everyday… All in all she was not expected to sit through the flight or the match in discomfort.

Mapi shook her head, needing to think happy thoughts instead of whatever pain their daughter was subjecting to Ingrid’s body now, something that drew a smirk from Alexia who didn’t know about Mapi’s inner turmoil. 

“Something on your mind, Maria?” Alexia teased.

Mapi simply said, “I miss Ingrid.”

Alexia groaned, she shouldn’t have been surprised at that answer, the whole time on the drive to the stadium Mapi had been messaging Ingrid with occasional input from Alexia. 

It was clear to the captain how conflicted Mapi was about playing the final. Whilst there was no need to worry about Ingrid Mapi couldn’t be stopped from doing so and there had been several times in the previous days where she had voiced this, several times where she had to be reminded to concentrate.

But, Alexia also knew that when the match started Mapi would be fine, yes she wouldn’t see Ingrid in the crowd but Mapi found extra strength in herself when playing for both her girls now. Alexia knew she wanted to put in a good performance for them, for Ingrid to be proud of her when she returned home.

________

The match kicked off as a Barcelona ball and Atletico Madrid put pressure on them immediately. As it was a final the Barcelona players knew that their opposition would not roll over as easily as before. 

The Atleti defence started strong, their pressure limiting chances and causing players to hit and head the chances high and wide. This happened in minute eight: Claudia had broken away and made a run down the line, her cross made it to the back post where Salma unfortunately headed the ball over. With over eighty minutes left to play, there was no discontent amongst the team, they would have many more attacks on goal. Ten minutes later, Ona fired wide with Gallardo diving to be sure, the resounding corner being caught by her too.

In minute 23 Esmee passed the ball to the edge of the box where it pinged around, hitting Barcelona and Madrid players alike. After a few seconds of chaos Ewa had the ball at her feet and a quick backheel passed the ball to Claudia whose first touch found the back of the net. She tore away from the crowd, jumping and pumping her arm in the air in celebration. 

Seven minutes later, Barcelona struck again.

A low cross from Vicky curled around the middle of the box, straight to Esmee who was in the thick of the action yet again. She lowered her head and struck the ball down into the bottom corner, Esmee was almost looking at the floor as she connected with the ball and as cheers erupted around her she looked up in shock. The ball had gone in even if she couldn’t see it, prompting the team to gather round with hugs and playful laughter.

Chance after chance came and went for Barcelona, both goals meant that momentum was on their side. Due to this it was obvious that they would strike again and this time it was Salma who grabbed the goal. The ball had gone out for a corner which was expertly passed in by Claudia to the centre of the box. The ball was bundled by Barcelona players, then Atleti players trying to clear it before it found Salma. The young player launched herself to the floor, hitting the ball before the defender and goalkeeper. The ball trickled over the line leaving the score 3-0 at half time.

During the second half Atletico Madrid came out rejuvenated, their pressure and energy the same as how they started the first half. Chances from Ewa, Ona and Alexia all came to nothing before Atleti burst down the pitch in an attack started by Luany. She then passed to Jensen who crossed the ball into a Barca player. The deflection landed at the feet of Vilde Boe Risa who volleyed the ball into the roof of the net, her strike was powerful and there was nothing that Cata could’ve done to save it.

The rest of the second half passed by with little activity, there were several yellow cards dished out to Atleti and many chances for Barcelona but the match ended 3-1.

Another Barcelona win; another Barcelona trophy.

Celebrations had started before the match had ended and when it did the Barcelona substitutes ran onto the pitch, giving hugs and high-fives with their fellow teammates. Handshakes were exchanged with the opposition and soon enough the podium for the trophy lift was up. 

The Barcelona players watched as the Atletico Madrid players received their runners up medals, clapping for each player and smiling at the ones they knew personally in commiseration.  At some point as the Madrid line ended and the Barcelona players lined up to receive their own medals a jersey was slipped into Mapi’s hands.

“It’s Ingrid’s!” Esmee smiled as Mapi opened it up.

The Spaniard smiled gratefully at the member of staff who gifted it to her, the loss of Ingrid’s presence was missed throughout the team even if it was only for a few days. Mapi held it tightly as the line moved, her fingers tracing the letters as she stood waiting for Alexia to lift the trophy - she missed Ingrid so much.

Trophy pictures were taken and drinking and partying took over the changing room. There was one player missing from the celebration, something that Frido had noted. She dragged Alexia away from the noise, away from whatever TikTok Kika and Vicky were making her attempt and to a quieter corner.

“Mapi’s not in here. We should go check on her.” Frido said, running a hand through her knotty ponytail. 

“Knowing her she’ll be stowed away in the bathroom,” Alexia stated, “I hope she’s on the phone to Ingrid… She’s been off all week without her here.”

Frido nodded and the two of them took off to the separate area where the bathrooms were. It was significantly quieter than the main changing area meaning that it would be easier to hear if their friend was in distress. 

Their heads poked through the bathroom door and caught the tail end of the conversation Mapi was having with Ingrid. They could hear laughter from both players and knew that whatever lull Mapi was feeling would disappear once the team returned to Barcelona.

“I promise, Princesa. I’ll find a medal for you and our Nena.”

They couldn’t hear Ingrid’s response but the scoff Alexia let out echoed off the quiet walls. Mapi caught their eyes, signalling that she wouldn’t be long.

The centreback spoke into her phone again, “I miss you okay, and I’ll see you soon. Don’t do anything crazy… I don’t want to come home and find that you’ve reorganised the kitchen again.”

Ingrid must’ve told Mapi she loved her as Mapi said, “I love you too.” And with that, she ended the call.

“She’s reorganised the kitchen?” Frido questioned, amusement in her voice.

Mapi sighed, “I don’t want to talk about it… Ingrid’s nesting and I’m suffering because of it.”

Alexia laughed, “Let us take you shopping! We’ll buy you and Ingrid some more baby items, it could help to give Ingrid something to organise.”

“You two,” Mapi began, wrapping her arms around her friend's shoulders, “Are my saviours. As long as you two are paying we can do whatever you want.”

All three of them laughed then and returned to the joy of the changing room party.

_____________

May 22nd 2026, Barcelona, Spain

Alexia and Frido had stuck to their word, spending the morning with Mapi and Ingrid and making the couple follow behind to whatever shops they wished to look in. Between the four of them there were several bags full of baby clothes, blankets, soft toys and any essentials Mapi and Ingrid felt they needed more of. 

“So…” Alexia smiled as they sat down for lunch, “Just over a month until baby girl’s here. How are you two feeling about it? Do you have a name picked out yet?”

Ingrid groaned, “We have a name for her… One that you will find out once she’s born. Nena is running out of room in here. I’m hoping she’ll be evicted sooner rather than later.”

Mapi chuckled, covering the hand Ingrid had on her bump with her own. “I think we’re both excited and nervous. It’s a big change - for all of us.”

Catching the look the couple exchanged, Frido raised her eyebrow, ready to speak before Ingrid beat her to it.

“We actually had a question for the two of you.” The Norwegian said. “We’d like for you to be our baby’s Godmothers.”

Alexia and Frido gasped as Mapi added, “There isn’t anyone else we would trust with this role. You are both very important to us and will most likely be role models to our daughter.”

The newly promoted Godmothers jumped up to hug their friends, teary eyed and grateful that they had been chosen for this. 

“Of course we will be!” Frido exclaimed, kissing Ingrid’s cheek as Alexia nodded.

“This calls for more shopping!” Alexia said, causing the other three to laugh.

The announcement did lead to more shopping. However, Mapi and Ingrid stuck to browsing and buying the occasional item for themselves. With all the clothes Alexia and Fridolina had bought, Mapi would need to look at building an additional dresser to accommodate them all.

Luckily for Mapi and Ingrid a midwife appointment was scheduled for the early evening, it was the perfect opportunity to steer their friends away from buying a shop's worth of clothing. 

With goodbye hugs given the couple drove to the hospital, instead of the usual route to the doctor’s office, to their next appointment with Maya. Just as she said she would, Maya had scheduled them for a tour of the hospital’s maternity ward to see the sort of space on offer for when Ingrid gave birth. 

But first, she took them through the regular checkup. Ingrid’s blood pressure was measured, her bump size too, as well as the awaited ultrasound. Maya spoke all the way through the check up regarding the baby’s development: at eight months pregnant the baby would start to engage in the pelvis (making it easier for Ingrid to breathe but also reduce her walk to a waddle), cause braxton hicks in preparation for labor, have hardened bones as well as a developed brain and nervous person. 

It was a lot to take in, and the information Maya had given them made the upcoming arrival that little bit more real. There wasn’t time to dwell on Maya’s words though - it was time for the hospital tour.

The ward had lines of pastel blue on the walls, a contrast to the mind numbing white expected, it made the ward feel more homely and happier. There were several methods of security, each described by Maya, that had been implemented to make couples feel safer and ensure no one they didn’t want made it onto the ward.

The first room she showed them contained everything that would be expected: there was a bed, plenty of monitors, a chair for the partner, a separate shower room with a toilet and, of course, a crib that awaited a baby. It was spacious and looked simple, something Maya told Mapi and Ingrid was normal, to allow movement and no hazards. The room could be filled, there were options for birthing balls, stools and even extra seating for additional family members to use. That was something the couple had discussed and relayed to their parents that there would be no pressure for any of them to rush to Barcelona, especially not with the distance between them all. 

The other room Maya gave a tour contained much of the same as the first, the only difference was that there was a birthing pool in the corner. For Ingrid, that had settled in her mind that she would prefer the first option, it was becoming more uncomfortable for her to stay in the bath for an extended period of time. Ingrid heavily disliked the lack of independence getting in and out of the bath gave her and she much preferred to shower, the hot water running down her back was soothing, almost like a massage.

Maya was content with Ingrid’s preference for the first room, telling the couple that many women felt the same way, that despite what they had been told the water did not numb the pain of contractions. Before they left the hospital Mapi and Ingrid filled out a few forms regarding the room they’d like, the number they needed for when the time came to call the hospital on and a number that signalled who they were. 

Maya waved them off with a smile, watching a Mapi clutched the ultrasound in one hand and linked her elbow with Ingrid’s on the other side, she hoped that their next appointment would be the last time she saw them before Ingrid had the baby.

____________

May 31st 2026, Barcelona, Spain

Ingrid sank into her seat with a groan, despite being up in the nicer seats dedicated for players and family, she couldn’t get comfortable. She had never been more sore in her life, not even from the various injuries she had suffered throughout her career. A lot of the time it hurt to walk and Ingrid required foot and ankle massages from Mapi every night - it had gotten to the point of excitement that the season was ending so Ingrid wouldn’t need to drag herself away from their sofa. Mapi had constantly said that Ingrid’s attendance at matches was not required, everyone would understand, this month had been hard on her body.

The final day of official training had been yesterday and no one was happier to be done for the season than Ingrid. The Norwegian had reduced her training regime again, for the previous few weeks the only activities she partook in were stretches in the gym, for only three days a week. The season was ending and there was no reason to push herself when the baby would be here in six weeks. 

In celebration for training ending - and for becoming aunties - many /of them had gifted Mapi and Ingrid even more clothes. They really had nowhere to store anything else and were grateful when Irene had gone against everyone else and stocked the couple up with nappies and wipes, items they knew would quickly become pricey.

For their final game of the season Barcelona were playing Madrid CFF at home. The perfect way to end another season of wins and trophies was in front of their fans, celebrating with them was special.

She caught Mapi and Esmee waving at her during the warm up - neither of them were in the starting lineup, a lot of the usual players weren’t as Barcelona had secured the league title weeks ago. The two players were laughing and relaxed, both clearly in a mood to do something that probably led to Ingrid being annoyed with them or taking care of them later that night. Barcelona were holding their end of season party that night which this year would not take place in a club but rather Alexia’s apartment, similar to their winter party in terms of location and probably drunkenness.

The energy inside the stadium was high and it showed through the players. Chants from the fans urged them on and minutes in Salma was delivering in crosses from the left side. She drilled a shot from the edge of the box across the grass, the ball rebounded off the post and away from Ewa who awaited to pinch the ball in front of goal. 

At minute 15 Salma and her crosses struck gold. The young player lifted the ball into the box and onto the head of Caro who directed the ball down into the back of the net. She had jumped higher than the defender, knocking her over in the process to give Barcelona the lead.

The same thing happened again in minute 26, Caro scoring that is. This time it was a penalty caused by a Madrid CFF player handballing. Caro sunk the ball into the back of the net, once again sending the crowd into cheers, they waved their flags and banged their drums in delight.

Obviously the match wasn’t without its struggles - for both the players on and off the pitch. Barcelona would occasionally give away corners to their opposition which usually amounted to nothing, that didn’t stop the feel of tension from the crowd, everyone hoped for a ton of goals and a clean sheet to end the season. Ingrid had her own distress too… As Maya had mentioned there was an increase in the number of times Ingrid needed to use the bathroom during the game and it got to a point where she spent the whole of half time scrolling her phone from a toilet stall, not wanting to go back to her seat and needing to go back to the bathroom.

The second half started as Ingrid dropped back into her seat, rubbing her lower back to combat the additional pressure she felt there. 

2-0 was a nice score to resume the game at but Ingrid was hungry for more goals, she knew the team would be too. Chance after chance arose for Barcelona as they crept closer to another goal, it was a game where anyone could score, opportunities fell to Ewa, Sydney, Salma. Caro, and even Mapi when she was subbed on at minute 70.

The eventual breakthrough was from Caro again, rounding out her hattrick by dribbling down the wing, cutting inside the box on her right and slotting the ball towards the front post, the opposite way from the goalkeeper's guess. The Norwegian forward was unable to add to her tally of goals after that, she was subbed off for Vicky who only needed 11 minutes before bagging a goal of her own.

Vicky’s goal followed in minute 87. The Spanish player received the ball on the edge of the box, surpassed one, two and then a third player before facing the goalkeeper. Her first shot struck the goalkeeper, rebounding back to Vicky who took the ball onto her left foot and hit it high into the roof of the net. She ran towards the fans, jumping and lifting her arms in a bid for them to chant louder.

The match ended 4-0 to Barcelona, a performance that was the CGH show yet again. Ingrid was overjoyed for her fellow countrywoman, she couldn’t stop smiling as she made her way pitchside. 

Esmee met her down the tunnel, the Dutch player hadn’t been subbed on, and the two of them walked arm in arm onto the pitch. Ingrid shaded her eyes with her hand despite the sunglasses over them, it was a glorious day in Barcelona, a hot one too. The two of them made rounds, hugging each player, laughing and celebrating as the groundsmen built the boards that the team would lift the trophy behind. 

At some point Mapi found Esmee and Ingrid, she smothered the pair’s cheeks in kisses, over the moon that the season was finally over and she could concentrate on other things.

Such as their baby girl.

There were still three weeks until Ingrid was considered properly full term and Mapi hoped the weeks would go by quickly. Mapi loved seeing Ingrid full of life, there was no doubt about that, but the last few months had put incredible strain on her body and as much as Ingrid denied it Mapi knew she was insecure and going stir crazy away from the football pitch. 

The Spaniard mused about this until Alexia lifted the newest trophy in Barcelona’s collection, the action almost snapping her out of her thoughts. 

She stayed close to Ingrid as the team walked around the pitch, waving to the fans in the stand, Ingrid was in the middle with Mapi and Esmee on either side with their elbows around hers. The fans would clap and shout begging for attention from the players, sometimes going so far as to throw their shirts and phones at the players. Although the three of them stayed away from the sideline some fans still threw stuff. One item, Mapi noticed, was of a lion teddy. She laughed as she showed it to the other two, looking into the crowd for its owner as Ingrid demanded. Her eyes locked on a little girl in the first row, her Maria Leon 4 shirt back to front, returning the wave given and gesturing towards the lion as she moved towards the girl.

In a small voice the girl said, “It’s for you and Ingrid. My Mami said that you’re having a baby.”

Mapi smiled and thanked the girl, slightly blushing at the kindness. She looked back at Ingrid and Esmee who were chatting away, at how carefree her fiance looked, their conversations surrounding Ingrid’s uncomfortableness with the public had done wonders.

Soon enough the players had separated into groups, they had all changed and were ready to head to Alexia’s, to end the season with a band at her houseparty. 

However, Mapi and Ingrid had one more stop to make before reuniting with the team at their captain’s apartment. After reversing into a space on the side of the road, Mapi ran into the convenience shop in search of what her phone indicated was the food of the week. Month eight was over, happily so, not long to go now which was exhilarating.

She returned to the car with a honeydew melon in hand, it was heavy in the shop provided bag and Mapi dreaded to think about how much weight Ingrid had been carrying around. She would need to try one of those belly lifting videos off of TikTok, Mapi thought. 

“Get the polaroid camera out!” Mapi exclaimed, the second she had opened the car door.

“Is that what you were doing in there? What did you buy?”

“For week 35, for the end of May, we have ourselves a melon.”

The melon was taken out of the bag by Ingrid, she held it beside her belly with pride as Mapi snapped the latest picture in the growing album of bump photos.

“Only three more polaroids now…” Ingrid mused, the end of her pregnancy in sight.

---

July 11th 2026, Barcelona, Spain

The hours that followed Astrid’s birth were quiet and calm. Both Ingrid and Mapi’s parents had been in and met their new grandchild and all four were absolutely smitten with her. Astrid had been weighed and checked, passing all her newborn tests with flying colours. 

Now, she laid on Mapi’s bare chest in just a nappy for some crucial bonding time. 

“For someone so overdue she’s so small.” Mapi chuckled quietly. 

“She sure didn’t feel small…” Ingrid winced, watching both her girls from her hospital bed, eyes still blinking with sleep. 

Mapi’s eyes lingered on Ingrid for a moment, concerned that she was in unnecessary pain. 

Astrid let out a small cry and both of her mothers locked onto her. She began to root around in search of her food source, “”Hey, mi nena. I can’t offer you what you’re looking for!” Mapi chuckled.

The Spaniard rose slowly from the recliner and settled gently next to Ingrid. She transferred Astrid to her Mamma’s arms with as much care as possible, not wanting to jostle either one of them.

Astrid latched on easily, already a pro, something Ingrid was grateful for. She was also aware of Mapi beside her taking yet another round of pictures to add to the evergrowing collection they had. 

The majority of the pictures were on Mapi’s phone, Ingrid voiced this and asked for her phone to take her own pictures on and to check in with whatever the past day wanted. She’d just spent the previous day in labour, she was in no state to constantly check her phone. 

“Woah,” she said, surprised with the onslaught of notifications once her phone had powered on, “We must be pretty popular…”

Mapi laughed again, “Mine was the same… Although, most of them seem to be from Frido and Alexia.”

“Frido gets suspicious if I don’t answer her within a few hours,” Ingrid nodded, looking down at her newborn, “It’s almost like your Godmothers could sense your arrival nena.”

“They’re pretty good at that - knowing when something’s up with us.”

Ingrid nodded, carefully to keep Astrid attached, “We should call them. Let them know.”

“We can’t just ‘call them’!” Mapi exclaimed as she put her shirt back on, quietening as she realised it wasn’t just the two of them anymore. 

“Well we can’t just invite them here on a whim! What would you say to them anyway? I think we should facetime them, tell them that someone would like to meet them.”

The two players started to agree to a plan, they would message their friends and ask if they were free to facetime. Ingrid asked Frido and Mapi asked Alexia, they were both unsurprised at the almost immediate responses from their friends. 

Ingrid readjusted Astrid on her chest, her chin resting upon the newborn’s head, shushing her as both phones began to ring. They both relaxed back into the bed, a phone in their hand at an angle that would show off Astrid’s head.

Mapi and Ingrid looked at each other one last time before pressing accept to their respective calls.

The faces of Alexia and Frido appeared, both of them looking ready to berate the new mothers on their disappearance until they noticed the tuffs of light brown hair beneath Ingrid’s head.

Frido was the first to find her voice, even if she stuttered, “You had the baby?”

“Yes. About eight hours ago.” Ingrid said.

Frido and Alexia’s eyes widened at the revelation, they grew more wide-eyed as Astrid squawked, disturbed by the vibration of Ingrid’s chest. 

“Our Nena was wondering if her Godmothers would like to come visit her.” Mapi beamed, noting how difficult it was for Ale and Frido to keep themselves quiet. She smiled wider at the thought of the two of them trying to stay relatively silent in the presence of a newborn.

“Of course we would!” Alexia said and then planned to pick Frido up on the way to the hospital. The two of them were so excited.

The drive would take around half an hour which gave Mapi and Ingrid time to dress Astrid into her very first outfit. From one of the couple’s many trips to buy baby clothes they had come across a white onesie littered in mallard ducks, although it was newborn sized it seemed to swallow Astrid. Despite being almost two weeks overdue she was still impossibly small. 

With gentle care and love by the time Astrid was dressed Frido and Alexia had arrived at the hospital. They were waiting at the front of the maternity ward for Mapi who signed the two giddy Godmothers in as welcomed visitors. The three of them approached Ingrid’s room quietly, Mapi knocking twice before pushing the door open.

Alexia and Frido entered first, both awwing at the sight before them. Astrid was lying on Ingrid, her head still just below the Norwegian’s chin, she had one hand beneath her back and the other beneath Astrid’s bottom to keep her steady. They both took a look at Astrid’s face, cooing and kissing Ingrid’s temple or forehead as a show of pride for their friend.

“You guys, oh my goodness!” Frido half-laughed, half-cried, “She is so precious! I am so, so proud of you, Ingrid!” 

One by one they hugged Mapi who was eager for them to wash their hands so that they could hold the baby. Mapi chuckled as Ingrid handed her Astrid, as Alexia and Frido tried (and failed) to sit still on the room’s sofa.

“We have two rules,” The younger Spaniard said, “No kissing the baby and please try not to cry on her! We’ve done that enough already.”

Once their friends nodded, Mapi placed Astrid in Alexia’s arms, she made sure her daughter was properly supported before sitting back on the bed next to Ingrid. The couple smiled at each other as Alexia looked at the ceiling, then at Astrid, then back to the ceiling and so on in an attempt to not shed tears on her.

“I’m sorry but she’s just so perfect!” The captain croaked, sending the rest of the room into quiet laughter. 

Soon enough it was Frido’s turn for a cuddle and just like Alexia she struggled to keep her tears off of the baby. The Swede soaked in the features of Astrid’s face: her light brown hair, the slight blush of her cheeks that the newborn red couldn’t hide, and her lips that were the copy of Mapi’s. 

The room stayed quiet as Frido and Alexia took turns holding Astrid and drinking in her face. This left Mapi and Ingrid to their own whispers and bubble; the two of them were content to watch their friends interact with their newborn but as time ticked on the weight of Ingrid sagged against Mapi, the Norwegian exhausted from what she had endured that morning. Before she succumbed to sleep there was something Ingrid had picked up on - neither Frido or Ale had asked what the baby’s name was, clearly too enamored with her to ask.

Mapi removed herself from the hospital bed to let Ingrid lay down and rest. She took the chair beside the bed, gaining the attention of the two players on the sofa. Finally, looking up from Astrid they noticed how Ingrid was struggling to stay awake and that their visiting time was coming to a close. Frido grumbled as she handed Mapi back her daughter, the new mother watched as the two got together their belongings, looking devastated while doing so. 

As Frido and Ale stood and pouted Mapi couldn’t help but laugh, “Isn’t there something you two are forgetting?”

“No. Unless you are going to let us take the baby home with us.” Alexia sighed.

All three of them turned as Ingrid muttered from her place on the bed.

Mapi was by her side in an instant, “What was that, mi amor?”

Ingrid cleared her throat, “I said they don’t know her name yet.”

“That’s right!” Frido exclaimed, “What is it then? I can’t believe neither of us thought to ask! She’s just so amazing and it must’ve slipped our mind!”

Alexia nodded in agreement and the two of them waited impatiently for the reveal. Mapi took a second to look at Ingrid who was now being lulled to sleep by her hand stroking through Ingrid’s hair before speaking.

“Astrid,” She said, one hand running through Ingrid’s hair and the other still cradling her daughter, “Her name is Astrid Engen Leon.” 

For what seemed like the millionth time that afternoon Alexia and Fridolina awed at their Goddaughter. She was perfect, her name was perfect, and the two of them could not wait to see her grow up. 

“Astrid,” They breathed in sync, “We are so happy to meet you.”